Disclaimer : None of this is mine, not even the main part of the plot, much to my shame. It won't get into it until later, but one of the biggest parts of the plot was suggested to me by Belinda (Aznbeez), so I can't even take credit for that. Bah, humbug.

Okay, I know I haven't updated B&J in a month. I have no excuse, 'cept for I'm lazy, and after reading 12 Sharp, I just.. lost inspiration. Meh. I'll probably finish up B&J and pretend like TS never existed, but I dunno.

Now, back to this story. I've been working off and on on this story ever since part of the plot was suggested to me by Belinda. Of course, with my one-shots and B&J, it's more of a half-assed attempt. But I'm gonna try hard -sighz at the thought of having to be responsible- and finish up both B&J and this. Well, B&J could easily be finished, if I just got off (on?) my lazy ass and started writing. I have the plotline and everything, but..

Anyway, these people are adults, and act like adults, and if you don't like it then FUCK YOU but have a nice day. :) Screw ya and get away from my story. Whoopie, and a bowl of cheerios. So, to begin the story.. here ya go..


"Stephanie, there is only one way I will allow you to go with us, and that is if you PROMISE to do EXACTLY as I say." Ranger's voice was harsh and urgent; he knew that if he did not make a decision soon, he would foil the whole plan.

"Fine." Stephanie did not like it, but she would deal with it.

"No," Ranger said urgently, "Not fine. You don't realize, this guy is a brain-washing, corruptive-"

He was cut off by the ringing of his cell phone.

"Yo.. On our way."

Ranger pursed his lips, then let out a furious growl of frustration. He grabbed Stephanie's hand and lead her to the large garage. He checked her to make sure she had her weapons and vest; once satisfied, he started the vehicle. In minutes, the duo had arrived at the old, rundown bar in the ghetto of Trenton, New Jersey. Steph leaned over to get out, only to be yanked by her shoulders to Ranger. He pressed his lips to hers, and she naturally responded. Without a word, he pulled away from her and opened the truck door.

"Stephanie." Joe Morelli and many of her other police companions were standing by, but only Morelli spoke. He kissed her on the forehead. "Be careful," he said softly. Stephanie slid the engagement ring off of her finger and into his hand, then pressed a kiss to his palm.

"I will be." Stephanie kept the fear out of her voice, but it must have shown in her eyes, for Morelli pulled her into a hug.

"Morelli, Stephanie." Ranger's face was a mask of professional blankness. "It is time."

Stephanie pulled out of Morelli's embrace and, with slight hesitation, followed Ranger.. Ranger led her to the side of the building to put a wire on her; then, they were calmly walking into the bar.
"There he is," Ranger muttered to her, pointing out a very handsome man. Stephanie nodded, then put on a show of confidence as she made her way over to the man.

"'Lo," the man said, flashing a dazzling, heartstopping smile. Stephanie forced a smile back. This man was wanted and well known for kidnapping and raping women, but Stephanie was taken back by his innocent, boyish looks.

"Hi," she said, aware of the breathliness of her vioce. His smile turned into a smirk.

"Derek," he said, holding out his hand.

"Stephanie." She smiled and shook his hand.

"So, Stephanie," he said after a few moments of silence, "Would you like to dance with me?"

Stephanie saw, out of the corner of her eye, Tank nod.

"Sure."

He took her hand and led her out onto the floor. Stephanie was impressed. She had pictured this guy to be a sleezeball that would have immediately tried to feel her up; on the contrary, he kept his hands away from any uncomfortable positions.

"So, Stephanie," Derek smiled, "Are you here with friends?"

Stephanie was momentarily panicked, until she saw Lester, who stood in the far corner, shake his head.

"No," she said convincingly. "I'm a loner, I guess."

Derek laughed, not a mocking one, but a beautiful, musical laugh.

"Well," he said cheerfully, "That makes two of us."

Stephanie was beginning to wonder if she was with the right guy. This man had still not tried in any way to touch her unappropriately, he was actually being polite.

"Are you from around here?" Stephanie asked him.

He shifted positions as the song changed from a fast song to a slow one. He wrapped his arms around her, leaving his hands to rest easily on her mid-back.

"You could say that," He laughed, again, not mocking. "Are you?" His face was politely curious, as were his eyes.

"Not exactly," Stephanie said smoothly. He grinned at her, then pulled away, but took her hand in his.

"Well, Ms. Stephanie, would you like to join me in a few more refreshments?" His eyes stared into hers, and she shivered, but not out of fear.

"Okay." She allowed him to lead her back.

Stephanie sat down on a bar stool, watching him closely. He watched her just as closely as he sat beside her.
"Do you see that man in the corner?" he muttered into her ear. Stephanie turned to lock eyes with Ranger.

"Yes?"

Derek laughed softly. "He's been watching you all night.. I believe you have an admirer, Ms. Plum."

"I guess I-" Stephanie cut off quickly.

"Wait a minute, how did yo-"

She fell forward to the floor, obviously unconscious, as chaos erupted around her.


Review. Now.

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