A/N: sorry we skipped posting a chapter last week, but we both had a bad case of real life and needed a brief hiatus.

Anyway, this week, Jessica is beginning her undercover assignment on Maxco's curling team, and the team is participating in a bonspiel, which is a tournament. Easy peasy, right? Read on to find out...

Aubrey stood in their bedroom doorway, watching his girlfriend pack as Skinner sat on the bed supervising her work. "I'm not happy about this, Jess."

Jessica continued packing the small suitcase without looking up at him. "I know you're not, Superman. You've made that abundantly clear, but it would look weird if I didn't ride with the team tomorrow up to West Virginia. If it was Genny working undercover, you would tell her to go with the team. We both know that for me to refuse to ride with them would raise questions."

"I know…", the agent sighed. "What time are we are leaving from Maxco tomorrow?"

"Craig let Dr. B know that everyone needs to be there by 11:30 so we can get on the road and get to Morgantown by 3:30. He's given the team the morning off so we can meet there around 10:30 to start packing up the van."

The agent came in and looked closer at what had been packed so far. "You're not taking any of your crotchless panties are you?", Aubrey asked in a suspicious tone. "I'm the only one who gets to see and enjoy those."

Jessica rolled her eyes. "No, Aubrey, I'm just packing what I need...I'm going to be as unsexy as I can, I promise."

Aubrey sat on the bed and watched his girlfriend put a couple of her sweaters into a duffel bag adorned with Maxco's logo. "Does the team know I'm coming, too?"

"No, they still think Cousin Genny is coming along. Booth and I came up with a plan on what to say tomorrow so no one wonders about why you're going instead."

Aubrey pet Skinner, who was stretched on his side of the bed. "At least we'll be in the same hotel. I can't believe Stephenson is covering the cost for your aunt and uncle's pricey suite...with me on the couch."

Jessica shrugged as she packed more underwear. "Well, he wants to get into my Aunt Wanda's pants…a lot."

"And yours…he wants to be in the middle of a Dr. B/Jessica sandwich, even though she's your aunt. Yuck. He's a fucking perv who's old enough to be your father...and mine.", Aubrey bit back. "He keeps trying to touch you inappropriately, and I've seen him looking at your ass…"

"I know. Lori flirts with him, but I've watched him with Sandra and I think they've hooked up already...it's so yucky. It wouldn't surprise me if he tries putting the moves on Dr. B this weekend or propositions me." Jessica sighed. "Don't worry...we'll see each other tomorrow night after we all get to West Virginia, Superman. Stephenson is taking the team and the families out to dinner, remember? Some really nice place, too, so the food will be good."

Aubrey got up and hugged his girlfriend. "I don't give a shit about the food right now…I'm worried. I know you can take care of yourself but once we get there, any contact we have…we have to be careful so you don't get caught."

"I know…I'm worried, too, Aubrey, but I feel safe because you won't let anything happen to me. I know that."

"Thank you…so what's your plan for tomorrow?"

"Well, Morgantown is three hours north, so I figure I can talk to the team and see what I can shake loose from them, Alma in particular. I get a vibe from those two that they've got history. Maybe she knows about all this other stuff, too with the SEC or CEP…or at the very least she can give me ideas to lead me somewhere."

"Just be careful, Jess."

"I will." Jessica linked her arms around Aubrey and kissed him. "Now, I've had curling practice three days in a row and I could use a bath…particularly one in a jet tub. However, I need someone to massage my shoulders…arms…legs…"

"I could do that…start that water, woman!"

Aubrey swatted her butt and smiled as Jessica let him go but as soon as she went into their master bath, his smile faded. He was scared…very scared, but he had to trust her.

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

At 11:20 the next morning, the team was loading their equipment into the Maxco commercial van. Nearby Craig was speaking to Leonard Maxwell, who would be arriving separately with his wife later that night. As Jessica finished putting her bag into the vehicle, she was surprised to see a party bus pull into the parking lot. "Wow…who's that for?"

"That will be for us, ladies." Craig Stephenson walked up to the women wearing a smarmy grin. "The van will take our equipment and luggage, but we will be traveling in style like the champions we will be. No way will Histavark's team beat us again this year."

"Well, my aunt and uncle will have no problem following this, Mr. Stephenson…", Jessica said, surprised at what she saw. "It'll be easy to spot."

"Honey, I told you it's Craig…" He began to put his arm around her but Jessica moved out of the way. "Your family is going to travel with us. I want them to be comfy..."

"That's really nice of you, Mr. Stephenson. It will have plenty of room for Sandra, Lori, and Alma's guests, also."

"Actually, Sandra's cousin, Lori's parents, and Alma's sister are coming tomorrow morning." Craig stepped closer, into Jessica's personal space. "The ladies thought it would be too crowded for them, and this way the team can relax and focus on strategies for how to win the bonspiel trophy back from Histavark without distractions. My cousin has been bragging about last year's title too long."

"Your cousin?", Jessica asked innocently, .

"Yes, my cousin Alex Stevens. He's a founding partner of Histavark Enterprises along with a couple of old friends of ours. He can he a bit of…a braggart. His team barely beat ours last year—"

Alma leaned against the open doors of the van. "It was that stupid girl who couldn't get her head on straight, Craig. I told you she was the wrong choice for the team."

Craig flashed a look of annoyance at the woman before he laughed loudly. "Alma is very…particular about who plays for our team, and we disagreed about our choice of vice skip last year. Molly made a small mistake which happened to cost us the trophy, but Alma can't seem to let that go."

"Well, if you had only looked past her blonde hair and those big boobs—"

"Alma, that's enough.", Craig said forcefully, walking over to the woman and whispering harshly. Jessica didn't hear much of what was said except, "…we'll discuss this later."

Turning to her right, the intern recognized her Jeep pulling into a parking spot nearby. Soon Booth, Brennan, and Aubrey got out and walked up to the bus. When she glanced over at the other team members, she wasn't happy to see Lori checking out her boyfriend. Pushing the jealousy aside, she put on a happy face and got back into her role as Jessica Gordon.

"Hey you guys, I'm so glad you came." Jessica hugged Booth and laughed. "Thanks."

"Of course, Jessie. I'll always come see one of my girls play a sport, even a sissy one like curling." Booth let her go before walking up to Craig and sticking out his hand. "You must be Craig Stephenson…Buck Moosejaw, Jessica's uncle."

Stephenson was shocked at how firm the handshake was from a man who looked like he belonged in the 80s. "You're the famous Uncle Buck…Jessica has mentioned you many times. You're also the guys who worked on the ice at the arena this week, right?"

"We are...me and Jimmy do a lot of refrigeration work in the area..."

Craig's attention wandered to Wanda and then Jessica as the two were helping Alma load equipment. When he saw Jessica bend down to put luggage in, he felt a stir before forcing his attention back to Buck. "Jessica has been doing a wonderful job for us at Maxco these last few days. I'm hoping to make her position in the accounts receivable department permanent."

Booth saw the older man's leering at his wife's intern and decided that their suspect needed to have an understanding of how things were. "Yeah, Jessie is a good kid. I promised my brothers that I would take care of their girls when they moved out here, and I look out for them like they were my own, including making sure my niece gets a good guy who treats her with respect, you know? Like Genny's husband. He's a good guy, and that's what I want for Jessie."

"Of course. I'm keeping my...eye on her because I think she has a bright future ahead at Maxco. Sandra and Lori are still kids and I try to look out for them whenever I can as well.", Craig replied, smirking as he recalled the night before with the latter. Looking around, he noticed someone missing. "Where's Jessica's cousin?"

"The most amazing thing happened. Genny's husband got a five day leave and surprised her this morning, so I asked Jimmy to come with us instead. I didn't think you all would mind, since he works with me and…" Booth leaned in. "He's a bit sweet on Jessie…I'm thinking they would be good together."

'Yeah, but I've got the money and the power, redneck. She needs a real man…' Craig looked over at the lanky man with the large moustache who was chowing down on a Slim Jim and chasing it with a Coke. "I see. Your assistant may be disappointed, because I got the impression that Jessica was interested in someone else…someone…at Maxco."

'You idiot.' Booth smiled, shrugging a shoulder. "Well, I have a feeling that Jimmy will find out where everyone stands the next few days.", he said cryptically.

"Well, she's going to be very busy this weekend…Buck. May I call you Buck?", Craig asked, pretending to be polite. When Booth nodded, he continued while glancing at Brennan, who gave him a bright smile as she stretched her arms ahead of her, giving the older man a great view of her cleavage. "He may not get a chance to talk to her because she's going to be focusing on her team. I hope he understands that."

"I'm not too worried about that, Craig. May I call you Craig?", Booth asked in his Buck persona. "My Jessie is all work right now, but she needs to have fun, too, you know? Jimmy is right about her age, he makes a decent living as an HVAC tech, and he respects her as a person. My girls are too smart to be used by a man for a 'wham bam thank you, ma'am' deal, if you know what I mean."

'What a crude man.' Craig smiled, ignoring Buck's implication as Wanda turned to smile at him again while bending forward and lingering a few seconds. "I do appreciate Wanda's assistance with our practices this week. She has been very good for us. It's been nice getting to know her, and I'm glad Jessica's family was able to come to support her."

"My Wanda is Jessie's biggest cheerleader…very supportive of our family…very friendly, too. Sometimes, a guy takes that the wrong way, though, and I have to make sure that doesn't happen twice.", Booth said quietly. "Of course, I know that you're not that type, right, Craig?"

'Wanda is low class but those tits are going to be mine this weekend…and I'll get little Jessica to join us in a little 'victory' celebration in my room...' Stephenson heard the subtle threat in the man's tone, but didn't care. "Don't worry, Buck. My interest in your niece is strictly a professional one. As for your wife, I'm glad that Jessica has an aunt as dedicated as she is."

"Thanks…" Booth slapped the older man hard on the back. "See you on the bus, pal."

On the other side of the van, Jessica looked at Aubrey, playing her undercover role. "Hi, Jimmy. Didn't expect to see you."

"Well, since Genny's not coming after all, Buck said I could come and watch you.", Aubrey replied with a smile as his moustache filled up his face. "I have to say I'm beginning to get into this curling stuff, especially when you're playing."

Jessica sighed as she remembered how much fun and how erotic Aubrey's undercover facial wear was the night before last. Spotting Alma checking equipment next to the van, the intern put her game face on.

"Well, I'm glad you could join us, Jimmy.", Jessica replied with an apparent lack of interest. "I'm not going to have time for cheap flirting, though. I have serious work to do this weekend. Keep that in mind, okay?"

"Maybe we can talk later tonight."

"Maybe." Jessica nodded. "Now if you'll excuse me, Alma needs my help loading the van."

As Jessica helped Alma, Stephenson shook off Booth's hard blow as he walked up to Sandra, who was sending a text, and he subtly rubbed her butt. "You did a good job last night, young lady…and there'll be a nice bonus added on to your next check. There's an even bigger one if you can finish that other job tonight..you know...that one that we talked about. Just remember to come by my room when you're done and let me know how it goes."

Sandra giggled, playing her part. "Of course, Craig…anything for you…"

Unbeknownst to everyone, Alma was standing nearby and had heard everything. "Alright…alright…everyone come on! We have a bonspiel to win! Let's get on the road!"

'Here we go.' Jessica thought as she led the group onto the bus. She sat down in the middle, where she was joined by Brennan, with Alma heading towards the back while her other teammates sat nearby. Her trepidation grew into annoyance when she saw Lori flirting with Aubrey. As much as she wanted to go over and rip the girl's hair out, she remained where she was.

'I trust Aubrey…we're undercover…I'll nail the bitch later…'

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

Thirty minutes into the ride, Jessica was reading her phone, trying to ignore Lori's conversation with Aubrey when she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to Brennan, who subtly nodded towards the back of the bus, where Alma and Craig were having a quiet, but heated discussion. "I wonder what they're talking about."

"Perhaps we should find out. The restroom is nearby. Perhaps one of us could go and listen in.", Brennan suggested.

"I'll do it. I can also stop at the fridge like I'm deciding on what to drink.", Booth said. "He underestimates me, and if he doesn't have either of you to gawk at, he'll relax. Be right back."

Booth passed by Aubrey, who barely kept his eyes from rolling as he listened to Lori's attempts at flirting. When the older man got closer, he opened the mini fridge and listened.

"Did you really have to grab her ass in front of everybody, Craig?"

"Grab her ass? I barely touched the girl, Alma. This jealous streak of yours is very unflattering, you know. You obviously don't trust me...I really thought we'd gotten past this, but I guess not."

Alma became defensive as she saw Craig brooding. "I'm sorry, Craig. I know you care about me…it's just…when I see you flirting with those girls again…it's...it hurts..."

"Alma, yeah, I flirt, but…I care about you, and we've talked about this. Sandra has a crush on me and I'm just trying to get her to trust me. Her father works for the IRS and she can find out if they're onto us. That's all…I'm so tired of explaining all this to you..."

"Craig, of course I trust you, it's just...the way you act sometimes...it makes me think you care more for that damn agreement Harold made with Histavark about CEP than me..."

"Alma, you're spoiling for a fight with me and I won't let you do it right before this bonspiel. You want me to lose to Alex again? Huh?"

"No, but—"

"Then quit asking for trouble…if you keep talking about CEP, all my work on protecting the company could go up in smoke. Do you want that little asshole Leonard to find out? He's stupid enough to ruin everything, and then Maxco will be destroyed. I can't fix what happened if people find out about it. If the wrong people find out or it goes public, the government will be up our asses. I could get blamed and that means I could be deported back to Canada. Do you want that? Huh? You'd be out of work, too, you know...with no way to pay for that nice car of yours, but if that's what you want..."

"Of course not, Craig. I know what you're saying, but I still think if you went to Leonard and told him what happened—"

"I've told you why that can't happen, Alma. Mr. Dudley Do-Right is not as sharp or talented as his father was. Instead of letting me finish what I have to do to fix what happened and protect the company, he'll go to the SEC and his family's legacy will be destroyed. Harold was my best friend, Alma, and I won't let his family legacy be destroyed because fast talking Croatians pulled a fast one on him and Martin. I can take care of everything without hurting the company or the Maxwell family, but to do that, you need to stop letting your jealousy get the best of you, and you need to trust me to work. I know its hard when I have to do things like flirt with other women, but soon Alma, it'll all be over, I promise."

"Okay, Craig. I'm sorry. You're right. I'll do better, I promise." Alma nodded in agreement. "Can we see each other tonight after my practice?", Alma asked hopefully.

"I'll try, Alma, but I have a meeting tonight with the group from Histavark, the CEOs from the other teams, and a few potential investors in next year's bonspiel, and it will probably run late."

"What about tomorrow night?"

Not wanting to raise suspicions, Booth shut the door and walked over to the couple. "Hey Stephenson, where's the beer? All I see is water, Coke, and Gatorade."

The CFO turned to 'Buck' with a slight sneer. "It's only noon and it's a three-hour drive. If you're looking for alcohol, there will be several sources you may take advantage of when we arrive in Morgantown, and the arena tomorrow will offer alcoholic refreshments to spectators. However, Mountain View Arena doesn't serve Icehouse or Pabst Blue Ribbon or any other cheap beer, so I would be careful how much money you spend on alcohol this evening. I would also advise you to drink wisely as so you don't embarrass your niece this weekend."

'Rich prick…' Booth smiled, shrugging slightly. "Of course not, Craig. I look out for the girls…just like I've seen you do today. Excuse me, I need to use the head."

Stiffening up, Stephenson pointed to his right. "The facilities are right next to you."

"Thanks, buddy." Booth got into the lavatory and when it was locked, pulled out his phone and sent a message to Brennan's email, asking her to send it to Aubrey when it wouldn't be suspicious.

Alma knows something about CEP. CS is in this shit up 2 his neck & is stringing Alma along 2 keep her quiet. Have J try 2 get info l8r tonite.

At the same time, Aubrey decided he needed a break from Lori's incessant chatter. When Booth returned to his seat, the lanky man got up. "Excuse me, darlin'. I have to talk to my boss about our plans for tomorrow."

"You just want to sit with that Jessica, don't you?", Lori replied petulantly. "It's obvious that she's ignoring you and she's playing hard to get with Craig. That girl doesn't appreciate you."

Keeping himself in character, Aubrey took a breath. "Trust me, she's not into your boss. Besides, I think Jessica is warming up to me. I'm going to make my move this weekend."

"Well, you're wasting your time. How about instead of trying to score with that mouse, you consider a better alternative?" Lori rubbed his arm, running her fingers over his biceps and appreciating the subtle musculature she felt. "I think moustaches and men who work hard for a living are very sexy. Now Sandra has plans later…maybe you could come by my room for a while tonight…and we can get acquainted? I'll make you forget all about that Jessica…"

'Oh shit…' Thinking on his feet, Aubrey smiled. "Tempting offer, but Buck already asked me to get a few beers with him after that fancy dinner your boss is treating us to later. Raincheck?"

Mollified, Lori let go. "Okay, Jimmy, for now."

Relieved, Aubrey sat down by Booth, muttering quietly. "Holy shit…she's annoying…and clingy."

"Yeah, plus they have no beer on this bus. What good is a party bus without the goddamn beer?", Booth said loudly. "Let's head up to the front, Jimmy, so that the girls can talk. I don't need to hear about makeup and shit."

"Right with you.", Aubrey replied, hearing the signal that Booth needed to update him on something.

Jessica looked to Brennan. "Another few hours and then it's showtime…"

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

The bus and accompanying van pulled into the hotel parking lot after 3:00, where other teams participating in the 37th Annual Appalachian Bonspiel were heading into the hotel. Inside, they were greeted with swaths of green fabric and signs saying 'Happy St. Patrick's Day' and 'Erin Go Bragh' along with a banner declaring 'Welcome Appalachian Bonspiel Curlers.'

"Wow, what a nice hotel.", Jessica commented. "Are we really staying in this fancy place?"

"We are, Jessica. Nothing but the best for my team." Craig moved to put his arm around her but was stymied again when she moved out of his way. "Now, I'll get everyone checked in, if you want to wait in the lobby."

After everyone lugged their stuff in, the group waited for Craig to check them in. Getting a sense that something was off, Aubrey walked up to the desk to the other check in clerk, who was just finishing with another guest.

"So what's the breakfast like around here?"

"Well sir, it's a continental breakfast."

"What kind of eggs do you use? That's important, you know." Making sure no one was looking, Aubrey quickly flashed his badge. "State health inspector. Get me the expiration date on those eggs right now."

"I-it's an egg mix, sir…but I'll go check if you want..." The young man saw that Aubrey meant business and excused himself. "I'll be right back."

"Take your time and do it right so I don't have to send you back again." Aubrey waited while listening to the conversation next to him.

"These are all the hotel room keys, Mr. Stephenson.", a plain woman in her late forties said to Craig. "As per your request, Wanda Moosejaw's room is next door to you and I put Alma Nelson and Jessica Gordon's room as adjoining to yours."

"Thank you, Danielle. I know that is an unusual request, but Ms. Gordon and Ms. Moosejaw are new to our bonspiels and I want to be close by if they need anything. Plus, with Alma having a late practice tonight, I want Jessica to get a restful sleep." Craig flashed a charming smile. "Now, about that other matter we discussed on the phone, Danielle. Is room 321 still booked per my specifications?"

The woman looked it up on the computer. "Yes, sir."

"I can always count on you, Danielle, to take care of my team every year." Stephenson pulled out a $100.00 dollar bill to hand to her, but was stopped by the woman.

"Craig...I don't need money. I just want one thing from you this year…I get off at 11:00 tonight. Meet me in Room 206." Danielle rather awkwardly rubbed the CFO's hand. "I find that I would prefer your company this year over your very generous monetary...rewards."

Aubrey snickered softly at the man's flash of displeasure, which was only apparent a few seconds before he smiled again. Peeking in the back, the agent could see the clerk was still searching around, so he continued to listen.

"Danielle...I would love to, but I have a meeting with the CEO of my company and other investors tonight and probably won't end until past midnight if I'm lucky. I would hate to make you wait up for me. How about rescheduling for next weekend-"

"Tonight, Craig.", Danielle replied firmly with a smile on her face. "I used my hotel discount to get us that room and I don't want to be disappointed. The favors I do for you every year sometimes get a little tricky to explain to my manager."

"Well, you know how grateful I am for all your help over the years. I'll tell you what...I'll make an excuse to leave. It may be midnight before I get there, but I'll get there."

Danielle pulled a keycard out of her pocket and across the counter. "I thought you would. I bought something special to wear, too. Just for you. Until tonight."

"Until tonight.", Craig replied with a pained smile. Turning around, his smile turned into a grimace as he debated on what to do. 'That homely cow is not going to ruin the plans I have tonight for Jessica after I enjoy time with Sandra.'

Seeing the man returning to the group, Aubrey was getting antsy until his clerk returned. "The expiration date is May 12, 2017."

"Good, good. I appreciate your honesty…" The agent looked at his name tag. "Dave. I would also appreciate you keeping my presence here on the DL since I'm working undercover in all the hotels on this block today and tomorrow. You do that and I'll make sure my colleagues in Charleston know how cooperative you were."

"Yes, sir."

As he was rejoining the group, Aubrey sent a message to Angela asking her to use her magic computer skills to find out who was in Room 321. He paused as he overheard Stephenson talking to everyone about the evening's plans.

"I'll let everyone get settled in. Sandra and Lori are in 312, Jessica and Alma are in 304, I have the adjoining suite in 303. Buck, Wanda I tried to get 305 but I was able to get the suite in 302 so you are across from each other. My room is the corner suite."

"Want to take three guesses why Sandra and Lori are down the hall while Jessica and Alma have the adjoining suite to the old man?", Aubrey muttered to Booth.

"No kidding.", Booth replied back before being smacked by Brennan. "Ow…"

"We have reservations at 5:30 in the hotel restaurant, Montmartre, which is up on the 8th floor. Dress is upscale…" Craig looked at Booth and Aubrey. "...unfortunately that means no denim or shorts. Button up shirts...nice pants. Do you two have those available? I can make arrangements if you two need to do some shopping."

Booth smiled at the man's condescending tone. "I think we'll manage, Craigie."

Stephenson cringed at the nickname. "After that, it's back to your rooms, ladies, except for Alma, who has requested some extra ice time. Jessica, you'll have the room to yourself tonight."

Realizing what Stephenson had planned, Jessica jumped in. "I think I want to work with Alma tonight. Sandra and Lori can join us if they want."

"We've already got plans…", Lori replied.

"Jessica, you don't need anymore practice and I'm sure you need your rest. Alma as Skip needs to refine her game…"

"Actually, Craig, I think I'll take Jessica with me so we can work together.", Alma replied, challenging him to say no.

Aubrey felt his phone buzz. Getting it, he read the message from Angela. Sending a quick response, he put his focus back onto the group, which was heading up to their rooms through the busy lobby. Standing close to Jessica, Aubrey fell back into 'Jimmy' mode.

"So, Jessica...after this dinner and after I get a beer with Buck...want to maybe take a walk? It's kind of a nice night for two people to be out…"

Seeing that Craig was nearby, Jessica turned to her boyfriend. "I don't know, Jimmy. I have to practice with Alma and then get some rest. We'll see, okay?"

The elevator opening, everyone got in with Aubrey and Craig bringing up the rear. Turning to the older man, Aubrey smiled before getting in. "She wants me."

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

At 5:15, Booth and Brennan were the first downstairs to the restaurant, followed by Aubrey, who was wrapping up his call. "Thanks again, Angela. At least we've fixed this part of the bonspiel. Yeah...we'll talk to you later. Bye."

As Aubrey joined the two, they watched as Danielle was being escorted out of the hotel by what looked to be the hotel manager. "We'll, she won't be meeting up with her Craigie tonight."

"Well, one shouldn't take bribes, monetary, or sexual, to break the rules. The other part is taken care of, correct?", Brennan asked.

"Yeah. Angela said the hotel manager called back to reassure her that the rooms were switched and the president of the curling association thanked us for our efforts and assured Angela that she will be sending a new judge tonight.", Aubrey snickered. "It's too bad the original judge had an emergency..."

"Yeah, being threatened with exposure as a judge who exchanges sex for favoritsm during competition can be scary." Booth saw the rest of the group coming. "Here comes everyone, folks. Wow...Aubrey, remember...behave yourself tonight."

"I know how to be a professional, Booth...what the hell?" Aubrey's eyes got large when he saw his girlfriend as the group approached. "Where the hell is the rest of her dress?"

"Aubrey...remember we're undercover…", Brennan said.

"I'm fine, Dr. B...I'm fine.", Aubrey remarked, gasping as he saw her in her blue knit dress that ended two inches above the knee. It hugged all of her subtle curves so well. Noting her amped up cleavage, he realized she was wearing a push up bra. 'Wait a minute...she's wearing that really sexy black date night bra...but she's not supposed to be hot for that asshole Craig Stephenson!'

Jessica saw the look on Aubrey's face when she walked up with everyone. Seeing his eyes change, she shivered at how dangerous he looked. 'Oh Aubrey...just be patient…'

Lori, who was wearing a short sleeved blue mini dress with white polka dots and a plunging neckline so 'Jimmy' would notice her was ticked to see his eyes solely on her teammate. Determined to win him over, she boldly walked up to him, put her arm around him and rubbed his butt in front of Jessica. "Jimmy...looking good. Oops, dropped my purse."

When she bent down to pick it up, Aubrey's eyes widened as she stood back up. "Guess what I'm not wearing right now, Jimmy."

Aubrey thought Lori was attractive but also she wore too much makeup, and she was trying too hard with a dress that barely held her breasts and body in check. The fact that she advertised that she wasn't wearing any underwear only made her less appealing. If Jessica surprised him with no panties, he'd be all over her and right now, he appreciated Jessica's subtle sexiness more than ever. However, he had to play his role.

"S-so do you." Squirming to move her hand, the agent caught the daggers his girlfriend was shooting their way. 'Sorry, Jess…'

Stephenson's attention moved back and forth between Jessica and 'Wanda', who was wearing a flowing mini dress with a plunging neckline and thick chunky heels. Her hair was teased higher than normal and her lipstick was a brighter red. He knew that on most women it would be gaudy, but on her it only made him hard as a rock. She wasn't his usual type, but he couldn't help it. He wanted her...and her niece and was determined to get them both this weekend. Alma was making things difficult but he would give her enough attention to keep her quiet and happy a little bit longer. He had a plan for her this weekend after they won the bonspiel to make sure she wouldn't be a bother any longer.

He looked over at Buck and Jimmy, who wore casual black pants on and button up shirts, one in cranberry and the other in blue. He couldn't deny that the men had cleaned up well, but it was how the women were giving the younger men their attention that infuriated him. His plan was to make them look bad so he could be the sophisticated option.

Craig knew he wasn't imagining things whenever Wanda looked at him, obviously open for business with him. Jessica was proving to be harder than anticipated, but he had a plan for that as well. Buck and Jimmy had nothing on him. Danielle threw him with her demands but he would take care of her tonight as well. Nobody threatened him and got away with it.

As the host showed them to their large corner table, Stephenson put on a face of charm and congeniality to hide his thoughts. He had too much on the line to blow it now on irritation from hicks and mousy women. Seeing open chairs on each side of Jessica, his spirits lifted and he headed over, his fingers tingling in anticipation of feeling those long creamy legs.

As Jessica sat down, she groaned when she saw Craig heading towards her. She wanted his attention on her but then realized his busy fingers may find her at dinner and it made her ill. However, before he could sit by her, someone stopped him.

"Mr. Stephenson, you don't mind if I sit next to my niece, do ya?", Brennan asked, chewing her gum noisily. Subtly shifting so her cleavage was more prominent, she smiled. "We're super close, my Jessie and I...we're so proud of her for playing for your team…"

'That gum smacking is revolting…but those tits...' Stephenson smirked. "Not at all, Wanda. I'll just sit next to you here-"

"Actually I'm going to sit next to my Wanda. After all...she's my wife.", Booth as Buck replied with a smile on his face. 'Gotcha fucker.'

'Mullet headed dick. You won't be so cocky once I get in your wife's panties this weekend.' Stephenson smiled again. "Of course. I'll just sit next to Jessica here-"

"Oh boy, I'm thirsty." Aubrey sipped the water sitting in front of him as he sat down on Jessica's left side. "Oh, were you going to sit here, Mr. Stephenson?"

"That's all right...Jimmy." Looking around, he saw the only open seat was next to Alma. However, Sandra was on the other side and he could enjoy her thighs in between courses.

Watching Stephenson sit down, Aubrey held back a smirk and when no one was looking, moved his hand up his girlfriend's inner thigh. When he reached her panties, he got a quick feel and liked that he felt dampness before she removed his hand. Seeing the surprised and irritated look on her face, Aubrey merely shrugged.

"You look very pretty tonight, Jessica."

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

After dinner, Jessica returned to the room with Alma and after a quick change, went with her to the arena, which was about ten minutes away. Walking inside, they saw a few players practicing for the bonspiel. After getting their lane assignment, the two women walked down and began setting up.

"Alma...can I ask you a personal question?"

The older woman shrugged. "Sure, Honey. What do you want to know?"

Playing reluctance, Jessica shifted her vision to the floor. "If I'm being a snoop tell me, but are you and Mr. Stephenson an item?"

Alma stopped what she was doing before turning around. "Why would you ask something like that, Honey?"

Knowing she had to tread carefully, Jessica examined the stones nearby and was surprised that they weren't as heavy as usual, but she kept that thought to herself. "Well, you said he was a horn dog, but...you were alone with him on the bus today and you two...have a vibe."

Alma held onto the broom and contemplated the question. "We have...something. I've always thought he was handsome. We'd flirt but did nothing about it...until about seven months ago. I've been divorced for five years and he's single and never been married...and the sex is pretty good. We don't want to advertise it because he doesn't want people to look at me differently at work. I...he does like to flirt and I didn't want you to get the wrong idea, but...I…"

The older woman looked down at the ice and back up at the young woman. "Listen, Jessica. Craig is a good looking man for his age and I know he likes to look around, but he always comes back to me. I'm the one he loves. I know you're not interested in him that way, but...I have to make sure people don't get the wrong idea about him being available, you know?"

Jessica couldn't believe an attractive woman like Alma had settled for a pig like Craig Stephenson. However, for now, she had to keep her opinion to herself. "Yeah, I get that. He's...an attractive man for his age. I won't tell anyone."

"Thank you. Now, how about we set up some guards and I'll sweep for you."

"Okay." Picking up another stone, she once again noticed the weight difference. "Alma, these stones look...different."

Walking up to Jessica she looked it over. "Yeah, I noticed that several years ago and Craig told me that the arena gets theirs specially made from a company in Croatia. Same quality at a good rate. I guess the granite in Croatia is easier to mine or something... "

"They feel different, though. Does it affect the way the stones move? Regulation curling stones are only made in the UK by Kays. That's what the WCF uses, and those are the only ones I've ever played with. Don't you find it weird that they'd use different ones here?"

"Yeah, honey, but that's what we're using. Do yourself a favor...don't ask too many questions, alright? Just concentrate on winning this thing. Craig's going to be a bear if our team loses to Histavark again. I'm just glad we have you and not that insipid Molly Chandler this year. What a loser. I'm pretty sure she lied when she said she was an experienced vice skip, but Craig had his mind on other things, if you catch my drift. Of course, they way she flipped that blonde hair of hers and always flashed her boobs, she was always trying to get a man's attention instead of working."

"Oh…" Jessica lined up and tossed the stone, landing right Alma wanted it to go. "So, she really messed up your chances last year, huh?"

"Yeah." Alma leaned against the broom. "She was decent in practice but choked in competition. She also was such an annoying snoop, you know?"

Jessica felt goosebumps prickle up on her arm. "Really?"

"Yeah. She kept asking questions about how Maxco and Histavark partnered up for this arena and other random stuff like when the deliveries came here, the routes taken when the electronics left the warehouses and other crap that didn't concern someone who worked in the Accounts Receivable department. Of course, she took off after we lost. Never showed back up to work or anything…never even gave notice. Good riddance, I say."

"Yeah...sounds like it.", Jessica said, making a note to pass the name along to Aubrey.

The women took turns throwing stones until Alma spoke up. "Jessica, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure, Alma." Jessica silently debated on what stone to use, finally selecting one.

"For a woman who seems not that interested in that Jimmy, you were looking at him a lot earlier. I know that idiot Lori likes him, but he only has eyes for you. He seems nice."

Staying in her role, Jessica lined up in the hack. "Yeah, he is. I just moved here though and...I don't know…"

"Honey...give him a chance. You know, you should take that walk with him tonight when we get back to the hotel."

Not wanting to be too eager, Jessica shrugged. "But Mr. Stephenson said he wanted us to practice tonight."

"Jessica, that Sandra is probably going to jump into another curler's bed tonight and Lori is sniffing after Jimmy. I'm confident you will do fine tomorrow. Now, it's after 9:00. Let's head back so you can spend a little time with Jimmy before Lori gets her claws in him and then you can get some sleep."

Not wanting to waste the opportunity given, Jessica smiled. "Okay, I'll go see Jimmy, but no promises, Alma."

Relieved that the young woman will be out of Craig's orbit tonight, Alma smiled. "Okay…"

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

At the hotel bar, Booth and Aubrey were at a side table enjoying a couple of beers. Nearby, they observed Craig Stephenson talking to Alex Stephens, Andrea Clark, her husband, and a couple of men they didn't recognize. Taking a sip, Booth looked over at an anxious Aubrey. "She'll be here soon, Aubrey. Relax."

"I know, but Jess said she wanted to talk and it might be important to the case, Booth."

"Good. Then we can try to do some follow up on it tonight if it's viable. Tomorrow we have to keep our eyes and ears on at that arena." Booth looked over towards the door and waved.

"Yeah...here she is." Aubrey stood up. "Hey, Jessie."

"Hey, Uncle Buck...Jimmy." Staying in her role, Jessica walked over, noting Craig Stephenson talking to a group of people. "So...if you're still interested in that walk, we can go for a short time. I have to be up early tomorrow for the games, though."

Aubrey finished his beer. "Cool...alright...good night, Buck."

"Take your time, kids...Wanda and I are going to be busy later if you know what I mean…we wanna take advantage of that fancy king sized bed.", Booth said as Buck loud enough for Craig to hear.

Aubrey wasn't looking forward to the couch in the suite. "Yeah...okay, let's go, Jess...ie."

Booth wasn't surprised to see Craig watch the two leave the bar area with a look of annoyance and jealousy. Keeping his smile to himself, he sat back with his beer, waiting for the man to walk over, and wasn't disappointed.

"Buck...that Jimmy isn't going to keep Jessica out late is he?", Craig asked. "I need my lead to be on top of her game, not worn out because someone is looking to scratch an itch."

Booth sat back and smiled. "Don't you worry, Craigie. Jimmy will take good care of her. He's a good guy who respects my niece. Anyone who doesn't respect my niece...or my Wanda...will get my boot in his ass."

"Well...good." Craig held back a retort, looking around the room. "Where's Wanda?"

"She's back at the room, talking to her sister on the phone." Booth chugged down the last of his beer. "I should get back. She's going to be needing to take her Buck Truck for a ride soon...and I'm going to take care of her...all night long."

'Crude son of a bitch...I'll get my time.' Craig smiled. "I should get back to my room, too. Sandra is coming back to discuss...strategy for tomorrow. Now, you won't see much of Jessica tomorrow. We're having a team breakfast at 6:30 before heading over to the arena for morning practice. Your tickets will be at the front window of Mountain View Arena."

"Well, as long as we have good seats to see our Jessie play and the beer there is cold I'm all good." Booth stood up and slapped the older man's back again before walking away. "Night, Craigie."

"Good night, Buck."

Craig watched the man walk away until he was interrupted by a man with a foreign accent. "Who is that?"

"That cretin is an uncle to one of my players. He's nobody."

"No, that man with him...the skinny one. He looks familiar."

"That guy with the big, ugly moustache? Nah…" Craig shook his head in disgust. "He's just some skinny runt that works with Jessica's uncle. He's nobody, too. Forget about him, Josip. We've got other things to worry about this weekend."

"No problems, Stephenson. We've had enough delays and we can't have any difficulties tomorrow like last year."

"Josip, when have I failed you?"

"May I remind you of how Philip Aubrey almost ruined things last year when he returned to the States? That sin šupak (asshole's son) is an agent with your country's Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stephenson. We can't afford that kind of trouble again."

"Hey, I fixed it, didn't I? Philip has been taken care of and he's doing better than ever with helping us. Quit worrying. Now let's get back to the others and finish our plan, shall we? I'll even spring for the next round of grappa."

Craig's smile ended when the man walked back. Josip was always paranoid about things. "That Jimmy is just a piece of shit nobody who's trying to fuck Jessica, but that little girl is mine, damn it. I'll have her on her back by tomorrow night, screaming my name."

*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*/*

At the same time, Aubrey and Jessica strolled along Morgantown's waterfront as she updated him on what had happened earlier with Alma.

"Her name is Molly Chandler. I don't know much else except that literally right after they lost, she disappeared. Alma figures she just quit and took off, but…"

"Yeah, something's off." Aubrey sent a quick text. "I'll have Genny look into it tonight. She can remote in from home."

"I hate doing that to her."

"I know, but we need her. This way she's still part of this case because she's going nuts being stuck at the Hoover.." Aubrey wanted to put his arm around her but settled for holding her hand in case someone was watching. "So Craig and Alma are an item, huh?"

"More like she's around when he wants some. It's so sad, Aubrey. He's such a pig…"

"I know, but it sounds like Alma knows a lot about the set up. You did good, Jess. Really good." Aubrey pulled her closer. "Except for wearing that dress…"

"Hey, it would be suspicious if I wore a flannel nightgown to dinner.", Jessica chuckled. "Thank you for saving me at dinner. Sitting by him...ugh…it would've ruined my appetite."

"Of course. It made copping a feel much easier...man you were so wet for me earlier...", Aubrey chuckled until he got smacked on the arm.

"James Aubrey I can't believe you groped me at dinner!" Jessica admonished as they got back to the hotel.

"Well, I'm going to be lonely for the next couple of days, woman. I had to take what I can get because I can't rub one out while staying in the same room with Booth and Dr. B.." Aubrey opened the door for his girlfriend and they entered the hotel lobby, where they saw Craig Stephenson sitting in one of the chairs. "Hey, guess who waited up for you?"

Getting up, Stephenson headed over to the couple, steam practically coming out of his ears after all the problems he'd had to straighten out. First, there were possible complications to the plan and it took all he had to reassure his Croatian partners that things would smoothly as opposed to the complications of last year, and then Sandra was surprised at the judge's hotel room by a middle aged woman being there instead of Thompson. On top of that, his plan to surprise Jessica in her room had failed thanks to Alma's encouraging her to go to practice and then spend time with that hooligan Jimmy.

"Jessica...I was worried about you. You should be resting. We have a big day ahead of us tomorrow."

"Mr. Stephenson, I'm fine. I just went out with Jimmy for a while, but I'm good."

Aubrey looked at his watch. "It's 9:50, man. What is she, a pumpkin?"

Craig looked scornfully at the younger man. "She has an important tournament tomorrow and she needs her rest. Now, I can escort her back to the room-"

"I can walk her there. She wanted to say good night to her aunt and uncle first. Surely, you understand that?", Aubrey wore a cocky smirk. "I'll be a gentleman. I promise."

Realizing he was stuck, Stephenson acquiesced. "Of course, but then don't stay up late, Jessica. We need you at your best. Don't forget the team breakfast is at 6:30."

"I won't, Mr. Stephenson. Good night."

"Good night."

The couple watched Stephenson storm away and giggled until Aubrey's phone buzzed. Reading the message, both were concerned.

Got info u needed. Go find Booth & Dr. B. Calling them in 2 minutes.

Hurrying up to the suite, Aubrey and Jessica came in as Brennan's Skype rang on her laptop. Answering, Genny appeared in her home office.

"Genny, what have you got?"

"That Molly lady...her name was listed as Molly Chandler and she was a temporary employee of Maxco from what Angela could find. However, her real name was Michaela Reedson. She was last seen at the Appalachian Bonspiel March 20, 2016. She was found dead April 12th, about three miles from where we found Vacchio, with two bullet holes in the back of her head."

"Really?" Jessica felt a chill run down her spine.

"Yeah, and another thing. She was an undercover cop with the West Virginia State Police and was investigating drug smuggling at Mountain View Arena."

"Oh…shit!", Brennan gasped.

"Yeah…'oh shit' is right.", Booth replied. "That definitely changes things."