The day was a bright and cheerful one with the sun beating down on the tall buildings surrounding Liz.
Red and Francis' afternoon was a blur of meetings. First with Antonio, then Red mentioned something about going down to the docks. The images conjured up all sorts of Noir movies until Dembe added that Red would surely enjoy watching the sailboats and the wind coming off the Potomac.
Feeling silly after that, Liz kissed Red goodbye with a gentle reminder Nora expected them at dinner later.
A few hours later, grinning mischievously, Liz carefully straightened the paperwork in hand, replacing it in a thick folder.
All in all, her afternoon had been just as productive.
As planned, she met with Lia for their fun little shopping excursion.
Upon their return from Vegas, Liz assumed she would never see the effervescent brunette, or even Amanda, again.
Her disappointment was short lived, however, when she learned Lia lived in Virginia and Amanda often visited Antonio.
Since then, they tried to meet regularly for lunches and even shopping.
So concentrated on her career and making a home after she and Tom married... the thought turned her stomach so she forged on. It embarrassed Liz to admit, what girlfriends she had... had fallen away.
When Lia suggested a girls' outing, Liz jumped at the chance... only to realize a short time later, she had been incredibly nervous by the prospect.
Not since her early days in college had Liz taken time to gossip and enjoy a weekly pedicure simply because she could.
Soon enough though, Lia reminded her how uplifting the rejuvenating experience could be. She especially liked their small gathering, preferring it to what she experienced in college.
At first, the overly 'girly' activities had been overwhelming, but she slowly began to find her footing and enjoy the quality time.
Even Red noticed a change in her and took great delight asking about her outings.
Assuming he wished to hear her security detail admirably performed their jobs, Liz related the events of her day to him in a time line like fashion...until the man lifted a stilling hand and clarified his interest.
It was then she realized, Red truly wished to hear how she enjoyed her 'girl time' and not anything concerning the former.
While a larger group of security accompanied them today after the events of the previous evening... the guys as always, remained unobtrusive and forever amusing.
Even Granger lightened up enough to share in their coffee break, though remained acutely alert of their surroundings.
Though still not totally comfortable with Granger, she was grateful for his presence which allowed her own guard time to rest a bit.
Liz eyed her obstinate head guard with vexed affection. When Silas learned of her outing, he stubbornly joined the rag-tag group, taking his rightful place by her side.
She stuck close to the man, taking frequent breaks in stores that allowed Silas to sit and get a breather.
Regretfully, a couple hours into their outing, Lia had been paged to return to work.
Finding herself if better spirits and after completing her purchase for Antonio and Maria's ruby anniversary. And of course, she had not forgotten Red's gift.
Liz intended to see Cooper the next day but took the unexpected opportunity presented and visited the man hoping to enlist his assistance with a matter he would understand wholeheartedly.
After presenting her case, and photo documents... Cooper had more than fulfilled her request.
Once again, happily smoothing a hand over the large envelope on her lap, her smile widened.
Yes, this had been a very productive day indeed.
"You're quite pleased with yourself, aren't you?" Silas asked from the front seat.
His alert eyes swept their surrounding area as Joe steered his way through traffic, dodging the late afternoon rush.
"I am," Liz freely admitted, her expression saying as much. "I think Red will find it clever as well."
"Conniving, you mean." Silas hid his grin from the woman.
She was a little too smug in his opinion. No matter, it only allowed a perfect opportunity to enjoy his favorite activity of late... needling the woman.
"I am merely following the law." Liz corrected his assumption, never mind it was correct.
"You're securing yourself a loophole." Silas countered.
He shrugged after a moment's consideration, her methods gaining his approval. "Red will applaud your efforts, no matter how questionably underhanded they may be."
Liz scoffed quietly. She couldn't believe her guard, of all people, was questioning her morals or lack thereof.
"I don't know what you mean." Liz withheld her smile.
"Yes, I'm sure you have no idea," Silas readjusted in his seat, grimacing, "that little piece of paper essentially gives you permission to kill Tom Keen, with very little repercussion."
"I am only doing what I must," Liz sat upright, her chin lifting, "to ensure the protection of myself and my loved ones."
"Uh huh..." Silas rolled his eyes, "...work on your delivery. It fell a bit flat on that last note."
Chuckling under her breath, she took in the lush landscape as they drove the long stretch of road, nearing the house.
"Was it my tone," she questioned playfully, "or the cliché excuse?"
"Yes," Silas grumbled, "and the cat that ate the canary grin. You should at least sound contrite."
Liz winced sheepishly, "Yeah, I'll have to work on that." she admitted. "Why should I play by the rules... they don't?"
"I find it amusing you believe you'll get the chance to use that permission slip." Silas said. "Red will take that bastard out long before you get–"
"He's my ex-husband." Liz frowned petulantly. "I should get dibs."
"I stood up for your rights," Silas stirred the pot gently, "but every time the subject rears its ugly head, Red takes the blame for Tom being in your life so..." he shrugged, "you're just gonna have to take a back seat on this one, I think."
"You think wrong," Liz crossed her arms tight under her breasts, her frown deepening, her good mood evaporating rapidly, "and so does Red if he thinks he can edge in on my takedown!"
Joe choked on a snorted laugh, "Why do you do this?" he executed a precision turn about the corner. "Stop goading her or Red's gonna kick your ass." he muttered aside to his friend.
"He'll have to stand in line." Silas nudged his chin towards Elizabeth who sat fuming in her seat, mumbling below her breath, too preoccupied to note her guards.
It amused both men how fast Elizabeth would get fired up, especially given the subject.
No matter how many times Red warned Silas not to provoke her, the large guard still made it a part of his daily bucket list.
While Joe knew Silas did it because it amused no end. It also strengthened the woman's resolve. It focused her intent.
Which begged the question... why now?
Liz had a really nice time with Lia. She relaxed and played. She accomplished a goal she set out to do...
So what was Silas's end game?
"I slept with that bastard." she shuddered visibly which caused Joe's mouth to quirk yet again. "I should get to kill him first!" Liz huffed her indignation.
Joe snapped from his thoughts, a visual appearing on the horizon. The man sighed, mentally preparing himself for what was to come.
"Dammit..." Joe grimaced, now understanding Silas' ploy.
Silas quickly silenced any comment with a curt jerk of his hand when sight of the ever present blue car... and its occupant, came into view.
The nerve of that little pissant! To have the gall to reappear after...
David and Justin spread the main gates open waving Joe on in, almost anxiously, Silas mused.
Silas clicked his tongue, "Shouldn't remind Red of your former... association." he kept his expression neutral. "You'll lose the battle for sure then."
"We'll just see about that!" Liz lifted her chin stubbornly.
Joe hopped a little too exuberantly over the raised drive, jostling Liz in the back.
The sound Silas dreaded hearing... followed.
"Wait!" Liz yelled, her body suddenly on high alert.
She pressed her face to the blackout window, her expression one of pure disbelief.
A feminine growl filled the car.
"Wait!" her order was obeyed.
Silas gave Joe an incredulous glare when the man slowed the car.
"That low-life son-of-a-bitch!" Liz was beyond livid, throwing off her seatbelt with a jerky movement.
"Don't even think about–" Silas twisted in the seat, his breath catching for the fact his wound pulled sharply.
"Of all the... audacity!" Liz spat her ire, her hand tightly gripping the leather interior. "To show his despicable face here after what he tried!"
"You even think about stepping one foot outside this car..." Silas tossed his seat belt aside, throwing the door wide. He planted a foot soundly on the paved drive in anticipation, ready should the little heathen bolt.
"Who the hell does he think he is!" Liz wasn't listening, her focus on one thing only. The blue eyes glared at the lone figure ensconced in the blue car across the street. "Sitting there like nothing happened!"
"Are you hearing this?" Silas gestured wildly seeking Joe's half-amused, half-stricken face. "Is it me?"
"You did start it." Joe reminded.
Silas whipped his head about, grimacing for his torn muscles were sore and revolting any sort of movement still.
Liz's mouth tightened, her features seething. She... exited the vehicle.
"Get your ass back in this car!" Silas yelled so effectively Liz stopped for a moment, checking on the guy.
The two pairs of blue eyes clashed for a long moment.
"Don't you even think about it!" Silas gritted his teeth, flashing her a warning.
Liz's temper flared. She turned on her heel, marching obstinately across the sedately shaded street lined so beautifully with maples and oaks which stretched skyward.
"Dammit!" Silas hissed, his head falling back dramatically. "I'm gonna strangle her!"
Joe slid the SUV into park, sighing heavily. "You stay, let us handle her."
Silas hobbled after the woman. "You stay out of this!" he clasped his wound, grunting his pain. "I am more than capable of handling that she-devil."
"Yeah, like I said," Joe followed rapidly, already heading for Liz, "let us get her. She'll take you out."
Liz stalked across the dark pavement, her fists clenched at her sides, her senses focused, her anger high.
Joe groused under his breath, shocked when Silas passed his position. The man's steps were as purposeful as the woman they pursued.
Silas reached, grasping Liz's hand roughly pulling her up short, his expression more controlled, as was his temper.
"You sure you wanna do this?" he asked tightly. He cast a death glare to Tom Keen's car.
"Silas..." Liz glared angrily at her captor, then sighed, relenting a bit. Silas' face had lost its usual healthy glow, the dark tan replaced by a greyish pall.
"I'm not stopping you." Silas corrected her misconception. "I'm only offering my... services."
He allowed her to construe his offer however she wished. Silas could easily do things her way and call the cops, have Tom removed... everyone would get a chuckle.
Or, he could simply walk up and put a bullet in Tom's head, which would greatly amuse himself.
Liz's eyes glittered, her hand squeezing his warmly. "I'm good," she nodded, "give me a minute, okay."
Silas held up a stilling hand. "Think before you speak. Can you do that?"
Liz had reservations, sensing her anger guided her at the moment.
"See what he knows first." Silas said. "Interrogate him. Get him to talk."
Liz calmed some, comprehending all being said.
"He'll try attacking you where you're most vulnerable. So Red is off limits."
Liz nodded her understanding. Just like she wouldn't discuss her private life with a suspect at work, she wouldn't share it with Tom either.
Tom Keen was, and always would be, a stranger. A stranger who had no part in her personal life.
Silas saw the profiler form her game plan. He jerked his chin to indicate his approval, holding her eyes steadily. "...You got this."
The woman's slate-blue eyes hardened, her posture straightening.
Silas was pleased to see the fire in the woman flare incandescently. "Now tell him to get the hell out of here... out of your life."
Without hesitation, Liz continued on her trek. Her steps more determined than before.
"Don't you ever listen to reason?" Joe said, taking his position next to Silas. "You're bleeding... again."
"Give her space." Silas hooked Joe's elbow, pulling him up short.
Joe stopped in place, trusting the head guard's lead.
"What the hell are you doing?" Granger came alongside, jerking his thumb at Elizabeth, his stature tense.
"Give her a minute," Silas directed the on-lookers to various strategic positions, all close enough to react if necessary.
"This is insane." Granger stepped forward, scowling. "Antonio directed me to–"
"I know what Red and Antonio expect." Silas stepped, his eyes darkening. "But I also know what Liz needs. And we're damn well gonna give it to her."
Joe looked between the two, stepping slightly away from the testosterone being hurled around. A clash of wills ensued but Granger scoffed his disgust, staring moodily towards the woman.
"You'll move if and when I say so, not before." Silas snapped, his focus on Liz.
"If she's harmed in any way," Granger had his own priorities, "it's your ass, not mine."
"Elizabeth is a big girl." Silas narrowed his eyes. "She can handle herself."
"Look, man," Joe stepped between the stand-off, "let her confront the fucker..." he played peacemaker, "if she needs us, we're right here."
"She has a game plan," Silas murmured, "now let her play it through."
Granger's jaw pulsed in agitation, his burly arms crossing angrily as he too directed his attention to the unfolding scene. "It's your funeral, not mine."
Liz pounded the window of the car hard, causing her image to distort in the glass.
Tom rolled his eyes towards the sound, his expression one of boredom. He was wondering when Reddington's guards would begin their games for the day.
Tom startled when he found Liz standing not but six inches away.
He bolted upright in the seat, his expression betraying his amazement. He pulled his ear phones free, throwing them aside, his MP3 player falling to the floorboard.
Jerking on the door's handle, Tom pushed it open quickly. Had she finally had enough? What had Reddington done to make her finally break free of her imprisonment?
He popped the locks on the passenger door, hooking a thumb for her to follow. "My God, Liz... it's so good to–"
"Don't you have anything better to do." Liz scowled. "I'm told there's stolen goods to smuggle, dirty politicians to bump off... candy to take from children!"
"I can't believe you're... here." he couldn't, his eyes drinking in the sight of her.
"I can't believe I'm giving you one last chance to leave," she said evenly, "take it or leave it."
Tom paused, evaluating his next move, sensing her mood finally. "Just give me a chance to explain." he said. "If you will listen, Liz... and really hear the words."
"I don't care to hear anything you have to say." Liz replied.
Tom softened his expression, falling back on a tactic that never failed when it came to Liz. She had always been gullible, easy to sway.
He stepped, lowering his tone. "Tell me you don't miss me." his eyes searched her face. "What we had."
Liz retreated from his touch, grimacing. "Okay...I don't miss you! One freaking iota!" she was aghast he would even ask. "I especially don't miss the lie we lived."
"What the hell is that supposed to mean?"
"Oh, fuck off, Tom." Liz snapped. "Tell them to send someone else next time. I'm so tediously tired of seeing you. You have surpassed being the bane of my existence."
"No one sent me here. I'm trying to make amends for–"
Sighing heavily, Liz continued on. "Stop following me. Stop stalking me." she rephrased her demand.
Tom shifted from one foot to the other, weighing his options. "If you would stop these dramatics and give me a few minutes of your precious time..." he kept calm, "we could resolve this."
"I really despise being spoken to as if I were a child." Liz's irritation grew.
"I want you to leave with me," Tom kept his voice calm, "right now."
"I do not want you here." she spread the words out evenly so even he could understand.
She could see the wheels turning in that bastard's head, trying to think of how to convince her to go.
He measured the odds. All the guards stood, staring coldly at him.
"Red may have dibs," she growled, mainly to herself, "... but I'm here now." Her hand itched to reach for her weapon.
Silas' mouth pulled at the corner, having heard the statement.
"What are you talking about?" Tom was lost. Liz ignored him.
She turned cold eyes towards the man, "I have filed a VPO against you." she handed him a copy. "You can not be within a hundred feet of me. If you violate this order–"
"Give me a break..." Tom scowled, laughing at such a pathetic ploy.
Liz knew he wouldn't take the protective order seriously, and that was fine. She only acquired it to cover her own ass. Handling things 'by the book' was often a waste of time, but if this issue came to a judicial state of affairs...
If Tom entered her home again, she could defend herself with little repercussion. Granted, Red would most likely cover it up and have Mr. Kaplan dispose of any damning evidence...but it never hurt to have a backup.
'Plan B' was now in place.
"If you do not leave," Liz smiled pleasantly, "I will be forced to take unpleasant actions."
There was no need to inform Tom of her plans. She did what the law required. She alerted him and gave him a copy. Thanks to Cooper and his judge friend, she may not even need to make a court appearance if this scenario played out as she expected.
Tom eyed the guards, "Gonna sick your dogs on me?" he smirked boldly defiant.
"I will let Red handle the situation as he sees fit."
"Reddington doesn't scare me."
"He should." Liz held his eyes steadily. "Especially after what happened at Antonio's."
"What are you talking about?" Tom's brows furrowed. "Crocetti?"
"You attempting innocence is actually rather nauseating." Liz realized. "What in God's name do you possibly think could happen between us now?" she was more than curious. "I have obviously made my choice."
Tom sighed patiently.
"That choice..." Liz spelled it out, "is to stay here," she motioned, enunciating clearly, "with Raymond Reddington."
"For God's sake, can't you see the danger he puts you in?" Tom was getting exasperated.
"As opposed to you?" she laughed humorlessly.
"Everything I have ever done is to–"
"Well, this should be novel." she crossed her arms, prepared to stay the course.
"He's lying to you, Liz." Tom's tone was tight.
"But not you, right... Jacob?" she used the name purposely, enjoying the fact the man's expression slipped. "You've never lied to me... have you?"
"It was a different time," he gestured curtly, "we were in a different place. I had no choice then."
"Well, I have a choice now." she dismissed every word he uttered. "It's all water under the bridge. So whoever you're working for now? You tell them to bring it because... we're ready and waiting for whatever diabolical plan they have in place."
"Look, would I subject myself to this... lifestyle," Tom spread his hands, gesturing to the guards, "to those assholes and their childish antics if," he halted slowly, calming himself visibly, "...if I didn't care for you, Liz. I would just move on."
Liz's head, full of one lie after another, began to throb. "Oh, if only that were true." she muttered.
"I do care for you!" Tom jumped at the chance presented.
"I meant," she corrected, "...the moving on part."
The sound of a powerful engine approaching caught everyone's attention. Each individual reacted differently to...
"Raymond," Dembe's deep timbre alerted his passenger to, "we seem to have a problem brewing ahead."
Red put the papers he had been perusing aside, craning his neck over the back seat.
A bevy of his men stood in a circle surrounding... a blue car.
Granted, they were all at discretely spaced intervals...
Red could see between the military-like precision of the detailed ensemble, his heart jumping erratically suddenly.
"Is that... Elizabeth?"
Tom Keen was outside the car and there was no mistaking the five foot seven beauty standing opposite him.
"My God, Dembe!" Red's hand clutched the headrest.
"Relax, Raymond," Dembe pulled the car to the curb, placing it in park, "the men are here. Let us endeavor to determine the situation before reacting hastily, yes?"
Red tried to calm his nerves. "Yes... yes, we could do that." he hauled out of the backseat, post-haste, "or I could put a bullet between the bastard's beady eyes once and for all."
"You could do that!" Francis hurriedly tagged along, excitement in his voice and manner. "That wouldn't be a problem."
Liz grimaced, seeking her head guard. She needed a few moments still.
Silas' hand lifted, motioning calmly.
"Oh... great." Tom Keen's head fell back. "The great and powerful Oz approaches."
"He won't." Liz sounded more confident than she felt, checking once again on Red gaining on Silas' position.
"Let me expla–"
"Yeah, you do that." Red turned his anger immediately on the head guard who stepped into his intended path. "You do that... really, really fast."
Silas' expression was carefully neutral. "This is a long time coming..."
Red noted the spreading stain of red on the guard's grey shirt front, his attention caught by something other than...
Red threw Liz a cryptic glare.
She smiled wanly, her eyes gentle and unassuming.
"I said," Silas was continuing, "I'd give her a minute."
"...Oh, you did?" Red nodded curtly.
"Yes, because she needs closure." Silas' tone hardened. "And if you can't see past your macho shit to know that... maybe you're just as bad for her as dickhead over there." he hooked a thumb.
"Oh," Francis drew in a sharp breath, retreating rapidly from Reddington's side, "... not good."
Red's temper flared incandescently.
"What he meant to say and so diplomatically failed," Joe stepped up quickly, "is, Liz has proven herself capable and uh..."
Silas' eyes locked obstinately with Red's heated one.
"She obviously needed to confront this jerk-off," Joe continued rapidly, "...maybe we should give her... what she needs."
Red's decision was far from cast.
"Raymond always has Elizabeth's best interest at heart." Dembe remarked almost idly. "As I'm sure he does now..."
Francis offered an impressed face, giving over a 'thumbs-up' sign.
Red forced his anger aside. "If he hurts her," he vowed, poking a finger into Silas' massive chest, "...I will... hurt you."
"I'm already hurting, dammit!" Silas snapped. He shifted into a less painful position.
"That's because," Joe reminded, "you never listen to reason!"
"Shut up!" Silas scowled.
Joe... shut up.
Red held Elizabeth's eyes willfully.
She smiled warmly at him but when she returned her interest to Tom, her features were hard and set.
"You see?" she gloated. "He trusts me."
"You don't even sound like yourself anymore, Liz." Tom pointed out, a worried look on his face. "What have they done to you?"
"You mean, I don't sound like the insipid, naive woman you could manipulate and manage," the words were tinted with resentment, "...yeah, she doesn't exist anymore."
Tom's eyes darkened, but he remained silent.
"As for what they have done to me," she motioned to her true friends, "they've given me support at the lowest times of my life... risked their lives for me repeatedly," she drew in a shaky breath, "and in general? Taught me how to be a better person in all aspects of my life. What have you done?"
Tom side-stepped the question or perhaps... accusation. "There was nothing wrong with you before, Elizabeth. Can't you see that?"
"You... you were what was wrong with me before." It was corrected. "You and whatever faction pulling your strings."
"He was the faction pulling my strings." Tom accused with a pointed finger.
Red's eye twitched but otherwise, he stood silent, allowing the vitriol to spew forth.
"I got out from under his control!" Tom stated emphatically.
"She doesn't believe any of that shit!" Silas hissed, in part because it was the truth, another to control Red's temper.
Red inwardly boiled that he had once trusted Tom to see to Elizabeth's well-being and used it as a ploy to sway Elizabeth now.
"Because Berlin paid more..." Liz growled.
"I was wondering when she'd call the stupid fuck on that." Silas' clipped tone stated just how tense he was.
Red realized how much control the guard was exerting. He hoped he had as much staying power because just seeing Lizzy mere feet from the asshole who caused her so much pain and suffering, agitated Red to unimaginable heights of fury.
Francis frowned his confusion, looking between the men for clarification... that was not forthcoming. Things were being said he did not understand.
"You're pacing, Red." Francis walked back and forth with the guy, a warning look on the ridiculously handsome face. "We all know, that's probably not a good thing, as I mentioned."
Red did not even hear the kid's earlier warning, truth told, his concentration on one thing only.
He focused on the sound of Lizzy's voice, straining to hear the words passing between her and the asshole.
"Again, I ask you," Tom was good at his job, his expression earnest, almost pleading, "if I didn't care for you, why would I be here, trying so desperately to reach you... to tell you the real truth?"
"You have your reasons, as usual." Liz dismissed Tom's warped view of the world. "Let's cut to the chase. What is it they sent you to try and sucker away from me?"
"You're so damned hard-headed! Obstinate!" Tom ranted.
Red... smiled. His Lizzy was that. They were some of her finer qualities if you asked him, especially now.
"How am I supposed to get you to listen to me!" Tom snapped. "To make you understand!"
"Oh, I'm listening." she advised. Her voice held a sickly sweet tone that made Tom's face redden with anger. "We're all hanging on your every word."
"They are why I try to get you away... alone." he gestured wildly. "If you're away from their influence long enough... maybe you'd finally 'get' it."
Red bit the inside of his cheek, the blood tasting warm and invigorating. If only it could be that filthy punk's. Visions of his fist connecting repeatedly with Tom's face soothed the rage he was experiencing somewhat.
"Why would I want to leave this place?" she glanced fondly at the massive gates of her home. "For the first time in my life... I've found a measure of peace. I feel... safe here. I have real friends that understand the true meaning of loyalty."
Why was she even wasting her breath? Tom would never... 'get it'.
"If you truly care anything for me... you'll want these things for me. Things," she sighed mentally, knowing a lost cause now, "Red has given me."
The man is question stopped pacing... the words filtering through the haze of rage he felt.
Red stared transfixed by the lovely profile. The words Lizzy spoke made his heart sing. He replayed them in his mind.
"The only thing he's given you is a target on your back." Tom hissed.
"I believe it was you who released my picture to the dregs of society, not Red." she corrected.
"Only to put pressure on him, to force him to realize the position he put you–"
"So you admit it." Liz jumped on the fact. "You are one low-life mother fu–"
"Do you really think I would have let any of those bastards within ten feet of you?" Tom rolled his eyes. "It's why I tried so hard to find you... why I stay close to you, Liz. My, God! There's no out there better than me... you were always protected."
"Yeah, by him." Liz jerked a thumb towards Red.
"You failed in your protection, you stupid fuck." Liz seethed. "One of your little minions attacked me and killed one of my men!"
"He twisted everything around to his benefit." Tom ran harried fingers through his hair. "Liz, he's lying to you! I promise!"
"Your promises are shit and Red has never lied to me even when," she reminded herself, "it would have benefitted him to do so."
"He's not stupid, Liz." Tom regained his perspective. "He is a master manipulator."
"Funny, I would have given that title to you."
"Mark my words," Tom warned ominously, "he will hurt you."
"Sorta like you did? Repeatedly?" She lifted perfectly styled brows. "How many time did you mentally and physically abuse me? Was it a means to climb the ladder? Or... what?" She was curious.
"You...won't...hear...reason." Tom gritted. "Do you think I wanted to–"
"Sucker punch me that day," she had a few issues to voice, once started, "...in the warehouse?"
Tom paled.
Red's body stiffened, the man paling himself.
Dembe placed a hand on his shoulder. "Elizabeth will let us know, Raymond... when we are needed."
"She's venting, Red." Francis added his advice. "She needs to say the fucking words. I know it's hard to stand here... and hear them."
Red swallowed hard.
"It was rather easy to figure out my assailant's identity you see because..." Liz was continuing her tirade, "I saw that stupid hippo I gave you after you tossed it in the trash."
She seethed in silence, waiting for the liar to manufacture yet another excuse. "I know you were there, you bastard."
Tom's infamous brain failed him in this instance, he struggled with a conceivable slant to use after confronted with such damning evidence.
"You tied me to a chair and broke my fucking thumb!" he countered angrily.
"So what?" the woman countered just as irate. "Payback's a bitch." she shrugged. "Which I assume was why we had that charming little moment when you held the gun to my head?"
"I was trying," Tom muttered angrily, "to get to Reddington."
"Then why not just hire a sniper to take him out since you're too much a coward to face him like a man." she snapped.
"I don't know what the hell that even means." the remark confused Tom. "You're the one going to get killed if you keep associating with–"
"Are you threatening me?" she was suddenly livid.
"Why did he get involved with you?" Tom switched topics and tactics mid-stream which was how he operated, Liz realized.
It used to confuse and upset the woman but Silas put her through the ringer more than this poor excuse ever could. She really should thank her guard for being such a pain in the ass.
"Why don't you tell me." Liz motioned with a hand. "I know you're dying to."
"Why don't you ask him."
"You are so fucking tedious." Liz finally understood Red's intolerance for stupidity. She was nearing her limit, personally.
"You're afraid to ask him." Tom taunted.
She sighed, turning about. "Hey Red... why did you get involved with me? I'm ever so curious.."
Red threw Tom an ice cold look. "... You know why." he replied evenly, but he was having the hardest time ridding his mind the white-hot anger he was feeling.
While he had meant the statement seriously, it shocked Red to see a tiny smile twitch at Elizabeth's beautiful mouth.
What the hell game was she playing? The furthest thing from Red's mind at that moment was taking a tumble with Lizzy. Though, as her gaze connected with his... vivid images of their lovemaking filled his mind.
He held her eyes steadily, sensing a deep intimacy between them...which had been her point.
They shared respect, communication, commitment, trust... love. Things she never did and never would... with Tom Keen.
Reluctantly nodding his acquiescence, Red took a step back, alerting Elizabeth he understood her ploy.
She knew Tom was full of shit and didn't believe a thing he said. She was simply seeing if Tom would reveal anything of use before ending the stand-off once and for all.
Tom felt a definite shift in the atmosphere but couldn't explain what it was. He realized it hadn't been in his favor.
"Shall I allow him to tell his version of the tale?" Liz asked politely.
"By all means..." Red gestured for Tom to have his say, "tell her why I'm here."
"Who was he to your parents?" Tom prodded jumping at the reprieve offered. "What was his role in the fire?"
Liz threw her hands out to her side, looking helplessly to the line of men standing behind her. Silas and Joe chuckled lowly at the woman's exasperated expression.
"Those sounded like questions to me." she retorted.
Sighing heavily, Liz looked back at the pest across from her. "I know who my parents were to Red. I–"
"Don't you think you've hurt her enough?" Tom addressed Reddington squarely for once.
Red scoffed quietly. "Tell me one thing I've done to hurt her." he canted his head after a moment's consideration, shrugging. "Aside from hiring a punk asshole to protect her."
Tom narrowed his eyes.
"I'm sorry sweetheart," Red apologized graciously, "I didn't know he would turn out to be a double-crossing prick."
"Everyone is entitled to one mistake." Liz soothed. "I forgive you."
"You're keeping the truth from her." Tom accused bitterly.
Red paused over the statement. Not because he was keeping things from Elizabeth. He and Elizabeth had discussed why he withheld certain subjects and she understood his reasoning behind it.
No, the absurdity of Tom's accusation stunned him.
"Have you revealed any truth today... or ever?" Red had to point out the obvious.
Tom's face reddened with anger, but he held his peace for the moment.
"You don't know the first thing about me," Red's tone chilled, "so don't pretend as if you do."
Tom's fists clenched at his sides when he realized the gap between him and Liz had widened... not only physically but metaphorically.
"Now, what is this truth you wish to impart on us?" Red goaded. "You know everything, so tell her." he waved a hand towards Elizabeth. "Tell her why I'm here, all the lies I've plied her with. Tell her who I really am."
Liz waited, listening for any new tidbits Tom may reveal. Her curiosity piqued. Oh, not that she didn't trust Red. If anything, her trust in her lover had grown exponentially since his arrival into this debacle.
"You're only using her." Tom disdained.
The guards slumped into more comfortable positions, resigning themselves they were in this for the long haul. Sure they were game players, as was most of their sex, but this guy was becoming downright embarrassing.
That made Liz feel slightly better, knowing she wasn't the only one who found this diatribe mind numbingly tedious. What was worse...it was mind-boggling to her, Tom's circumvent dialogue once fed her drive.
She had obviously been desperate to learn more about Red... but now, she could get information straight from the source.
"He'll do anything to get the Fulcrum." Tom needled, a desperation in his tone.
Like an alarm, bells ringing in her head alerted Liz they may finally be getting somewhere.
Red too sensed as much, adjusting casually in his relaxed position. She was happy to see the movement wasn't one of alarm as if he wished to hide something from her... but that he too wished to hear what this bastard might reveal.
Shaking from her reverie, Liz thought quickly what to say.
"Which is dumb, since Red has the Fulcrum." Liz did her part.
"They know you have it." Tom scowled.
"Then they don't know shit." Liz shrugged. "Red has had it all this time...he showed me."
Liz could barely contain her pleasure, watching Tom be on the receiving end of confusion and uncertainty for once.
"Just give me the Fulcrum and I'll–"
"Want all that power to yourself do you?" Liz felt her anger flare.
"Liz...I can get them to leave you alone if you'll just–"
"You tell whoever the hell you work for," she fumed, "I don't have the Fulcrum and if they want it... they'll have to go through Red to get it."
She spun on her heel, controlling her anger. To show Tom how pissed she was would only throw gas on the fire. She forced down her revulsion. All she wanted now... was to be by Red's side.
"Your father is still alive." Tom called after her, sensing he was losing the battle... and the war.
She calmed her reactionary desire to turn around. Tom damn well knew she would give anything to learn about her parents.
"I don't care." she snapped, spatting over her shoulder.
"I can take you to him." Tom sweetened the pot. "I can–"
"You're so buddy-buddy with him, call him," she growled, "right now. Call him and then maybe I'll believe you." she stared him down from a distance.
Red heart filled with pain for Elizabeth. He wanted so badly to soothe the ache. He knew how much Lizzy wanted such an occurrence to happen. Just to speak with her parents one time...
And that fucking bastard knew as much. Tom, in true fashion, used that knowledge to hurt Lizzy. To sway her to his way of thinking.
Only... Lizzy wasn't buying it. Tom had done enough damage for the day and unlike previous moments, Lizzy saw it for what it was.
"If he's alive, he knows where to find me... doesn't he." she taunted the man who had once been her husband.
"Let me take you to them... let them explain–"
Liz laughed her derision, shaking her head. "You just don't get it, do you?"
She confronted him, head on, glaring angrily up at the man. "If they wanted my trust, then they wouldn't have manipulated me." she seethed.
"I don't give a fuck who they are," she grated, beyond incensed. "But I'll tell you one thing.."
Tom opened his mouth only to feel very strong feminine hands shove him roughly against the hood of his car.
"Whoever the hell is yanking your strings," she growled her fury, "situated you in my life and had us marry... that speaks volumes of their deceit." she shook with anger. "I am uninterested in their side of the story. I don't give a damn who it is."
Tom stared down at Liz's enraged expression.
"And if it is my daddy dearest," she clenched her jaw, "you tell him, I said... fuck off."
Shoving the man, she turned searching out her head guard.
"Rescind my previous order." Liz pointed, glaring daggers at Tom Keen. "You see him, within a hundred feet of the premises, of me... you shoot him!" she snarled. "Do you understand me?"
Tom righted himself, pushing off the car's hood, rubbing a sore spot.
"Yes, Ma'am." Silas replied evenly. The men beside him snapped upright, their attention once again focused.
"I suggest you fucking leave," her fiery eyes demanded Tom obey her, "and don't even think about ever coming back!"
Tom's eyes darted between the men focused intently on Liz, then to the woman herself. Making a split second decision, Tom grabbed for her, yanking her back forcibly his way.
Anticipating the last ditch effort, Liz hit out. Her ring cut into Tom's face, slashing a long gash across his cheekbone.
The sound of weapons clearing holsters filled the air... the metal slide of ammo entering chambers was a welcome sound to the woman.
"They shoot me," he grated, "they shoot you." he struggled with the furious bundle of rage he was encountering.
"Then let's change the odds!" Liz snarled.
Trapping her arms at her side, Tom manhandled Liz only a few steps when out of the blue...
Tom bellowed painfully when the woman's skull connected soundly with his face. He blinked rapidly at the stinging wetness in his eyes that resulted from the hit.
Blood poured from his nose, running in heavy rivulets down his lips. He spit uselessly, his mouth filling with the metallic taste.
Stars danced before the man's eyes for a long beat but he refused to give up his hold on the woman, tightening his arms painfully.
Which only infuriated Liz more...
Red stayed his men as all waited patiently for the opportunity to present itself, for he knew without doubt Tom Keen would not be leaving here this day alive... not if he had anything to say about it.
All avenues of escape were blocked and secure.
What the idiot hoped to accomplish by the stunt he just pulled, Red had no idea.
Desperation makes one do desperate things, he supposed.
Red stepped decidedly closer but halted his slow advance when he witnessed the small, dull object being tugged from Elizabeth's clothing.
The momentum of Liz's body slamming hard into the man's chest ripped Tom's fingers from their grasp on the door handle.
She braced her feet on the concrete, pushing with all her strength... backward.
Red was well within the distance needed to intervene but something held him back.
Lizzy's face showed a grim determination. She twisted slightly, the weapon in her hand spitting fire.
The angle was wrong, missing its target.
Tom, startled by the sound of weapons fire so close, loosened his hold a fraction of an inch.
An inch that was more than enough.
"You didn't expect a fair fight," she grinned maliciously, "did you."
She fired again; the bullet slicing cleanly through the calf of Tom's leg.
Pushing out reflexively, Tom slid Liz down the car towards the backseat, her clothes cinched tightly in his hand. He threw open the car door...
Stumbling with the momentum, Liz's brow connected soundly with the hard metal of the door's frame, blackening her vision a moment.
"Elizabeth!" Red yelled out, but he had another reason to hesitate now. A weapon could so easily discharge in the heat of the scuffle...
Red was being denied access to her. She knew it made him sick to see her injured but... dammit; she needed this. Just a few more seconds.
Please, God... she could do this! She had to do it for her own sanity.
Tom pushed at her once more, knocking her off kilter. Throwing her hands outward, the gun went flying. It skittered across the pavement, out of reach.
Catching herself on the door, she frantically reached, grasping at straws. Miraculously a pair of bolt cutters, laying forgotten in the floorboard, found their way into her searching hands.
Leaning into the car's frame, she rolled her back against the cool metal, swinging her weapon of circumstance in hand.
The bright red steel connected soundly with Tom's side, stealing his breath away. Her vision swam as she lifted the cumbersome weight overhead. Squeezing her eyes tight to control the nauseating affect, she brought the heavy steel down hard.
She cursed inwardly, knowing it missed the target when her efforts met soft tissue and not the resounding surface of Tom's head.
"Get in the car!" Tom hissed his pain and agitation.
"Make me, bitch!" she gritted right back, grimacing when the smell of his hot breath, awash with blood, filled her nostrils.
She worked her hand between their bodies, up and out... free! She shoved the heel of her palm into the man's broken nose.
Releasing the grip on his leg, Tom cursed his pain, reaching for his wounded face.
Taking the opening, Liz kicked, landing her foot square against the seeping would of Tom's leg.
His leg buckled with her assault, falling heavily into her smaller frame.
She cried out, her teeth rattling when her neck hit against the door's frame. Her ass fell backwards into the open doorway.
Kicking her heel outward, Liz jabbed the bleeding wound on Tom's leg once again as she fell.
She gasped for air when his full weight fell upon her, trapping her between the door and car's frame.
Blindly feeling the floor beside her, her fingers curved about a long-stemmed handle she thought to be a screwdriver.
Turning, she bit hard into the man's neck until the taste of his blood tinged her mouth. She enjoyed his shout of pain and graphic curse.
She instinctively jabbed downward, the satisfying sensation of the weapon puncturing his flesh and sliding effortlessly through muscle... was a vindicating moment she would cherish for a long while.
Tom's tormented cry of agony only heightened the clarity she felt, exuberance filtering through her body.
All at once...the suffocating weight... was gone.
Red had seen his opening, venturing forth rapidly to the combating individuals.
Grasping Tom's collar, Red pulled the solid fabric against the asshole's neck until the lone button on his tacky Polo popped free.
Tom slithered away, streaking her shoulder and chest with the blood pouring freely from his face.
Instantly, a large hand grasped her face, forcing her eyes to open–
"Red.." sudden concern washed over her as she forced her eyes open, searching out the man.
Contrite, guileless faces stared down at her.
Francis grimaced at the melee occurring just beyond their position, "Red's uh..."
"He's occupied at the moment." Silas glanced lazily back over his shoulder. "He'll be here directly, I'm sure."
"But... he's okay?" Liz rubbed her sore neck absently.
"Oh... he's real good along about now." Francis reassured.
She struggled to sit upright, intent on getting up.
"Easy there, champ." Francis' smile was contagious. He knelt beside her, keeping her in place. "End of round one."
She slumped back, grimacing when the footboard dug into her side. Readjusting her position, she collapsed back, regaining her breath.
The sound of flesh meeting flesh along with the apoplectic malediction Red was unleashing on her assailant echoed in the background... alerting her to the reason for Red's absence.
"Want to spit in a bucket and get back in there?" Silas' deep baritone tickled her.
"It's Red's round," she waved a tired hand, "let him have the glory."
"Now that you've tired Tom out?" Francis tried a lightness he did not feel. He worried his hand on his trousers, phone to his ear. He barked an order into the object before slapping the phone shut.
The large guard gripped her chin, lifting her eyes towards his. He breathed his relief, finding her pupils equal and reactive. He worried when she hit her head and neck so hard but all seemed fine.
"You did good." Silas patted her knee. He smirked showing the dimple in his cheek. "I didn't know you were carrying... ankle or boot, I couldn't see."
"Both," she sighed happily.
Neither Silas, nor Red, expected when Tom stood upright with the woman... she would come up armed.
When Liz continued with the flow of her movement and shot without hesitation, the surprise both men experienced, was a pleasant emotion.
Red had calmed some then, allowing the woman to have her confrontation with Tom. Though... Red's controlled temper only lasted a short while.
"I knew you'd go for the neck," Silas chuckled, "you little blood-thirsty vampire."
"Had I not, you would given me hell for the lost opportunity." Liz sighed.
"Well, now that you mention it, you didn't follow through with your left." Silas chastised the woman's form. "I've told you a hundred times to–"
Liz pinched her lips, "Well, I didn't expect that bitch to fall like a mighty oak, now did I!"
Silas grinned, winking, "She's still got it."
Francis snapped surly eyes the guard's way, sighing his disgruntlement.
"You sure you don't want back in?" Silas asked in jest, checking over her wound. "We could throw a bucket of water on you."
"She's gonna knock your lights out if you don't shut up." Francis warned.
"Nah," she stretched her tired muscles, "I just fuck up his sex life... don't I, baby cakes."
Silas nodded his agreement, "She does that... exceedingly well."
The car jostled, moved her painfully.
"You're sure Red is–"
"He's good." Francis shushed her.
"Where are... they?" she tried to stretch to see over the window but Francis blocked her path as did a wall of men taking in the fight.
"He's fine." he grumbled. "Let's get you out of here."
She protested, "But–"
"You can watch it later," Francis grumbled, hooking an arm around her waist, "Couple of the guys are recording it."
"Of course they are..." she lifted her arms up over Francis' shoulder, reluctantly accepting the assistance offered.
Joe's brows lifted the longer he watched the melee.
Tom Keen may be younger and faster, delivering solid hits to his opponent.
But Red Reddington had years of experience, a heavier weight behind his punches... and a lot of rage driving his lust for the other man's blood.
Twice now, Red had knocked the boy to his knees. Both times, Red allowed good sportsmen like conduct, allowing the younger man to stand back up before going on the attack once more.
They should have expected this level of savagery. Red had been waiting a long time to have his moment with Tom Keen.
Granger shrugged his approval when Reddington blocked Tom's intended blow with his right before following through with the same arm, punching the man solidly against the jaw.
Reddington knocked the boy senseless just as his left came in from the other side, leaving Tom staggering.
Joe cackled his delight, "Red's still got it."
"I haven't seen him fight like this since," Justin searched his memory, "that bar in Sudan."
Dembe nodded, remembering the incident well. "Five against twelve... and we were still victorious." he reminded. "But then, of course... we were fighting for our lives."
"You know we won that fight," Justin scoffed, "because they made Silas spill his beer on his last pack of cigarettes."
Dembe graciously allowed the belief, knowing it to be a true one. Silas had bitched continuously over the next day as he vainly tried to air out his sticks of nicotine bliss.
"This is so much more satisfying..." Joe lifted a flourishing hand, "this... is justice for Liz."
"What the hell for?" Justin wanted to know. "After the damage she did to Stalker boy?"
"It is now..." Dembe explained patiently, "a matter of principle."
A point made obvious when Red shoved Tom to the hood of the dark blue car, grabbing a fist full of shirt. He drove his fist forcefully into the man's face, repeatedly.
Tom slipped a fist through the pummeling, connecting with Reddington's mouth. A split tore into Reddington's lip, dripping blood to Tom's already stained shirt.
Delivering a series of solid punches to Reddington's jaw, Tom growled his irritation when it only seemed to fuel the fire, instead of dampening it.
The rage Red felt burst like a Supernova, blinding any sanity he may have retained. The thought Tom hit his Lizzy with the same force...
"You son-of-a-bitch!" Red grunted angrily as he lashed out, brutally beating the asshole.
Connecting soundly with one downward blow, Red felt gratified to see the bubbling mist of blood, spray in a fan from Tom's mouth across the shiny metal of the man's tacky car.
"That..." Dembe nodded quietly, "was for Elizabeth."
When Red went up against the likes of Edward and Brad, in defense of Elizabeth... he believed he knew what it felt like to be furious.
He had been wrong. Not until this moment, had Red ever experienced such murderous rage.
Never had Red wanted to kill someone so badly with his bare hands. Visions of ripping vital organs from Tom's useless body and shoving them back down the fucker's throat, fed the warring anger flooding his system.
Desperately trying to find an edge in the relentless beating, Tom tightened his fist in preparation to strike only to have it seized in a unrelenting hold. He pushed against the heavy weight uselessly.
While it didn't help he had not yet healed from the injuries he sustained days ago in the skirmish, leaving his body now taxed to its limit.
Reddington was proving a more hostile opponent than anticipated.
Expecting the older man would have expended his energy by now, Tom felt an unsettling sensation in his gut when, moments ago, Reddington's eyes became a blank slate. The black irises glaring down at him seemed almost inhuman.
Sensing an opening, Tom kneed Reddington in the side, grappling for leverage to shift his position.
Red grunted with the hit, shifting away from the following pain. Quickly readjusting his grip, he used the momentum to slide Tom across the hood, down to the hard pavement.
Tom gasped as he fell to the unforgiving surface, his breath stolen. He screamed in agony when Reddington put his entire weight onto the seeping wound of his leg.
"You fucking bastard!" Red snarled viciously as he bent over the prone form, brutally beating the lowlife fucker's head into the dark asphalt.
"Red..." Francis touched his arm, only to have it forcefully knocked away. "...Okay." the young man stepped back out of the way, hands raised.
Pushing up with his arm, Tom yelled out as the unstable limb was kicked out from underneath him. He was mildly surprised to feel the heavy weight of Reddington's fist connect solidly against his mangled face rather than the man's foot.
Tom knew he was in trouble. In this prone position, his mouth and nasal passage filled with blood making it impossible to breath. His eyes were swelling shut. He was weakening...
"Raymond." Dembe grabbed his arm, only to have Raymond slap it away. Dembe sighed lightly, waiting patiently.
Red snarled victoriously with the satisfying sensation of Tom's head bouncing off the rough pitted road beneath his feet. The fleshy crack of bone brought a grim smile to Red's lips.
The pricks cheek split under the unforgivable and savage beating, leaving Tom's face unrecognizable.
"...Shit." Silas saw the approaching vehicles long before anyone else did. He sighed his disappointment.
The sound of a car behind him barely registered as Red landed a series of rapid punches to Tom's nose. A sense of satisfaction encompassed the man when he felt the already mangled bone under his knuckles.
He was so proud of Lizzy...
"Stand aside!" A man yelled. "Let us through!"
"Raymond!" Dembe barked uselessly. Grabbing his friend's arm again, Dembe held it steady only to have Red readjust his position, hitting out with his left.
"Grab his fucking arm!" someone yelled.
As he drew back for another blow, Red's elbow was hooked and pulled back, then two other hands grasped him tightly, dragging him back and away from his opponent's body.
"I'm gonna fucking kill you!" Red hissed viciously, struggling against the hold.
He fought savagely even as he was dragged off the bleeding man. He kicked out, catching Tom across the face and side before they forced him away.
"Hey, boss... listen..." Joe yelled in Red's face, as the man fought to get back to the prick son-of-a-bitch laying, moaning on the ground.
A series of men shouting at him only furthered Red's anger and agitation. He wanted to finish what he started, and they were preventing him from completing the task.
Tom Keen deserved to die. And they weren't letting him do what needed to be done. What should be done. Where was the justice in that?
Red reached for his back, grasping his gun, cherishing the sound of it clearing the holster. He brought it around, his aim steady.
People scattered, and he was finally free.
Scrambling forward, Red's fist grasped Tom Keen's bloodied shirt-front.
Red ignored the biting pain of the asphalt under his knees as he knelt, placing the cool barrel to Tom's forehead.
"Fuck!" Silas yelled, pushing the weapon away just as it fired.
The bullet carved a wedge into the black surface, spraying Tom with slivers of fine granule.
Grasping Red's wrist, Silas twisted it about at an impossible angle, finally wrangling the weapon free.
Red glared incredulously at the head guard for derailing what should have been. Silas was the last person he thought would ever put a stop to ending Tom Keen's existence.
He had never felt such betrayal.
Francis stepped in front of Red's vision, locking eyes with the furious man, "Lizzy needs you. She's hurt."
Red stopped struggling instantly, his body trembling with his rage. Whipping his head around, he steadily searched the chaos and huddled masses surrounding him.
"...Francis." Red's voice shook with adrenaline.
Francis pointed the needed direction. Red's eyes sought and found the woman, ten meters away.
Lizzy lay quietly in the grass on her side. Her head pillowed on his jacket.
Joe and Granger knelt by her side, talking quietly to her. Joe caught a package Justin threw his way. He nodded at something Lizzy said before wiping her neck off with a soft cloth.
Red pulled on the arms holding him stationary, growling angrily.
He looked at the strangers denying him access to Elizabeth. Who the hell were these idiots? Red could not make any sense through the haze of his fury which still lingered.
"Let him go." Francis urged.
"You keep out of this." one of the stranger's instructed.
"I'd let him go if I were you." Francis warned lightly.
Francis backed away quickly when Red stomped on the feet and jabbed an elbow towards the men holding him, shoving them forcefully away from him as he rushed for Lizzy.
"Grab him dammit!" a man bellowed, obvious pain infiltrating his voice.
"Here, let me help you up." Francis allowed Red time to reach Lizzy. He knew the man would calm the moment he touched her.
"You grab him!" the other stranger suggested, rubbing his jaw back and forth.
"He's a little perturbed. He'll be better soon." Francis explained.
"Lizzy..." Red breathed, crouching next to her, his relief instant, his fury evaporating into nothingness.
"Baby...let me see." he tenderly stroked her sweat dampened hair.
"I'm okay." she assured, rolling over to look up at Red.
Red eyes darkened when her bruised face came into view. Joe cracked an ice pack, before gently laying it on her side.
"She's a trooper, boss." Joe smiled at the woman.
"Ma'am, did this man hit you?" A man asked as he too crouched down beside them.
Red snapped an angered scowl at the man... in a uniform. A damn cop!
"No..." she grimaced as the cold ice bit into her side. "Red would never hurt me."
"He didn't hit her you idiot!" Francis bitched. "I've been telling you! You got the wrong guy!" he jabbed a finger towards Tom. "That fucker over there did."
The cop stood, holding out a hand, "Tell me what happened."
Francis began to relay the gory details.
Red wiped away the blood coming from Liz's eyebrow. "Do you want me to call Kate?" he frowned his concern.
"Francis did." Joe assured. "She's en route."
"I'm okay." Liz crinkled her nose. "Just sore." she pushed her arms under her, lifting experimentally.
Red wrapped his arms around her, helping her into a sitting position. She groaned wearily, sighing lightly.
"What the hell am I gonna do with you?" Red glanced around at the commotion, finally taking notice four cops and an ambulance were on scene.
And Tom Keen laying limply in front of his car.
Alive.
Red glanced at the red stain on the pavement left behind when they loaded Tom to a stretcher.
That stain should have been bigger.
A sturdy hand on his shoulder denied his attempt to stand.
"Don't do it, Red." Francis warned. "She is more important at the moment. Besides... too many witnesses of the wrong kind are here." he quirked his brow. "Our time will come, trust me."
Red hooked his arms under Lizzy's legs and around her back, lifting her securely in his hold.
"Oh!" Liz whooped, grasping for Red's shoulder as he stormed towards the house.
"While this is kind of sexy, in a caveman sort of way," her eyes softened, "...I can walk, you know."
"Hush." Red's softened his tone, nuzzling her hair. "I like feeling you in my arms."
"If he was going caveman on you, he'd be dragging you by the hair." Francis corrected in passing.
She flushed slightly, holding her instinctive retort. She liked when Red pulled her hair a little but that was her own dirty little secret.
"Let him be manly, Lizzy..." Francis winked playfully, "it'll make him feel better."
She smiled, wrapping her arms about Red's neckline, hugging him.
"Hey! Hey!" a man yelled behind them. "We're not done with you! Stop!"
"Fuck off!" Red yelled back over his shoulder, continuing on his trek.
"Red.." Liz laid her head against his shoulder, smiling, "I think that guy is a cop."
"I don't give a shit!" he bitched as he walked the pathway to the front door.
Francis hurried in front of him, pushing the door open, stepping out of the way as Red passed through the doorway.
"Cops are useless in situations like this. They arrive too late to do any good." he grumbled. "They know it, I know it."
Red stalked through the house making his way to the kitchen. He literally kicked the door open, startling Nora.
"Oh, good heavens!" the woman gasped, dropping her sponge.
"Nora, a cold cloth, please." Red asked, sitting his precious cargo on a nearby counter.
"Forgive his brusque tone, Nora," Liz smiled wanly, "he's in a grouchy mood."
"I can't imagine why." Nora shot the woman a wry scolding look, running a cloth under the ice cold tap.
Red vaguely registered the cloth placed in his hand, too intent on brushing Liz's hair back out of her face, his touch lovingly gentle.
"When I tell you to stop, you better stop!" Officer Parker growled as he burst through the doorway... livid and out of breath.
"Kiss my ass!" Red growled right back but his statement was much more icy in comparison.
He stepped aside, allowing Nora access to Lizzy. She crooned softly, blotting Lizzy's sore face gently with a fresh, cool cloth.
"Who are you?" Officer Parker snapped at Nora.
"You better lose that tone, boy!" Nora snapped right back as she stroked Liz's hair. The cop blinked, but settled quickly. "I am the household cook, not that it has any bearings on what's been going on around here!"
"Look, you want to tell me what happened out there?" Parker took a breath, calming.
Red took Nora's place, wiping away the blood from Liz's face, remaining stoically silent.
Liz filled in the day's events between sips of refreshing cool water and soothing hot tea.
"He's been stalking you, ma'am?" Parker clarified.
"Yes, he's been fucking stalking her!" Red snapped.
She nodded, then twisted her neck, working out a kink. "For some time now, yes." Liz sought Red. "We have proof."
"I'll take care of her." Nora assured, handing the young woman some ibuprofen. "You do what you have to."
Red stroked Liz's face, "I'll be right back."
"Kay." she swung her legs under the open counter. She could barely contain her joy she was feeling, hardly aware of the pain. "Nora? We have to talk." she needed to share her glee with someone.
"You go lay down." Red scowled, correcting the suggestion.
Pinching her lips, Liz held her smile but nodded. "...Kay."
Nora watched her suspiciously, a smile lurking.
Red narrowed his eyes, but pointed to the door gesturing Officer Parker to follow him to the office.
"What are you up to, young lady?" Nora teased.
Red pushed through the door, heading for the boxes of photographs. "I sold Elizabeth's house recently. Contractors found a secret room, and this was inside."
"How can you be sure it's him?" Parker asked, leafing through the photographs.
"Along with these, came letters." Red pulled over a stack full of paper, showing the man. "There's personal information in them that only that bastard knew." his jaw tightened.
"He sits out there all day, watching me." Liz said from the doorway. Nora hovered beside her.
Red turned his attention to her, "You were supposed to rest."
Francis and Nora shared an amused look. When did Lizzy ever do anything she was supposed to...
"I'm fine." she smiled softly.
Red gently guided her to the couch, easing her down into the soft surface, his features brooding.
"I filed a VPO on Tom." Liz informed the police officer.
Red frowned, unaware she would waste her time on such a task. She more than anyone knew that little piece of paper did nothing to offer her protection... obviously.
He took the folder she held aloft, skimming the contents. She had a detailed inventory of all the charges against Tom to date, along with pictures of Antonio's shattered windows and her bruised face from an altercation she had with Tom.
Parker stepped forward, taking the information.
"He makes my daily life unbearable." Liz said, leaning into the ice pack. "I can't walk in my yard without him hovering there on the other side of the fence."
Red's expression sobered further. He ran gentle fingers through her hair, soothing them both.
She grasped his fingers, squeezing them. It amazed her sometimes how these hands that could cause so much brutality... touched her as if she were the most precious thing in the world.
Liz sighed her irritation for another Officer had come on scene. This one not so obliging or... malleable. The guy's face was rigid, his manner unyielding.
Shit...Tom apparently informed them who his attacker was.
Damage control time...
"Can we get more ice, please?" Red too, must have noticed the man's unwavering attention.
Francis nodded and followed Nora out as the other Officer stepped inside. He instantly drew his weapon, pointing it directly at: the FBI's most wanted criminal.
"Close the door." Liz muttered tightly.
Parker scowled at Officer Campbell for the unprovoked action. As visibly upset as this guy had been at first meeting... the man had calmed once he tended to the woman's injuries.
Still, Parker placed a precautionary hand on his weapon.
"Close the damn door." Liz repeated. "Now!"
Officer Campbell stepped inside, pushing the door closed... his manner on high alert now.
"I am FBI, Special Agent Elizabeth Keen, and yes, he is Red Reddington. He has immunity." she whispered urgently. "No one on the property knows I'm his handler."
"Do you have proof?" Parker asked just as quickly.
"In my room." Liz made to stand with Red's assistance. "You'll need to speak to Director Harold Cooper." she rattled off a number.
"I need your badge and–"
A knock at the door, stopped Parker instantly. At least this police officer had enough intelligence to check out her story before dismissing it.
Campbell hid his weapon at his side, opening the door for Francis who entered, carrying a couple of icepacks.
"Here, Lizzy." the young man handed her a cloth wrapped pack, then one to Red. "For your hand."
"Thank you, Francis." Red took the pack. "Could you give us a few minutes? Lizzy is..."
"Oh, yes. Of course." Francis smiled softly at the woman. "I'll just be with Nora if you need anything." he nodded at them before leaving the room.
"Your identification?" Parker reminded, getting back on track hastily.
Liz gestured with her head, wincing. "I don't carry it with me, for obvious reasons."
Red and Liz walked to their room, Officer Campbell closing the door behind them when they all got inside.
She headed for her side table, opening the drawer slowly. "It's there." she pointed as Parker came alongside her.
Parker nodded his gratitude that she had not reached for it herself. A Glock lay right beside it, loaded and ready for use.
Parker tossed the wallet to Campbell. The man pulled his cell free, making the necessary call.
"May I ask..." Parker hesitated. "None of my business..." he quietened his tone, glancing about the stylish room, "Nice digs, our undercovers usually get a motel off the interstate."
"I was badly injured during a case," she smiled at the man beside her. "Red saved my life, and let me convalesce here."
Parker's brow knitted, surprised the criminal gave a damn what happened to an FBI agent. But then, he was Keen's CI. They had to form some sort of camaraderie under such circumstances.
"And you're right," Red joined the fray, "it's none of your business."
"Point taken." Parker was beyond curious, however. He was a cop after all. It was part of his nature.
"I may be a criminal," Red scowled, "but I protect my assets."
Parker inclined his head, understanding that mentality. The cop had CI's he protected in the past.
Though, as Parker looked closer at the pair sitting on the couch... he wondered if there wasn't more to it.
Oddly, he didn't judge Keen if they had stepped over a line. She obviously put in a lot of hours to insert herself into Reddington's life as a trusted source.
Finding a normal relationship outside of law enforcement was difficult on the best of days. When you were on call 24/7 as Agent Keen seemed to be... finding a lover would be next to impossible.
Officer Campbell stepped forward, relating the information on hand. The men discussed the VPO and their options with Cooper.
As the two conversed, Liz turned her attention to...
"You know, it might help if you actually use the ice." Liz pointed to Red's swollen and cut hand.
"I'm fine." Red muttered tightly.
Sighing, Liz grasped the pack, laying it over Red's knuckles.
"Director Cooper wants to know if you want him here?" Officer Parker asked.
"No, we're all fine." Liz waved off Cooper's further involvement. "Tell him we'll give a report later."
Campbell signed off, handing her wallet back.
"What now?" she asked.
"Based on our own visual of the situation," Parker smirked. "Tom Keen will remain in our custody until we can establish his side of events, of course."
Liz inclined her head graciously. The Officers knew enough of the story, but would simply follow procedure should anyone ask for details.
"We assume... you wish to press charges." Parker hoped she would, so many victims, even those in law enforcement, seldom did.
While Red had no faith in the justice system what-so-ever, Elizabeth did to a certain extent. He wondered how she would handle this.
"I do." Liz nodded. "Will you arrest him?"
Red also wondered how Parker would address this issue.
Parker glanced at Reddington, his fingers twitching on his utility belt. There were days, he really hated his job.
Moral dilemma aside, he had the ultimate criminal in his midst. One of which Parker was positive, was very adept at handling... problems such as this.
Red felt the man's interest, slowly lifting a brow, waiting to see which road Parker chose.
"I will." Parker replied. "Per procedure, Mr. Keen will be treated at the nearest hospital for his injuries," he shifted his attention back to Reddington, "then released back into my custody, within the hour."
Which meant, in Red's world, Parker wouldn't put up too much resistance if Red decided to alter that custody.
Red subtly inclined his head in gratitude, patting Elizabeth's hand comfortingly.
Campbell stepped forward, offering Liz a warm smile, "Mr. Keen will be detained, Agent..eh... Ms–"
"Have you retained your maiden name?" Parker interrupted quickly as he heard footsteps in the hall.
Liz smiled gratefully, "Yes, Elizabeth Scott."
Red headed for the doorway, just as Dembe peeked about the frame. He and the large black man exchanged a few quick words. Red rejoined Elizabeth as she stood and thanked the officers, escorting them to the front.
Parker and Campbell were just handing her their business cards when their radios began to fill with rapid chirps and chatter.
Parker gestured Campbell to vacate, which he did... quickly, leaving Parker to explain what they were hearing.
"He escaped," Dembe had advised Red of the situation, "didn't he." Red shared a knowing exchange with Elizabeth.
"They're reporting an officer and a medic down." Parker confirmed.
"Dead?" Liz dreaded the answer.
While not pleased Tom escaped, Red understood his guards following the transport, had stayed to assist the officer and medic. He approved of their split second decision.
"They're alive... for now." Parker wouldn't make predictions. "As if we didn't want him before..." the officer gestured to Liz's face.
Liz understood loyalty to the badge... or at least, the men behind the badge. "Keep me in the loop?"
"Yes, I definitely will." Parker nodded, glancing at Reddington. "If Keen should show back up here–"
"We are ready." Reddington assured. "And I won't leave her side."
Parker nodded his understanding and vacated, joining the hunt for Tom Keen.
Ushering Liz back to their room, Red closed the door behind them as they entered. The need for privacy a must.
"You didn't have to do that, you know." Liz said, as Red walked close behind her. "You shouldn't always jump to my defense at work–"
"We're partners, at work and at home," Red stressed. "But in this case... what happened out there didn't have a damn thing to do with the fucking Cabal or Fulcrum," he settled his hand on his hips, "or Tom's involvement with any of it."
Liz frowned her confusion, "Then what–"
"This was entirely personal." Red fought to control his tone. "The only thing I cared about in that moment was that my soul mate..." he seethed, "was in harm's way."
"I had it under control, Red." Liz gentled her expression. "You didn't have to–"
"Before you go any further," Red lowered his voice, "if you can stand there and tell me to my face, you wouldn't have become involved if you witnessed someone attacking my ass... then, I guess I owe you an abject apology."
Liz would have reacted in the same manner, she knew he was right.
"That's what I thought." Red stretched his sore fingers, enjoying the ache. "I don't care how damned capable you are, Elizabeth. I am not going to stand by while that bastard, or any bastard, harms what I love most in this world."
Liz's heart ached with love for the man as his words settled. It must have taken a great deal of control on his part to not interfere for as long as he did.
"And if you expect me to–" he was silenced by the soft pressure of her lips on his.
"I expect," she gently kissed his bottom lip, "you to react how you deem suitable." she lifted on her toes, kissing him fully.
After a long moment, Red finally relaxed against her, kissing her back at length with all the pent up emotion of the day.
"I was trying to do that," Red grumbled his discontent, "until Silas stopped me."
She chuckled quietly under her breath, continuing her endeavors to settle the man's anger.
"Thank you," she murmured against his mouth, "...for having my back."
"I have yours," he brushed her pouty mouth gently, "...you have mine."
"...I love you." she snuggled into his chest, sighing her contentment.
Settling his cheek against the soft strands of her hair, the rapid beat of his heart slowed to a regular pattern the more her soft scent filled his senses.
"I love you, baby."
She didn't need to hear the words to believe them, for the emotion itself fairly radiated off the man in waves. The love and comfort she found in his arms filled her with a serene peace she had searched for her entire life.
In that moment, everything she told Tom Keen about how she belonged here... with Red, held more truth than even she realized.
They stood in companionable silence, holding one another until both felt the stress of the day, and any thought of Tom Keen... faded into nothing.
Red's expression softened when he looked at Lizzy's upturned face, huffing slightly under his breath. Only Lizzy could make a black eye look so angelic.
"You better hope that's healed by the time we see Antonio." he tenderly caressed the darkening with his lips.
Liz gasped, her eyes widening with panic.
"...Or he will shoot me," Red murmured, "...again."