"Jesus!" Red stared at the message, his senses reeling. He sat motionless, allowing the emotions to wash over him, unable to do anything else, truth told.
He had felt fear before, the night of Carver's attack. Gut wrenching, heart palpitating fear, but never one so totally paralyzing, so overpowering, so all consuming... that he could not override the factor and continue on with the task at hand.
Visions of the woman's blood stained clothes, her shallow, haunted eyes, blurred to crystal clarity.
"Lock down the hotel!" He barked, his knuckles white from the exertion exuded on the table top he had grasped for, a stay hold of reality.
Even as he said the words, he felt their uselessness, Carver would not be on the premises. The bastard would have made certain of escape before having sent the... or perhaps not.
Hope loomed large in Red's soul. "No one leaves!"
The son of a bitch was just egotistical enough to stick around to watch the terror his actions could produce.
Shoving back his chair with an abrupt rising, Red Reddington focused all his energies on one thing, Elizabeth's survival.
"Now!" his commanding tone conveyed an urgency which transmitted across the suddenly silent area, all eyes having turned to the man's unexplainable behavior.
Christopher was moving before he knew it, issuing similar orders to his Security teams.
Antonio Crocetti arose with regal dignity, his features masked, his body tense, almost coiled, as he watched the younger man's face.
Red bolted, Dembe close behind.
The Triad members left behind exchanged enigmatical glances as they unhurriedly followed suit.
Rushing for the stairwell, Red and Dembe literally ran the couple flights before bursting out onto the main floor of the Casino.
Running through the gaming area, people jumped back out of the way, scattering almost comically, faces registering annoyance or avid interest.
Shoving out the back doors, Red pulled his gun from its holster.
His heart pounded painfully in his chest as he quickly scanned the large pool and deck as Dembe came alongside him, weapon out, searching with the eyes of a trained observer.
He felt his heart stop, a coldness overtaking him and the panic rising the more he scanned the area, for he could not find the woman anywhere.
"Lizzy!" He yelled out over the people milling around. "Lizzy!" He bellowed louder as he moved through the fast parting crowd.
"Dammit, Elizabeth!" his fear turned to terror... had Carver already retrieved his target? "Where the fuck are you!"
"There," Dembe pointed, his calm tone soothing Red's anxiety.
The older man spotted Silas finally, over by the West wall, the guard's weapon at the ready.
Behind Silas' massive frame, Red could just make out the top of a shiny moppet of dark hair. The silver haired guard's beefy arm encircled Elizabeth's waist with no effort on his part... as she was pressed tightly against the shelter of Silas' body.
Not much could be seen of the woman. How Dembe had spotted her, Red did not know and at this moment, he didn't especially care.
Relief washed over the man, the tension in his body lessening by degrees.
Silas had backed Elizabeth into a convenient walled area, limiting access to the woman while simultaneously guiding her to a possible escape route.
Red noted an entry gate far to the pairs right.
Silas always thought two moves ahead in any situation in life. Perhaps it's why he stayed alive in such a perilous career choice.
Whatever. Red was more than grateful for such clear thinking at present.
Seeing Lizzy secured allowed Red to return his attention to the immediate threat. The man scanned the faces of the crowded pool area.
There was a low murmur of confusion sweeping those present. Men with guns drawn often silenced the most boisterous gatherings, or at the least, that was Red's experience on the matter.
Carver could be among those who looked back at him.
Red had noted Francis Holbrook seconds before when the young man had bolted from his longue chair, a Glock swiftly pulled from the folds of a nearby towel.
Lia and Amanda were shuffled more than efficiently into the confines of the bar area, hidden and secure for the moment as Francis took time to survey the commotion taking place.
The young man's alert eyes cautiously swept his surroundings, making contact with the stoic black man.
Dembe stood, a beacon of reason and calm in a chaotic storm.
Francis shifted a questioning glance Red's way.
Red had other priorities however, heading for Silas' position, as he secured his weapon.
There really was no need for the gun as Silas' Security team had appeared miraculously out of nowhere seconds before.
Hotel security seemed to be onboard as well. Christopher was doing his job as Red knew he would and he was grateful.
When he was close enough, the large man moved from Red's determined path, allowing access to Elizabeth.
Any thought vanished as Red's arms engulfed Lizzy's small frame, crushing her to his warmth. The man closed his eyes to the reality of the woman. She was safe. He could breathe again.
"W-what's wrong?" Liz stuttered, feeling the man trembling against her.
The horror of another reality returned.
"Carver." Red's tone conveyed the emotions he was feeling as he turned to the patiently waiting guard. "He's here."
Silas' expression remained passive. If the news alarmed or surprised, he would never reveal as much.
"I heard you coming." Silas motioned a few of his men forward with a nonchalant wave of his hand.
"C-Carver?" Elizabeth's whisper halted all speech, the men glancing her way.
The blue eyes widened, startled, but Red was pleased to see nothing other than that at present.
She could be in shock of course... Red knew the adrenaline he had felt was wearing off. He had time to process, she had not as yet.
Silas returned his attention elsewhere. The sound of lively music on the far side of the pool deck added to the needed diversion he had demanded from his team, leading the befuddled guests away, to a more contained scene.
Hotel Security smiled pleasantly at the gathered guests, arresting any fears, as waiters and bartenders offered up free drinks and food, enticing any undue attention elsewhere for the moment.
Discretely tucking his Glock under folded arms, Francis' expression did not bode well.
"What the hell is going on?" Francis checked on Elizabeth who still huddled in Red's embrace, her eyes darting about the crowd. Sensing something terribly awry, he inched closer to his friend.
"What the fuck, Red?" Mark, usually the consummate gentleman around a lady, forgot his manners. "The Triad thinks something is..." he drifted as he witnessed Elizabeth's face for himself, "this has nothing to do with the business at hand," he lifted concerned eyes, "... does it."
Red shook his head grimly, noting the late arrival of several members of said Triad. All of whom stood patiently, having watched the previous 'show'.
They were reserving judgement which in itself spoke highly of Red Reddington's influence and reputation.
Dembe came alongside Elizbeth, craning his neck to the side, a deep scowl on the remarkably handsome face alerted Red to a problem. Something out of the norm had caught his attention.
Red removed his arm for the large black man was picking at an object below Red's jacket sleeve.
Dembe pulled at the band-aid like material, removing it with one deft flick.
Liz stood still under his administrations wanting desperately to look over her shoulder to see what the hell was going on.
"Raymond..." Dembe held up the patch, showing the ominous 'tag' to his friend and the guard beside him.
Red's tenseness returned two-fold as he too, read the neatly scripted initials.
CRVR
"What the hell is that?" Francis exchanged perplexed looks with Mark Donovan.
"Get her inside, now." Red hissed, ignoring the question and questioner. He ushered Liz along, his steps hurried.
It was difficult to keep abreast of the man for Lizzy but she managed for a certain type of fear fueled her feet.
Francis was not deterred however. He hastened his own pace, coming alongside the entourage which accompanied his friend.
Elizabeth kept shooting frantic looks his way over the shoulders of the much taller Security people.
Francis motioned curtly, once again and several similarly dressed men surrounded a totally disoriented Lia and Amanda who had watched the unfolding drama from afar.
The two women were ushered into line behind the rapidly retreating Red Reddington who had covered the expanse of ground and was already converging on the upcoming entrance doors that loomed ahead.
Francis marched diligently in step with the contingent surrounding his friends, a million questions filling his head.
When he came abreast of Red, he was of a mind to voice a few, "You want to tell me wha–"
"Not now, Francis." it was brusquely advised. Reddington had one objective and one alone. "We need to get to the Villa."
"I want to stay here." Liz felt an inner anger emerging, balking at the overly rushed steps she was being forced to take. "I want to confront the bastard!" she hissed.
Francis was quick to pick up on the slip. "What basta–"
"On our own playing field." Red vetoed such a foolish notion.
Both Liz and Francis knew sound judgement when they heard it, falling silent... almost.
"It feels wrong," Liz protested, but resumed a step as Francis' hand on her back suggested strongly, she should do so, "like I'm running away. I won't do that again, Red!"
Red met the stubborn set of her chin, the mounting fury in her stare.
"Pick your battles." Silas muttered, if only to end the stalemate which had ensued. "Another time, another place without innocents about."
Red suddenly resented the fact Silas always seemed to know how to reach the woman.
The blue eyes swept the guests absently allowing herself to be escorted forward.
Red's palm flattened against the glass of the hotel entrance, shoving through the heavy panels, continuing down the long, plushly carpeted corridor.
Christopher awaited, ushering everyone into a large room at the end of the hall.
A few Triad members discretely gathered inside, all standing about, quietly speaking amongst themselves.
A silence fell upon Reddington's arrival.
Red ignored all else turning to more important matters. "Transportation?" he issued a taut request.
"It will take a second." Chris advised just as tightly. "You want to tell me what the hell is going on?" he threw his arms out wide, openly frustrated. "I can't do my job if I'm left in the dark!"
Red's eyes lifted slowly, a menace inside the crystal grey depths. He knew Christopher was not to blame for any of this, he could sympathize with the man, but right now... Red need to 'vent' and God help any unsuspecting victim who happened to be nearby.
"Hey, man," Christopher defused the situation as professionally as he knew how, "I'm just wanting to help."
Red let it go. Dembe stepped in, offering explanations which would suffice.
Red turned his anger elsewhere. "You saw him," it was surmised, "you must have!"
Liz was startled, unaccustomed to such a tone from the man.
"What did he look like?" the light eyes bore into hers as he curved his fingers cuttingly around Liz's arms. "Brown hair, blonde?" He snapped in rapid succession.
"I–I don't know." She shook in his grasp, wondering at the chill suddenly racking her body. "There were so many people!"
The Triad members milled beside the doorway, disapproving frowns on their eclectic faces as they watched Red manhandling the tiny woman.
"Is there a problem, here?" The leader, Guiren, a distinguished East Asian, stepped forward posing the question on everyone's mind.
"A slight disturbance only..." Mark turned, explaining the situation, as he knew it anyway... filling in the gaps with acceptable lies.
The man listened, shrewdly seeing past Mark's diplomatic efforts, understanding Reddington's fear. He had seen for himself the open affection displayed before this 'slight disturbance' had occurred.
If it had been his lady in danger, Guiren knew he'd over react as Reddington was doing now. Reddington would calm down soon enough and love her as much as he was scaring her. He was just that terrified for her, he couldn't control it yet.
"Think! Who touched you!" Red raised his voice, gripping her tighter. "Focus."
She closed her eyes, swallowing harshly, when Silas spoke. "A man stumbled against her, medium height, bulky, brown hair, he was wearing–"
"Khaki pants, green shirt." Her bottom lip quivered under Red's angered glare. "Like a u–uniform."
"Delivery guy," Chris spoke quickly into the radio, relaying the info onward to his people.
Liz wrapped her arms around her body, shivering more in fear than because of the cold air brushing against her wet suit.
She hated this feeling. She was a damn FBI agent for heavens sake. She just couldn't shake the feeling of dread she felt when that horrible man's name was mentioned.
"What the fuck were you doing!" Red's fury was allowed a brief moment of freedom. "How could you not see him!" he yelled.
Liz blinked back the gathering tears, even more scared than Red. That Carver had gotten that close to her and she hadn't noticed, made her sick. And worse... she felt utterly useless. She had never felt so inadequate in her life.
She was trained to observe. To take in her surroundings. To notice danger around her.
And she had failed, miserably. Her biggest threat in life, not only approached her, but had actually touched her. And she had been wholly unaware.
"He could have taken you away, Elizabeth!" Red snapped angrily. "My God..."
"Reddington..." Antonio's stern tone conciliated the overwrought man. When Crocetti had arrived, Red could not have said.
Red's anxious eyes darted towards the older man, as the full weight of what just happened crashed in on him.
Not only had Carver proved the threat he posed.
Red was berating a visibly unsettled Elizabeth Keen. He had been verbally thrashing an already stricken individual.
Never mind that Lizzy was being stalked and targeted by a psychotic serial killer. Allow Red Reddington to add his own brand of malice to the picture.
The thought sickened the man to the core.
Brushing a hand against his brow, Red was shocked to see it trembling as he grasped the lapels of his jacket to jerk it back into a semblance of order. He adjusted his tone accordingly as the fear he felt for her safety overwhelmed the man.
"He could have hurt you, baby." he whispered brokenly, the anguished eyes sharing that pain willingly with her.
Removing the warmed linen jacket, Red wrapped it around her small frame, gently tugging her into a fevered embrace. Rubbing his hands up and down her back, he warmed her chilled body. Comforting them both.
Guiren's frame relaxed finally. There was no real problem between Reddington and his woman. None that existed between the couple at least. Some outside interference, definitely, was rearing its ugly head.
He knew this man loved this slight slip of a girl. Reddington's voice had cracked slightly when he had called her the endearment. He could work with this man, a man not afraid to show how much he cared for those he loved.
Guiren had been trying to get a reading on Reddington since they had first met. He thought perhaps that he would like Reddington from the way Red interacted with the men at his side. He seemed to genuinely like those he employed, respected them to a fault, and care for their well being.
As he watched Reddington's hand tremble as it pet the woman's small head, as he pulled her even closer to get a handle on his fear and agitation, Guiren knew this... this was honest emotion.
The head of the Eastern Empire of consolidated crime, and the aged, revered Mobster who had proven himself over the years to be a consummate leader of men, watched Red steer the woman to the couch as he hovered over her.
Chris came alongside Red, his radio raised as he diligently listened to his security chief's report. "I'll be right there." he clicked off the communication, seeking out Red, "They have something for me."
Accepting a cashmere wrap from Antonio, Red placed it about Liz's small frame.
"You all right?" Red asked, kneeling before her, lifting her haunted eyes to his steady gaze. She sat silently, but nodded.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you." he clenched his jaw, clearly angry with himself for such a lapse.
"You were scared," She said, her voice steady enough, "rightfully so."
"I wasn't scared," he gently carded his fingers through her damp strands, "I was fucking terrified."
"Something alerted you." she had time to consider a few things. "How did you know he was... here?"
"Silas..." he held his hand out, taking the phone back as it was handed over. He scrolled to the first picture. "I got this one first. I just assumed Silas took it." He showed it to her, remembering how he had smiled, then his expression altered. "Then I got this one."
Liz shivered involuntarily as she perused the photos.
He had been that close? Well, of course he had, he had touched her, pressed something into her skin, something she had not even felt. That monster had toucher her. Why hadn't her flesh not recoiled? Why hadn't she become violently ill? She felt as if she would be now...
"He attached this," Red hesitated before he showed her the caption, "along with it."
Liz tightened her arms about her waist, turning away from the phone and all it represented.
"Lizzy," the man closed the phone, his expression grim, "I don't mean to keep harping, but if there is anything else..." he implored, "anything that might..." he trailed away, seeing the distress apparent on the pretty features.
"I remember someone brushing against me, but..." she kept her tone even, apologizing with her manner, for not remembering more.
It took all she had because images kept resurfacing in her minds eyes, images of that first fateful meeting.
"It happened so fast." How many times had she heard that statement? It had been so frustrating then. She could imagine what Red must be feeling. So close... but so far.
"I dismissed it." she closed her eyes. "It happens all the time," she tried to explain, "a waiter, a busboy..."
"But it wasn't a fucking busboy... or waiter." Red whispered hoarsely, he threw a look at Silas.
"What the hell! I did my job." Silas was a little off-kilter after all, his temper flaring.
"Stop," Liz pleaded, "for God's sake. He's saved my life any number of times and he protected me today... don't... don't do this."
Red felt the rebuke, shifting the focus of his anger. "I know that..." his tone mellowed if only for the woman's sake.
He was pissed at the world today, or at fate... or God. Or all of the above. "And of course, now is not the time."
Francis appeared out of nowhere, a tumbler of scotch in hand. "Settle your nerves?"
He bypassed Red to hand it over, a smile for Lizzy. "Not that you need it!" he held his hands aloft in the universal sign of peace. "Not saying that..."
Liz took the liquor gratefully, sipping the warming serum, feeling it sear her throat.
"I'm going to grab the girls." Francis motioned to the vicinity needed. "If you guys can manage without me?"
Red waved the request aside. "See to them." he asked of Dembe to accompany the young man. "See to their safety, Dembe...please."
The large man accompanied Mark and Francis, all three disappearing out the door in seconds.
"Be careful." Red called out a hasty reminder.
Liz's tense muscles were beginning to relax in spite of her better judgement. "Can we say, incompetent?" she muttered dejectedly. "I can just hear the team now."
"We'll find him, Lizzy." Red sounded more confident than he felt at the moment. He would regain his equilibrium, he realized, it was simply taking more time than usual.
"Is there anything," it was stressed, as the quiet solemn man approached, Guiren was genuinely interested in the reply, "we can do to assist?"
Red stood, offering his hand. "I apologize for leaving the meeting so abruptly."
"It was entirely my fault." Liz hastily explained.
Both men looked down at her position on the couch.
"A slight disturbance only, as I was given to understand." Guiren smiled warmly. "As long as you are unharmed, all is well, yes?"
Red brushed the wet bangs from her forehead. "This is Elizabeth, Guiren." he smiled in affection. "My new reason for being."
Elizabeth's eyes blinked their shock for such an openly stated proclamation. Her mouth fell agape as she instinctively checked the affect the astounding words had on Guiren.
"Truly?" the handsome features were unreadable of course. "I would have not guessed at such a deep... connection."
Red inclined his head, almost nobly, Liz thought.
"Unfortunately, because of this... slight disturbance, I must cut short my intended stay and will be taking my leave." Red silenced the woman's objections with a discrete shake of his head. "You will understand the reasons hopefully but I assure you... another more suitable location will shortly be available for our purposes."
"Of course... her protection is paramount." the man understood.
Antonio Crocetti had crossed the room, politely awaiting his turn to speak. His eyes fell softly on Elizabeth Keen as he cradled her small face tenderly.
"No harm will come to you, gattina." he said, patting her gently. "This I promise you." the man's smoky timbre washed warmly over her.
He turned to Red, "If need be, our business can be conducted by... other means." he waved the issue aside, having consulted his counter point before making the statement.
"Our people are at your disposal, Reddington, which most surely goes without saying." Guiren offered magnanimously.
"Yes, my men will see you safely to your destination and afterward, to the airport when ready." Antonio offered sincerely.
"I see it as a most promising sign, gentlemen." Red was pleasantly surprised, indeed. "That our forces have joined together so quickly and efficiently in a time of such distressed difficulty."
He once again offered the hand of friendship to both individuals. "Thank you for your understanding and support. It is greatly appreciated."
Christopher reentered the room, glancing to the others gathered within. He had ordered several dealers on site, tables had been set up. His special guests were once again on a more even keel, some trying their luck, but the tension had melted away.
"We thought we had him, but false alarm," he relayed the news quickly. "It was a new delivery guy, but he was checked out, besides the guy was like eighteen and scared shitless by all the attention focused on him."
Red hid his disappointment well, offering a smile for Lizzy when she turned devastated eyes his way.
"I've got surveillance pulling the feed." Chris continued with better news, he hoped. "As soon as they get it collected, I will have it delivered to you."
Red nodded his gratitude. Maybe the bastard had overplayed his hand this time. A clear image would be a literal God-send.
Red didn't really hold out much hope however. Carver was no fool.
"The car is waiting." Christopher finished with a wave of his hand.
Liz placed her unfinished drink on a nearby table, clutching his jacket closer about her shoulders as she allowed Red to guide her with a gentle hand. She hesitated in her step, looking back at Guiren and Antonio.
"Again, allow me to apologize for–"
Antonio captured her hand, laying a gallant kiss on her soft skin. "There are other things in this world more important, yes?"
Elizabeth smiled genuinely, grateful for his gracious acceptance for the inconvenience.
"I hope, if you're ever in DC, you'll visit?" she replied hastily to the both men, before stepping impulsively to in turn kiss their cheeks. "You haven't really seen us at our very best, I would love a chance to alter your perception of me."
A soft smile pulled at Red's mouth as he watched Lizzy charm the older man. But then, there was also something charming about Antonio's regard for Elizabeth.
Not a lot of the young up and comers wanted to deal with the old world mobsters because of their traditions or way of doing things, but if anyone asked Red, the young ones were missing out on learning some valuable life lessons.
One of which was playing out, right before his very eyes, and that was how a man should treat a lady.
Liz smiled at the man, wrinkling her nose adorably as Antonio placed another small kiss on her hand before slowly releasing it.
"It would be my pleasure, bella piccolina." the man laughed quietly, gesturing for his men to accompany Reddington and his girl. "Safe travels."
Guiren bowed respectfully, taking her offered hand, before he too lay a small kiss on her fingers.
"Call when you are secure." the older of the two requested of Red, his eyes gentling on Elizabeth.
Nodding once again his gratitude, Red wrapped his arm around Lizzy as he followed Silas out the door. All of them safely ensconced by the protective barrier of a couple dozen armed men.
Reaching the exit, the men surrounding them pushed out the doorway, forming a human wall, blocking sight of their group.
A few steps and safety beckoned; Liz could see a long sleek SUV awaiting.
Stepping out into the hot and arid afternoon conditions, Liz sighed her relief as the warmth seeped into her chilled bones. She startled slightly, instantly on the defensive when Silas reached back quickly, moving her behind his protective bulk as he cautiously approached the vehicle.
Remaining cautious of their surroundings, the guard double checked the identity of the driver on their approach. Upon recognizing the man as one of their own, Silas swiftly hustled Liz inside the car before stepping aside for Red.
After Red shut the door, Liz batted her eyes, shocked and dismayed as men hopped on the sideboards blocking windows and other entry points of possible attack.
She glanced out the front window, watching people pointing at the car, talking rapidly with the people beside them. A few took pictures, others tried to get closer to the vehicle to see maybe what movie star was being transported, only to be moved away by a Triad strong arm or a beefy Italian.
It was surreal as hell. Liz settled slowly, her gaze on the back of the guards wide shoulders and neatly coifed ponytail.
"Go..." Silas muttered to the driver as Dembe settled in place beside Liz.
She looked around in the interior, bewildered and confused, so much had happened so quickly. "Where's Mark and Francis?"
"In the other car behind us. Lia and Amanda are safe." Dembe expertly eased the woman's disquiet.
Liz looked over her shoulder, to see the truth of the words. Mark was saying something to a large man before shutting the door, just seconds before their car too, was given the same treatment.
"Why would they do that?" she asked the why of it all, as the cars started off slowly, moving through the gathering crowds. "They don't even know us and yet, they risk their lives to... they don't realize what he's capable of?"
"I think Antonio was quite taken with you." Red stated what he believed to be a fact, pulling his jacket more securely around her frame.
She gaped as they began rolling forward and the men stayed in place, blocking the hoards of onlookers following and snapping pictures. None of it made sense at the moment.
The man in a crisp cream jacket craned his neck to see around the crowd which blocked his view.
"My God..." his pleasant tone caught the policeman's wayward attention.
The off duty cop was earning a little extra money today. Ok, he was making a lot of extra money today. He turned to the older man, sensing nothing amiss.
He had seen it all a hundred times before. Celebrities and their need for attention. It got old.
"I hope that isn't one of the Kardashians." Carver sipped his colorful alcoholic drink, his manner laid back, more than disinterested.
"Some people just have to be the center of attention. I personally, will never understand such a mentality." he watched valets block oncoming traffic, allowing the large vehicles the right of way.
The police officer was of the same opinion, "Well, people like that," he crooked his head, thinking the gentleman was a very articulate, intelligent type, "they pay my salary so you won't hear too much dissension on my part."
"Understandable." Carver nodded sagely, he pulled at the hem of his 'I Love Vegas' shirt before pushing off the stone pillar he leaned against. "Still, it might prove interesting to be a fly on the proverbial wall in that car... don't you think?" he smile was a pleasant one. "Wonder what goes on in their minds?"
"Probably wondering where to have dinner." the cop laughed. "They are rather superficial most of the time. They don't live in the real world like you and me."
Carver's face took on a whimsical look, "Oh, I don't know. God has a way of jolting each of us into reality from time to time." the cryptic remark left the cop wondering over the profound statement for some few moments. "Perhaps that is all that is needed for people like that... a good jolt." his eyes on the rapidly retreating motorcade.
He held his expression as Reddington's right hand man glanced out the window, scanning the surroundings before inevitably landing on him.
The dark eyes held a moment until one of the Italian men blocked sight of them both and the car picked up speed.
Carver walked back into the lush foliage of the front entrance with a cheerful, "Have a nice day, Officer," he called back over his shoulder, "Nice speaking with you."
The cop stared after the guy, slightly bemused.
During the short drive around the property, the people followed even as Red and their entourage pulled into the private drive. The guards held back the gathering crowds as the gates closed, leaving them secure. The men hopped off, forming a line once again blocking sight of them, which Red was grateful for.
He knew the people at the gate posed no threat, they were just looking for a photo op of the 'celebrity'. But Carver was still out there, and he did pose a threat.
Thankfully, Lizzy was shorter than everyone here and got lost behind the wall they had made as he rushed her into the Villa with the others close behind.
Francis had a few quick quiet words with the girls, gesturing for the women to go play in the pool. They smiled happily, traipsing off through the double doors, followed by an unusual number of security guards which missed their notice completely.
"All right, what the hell was that?" Francis questioned the moment the door closed.
"A past associate has become an... issue." Red intoned smoothly. "We have reason to believe he will try and take revenge on me through Elizabeth."
"I need a name." Francis' mood altered visibly, the young man's tone suddenly cold, almost biting.
Liz looked at him quizzically. "I can take care of myself." she snapped. "I don't want you involved in this, Francis."
Francis shifted his scowl to Red Reddington, "And what do you want?"
Red was grateful for the reinforcement, but he too was given pause for thought.
Was it wise to keep the boy in the dark on this one?
"You're not dealing with him." Liz stepped between the two men. "And you," she pointed an accusing finger at Mark Donovan, "you're still recovering! What were you thinking!"
"Lizzy..." Red had noted the gooseflesh on the lovely skin of her legs, "you should get out of that wet suit." he reminded. "All this can wait."
"I'm fine!" she iterated, wrapping her arms about her shivering body.
Silas rubbed his eyes. Dembe leaned back into a convenient counter, crossing his arms content to wait out the tirade.
Red quirked a brow, it was his turn to sigh heavily. He wrapped his arms about the woman's frame, tugging her tightly to his strength.
Liz was comforted in spite of her mood, instinctively snuggling to his warmth, even as she still glared at the other two antagonists.
"I want you to listen to what I am saying," she tempered her foul mood, her attention for Francis and Mark. "I couldn't stand it if you were hurt because of some misguided loyalty to me."
Both men were touched by the sincerity she exhibited, despite themselves.
Francis tossed his sunglasses to the table. "That little show back at the hotel was more than an old crony looking for revenge."
Mark nodded his agreement. "You were shook, Red." he had noted as much. "Who the hell do we know that could get you in such a state."
"That we couldn't handle." Francis concurred.
Red assessed his choices. "I am in the process of narrowing down that list." he lied proficiently. "I will let you know when it's time, until then, I'm asking for your patience and ask that you trust me to do what's best for all concerned."
Francis shook his head negatively, "That's bullshit."
"I am trying to keep a handle on this, Francis." Red countered. "If you have a name, I know you...you'll take matters into your own hands and start an all out war."
"So what if I do?" was the nonchalant reply. "You know I get the needed results."
"I trust in your capabilities," Red did, "but my only priority is her safety." He nodded to the woman in his arms.
Liz's brows pulled together at the total confidence conveyed in Red's tone. I trust in your capabilities?
She looked at Francis Holbrook in an entirely different light. It was like they were talking in freaking code! And she had no idea what the encryption key was.
"When she is secure... we will revisit this discussion."
"Fair enough." Mark shrugged his concerns aside.
"You're damn right we will." Francis huffed his annoyance.
"Antonio wants to be assured of the little gattina's safety upon arrival in D.C." Silas held the phone away from his ear, shifting annoyed eyes Liz's way, "he's ordered his men to accompany us."
"We're going to need a bigger plane." Mark nodded sagely.
"They have their own transportation, you dolt." Silas practically snapped.
"Gattina?" Liz had wanted to ask the meaning when Antonio had referred to her as such at the hotel but she hadn't wanted to appear gauche.
Red quietly kissed her temple, "It means," he informed her readily, "little kitten."
"Feral cat, more like it." Mark muttered, having seen Liz in a temper a time or two.
Liz offered the man an old fashioned look. "Antonio is a gentleman... you could take a few lessons." she made mention. "Especially you, Francis."
She lifted blue eyes to Red's waiting ones. "I think I should change now."
Red loosened his embrace willingly, allowing her escape.
She shivered as the cold air conditioner added to her discomfort.
"The minute we get back, I want names Red." Francis stressed, attempting to ensure his displeasure on the matter was at least, noted.
Red rolled his neck and shoulders to ease the mounting tension.
This was a damned mess.
He would have to tread lightly to keep tempers in check and hurt feelings to a minimum. The less people that knew he was searching for Carver, the better.
They already had a leak in his organization, how else could Carver have found their location? Silas would already be tracing possible leads for the fucking traitor.
It made Red sick to think someone he trusted could be a Judas goat.
"When do we leave this place." The 'fun' had gone out of the adventure for Francis Holbrook. He had called after Red's retreating figure as the man went off in search of Lizzy.
"Night fall."
"Can't be too fucking soon for me." Francis grumbled moodily, going off himself.
As the door closed behind them, Red stopped Elizabeth in her tracks, an imminent request of importance on his mind now for some few moments.
"I know you're cold..." he muttered tightly, "I need a minute." he exhaled shakily, allowing his pent up emotions a small outlet.
Liz smiled, snuggling into the man. "This is warming me up just fine."
He pulled her tighter into his warmth, calming his still thrumming heart from its intense high.
The day's events had scared the ever living shit out of him.
Relaxing in his hold, Liz's eyes softened as she felt the small tremors traverse Red's large frame. Stroking his back slowly, she eased the man's tension, one breath at a time.
"I don't know what to say to you?" he muttered quietly against her shoulder. "I let that bastard hurt you."
"No," she assured quickly, "he didn't hurt me." she pulled back a little, looking up at Red. "He never will, with you here... Red, are you okay? Really?" she knew this incident had unsettled the man.
"Not really, no." he shook his head. "But I will be. Especially after I get you safely back home."
Red grumbled irritably when the phone rang in his pocket. Liz giggled quietly, in hopes of dispelling his annoyance as he pulled the object free.
"Maybe it's Antonio," he rumbled softly, "checking on his kitten." he lifted teasing eyes.
Liz rolled her eyes, before stretching up to kiss Red's chin as he flipped the phone open.
"Yes." he intoned absently into the phone, his real interest with the woman still.
"I can get her anytime I want." a man's lilting tone came over the line, causing a cold chill to enter Red's mind.
"Carver." Red gritted, tightening his arm around the woman who instinctively stiffened against him, having heard the dreaded name.
"The one and only." the man's laughter seemed as genuine as his delight, sensing the other man's distress even over Red's controlled manner.
"When I find you," Red stated, the tone more than brittle, "I'm going to skin you alive."
"Ahh, taking a page from the Master, are we?" Carver chuckled his amusement. "I should warn you however, as one connoisseur to another, before using the skin, you really should let it bleed for at least a day or two." He explained knowingly. "It's much easier to manage."
"No, no..." Red's voice lowered intently, "I'm having visions of my days in wood shop, with old Mr. Barner." the man warmed to the tale. "That man, made us all nervous as hell. Had severe arthritis, fingers curved inwards..." he stopped for emphasis and effect, "we always expected a finger to go flying when he used the table saw." he reminisced.
"Planning on building a hope chest from my bones?" the man queried lightly.
"No, an ashtray from your skull." Red's tone chilled effectively. "The eye sockets will make perfect pipe holders."
"Now, there's a thought." Carver's throaty chuckle made Red's muscles tense. "I really should plan ahead like that, I'll be looking to retire at some point." the man said conversationally. "I should look into selling goods at a flea market... Craigslist."
"I wouldn't put much thought into it." Red replied coldly. "I don't believe you'll be around that long."
"Oh, I think I will." Carver countered jovially. "Made very evident by the events of the day." it was cheerfully reminded. "I can obviously get within touching distance of your fuck toy with little problem." he explained ever so patiently. "As a matter of fact, I've been within arms reach of her for a few days, now."
Red inwardly seethed, angered with himself for dropping his guard and allowing such a lapse in Lizzy's protection.
Granted, he only had a general description of what this asshole looked like, but he always felt a inner itch when something wasn't right. He should have sensed the danger to Lizzy. Or was he fooling himself...
"But today, the temptation to touch all that pink flesh was just too much." Carver taunted jestingly. "She's going to make quite a nice project to work with," he goaded silkily, "her skin is as smooth as a baby's ass."
Red curved his fingers into that soft flesh, his jaw pulsing as visions of what Carver could do flashed in his minds eye.
"Oh, I can understand your attraction." Carver hummed lecherously, enjoying the exchange immensely. "Besides, there's nothing like fucking a Fed. Is there?" he asked innocently.
Red tightened his hold about Liz's waist before quickly loosening his hold when the woman winced visibly.
"Though, I guess, in your case, she's doing it willingly. Can't say the same for mine." Carver sighed lightly. "The experience might not be the same for you. Pity." the man tsked. "Suffice to say, I can't wait to meet with her in the very near future."
"Oh, please," Red asked of the man, "stop by anytime. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet you." The coldness in the tone surprised even Elizabeth.
Carver laughed quietly, "Be seeing you soon." He ended the call, leaving only silence on Red's end.
Red snapped the phone shut, gritting his teeth as he fought to control his fear and building rage.
"What did he say?" Liz asked quietly, then shivered slightly. "Never mind." she didn't really want to know.
Red shook his head, pushing away the continuing visions of what the man would do to the woman, only to have another take its place.
Carver had hurt her once. It was evident, the threat remained, in spades. The sick bastard approached Lizzy... touched her, so easily.
The fucker could just as easily take her warmth... her life. A life Red desperately needed to preserve, at any cost.
He opened his eyes, looking down into the little face watching him so patiently, and felt a sudden crashing wave of terror he would fail her.
The thought of being without her smile, her soft touch, or the woman breathing softly beside him in bed as he held her...
It made his heart hurt in the most painful of ways. Not since he had lost his family, had he felt such despair or anything so distressing.
Easing his trepidation, the man stepped back, holding Elizabeth's eyes steadily.
"I want you to get dressed," he calmly directed, "and get packed."
"Red," Liz murmured just as sedately, "we can take this opportunity to–"
"No," Red vetoed any such idea, "I want on our own playing field, with people we trust at our back."
"You said Antonio would–"
"He would," Red agreed wholeheartedly, "I am not disregarding his assistance in this matter." he told the truth. "But your guards know you, they have all the needed information." he stressed what he could not vocalize.
Liz nodded her understanding. Antonio and Francis were to remain in the dark about the threat. Why, she had no idea, but Red had his reasoning.
Red glanced at the door when a perfunctory knock interrupted the private moment. "...Yes?"
Dembe and Silas pushed their way inside without preamble, holding a laptop aloft.
"Christopher sent this." Dembe gestured to the laptop.
Tapping the screen, surveillance of the pool came up; more specifically, it showed Elizabeth warding off Francis' attack with a water gun before the young man was unceremoniously pushed into the pool by Silas.
Red's smile fell away as a man came out from the left wearing a green shirt and khaki pants. He headed their way before accidentally tripping into Lizzy. She stumbled forward as the large bulk hit her.
Silas caught her instantly before shoving the man hard and away from her. A few choice words of animosity followed but Carver's hands arose in the universal sign of 'peace'.
Seconds later, Francis ran at Lizzy, wrapping his arms around her before falling back into the watery depths while Silas scowled darkly at the man who dared approach Elizabeth until Carver was out of camera range.
"You saw him." Red raised his eyes, meeting the head guard's squarely, hope shining within.
"Yes," both men confirmed.
Red darted his eyes between Dembe and Silas, the surprise apparent.
"I saw him, outside the hotel, when we were leaving." Dembe relayed. "It wasn't until I saw this, I made the connection."
"I've been replaying it since, getting his face focused more each time." Silas added his own experience.
Dembe tapped the screen, drawing Red's focus.
The scene picked back up as Carver sauntered from the pool area, making certain to play to each and every camera available.
Red now knew what the man looked like with absolute certainty.
To what ends? He wondered as darkly menacing thoughts reared their ugly head.
Carver had walked the area from the pool, to a nearby trash container.
The man, from what Red could surmise, was in his early forties perhaps and quite stocky. The man removed his shirt, a close fitting one beneath.
Carver glanced at the surveillance camera, pulling a knife from within the confines of his pants pocket, opening the object, holding it aloft as if he knew, sooner or later... Red would be watching.
The man slit the center of his palm, wiping the blood on the green shirt before stuffing it into the flap of the waste container.
He looked directly at the camera as if to say, 'There, you have my DNA now, what does it get you?'
Red's mood fell into a dark abyss.
What did it get him? Red's own DNA had been floating out in the cosmos for years now and no one had been able to track him unless he had wanted it.
Carver was one smart, sadistic son-of-a-bitch, Red would give him that.
Accepting the clear and simple challenge Carver was issuing, Red cleared his mind. How would he attack this problem were Lizzy not involved?
He had to think rationally to catch this bastard. But how could he do that, when he was too close to the issue at hand?
He would have to find a way.
There had to be an answer.
"Dembe, send that to Aram, please." he slid the laptop towards the man. "See if he can clear that up, get a more detailed still. We have another shot, as well."
Dembe lifted the small weight, phone to his ear. "You are referencing to where he discards the shirt, of course."
"Yes," Red nodded, turning to Silas. "You, grab that shirt and call Kaplan and set up a meeting."
Both men walked to the doorway, prepared for their assigned tasks.
"We're leaving within in two hours, gentlemen." Red called after them before ushering Elizabeth to prepare.
Red did not feel any real sense of danger but these days he was questioning his inner warning system. He watched Lizzy and Francis speaking animatedly, his innate sense of decorum coming to the fore.
"Allow me to offer more substantial means of my gratitude." Red discreetly pushed a thick envelope into Christopher's hand.
"No, Red. Absolutely not!"
"I want you to have it." Red turned away from his host without a care, walking rapidly after the woman, catching her arm.
"You wait for me." Red directed to a reticent Elizabeth Keen.
"We're just getting–"
"You stay in here." the notion was vetoed.
"Red, he's probably in California by now." she whispered.
"I don't want to find out the hard way." Red grumbled. "Wait." he directed, his tone scolding.
Liz sighed, but nodded her acceptance. She knew the events of the day scared Red and if this little concession would quell his anxiety, she'd go along with it... this time.
But they would have to have a discussion about his over protectiveness soon...very soon.
"We'll be going." Red told the man who had followed along at a more leisurely pace. "Once we're in the air, I'll call."
"I had my men check your plane for any tampering." Chris said, accompanying them to the exit of the Villa. "It was clean."
"Thank you." Red set his hand on the handle, then looked at Liz. "You're sure you got everything?"
"Yes. I double checked." she confirmed, before kissing Chris' cheeks in gratitude for the lovely welcome and accommodations.
Silas took his place in front of Elizabeth. And like earlier, there was a wall of men blocking sight of them as Red quickly ushered Liz to the car. She climbed up in the back seat, shortly followed by Red. The door beside her opened, startling her a little, she hoped she hid it well enough.
Was Carver getting to her as well?
"It's just me." Francis smiled as he settled in beside her. "We have quite the little motorcade." he grinned, pointing to the men breaking formation, heading for other nondescript dark vehicles.
"Go ahead, Dembe." Red said.
As Dembe turned the car into the outer driveway, Red groaned irritably when he found the flock from earlier still haunting the gate, though it had grown some. The guards pushed at them, unblocking the entrance, but the people still clamored to see who was in the car.
"Oh, this is getting ridiculous." Liz voiced her opinion.
Red wasn't certain if she meant the crowd or the commotion with all the guards and security. He had not known how to say 'no' to Antonio Crocetti. Not graciously, at least.
Dembe engaged the door locks before Red could even get the first word out, having anticipated Raymond's thoughts.
Flashes of lights from overzealous photographers brightened the interior as other's rushed towards the vehicle as the car cleared the gates. Sure enough, the sounds of the handles of the doors being pulled at, came in rapid succession as Dembe eased out the driveway. People cupped their hands on the dark glass of the windows, straining to get a look inside.
"What the hell?" Liz giggled her dismay. "This is beyond bizarre."
"Come here, Lizzy." Red wrapped an arm around her shoulder, pulling her closer against him and out of sight of the window until they hit the street.
Their faithful followers ran after the car as they came to a red light. The camera flashes resumed making the woman laugh nervously.
"They're going to be so disappointed when they see the end results." she chuckled as Dembe rolled slowly behind the lead vehicles.
"I don't know..." Francis shrugged, "they may have got a few shots of our resident felon."
"You?" Red's mouth tweaked.
"I meant you." Francis straightened his tie, shrugging slightly. "And okay, maybe I fit the bill to an extent." he preened his hair in a side window.
Laying her head against Red's shoulder, Liz relaxed more fully, ignoring the crowds' repeated tapping on the dark windows and the conversation happening around her.
The light changed and Dembe floored it, having felt Raymond's agitation sucking the air from the car.
Only when they got into a good roll and the security offered to them by Antonio and Guiren surrounded the vehicle, did Red release the breath he'd been holding.
A street down, flashing lights came into view in front of them. Liz tensed as Silas cussed in the front seat.
"Shit," the large guard grumbled, looking over his shoulder.
Red turned, finding three other police cruisers taking position around their car.
"Aw fuck, man." Francis whined, hanging his head dejectedly. "What have I done to deserve this?"
"How much time do you have?" Red asked rhetorically. "Dembe, keep going." he advised tersely.
Liz looked up at him, her eyes wide with trepidation. He rubbed her arm soothingly, softly kissing her temple as they drove.
Liz startled as the sound of a phone blared in the otherwise silent car.
Red pulled it free, flipping it open. "Yes?"
"Is your escort there?" Christopher laughed at his own wit.
Red shook his head, a smile pulling at his lips. "Yes, and you about made poor Francis shit himself." he put the phone on speaker.
Christopher's laughter filled the car, easing Liz's shoulders back down from their tense position. "I told him I'd get him back for scaring poor Rosalie." the man chuckled.
"What did you do?" Liz hissed, embarrassed and didn't know why as yet.
"He blinded my poor housekeeper by walking around naked." Chris snickered. "With a full on woody."
"Hey!" Francis was quick to voice his side of the story. "I was in my damn room!" he defended. "Where else can I walk around naked, except in the privacy of my own room?" he demanded.
"You were not in your room," Chris corrected, "you were at the bar."
"Which is technically attached to my room!"
"There is twenty foot gap from your door to the bar." Chris once again corrected.
Francis shrugged flippantly, pouting out the window.
"Anyway, the very helpful police department here believes they are escorting a celebrity." the man said. "Once at the airport, they will keep a distance, but stay until you are boarded... Antonio insisted."
"Antonio has influence with the Las Vegas police?" Liz was baffled.
"Antonio has influence with everyone." Silas threw a look at his employer. He too, believed this spectacle was overkill.
"Thank you for the escort." Red replied. "And damn you for the visual burned into my mind of naked Francis." he grumbled.
"I have a very nice body, thank you very much." Francis protested. "I don't see what the big deal is... Rosalie acts as though it wasn't a pleasure to see my nakedness."
"Yeah, I heard it was no big deal..." Christopher snorted a retort. "Safe flight, guys." the man signed off.
Francis rolled his eyes, even as he readjusted himself, as though confirming, if anything, that it was indeed a 'big deal'.
Liz smiled, patting the man's leg consolingly as they approached another red light. The lead cop blipped his siren, bypassing the red light and all the others they encountered as they meandered their way through the streets, until reaching the tarmac.
Dembe pulled alongside the plane, lining the back door up with the stairs.
"Get on the plane, Lizzy." Red again directed tersely. "Don't hesitate, don't stop."
She had no intention of arguing. Once they got on the plane, the cops could return to their jobs. She felt horrible, pulling them from their real duties.
Red pushed the door open, taking her hand, ushering her quickly up the steps. The other three quick on their heels.
As the plane was being loaded, one of Antonio's men came to the door, quietly conferring with Red and Dembe. Handing something to Red, the man waited as Red opened the box.
Liz watched the exchange discreetly. Red laughed his delight and the woman's tension lessened.
The handsome Italian grinned, before bouncing down the steps, which were raised a moment later as the plane warmed up its powerful engines.
"What was that about?" she asked as Red took the seat next to her.
"He was told to assure your safety onboard." Red stretched his legs out in front of him, finally relaxing now. "He also was told to deliver this." he smiled, handing her the box. "It's from Antonio."
Her brows crinkled, but she took the offering, opening it expectantly.
She chuckled quietly, pulling the necklace free, holding it up to get a better look at the diamond shaped cat.
"How cute..." she smiled, then looked at Red wincing. "Should I accept it or..."
"Yes, you should accept it." Red confirmed. "No matter who you are, you don't turn down Antonio," he whispered, "besides, he meant it as a compliment." it was explained.
Once they were in the air, drinks and snacks were served before Red settled back beside Lizzy, willing his body to relax. He sat up suddenly, looking around, cursing under his breath.
"What's wrong?" Liz muttered around her cheese puff.
"Where the hell is Mark?"
Francis cackled, slapping his knee in open amusement. "You forgot Mark..."
Red pulled his phone free, hastily dialing Chris. "Do you have Mark?"
"Yeah, he was with Amanda, didn't realize it was that late." Chris shrugged the concern aside. "He's flying out with Antonio."
"Tell the moron to call me later." Red grumbled, closing the phone with a snap, before narrowing his eyes at Francis. "You two..."
"Are going to be the death of you?" Francis finished, snatching Liz's last cheese puff.
"Stop!" she snapped, throwing a grape at the man, nailing him in the forehead with deadly accuracy. "That's not funny!"
"At this stage?" Red disagreed vehemently as he watched the boy ferret around for the wayward fruit before popping it in his mouth. "I would pay someone to put me out of my misery."
Francis' laughter echoed throughout the plane.