THAT MIAMI GLOW
Ranger POV
Chapter 13: W
oOo
With a smile I recalled that special, momentous day as I was sitting in my Trenton office, admiring my wedding ring which Stephanie had specially chosen. It was rather unique with the dark beaten titanium alongside that contrasting edge of rose gold. I had cleared my desk and packed my things into boxes for the final move to Miami so I was just contemplating anything and everything.
Life is good. Tank remarked how happy I was and that he had never seen me smile so much. We both knew why that was. Reflecting once again, I leaned back in my desk chair and grinned. Stephanie. Mrs Stephanie Manoso. What a lucky bastard I am. My thoughts drifted back to another night of celebration not so long ago, before our Miami vacation.
It was while we were celebrating our first decade of operations, ten years since we established Rangeman, and recalling the highlights of our first decade, and some of the lows. The banter was lively and animated. I was watching Stephanie as she interacted so easily with the Rangeman team, our Rangeman family, as she listened intently to the formative days of our company. First in Miami, then we expanded to Atlanta and Boston before we established roots here in Trenton nearly five years ago. She had seen that single office once, briefly, while she was learning the ropes of bounty hunting 101, during our Professor Higgins and Eliza period. It was just before the purchase of the Haywood building which was having major renovations and a major fit out.
We had booked a new fusion restaurant, far from the Burg, and had the balcony to ourselves, with our Rangeman team on a long table, including Ella and Luis. They were a vital part of Rangeman. The balcony overlooked a private courtyard at the rear of the restaurant, which looked ideal for summer al fresco dining. Here we could make our speeches without bothering other guests. We were not the quietest patrons but we were happy and enthusiastic with lots of hearty laughter.
Part of the celebrations was acknowledging a new lucrative account. Not only had Stephanie successfully persuaded the owner of a thriving jewellery business to consider Rangeman for their security, which included the shop and the design workshop, she also convinced them to consider and review their home security. This subsequently led to their holiday house by the shore. Her skills with engaging clients are an asset to us. His wife was pleased with her suggestions after reviewing their home. Stephanie recognises those essential aspects that help make women feel safe in their own home.
My eyes had been tracking Stephanie while she moved in and out of her Merry Men while we stood with pre dinner drinks. Platters of starters were going around. Stephanie looked stunning in a shimmering dark blue dress with matching heels. Her eyes sparkled. Watching her interact so easily with her Merry Men made me smile. She has won their respect and their hearts, and they would do anything for her. Likewise, she would do anything for her Merry Men. They had her back and they trusted her with having their backs after proving her worthiness with all the training and fieldwork. With her natural ease and charm, she has accepted each and every one of them. The impact she has had on each and every one of us is quite remarkable. Her connection with Hector was the most surprising. He was the most protective of her, other than me. After a circuit, she came beside me giving me a knock out smile, which I couldn't help but return, with a chaste kiss.
"You look beautiful, Babe," I whispered into her ear as I nibbled her ear lobe just a tad.
"Thanks, Carlos. You scrub up alright, too," she chuckled. "It's nice to see everyone in something other than black. I like this deep burgundy on you. It's a good look."
She leaned into me as she sipped her first margarita, my arm going around her shoulder so easily. As we sat down in preparation for our main meal, I made the speeches, short and concise. We toasted Rangeman with a loud "HOOAH!" and a lot of clinking of beer bottles and glasses. Tank, Lester, Bobby and I were the start up team in Miami. Most of the others came on board here in Trenton, soon recruited after or between their deployments. Hector was a primary starter especially with all the IT and electronic networks and computer systems. He was a wizard with all the technology, ably assisted by Silvio, Luis and Manny. It was a massive undertaking and I acknowledged our pride and the company's success to their dedication and expertise, which was met with a resounding, "HOOAH!"
It was a great night, great food and great company. I had arranged transportation so that no one was going to be driving under the influence. Everyone could relax and enjoy letting their hair down and just celebrate.
Recalling that special night I had to laugh how it was a very rare occasion when I was not aware of my surroundings. Stephanie was sipping from a salt-encrusted glass of margarita, her smiling blue eyes holding me captive as they watched me over the rim. Those blue eyes. Those long lashes. Her pretty wispy curls around her face. Those lips. That radiant smile. I was mesmerised.
When dessert came it was a difficult yet uncomfortable experience, but obviously arousing, with Stephanie thoroughly enjoying the taste sensations with such uninhibited relish, as she hummed and moaned at the decadence of her molten chocolate lava cake. All the men smiled indulgently, some shaking their heads.
"Carlos. You need to taste this! It is so … OH! SO scrumptiously delicious," she mumbled with a portion in her mouth while pointing animatedly down at her dessert with her spoon.
Before I could resist she had a spoonful in my mouth, grinning at me, nodding her head with a huge smile. Yes, it was decadently delicious, and very rich. We had decided that tonight was not a temple night.
"Mmm, you're right. Delicious." Her smile was vibrant and glowing with delight.
I fed her a spoonful of my flan and she approved, humming and licking her lips wickedly. I was so smitten with her. I loved her. I was in love with her. I knew she loved me too. So, I said the first thing that came to mind.
"You know, we should get married, Babe. What do you reckon?" I remarked quite casually.
The table was suddenly very quiet, but my eyes were only on Stephanie's wide bright blue eyes as she smiled at me. I knew we had a captive audience as they watched us with bated breath.
"Are you proposing to me, Carlos?" She grinned mischievously. Her coy smile was so captivating.
I took her hands and looked at her intently, ignoring my men as they leaned in closer.
"Yes. I am. Stephanie, Babe, will you marry me?" I said with greater conviction.
"Yeah, otherwise he'll have to leap off that balcony!" taunted Lester. Tank quickly upsided him into silence, immediately followed by a second one from her partner Cal.
"Yes," she said quietly, "Yes, I will marry you, Carlos." Her smile was glorious. Such joy.
Well, the entire balcony erupted in happy boisterous cheers. Crazy men jumping around.
I smiled broadly and took her lips in a deep and tantalising kiss. It was a delicious kiss filled with promise … and chocolate. I kissed her again, my hands holding her face on each side, as we were surrounded by the men whooping and whistling. Tank ordered some champagne to officially celebrate in style with a heartfelt toast, and more beer. I have never seen my 2IC quite so emotional. He was misty-eyed as he spoke on behalf of all the men expressing his happiness and joy for us.
There were more rousing cheers and a lot of clinking of glasses.
"About fucking time!"
That was said a lot, with laughter and genuine well-wishing.
"Yeah! About time you got your head outa your ass!"
Lots of chuckles and nodding heads, as they all concurred with that comment.
Funnily enough, I had actually planned to propose to her on a quiet evening when we were alone, in a different manner, somewhere romantic and more special. But I just blurted it out, thinking out loud, just like Stephanie is known to do. No matter.
I had been carrying the ring with me for the last few weeks, waiting for the right moment. I opened the box and she was stunned with the Asscher cut aquamarine, with three marquis diamonds set on each of the shoulders, with some smaller diamonds, set in white gold on twin bands. Placing it on her ring finger, I kissed it reverently before another kiss to her lovely lips. Her eyes were glistening.
The blue of the aquamarine reminded me of her love of the ocean and the peace it brought to her. But most of all, it was the colour, a stunning blue. I had considered a diamond, even a sapphire, but the radiance and light of the aquamarine just held more appeal, just like her beautiful blue eyes. Blue stones symbolised honesty and loyalty, eternal love and universal harmony. I discovered that aquamarines were an expression of courage, openness, and everlasting love. It embodies purity and vitality, so, it was an easy choice.
The men were very pleased for us, with plenty of hugs and a few kisses for Stephanie, and hearty back slaps and handshakes for me. Ella embraced us both together and then admired the ring.
"So unique. So special. So perfectly Stephanie," she said. "You have exquisite taste, Carlos."
Stephanie and I decided to leave early and let the men continue celebrating and go to a nightclub if that's how the evening was to unfold for them. In the meantime, Tank had ordered a special limousine, so we could leave to celebrate in private and consummate our betrothal. It was a wonderful memorable night, the icing on the cake. Mm-mm.
I smiled at the memory. Stephanie moved in with me before the end of that week. We didn't announce it to the world, we wanted to keep it private and only share it with the people who mattered the most to us. They were all right there, with us at Rangeman.
Now, waking up with Stephanie snuggled against or on top of me, is just so wonderful. I love waking up with her sleepy warmth wrapped around me. Going to bed together is another fantastic sensation. Yes, we are active lovers, but there are times when we just snuggle and say very little, relishing and savouring what we have and how special it is.
LovingStephanie as much as I do is easy but I would never take that for granted. We connect on such a high plane as I have never experienced before. Every day is refreshing and exciting. Sometimes I never know what to expect with her, but no longer with the reckless abandon of her early days as a novice bounty hunter. We make sure to have special alone time and incorporate date nights and dancing. Sometimes it's with the guys but mostly on our own. Sometimes we choose to stay in and just chill together. Our lives are busy and down time is important. Sharing it with someone so special is very rewarding.
Since Stephanie loved Miami so much, we made the move, a couple of weeks after that unforgettable dinner disaster at the Plum house. She notified her grandmother and her father of our departure. That's all.
Before leaving Trenton, we made a surprise visit to see my parents to share our exciting news. They were both beyond ecstatic. Stephanie was welcomed with wide open arms. Such a totally different reception and really wonderful. My mother wanted to have a family celebration so we indulged her and promised on our next visit, when she was able to coordinate them all together. It would be a double celebration by then, of course.
Before we departed, another special celebration was essential to announce the new changes for Rangeman Trenton at the morning meeting. It was the perfect opportunity to officially confirm the new CEOs for Trenton, Cal and Hal. The promotions list also included the new core team of Ram, Vince and Woody. Mighty cheers and lots of congratulatory back slapping.
I had already informed the Trenton staff of our intentions to head to Miami, where it all begun for us. Some of the Miami staff were keen to change location and a couple from Boston personnel also came on board, so the numbers were still balanced, including some new recruits. The staff recruitment had gone well with all those earlier interviews which led up to this big momentous change.
Leaving Cal and Hal as joint CEOs of Rangeman Trenton, was well-received. This enabled Tank, Bobby, Lester and Hector to move back to Miami where it all began. Manny also joined us. They were ready for the change and were keen to establish themselves there, living in a private condo, with Rangeman security of course.
Hector chose to stay a little longer in the north with my blessing. His devious grin said a lot about the man I have known since our teenage years. He and Hal lead the Pursuit of the Motherfucker, JoBlow. Upon his return to Miami, he reported how things went down, and how unexpectedly down they did suddenly go.
"Hal coordinated the teams, while I tracked his position. Each time he had a stopover, a new tracker was placed, just in case he found any of them. They made sure he knew we were tracking him, with an obvious one, just to fuck with him."
I nodded in approval.
"Hell yeah!" chuckled Manny and Lester together.
"We tracked Morelli's truck to a diner across the border from Pennsylvania into West Virginia. We were the team to tag after Zip and Zero peeled off at the Pennsylvania border. They had followed the fucker back through Maryland but then he took a sharp deviation north and then west again. Delaware looked like his initial destination, but something changed his mind. That's when we tagged them at West Virginia."
So, the fuckwit was putting more distance between his current position and Trenton, New Jersey. It seems he took Frank's words to heart, looking over his shoulder. He could no longer hide behind his badge now. I wonder if he had a destination in mind? I'm curious to see what kind of work he would seek. Hector continued, a twinkle in his eye. Tank, Lester, Bobby, Manny and Stephanie all leaned in closer. This has got to be good.
"While Morelli filled up at the pump, we went inside to order a late afternoon snack, a wedge, and some coffee to go, sitting in a booth with a good view of the scene outside. Our black SUV was in the car park, not hidden, but not too obvious either. He briefly scanned the car park but was intent on getting inside. After paying for his fuel, he then went to use the facilities. Looking outside, we noticed two old silver-haired bikers approach his truck. They were not bikies, but had significant tattoos which Hal recognised as Vets insignias, which were also on their leather jackets. Old war Vets. Special Forces."
Hector chuckled as he waggled his eyebrows. Oh. Now that is an interesting turn of events. Hector smirked and went on. Frank must have been a Ranger, too.
"They'd watched Morelli arrive as they sat by the diner front window before going outside with their coffees, and then waited on their bikes. As Morelli went inside, we watched as one of them walked up to Morelli's truck and placed a note under his windscreen wiper. They finished their coffee while sitting astride their motorbikes and waited calmly."
"Oh my God. Really? I wonder what it said?" Stephanie whispered full of curiosity.
"Morelli was unaware of all this because while placing his order at the main counter, he had his back to the scene unfolding outside. The asshole was up to his usual tricks though, chatting up the waitress who was instantly taken with him. So, he was distracted."
Stephanie rolled her eyes.
"Hal grinned broadly at me as he got up with his coffee. Of course, we went outside, to read the note. We couldn't resist a peek. Returning it under the wiper blade, smirking, we made a respectful salute with a knowing grin to the Vets sitting on their bikes. They nodded. It seems they knew who we were."
"Hooah!" Hal said clearly to them.
"Well?! What did the note say?" Stephanie was bursting with the need to know. Hector tells a good story.
"We know where you are, and it's still not far enough away! FoF. Not what we expected. It wasn't Fuck off Fucker, but it may as well have been. FoF, was Friends of Frank!"
Everyone chuckled at this. Tank rubbed his big hands in delight. Frank obviously had friends in many places.
"We ordered another coffee to go, and watched, waiting for Morelli to become aware of his surroundings. As he took a hearty bite of his sandwich, we gave him a friendly wave as we were leaving. It took him a moment to recognise us, not being in Rangeman black, and he visibly gulped.
"I'll take my order to go," he said hastily to the chatty waitress, grabbing his coffee and sandwich. He faltered in his step as he saw the note. He glared at us and we just shrugged. When he read the note, he paled as the two bikers drove up close to his truck. They gave him the universal sign with two fingers to their eyes then pointing one at the douche, you know the one, "We are watching you", before they peeled out of the carpark heading back east. It appears he lost his appetite as he tossed the sandwich in the bin nearby."
"Damn. Wish I had been there to see that go down," Bobby muttered.
"It was getting darker. Morelli was speeding away, obviously distracted, still heading west, his headlights on ... not seeing the deer, right in front of his truck, until it was too late. It was a huge stag and neither stood a chance. This part of West Virginia is notorious for deer and other wildlife on the roads, especially before dusk. We saw the collision and then his truck swerved and rolled after hitting a tree. It did not look good."
"Well. Shit. That was not a nice way to go."
"Yeah. At least we don't have to worry about him anymore, Beautiful."
A swim was called for and some lunch, to purge those downers away.
The funeral notice was brief. A private funeral, immediate family only.
Helen had no one to bail her out, so she remained in custody until her hearing. Evidently, after her arraignment, she had moved in with Angie Morelli. She had to undergo anger management and Alcoholics Anonymous sessions or else she would go into a rehab centre or more jail time. She didn't last long as she repeatedly tried to drive despite having the breathalyser unit attached to her vehicle. Vandalising said equipment is frowned upon. Helen is now a resident in a locked psychiatric ward of a local facility as she failed the anger management and was so disruptive that they were concerned about her subversive state of mind. Once again, she became violent, leading to another arrest and now her new residential care in a lovely locked ward for the insane and delirious.
Valerie discovered what went down and was aghast at her mother's psychotic scheming and her over the top Morelli obsession. When Grandma explained about Helen's infatuation with Morelli senior, Valerie immediately went for a DNA test, to check if she was actually a Plum. Results are pending.
Frank moved away from Trenton to South Carolina, close to his two brothers. He bought a lakeside cottage with his money, using the extra he had put aside. He had shrewdly invested money to keep away from Helen's slush fund. He knew she had often squandered her housekeeping. Smart man.
oOo
We now live in Miami where I had bought a luxurious waterside property, with a pier for a boat, and we lived there, happily. I made sure to take Stephanie back to Hawaii for a holiday making beautiful, new, lasting memories. Julie came to visit and it was great to spend special time with her. Many fun times were spent together on the yacht, and sometimes with our friends. In the guest cottage, Ella and Luis resided. When Stephanie and I suggested that to them as an option, they jumped at it with wide open arms.
We did go back to Newark, just for a visit as promised, to share our double news with the Manoso family. Mama and Papi were stunned but elated. The family celebration was festive and truly wonderful. Stephanie was loved by my family, and she enjoyed being part of family that loves and laughs unconditionally.
We had decided that semi-retirement was appropriate. Rangeman Miami was a good fit and it ran efficiently. Our plan was not to alter or mess with the core team there. We were available for consultations and support, which included Tank, Lester, Bobby and I. Some of the Miami team was recruited for Trenton, which balanced the numbers well with Hector and Manny. Silvio requested Stephanie's expertise with deep searches and that appealed to her, as a consultant.
Since we had so much fun in the Caribbean, I decided another week's vacation in one of those over the water bungalows, with our own plunge pool, was a great reward after our big move. We had easy access down a few stairs to the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Stephanie climbed out of the plunge pool and plopped herself on the lounger with a happy sigh. She looked radiant. She glowed. The extra vitamin Ds and the peace and serenity we shared was very deserving. Miami really agreed with her, with both of us. I know I was responsible for that glow since she always does after our playtime in the bedroom. And that beautiful bump? Yeah, I was responsible for that too. I was ecstatically happy when we made that discovery, we both were. That was another unexpected, but not surprising reason for that unmistakable glow.
oOo
The End
What can I say? My Muse did get carried away. What started as a one shot is now done and dusted with 13 chapters. OMG!
I hope you enjoyed this journey. It has been fun to write.
Stay safe, keep well and stay connected.
Stand by for a new story very soon.
Thank you for all the wonderful reviews, follows and favourites, and guest reviews, especially JB.