This work of fiction is purely for entertainment and no infringement is intended. Nor is it anywhere near good enough for profit, so that's not an issue. R&I has ended as we know it, this is my attempt at denial.
Chapter 1.
"For the last time," Jane sighed, she knew she was getting nowhere but was desperate to convince her best friend. "Maura," she said firmly, "I think this is a really, really bad idea."
"Your concern is duly noted detective. But really Jane, I'll be under your almost constant supervision and besides I've done undercover work before." Maura tittered about in her extensive wardrobe, appropriating the best attire. Jane shifted at the edge of the bed, where she sat with her head in her hands.
"Yes Maura, I'm completely aware you've done undercover work before," Jane's mind shifted a gear momentarily as the standout memory from that case came to the fore. She pushed it away and mentally chastised herself for it, "but it wasn't the owner of the club we were investigating…. At that time." She corrected herself, "and you weren't in the firing line!" Her tone was deliberately pointed and more than a little desperate.
Maura stopped shifting around in her hanging dresses and turned to face her friend.
"Jane, you will be there with me most of the night. And you're playing an exponentially more dangerous role than myself. I will blend into a sea of bar staff. You on the other hand will be up front and centre and stand out like a painful thumb." Jane knew that Maura could never 'blend in', she always stood out even in the biggest crowds, she often wondered how her friend couldn't see it.
"The phrase is 'sore thumb' Maura." Jane said as she rubbed her eyes, exasperated that her attempts were clearly getting her nowhere. "OK well, at least let's go over the code words." If her best friend was going to be involved in this undercover operation she wanted to know that she could communicate with her if she needed too without giving either of them away.
The blonde had turned back to her ridiculously large wardrobe and seemed once again to be choosing between several outfits.
"Great idea Jane. You start."
In the weeks previous a murder/suicide case has caused them to close in on a blackmail scandal, most likely being operated out of one of the more 'upmarket' of Boston's underground clubs. Hence the need for undercover work. The Serious Crimes division, who they were know working alongside had suggested a 'double-pronged' approach, an insider and a new member of the club. Whilst she felt Frost would have been a better candidate for a high roller, when Maura indicated an interest for more field work, Jane immediately pulled rank and despite facing serious criticism received the OK to do it herself.
"This isn't like an exam Maura." She flopped back onto the bed, tired of playing out scenarios in her head, which always, ultimately landed Maura in danger.
"Of course it is Jane," she muttered absently "I find this way easier to etch into my long term memory. Fire away."
Jane groaned.