Michelle climbed the stairs to Tony's office. The day had finally come to
an end and she was filled with so many emotions she barely knew how to
think straight. It seemed like days ago that she had plucked the courage
to tell Tony she had feelings for him. So much of what she had done today
seemed out of character for her. Usually quiet and conservative she
couldn't believe she had not only told him but also kissed him. She had
also lied to him about Jack for awhile and then helped Tony drug their
boss. Michelle didn't know whether to feel ashamed of herself or proud.
One thing she did know was that she had fallen so hard for Tony it was hard
to even look at him. When the day began, like any other day, she had
feelings but they were ones she could control. Now after everything they
had been through she felt like she not only wanted him but needed him. As
she climbed the stairs her nerves just about over took her, now that
everything was under control at CTU how would Tony act towards her? Where
would their conversation even start? What if he regretted kissing her?
Tony had the headache from hell. He'd actually arrived at work this morning with it and the day's events had only made it get worse and worse. He also felt scared and lonely. This kiss with Michelle had been the most unbelievable thing he could imagine. He had wondered for so long what it would be like to touch her, hold her and kiss her. All he could think though, was that Michelle had only turned to him today because of everything that had happened. There was no way someone like Michelle could ever want to be with someone like him. Michelle made him feel like he actually counted in this harsh world. He'd never felt that before and Nina had pretty much squashed any confidence he had in himself. He spent his whole time with Nina just wanting her to care for him, love him. He was always 2nd to Jack though and of course now he knew she never even liked him for him, it was all about using him. "I have so much love to give, why doesn't anyone want me" he thought to himself as he started putting on his jacket to head home. His heart hurt as he thought about going home by himself to his empty apartment. It also ached for Michelle, he hated the thought of her going home by herself too. She had been through so much and all he wanted was for her to feel safe and protected. God she was beautiful, she was all he had ever wanted. He wished he was someone else, someone like James or Jack who might have a real shot with a girl like Michelle.
Tony heard someone open his door. He had closed his blinds and shut the door in the hope that everyone would just leave him alone for awhile. He spun around to see Michelle closing the door behind her. She looked so perfect. She completely took his breath away. His stomach turned to knots and his heart began to override any logically thinking he had left. He had to touch her, he had to kiss her – give it a shot anyways, I mean if she rejected him he couldn't feel much worse than he already did now.
"Michelle.....I....you...I...." He couldn't find any words and he was struggling just to breathe.
Michelle looked at the pain in Tony's eyes. She wanted him to know that he could talk to her and she would do everything she could to comfort him. She wanted to be close to him. She wanted to kiss him and have his hands all over her. All she wanted was for him to feel the same way she did.
"Tony....I'm sorry....can....we...you...I" God she couldn't string even a sentence together.
They both stood staring at each other, the sexual tension in the room was so overpowering. Tony reached his arm out to her and as soon as he saw that she was going to come to him, he ran at her grabbing her face with both hands and kissing her. She put her hands on his chest and pushed into him so hard. She opened her mouth and let his tongue enter and begin to explore. She groaned which made the passion rise even more. His hands ran up and down her back and then he placed both hands on her ass and pulled her in even closer to him. He couldn't get enough of her. Michelle felt Tony become hard and so she began to move her hips and body with force so that she was rubbing up against him, letting him know how much he was turning her on.
As Michelle used her body to rub against him, Tony almost lost it. He pulled away from the kiss and put his head into her neck. "Oh God Michelle, Oh God" He groaned even louder. No-one had ever turned him on the way she was now and he was so lost in her, he knew this passion he felt for her was not just about being physical with her, he was falling in love and just needed to be close to her.
They stood swaying together and Tony kissed her neck and between taking huge breaths whispered her name. He turned his head to kiss her on the lips again but a wave of pain shot through his neck all around his head. It made him wince in pain and stop still.
"Tony, what's wrong...did I do something?" Michelle felt sick thinking she might have hurt him. "No, no....it's just this headache I've had – it's kinda bad. Don't worry I'll be alright."
Michelle stood back from Tony and looked him in the eyes. She could see how much he hurt and how much he was trying to pretend like he was ok so that they could continue.
"Come over to the couch Tony, I will give you a massage" Michelle said firmly. Tony was baffled, he had never in his life had a massage from anyone besides his physio. No one had ever wanted to bother with looking after him like that. "Your so sweet Michelle, but you don't have too...I would never expect you...." But Michelle was not taking no for an answer and so she grabbed his hand and lead him to the couch. "Tony, I want too, it's the least I can do – please for once just let someone try and take care of you."
They sat next to each other on the couch and Michelle turned in towards Tony and undid the top 3 buttons of his shirt for better access to his neck. Tony loved how gentle Michelle was with him. Michelle had Tony lie on his stomach and close his eyes. She pulled up a chair at the end of the couch to sit on and began massaging his shoulders and neck. The room was quiet and it was such a beautiful intimate moment. Tony felt better just at her touch and he let himself sink into the couch and take in how good it all felt. His eyes closed. It dawned on him just how tired he actually was from the whole day. Before he knew it, he had drifted off to sleep.
Michelle massaged Tony for 45 minutes, stroking his hair softly when her wrists were tired. She knew he had fallen asleep but wanted to make sure she loosened his back up as much as possible so that hopefully when he woke his headache would be gone. Michelle knew she had some paper work to take care of, and decided she would go and do that and let him sleep. She didn't want to leave work until she knew he had woken up and felt ok. She put a blanket from the cupboard over him to keep him warm, kissed him on the forehead and closed the door behind her on the way out. She went straight to Jacks office and asked him to divert Tony's calls and not let anyone in his office so that he could really get some rest.
Jack smiled at Michelle, he knew how much she cared for Tony and he certainly knew how much Tony cared for her. He and Tony had drunk many beers over the topic of Michelle and how great Tony thought she was. He knew they would make the most perfect couple. He would be so happy to see them together. He told Michelle of course and gave her a huge hug. She had been through so much that day and he was worried about her, she should be getting sleep too. "Why don't you head home and get some rest, I'll tell Tony when he wakes up" he urged Michelle. "Thanks Jack, but I've got work to do and I really want to make sure he is ok before I go home".
Michelle was happy to stay there all night working if she had too, anything would be better than going home by herself. She was too scared from the day's events to be left alone with her own thoughts.
Jack headed to the cafeteria to get some coffee, as he approached he could hear Adam and James discussing Michelle. He stopped in his tracks making sure he was out of sight and listened to what they were saying. He had never liked James, he thought he was so good and only ever looked after himself. It seemed that all the girls in the office thought he was the hottest guy on the planet and James enjoyed playing up to that. He had already been with four girls from the office that Jack knew of. He wasn't even that good of an agent – if he just put half the effort into his work that he put into chasing skirts maybe he'd do alright.
James was bragging to Adam. "After the day Michelle's had, I am sure she will need someone close and that person is going to be me. I mean, I've seen her checking me out and I've just acted cool...you know, keep her hanging...but I am definitely up for taking advantage of her vulnerability tonight...if you know what I mean." He laughed whilst fixing his collar looking in the mirror. Adam was more of a quiet soul, and had a good heart. He cared a hell of a lot more for anyone else in the office than James. He tried to bring James down a notch, "Ummm James, Michelle and Tony kind of have a thing going. I mean everyone has known forever that they care for each other but rumour has it that today they actually kissed. I don't think you should try to get in the middle of that. Don't forget, Tony is your boss." This didn't seem to bother James in the slightest; he moved closer to Adam, looked him directly in the eye and said, "Do you really think Tony is a problem for me? After the shit he put her through today as if she will have anything to do with him. Tony's got a history of being pathetic when it comes to women, I mean surely he should have realised Nina would have never wanted him and now he reckons he has a shot with Michelle, the hottest girl here....he is a small obstacle. Besides he is asleep right now which gives me time to go soothe Michelle and take her home." Adam was shocked at what he was hearing. How could this jerk speak about Tony and Michelle like this? Tony was so good to everyone in this office and had always treated James with so much respect and yet he was willing to just stab him in the back like that. Although a little nervous the guy would deck him one, Adam decided to say his bit anyways. He turned to leave so he was a little closer to the door and then assertively told James "you are one arrogant prick. You don't deserve Michelle and she isn't going anywhere with you. Tony is a real man and knows how to treat people, Michelle knows that and as with everyone here she knows what a dipshit you are. Maybe you need to stop and wonder why it is that you have no friends here!!" With that James scurried out of the cafeteria and back to his work station. He knew he'd pay for that soon, but after today he just didn't really care – this job was really teaching him what was important in life and what wasn't. Sticking up for his friends was easy, he knew they'd do the same for him.
Jack couldn't believe it. "That little punk" he thought to himself. Tony was his best friend and he didn't want James trying to stand in his way at his shot at happiness with Michelle. He knew Michelle would never go for James, but he also knew how upset and vulnerable she was right now and how easy it would be for her to confuse James offering her comfort to taking advantage of her. Jack decided he'd go and wake Tony to let him know what was going on. He headed back up the stairs to Tony's office which was still all closed up and dark. On the way up he turned and looked back down to see James with his arm around Michelle leading her into tech 7. He hurried into Tony and sat beside him quietly saying his name as not to startle him.
Michelle never liked James. Heaps of the girls always went on about how good looking he was but he just wasn't Michelle's type. Besides since she had laid eyes on Tony she hadn't even looked twice at another guy. She took James's arm off her shoulder and asked him what he wanted. "Michelle, I've been watching you today and I know how much of a rough day you have had, we all have. I want you to know that I am here for you, for you know, like support. Don't go home alone tonight, let me take you out for some food and look after you." Michelle was surprised, out of all the girls in the office he had been through did he really think she was going to be another number to add to his list. She wasn't in the mood for trouble so she forced a small smile and said very politely "Thanks James, I appreciate your concern, but I am fine. I was actually sticking around to check on Tony when he wakes up." James closed the door behind her and stepped closer to her forcing her against the wall. He had a scary look in his eye as he asked Michelle why she cared to wait for Tony. "Umm James, Tony and I have been through a lot today and I wanted to make sure he is ok. I really care for him." Michelle felt nervous now and didn't know what to expect from this situation. He was standing so close to her. She looked up to the corner ceiling and noted that they were in direct line with the security camera – surely he wouldn't try anything when he knows that all these rooms are monitored. James put one hand on the wall behind Michelle's shoulder and the other on her cheek. He spoke very calmly, "Tony doesn't want you Michelle. He used you today to get the results he needed. After Nina, do you really think he gives a shit about anyone else in this office? He can't make you happy, but I can, I can show you what it is like to be with a real man." He slid his hand down over her breast and to the buttons of her shirt. Michelle pushed him back but he simply held both of her hands in just one of his and pinned them against the wall. He was far too strong for her. Michelle felt so tired and weak, she couldn't believe this was happening. She tried to reason with him, "James, please don't. Please don't do this to me, I don't want to be with you." James smiled at her and whispered in her ear, "You don't know what you want. Besides do you think Tony's going to want my sloppy seconds after I am done with you? Make this easy on yourself and do what I say." With that he ripped at her shirt and pushed her to the floor. Michelle struggled with every bit of energy she had to fight him off. He started to get rougher the more she resisted and before she knew it he kicked her in her side and slapped her across the face. Michelle scanned the room trying to think of something she could do, she couldn't reach anything and she just couldn't move with all his weight on her. She raised her knee and shoved it as hard as she could into his groin. He fell backwards slightly letting go of her hands, this gave her the opportunity to shift her body weight and kick him again in the same spot as hard as she possibly could. He yelped in pain and doubled over onto the ground. Michelle sprang to her feet and bolted out the door, heading straight back to her desk.
Upstairs Jack had told Tony what he had overhead between Adam and James. Tony was shocked, although it almost didn't surprise him that another one of his workers was so happy to stab him in the back. He had always been good to James, why on earth would he try to step on his territory. He was so pissed off, yet as the minutes passed it was like all of his fears crept back into his mind and he convinced himself that James was right – there was no way he had a chance of getting Michelle now if he had competition. Tony thought back to a few short hours ago when Michelle had massaged him to sleep to get rid of his headache. Those moments they had shared felt so real and so special. Was he just making into something he wanted it to be? Maybe it didn't mean all that to Michelle. Even if she had meant it all, now that she new James wanted her, why the hell would she choose to stay with Tony!?!? He felt sick and overcome with rage. Tony thought back to when he was in the holding cell with Michelle during the day, he had hated himself so much for putting her in that position. He thought how much Nina had betrayed him and how much he had done for her, yet Michelle, the one girl who had done everything for him was the one he let get hurt. How could he have messed things up so bad? He was so angry, angry at Nina, angry at James, angry at Michelle for not knowing how much she meant to him but mostly he was angry at himself. This was never going to work out the way he wanted it too. He pressed his intercom to Michelle. She answered sounding extremely quiet. Almost surprised to hear that he was awake. "She probably knows I know" he thought to himself. He told Michelle to come to his office immediately. "Umm Tony, I'm just taking care of some things....can it wait?" She sounded so different to him, but he just didn't care at this point. He yelled into the speaker "no, it can't wait, I need to see you now!!"
Jack watched his friend pace the room rubbing the side of his face and barely taking a breath. "Tony, calm down, you have no idea what happened. Michelle likes you, she wouldn't have just gone off with James, please wait to hear what she says." Tony wasn't buying it though, "Come off it Jack, you heard her voice, something is up. Why was I so stupid as to think this would ever work out? I don't blame her, I just know I'd treat her better than that guy any day, if only she'd give me half a chance."
Michelle was in pain. Her ribs were killing her and there was no doubt that James had broken one. She was trying to fight the tears but she was just so tired and scared. She wanted to tell Tony what had happened but she felt so ashamed. He had put his hands all over her. She felt so weak, even though she had stopped James how could she have let it even get that far? She kept playing his words over in her head... "Tony doesn't want you" – that just made her feel so sick. Had Tony and James talked about her before? Was James just saying that or was he telling her the truth? What if Tony just thought of her as a fling, not someone he actually cared about? Michelle just didn't know what to do. She couldn't face this day anymore. She needed a doctor, she needed some food and she needed some sleep. Now she had to go up and face Tony, he sounded so mad on the intercom – she knew he had changed his mind about her. Obviously he had woken up with a lot of regret. She couldn't blame him, she was such a mess right now who would want her. She would just go up there and tell him not to worry, he didn't need to explain anything and then she would leave. She was just going to have to try and put aside her fear of what was next and go upstairs and face him. She decided she was going to call her friend Angie and ask her to come and pick her up from work and take her to the doctors. She couldn't drive right now. She had already decided she wasn't going to mention what happened with James to anyone at CTU because it would just all be too much to deal with. Besides she was humiliated enough over all this Tony crap she didn't need another thing to add to the list. She wiped her eyes and walked into Tony's office...
Jack was still stationed in Tony's office. He knew he should leave but he also worried about his friends and didn't want things to get out of hand if they didn't need too. He would leave only if they asked him too. The mood was so different in the office to a few short hours ago when it was filled with so much love and lust. All of those feelings were still there, they had just shifted to hurt. Both Tony and Michelle had completely convinced themselves that the other one would never want them. That the idea that they could be together was too good to be true. Neither one of them could think straight because they were so tired. The entire day's emotions had finally come to a head and both of them just didn't know how to deal with it anymore. Tony looked at Michelle, the lights were dim but he could still make out a bruise on the side of her face. He hadn't noticed it before, must have just been from this morning. She was also leaning to one side, she looked so awkward and uncomfortable. He didn't know where to start so he just blurted out, "So, I know about you and James."
Michelle was confused, what did he know? How could he possibly know? "What do you know Tony?" He looked at her wondering how to respond, yet his brain just wasn't working and things kept flying out of his mouth before he even had a chance to think about them. "I know he wants you, I know he had his arm around you, and I have no doubt you want him too. That's fine Michelle, be with James."
"That's fine?? You want me to be with James? I don't want James. Is it that easy for you Tony, I thought something had happened between us?"
"No, I just know how things are going to work out if he is in the picture."
"So you think you know what I want Tony? Doesn't what I say count? You think you have me so figured out....I thought you would have thought of me a little more highly than to be with you one minute and then with someone else the next. How can you not trust me? Especially after today. If you want out, just say so don't make this about me." "What, you think I don't want you Michelle?"
"I have no idea what I think Tony."
Things were getting heated very fast. It was almost as though they weren't really listening to each other, they were just saying what ever rolled off their tongues. Michelle hit a nerve with Tony today when she made the comment about today. She was talking about the events that lead them to the holding cell earlier and it made him think back to his thoughts about how he had given Nina everything and let Michelle the best thing that had ever happened to him get hurt. His thoughts rolled into one and before he knew it, her name had rolled off his tongue..
"Nina..."
Michelle couldn't believe it. All this was about Nina? Tony was never going to trust her because of Nina. As much as Nina had betrayed Tony and Jack all everyone ever talked about was how in love they both were with her and how smart and sexy she was. How good she was at her job. It was like before she was busted as the mole at CTU she was this perfect woman, one that Michelle would never be able to live up too.
"This is about Nina?? You know what Tony, I can't handle this anymore. I am not Nina, I don't want to be compared to her. Don't you think I know how much you loved her? You too Jack (she shot him a look out the corner of her eye, which made him stand up) Don't you think I know how good she was at everything she did and that you have both got her up on some kind of Pedi stool. It kills me to think that it doesn't matter how much she screwed you both over, it's me that is paying for her mistakes?"
Tony couldn't believe it. He just couldn't believe the words coming out of Michelle's mouth. She had everything so wrong. He hated Nina with everything inside of him and if he compared the two it was only in the context of how much he realised he was lucky to find someone like Michelle after his experience with Nina. How could she think he didn't trust her after everything she had done for him today? He trusted her with his life. Tony was in shock and words failed him, he just stood staring. Jack knew he had to step in...
"Michelle, you have to listen, I know you have heard lots of talk around the office about Nina and what happened but it is only because she had us all so fooled and no one can understand her betrayal. She was good at her job but so what so, is everyone here, including you."
Michelle was confused. Tony still hadn't said anything. If this wasn't about Nina then why had he said her name? If they trusted her then why were they so convinced she had gone off with James?
At that moment with all three of them standing silent so intense, trying to sort through their thoughts to figure out what was going on, Cory the head of security entered with Chappelle.
Jack turned to the door and spoke up quickly, "Guys, we are really in the middle of something, can you please give us a few minutes?"
Chappelle looked at Michelle and studied her for a moment. "Sorry Jack, this can't wait. Michelle I know you know what this is about. Are you ok?"
"Oh my God" thought Michelle, they know what happened with James, they must have seen the video. This was the last thing she could handle now. She couldn't bare the thought of having them tell Jack and Tony. Michelle's body was starting to drain, she just had no energy left. She truly had never felt so hurt, alone and scared. She had to stop this now..
"Chappelle I am fine. Don't worry please. I'd rather we not discuss any of this....please."
"Sorry Michelle, I know you are frightened but I need to have you checked out and we need to talk about what happened. It's ok, we will look after you."
Tony was completely confused, what the hell was going on. He turned to Michelle, "What is he talking about Michelle, what happened?"
"Nothing, just forget it Tony – Chappelle please drop it."
"No", Tony said with anger rising in his voice "nothing is being dropped. Now as director of CTU I demand to know what the hell is going on. Michelle you can tell me or are you going to Ryan? NOW."
Michelle stood silent, tears started streaming down her face. She couldn't hold them back anymore, she couldn't be strong anymore. She wasn't going to say a word, it didn't matter anyway because Chappelle wasted no time...
"Tony, Jack, it seems there was a situation between James and Michelle a short while ago. Cory found on the security tapes from tech 7 James trying to force himself on Michelle." Turning his attention to Michelle he continued, "Michelle we saw everything, we know he hurt you. We are so thankful you got away from him, you did great. He is being charged as we speak and you don't need to be afraid of him anymore, but you need to let us look after you."
Tony filled with rage, "WHAT??? He touched you? He forced himself on you? Where did he hurt you? How the hell could you let that happen?"
Michelle just about fell over in shock. Let him? Her worst fear was true, she had never felt so humiliated in her life. As she began to speak her words were choked with tears...
"Let him? You think I let him Tony? I wasn't strong enough, I tried. I was scared and he was so much stringer than me. I got away as fast as I could......" Tony broke her words, "Michelle, I am sorry, I didn't mean to say that. I know you didn't let him, I am sorry please forget I said that it came out all wrong. It's me I am furious at – I should have protected you, it's my fault."
Tony walked to Michelle with his arms out. He had to hold her. He couldn't believe he had been yelling at her, he barely even knew what they were yelling about and now he finds out this and he just feels so stupid. Tony put a hand on Michelle's shoulder, trying to be gentle but she took a step back almost loosing her balance. It felt like a knife was being driven straight through his heart, he had hurt her so much that now she couldn't even bare for him to touch her.
"Don't Tony, you don't have too. Just walk away from all this. I can't believe how angry you have been with me tonight. I don't want to be the one that upsets you so much. I don't understand the Nina thing, I just wish you knew how much I would never, ever hurt you like that. I've also never looked at another guy since I met you, I couldn't and I wish you understood that my feelings have always been for you and I'd have never given that up for anyone else. I know how much weakness I have shown today and that I must have disappointed you, it hurts to think I have let you down. I'm going home, I just can't be here anymore....I have to go."
Tears streamed down Tony's face. Everyone else in the room stood in shock. No one knew what to say. Tony didn't care to cry in front of everyone, all he cared about was Michelle – more than he possibly could have imagined.
"Michelle stay.....please stay. God Michelle, don't you know how in love with you I am? I don't know where to start but please hear me out, please. I said Nina's name because I was thinking about how much she put me through and how much trouble she caused and how I had always treated her so well. Then I though about how much more I care about you than I ever did her and how much of a better person you are and yet even though you did everything right today because of me you ended up in that cell facing charges of treason. I was thinking how dead inside Nina made me feel but how alive you make me. I didn't mean to compare, but it was only because the situations felt so simular and I learnt so much from you today and I took so much good away and it was all because of you."
Tony's voice was getting more and more desperate. He was basically yelling now. He knew the whole of CTU would be hearing everything he said but he didn't care. The tears kept flowing making it harder and harder for him to see straight, but he kept going...
"Michelle I went so crazy before because I was so afraid of losing you, like I am now. You see when I look at you I see the most amazing woman I have ever met. I can't get my head around the idea that you would actually have feelings back for me. As soon as I heard about James hitting on you I figured I didn't have a hope in hell. It's not that I don't trust you, it's that I would completely understand why you would want him over me, and I wish I could be more for you...
Michelle broke his words..
"Tony, I don't want anyone else but you. Since I met you I haven't been able to look sideways. You are more than I could ever want, you are everything to me. God Tony, I adore you."
"Michelle let me hold you. I am so sorry." Tony began to slowly edge closer to Michelle again. The colour was draining form her face and she looked unsteady on her feet.
"Tony, I am so scared. I didn't want any of this to happen. Even in the middle of the hell that was today, when you kissed me tonight I think I was the happiest girl in the world. Your touch, your arms around me, it felt like there was something so special between us."
Michelle was still inching away from everyone. She had completely let loose on her feelings for Tony and she wanted to be in his arms, but she still felt frightened and scared. He was so angry.
"Michelle, it was something special, more special than anything I have ever felt. Come to me, let me hold you. Why won't you let me hold you?"
"You're still yelling. James was so rough...."
Tony realised his voice was frightening her. She was scared and rightfully so after today. He wanted her to know he would never ever hurt her, that he was going to never let anyone hurt her like that again. He lowered his voice...
"I am sorry I am so flustered. I just want to put you in my arms and hold you tight. I'll be gentle with you baby. Michelle trust me...."
"I am so tired. I feel...I..Tony....I don't feel right."
With that, Michelle passed out and hit the floor.
Tony rushed and scooped Michelle up in his arms. Chappelle through his head out the door and screamed for a medic. Jack dropped down next to Tony and began feeling for a pulse. He found one, a little faint but it was there. He tried to re-assure Tony, "she will be ok, the stress of everything just got to her, help will be here in a minute." Tony sat with Michelle's head in his lap. He stroked her face and whispered her name. He couldn't believe how out of hand the day had gotten. She had been pushed too far, mainly by him. He was going to get her through this and then he was going to make everything up to her. He knew how much love she needed and he had all of that and more to give her.
The medics arrived and took Michelle to the sick bay. After evaluation they allowed Jack and Tony back into the room with her. They told them that she would be fine, she had collapsed from exhaustion. She needed lots of rest, water and some food. She had stirred a little but was in and out of sleep. They also had taken an x-ray of her side and found she had a cracked rib from where James had kicked her. Tony asked if he could stay with her until she woke up. He then asked Jack if he would mind leaving him alone with Michelle for awhile. Jack told Tony he'd be outside with Chappelle if he needed anything and then left the room, leaving Michelle and Tony alone.
Michelle was lying on her left side. Tony crawled up onto the bed and lay behind her. He just stared at her taking in her whole body. He placed his hand on the bottom of her shirt, he wanted to see where she had been kicked. He was personally going to kick James' ass for this. He gently lifted Michelle's top up a little until he could see the whole bruise. He was mortified; it was huge and so black. Tony put his arm around her arms, careful not to lean on her ribs but so that he was still holding her tight. He then began to kiss her neck softly. He then held her close and let her sleep. After awhile Michelle began to stir, she was slowly coming too. Tony checked around to see if there was any water for her when she woke up, there was none so he got off the bed and headed to the sink. When he turned around he noticed her eyes were open.
Michelle saw Tony looking down at her with a small smile on his face. She was so happy to wake with him by her side. Without thinking, Michelle sat up on the bed and threw herself into his arms. "Tony, you're here....please let's not fight again. You mean too much to me."
Tony's heart melted when she threw her arms around him. Things were going to be ok for them . "Michelle, I am so sorry – we will never go through that again, I promise. I want to get you home so you can get some proper rest."
Michelle felt tears well up in her eyes. Nervous about what was next and also starting to really feel the pain in her side. She didn't want to go home by herself, she knew she'd never be able to sleep.
"Sweetie, what are you thinking? What can I do Michelle?"
"Tony I don't won't to be alone tonight, I...."
"Michelle, you're not going to be alone. I am taking you to my house where I am going to hold you in my arms all night long, that's if you want me too..."
"I do - Tony, tell me what you want...."
"I want you Michelle. I want all of you. I want to be your best friend and your lover. I'm in love with you and I want you to be mine." Michelle looked Tony in the eyes. "I am so in love with you Tony, you have my heart. I want you and I need you. I am yours and I want you to be mine." She leaned in and placed her mouth on his. The kiss started slowly, barley touching. He touched her lips with his tongue, letting her know he wanted more. She opened her mouth welcoming his tongue. The passion was unbelievable, both of them moaned, so happy to be back in this position with each other again. Michelle ran her hands through his hair and then pulled him closer with the back of his head. Tony was in heaven, he could do this all night with Michelle. He wanted to take her home now. He pulled back and said "Honey, let's go, it's time to get you out of here and I want you at home where I have you all to myself – no interruptions." He finished with a wink and put his arms around her shoulders.
Together they walked out to the main office of CTU. Everyone was pretty much standing around staring at them. No chance of ever hiding this relationship from the office!! Chappelle approached them, "Michelle, Tony, thank you for everything today. Tony I trust you will be caring for Michelle tonight....I want you both to take the next couple days off. I'll organise for someone to come to your place for a debrief tomorrow. Don't worry about anything else right now, just go and get some rest....we need you guys back here soon!!"
Tony had the headache from hell. He'd actually arrived at work this morning with it and the day's events had only made it get worse and worse. He also felt scared and lonely. This kiss with Michelle had been the most unbelievable thing he could imagine. He had wondered for so long what it would be like to touch her, hold her and kiss her. All he could think though, was that Michelle had only turned to him today because of everything that had happened. There was no way someone like Michelle could ever want to be with someone like him. Michelle made him feel like he actually counted in this harsh world. He'd never felt that before and Nina had pretty much squashed any confidence he had in himself. He spent his whole time with Nina just wanting her to care for him, love him. He was always 2nd to Jack though and of course now he knew she never even liked him for him, it was all about using him. "I have so much love to give, why doesn't anyone want me" he thought to himself as he started putting on his jacket to head home. His heart hurt as he thought about going home by himself to his empty apartment. It also ached for Michelle, he hated the thought of her going home by herself too. She had been through so much and all he wanted was for her to feel safe and protected. God she was beautiful, she was all he had ever wanted. He wished he was someone else, someone like James or Jack who might have a real shot with a girl like Michelle.
Tony heard someone open his door. He had closed his blinds and shut the door in the hope that everyone would just leave him alone for awhile. He spun around to see Michelle closing the door behind her. She looked so perfect. She completely took his breath away. His stomach turned to knots and his heart began to override any logically thinking he had left. He had to touch her, he had to kiss her – give it a shot anyways, I mean if she rejected him he couldn't feel much worse than he already did now.
"Michelle.....I....you...I...." He couldn't find any words and he was struggling just to breathe.
Michelle looked at the pain in Tony's eyes. She wanted him to know that he could talk to her and she would do everything she could to comfort him. She wanted to be close to him. She wanted to kiss him and have his hands all over her. All she wanted was for him to feel the same way she did.
"Tony....I'm sorry....can....we...you...I" God she couldn't string even a sentence together.
They both stood staring at each other, the sexual tension in the room was so overpowering. Tony reached his arm out to her and as soon as he saw that she was going to come to him, he ran at her grabbing her face with both hands and kissing her. She put her hands on his chest and pushed into him so hard. She opened her mouth and let his tongue enter and begin to explore. She groaned which made the passion rise even more. His hands ran up and down her back and then he placed both hands on her ass and pulled her in even closer to him. He couldn't get enough of her. Michelle felt Tony become hard and so she began to move her hips and body with force so that she was rubbing up against him, letting him know how much he was turning her on.
As Michelle used her body to rub against him, Tony almost lost it. He pulled away from the kiss and put his head into her neck. "Oh God Michelle, Oh God" He groaned even louder. No-one had ever turned him on the way she was now and he was so lost in her, he knew this passion he felt for her was not just about being physical with her, he was falling in love and just needed to be close to her.
They stood swaying together and Tony kissed her neck and between taking huge breaths whispered her name. He turned his head to kiss her on the lips again but a wave of pain shot through his neck all around his head. It made him wince in pain and stop still.
"Tony, what's wrong...did I do something?" Michelle felt sick thinking she might have hurt him. "No, no....it's just this headache I've had – it's kinda bad. Don't worry I'll be alright."
Michelle stood back from Tony and looked him in the eyes. She could see how much he hurt and how much he was trying to pretend like he was ok so that they could continue.
"Come over to the couch Tony, I will give you a massage" Michelle said firmly. Tony was baffled, he had never in his life had a massage from anyone besides his physio. No one had ever wanted to bother with looking after him like that. "Your so sweet Michelle, but you don't have too...I would never expect you...." But Michelle was not taking no for an answer and so she grabbed his hand and lead him to the couch. "Tony, I want too, it's the least I can do – please for once just let someone try and take care of you."
They sat next to each other on the couch and Michelle turned in towards Tony and undid the top 3 buttons of his shirt for better access to his neck. Tony loved how gentle Michelle was with him. Michelle had Tony lie on his stomach and close his eyes. She pulled up a chair at the end of the couch to sit on and began massaging his shoulders and neck. The room was quiet and it was such a beautiful intimate moment. Tony felt better just at her touch and he let himself sink into the couch and take in how good it all felt. His eyes closed. It dawned on him just how tired he actually was from the whole day. Before he knew it, he had drifted off to sleep.
Michelle massaged Tony for 45 minutes, stroking his hair softly when her wrists were tired. She knew he had fallen asleep but wanted to make sure she loosened his back up as much as possible so that hopefully when he woke his headache would be gone. Michelle knew she had some paper work to take care of, and decided she would go and do that and let him sleep. She didn't want to leave work until she knew he had woken up and felt ok. She put a blanket from the cupboard over him to keep him warm, kissed him on the forehead and closed the door behind her on the way out. She went straight to Jacks office and asked him to divert Tony's calls and not let anyone in his office so that he could really get some rest.
Jack smiled at Michelle, he knew how much she cared for Tony and he certainly knew how much Tony cared for her. He and Tony had drunk many beers over the topic of Michelle and how great Tony thought she was. He knew they would make the most perfect couple. He would be so happy to see them together. He told Michelle of course and gave her a huge hug. She had been through so much that day and he was worried about her, she should be getting sleep too. "Why don't you head home and get some rest, I'll tell Tony when he wakes up" he urged Michelle. "Thanks Jack, but I've got work to do and I really want to make sure he is ok before I go home".
Michelle was happy to stay there all night working if she had too, anything would be better than going home by herself. She was too scared from the day's events to be left alone with her own thoughts.
Jack headed to the cafeteria to get some coffee, as he approached he could hear Adam and James discussing Michelle. He stopped in his tracks making sure he was out of sight and listened to what they were saying. He had never liked James, he thought he was so good and only ever looked after himself. It seemed that all the girls in the office thought he was the hottest guy on the planet and James enjoyed playing up to that. He had already been with four girls from the office that Jack knew of. He wasn't even that good of an agent – if he just put half the effort into his work that he put into chasing skirts maybe he'd do alright.
James was bragging to Adam. "After the day Michelle's had, I am sure she will need someone close and that person is going to be me. I mean, I've seen her checking me out and I've just acted cool...you know, keep her hanging...but I am definitely up for taking advantage of her vulnerability tonight...if you know what I mean." He laughed whilst fixing his collar looking in the mirror. Adam was more of a quiet soul, and had a good heart. He cared a hell of a lot more for anyone else in the office than James. He tried to bring James down a notch, "Ummm James, Michelle and Tony kind of have a thing going. I mean everyone has known forever that they care for each other but rumour has it that today they actually kissed. I don't think you should try to get in the middle of that. Don't forget, Tony is your boss." This didn't seem to bother James in the slightest; he moved closer to Adam, looked him directly in the eye and said, "Do you really think Tony is a problem for me? After the shit he put her through today as if she will have anything to do with him. Tony's got a history of being pathetic when it comes to women, I mean surely he should have realised Nina would have never wanted him and now he reckons he has a shot with Michelle, the hottest girl here....he is a small obstacle. Besides he is asleep right now which gives me time to go soothe Michelle and take her home." Adam was shocked at what he was hearing. How could this jerk speak about Tony and Michelle like this? Tony was so good to everyone in this office and had always treated James with so much respect and yet he was willing to just stab him in the back like that. Although a little nervous the guy would deck him one, Adam decided to say his bit anyways. He turned to leave so he was a little closer to the door and then assertively told James "you are one arrogant prick. You don't deserve Michelle and she isn't going anywhere with you. Tony is a real man and knows how to treat people, Michelle knows that and as with everyone here she knows what a dipshit you are. Maybe you need to stop and wonder why it is that you have no friends here!!" With that James scurried out of the cafeteria and back to his work station. He knew he'd pay for that soon, but after today he just didn't really care – this job was really teaching him what was important in life and what wasn't. Sticking up for his friends was easy, he knew they'd do the same for him.
Jack couldn't believe it. "That little punk" he thought to himself. Tony was his best friend and he didn't want James trying to stand in his way at his shot at happiness with Michelle. He knew Michelle would never go for James, but he also knew how upset and vulnerable she was right now and how easy it would be for her to confuse James offering her comfort to taking advantage of her. Jack decided he'd go and wake Tony to let him know what was going on. He headed back up the stairs to Tony's office which was still all closed up and dark. On the way up he turned and looked back down to see James with his arm around Michelle leading her into tech 7. He hurried into Tony and sat beside him quietly saying his name as not to startle him.
Michelle never liked James. Heaps of the girls always went on about how good looking he was but he just wasn't Michelle's type. Besides since she had laid eyes on Tony she hadn't even looked twice at another guy. She took James's arm off her shoulder and asked him what he wanted. "Michelle, I've been watching you today and I know how much of a rough day you have had, we all have. I want you to know that I am here for you, for you know, like support. Don't go home alone tonight, let me take you out for some food and look after you." Michelle was surprised, out of all the girls in the office he had been through did he really think she was going to be another number to add to his list. She wasn't in the mood for trouble so she forced a small smile and said very politely "Thanks James, I appreciate your concern, but I am fine. I was actually sticking around to check on Tony when he wakes up." James closed the door behind her and stepped closer to her forcing her against the wall. He had a scary look in his eye as he asked Michelle why she cared to wait for Tony. "Umm James, Tony and I have been through a lot today and I wanted to make sure he is ok. I really care for him." Michelle felt nervous now and didn't know what to expect from this situation. He was standing so close to her. She looked up to the corner ceiling and noted that they were in direct line with the security camera – surely he wouldn't try anything when he knows that all these rooms are monitored. James put one hand on the wall behind Michelle's shoulder and the other on her cheek. He spoke very calmly, "Tony doesn't want you Michelle. He used you today to get the results he needed. After Nina, do you really think he gives a shit about anyone else in this office? He can't make you happy, but I can, I can show you what it is like to be with a real man." He slid his hand down over her breast and to the buttons of her shirt. Michelle pushed him back but he simply held both of her hands in just one of his and pinned them against the wall. He was far too strong for her. Michelle felt so tired and weak, she couldn't believe this was happening. She tried to reason with him, "James, please don't. Please don't do this to me, I don't want to be with you." James smiled at her and whispered in her ear, "You don't know what you want. Besides do you think Tony's going to want my sloppy seconds after I am done with you? Make this easy on yourself and do what I say." With that he ripped at her shirt and pushed her to the floor. Michelle struggled with every bit of energy she had to fight him off. He started to get rougher the more she resisted and before she knew it he kicked her in her side and slapped her across the face. Michelle scanned the room trying to think of something she could do, she couldn't reach anything and she just couldn't move with all his weight on her. She raised her knee and shoved it as hard as she could into his groin. He fell backwards slightly letting go of her hands, this gave her the opportunity to shift her body weight and kick him again in the same spot as hard as she possibly could. He yelped in pain and doubled over onto the ground. Michelle sprang to her feet and bolted out the door, heading straight back to her desk.
Upstairs Jack had told Tony what he had overhead between Adam and James. Tony was shocked, although it almost didn't surprise him that another one of his workers was so happy to stab him in the back. He had always been good to James, why on earth would he try to step on his territory. He was so pissed off, yet as the minutes passed it was like all of his fears crept back into his mind and he convinced himself that James was right – there was no way he had a chance of getting Michelle now if he had competition. Tony thought back to a few short hours ago when Michelle had massaged him to sleep to get rid of his headache. Those moments they had shared felt so real and so special. Was he just making into something he wanted it to be? Maybe it didn't mean all that to Michelle. Even if she had meant it all, now that she new James wanted her, why the hell would she choose to stay with Tony!?!? He felt sick and overcome with rage. Tony thought back to when he was in the holding cell with Michelle during the day, he had hated himself so much for putting her in that position. He thought how much Nina had betrayed him and how much he had done for her, yet Michelle, the one girl who had done everything for him was the one he let get hurt. How could he have messed things up so bad? He was so angry, angry at Nina, angry at James, angry at Michelle for not knowing how much she meant to him but mostly he was angry at himself. This was never going to work out the way he wanted it too. He pressed his intercom to Michelle. She answered sounding extremely quiet. Almost surprised to hear that he was awake. "She probably knows I know" he thought to himself. He told Michelle to come to his office immediately. "Umm Tony, I'm just taking care of some things....can it wait?" She sounded so different to him, but he just didn't care at this point. He yelled into the speaker "no, it can't wait, I need to see you now!!"
Jack watched his friend pace the room rubbing the side of his face and barely taking a breath. "Tony, calm down, you have no idea what happened. Michelle likes you, she wouldn't have just gone off with James, please wait to hear what she says." Tony wasn't buying it though, "Come off it Jack, you heard her voice, something is up. Why was I so stupid as to think this would ever work out? I don't blame her, I just know I'd treat her better than that guy any day, if only she'd give me half a chance."
Michelle was in pain. Her ribs were killing her and there was no doubt that James had broken one. She was trying to fight the tears but she was just so tired and scared. She wanted to tell Tony what had happened but she felt so ashamed. He had put his hands all over her. She felt so weak, even though she had stopped James how could she have let it even get that far? She kept playing his words over in her head... "Tony doesn't want you" – that just made her feel so sick. Had Tony and James talked about her before? Was James just saying that or was he telling her the truth? What if Tony just thought of her as a fling, not someone he actually cared about? Michelle just didn't know what to do. She couldn't face this day anymore. She needed a doctor, she needed some food and she needed some sleep. Now she had to go up and face Tony, he sounded so mad on the intercom – she knew he had changed his mind about her. Obviously he had woken up with a lot of regret. She couldn't blame him, she was such a mess right now who would want her. She would just go up there and tell him not to worry, he didn't need to explain anything and then she would leave. She was just going to have to try and put aside her fear of what was next and go upstairs and face him. She decided she was going to call her friend Angie and ask her to come and pick her up from work and take her to the doctors. She couldn't drive right now. She had already decided she wasn't going to mention what happened with James to anyone at CTU because it would just all be too much to deal with. Besides she was humiliated enough over all this Tony crap she didn't need another thing to add to the list. She wiped her eyes and walked into Tony's office...
Jack was still stationed in Tony's office. He knew he should leave but he also worried about his friends and didn't want things to get out of hand if they didn't need too. He would leave only if they asked him too. The mood was so different in the office to a few short hours ago when it was filled with so much love and lust. All of those feelings were still there, they had just shifted to hurt. Both Tony and Michelle had completely convinced themselves that the other one would never want them. That the idea that they could be together was too good to be true. Neither one of them could think straight because they were so tired. The entire day's emotions had finally come to a head and both of them just didn't know how to deal with it anymore. Tony looked at Michelle, the lights were dim but he could still make out a bruise on the side of her face. He hadn't noticed it before, must have just been from this morning. She was also leaning to one side, she looked so awkward and uncomfortable. He didn't know where to start so he just blurted out, "So, I know about you and James."
Michelle was confused, what did he know? How could he possibly know? "What do you know Tony?" He looked at her wondering how to respond, yet his brain just wasn't working and things kept flying out of his mouth before he even had a chance to think about them. "I know he wants you, I know he had his arm around you, and I have no doubt you want him too. That's fine Michelle, be with James."
"That's fine?? You want me to be with James? I don't want James. Is it that easy for you Tony, I thought something had happened between us?"
"No, I just know how things are going to work out if he is in the picture."
"So you think you know what I want Tony? Doesn't what I say count? You think you have me so figured out....I thought you would have thought of me a little more highly than to be with you one minute and then with someone else the next. How can you not trust me? Especially after today. If you want out, just say so don't make this about me." "What, you think I don't want you Michelle?"
"I have no idea what I think Tony."
Things were getting heated very fast. It was almost as though they weren't really listening to each other, they were just saying what ever rolled off their tongues. Michelle hit a nerve with Tony today when she made the comment about today. She was talking about the events that lead them to the holding cell earlier and it made him think back to his thoughts about how he had given Nina everything and let Michelle the best thing that had ever happened to him get hurt. His thoughts rolled into one and before he knew it, her name had rolled off his tongue..
"Nina..."
Michelle couldn't believe it. All this was about Nina? Tony was never going to trust her because of Nina. As much as Nina had betrayed Tony and Jack all everyone ever talked about was how in love they both were with her and how smart and sexy she was. How good she was at her job. It was like before she was busted as the mole at CTU she was this perfect woman, one that Michelle would never be able to live up too.
"This is about Nina?? You know what Tony, I can't handle this anymore. I am not Nina, I don't want to be compared to her. Don't you think I know how much you loved her? You too Jack (she shot him a look out the corner of her eye, which made him stand up) Don't you think I know how good she was at everything she did and that you have both got her up on some kind of Pedi stool. It kills me to think that it doesn't matter how much she screwed you both over, it's me that is paying for her mistakes?"
Tony couldn't believe it. He just couldn't believe the words coming out of Michelle's mouth. She had everything so wrong. He hated Nina with everything inside of him and if he compared the two it was only in the context of how much he realised he was lucky to find someone like Michelle after his experience with Nina. How could she think he didn't trust her after everything she had done for him today? He trusted her with his life. Tony was in shock and words failed him, he just stood staring. Jack knew he had to step in...
"Michelle, you have to listen, I know you have heard lots of talk around the office about Nina and what happened but it is only because she had us all so fooled and no one can understand her betrayal. She was good at her job but so what so, is everyone here, including you."
Michelle was confused. Tony still hadn't said anything. If this wasn't about Nina then why had he said her name? If they trusted her then why were they so convinced she had gone off with James?
At that moment with all three of them standing silent so intense, trying to sort through their thoughts to figure out what was going on, Cory the head of security entered with Chappelle.
Jack turned to the door and spoke up quickly, "Guys, we are really in the middle of something, can you please give us a few minutes?"
Chappelle looked at Michelle and studied her for a moment. "Sorry Jack, this can't wait. Michelle I know you know what this is about. Are you ok?"
"Oh my God" thought Michelle, they know what happened with James, they must have seen the video. This was the last thing she could handle now. She couldn't bare the thought of having them tell Jack and Tony. Michelle's body was starting to drain, she just had no energy left. She truly had never felt so hurt, alone and scared. She had to stop this now..
"Chappelle I am fine. Don't worry please. I'd rather we not discuss any of this....please."
"Sorry Michelle, I know you are frightened but I need to have you checked out and we need to talk about what happened. It's ok, we will look after you."
Tony was completely confused, what the hell was going on. He turned to Michelle, "What is he talking about Michelle, what happened?"
"Nothing, just forget it Tony – Chappelle please drop it."
"No", Tony said with anger rising in his voice "nothing is being dropped. Now as director of CTU I demand to know what the hell is going on. Michelle you can tell me or are you going to Ryan? NOW."
Michelle stood silent, tears started streaming down her face. She couldn't hold them back anymore, she couldn't be strong anymore. She wasn't going to say a word, it didn't matter anyway because Chappelle wasted no time...
"Tony, Jack, it seems there was a situation between James and Michelle a short while ago. Cory found on the security tapes from tech 7 James trying to force himself on Michelle." Turning his attention to Michelle he continued, "Michelle we saw everything, we know he hurt you. We are so thankful you got away from him, you did great. He is being charged as we speak and you don't need to be afraid of him anymore, but you need to let us look after you."
Tony filled with rage, "WHAT??? He touched you? He forced himself on you? Where did he hurt you? How the hell could you let that happen?"
Michelle just about fell over in shock. Let him? Her worst fear was true, she had never felt so humiliated in her life. As she began to speak her words were choked with tears...
"Let him? You think I let him Tony? I wasn't strong enough, I tried. I was scared and he was so much stringer than me. I got away as fast as I could......" Tony broke her words, "Michelle, I am sorry, I didn't mean to say that. I know you didn't let him, I am sorry please forget I said that it came out all wrong. It's me I am furious at – I should have protected you, it's my fault."
Tony walked to Michelle with his arms out. He had to hold her. He couldn't believe he had been yelling at her, he barely even knew what they were yelling about and now he finds out this and he just feels so stupid. Tony put a hand on Michelle's shoulder, trying to be gentle but she took a step back almost loosing her balance. It felt like a knife was being driven straight through his heart, he had hurt her so much that now she couldn't even bare for him to touch her.
"Don't Tony, you don't have too. Just walk away from all this. I can't believe how angry you have been with me tonight. I don't want to be the one that upsets you so much. I don't understand the Nina thing, I just wish you knew how much I would never, ever hurt you like that. I've also never looked at another guy since I met you, I couldn't and I wish you understood that my feelings have always been for you and I'd have never given that up for anyone else. I know how much weakness I have shown today and that I must have disappointed you, it hurts to think I have let you down. I'm going home, I just can't be here anymore....I have to go."
Tears streamed down Tony's face. Everyone else in the room stood in shock. No one knew what to say. Tony didn't care to cry in front of everyone, all he cared about was Michelle – more than he possibly could have imagined.
"Michelle stay.....please stay. God Michelle, don't you know how in love with you I am? I don't know where to start but please hear me out, please. I said Nina's name because I was thinking about how much she put me through and how much trouble she caused and how I had always treated her so well. Then I though about how much more I care about you than I ever did her and how much of a better person you are and yet even though you did everything right today because of me you ended up in that cell facing charges of treason. I was thinking how dead inside Nina made me feel but how alive you make me. I didn't mean to compare, but it was only because the situations felt so simular and I learnt so much from you today and I took so much good away and it was all because of you."
Tony's voice was getting more and more desperate. He was basically yelling now. He knew the whole of CTU would be hearing everything he said but he didn't care. The tears kept flowing making it harder and harder for him to see straight, but he kept going...
"Michelle I went so crazy before because I was so afraid of losing you, like I am now. You see when I look at you I see the most amazing woman I have ever met. I can't get my head around the idea that you would actually have feelings back for me. As soon as I heard about James hitting on you I figured I didn't have a hope in hell. It's not that I don't trust you, it's that I would completely understand why you would want him over me, and I wish I could be more for you...
Michelle broke his words..
"Tony, I don't want anyone else but you. Since I met you I haven't been able to look sideways. You are more than I could ever want, you are everything to me. God Tony, I adore you."
"Michelle let me hold you. I am so sorry." Tony began to slowly edge closer to Michelle again. The colour was draining form her face and she looked unsteady on her feet.
"Tony, I am so scared. I didn't want any of this to happen. Even in the middle of the hell that was today, when you kissed me tonight I think I was the happiest girl in the world. Your touch, your arms around me, it felt like there was something so special between us."
Michelle was still inching away from everyone. She had completely let loose on her feelings for Tony and she wanted to be in his arms, but she still felt frightened and scared. He was so angry.
"Michelle, it was something special, more special than anything I have ever felt. Come to me, let me hold you. Why won't you let me hold you?"
"You're still yelling. James was so rough...."
Tony realised his voice was frightening her. She was scared and rightfully so after today. He wanted her to know he would never ever hurt her, that he was going to never let anyone hurt her like that again. He lowered his voice...
"I am sorry I am so flustered. I just want to put you in my arms and hold you tight. I'll be gentle with you baby. Michelle trust me...."
"I am so tired. I feel...I..Tony....I don't feel right."
With that, Michelle passed out and hit the floor.
Tony rushed and scooped Michelle up in his arms. Chappelle through his head out the door and screamed for a medic. Jack dropped down next to Tony and began feeling for a pulse. He found one, a little faint but it was there. He tried to re-assure Tony, "she will be ok, the stress of everything just got to her, help will be here in a minute." Tony sat with Michelle's head in his lap. He stroked her face and whispered her name. He couldn't believe how out of hand the day had gotten. She had been pushed too far, mainly by him. He was going to get her through this and then he was going to make everything up to her. He knew how much love she needed and he had all of that and more to give her.
The medics arrived and took Michelle to the sick bay. After evaluation they allowed Jack and Tony back into the room with her. They told them that she would be fine, she had collapsed from exhaustion. She needed lots of rest, water and some food. She had stirred a little but was in and out of sleep. They also had taken an x-ray of her side and found she had a cracked rib from where James had kicked her. Tony asked if he could stay with her until she woke up. He then asked Jack if he would mind leaving him alone with Michelle for awhile. Jack told Tony he'd be outside with Chappelle if he needed anything and then left the room, leaving Michelle and Tony alone.
Michelle was lying on her left side. Tony crawled up onto the bed and lay behind her. He just stared at her taking in her whole body. He placed his hand on the bottom of her shirt, he wanted to see where she had been kicked. He was personally going to kick James' ass for this. He gently lifted Michelle's top up a little until he could see the whole bruise. He was mortified; it was huge and so black. Tony put his arm around her arms, careful not to lean on her ribs but so that he was still holding her tight. He then began to kiss her neck softly. He then held her close and let her sleep. After awhile Michelle began to stir, she was slowly coming too. Tony checked around to see if there was any water for her when she woke up, there was none so he got off the bed and headed to the sink. When he turned around he noticed her eyes were open.
Michelle saw Tony looking down at her with a small smile on his face. She was so happy to wake with him by her side. Without thinking, Michelle sat up on the bed and threw herself into his arms. "Tony, you're here....please let's not fight again. You mean too much to me."
Tony's heart melted when she threw her arms around him. Things were going to be ok for them . "Michelle, I am so sorry – we will never go through that again, I promise. I want to get you home so you can get some proper rest."
Michelle felt tears well up in her eyes. Nervous about what was next and also starting to really feel the pain in her side. She didn't want to go home by herself, she knew she'd never be able to sleep.
"Sweetie, what are you thinking? What can I do Michelle?"
"Tony I don't won't to be alone tonight, I...."
"Michelle, you're not going to be alone. I am taking you to my house where I am going to hold you in my arms all night long, that's if you want me too..."
"I do - Tony, tell me what you want...."
"I want you Michelle. I want all of you. I want to be your best friend and your lover. I'm in love with you and I want you to be mine." Michelle looked Tony in the eyes. "I am so in love with you Tony, you have my heart. I want you and I need you. I am yours and I want you to be mine." She leaned in and placed her mouth on his. The kiss started slowly, barley touching. He touched her lips with his tongue, letting her know he wanted more. She opened her mouth welcoming his tongue. The passion was unbelievable, both of them moaned, so happy to be back in this position with each other again. Michelle ran her hands through his hair and then pulled him closer with the back of his head. Tony was in heaven, he could do this all night with Michelle. He wanted to take her home now. He pulled back and said "Honey, let's go, it's time to get you out of here and I want you at home where I have you all to myself – no interruptions." He finished with a wink and put his arms around her shoulders.
Together they walked out to the main office of CTU. Everyone was pretty much standing around staring at them. No chance of ever hiding this relationship from the office!! Chappelle approached them, "Michelle, Tony, thank you for everything today. Tony I trust you will be caring for Michelle tonight....I want you both to take the next couple days off. I'll organise for someone to come to your place for a debrief tomorrow. Don't worry about anything else right now, just go and get some rest....we need you guys back here soon!!"