I've been a fan of the show Hunter since the very beginning (not saying how old that makes me, LOL!)
Anyhow, the first several seasons were wonderful and I loved the chemistry between them. I always thought they were "friends with benefits" long before that term was ever coined. Season 2 was a pivotal time in their relationship, from "Rape and Revenge" forward. So this is my take on how their relationship evolved, starting late season 2. This will be an epic story, and it's purely my imagination. I own nothing, I'm just taking them for a stroll. Strong Adult content applies.
The Agony and the Ecstasy, Part 1
Dee Dee tried to listen to the woman currently sharing her rape trauma story. Christina was still raw in her pain and grief, and rightfully so. It was all a part of the healing process, Dee Dee knew, but...her mind wandered from the crisis group.
Jerry, the very nice FBI agent she'd been dating...was wanting to take the logical next step. She was attracted to him, no doubt. And Jerry knew her backstory. He was willing to wait for her until she was ready. But why did she freeze up when it came to any more than kissing and petting? Last night, she put the brakes on after a lovely dinner and a movie.
"Look, it's not you, it's me," she placed her hands on his chest, pushing him lightly.
Jerry leaned his head back against the car seat, removing his hands, "You keep saying that," he muttered. "I'm as patient as the next guy, but your heart doesn't seem in this."
"I'm scared, okay?" she admitted finally. "Not-not of you, of-of letting go. It's not fair to you, at all."
Dee Dee reached for his hand. "As your friend...maybe we should keep it that way."
Jerry cracked a small smile, "Friend, huh?"
She leaned over and kissed his cheek, "Friends."
Then it was work the next morning, "So, have fun with the junior G man?" Rick cracked as they sipped their morning coffees.
She slapped the file she was holding on her desk, "Give it a rest," she snapped through gritted teeth.
Hunter looked up in surprise. She evaded his gaze and picked the file up again. "Geez, sorry," he muttered. What the hell? Why was she so touchy?
They continued to slog through paperwork, speaking only when necessary.
He made an effort to apologize at lunchtime, "Hey, how about a chili dog, my treat?"
She rolled her eyes, "A chili dog? Really?"
Hunter grinned, "With the works, fries, soda...? What do you say?"
For some reason, junk food really appealed to her at that moment, "Sure, why not?"
She made an honest effort to eat, but she was still in a pensive mood.
Hunter noticed, "If you can't finish it, leave it."
"No, it's actually quite good," she smiled. "Sorry for snapping at you this morning."
Rick bit his lip, "Things not going well with what's his name?"
"Jerry," she tossed a napkin at him. "He's a really nice guy and a good friend."
"Lookit, I'm not needing the details," he groaned. "My mouth runs ahead of my brain sometimes."
"Most of the time," she ribbed him back.
Their afternoon was spent doing wit interviews and surveillance. Dee Dee remained in a pensive mood, maybe even a little sad.
"Any other shares?" Anita's voice broke into her thoughts.
Dee Dee cleared her throat, "Um...yeah. How...how do you handle intimacy? I mean, when do you know you're ready?"
Rachel shuddered, "Oh, my God. I can't imagine letting someone put hands on me. The thought..." she shivered.
"But rape is an act of violence, of control," Vanessa spoke up.
"Of your body," Dee Dee added. "Everything I thought I knew about myself, my sexuality, my body image...my attacker really shook that up." She blinked tears from her eyes. "There's this guy...he's kind, intelligent, and attractive. Not to mention been real patient with me. I want to...but then when it comes to committing to the act...I just can't."
Anita acknowledged their thoughts, "Trust is the first step. Be open with your partner."
Vanessa nodded. "My boyfriend couldn't take it. And he was patient and loving...but I think, deep down, he blamed me." She blew her nose forcefully.
Christina nodded, "My husband...he says he doesn't blame me. But I blame me!" she cried.
Rachel indicated the diamond ring on Vanessa's hand, "You must have worked it out."
"I did," Vanessa smirked. "But not with him. You see, I had this guy friend who was really great to me, super supportive. We'd never had any what you'd call romantic feelings for each other, just a best buddy." She studied her fingernails and twisted the ring on her finger. "I just decided he was going to be the one who got me over the hump, so to speak."
The women in the room giggled at her slip of the tongue.
"And how did that work out?" Anita inquired. "Did it impact that friendship?"
Vanessa grinned sheepishly, "You're all invited to the wedding in 6 weeks."
Dee Dee brushed the sweat off her face. "Moving is such a bitch," she muttered. She added the box to a growing pile in the living room. But her resolve strengthened as she walked into her bedroom.
It happened here. The bright, cheery sanctuary ceased to be the minute Mariano nearly killed her.
Hunter was in the process of stacking the pieces of the bed against the wall. He sensed her presence behind him. "Hey, you okay?" He regarded her solicitously, seeing her eyes cloud over.
"Fine, really. The homeless charity is coming in the morning to get this," she indicated the bed.
"So you need to go bed shopping. Need any help?" he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.
She laughed, "Sure, why not?"
He shook his head, "I dunno, you made me a slave, lifting and packing, I don't know if I have the strength to tag along with a shopaholic."
"Give it a rest," she grinned, returning to the kitchen.
"Okay, the cupboards are done," Vanessa handed the last box to her fiance, Kent. "What next?"
"Uh, how about a break?" Dee Dee turned at the sound of the doorbell.
"Guys, what are you doing here?" about a half dozen officers from the division and their spouses piled in, bearing takeout bags that smelled of tomatoes and garlic, as well as coolers of sodas and beer.
By the time the sun was set, the rest of the boxes were packed, labeled and stacked. People were sprawled on the furniture, floor and on the back patio, eating, laughing and exchanging war stories.
Vanessa plopped down at the table for their lunch date, "Sorry I'm late, last minute wedding stuff," she rolled her eyes. "How's the new place?"
Dee Dee laughed, "Actually pretty good. No longer living in early box décor."
"I suspect Rick Hunter had a lot to do with that," Vanessa said slyly.
"What can I say, the big guy is pretty handy." Dee Dee sipped her iced tea.
"I'll just bet," she smirked.
"What? He's my best friend, you know that!" she tried to ignore the flush in her cheeks.
"Oh, I know, I saw," Vanessa grinned.
She had plenty of time to watch them in action as they were packing up her old house. The banter, the schtick, and the ease between the partners was obvious. She also didn't miss the expression on Rick's face when he looked at Dee Dee in an unguarded moment. Vanessa had walked in to the bedroom and stopped short in the doorway. Hunter was sitting on the floor with Dee Dee. Their backs were pressed to the wall, his arms around her. She was clutching a teddy bear, and tears were rolling down her cheeks. The look on his face was...she'd seen that same look on Kent's. Sorrow, tenderness, and...love. He loved her. Vanessa backed silently from the room.
"Why don't you ask him?" Vanessa broached the subject as they finished their desserts.
"Vanessa!" Dee Dee was shocked. "We're partners, best friends. He's like...like a big brother."
"Oh, hell no!" Vanessa retorted. "I may have only known you guys what, 4 months?" Anyone who's been around you for 4 minutes gets what you mean to each other."
"Yes, but...being police officers, partners. That kind of relationship can mean death on the streets," she dipped her head. "I lost my husband to the job...and I won't risk my heart again."
"I didn't know about your husband. But I'm not talking a love affair, I'm talking someone you obviously care for and vice versa. Someone you trust and who would be careful with you, with your heart and body," Vanessa prodded.
"It can't happen that way, at least not for Rick and me," McCall said with a firmness that she didn't really feel inside. Of course, she'd considered it. But after those days in the hotel room, babysitting Fabro, Rick had let something slip. Oh, he didn't say the words, but she knew.
"She loved it, Mom. Yes, she is a good girl. Now, I want the Neopolitan Pizza for tomorrow.
"We've been in this cruddy hotel for all these days and I just wanted things to be perfect for you," he said.
Dee Dee's heart sank. She'd suspected for a while, since the rape. She'd catch him unawares, heard him on the couch, sometimes sniffling late at night when he stayed with her. How he'd hold her when he thought she was sleeping, gently stroking her hair and pressing a kiss to her temple. His white hot rage towards Mariano, and all that transpired in Curaguay. It couldn't happen again, and she had to be forthright and tell him, without hurting him. About her desire for a home and children, how she'd never risk her heart with a cop again. He took it well. Still...
It was late on Thursday and they'd just wrapped another trying case.
"This job would be great without the paperwork," Hunter grumbled.
"I'm about done with mine," she smirked across the desk.
"And we're real proud of you," he muttered. "Oh, damn it," as he reached for the correction tape. "Nobody likes a braggart, McCall."
"Geez, sometimes you are the biggest baby," she sighed. "What, you got big plans for the weekend?"
"No," he said abruptly. "But you know I have to be in court tomorrow."
"I know," she strolled over to the coffee pot and filled his cup again.
"Here, drink this," Dee Dee handed it to him. "Make you a deal, I'll help you if and only if you take me to dinner tomorrow night."
"Really? All right!" he brightened considerably. "Since I'll be close to the courthouse..."
"Oh, no no no no!" she interrupted. "We will not be doing Sid's or Rex's or any other dive. A real restaurant with tablecloths and actual printed menus."
"And I suppose you have the place all picked out," he said dryly.
"I do," she laughed, naming the place. "Reservations are for 7."
"What the hell? And if I'd said no?" he objected.
"Well, then, you might spend your weekend typing reports instead of fishing or staking out babes on the beach," she needled him. "Wear a coat and tie, they have a dress code. Now, hand me those reports. We can't risk a DA reject just 'cause you can't type."
Hunter handed her the reports and finished the one he was working on. What was up with her? He caught a weird vibe as she bent over her typewriter. Not that she never resorted to bribery when it came to paperwork, but something else was going on. Not the most analytical of men, he shook off the thought.
Dee Dee cut out of work a little early and went shopping. The dress she selected was a bit out of her price range, but she loved how it caressed her curves. The color was deep rose, with a sweep to the skirt. She selected lingerie and some new pumps. At home, she prepared for the evening. taking extra pains with her makeup and hair. She reached for the expensive perfume Hunter had given her for her last birthday. They were meeting at the restaurant, so she needed to leave pretty soon.
As it was Hunter was there, waiting. He was about to give her grief until he saw her walk in. His breath hissed inward, "Oh."
"Oh, what? I'm not late, you're early," she ribbed him. "Nice suit," she flicked at his tie.
After they ordered, including wine, Rick regained his voice, "Pretty dress, never seen it before."
"You haven't," she admitted with a smile. "Surprised you noticed."
"Hey, I am a detective, remember," he swallowed nervously.
"C'mon, no more work," she held out her wineglass and he refilled it.
Their talk was light and the evening passed pleasantly. Dee Dee tried to eat the meal she chose, but she was nervous. The wine was slipping down much more easily. By the time dessert rolled around, she felt a pretty good buzz.
"Wanna dance?" he stood and held out his hand.
"We-uh shouldn't," she demurred.
"Oh, come on," he coaxed.
She acquiesced, seeming to float in his arms. Three slow songs later, Dee Dee gently pressed her hands to his chest. If she didn't get up the nerve to ask him, she never would, "Hey, can we go out and get some fresh air. I'm feeling a bit..."
"Drunk?" he teased. "You're such a lightweight."
"After 4 glasses of wine," she said sheepishly as he paid the check.
He steered her towards his car, "And you even got me to be your designated driver. You owe me a few for this, partner."
"Partner," she whispered, smiling, leaning her head back against the seat.
"Okay, time for the fresh air," he touched her arm.
"Hey, this isn't my place," she protested. "It's yours."
"A walk on the beach, is just the thing to sober you up," Rick opened her door and draped his jacket around her shoulders. They paused at a bench to take off their shoes then headed out onto the sand.
"Thanks for a great time tonight, I really needed it," she said quietly.
"I kind of got that," Rick put his arm around her shoulders. "Are you all right?"
"Yes...no, I don't know," she stammered. "Look, I'm just going to come out and say it. Since the rape, I haven't been with anyone...sexually. My issues are holding me back big time."
"But you will, Dee Dee," Rick soothed her. "You're beautiful and smart and...sexy and any guy would be lucky...wait a minute, did the junior G man?"
"Nope, not for want of trying," she sighed.
"You just have to relax, give it more time," he said.
"I've had enough of giving it time," Dee Dee shook her head and whirled around to face him. "I've come to the conclusion there's only one man I trust implicitly right now," she poked a finger at his chest. "You."
Rick looked down at her, her features soft in the moonlight, but there was no mistaking the intense look on her face.
"Me? Oh, Jesus Christ McCall!" he was truly shocked.
"What?" she yelled back. "Why not?"
"Why not?!" he bellowed. "About breaking a half dozen regs, that's why not!"
"I don't want white lace and promises, just a-a," she sputtered.
"A no strings attached fuck?" he finished.
Her face flamed, "To be with someone I...care about, someone I trust with my body, with my heart," she fought back tears.
"We can't, we're partners," he pleaded.
"Who better?" she challenged.
"You know why," he paced back and forth in the sand. "Is that was what tonight was about? You seducing me?"
"No! Well, maybe. I don't know!" she grabbed his arm. "Forget it, take me home."
"We're not done talking yet," he said.
"Yes, we are. I asked, you said no, that's it," she stormed away from him. "I'll call a cab."
"No, you won't," he caught up to her.
"Sorry the idea was so offensive," she rubbed her face, suddenly exhausted.
"Lookit," they were now back to the bench where they'd left their shoes. "Sit down."
McCall couldn't even look at him, but she did as he asked. Somehow she seemed even smaller as she huddled in his jacket.
"It's not offensive, the idea of you and me," Hunter put his arm around her. "In fact, it's kind of flattering."
"I don't want it to be an emotional entanglement, I don't," she leaned her head on his shoulder.
"But how could it not be?" his voice was thick. "You're my best friend."
"And you're mine," she put her hand in his. "That's why I know."
"It's...like unringing a bell. We can't go back," he pleaded.
"We're not virgins, here, big guy," she giggled, elbowing him. "It's just...free sex with a guy who has a way with women...so I've heard."
"Free sex, great that's what you think of me," he pinched the bridge of his nose.
"C'mon, let's just give it a rest," she sighed. "Take me home. We'll just chalk this up to me being drunk and a little sloppy. We'll be back to cops and robbers in lotus land on Monday. No hard feelings?" she slapped her hand over her mouth, laughing at the slip of her tongue.
"No hard...I can't believe you said that, geez," he chuckled. "Get in the car."
Rick turned the heater on as she shivered a little under his jacket, "Comfy?" he chuckled.
"Sleepy," she yawned, suddenly drained.
"Hey, partner, wake up," he shook her shoulder lightly.
"Hmm, mm," Dee Dee huddled down in the seat.
"What, you want me to carry you?" he said, close to her ear.
Something in his tone jerked her wide awake, "You wouldn't dare," she swung her stocking feet out of the car and put her hand on his chest.
"Says the woman who just tried to...never mind," he broke off when she elbowed him in the ribs.
Rick took her house keys out of her hand and unlocked the door.
Dee Dee walked in ahead of him and turned to hand him his jacket.
He looked around the house and made sure everything was secure, then took her by the shoulders, "Drink lots of water, and hit the ibuprofen in the morning," he kissed her forehead.
"It actually is morning," she smiled and caressed his cheek lightly.
"Good night, McCall," he said from the doorway. "Lock up."
"I will," she shoved him lightly.
Hunter got in the car and waited until he saw the light go out in her bedroom. Even then, he didn't move to turn the key in the ignition. What possessed her tonight? Did she get that he...loved her? That she held a part of him that went far beyond the physical? It took every bit of his willpower not to sling her over his shoulder on the beach, strip her and take her right there. He wasn't too sure about going back into her house, running up the stairs and doing the same. He gripped the steering wheel and turned the key. Once home, he took a cold shower and dropped into bed. But his dreams were plagued with images of his partner, naked and writhing in this bed. He woke up tangled in sweaty sheets, "God damn it."
Dee Dee stopped in the bathroom, dumped her dress on the floor and fell rather gracelessly into bed. She woke in the morning, mouth dry. She rolled over and winced at the sun streaming in the window. Her head was throbbing, and she pulled a pillow over her face. Why in the hell did she drink so much last night? As she replayed the evening in her head, she remembered. "Fixed things good, didn't you?" she muttered, sitting up. She got up and headed for the shower. She flung her bra off and discarded her pantyhose, wrinkling her nose at the sand left on her floor. Where were her shoes? And her car?
"Shit!" her shoes were in Hunter's car and her car was in Westwood, outside the restaurant. So much for not facing her partner until Monday.
She dressed in shorts and a faded t shirt, and went downstairs. The day looked to be a warm one. She slammed down a bunch of water and a few ibuprofen. Tea seemed a better idea than coffee at the moment, so she brewed a cup and listened to her messages. Nothing of consequence, really. Her mother reminded her of next Sunday's sunrise service and Easter brunch. Her dry cleaning was ready to pick up. It was time to schedule a routine dental appointment. Her headache was subsiding, so she braved a slice of toast and some fruit salad. Dee Dee spent the rest of the morning doing laundry and cleaning. She contemplated calling Hunter and then thought better of it. Maybe one of her girlfriends could take her to her car.
The doorbell rang, interrupting her musings. Barefoot, she padded to the door. She was rather surprised to see her partner.
"I-uh, brought your car back," Rick stammered. "And here are your shoes," he handed them to her.
"Thanks," she leaned against the door jamb. "How did you get to Westwood?" she peered around him and saw just her car in the drive.
"Took a cab," he said, taking in her casual attire. Again, trying to act with his brain and not his dick.
"Very nice of you, considering my behavior last night," she turned and waved him inside. "I can drive you back to your place."
"I can call one of my neighbors," he took a seat on the end of her couch. "And as for last night.." he watched her pace nervously back and forth. "For God's sake, will you sit down?" he was exasperated.
Warily, Dee Dee sat across from him, perched on the edge of a chair opposite. "I thought we weren't going to talk about that."
"You said the subject was closed," he reminded her. "Now I get my say."
She sat back in her chair, still wary.
Rick's words were from somewhere deep, a place he didn't visit often. Probably only with her, he thought ironically. She knew him better than about anyone on earth. Considering they were only on two years of really being partners, that was saying a lot. "You shocked me last night, and I don't shock easily," he began.
"I know," she acknowledged.
"The feelings I have for you, that we have for each other, are complicated enough already. We agreed right from the start, that we weren't going to be intimate..." he held up a hand as she started to speak. "Not physically intimate, I mean."
She nodded, "Yes, I remember."
"It's not about right or wrong or the regs or the job," Rick said earnestly. "It's about..we've both seen when it goes south, and I just don't want that for us. You've been so traumatized this year, I care more about our relationship than any...baser feelings I might have," he cracked his famous grin.
"So you do have a few," she smiled smugly. "I have to admit, I'm kinda proud of you, big guy."
"Knock it off," he reached forward and pulled one of her curls. "You know the real reason. Don't make me say that word."
She looked at him with tears in her eyes.
"You knew, didn't you?" he sighed.
"I guess we have to thank that armpit Fabro for one thing," she admitted. "I feel the same way." Dee Dee got up to pace the room. "But that's why I said what I did. I'm not ever going to marry another cop."
"I know," Rick said miserably.
"But we can...feel for each other without being in love," she sat back down and took his hands.
"I'm not sure if I even know how to do that, I mean without..." he admitted.
"This is me you're talking to," she tried to lighten the conversation up. "Don't tell me you've been in love with every woman you've gone to bed with."
"You're my partner, Dee Dee. My first woman partner, may I remind you? I have never been in this situation, ever," he pinched the bridge of his nose.
"So you can look at this as a step of your...evolution," she teased.
"This isn't funny," Rick groaned. "I don't want to cheapen what we have."
"I'm not," she said solemnly. "Do you get why I asked? That I trust you above all else?" she pleaded.
"I do," he nodded.
"Gee, just like the marriage vows," she teased.
"The marriage made in Disneyland," he laughed. "Take me home, partner."
The drive back to his place was considerably lighter. The sexual banter flew fast and furious, but Dee Dee knew that as far as Hunter was concerned, the subject was closed. She was disappointed, but admitted to herself he was likely right. At least he didn't make her feel badly for her proposition.
Rick's relief at their conversation was short lived. His own traitorous brain and hormones were more intense than less as the week wore on. He knew who she was, how she conducted her life. She was selective in her relationships, far more than he. The fact that she expressed her trust in him was not only flattering, it was humbling. He'd seen her at her very worst after Mariano attacked her. The weeks and months of sleeping on each other's couches, the tears, the screams, the nightmares...he shuddered. He could never grasp the depth of her trauma, but he was a front row witness to it. Would sex between them make it worse? Bring it back? Which brought him around to the next thought. Not considering it at all quickly evolved into how would they accomplish it without it getting in the way of the job. By Thursday, they were trying to wrap up the skid row stalker case. They had a drink with Pockets, and finished their paperwork Good Friday morning. Solving the case snagged Rick and Dee Dee a few hour-early start to the weekend.
They talked casually about the upcoming weekend. Rick's Uncle Dom was hosting the family on Easter at his palatial mansion, and Hunter was planning on taking his mother.
Dee Dee mentioned that she was going to church with her mom, then helping her host family for their Easter brunch. She planned to make a few things, but everyone was responsible for bringing something to contribute.
"You're actually cooking?" he ribbed her as they walked to their respective cars.
"Shut up, Hunter. I can manage to make a few select dishes. My potato poopies, as you call them," she laughed.
"Yeah, those are pretty good," he leaned against her car. "Will you make some extra for me?"
"Such nerve, after you insult my culinary skills!" she play fully shoved him.
"Anything else?" he inquired.
"No chili dogs or jelly donuts," she giggled, citing a few of his favorite things. "But I am making a triple chocolate cake with white chocolate ganache."
"Well, that should take up all of your Saturday. Just don't forget the potato poopies," he shoved his body off the car and took a seat in his own. "See ya Monday. Happy Easter!"
She waved, "Happy Easter, Hunter!"
Rick spent the late afternoon shopping. He knew her taste, and didn't want anything overtly racy. She loved soft fabrics, with a high end feel. He wandered into a few boutiques, keeping in mind her favorite colors. The saleswomen were more than happy to help the handsome, charming man, even hitting on him. He forestalled them by saying he was looking for something for his fiancee.
At the third shop, he found what exactly what he was looking for. Beautiful pale pink silk pajamas, with a matching robe pale pink-on-pink large polka dots,. The fabric was elegant and felt like it would dissolve to the touch. It was wrapped in fine tissue, and he moved on. Her favorite bubble bath, then maybe wine? He debated on that and decided she should be sober for this. Next, food.
His cooking skills were non existent, so he debated take out from her favorite restaurant. As it turned out, it wasn't necessary. Lucia Hunter called him Saturday morning. "Ricky, come over and get some food. You've been working too hard."
"Ma, you know I've been working long hours this week. Besides, we're going to Uncle Dom's tomorrow and you know Sophie cooks enough for an army," he protested, slamming his usual protein smoothie down.
"And I'm making food to help her out," she countered. "You come over and get food now. And take some to Dee Dee. That girl is too thin, you work her too hard."
"She is not too thin, she's fine," Rick sighed. "And I do not work her too hard!"
"I made your favorites, eggplant Parmesan and Neapolitan pizza," she wheedled. "There's arancini, minestrone, salad, garlic bread and tiramisu."
"Oh, all right," he acquiesced, "I'll be right over."
"Why don't you just bring her over here?" Lucia asked.
"Because she has plans with her own family for Easter," he said. "See you in about half an hour."
He left his mother's house, loaded down with enough food to last a week. He didn't tell her that the food was part of his plan to...uh, get to know his partner in the Biblical sense. Hunter took the food and sorted what he'd need for an early dinner into a picnic basket, then had a bowl of minestrone for lunch. He added the bag with the lingerie and the bubble bath to the front seat of the car.
Dee Dee spent the morning baking the chocolate cake and setting the layers to cool. Next, she mixed up the potato puffs and readied them for frying later. She did make enough for Rick to have on Monday, in spite of him knocking her cooking skills. She touched base with her cousin Barbara, coordinating who was bringing what dish. A light lunch of a sandwich and chips, then she headed out for a run.
Hunter pulled up to her condo, and rang the bell, then knocked. No answer. After a moment's hesitation, he used his key to gain entrance. Her car was in the garage, so he doubted she'd gone far.
He set about getting things situated. He stored the food in the fridge, and took the time to pull the curtains, casting the condo in a soft light. He ran upstairs, arranged candles around the tub, and turned down the bed, fishing a couple condoms out of his jeans pocket and setting them on the nightstand. The stuffed animal collection was stowed in a basket in the corner. Carefully, Rick set the tissue wrapped pajamas and robe on the bench at the foot of the bed. He poured the bubble bath under the stream of warm water and lit the candles. He paced as the tub filled and looked at his watch for about the millionth time.
Dee Dee jogged up the sidewalk, surprised to see Hunter's car in her driveway. She turned the key in the lock and called out, "Hey, I thought we were off until Monday!"
Rick turned off the tub taps and headed downstairs, "Where you been?"
"Out for a run," she informed him. "Did we catch a case?"
"Uh, no," he stammered. "I came over to surprise you."
"Surprise me?" she caught the scent of the bath floating down the stairs and looked at the drawn curtains. "Um, what do you mean, sur- oh, holy hell," her knees failed her and she dropped onto the sofa, brushing her forearm across her sweaty face.
"Yeah," he sat on the coffee table, their knees touching.
Their eyes stared each other down, not saying anything. That partner ESP, as their fellow cops called it.
She cleared her throat, "What happened to 'we're not doing this?'"
He shrugged, "Changed my mind. Have you?"
"Changed my mind?" she blew out a breath. "Christ, give me a minute, you're giving me whiplash."
He rolled his eyes.
After another long moment, she got up and unplugged the phone, "Let me get cleaned up," she headed for the stairs. "I'm all sweaty."
He leaned on the banister, grinning, "I don't mind."
She shoved him lightly, "I mind," she practically ran up the stairs. Once there, she took in the bedroom. Dee Dee fingered the tissue paper and undid the ribbons. Oh, wow. She shook out the robe and pajamas, and held them to her cheek. Her favorite color and the material was lovely. The bedclothes were turned down and she saw the condoms. Candles lit and a bubble bath, all her favorite things. She went into the bathroom, used the toilet and discarded her clothes. She sunk into the warm bubbles, trying to quell her nerves. If she didn't know better, she'd think she was being seduced by her partner. Her cheeks flushed, well, they were about to have carnal knowledge of each other...at her instigation. Why shouldn't there be a little foreplay? She slid down into the tub, letting the bubbles tickle her chin and reached for the chilled glass next to her. Sparkling apple juice?! Oh, lord.
She could use a little liquid courage to calm her nerves, but settled for a dose of xanax. The butterflies in her stomach were feeling like full on bats. She pulled the plug on the tub and dried off. Dee Dee chose to forgo the pajamas and slipped on just the robe. She called downstairs, "Apple juice, Hunter, really?"
He bounded up the steps, two at a time, "Hey, I want you sober."
She sat on the bench, and extended a hand to him, "Thanks for the robe and pajamas, they're lovely."
"I want this to be special for you, not just...well, you know," he sat next to her and took her face in his hands. Slowly, he brushed his lips to hers.
"Already is," she smiled against his lips.
"Plan on taking my time, but if you need to slow things down..." he let his fingers run through her dark hair. She had been letting it grow out and be more curly as of late. He loved it.
She put her hands over his, "I trust you," she whispered.
"And if I scare or hurt you," Hunter was serious. "I want you to tell me."
"You won't," She surrendered herself to his kisses, lips and tongues tangoing, sliding into a sensual abyss.
Their breaths were harsh as they the barriers between them came crashing down.
She deliberately reached for the hem of his t shirt and tugged it over his head. She ran her fingertips over his chest, smiling a bit nervously.
Rick nimbly undid the tie of the robe and slipped it off her shoulders. His breath caught as he cupped her breasts in his hands, used his thumbs to tease her nipples.
She let out little whimpers of pleasure as he replaced his fingers with his tongue. He continually plied her with caresses.
"Let's lie down," he whispered, his own body on fire.
She felt the cool sheet at her back as she lay down. The jitters she had vanished as she kept her eyes focused on him. This is Rick, she reminded herself. He'll never hurt you. Her hand reached out to the bulge in his jeans, but he pushed her hand away.
"You first," he whispered hoarsely. His hands and fingers stroked every inch of her, followed by his lips and tongue, making her forget anything but his touch. His reputation was certainly well earned, she thought to herself.
Hunter tried to ride his emotions with a curb bit, but he just couldn't. Her body was beyond any fantasy he'd ever had. He touched and kissed everywhere, concentrating on driving her over the edge. He carefully stoked her thighs open then took her.
She rode the waves of pleasure, thinking she might just die from it. Not once or twice...her brain short circuited, her skin slicked with sweat ...just...don't...think... she was crying and cursing, totally lost. There was no pain, no terror, just nirvana.
Tears steamed down her face.
What?" Did I hurt you?" He leaned over her anxiously.
"N-no, you...treasured me," she searched for the words.
"Aw, sweetheart...that was the idea." He pulled her tightly against his chest, her head tucked under his chin
"Hey, big guy,this rodeo isn't over yet,"she chuckled breathlessly, unzipping his fly and freeing him from the constricting denim. "Help me, damn it," as she tried to divest him of the jeans altogether. She reached for the condom on the nightstand., and pushed his hand away as she slipped it into place, hands shaking.
In a flash, he was inside her, taking her higher and higher. Rick was beyond experienced in the sexual realm, but he found even he could learn a few things. Like how it felt to be with a woman he truly loved. How responsive they could be to each other, like they'd been together a million years. "not gonna last long," he warned her.
In response, she tightened her muscles around him, and rolled on top. Her expression turned smug and she looked down on him, "Take your time," but her voice was ragged as pleasure raged through her body.
Hunter rolled her on her back, and braced his elbows on either side of her head, "Open your eyes, baby."
She looked up at him, eyes lost in a haze of desire.
A few final thrusts and they were both over the edge.
Rick and Dee Dee were slow to come down from their carnal high. His head was on her chest, their limbs tangled in the messy sheets.
"That was...well...words fail me," her fingers caressed his back and hair.
He lifted his head slightly, "Gotta be a first," he smirked.
She flicked his cheek, giggling.
After a bit, they took turns tending to necessities then crashed back in bed. Thinking Rick was asleep, Dee Dee whispered, "Love you."
"Love you, too," he murmured into her neck.
The sun was casting shadows in the late afternoon when Dee Dee awakened. Rick's head was pillowed between her breasts and he was snoring softly. Her body still tingled in all the best places and she was in a state of total languor. Idly, she traced lazy patterns with her fingertips across his shoulders and down his back. She could feel his arousal against her thigh and he rolled over, still asleep. She contemplated the relaxed look on his face, feeling a wave of tenderness. Dee Dee hadn't ever caught this expression as he never seemed to let his guard down. All tough cop, sarcastic and even funny. But this...he looked younger, vulnerable. If she could return even part of the pleasure he'd given her this afternoon...
She smiled impishly and climbed astride his thighs. Dee Dee took her time, licking, tasting, touching him. She knew she was hitting all his erogenous zones when he groaned and his erection grew.
"Now that's a great way to wake up," he managed, his hands on her butt. "I might never leave here," he chuckled.
In response, she lightly bit a very sensitive place of his anatomy, "Okay, okay, I give," he protested.
"Really? You give what?" she slid her body over his, listening to his heart thumping in his chest.
"This!" he grabbed blindly for a condom and deftly put it on. He flipped her underneath him and attacked her mouth with his.
"No fair," her words were becoming more breathless.
Round two was fast and furious. More about pleasure than tenderness. They ended up laughing in each others arms. Having a pillow fight. Dee Dee found Rick was ticklish along his lower ribcage and filed that bit of knowledge away for further...exploration. They compared the size of their clasped hands, their feet.
"Christ, look at your toes, they're about as long as mine," he teased.
"No, they're not!" she protested, laying her head on his belly, nearly spent with laughter. "God, I am starving."
Just then, Rick's stomach growled, "Me, too."
"Oh, that's sexy," Dee Dee giggled.
"What can I say? You wore me out, woman," his fingers played in her hair.
"I guess we have to get up and get dressed if we want food," she sighed. "Or order takeout."
"Neither," he ran his hands down her spine, cupping her butt. "I brought food, courtesy of my mom."
She lifted her head, "What? Why?"
"I told her I was seducing you this afternoon and could she contribute to the cause," he smirked.
Dee Dee pulled at a few of his chest hairs, mortified, "You didn't!?"
He swatted at her hand, "Ouch! No, that wasn't why. But it was sure worth the look on your face," he grinned.
She got up and huffed, "I hate you, Hunter," as she headed into the bathroom.
"You seemed to like me just fine a minute ago," he called out, pulling the covers up and yawning.
Dee Dee turned on the shower and relaxed under the hot spray. What an afternoon, she mused as languidly soaped up and rinsed. Rick was truly an attentive lover, and restored a lot of her self image. Too bad it was just this one day... She liberally rubbed lotion into her skin and wrapped herself in a towel. She really wasn't ready to get dressed so she came back into the bedroom.
Rick was lying still, eyes closed.
She dropped the towel and reached for the pajamas that were still folded on the bench.
"Hey, you don't have to put those on," he sat up in bed. "I like the view just fine without them."
"Really? Mr 'I'm too worn out?'" she teased, throwing a pillow at him. "If you can muster up the strength, the bathroom is all yours. I'm going to heat up our dinner." Dee Dee made a beeline for the stairs.
Rick got up and took his turn in the shower. He let his mind wander to a few of the most erotic moments from the afternoon, but then shut himself down. This is a one time event, man, he told himself. No matter how much you want her...He finished off with a cold blast and went to find his clothes. He pulled on his jeans, but his t shirt was lost somewhere in the bed linens. He shrugged and headed downstairs, barefoot.
Dee Dee was busy in the kitchen, setting out nice dishes and glasses. Candles were burning at the small table and the kitchen was smelling like an Italian restaurant. She searched and found an unopened bottle of wine. Water glasses were filled, and wine uncorked.
"Wow, this is great," Rick complimented her.
"My reheating skills are second to none," she laughed, pulling food from the oven and microwave, and putting it on the table.
Rick poured the wine, and reached out an arm to pull her close, "Are you okay?"
She smiled and stood on tiptoe to kiss his lips lightly, "I'm fine."
That little moment of tension gone, they tucked in to the fabulous meal. Their conversation was light, bantering even. The little kitchen felt homey, intimate.
"So you didn't tell me, why did your mom send over food?" she took a bite of the eggplant Parmesan.
"Yes, I did," he deadpanned.
She threw a breadstick at him, which he caught handily. "Liar."
"Okay, she said you were too skinny, and I was working you too hard," he acquiesced.
Her mouth fell open, "Really?"
"Hand to God," Rick said sheepishly. "And I can tell her she was totally wrong on one count."
She smirked, "Which one? I mean, since you've seen all of me."
"That I work you too hard," he admitted. "You are a little skinny."
"Well, I have to admit, food hasn't been high on my priority list...for a while," Dee Dee sighed.
He forked up an arancini ball and fed it to her, "We can fix that right now."
She laughed. "Will you stop? And you do work me too hard, some times more than others," she arched her eyebrows flirtatiously.
"Oh, really?" he teased right back.
The partners made vast inroads on the meal, and worked together to clear the dishes.
"Too full for the tiramisu?" Dee Dee pulled another dish out of the fridge, in time to see Rick pinch off a piece of one of the chocolate cake layers on the counter. She swatted at his hand, "Stay out of that!"
"Why? It's pretty good," he grinned.
"So I'm supposed to bring a defective cake to my mom's tomorrow?" she shook her head.
Rick put his hands on her shoulders, "Just dump a little extra frosting on it, they'll never know."
She made an exasperated noise, "Eat this," she shoved a spoonful of tiramisu in his mouth.
It was nearly ten before Rick reluctantly made his way to the door.
"You can't leave without a shirt," she scolded lightly. "It's chilly out there." Dee Dee ran upstairs and looked through her dresser. She knew he'd left clothes there on the occasions he camped out on her couch. She unearthed a navy one, neatly folded and clean.
"Huh, I wondered where that one went," he took it from her and slipped it over his head.
"I'll conduct a search for the other one, big guy," she promised.
At the door, they were almost awkward with each other, "I, um, well..." they said in unison.
She put her hands on his chest, "Me, first. Thank you. That's kind of trite, I guess. For...everything. I feel...very cherished."
His throat thickened as he pulled her into his arms, "You're welcome. And it was just...better than I imagined."
"Partners?" she murmured into his chest.
"Partners," he kissed her lips tenderly.
"Good night," he ambled to his car.
"Good night," she smiled as she stood in the doorway.
Dee Dee strolled into the kitchen and set out the ingredients for the ganache and put it together, working to put an extra pour where Hunter had left a divit. She arranged the cake layers on a plate, and put it in the fridge. Next, she fried the potato puffs, knowing that they could be finished in the oven tomorrow. She was bone tired as she made her way up the stairs, even more so that she had to be up at zero dark thirty for the sunrise service.
Rick was equally tired, knowing he had to be up to get his mom and take her to Mass in the morning. He let his mind wander to the afternoon and evening, feeling a contentment that he scarcely remembered having. It wasn't just the sex, it was the connection between them. They were bonded in a way he feared might happen, at least for his part. Lapsed Catholic he was, what kind of confession that would be, a sardonic grin crossing his face. He fell into bed, his brain finally shutting down.
She crawled between the sheets, not bothering to remake the bed. She rather liked smelling his cologne on her pillow, and the memories of the afternoon. Her dreams were sweet, untroubled.
The night was too short, as Rick got ready for church. He had bought his mom an orchid to wear, and complimented her on her dress and hat. He was in a great mood as he tooled down the road, his mom smiling beside him.
"So, did you take Dee Dee the food I made?" Lucia inquired.
"I sure did and she loved it," he grinned. "I'm sure she'll tell you herself, she said she would."
"She's a good girl, raised right," his mom nodded.
"Yeah, she is," Rick felt a little flush of guilt.
When they got out at the church, Lucia stood on tiptoe to straighten his tie. Behind his ear, she saw a telltale mark, "Ricky! Tu ragazzaccio! She wagged a finger at her unrepentant son, and muttered a few more choice words in her native tongue.
"Ma, will you cut it out? We're at church!" he sighed. He understood enough to know that his mom was criticizing his taste in women and extracurricular activities. He resisted the urge to tell her just who was responsible for said activities the day before.
Dee Dee rolled out of bed and felt like she was a zombie, putting on her makeup and dressing in the pre dawn light. "Why, oh, why did I say I would go to sunrise service?" she groaned as she put the cake and potato puffs in the car.
Her mom was waiting, tapping her foot as Dee Dee rushed into her child hood home to put the food away.
"Sorry, Mom, overslept," she apologized.
"Well, use some of those daredevil skills your partner taught you to get us there on time," Carrie huffed. She was no fan of Rick Hunter.
Dee Dee put the car in drive and considered going Code 3 to get to the service. But they made it to the little park behind the chancellery just in time. She took a seat next to her cousin Barbara as the minister began the service.
"Good to see you, cuz," Barb whispered, hugging her.
"You, too," Dee Dee returned her hug.
"Girls!" Carrie and Barb's mom Helen scolded in a whisper. Sisters scolding the cousins for less than decorous behavior, like they were still kindergartners.
"See me in the ladies room after," Barb hissed in her cousin's ear.
Dee Dee shot her a strange look before focusing her attention on the service. Now that she was here, she found comfort and hope in the message. Like the dawn of a new day, she grinned to herself.
It was full daylight as Barb tugged Dee Dee into the church.
"Hey, what's up with you?" she demanded. "I wanted to say hello to Pastor Stanton and his family."
"Um, in a minute. So, how was your day yesterday? I thought you were going to just hang out at home and veg," Barb asked.
"I-uh, did. Was out late Friday night, I told you that yesterday morning," Dee Dee responded.
"Uh-huh," she nodded. "What about yesterday afternoon?"
"Is this the inquisition?" McCall was exasperated. "I got together with a friend."
"Anyone I know?" Barb countered, pointing to a couple areas on her neck.
"What? Oh, damn it," she swore under breath, leaning closer to the mirror. Sure enough, one hickey behind her ear, the other on the side of her neck. She reached into her purse for concealer.
"Anyone I know?" Barb laughed.
"Shut up," Dee Dee worked to camouflage the damage. "This is not the time."
"As long as you had a good time," her cousin shook with giggles.
"I did," her tone was indignant.
"I'm happy for you," Barb laughed. "I'd be happier if I knew a name."
"Not going to happen," Dee Dee snapped her purse shut and stomped out.
The partners managed to enjoy the rest of their Sunday with their respective families.
Dee Dee stripped the bed linens and discovered Rick's t shirt tangled in the duvet at the end of the bed. She picked it up and nearly tossed it in the laundry with the sheets, but hesitated. "Hell with it," she murmured. He wouldn't miss it. She put it on and crawled between the fresh sheets. She didn't admit it to herself, but she did that with one of Steve's shirts for months.
She was up early the next morning, frying the rest of the potato poopies and carefully putting them in a paper bag. The butterflies were back as she swung into the parking lot. The object of said butterflies, leaning against the Monaco, looking for all the world like he had not a care. Tight jeans, buttoned down shirt and tie. Those aviator shades and a toothpick hanging out of his mouth.
Hunter was outwardly unruffled, but inwardly wondering if things would be the same for them. Regret? Nerves?
She pulled into the space next to him and reached for the slightly greasy paper bag, "Your breakfast," she grinned.
"McCall, my favorite," he briefly kissed her."You remembered!"
"Hunter, it is my mission to contribute to your junk food addiction," she laughed, elbowing him lightly, the ice broken."Did you have a nice weekend?"
"It was great!" he grinned, wiggling his eyebrows. "Yours?"
"The best," she laughed, eyes twinkling.
His head bent to hers and they continued to banter back and forth.
The kiss and the ensuing repartee weren't lost on IA's eagle eye, Bernie Terwilliger. "Who do those two think they're fooling?" he muttered, stomping into headquarters. He went into a meeting with Captain Wyler and Lieutenant Finn, still steaming.
Hunter and McCall took their seats at their respective desks, chatting away. She picked up one of her files, and perched on the corner of his desk,swinging one leg slightly, swatting the sports page out of his hands. This was the dance they did every day, her affectionately scolding him while he was amused by her diligence. Squabbling about who bought the coffee last, settling their latest bet on a sports event. Nothing new.
"Look, Bernie, what is your problem today?" Wyler was irritated by Terwilliger, which was also a usual occurrence. The goal of the meeting was discussing changes in the division, including promotions and change of leadership.
He went over to the door and pointed out to the bullpen, "My problem? Those two flaunting regulations. Again."
Finn shook his head, "I don't see anything different than usual. And their solve rate is just fine." He was new to the division, but their methods got results.
Wyler agreed, "Look, they may not be the recruiting poster detectives, but they get the job done. IA shouldn't have any quarrel with Hunter and McCall at the moment."
"But sir! I saw them in the parking lot, acting very friendly this morning." Bernie was apoplectic.
"This is the police department, not a convent," Wyler dismissed him. "Now, back to the issues at hand."
Oooh, that's chapter 1. What do you think?