Author's note: All the usual disclaimers apply – I don't own the show or the characters, only the words on this page. As always, I'd love to hear what you think.
This is set in Season 2, and takes place after episode 11 'The day I met the devil'. There are some specific minor references to other Season 2 episodes ('Knight lasts forever', 'The man in the secret room', and 'A bullet named fate'), and probably any number of minor references to other episodes in both seasons. As usual with me, though, there are also references to events which took place in some of my other stories. And based on the screening dates for Season 2, it made sense to place this story at Christmas.
Allies
by BHP
The lights in the cabin were dim. The manufactured twilight hid a multitude of sins. Or it should have.
Even so, Magnum could have described every inch of the space – and the people settled in it, bruises and all – as though standing on an open plain in broad daylight. Most especially, the bruises and scrapes, injuries sustained while helping him. Saving him. Again.
He shifted slightly in his seat, thankful that Higgins had asked Robin Masters for the use of his plane for the trip his friends had made to the Triple Frontier. This plane had almost all the comforts of home, with its only similarities to normal airline travel being that it flew and had two pilots. And after the last twenty-four hour stretch, the added comfort was a blessing. Not to mention that flying commercial would have raised far too many questions that they would all prefer to leave unasked and unanswered – and that was just about their appearance.
That thought made Magnum grin slightly. Trekking through the jungle would have been bad enough, but after the helicopter had been blown to smithereens by Ivan, they were all sporting rips in their clothing and minor scratches on various exposed areas of skin. And Higgins had turned an interesting shade of pink from the harsh sunlight. A fact they all knew better than to mention, especially now that the sunburn had faded, leaving behind a scattering of freckles across her nose and cheeks. He thought the freckles looked cute, but he'd learned enough about Juliet to know that saying that would end painfully for him.
It had been a long trip back to civilisation. They'd managed to find Shammy's wheelchair sixteen feet from the destroyed helicopter. Luckily it had tangled in a thick mat of vines blanketing the spaces between a small stand of trees, and even dented it had still been serviceable. It had been a struggle to make their way to one of the dirt tracks that criss-crossed the jungle, but they succeeded in the end. Then fate had smiled on them, in the person of an elderly local man, on his way to market and with just enough room on the back of his dilapidated truck for six bedraggled people and one wheelchair. From his questions, they could see he'd assumed they were survivors of a car accident, and it had been easier to let him believe his assumptions.
One goat and five crates of chickens had kept them company on the trip, setting Rick off on a string of Chick Norris and Beaker jokes, until TC had threated to turn the two birds into Sunday dinner when they all got back to Honolulu. Then Higgins had started with comments about how Magnum had best understand that he was not to adopt this goat as well. All he could do was roll his eyes and laugh.
That laughter had died when Rick had been forced to do some very fast talking to the man he'd borrowed the helicopter from, with returning the merchandise that Shammy had saved from the explosion being the only reason Rick survived that meeting. Well, that and promising the guy that all debts were paid, in full, and that Rick would never ask him for anything again.
The vehicles that his friends had arrived in were thankfully right where they'd been parked, so the trip back to Ciudad del Este had been somewhat easier and quicker. Although they'd all spent most of the time checking that Ivan wasn't trailing them.
Boarding Robin's jet and finally being airborne brought the first true relaxation he'd known in a week. Probably since Captain Greene had called him up for reserve duty. That fact that the mission had been a lie, just a way to set him up for Ivan's uses, brought a quick stab of pain – for himself and for Greene. They might have had their disagreements over the years, but he couldn't blame the man for choosing his son over Magnum. 'Ohana always came first.
He listened to the steady sound of the plane's engines for a minute, relishing the security the sound offered. He supposed Ivan could shoot down a plane if he really wanted to, but he suspected that Ivan was the sort of person who'd prefer to do his killing in a more … hands-on … manner.
His eyes tracked around the cabin again, checking on his friends. There were any number of things they needed to talk about, but they'd all been so exhausted by the time they'd boarded the plane that their only thought had been to get some sleep. Rick was moving restlessly in his sleep, a sure sign that he'd be awake soon; which meant that TC would wake up around the same time. Magnum didn't how they did it, but on missions, they'd always woken up within minutes of each other.
Shammy was still sleeping, as was Katsumoto. And the fact that the detective had come all the way to South America to save him was a source of wonder to Magnum. Sure, he'd long since put Gordon into the same category as the rest of his 'ohana – which meant that he'd do anything he had to, if it meant keeping Gordon safe and well. He'd just never expected the other man to feel the same way, or to show it so spectacularly.
Higgins looked as though she was sleeping too, but Magnum let his gaze linger on her for a long moment. She was too still, with an air of being poised to leap into action at a second's notice. Two years ago, she'd have fooled him, but now he knew better.
"Juliet." His whisper was designed to carry without disturbing the others. When she didn't move, he smothered a laugh. "I know you're awake."
Her eyes popped open immediately, lasering into him. She looked annoyed at being caught out, but he fancied there was a dash of respect buried deep in that penetrating gaze as well. He felt he deserved that respect; catching Higgins out meant he had to keep all his skills sharp. He thought that perhaps he should thank her for that sometime.
"Aside from the news about Captain Greene, did you all learn anything more about Ivan?"
"No." She shook her head, tucking one loose wisp of golden hair behind her ear as she answered. "I'll send out some feelers when we get home, maybe call in a few favours I'm stilled owed."
"Are you sure you want to use favours for this?" Magnum appreciated the offer, but who knew when Juliet might need to call those debts in for herself.
"They're owed to me." Her tone turned sharp. "And I will call them in when I need to. I believe an attack on my family counts."
"Yeah, well." Magnum shrugged one shoulder, unable to hold eye contact as he considered what Higgins had just said. They were all a family, but it wasn't something any of them felt the need to say out loud very often. He winced slightly at the range of aches that his movement had raised in his back and chest. "We're all okay. Seems a shame to waste them for something I got us –"
"Here we go again." Juliet's heavy sigh cut him off, accompanied by an eye roll. "You know we've had this discussion before. I would hope that, at some point, the gist of all those previous conversations would penetrate that thick skull of yours."
"I think I'm offended." Magnum tried to sound annoyed, but knew he sounded more amused than upset.
"Listen very carefully, if you please." Higgins leaned forward to make her point. "Once more, not every bad thing that happens is your fault. Least of all this fiasco. You bear no blame in this."
"She's right." Rick's quiet statement had Magnum's head flicking to the side, where he found both Rick and TC wide awake and following the whole conversation.
"TM, you didn't know." TC's voice was a quiet rumble of support.
"And yet, here we are." Magnum indicated the plane with a flick of his hand.
"Because you did your duty. You followed your Captain Greene's orders." That firm statement had all their heads swinging around sharply, only to find Katsumoto sitting bolt upright in his seat, sharp eyes tracking them all.
"It's not on you that the Captain lied." Shammy added his view, and Magnum had to smile when the other man carried on speaking. "It's not the first time the higher-ups have lied to the grunts, now is it?"
"I believe they call it 'need to know'." Rick cut in, causing TC to thump him gently on the shoulder.
"Now, Orville, they'd be upset to hear you say that. You know they only ever had our best interests at heart." TC said seriously, face blank. He managed to hold the expression for all of two seconds before collapsing in laughter. After a second, everyone else started to laugh as well.
Magnum laughed too, eyes ranging over all his friends. He was so lucky to have them all. Especially when things like this happened. He leaned back in the chair and hissed quietly when a spot on his back sparked with pain.
"Jules, can you find me the first aid kit?" Rick's request had Magnum sending him a sharp look, which his friend ignored. "Our friend there is looking a little … rough around the edges."
"I'm fine." Magnum offered, waving off the attention.
"Sure you are." Rick simply snorted, while Higgins quickly pulled the kit out of one of the bulkhead cupboards. Magnum turned an appealing look on TC, Shammy and Katsumoto, but all three just stared impassively back at him.
"What about the rest of you?" Magnum figured an attack was a good defence in this case. "We were all near that helo."
"We're all okay." Rick answered for everyone. "And if we weren't, we'd be smart enough to say so. Unlike some people I could name."
"Now I am offended." Magnum folded his arms, barely stifling the yelp that wanted to make itself heard as he pressed too hard on a bruise.
"Nice try." Higgins smiled. "But we all saw that flinch. And we're not going to be distracted, deflected or otherwise derailed by you this time."
"Rick," TC spoke up, "pass me some gauze and disinfectant, would you?"
"TC? You okay?" The worry in Rick's tone made TC nod quickly.
"Yeah, I really am fine. Unlike some people." He shot a look at Magnum, then took the offered piece of gauze from Rick and wiped it over a minor scratch on his forearm. "But TM actually does have a point this time. We did all collect some scratches."
"I'll take one too." Higgins spoke up next, following TC's example. She quickly wiped across a collection of small scrapes on her elbow and hand. By the time Rick, Shammy and Katsumoto had each treated their own injuries, Magnum felt foolish for being so stubborn.
"Okay, okay. I get it." He muttered with a smile. "Let's all be adults, shall we?" The barb was aimed at Higgins, who merely sent him a sunny, smug grin as an answer.
"Let's." Rick smiled broadly. "Off with the shirt, bud."
"I'll bet you say that to all the guys." The instant look of horror on Rick's face, and TC's resulting chuckle, was almost enough to cancel out the pain from stiff muscles as Magnum moved to pull off his shirt.
The silence which followed made Magnum uncomfortable. He'd known there were bruises under the shirt, but they were somewhat darker than he'd expected. And more extensive than he'd thought. Still, he knew that nothing was broken. Experience had taught him exactly what broken bones felt like, and this wasn't even close.
"Pass me something to clean this, Rick." Magnum waved a hand towards his face and Rick passed over a piece of disinfectant-soaked gauze. The sting made Magnum catch his breath for a second, muscles going tense before relaxing again.
"Okay." Rick's voice was soft, dropping into the soothing tone he always used when checking Magnum over. "Now that you've taken care of that, let's start with the back and work our way around."
"While you do that, I will see if I can find some ice in the galley." Juliet's actions matched the words. "That cheekbone could do with something cold, I think."
A few minutes later, she returned with a plastic bag filled with ice cubes. She wrapped the bag in a towel and offered the pack to Magnum.
Magnum offered her a smile in thanks, then closed his eyes and held the pack to his cheek. The relief was immediate and welcome.
He felt Rick's hands move carefully over all the aches on his back, then move on to feeling over the bruises on his chest. Given how many times he'd broken ribs, he couldn't really fault Rick for wanting to be sure there was no serious damage this time. He twitched a few times when Rick hit particularly painful spots, but he could tell it was nothing more than deep bruising.
"Okay, you win." Rick's voice was amused, and Magnum opened his eyes to find his friend's smiling face right in front of him. "I hate to agree with you, but you really are fine. Just this once. If this really is all the damage."
"See? I told you so." Magnum smiled back. The earnest look in Rick's eyes had him admitting more than he intended. "The only other damage is bruised knees. Ivan's mercs shoved me down a few times."
"When were you planning to tell me that?" Rick asked.
"Never." Magnum's admission was sheepish. He lifted one shoulder as Rick glared at him. "It's just bruises, I swear."
"But they still hurt, I'll bet." Rick tossed the comment right back at him.
"Yeah. I'll admit that much." Magnum ducked his head in agreement. "But it's really nothing serious. Nothing that a few days rest can't fix."
"And painkillers." Rick dug into the first aid kit again. He pulled out a bottle of over-the-counter painkillers and tipped two into one hand to offer them to Magnum. Magnum wanted to argue but the look on Rick's face had him biting back the words and accepting the pills, quickly swallowing them down.
"You will rest. We will hold you to that." Higgins was serious now. "I'm sure the lads would be willing to lend a hand."
"You win." Horror filled Magnum's words, only half of it faked. "I'll rest, I swear. Just don't tell them to watch me. Not again."
Laughter filled the cabin, as everyone finally let the tension of the last few days fade away. A few moments later, Higgins tipped her head towards the galley. "Anyone fancy something to eat?"
Magnum smiled as Rick shot to his feet to follow Higgins. TC and Shammy followed them, leaving Katsumoto and Magnum alone. Magnum met the detective's gaze and waited a long moment before breaking the silence.
"Thank you." He lifted a hand to stop Katsumoto's answer. "I know you didn't have to come, Gordon. And that you've got a kid to consider, as well. So, thank you. For coming, and everything else."
"You came to find me when I went missing. Back at the coffee plantation" Katsumoto's words were earnest, heartfelt. "You didn't have to, but you did." A tiny smile flashed across Katsumoto's serious countenance for a second. "And yes, I have a kid. One I need to set an example for, of the kind of man I'd like him to be. What kind of example would I set if I stayed safe at home and did nothing, when I was able to help?"
Magnum considered that carefully, knowing that there was more to Katsumoto's actions than just being a good example for Dennis. The detective was a careful man, in both his actions and his words. What he'd just said was the equivalent of admitting that Magnum was as important in his life, as Katsumoto was in Magnum's life. That Magnum was a friend, even if he'd never actually said the word out loud.
"What did you tell Lieutenant Kamila about this trip?" Magnum worried that Gordon's actions could have damaged his career; could maybe even end it prematurely.
"Nothing." Katsumoto said quietly. "I'm on sick leave."
"He believes that?" Disbelief coloured the question.
"Why not?" Katsumoto's shrug seemed a little too casual.
"I thought you said he wasn't happy with you." Magnum ticked off incidents on his fingers. "There was the time you punched Tony Zhao, then the whole thing with the coral smugglers, and then last month's complaint from that doctor at the hospital. Didn't you say you were facing a disciplinary hearing?"
"Well, yeah. I am." Katsumoto had gone still, his answer barely a murmur. "But I hardly ever take sick leave, so I'm sure it'll be fine."
"And if it's not? If Kamila wants proof?"
"Who asks for proof of the flu?" Katsumoto looked away for a second, then met Magnum's eyes. "I'll deal with that if it happens. I can't change what he thinks, anyway, so I'm not sure there's any point worrying about it now."
"Okay." Magnum conceded the argument with a nod. "In that case, shall we get our share of the snacks away from Rick?" He eased himself upright, feeling stiff muscles protest, then headed for the galley. Katsumoto just smiled and followed his lead.
An hour later, everyone was settled in their seats again, sleeping soundly while the plane headed from Panama City to Los Angeles.
Magnum watched his friends sleep, tracking their route in his head. They had one more refuelling stop in Los Angeles, then a straight flight back to Honolulu. Probably another fifteen hours at least, maybe more depending on the weather. His gaze rested on Gordon for a long moment, thinking of everything the man had risked to join this rescue mission.
He'd promised himself, when he and Katsumoto had driven the Ferrari to Diamond Head, that he'd keep Katsumoto clear of the trouble that seemed to follow Magnum around. He'd not done a very good job of that this time, and that worried him.
Perhaps there was something he could do to make sure that any repercussions were aimed squarely at him, rather than at any of his friends. Especially Katsumoto, as Kamila was already keeping a sharp watch on the detective.
Nothing came to mind, though, and after a while, Magnum resigned himself to waiting for enlightenment to strike. He shoved the problem into his subconscious, hoping he'd wake up with a solution. He shifted slightly to find a more comfortable spot in his seat, then checked once more that all his friends were safe and asleep before he let himself drop into a dreamless sleep.
MPI-MPI-MPI
The late-afternoon sun was shining brightly when the plane landed in Honolulu.
The plane taxied slowly to the private hangar at the far end of the airport property, easing to a halt just outside the wide-open doors. As the engines wound down, Higgins gathered her belongings and stacked them next to the first aid kit from the bulkhead cupboard. She was taking that with her as well, to restock the supplies that they'd used on the trip home.
She'd already made a list of everything they'd taken from the galley during the trip. Those supplies would also be replaced the next day. Robin Masters had done them a favour by letting them use the aircraft, and the least she could do was to ensure that everything was restored to pristine condition.
"Right, have we collected all the evidence?" Humour filled the words as she watched the men collecting all the items they'd brought with them.
"Evidence?" Katsumoto asked. His tone was bland, but a spark of laughter flickered in his dark eyes.
"You never know." Higgins shrugged one shoulder, innocence personified. "Who knows what a cleaning crew might think of the state of the galley?"
"Is that a dig at my food choices?" Rick asked with a smile.
"I recall someone eating microwaved hot dogs for breakfast, the day we met Shammy." TC laughed, looking over to see a smile on Shammy's face.
"True." Shammy added. "So I'm not really sure you can call them choices."
"Everyone's a critic." Rick muttered.
Higgins just laughed and patted Rick on the shoulder. She turned slightly to see how Magnum was doing, finding the man upright and moving, albeit slowly.
"Thomas?" She kept her question quiet, aimed just at her partner.
"I'm fine, Juliet." He met her gaze and had the decency to admit his error. "Okay, not fine. But okay, I swear. Just stiff, some aches."
"Acceptable." The word was stern, but she smiled and saw him smile back.
A few minutes later, they'd all split up, heading towards their cars. Katsumoto was the first to drive away, waving one hand out the window as a greeting.
TC, Rick and Shammy headed over to the Island Hoppers van. Rick tossed their bags in the back as TC got Shammy settled in van before loading the wheelchair up as well.
"We'll check in later." Rick's words floated back to Higgins and Magnum as the van slowly drove away.
Higgins headed for the Range Rover, making sure to match her pace to Magnum's slower steps. The man could be truly annoying when minor injuries were involved – he'd whined for a whole afternoon about a paper cut – but when things were more serious, he went silent. Right now, he wasn't saying much, which was a worry.
She slanted a glance sideways, only to find him staring back at her with a tiny smile hovering on his lips. "I'm okay, Higgy. Honestly."
"You've just been rather quiet." Higgins justified her worry, but couldn't resist the opportunity to needle her friend. "Which is always a concern, given some of the hare-brained ideas and plans you come up with when left to your own devices."
"I'm hurt." Magnum tried to look offended, but she could see he was really amused. "I'm just thinking, that's all."
"And as I just said," Higgins raised one eyebrow in challenge, "that would be the reason for my concern."
"Funny." Magnum shot back, laughing.
He lapsed into silence again on the drive back to Robin's Nest, and this time she said nothing. It was just a feeling, some instinct, that was warning her to give him the silence he seemed to need. If he didn't say anything by that evening, she would make sure to ask again. If he tried to be stubborn about it … well, the lads could always lend a hand.
After she'd parked the Range Rover, and they'd each grabbed their bags, Higgins hovered for a moment. Uncertainty wasn't a natural state of being for her, but around Magnum, she frequently found herself unable to choose a course of action. The man himself was no help, simply standing there and staring out at the ocean.
Zeus and Apollo came charging around the corner of the house, coming to a halt in front of her and tilting their heads to the side in delight as she scratched between their ears. Both dogs swung their heads to stare at Magnum, who'd yet to notice their presence. Higgins could only blame that lapse on distraction or exhaustion.
She softly ordered the lads into the house and looked out over the ocean herself. She wondered sometimes what Magnum saw out there, why he spent so long out in the water. She had a number of theories, but the one she kept coming back to was the idea that being in the water gave him the same sort of peace she found in yoga.
Twilight was edging in now, muting the bright colours of the day. The waves on the sea were taking on darker hues of purple and deep green, while the clear sky promised a glorious night for stargazers, but she doubted that she'd be awake long enough to see them herself.
"Right, then. I'm for a shower." She spoke quietly, then turned to head into the house. "Followed by a proper meal and a good night's sleep. I shall see you in the morning, Thomas."
"Actually, could you do something for me first? Please, Juliet?" Magnum's request was quiet, almost hesitant.
"I … of course." Higgins couldn't refuse. Magnum so rarely asked anyone to do anything for him. He was always asking for favours, of course, but nearly every single one of those requests was related to a case, or was to help a client, or a friend, or someone in some sort of trouble. When he asked for himself, she simply couldn't say no. Especially knowing that he would only ever ask his family to do something that was purely for him.
"Careful, Higgy. You don't know what I want yet." A gentle smile accompanied the words, and she smiled back.
"Doesn't matter." His eyes showed how her admission had shocked him. "You would do the same for me."
"I would." He nodded.
"Come on, then." She headed into the main house and went straight to her office. Magnum trailed behind her, face pensive.
"I assume we need the laptop." She set it up on her desk, while Magnum simply nodded and hovered nearby. Moments later, she looked up expectantly at him. "What am I doing?
"Hacking the HPD database. Please."
"Hacking HPD?" Higgins managed to keep her composure but had to add a comment. "I'm not voiding your speeding fines."
"I would never ask you to." Magnum actually laughed at what she'd said, despite the serious look on his face. "I just need to know something, and I know Gordy won't tell me."
"Okay." Higgins nodded. "But shouldn't you respect his decision?"
"Not this time." Magnum shook his head firmly. "I know he's got a disciplinary hearing coming up. I don't know when, and I know he won't tell me if I ask."
"Yes, I remember him saying last month at the hospital that he expected to be facing one. So it seems he was right and it did happen." Higgins nodded, fingers flying over the keyboard. "And why do you need to know?"
"Look, he wasn't entirely wrong when he said that I've not been the best influence on him." Magnum sighed. "And now, he took sick leave so that he could come with you guys to find me. That might make things worse for him, if Lieutenant Kamila doesn't believe Gordy's been ill. Which might happen because he's not happy with Gordy right now."
"I'm aware." Higgins agreed, tone sombre.
"And yes, maybe there's nothing I can do." Magnum shrugged. "But if there is something I can do, to help convince his boss that Gordy's just an honest, upstanding guy who let his emotions get away with him a couple of times – I want to do that. But I need to know what sort of time frame I'm working with."
"How will that matter?" Higgins agreed with Magnum's theory in principle, but wanted more clarification.
"Whatever I do, it needs to happen just before the hearing." Magnum offered. Higgins stared at him for a moment, letting ideas percolate until she came to a meaning that made sense.
"You want it to be one of the last things Kamila hears, remembers." Stating the fact got a grin and a nod from Magnum. "You're hoping that will influence his attitude going into the hearing."
"It should." Magnum laughed out loud now. "It always worked with Captain Greene when we'd gone slightly off-book again."
"You devious rascal." Higgins laughed and turned her attention back to the HPD database.
A moment later, she froze, her eyes locked to the screen.
"Thomas." She felt Magnum come alongside her, her shock enough to get him moving. "The hearing, it's tomorrow morning. At eleven."
"He could have missed it altogether." Magnum murmured. "If we'd been held up even once on the way back …"
"I know." Higgins felt off-balance. "And he didn't say a word."
"He wouldn't." Magnum sounded absolutely certain. "That doesn't give me much time."
"You have a plan, then?" Higgins could see how the news worried Magnum and wondered if that was simply because of how little time was left to refine his plan and put it into operation. But his next words shot that hope down in flames.
"No. Not even half a plan." Magnum sighed and shook his head. "I'd better come up with something soon."
Higgins stared at him for a moment, seeing how Magnum's attention had drifted away from her and the office. They'd all slept on the flight home, but she could still feel the effects of the long trip and the time zone changes. She pushed herself to her feet, coming round the corner of the desk to stand next to Magnum. Up close, signs of exhaustion were still clear to see on his face.
"It's too late to worry about it now, Magnum." She rested a hand on his arm, then gave him a gentle push towards the door. "Try to put it out of your mind for tonight. Eat something. Get some sleep. Things will be clearer in the morning."
"I hope so." Magnum sounded despondent, but followed her advice and headed out of the main house. His head down, he walked slowly across the lawn to the guest house. He stopped outside the door and turned to stare out over the ocean again. Five minutes later, he finally went inside and closed the door quietly behind him.
She watched for another long moment, then snapped her fingers gently to call Zeus and Apollo. The two dogs appeared beside her immediately, silent and alert.
"Keep an eye on him, lads." Two heads swivelled in tandem before the dogs headed outside to patrol the estate.
Safe in the knowledge of their guardian presence, Juliet headed upstairs herself.
MPI-MPI-MPI
Solitude was a funny thing, Magnum mused.
It could be a form of torture, something he knew only too well from endless hours spent in the cold depths of the Hole in the Korengal. Or it could be the state he needed most, a way to calm every random thought spinning around in his head. It all depended on whether he'd gone looking for solitude on his own, or had it forced on him at the point of a gun.
He'd taken the surf ski out before dawn, just as the grey pre-dawn light had been creeping into the sky. Paddling had been uncomfortable at first, every muscle in his body telling him that fighting the tide with all those bruises was foolish. But out here beyond the breakers, in sight of Robin's Nest but floating alone on undulating waves, he found true solitude. And some measure of peace.
Exhaustion had helped him sleep the night before, but he'd woken in the dark hours before dawn, thoughts and worries nagging at him. Katsumoto's hearing was this morning, and he knew he bore at least some responsibility for the fact that Katsumoto was facing a disciplinary action at all. A true example of no good deed going unpunished.
He kept coming back to the fact that Katsumoto had taken sick leave to join the rest of his friends on their rescue mission. Something about that kept pricking in his subconscious and suggesting he look at it more closely. But whatever he was supposed to see, to recognise, dangled just out of reach and taunted him.
The sun eased over the horizon, and the light spread slowly over the water. A kaleidoscope of blues and greens swirled to life around him and he let his attention focus on the patterns, following lines of colour that crossed, mingled, and became something new and different with the merging.
When the sun was floating fully in the sky, he turned back towards the beach, paddling slowly with even strokes. As the nose of the surf ski ran onto the pale golden sand of the beach, the nagging feeling in his mind suddenly vanished, replaced with an idea of how he could help Katsumoto. He jumped into the water so that he could drag the surf ski up the sand to well above the tide line, and then stood for a moment, shorts and vest damp while salty water ran down his legs into the warming sand.
He was stunned that it was so simple … yet it was also so obvious that he had to wonder how he hadn't considered it before. Then he shook his head, laughing quietly at his own blindness. It was the perfect solution.
Smiling happily, he crossed the beach, then headed across the lawn. Although it was still early, he planned to get organised and on the road with plenty of time to spare. This was one time he couldn't be late; he couldn't see the hearing starting one minute later than scheduled.
He passed the lanai of the main house, seeing Higgins settled on the wooden decking on one of her brightly-coloured yoga mats. The pink mat complemented the black and pink-patterned yoga pants and top, and he wondered for a second if she deliberately chose a mat to match her outfit. Why else would she have so many mats, in so many colours?
Then he took a long look at her, and winced at the position she'd folded her body into – how could she say that didn't hurt?
He would have taken a step closer, but twin growls stopped him in his tracks. "Higgins?"
"Stay, lads." Two calm words were all it took to make both dogs settle down and do nothing more than fix baleful eyes on Magnum.
"Thanks for that." Magnum paused for a second, trying to find the right words. "About yesterday … what you looked up for me. I've been doing some thinking about how we can help Gordy."
"I have given it some thought as well." Higgins voice was steady, her eyes still closed as she held the position. "And perhaps this is one of those times where the situation would be best served by us taking no action at all, as anything we do may indeed worsen the status quo."
"Are you saying …" Magnum thought back over that statement, "that you think anything I do will make things worse?"
"I believe I just said that." Higgins confirmed.
"Not in English, you didn't." Magnum muttered.
"It's not my fault that your command of English is … defective." At that, Juliet's eyes popped open and she shot Magnum a very amused glance. "But Magnum, this is the man's career we're talking about. We can't jeopardise that, no matter how guilty you feel."
"I never said I was feeling guilty." Magnum's protest sounded hollow even to him.
"You didn't have to." Higgins smiled gently. "But, good intentions aside, we cannot cause more trouble for Gordon."
"That's not my intention, I swear." Magnum was angry that she would even think such a thing. Higgins raised a hand to stop his next words.
"I know that. But sometimes things don't go the way you plan." She shook her head, grinning slightly. "How often do any of our plans go as they should?"
"Well … you may have a point there." Magnum grinned back. "But that's no reason not to try."
"Since you put it that way." Higgins tipped her head to one side and stared unblinkingly at him. Then she slowly eased out of her yoga position into a gentle stretch, before coming gracefully to her feet. "What complicated plan have you come up with this time?"
"The simplest plan in the world." Magnum laughed at the look of shock that filled her face. "I can do simple, you know."
"Oh, let's not even go there." Higgins shot back, laughing too. "But do tell."
"Chicken soup."
"Come again? Your plan is chicken soup?"
"Remember when Ivan's mercs attacked the estate?" Magnum shook his head. "Of course, you do. As I've said before, mind like a steel trap. So, chicken soup."
He waited while Higgins stared at him, clearly considering the idea. Finally she dipped her head once. "I'm actually impressed. Simple, effective, and suitable to the time frame."
"You say that like I never have a good plan." Magnum groused.
"Flying by the seat of your pants does not constitute a plan." One raised eyebrow challenged him to refute the statement. Given that a large number of his plans followed exactly that type of planning, he simply gave in and laughed. Juliet's smile was just a touch smug as she asked, "Does this mean I finally get to find out where you got that soup?"
"Yeah." Magnum nodded and turned to head towards the guest house. "Meet you at the Ferrari at nine, then we can head into town."
"I will see you then." Higgins bent down and began to neatly roll up the yoga mat as Magnum walked away.
MPI-MPI-MPI
Clouds were starting to bunch together over the city as Magnum carefully slotted the Ferrari into a parking space outside the precinct building, making sure that the car was legally parked. The last thing he needed was to get another parking fine, right where Katsumoto's boss would notice.
Higgins hopped out as soon as he killed the engine, reaching back into the car to lift out the container he'd collected from Alani half an hour earlier. He watched her straighten the navy trousers she'd chosen today, paired with a cream blouse covered in tiny navy polka dots. A very business-like outfit.
Funny how their thoughts on clothing had run in parallel this morning, Magnum mused. He'd deliberately chosen black jeans, dark sneakers, and a plain white button-down shirt. Obviously, they were both aiming to get Lieutenant Kamila to see them in a serious light today. Rather than as a nuisance that he tolerated with a bad grace.
"However did you find this place?" Higgins lifted the container slightly in question.
Magnum eased out of the car, leaning back to drop his sunglasses into the cup holder, knowing that it would irritate Higgins. She'd prefer it if he put them in the glove box, where such things belonged, as she was fond of telling him.
"By accident." He smiled at the memory now, although he'd been miserable when he'd first crossed Alani's path.
"The way Alani greeted you did not look accidental." The comment was sharp, although Higgins was smiling. "That woman hugged you like you were her long-lost child, then she scolded you for coming there with bruises. And you just stood there and let her – and agreed that you need to be more careful in future."
"So?" Magnum shrugged one shoulder. "You scold me all the time."
"And you say all the same things to me." Higgins agreed. "But with her, it actually sounds like you mean it."
"I always mean it." Magnum protested. "I would never lie to you about something like that."
"And yet, you keep ending up on the receiving end of temper tantrums from people like Ivan."
"That's not my fault." Magnum laughed now. "I don't go looking for them, or for trouble. Sometimes, it just happens!"
"If you say so." Higgins muttered. "I would beg to differ."
"Anyway," Magnum's tone turned serious now, "to answer your question. I'd only been here for a couple of months. Settling down was … hard. The guys seemed to be getting the hang of it better than I was, I was still waiting for my PI licence to come through, I was trying to find an affordable place to live …"
"And?" Higgins prompted when Magnum's voice trailed off.
"I was renting a room not far from the restaurant at the time, and one day I was walking around the neighbourhood and saw a guy grab this woman's purse and make a run for it. She was old enough to be my grandmother, walking with a stick."
"So you stopped him." Higgins stated.
"Yeah, of course." Magnum carried on. "Turns out the woman was Alani's auntie. She offered me lunch when we'd sorted out the police report and all the other stuff. Next thing I know, I'm telling her my life story and she starts calling me keiki."
"I'm sure that there is far more to that story than you've said." Higgins settled a knowing look on Magnum, sharp enough that he wished he could look away without seeming too obvious about it. She was far too perceptive sometimes. "But we'll leave it at that for the moment."
"Let's do that." Magnum agreed, locking the car and slipping the keys into his pocket. He held out one hand and Higgins placed the container into it. "Now, let's go help Gordy."
The lobby of the precinct was full of people, voices overlapping as every person tried to get their case dealt with ahead of everyone else's. Magnum took one look, smiled at Higgins and headed past the desk, nodding to the officer there in sympathy.
They headed down the corridor to the bullpen, coming round the corner to see Katsumoto at his desk, phone tucked between his shoulder and his ear as he read over a case file. Magnum waited until Katsumoto ended the call before walking to the detective's desk.
Katsumoto looked up, and sighed heavily. "Not now, Magnum."
The words were quiet, and Magnum saw how Katsumoto's eyes flicked quickly towards Lieutenant Kamila's office . The action told Magnum that Katsumoto had played down just how serious the hearing was, letting them all believe that there was nothing to be concerned about.
"Okay, Gordy." The words were quiet, and Magnum caught the slight narrowing of Katsumoto's eyes and knew at once that Kamila must be heading directly towards him. He turned slightly to one side and tipped his head politely as the man arrived at Katsumoto's desk.
"Good morning, Lieutenant."
"Is it?" The question was gruff, the man looking anything but pleased to see Magnum. The man's sharp gaze swept over Magnum's face, taking in the injuries.
"Is there something we should be aware of?" One hand flicked towards Magnum's injured face.
"Not at this time, no, sir." The words were impeccably polite, but Magnum could see the flash of laughter in Juliet's eyes. He couldn't resist the opportunity to mess with the Lieutenant's view of him, even if this wasn't the ideal time.
"Something we will need to be apprised of in the future, then?"
"Definitely not." Magnum said quietly. "It's classified."
The look of disbelief drew a muffled snort of laughter from Higgins, which was quickly disguised as a cough. The lieutenant's eyes swivelled to focus on Higgins for a moment. She nodded, eyes steady, and offered confirmation. "I believe that Captain Greene would be happy to tell you the same thing. It's what he told me, yesterday, when I was trying to get hold of Magnum myself."
"In that case … why are you here?" The question bordered on unfriendly, aimed squarely at Magnum.
Magnum turned his head to look at Katsumoto and spoke directly to his friend. "I got back late last night. Heard from the guys that you've been ill, so I got you this." He placed the container on the corner of Katsumoto's desk.
"And this is?" Katsumoto pointed his pen at the offering.
"Chicken soup." Magnum smiled happily. "Cures anything."
"Really? You don't say?" Magnum heard a faint note of humour in the words.
"I can attest to the healing properties myself, Detective." Higgins spoke, drawing the attention to herself while Magnum and Katsumoto kept their amusement under control. Magnum watched Lieutenant Kamila lift an eyebrow at the whole exchange, especially when Higgins carried on talking to Katsumoto as though his boss wasn't even in the room.
"You remember the trouble at Robin's Nest a few months ago. Of course, you do. What sort of detective would you be if you'd forgotten that?" She shook her head at her own foolishness. "Well, I was a little … indisposed as a result of that incident. And this sorted me out in no time."
Magnum spotted the spark of sudden realisation in Katsumoto's eyes and knew then that Higgins had still never mentioned being waterboarded to the detective. And he could see that Gordon had just put a bunch of odd facts together and worked out what was missing from the official statements about the siege. There would no doubt be some very pointed questions the next time the detective visited the estate. He nodded slightly and saw Katsumoto mirror the motion.
"Thank you, both of you." Gordon nodded at Magnum and Higgins, keeping the tone friendly but nothing more. "I appreciate the concern."
"Our pleasure." Higgins offered, while Magnum followed that up with, "We'll check in later and see how you're feeling."
"Ten minutes, Detective." Kamila dropped the words like lead weights and walked back towards his office.
"Yes, sir." Katsumoto answered immediately.
Magnum shot a glare after the man, hearing Katsumoto's muffled chuckle at the action.
"We'll be on our way, Detective." Higgins made sure her voice was clear enough to be heard by anyone near Katsumoto's desk, catching Magnum's eye as she did so. "When you're feeling up to it, do drop by the estate again. It's been far too long."
"True." Magnum agreed, matching Juliet's tone and volume. "It's time we got all the 'ohana together again."
Katsumoto ducked his head, hiding what Magnum was sure was a faint grin. Then the detective looked up again, dark eyes serious. He shifted the container of soup to the middle of his desk and gathered a few files.
Magnum shifted slightly to make sure he was blocking Kamila's view of Gordon's face. Katsumoto smiled openly then and muttered quietly. "I don't know how you found out about this, and I'm sure I don't want to know." Higgins smiled at that. Katsumoto closed his eyes for a second and sighed. "But I know what you're doing, the pair of you. So, thank you."
"Any time, Gordy." Magnum murmured back, tone serious. "Like I said, 'ohana."
MPI-MPI-MPI
Three days later, Magnum was considering whether to ask Higgins to hack the HPD network again.
Katsumoto had dropped by the estate on the day after the hearing, shared a beer and a meal with Magnum and his friends. And talked to Juan, back in the Triple Frontier, about the DVDs that Katsumoto had sent down to the boy.
But all Gordon had been willing to say about the hearing was that it had perhaps gone better than he'd hoped. From Katsumoto's behaviour at the precinct, Magnum was sure the detective had been expecting things to be unpleasant and difficult, so his comments on the hearing weren't truly much of a comfort.
And the detective had also said nothing about what had happened at Robin's Nest with Ivan's mercenaries. Magnum wasn't looking forward to the day Gordon decided to ask about that night, and he could tell Higgins was on edge about the idea as well.
Days had passed, and they'd still heard nothing more from the detective. No indication of whether he'd heard anything from the disciplinary board. Magnum knew better than to visit the precinct again at the moment, no matter how badly he wanted to.
He and Higgins were finalising some admin details on the background check Higgins had finished up for Ms Davis while he was away. She was tapping away on her laptop, and the sound of the keys was oddly soothing. Her office was quiet, and he stared out the open doors towards the ocean. He let his mind wander for a moment, then figured he may as well ask.
"Juliet?" It never hurt to test the waters first.
"No, Thomas." The tone made it clear that the answer was final.
"You don't even know what I was going to say."
"Yes, I do." She shot him a stern glare. "You were going to ask me to hack the HPD again."
"How did you know that?" He was honestly curious, especially as he hadn't even decided to ask until moments earlier.
"You have the patience of a toddler on Christmas Eve." A smirk accompanied those words. She stared at him for a moment, tucking one strand of hair behind her ear.
"So? In case you hadn't noticed, it is Christmas Eve." Although, given that she was wearing a white top with little red snow flakes printed on it, he knew his comment was unnecessary. He'd deliberately chosen a red shirt with a green palm leaf print that morning, the colours in honour of the season.
"I had noticed, thank you. However, I'm also well aware that you are not a toddler, and can thus be expected to have more patience than you're currently exhibiting."
"Where's the fun in that?" Magnum laughed. "And back to my question, how did you know?"
"I would also like to know the outcome of that hearing. It wasn't that big a leap of logic." Higgins answered. "But as you've repeatedly said, this is about Gordon's career. And it would be best if we left things alone now. We've done what we could."
"I know." Magnum sighed heavily. "I just hate waiting, thinking that maybe there's something else I could have done. Something different that I should have done, but didn't."
"I understand. Truly." Higgins said quietly. "But at the moment, patience is our only option. Our best option."
"Spoilsport." Magnum grinned at the sharp look Higgins shot him, even though he could see she was only kidding.
"Back to work, Magnum." Higgins closed the file she'd been working on, and opened another. "Have you made any progress on Mr Cho's case?"
"Yeah." Magnum pulled out his phone and accessed the notes and photographs he'd stored there. "The money should be back in Mr Cho's account this morning. One of the bank tellers made a mistake with the account codes – mixed Mr Cho's account up with another one with a very similar number – and couldn't figure out how to reverse the mistake. He was afraid to tell the manager. It's not his first mistake and he's probably going to lose his job over it. Or get demoted back to filing clerk. He asked a friend on the switchboard to send Mr Cho on a wild goose chase every time he called the bank."
"And you've let Mr Cho know?" Higgins tapped details into the file for Mr Cho.
"I have." Magnum confirmed. "Just before I came over here this morning. He's thrilled and said to let you know that his payment will be in our account this afternoon."
"Splendid." Higgins made a final note in that file and then closed it as well.
"All done?" Magnum asked, waiting until Higgins nodded before going on. He held up his phone as he spoke. "I've got a request here from a woman who wants us to follow her husband. She thinks he's cheating on her."
"Quite destroys one's faith in the institution of marriage, doesn't it?" Juliet's sigh was heartfelt.
"Not really." Magnum shrugged. "If you're with the right person for you, it wouldn't happen."
"You sound very sure." Higgins slanted him a questioning look.
"I am." Magnum met her eyes. "You would never have cheated on Richard, or him on you."
"No." Higgins nodded then. "You're right."
"And whatever else she did," Magnum's words were quiet now, serious, "Hannah never cheated on me."
"Left you to die, though." Higgins winced as she spoke. "Sorry, I shouldn't have said that."
"She did, that's true. No need to apologise." Magnum waited a second, then tossed another comment out. "So in effect, faithful until death."
Juliet's eyes widened in shock at his words, and Magnum burst out laughing. After a few seconds, Higgins laughed too, although she still looked a little stunned at the words.
"Bad joke?" Magnum offered.
"Perhaps in poor taste, yes." Higgins agreed. "But accurate, for all that."
Magnum shrugged, smiling, as he raised his phone in a question.
"Yes on the cheating husband case. Agreed?" Juliet's tone was amused.
"I'd say so." Magnum nodded. "But let's leave it until after Christmas, Juliet. Today, let's treat ourselves to an afternoon off. Swing by La Mariana later, confirm the plans for Christmas lunch here tomorrow afternoon."
"Okay, Thomas. You have a deal." Higgins had the computer logged off so quickly that Magnum knew she'd just been looking for a reason to call it a day.
MPI-MPI-MPI
La Mariana was brightly lit, Christmas music playing over the speakers. A local band was setting up on the stage and the tables were full of happy customers.
Gordon Katsumoto stood just outside the main entrance and smiled. He liked to see things going well for his friends, and this tiki bar had been a big gamble for Rick. He hadn't asked any questions about the financial side of starting the business, but he'd heard enough passing comments to know that TC was Rick's main backer. Which was reassuring, from a legal point of view.
When he'd first met Magnum and his friends, he'd run quick backgrounds on all of them. It helped to know something about the people he kept running into at crime scenes.
Those checks had been very interesting, often as much for what they didn't say as for what they did. Magnum's had sent him down some trails that ultimately ran into dead ends, mainly medical, that he would be thankful never to think about again. TC's and Juliet's had been unremarkable aside from their sealed military files. But Rick – Rick's background check had been fascinating. Which was why he was so impressed that Rick was clearly committed to running his business completely above board.
He wouldn't truly have expected anything else, given the friends surrounding the man, but now that he knew that Rick had as many connections on the wrong side of the law as he did on the right side, it was simply more proof that Magnum and all his friends were good people. Some of the best he was ever likely to meet, and to consider friends. He was never going to admit that out loud, of course. Magnum was insufferable enough as it was.
Still, good people to have on your side, no matter the reason. Big or small. Magnum had come after him when the coral smugglers had captured him and threatened Dennis. That had been a life or death situation, and he'd been more grateful than he could say for the help. And Thomas had simply brushed his thanks off with a smile and a 'that's what you do for friends' comment.
Then Magnum had showed up at his desk three days ago, with a container of chicken soup, to offer support in a situation far less deadly. It really didn't matter whether the problem was life-threatening or not; once the man had pulled you into his orbit, made you part of his family, you had him on your side forever.
It was a strangely comforting feeling, knowing that. Knowing that whatever the future might bring, he would never face it alone again.
He shot a quick glance around the room, spotting Magnum, Higgins and TC at a table in the corner. The table he'd come to realise was unofficially reserved for Rick's friends. He headed across the room, dodging a waitress and one very happy couple whose enthusiastic dancing had spun them straight off the dance floor and into his path.
Magnum's red and green shirt was like beacon, impossible to overlook. Katsumoto felt positively under-dressed in his dark trousers and pale blue shirt. At least he had the excuse of having come straight from the office. An office where he'd been trying not to stand out in any way – at least until earlier that afternoon.
"Gordy!" Magnum's voice rang out across the space, turning TC's and Juliet's heads in his direction. He shook his head, forcing a smile off his face.
"What have I told you about calling me that?"
"You like it? You're okay with it?" Magnum played right along, smiling broadly. Katsumoto gave in and let his own smile show.
Rick looked over from behind the bar, raising a bottle in one hand, a question in the tilt of his head. Katsumoto nodded and Rick turned to grab a fresh round of beers from under the bar. TC and Higgins shifted slightly on the seat, making room for Gordon at the table. He settled in, taking a beer from Rick when the man came over from the bar. A second later, Rick used his shoulder to nudge Magnum further behind the table and dropped onto the bench seat as well, passing the remaining beers out around the table.
"So, the gang's all here." Rick was grinning happily, looking like all his Christmas presents had been delivered a day early.
"Yes, indeed." Higgins agreed, TC and Magnum nodding along.
Katsumoto took a sip of the beer, wondering how long it would take. If he were a betting man, he'd have given great odds on Magnum breaking in less than five minutes. The man could resist torture and captivity, hold out indefinitely when the stakes were high. But when things were less serious, Thomas had no endurance at all.
He leaned back and let the stress of the last few days drain out of him, feeling his shoulder muscles ease almost immediately.
Magnum tipped his head at Higgins, who shook her head ever so slightly in response. Then Magnum turned his gaze on TC, who snorted quietly, while Rick just laughed out loud. After another round of meaningful glances between the friends, Magnum finally broke the silence.
"And? Have you heard anything yet?" The undertone in the words was deadly serious, and Katsumoto suddenly understood just how invested Magnum was in the answer. He wasn't quite sure why, though, as the hearing was a result of Katsumoto's own actions. Magnum had played no part in it, even if Katsumoto had told the man that he was a bad influence.
But then again, the one thing he was sure of with Thomas, was that the man could find a load of guilt to bear in any given situation. He'd have to tread carefully for the next few minutes, until he'd managed to point out that this problem had been purely of Katsumoto's own making.
"Yes, actually. This afternoon." Katsumoto let the bare statement hang in the air.
"Come on, Gordy. Don't make me beg …" Magnum turned pleading eyes on the detective and Katsumoto couldn't help but laugh.
"Has that pathetic attempt at puppy-dog-eyes ever worked? On anyone?" Juliet's laugh rang out clearly.
"I've told you before that it doesn't work, Thomas." Rick cut in. "You're not nearly as good at that as you think you are."
"Some friends you are." Magnum huffed, pretending to be annoyed before smiling again. "But come on, Gordy. What happened?"
"I have an official letter of reprimand in my permanent personnel file. It will follow me for the rest of my career." Katsumoto repeated the news he'd had from his Lieutenant a few hours earlier. It had been hard not to rejoice right there in the bullpen when he'd got the news, but he'd managed to keep his composure. Besides, it had felt right to save the celebration until he could share it with his friends.
"That's all?" Magnum sounded thrilled, if a little disbelieving. "You're sure? They're not going to do anything else to you?"
"Well, it has put paid to any chance I had of being Chief of Police." Katsumoto kept his tone serious, even a little disappointed. He watched Magnum's face fall at that bit of news, and dragged the moment out as long as he could before laughing as he admitted, "Not that it was ever something I wanted in the first place."
The shocked relief on Magnum's face was worth the effort it had taken to keep his emotions under control, but now Katsumoto simply laughed as he savoured his beer.
"You really got me." Magnum admitted after the gale of laughter had died away. "I'm just thankful that everything worked out this well." He shook his head then, eyes downcast as he watched his fingers trace patterns on the tabletop. Katsumoto recognised that movement now, having seen it before. A coping mechanism, a way to control strong emotions. "You know, with or without Hannah, I seem to cause everyone trouble. Even when it's the last thing I intend."
"I thought we talked about this. Out at Diamond Head." Katsumoto leaned forward, sensing the others at the table about to speak and lifting a finger to stop them all from saying a word. "You're not to blame for what happened to me. You have not ruined my life."
Magnum's eyes came up at that, and Katsumoto tapped his finger on the table in emphasis. "It was my lack of control that led to the hearing. My temper, my impatience. I should know better."
"You wouldn't have been in those situations if I hadn't been involved." The words were a quiet murmur, barely audible in the noise of the bar.
"You give yourself far too much credit." Katsumoto snorted a laugh. "I can get into trouble all by myself. I have done for years. Lieutenant Kamila is just a little less … lenient … than the bosses I've had before." He stopped and considered that for a moment, then smiled as he shook his head. "In fact, I think your visit to the precinct might actually have helped me."
"It did?" Magnum looked pleased at that. Katsumoto flicked a quick glance around the table and saw three sets of eyes following the conversation with avid attention. He wondered if it was a nice change of pace for them to have someone else pointing out that Magnum wasn't to blame for every problem in the world.
"The soup got you some sympathy from the panel?" Higgins asked, smiling.
"I think it may have." Katsumoto agreed. "Kamila even made a point of telling all the members that I was just back from sick leave."
"Yes!" Rick and TC said in unison, before Rick carried on. "After Thomas told us what he'd done, I told him that play would work. It worked on Greene more times than it failed."
"You bribed your commanding officer with chicken soup?" Katsumoto deliberately played the question for a laugh, quickly getting the desired response.
"No, man. We would never stoop to bribery." TC shook his head, grinning widely. "And definitely not using soup. We'd just find a way to make sure he saw something positive or sympathetic about whichever one of us was in trouble at the time. Hope it made him feel sorry for us."
"But on another topic, Gordy," Magnum leaned forward slightly to ask, "what did you think of that soup?"
"It was … good." Katsumoto answered, watching the quick play of looks and glances around the table.
"Just good?" Higgins asked the question for everyone. "Really?"
"Yeah. Good." Katsumoto confirmed, biting the inside of his cheek to keep the grin off his face.
Disbelief spread around the table, until Magnum looked directly at Katsumoto. He tried to keep his face blank, but the sharp perception in those eyes caught him off guard, and he found it impossible to keep the smile from creeping onto his face. Especially when Magnum was grinning back at him, waving an admonishing finger in his face.
"Okay." Katsumoto admitted. "It was the best I've had."
"It really is, isn't it?" Higgins agreed, sounding particularly definite.
Katsumoto turned his gaze on her for a long moment. "I know what happened at the estate." Higgins froze for a second, her eyes flashing to Magnum.
"He didn't tell me. None of them did." Katsumoto shook his head, noting the range of guilty faces around the table. He turned his attention back to Higgins, meeting her eyes.
"You told me. Your statement that night was nothing more than bare bones. Your hair was damp when we tracked Magnum to that warehouse. That vicious-sounding cough you had a few days later. What you said at the precinct three days ago, about being indisposed after that night." Katsumoto ticked each fact off on his fingers as he spoke, words calm and precise.
"I'm actually very good at my job. Enough clues will always get me to the truth. No matter how long it might take." He took a deep breath, sighed. "And the word of the day, I believe, is waterboarding."
Katsumoto swung his gaze around to encompass everyone at the table. "But let me get to the point I'm trying to make here. None of you told me what happened, even unofficially. I didn't know what was going on. I couldn't help. And that is just not acceptable. Not if we're really 'ohana."
Higgins shifted uncomfortably for a moment, then offered him an apologetic smile and a faintly sheepish nod. He considered her – and what her smile and nod implied – for a long moment, then nodded his acceptance. "Okay, then."
He glanced at the rest of the group and found himself on the receiving end of silent nods from all three men. He nodded back and let the matter rest with one final comment. "No more secrets."
"We really are in this together, aren't we?" Rick offered, picking up his beer.
"You know it, brother." TC nodded.
"Sharing the load, watching out for each other." Higgins contributed.
"'Ohana. Us against the world." Magnum picked up his beer and considered the words for a long moment. Then he looked up and met Katsumoto's gaze straight on. He tipped his bottle towards Gordon in acknowledgement.
Katsumoto held Magnum's gaze for a long, serious moment. Then he raised his bottle slightly in agreement. "Allies." It was an offer, a promise, an assurance. An unexpected gift to treasure. A quiet chorus of voices echoed the sentiment a moment later, four more bottles raised slightly to confirm the vow.
"Allies."
FIN