DISCLAIMER: I do NOT own The A-Team or any of its characters. I do NOT gain any profit from this fan-fiction. It is strictly for my entertainment and anyone who enjoys reading it! Lyrics (in order mentioned) are used from Running Up that Hill (Kate Bush), Fix You (Coldplay), Nothing Left (Delain), What Have You Done (Within Temptation). Scene dialogue where A-Team are secured in the arm car towards the end after turning in Lynch come from the movie.
CLAIMER: I OWN my OMC Ashton Kensington.
WARNING: This is a SLASH / MALE x MALE / YAOI fan-fiction. If you do NOT like same-sex relationships, then this story is NOT for you. Slight AU. Friends to lovers. Medical inaccuracies. Overprotective Murdock. Open-ending?
GENRE: Angsts, hurt/comfort, romance, violence, fluff.
BETA READER: None, so there will be some mistakes that I miss.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: I found out after I have chosen Hamish as Murdock's name, that Hannibal tended to call him Henry. Instead of changing it to Henry, I decided to keep Hamish. Please read the disclaimer. Songs are not mine. Story excerpts are not mine. Part of dialogue from the film is included towards the end and listed in the disclaimer.
.:oOo:.
It has been a month since H.M. Murdock was brought into the Army Psychiatric Hospital located in Mannheim, Germany for his ten-year sentence following the death (read: murder) of General Russell Morrison. The month was spent feeling out the atmosphere and testing his limits on how far he could push the staff and how much he could get away with.
Murdock became enamored at first sight with a new arrival at the facility a week into his second month. From the man's disheveled pitch-black locks that appeared to be naturally windswept, to his piercing gray eyes. Lightly tan skin stretched over toned muscles and if Murdock were to guess, the man stood at least three inches taller than his own six feet tall figure.
'Ashton Kensington,' Murdock read to himself, his green eyes scanning his infatuation's file. 'Curious…a majority of Kensington's file is redacted.'
Muffled voices drawing closer forced Murdock to slip the file back in its original slot and slink out of the darkened office in order not to be caught snooping. Sneaking back to his assigned room was easy, having learned every turn, every camera, and every positioned staff member. Silently agreeing with himself to finally speak with the raven tomorrow, Murdock went over possible scenarios and how he should go about introducing himself.
.:oOo:.
Murdock frowned at the sight of Kensington during breakfast served in the cafeteria that was open only to those less inclined to cause harm to themselves and others. A heavy cloud of lethargy draped over Kensington's shoulders; his appearance enhanced by the dark circles surrounding dull gray orbs. Murdock inwardly cursed, spotting the drug-induce cause almost immediately. Kensington's hands remained unmoving in his lap, not once taking a bite of the healthy food options provided by the facility nor the cup of juice offered in a flimsy plastic cup.
Forcing a dopey smile onto his face, Murdock slid onto the smooth stool across from Kensington. He only received a slow, delayed blink when clumsily dropping his food tray onto the table. The empty stare pulled at something deep within Murdock's chest and he promised himself in that moment to help the raven out of the forced placid countenance.
"I'm Murdock. I am pleased to meet you…," Murdock introduced himself, making sure to glance down at the other's wrist band that listed all patient's last names and their first initials. "Kensington."
When that did not get a response, something Murdock expected when realizing the other's drugged state, he continued speaking while picking up a piece of toast and slathering on some jam.
"Can I call you Kenzie? It won't be like Mackenzie, but a sort of nickname for Kensington. Wow, that sure is a mouthful," Murdock spoke in his quick mannered way, before taking a bite of his toast. "Not that I mind saying—."
Murdock looked up and froze with his toast still at mouth level. Those dull gray orbs were staring straight at him, but…they were not dull anymore. There was a sense of clarity shining in stunning slate gems, Murdock's mind supplied. He swallowed his hardly chewed piece of toast and barely hid his wince as it scratched down the back of his throat. Setting down his toast, he quickly grabbed his cup of juice and took a healthy gulp. Just as quickly, the clarity vanished and those beautiful orbs emptied.
.:oOo:.
His mind was fuzzy, borderline blank of thoughts and emotions, and Ashton was almost grateful for the drugs coursing through his veins that caused such a reaction. Another part of him, the soldier in him, hated feeling so defenseless…so weak. What if there was an attack? How did these people expect him to defend himself and the others?
He would have glared down at his hospital provided breakfast if the drugs running through him did not prevent such an emotional reaction. Ashton barely blinked at the new arrival at his assigned table. Assigned…he inwardly scoffed, wanting nothing more than to roll his eyes and tried to focus on something. That something turned out to be someone and his new table mate.
Messy brown locks, almost the color of tree bark and mischievous green eyes were immediately processed. So green, Ashton wondered and tried to hold onto those two words without fail as the lethargy remained heavy over him. This man was speaking, saying something about calling him by a nickname. Ashton found himself staring intently at a pair of curving lips and white teeth that took a greedy bite of toast. Ashton's gaze flickered up and caught the other's and he seriously wanted to smirk at that very moment in catching Murdock off guard.
'Murdock…what a name,' Ashton thought before his mind cleared and with it his attention began to wane.
His stomach growled, but he could not bring himself to move his arms away from his lap.
"Of course, I'll help our new friend, Billy. Who do you take me for?" Murdock voiced with mock hurt and Ashton quickly found his new table mate sitting beside him. "Here you go, Kenzie."
Ashton stared into Murdock's eyes, grasping at the emotions he saw flickering in those green orbs as he slowly parted his lips. Bland oatmeal touched his tastebuds and Kenzie immediately closed his mouth while turning his head away. He hated oatmeal and apparently his new table mate realized this if their wince was anything to go by.
"Here, try this."
The words were whispered and he felt something brush against his bottom lip. Unconsciously opening his mouth, Ashton was greeted with the taste of savory scrambled eggs. He accepted the mouthful and gave a few chews before swallowing.
"Don't see how anyone can eat something that looks like that anyway," Murdock teased quietly, glancing around the room to see if anyone noticed.
Everyone was served with a set diet plan the doctors assigned to each individual patient; some foods were manageable and often times envied, others were straight up revolting with their texture and blandness. Halfway through him being fed, a thought drifted into the forefront of Ashton's mind.
'Who the hell is Billy?'
.:oOo:.
"Be runnin' up that buildin'…say, if I only could, oh…," Ashton murmured under his breath, his eyes focused on the lines of lead he was tracing over a blank piece of paper. "You don't wanna hurt me…yeah, yeah. But see how deep…the bullet lies."
Ashton continued singing under his breath, pretending there was music playing softly in the background as he sketched. Lines, curves, shades both light and dark soon merged to form an image. His fingers tightened around the pencil until his knuckles turned white. He kept sketching, his hand never faltering and his voice never pausing.
"Unaware, I'm tearin' you asunder…yeah, yeah. Oh, there is…thun-thunder in our hearts," Ashton ignores the way his voice breaks and how his vision begins to blur from building moisture.
He swallows the growing lump, briefly biting down on his trembling bottom lip.
"Is there so much hate for the ones we lo-love," Ashton pushed forward, wanting to finish his sketch despite the words seemingly piercing his chest. "Oh, tell me, we both matter…don't we?"
Trembling lips parted as a broken sob fought free and Ashton bowed his head, tucking his chin against his chest while squeezing his eyes shut. Something snapped and he absently realized it was the pencil he had been using. Unconsciously balling up his other hand, he felt the paper he was sketching on crinkle in his grasp. Without much awareness to his room door opening and closing silently behind him, Ashton flinched at the hesitant touch against the center of his shoulder blades.
Another hand brushed his, the one clutching onto the broken pencil. Warm air fluttered along his brow, words being whispered, but going unheard as Ashton drowned under nightmares reality brought. A calloused hand, so gentle in caressing his face, carefully turned Ashton's head until he was staring into a pair of worried green eyes. A thumb smoothed the damp skin beneath one of his eyes and Ashton instinctively leaned into the touch.
"Kenzie, it's going to be alright," Murdock told him quietly, shifting his hand from Ashton's face to run his fingers through slightly tangled raven locks.
The action was soothing, bringing a sense of comfort that Ashton rarely received and did not know he was starved of. Ashton let go of his sketch and the broken pencil, ignoring the crinkling sound and the stinging of his palm. Leaning forward, Ashton grabbed hold of the rough white cotton of Murdock's patient-issued shirt.
Ashton tilted over until he was sliding off of his stool and able to bury his face against a solid chest. Ashton felt arms come around him, cradling him…shielding him. How long has it been since he has had such obvious comfort? How long has it been since someone hugged him, spoken kindly to him, thrown a simple smile his way and mean it?
"Look at you, crying like a child in the arms of a stranger. What makes you think anyone wants to deal with your incompetence? You're humiliating to watch."
Ashton pressed his face harder against Murdock's chest, trying and failing to muffle his hitching sobs as harsh words echoed around him.
"You're always such a bother. Why can you just suck it up? So fucking exhausting."
"…lights will guide you home and ignite your bones, and I will try to fix you, and high up above, or down below. When you're too in love to let it go, but if you never try, you'll never know just what you're worth…"
Ashton floated in between the harsh words being spoken to him by someone dead and the reality of Murdock singing softly against the crown of his head while rubbing circles against his back. He was so tired, so, so tired.
"…tired," Ashton breathed almost too soft to be heard.
Murdock tightened his arms around Ashton, pressing closer.
"So…tired," Ashton repeated hoarsely, the strength leaving him to rest limply against Murdock.
"Then let's get you to bed, so you can rest up," Murdock voiced calmly, but he did not move to pull away.
Ashton sighed, turning his head and tucking his face against the curve of Murdock's shoulder. The warmth of bare skin from Murdock's throat felt calming against Ashton's tear-stained face. He inhaled, smelling mint beneath the generic detergent this place used to wash everyone's clothes. He blinked, feeling the resistance of his eyelashes brushing against Murdock's neck. Ashton felt the brunette shiver, a reaction that was finally different from the calm, collected, comforting hold Murdock had on him.
"Okay," Ashton huffed his agreement, finally replying to Murdock's suggestion of going to bed.
As soon as he spoke, Murdock stood up and brought Ashton with him.
"I got you," Murdock told him when Ashton's legs threatened to bring him back down to the floor with how weak they felt.
Together, they made the short distance to Ashton's cot; one identical to everyone else's within the hospital. The cot was narrow and just long enough to fit his entire length on. Falling onto the cot, Ashton rolled onto his side to face the room while pressing his back up against the cement wall. Murdock stood at the edge of the cot, suddenly looking unsure of what he should do; leave or stay.
Ashton reached up with a shaky arm and Murdock's hand clasped his mid-way, the decision made. Sliding onto the cot beside Ashton, Murdock tittered on the edge. Watery grays stared into focused greens. Inching closer, Ashton slipped his arms around Murdock and pulled the brunette closer and away from the cot's ledge. Murdock sighed, tension slowly leaving his body as he acted in kind by wrapping his arms around Ashton.
"…bring shivers to the bone. Nothing left, it's time to leave. Can you make it on your own? Nothing left, it's time to breathe. Can you follow me back home? Nothing left to make you feel high. Nothing left to turn you on. Dwelling in your dreams every day, disturbs your nights…"
If Ashton's grip tightened on the back of Murdock's shirt and the raven's breaths go from steady to stuttered, Murdock did not mention it and only returned the hold.
"Say, Kensington, are you broken yet?"
Ashton peered over Murdock's shoulder at the question, his eyes taking on the translucent figure leaning nonchalantly against the metal desk. The handsome man cut an impressive figure in their army fatigues, thick hair curling slightly around the man's left ear. Tilting his head to the side, the figure caught Ashton's gaze. The other side of the man's figure was blackened and appeared melted. The entire right side of the man was warped…disfigured from what could have only been caused by fire. Milky eyes narrowed; crusty lips lifted on the left side in a smirk as teeth shown on the right.
"I'm sorry," Ashton whimpered, shuddering in Murdock's hold as he fought to tell himself what he was seeing was not real.
"No? You will be."
"I'm sorry," Ashton repeated, over and over again until he was being rocked back and forth.
"Hey, hey, look at me. Kenzie, look at me," Murdock coaxed, his voice steadily growing louder until Ashton's eyes snapped to his.
Murdock brought a hand up to cup Ashton's jaw, his fingertips brushing raven strands.
"Hey, you with me?" Murdock asked, waiting until Ashton nodded. "Whatever you're hearing…whatever you're seeing, isn't real. They are side-effects from the drugs these doctors have you on."
Ashton blinked, exhaling shakily as he tried to process Murdock's words.
"Zolpidem, quetiapine, clonazepam…each one of those medications have hallucinations as a side-effect. You are on all three," Murdock told him gently, brushing his thumb back and forth along Ashton's cheekbone. "Give me a week and I'll have those drugs completely out of your system."
Ashton's jaw trembled, his teeth clattering with emotion he was trying to hold back. Glancing over Murdock's shoulder, the distorted figure was gone and the haunting music could no longer be heard echoing in his ears. He focused back on Murdock.
"Why?"
Murdock absorbed the single words that could have been asked for any range of information. So, he started with the first that popped up into his mind.
"Zolpidem is for your insomnia. Quetiapine; depression. Clonazepam…anxiety. I don't like not feeling like myself and I hate seeing you unable to be yourself," Murdock said with genuine honestly, feeling the thump, thump, thumping of Ashton's heartbeat against his chest.
"Wh-why?" Ashton asked again, his voice wavering. "Why me?"
Murdock licked his bottom lip, contemplating his answer.
"You interest me in a way nothing and no one has in a long, long time," Murdock finally whispered, hesitant in being so truthful with Ashton…with himself. "I want to get to know you, the real you and not the drug-induced zombie this place is forcing you to be."
Slowly, as not the break whatever peace they currently had going for them, Murdock slid his fingers into Ashton's hair and gently pulled until the raven's face was nestled against the curve of his shoulder.
"Do you need me to fill the silence?" Murdock asked in a whisper as he slowly carded his fingers through Ashton's hair.
Ashton's fingers loosened their grip on the back of Murdock's shirt before tightening again. He nodded his head, keeping his face hidden and pressed in the warmth Murdock offered.
"Okay, okay…," Murdock said and lightly cleared his throat and began speaking from memory Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne. "The year 1866 was signalized by a remarkable incident, a mysterious and puzzling phenomenon, which doubtless no one has yet forgotten…"
.:oOo:.
"Who is Billy?" Ashton asked his unspoken question from a week ago, when Murdock had first introduced himself during breakfast.
Murdock grinned, peering up at Ashton through thick lashes while spearing a piece of fruit. They were seated in the cafeteria for supper, the noise volume in the area loud with chatter. Instead of eating his bland bowl of grainy pasta, peas, spinach, and poached egg whites, Ashton chose to push the substance as far away from him as possible.
"He's my dog," Murdock explained with a playful wink, looking pointedly down at the ground where absolutely nothing sat. "Trade yah."
Murdock switched Ashton's bowl of bland food with his bowl of roasted vegetables and baked fish. Slate orbs widened in wonder as Murdock set his fruit bowl to the side before taking a large spoonful of what would have been Ashton's lunch.
"I've never had quinoa before," Murdock voiced with a tilt of curiosity. "Not bad…needs salt. Eat up, Kenzie, story time is at seven."
Cupping his hands around the still warm bowl of fish and veggies, Ashton pressed his lips together to fight back a smile. They had finished Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seatwo nights ago and now Murdock was reading him Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton. Stabbing a piece of roasted broccoli, Ashton brought the bite to his mouth.
"You know…you don't have to trade meals every single time, right?" Ashton asked quietly, savoring the lightly seasoned fish he just finished chewing up and swallowing.
Murdock chuckled, leaning his elbow on the table and resting his cheek in his hand.
"I don't, but I will," Murdock stated without much pause. "You can't eat if the food in front of you isn't appetizing. Me on the other hand, I'll eat pretty much anything."
Ashton glanced down at the half-eaten bowl of quinoa mixture Murdock had set aside in favor of finishing his fruit salad. Picking up a piece of flakey fish with his fork, Ashton held his fork out for his friend.
"Sharing…is caring?" Ashton asked, repeating something he heard someone say to another while in the game room.
While Ashton's word stated as such, Murdock saw the amused glint in those slate pools. He grinned, translating that glint into something more along the lines of eat the damn fish before I change my mind. Of course, having to be mindful of their actions while under the watchful eyes of the staff in this fine facility, Murdock opened wide and allowed the bite of fish to enter his mouth.
"Murdock, once you finish eating, you have a session with your physician."
Murdock looked over at one of the on-call orderlies-slash-security guards that loiter around to keep eyes on everyone. His brows furrowed with confusion. Not once since he has been here, has he had to attend any type of session.
"Can Billy come? He gets lonely if I leave him for too long," Murdock asked and received an eyebrow raise in response.
"Sure," The orderly answered before walking away.
"Ah, it shouldn't take too long. Wait up for me?" Murdock asked, his voice lowered to where only Ashton could hear him.
Their story times were…against the rules. Once lights-out is called, all patients are encouraged to remain in their rooms until morning. If others were to discover the fact that Murdock sneaks out of his room and into Ashton's every night to keep the raven company, things would become more difficult; starting with more security being implemented around them. Ashton nodded, opting to finish his meal as quickly as possible.
Murdock was soon led away from the cafeteria by the same orderly who informed him of his session. Ashton bit the inside of his cheek as he listened to Murdock speaking about Billy's most recent escapade on top of the Great Wall. Heavy footsteps paused beside where he sat, causing Ashton to look up at another orderly. They motioned for him to stand up and after a second, Ashton complied.
"Let's go, Kensington, or you'll be late for your general checkup with Doctor Gideon."
Ashton swallowed, having no choice but to follow the orderly out of the cafeteria and down the hall. During their trip through the hospital, Ashton quickly became aware of their destination. Arriving outside his assigned room, Ashton waited until the orderly opened his door and stepped aside. Walking in, he immediately caught sight of one of the doctors who met him when he was first brought to this place.
"Ah, Mr. Kensington, how have you been? Well, I hope. How about you take a seat, so that we may get started," Doctor Robert Gideon voiced without giving Ashton a chance to answer what happened to be a rhetorical question. "Please lay down on your cot."
Ashton hesitated, watching as Doctor Gideon began to unzip a small leather pouch. A firm hand gripped his forearm as another pressed against his shoulder, giving Ashton no other option than to move forward unless he overbalanced. He stumbled slightly as his knee hit the edge of his cot, the firm hands on him pushing him down to sit. Ashton's eyes steadily widened as Doctor Gideon turned around with a loaded syringe containing a clear liquid.
"One of the night orderlies told me about you being unable to sleep, saying something about you talking to yourself? I'm sure we can help with that despite the zolpidem seemingly not working," Doctor Gideon explained as he closed the distance between them.
Ashton jerked up only to be pressed down.
"No, st-stop. I don't ne—."
Ashton gasped as Doctor Gideon pierced the needled straight into his neck, shooting the plunger down and releasing the liquid into his system. Almost immediately, a burning sensation flowed from the injection site and throughout his bloodstream. His hands clenched and his back arched, his breath catching in his throat as the fire coursed through him.
"Hm…seems to be some type of adverse effect to the midazolam. You should be fine in an hour or so. We'll leave you to sleep it off," Doctor Gideon stated, his words rolling over Ashton as he could focus on nothing but the pain.
Tears pricked Ashton's eyes as his jaw clenched shut, his muscles tensing throughout his entire body. Seconds, minutes, hours; Ashton lost track of time as his body struggled through the effects of whatever sedative the doctor had injected him with. A pair of hands grabbed his face, causing bloodshot gray eyes to shoot open, Ashton having no idea when he closed them.
He stared into the worried face of Murdock, the brunette saying something. Ashton closed his eyes, his head lolling to the side. Feeling a gentle brush of fingertips along his sore neck caused a whimper to escape his trembling lips.
"—give you?" Murdock demanded, patting Ashton's cheek. "Kenzie, what did they give you?"
Ashton blinked, the motion lagging as lethargy began to set in. Finally, the pain had started to wane and his muscles began to grow lax.
"Hey, look at me," Murdock ordered, giving Ashton a shake before snapping his fingers in front of dulling gray orbs. "Kenzie!"
"…torrr…eon," Ashton slurred, his thought process slowing down. "He…usss."
Murdock froze, trying to fit the pieces together with what he knew about the staff in the hospital. Apparently, he has not been as quiet as he thought he had been during story time and one of the doctors decided to do something about it, thinking it was Ashton.
"We'll get out of here, Kenzie, I promise," Murdock leaned forward, whispering against Ashton's brow. "My friends will come and when they do, we'll leave this place together."
As darkness encroached along the edges of his vision, Ashton felt his consciousness falling away. A solid weight settled down beside him and he briefly felt himself being shifted until he was facing the wall. Heat curled around him, covering his entire backside. Just as he comprehended that Murdock was holding him protectively, Ashton drifted away to a haunting melody echoing softly around them.
"Would you mind if I hurt you? Understand that I need to. Wish that I had other choices than to harm the one I love. What have you done now? I know I'd better stop trying. You know that there's no denying. I won't show mercy on you now. I know I should stop believing. I know there's no retrieving. It's over now, what have you done?"
.:oOo:.
"Go fish, Billy and no cheating," Murdock huffed exaggeratingly as he cocked his head towards the empty seat across from him and Ashton.
Murdock fought back a frown as he glanced down at Ashton's hands that were resting in the raven's lap. The hand of cards Murdock had delt out remained untouched in front of his friend and slate orbs stared unseeingly straight ahead.
"Aah, Billy, I said no cheating," Murdock spoke up, tossing down his two fours towards Billy's area. "Can you believe this, Kenzie? He is totally calling my bluff."
Murdock gently nudged Ashton's shoulder and received not a single response. He licked his dry lips. Ashton has been pretty much unresponsive since Murdock found him drugged in his room…that was three nights ago. He carefully unclenched his fingers from around his cards while casually glancing around the room.
"Got any eights?" Murdock asked, tapping Ashton's facedown cards.
A knee pressed against his thigh, catching Murdock's attention. He watched as Ashton's knee continued to press against him and Murdock looked up as a man in a white lab coat approached them with a smile.
"Good afternoon, boys. How's the game going?"
'Doctor Robert Gideon; age fifty-two. Received his medical degree at Karolinska Institute and worked at well-known psychiatric hospitals in Sweden, Finland, and Germany,' Murdock cut his thoughts off, opting to answer the doctor's inquiry with a dopey grin.
"Can you believe this, Doc? Billy is winning," Murdock voiced, a fake pout pulling at his lips.
Doctor Gideon chuckled, tucking his hands into his lab coat pockets. His assessing gaze lingered on Ashton for a moment longer than strictly necessary.
"What about you, Mr. Kensington, have you been sleeping better?" Doctor Gideon asked and Murdock inwardly seethed as he felt Ashton tremble against him.
Looping his arm through Ashton's, the motion of taking hold of the raven's hand being hidden by their table, Murdock leaned into his friend's side. This pulled Doctor Gideon's attention away from Ashton and back onto Murdock.
"Say, Doc, when can we have movie night again?" Murdock asked and other patients lingering around the game room began to chant movie, movie, movie.
Doctor Gideon chuckled, waving at one of the orderlies.
"I guess tonight is as good a night as any. Let's get the theater set up and see what's playing," Doctor Gideon stated, aiming his last statement to the orderly who immediately left to get help with the video equipment. "Nothing too long. Everyone has a schedule to stick to."
When Doctor Gideon left, Murdock secured his arm around Ashton's shoulders. Ashton was still trembling, but despite his body's unconscious response of fearing the doctor, Ashton's dull orbs remained blank along with his facial expression. Murdock hated this. He hated how withdrawn Ashton has become…how damaged and scared, because of what Doctor Gideon did to him. Pain throbbed along Murdock's jaw and he realized how hard he was gritting his teeth in anger.
.:oOo:.
Murdock lay resting along Ashton's back, his arms tucked underneath the raven as steady puffs of air left the relaxed man. He nuzzled the side of his face against tousled locks and Murdock inhaled the scent of crisp apples. Their legs were tangled, one of Murdock's slotted between Ashton's. Their positions comfortable, the weight of Murdock bringing a sense of peace to the otherwise anxious man beneath him.
"It was five o'clock on a winter's morning in Syria," Murdock whispered, beginning to quote Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express from memory. "Alongside the platform at Aleppo stood the train grandly designated in railway guides as the Taurus Express."
Fingers laced with Murdock's, his hands tucked closely to Ashton's chest and against the cot. Murdock absently pressed a closed-mouthed kiss beside Ashton's ear, his warm breath fluttering over the cool flesh.
"It consisted of a kitchen and dining-car, a sleeping-car and two local coaches," Murdock continued with the story, his voice gently lolling Ashton to sleep. "By the step leading up into the sleeping-car…"
Four months have passed since Murdock has been sentenced in Mannheim and three since knowing the man splayed out beneath him. A month and a half has gone by since this fine establishment lost one of their best doctors to a freak accident. Who knew listening to the radio while taking a shower could be dangerous?
"A whistle blew, there was a long melancholy cry from the engine. Both men stepped out into the corridor," Murdock spoke softly in Ashton's ear. "Outside a voice shouted, 'En voiture!' 'We're off,' said MacQueen. But they were not quite off. The whistle blew again."
Slow, deep breath sounds emitted from Ashton, the man finally falling into a restful slumber. Murdock kept speaking quietly under his breath, feeling the grasp of sleep nudging him from the corners of his mind. With his face nestled in the curve of Ashton's shoulder, he left himself follow the other into a state halfway between sleep and wakefulness. It was only because of his years of being a soldier, an Army Ranger, that had Murdock become aware of a muffled noise coming from outside Ashton's door. The grasp of sleep vanished, Murdock coming to full awareness within seconds.
"Don't see why this cannot wait until morning," An unfamiliar voice murmured as keys rattled against the door. "Are you sure it's this one?"
"Room 221; Kensington, Ashton. Explosives and firearms expert – covert surveillance, close quarters knife combat specialist, hostage rescue…this is him," Another voice responded, annoyance flaring in their tone.
Murdock cautiously extracted himself from Ashton, being as careful as he could to not wake him up. The two about to enter the room were clearly looking for Ashton and appeared to know more information than what was listed in his medical file.
"And this stuff they gave us, it's supposed to what, put him under?"
Murdock tensed, shifting his body near the desk and out of sight when the door was beginning to open. A heavy sigh and the sound of someone being hit was heard along with a muffled groan of pain.
"The less we know, the better. Now, hurry up. It's late and I want to get some shut eye."
"Yeah, yeah, I'm hurrying."
Murdock waited as one of the men, ones wearing matching scrubs as the rest of the orderlies, stepped inside Ashton's room and let the door shut behind them.
"Hm, he's already asleep. Hey, man, are you sure—." The orderly in the room froze as they turned around to see Murdock standing in one of the corners by the desk.
It was mostly dark, the only light source coming from the thin florescent tubing outlining the floor and casting an earie glow around the room.
"Yes, and I ask that you please don't wake him up," Murdock murmured loud enough for the orderly to hear him, his narrowed green eyes glinting dangerously.
Whether it was from Murdock no longer being on top of him, the strange voice speaking in the same room, or the feeling of an unknown presence standing over him, Ashton rolled onto his side and opened his eyes. Becoming distracted by the sound of Ashton moving, the orderly made the mistake of taking his eyes off of Murdock. One second, Ashton was looking at the tip of a needle and the next…the next second showed Murdock with one arm wrapped tightly around the orderly's throat while his other hand forced the orderly to stick themselves with whatever was in the syringe.
The orderly opened their mouth, but not a sound escaped as their eyes rolled into the back of their head and they began to topple over. Ashton scrambled out of the way, avoiding the prone form now collapsed on the cot. Meeting Murdock's gaze, Ashton nodded as Murdock raised a finger to his lips in a silent motion to stay quiet.
"What is taking you so long?" The second orderly demanded under their breath, stepping halfway into the room.
Realization flashed through surprised eyes, but Murdock was already moving. A chop to the larynx was quickly followed by a palm strike to the man's nose, instantly dropping the man to the floor in a heap. Grabbing hold of the man's arms, Murdock went to drag the unconscious, possibly dead man into the room. He glanced up, meeting slate orbs as Ashton took hold of the man's arms and help him pull.
Shutting the door, Murdock bit his bottom lip as his thoughts raced. The next guard rotation will not be until one o'clock in the morning. It was barely past midnight, which gives him and Ashton a little under an hour window to move. Turning to Ashton, Murdock stepped into his space and reached up to cup the raven's neck.
"I need to ask, because we may not get another chance like this again. Will you leave with me?" Murdock asked and Ashton nodded without hesitation, the action and trust in slate orbs causing Murdock to grin. "Okay, lets switch clothes and hightail it out of here."
They changed into the orderly scrubs, Murdock popping out the lenses of a pair of reading glasses before slipping the golden frames onto his face with a cheeky grin. Ashton unclipped a ring of keys and passed them to Murdock before accepting a pair of hospital issued rubber shoes and sliding them on. Taking Ashton's hand, Murdock led the way out of the room and down the hall. It would not be until they made it to the parking garage where the employees parked and inside the vehicle belonging to one of the orderlies before everything caught up to them.
"Did we just break out of a psychiatric hospital?" Ashton asked in bewilderment, his eyes large and smile mirroring Murdock's.
"Why yes we did," Murdock answered, starting the vehicle's engine and calmly driving out of the parking garage towards the security stand.
Whistling a catching tune, Murdock lowered the window and swiped the ID badge he grabbed off of one of the orderlies. There was a beep before the security bar lifted, allowing them to leave. Meeting each other's gaze, Ashton reached over and took hold of Murdock's hand.
"Where to now?" Ashton asked, almost breathlessly as the psychiatric hospital kept getting further and further away the longer they drove.
"Anywhere you want," Murdock answered, bringing their lanced hands to his lips where he pressed a kiss to Ashton's knuckles before securing them against his chest.
.:oOo:.
They followed the Rhine River south through Germany, slowly making their way into Switzerland. It was only when they managed to pass through Basel did the tension completely leave their bodies. The usual two-and-a-half-hour drive took them almost twice that. Murdock wanted to gather supplies and Ashton suggested warmer clothes. Ashton speaking German to an older couple did not surprise Murdock.
What did catch the brunette off guard was Ashton's handsome smile and adorable dimples aimed at the older couple while gaining them entry for a warm meal with the early risers. It was the couple, both well into their eighties, who provided a small amount of supplies and each a change of winter clothes that belonged to a grandson before seeing them off into the early morning light.
"We could stay in one of the vacant cabins along the valley. The heavy snowfall will prevent travel for at least a few days…maybe even a week or two," Ashton stated, his voice filling the car with the softly playing music.
"You a secret weatherman, Kenzie?" Murdock teased, noting that there was no snow currently falling despite the thick clouds covering what would be a blue, blue sky.
Ashton scoffed, amusement in the sound and he nudged Murdock's side.
"Alright, smartass, the voice on the radio mentioned an early blizzard tonight," Ashton said without any heat to his tone, his eyes roaming over a worn map found in the glovebox.
Laughter erupted from Murdock, caught off guard by Ashton's playfulness. He had glimpsed a brief moment back when they were in the psychiatric hospital, back before Doctor Gideon began dosing Ashton at night. Slowly, but surely, Ashton was expressing more and more of himself. It helped immensely that the drugs were no longer circulating throughout the raven's body. Murdock turned his head and looked at Ashton, seeing the man's lips curled upwards in a serene smile while scanning the map. Reaching over, Murdock brushed his knuckles down the side of Ashton's jaw. Slate orbs flickered over to Murdock, Ashton's smile softening.
"Eyes on the road, Hamish."
Murdock could not contain the pleased hum that left his throat, ever so grateful for telling Ashton his first name…he could possibly be the only person alive to currently know it and use it with such affection. Running the tip of his tongue over the front of his teeth, Murdock put his attention back on the road ahead of them. It would be an hour later when they would discover a tiny cabin just outside of Balsthal.
Snow was already dusting the ground and surrounding vegetation, growing thicker with every passing moment. The narrow trail, too overgrown to be called a road, was already coated with the white powder and making the slow trek slippery. Ashton absently noted the rate in which the snow was falling, their tire marks already hidden as though they were never there. For such a small cabin in seemingly the middle of nowhere, it looked intact and well maintained. It was quite possible the cabin was used on a regular basis, a fact the two made sure not to forget in the coming days.
Inside, the cabin appeared to be one large room with a wood-burning stove and icebox in one corner, a bed in another, and a claw-foot tub across. A large bookcase seemed to separate the bed from the 'kitchen' area, the same with a makeshift drape around the tub. This gave the lodgers a sense of privacy, even if it appeared that the cabin was occasionally occupied by just one individual.
Murdock let out an impressed whistle as he closed the door behind them, setting aside the small bag containing the remaining food items the older couple had given them. The sound of rushing water had Murdock turning and he watched as Ashton began filling the tub with hot water. How there was working plumbing with hot water went over Murdock's head as Ashton's borrowed jacket landed on the floor. Ashton's shirt and jeans quickly followed. Just as he tucked his thumbs into the waistband of his boxer briefs did Ashton pause and glance over his shoulder at Murdock.
"Water's hot," Ashton muttered, suddenly looking unsure and adverting his gaze.
"Do you…should I—."
"There's enough room for the both of us," Ashton spoke quickly, finally removing his remaining clothes and stepping into the water. "Saves water."
It was said with a shrug, the man trying to be nonchalant about being naked in front of Murdock. Himself…Murdock could feel a flush running up his chest to the tips of his ears. Spending night after night pressed against Ashton's obviously toned form never prepared Murdock for actually seeing just how toned the other male was.
He swallowed, trying to push the thought of no tan lines out of his mind as he worked on removing his own clothes. Sliding into the water facing Ashton, Murdock was privy to the rosy hue dusting Ashton's face. Murdock would place blame on the water's hot temperature, but the subtle glances Ashton was giving him begged to differ.
"Hamish?" Ashton called out to him gently, slate orbs reflecting nothing but tenderness.
Murdock hummed, urging Ashton to continue. Ashton bit the corner of his lip, before speaking.
"We never finished Agatha Christie."
Murdock smiled, circling his fingers around Ashton's ankles and slowly drawing the raven's knees down into the water. Murdock began where he left off, his thumbs rubbing soothing motions against the inside of Ashton's calves.
"Poirot noticed the apology in his tone with some amusement. Doubtless the man had been promised a good tip if he could keep the compartment for the sole use of the other traveler…"
.:oOo:.
John 'Hannibal' Smith sat staring at Lynch, the CIA operative having just informed Hannibal of the status of his team. Sure, his Second-in-Command Templeton 'Face' Peck was being held in Pensacola, Florida and Bosco 'B.A.' Baracus was currently incarcerated in Lake Tahoe, California…but it was H.M. 'Howling Mad' Murdock's current location that was throwing Hannibal for a loop.
"What do you mean Murdock is missing?" Hannibal asked calmly, his tone the complete opposite of the chaos fighting within him.
Lynch shrugged, as if unbothered by Hannibal's question. Of course, it was no skin off Lynch's bones what went on with other people.
"Four months into his stay at Mannheim's psychiatric hospital, Murdock vanished. The thing is, he wasn't the only one and it's suspected the two are travelling together," Lynch stated, almost bored-like as he handed Hannibal another file.
Hannibal flipped the file open, blinking down at the image staring back at him along with a mostly redacted file. The former SAS soldier had an impressive resumé, but there was one thing missing from the information provided.
"Why was this man in a psychiatric hospital?" Hannibal asked only for Lynch to sigh heavily.
"Look, man, I don't know. I only obtained the information there, because it was suspected that he was or currently is involved with one of yours. They vanished on the same night with two dead orderlies in Kensington's room," Lynch stated, now sounding exhausted with the conversation. "Either Kensington killed them and escaped, and your man went after him, or they are working together."
Hannibal frowned, the lack of information frustrating him. He knew Murdock and Murdock would not needlessly kill anyone, especially not in a hospital of sorts. Something else was going on, but he could not figure out what without more information. He needs his pilot and it seemed as though he would only be able to find Murdock by finding Kensington.
"Alright, but I want full reinstatements and clean records for my entire team in return for the plates," Hannibal finally agreed to Lynch's offer.
Lynch's brow rose and he stood up to stretch.
"I'm assuming this will include Kensington if he is with Murdock?" Lynch asked, not that he cared about the addition to Hannibal's team.
Not if it got him what he wanted. Hannibal nodded and they shook on it.
.:oOo:.
"I could really go for a cheeseburger right now," Murdock said out of nowhere, the two walking through the sparse streets of Balsthal hand-in-hand.
Ashton chuckled; the lower part of his face covered by a thick scarf Murdock insisted he wear along with a matching ski hat. The soles of their snow boots crunched on the snow-covered ground, the textured bottoms easily preventing slips. They have managed to remain hidden for an entire month, using the isolated cabin to their full advantage. It brought a sense of safety to both of them, the naturally developed rock formations, thick vegetation, and overall location made the cabin perfect for hiding from those searching for them.
"I could always make you one," Ashton suggested with a coy glance.
"Oh, sweetheart, I've seen you try making toast. I think it's best if we left the cooking to me," Murdock voiced with a grin, dancing out of the way from Ashton's elbow jab with a laugh.
Murdock could not go far, not without breaking their hands apart. He tugged Ashton close, pressing his still-grinning mouth to the visible portion of Ashton's face; right below his eye.
"You're lucky I like you…you and your teasing," Ashton murmured, but he was smiling.
Murdock's soft laugh echoed against Ashton's ear, his other arm looping around the raven's waist as they got lost in one another. A brush of lips, a shaky inhale…Ashton leaned the rest of the way and sealed their lips. The kiss remained slow, unhurried as they tasted one another. They took their time, enjoying a rare moment in their lives where they could. A giggle from nearby pulled the two apart, both looking in the direction of the sound. Lina and Emilie, twins and well into their late fifties stood outside their bread shop watching them.
"You two lovebirds should hurry inside. We will fix you something nice to eat for lunch," Lina, the elder twin called out to them once they realized they were no longer kissing.
Her sister, Emilie, giggled some more while fanning her face.
"Such love, oh to be young again. Come, come you two," Emilie joined in coaxing Murdock and Ashton inside to where it was warm and smelled of freshly baked bread. "I made fondu that we can all share."
Ashton gave Murdock's had a quick squeeze, the two sharing amused looks. Lina and Emilie were one of the first residents in town to introduce themselves, even going as far as to offer them work when it was learned that they needed funds for the heavy winter storm. Nevermind the fact that a majority of their backstory and names were made up. To Lina, Emilie and everyone in town, they were Mark and Alan Kelley; a newly married couple honeymooning through Europe, both of whom fell in love with the quaint little town of Balsthal.
"This weather is just wonderful for a short stroll and what better to have than warm food to eat when taking a break," Lina stated, setting a tray of hot teas, bread slices, meats, and vegetables in the center of the table while Emilie dished out two pots of simmering fondu.
"Thank you, Ms. Lina, Ms. Emilie, for inviting us for lunch. Mark was just teasing me about my lack of cooking skills," Ashton told them, smirking at a gapping Murdock when Emilie swatted his arm.
"No teasing your husband. No matter how inedible his food may be, he makes it for you with love," Emilie chastised Murdock, her unintended slight to Ashton's cooking causing the raven to sweat-drop while Murdock chuckled.
"I guess congratulations are in order," A voice spoke up as a group of three stepped into the main area from the back of the shop. "Sorry we missed the wedding."
Ashton tensed up at the new and unexpected arrivals, eyeing the three men with suspicion until Murdock leaped to his feet.
"Sir!"
'Sir? Who the hell is he?' Ashton pondered briefly to himself, before a thought drifted forwards. 'Could this be the friends Hamish mentioned? What are they doing here? How…how did they find us? Are there others out there watching?'
Ashton licked his dry lips, remaining in his seat even as Lina and Emilie were introducing themselves to Murdock's friends-slash-teammates. He did not realize the tight grip he had on the front of his sweater until Murdock was there in front of him, taking his white-knuckled grip gently in his own calloused hands.
"Hey," Murdock murmured softly, reaching up and caressing the side of Ashton's pale face.
Ashton's gaze flickered from the three men Murdock had just introduced as Hannibal, Face, and B.A., locking onto green eyes swirling with happiness, love, and a little caution.
"Maybe we should take this conversation back to your current place," Hannibal suggested, remaining where he was so as not to spook the suddenly wary man that has been with Murdock since their escape from the hospital.
"Never thought I'd see the day," Face breathed quietly, eyeing his leader and father-figure with uncertainty. "Hey, man, we really should get going."
This was aimed at Murdock who kept his attention solely on Ashton.
"Oh, nonsense, you all sit, sit. Join us for this meal," Lina insisted, taking Face by the arm and leading the handsome man to a nearby seat.
B.A. clapped his hands, rubbing them together as he eyed the wonderful smelling food. He sat down without hesitation beside Face. Hannibal eyed Murdock who was still knelt down in front of Kensington, whispering words in a soothing tone that was so far from Murdock's exuberant way of speaking. For a moment, Hannibal was sure they would be able to get through a shared meal, but seconds later Murdock was helping Kensington to his feet.
"Sorry, Lina…Emilie, but I think it's best for us to take a raincheck on this meal. Alan isn't feeling too well all of a sudden, so we should head back home," Murdock explained, as he grabbed Ashton's jacket and helped him in it.
Emilie patted Murdock's shoulder in understanding while Lina frowned, eyeing the obvious leader of the group. Narrowing her eyes on Hannibal, she marched up to the man with her fists on her hips.
"You three best not be trouble for my boys. If I find out, you will regret it," Lina snapped, her delicately aged face reflecting her overprotectiveness that she felt towards the couple.
Ever since she and her sister met Mark and Alan, she could immediately see a weight of tension the two carried around with them. Getting to know the two, Lina and Emilie had silently agreed to take the two under their wings and make sure no one bothered the two obviously hurting men…taking care of them without hesitation.
"Lina…," Ashton murmured, finally speaking up since Murdock's friends arrived. "It's okay."
Taking a deep breath, Lina nodded and shuffled out of the way for the group of five to leave. Murdock and Ashton were the first to head out with B.A. and Face close behind. Hannibal paused at the exit, glancing back at the two worried women. He gave a slight nod of his head, expressing his honest intentions of not harming either of the two men, before quickly following after his team.
The group remained quiet as they made their way to the small cabin Murdock and Ashton had been staying for the last month. Once everyone was inside and somewhat comfortable, Murdock put the kettle on the stove to heat up some water for coffee. While the rest gathered around the small table near the wood-burning stove, Ashton removed his boots, scarf, hat, and jacket before going to the bed at the other side of the cabin. Hannibal caught Murdock's concerned gaze and the way he worried his bottom lip.
"Murdock," Hannibal stated, getting his pilot's attention.
"Kenzie's a good man," Murdock answered before anyone else could speak, his tone daring someone to contradict him in any way.
Hannibal nodded, lacing his fingers together and resting his arms on the table.
"I'm sure he is," Hannibal agreed, but his unspoken question could be heard loud and clear.
"What do you know about him?"
"Let's be real here, man, you've known this guy for what? However long you were stuck in that place?" Face stated questioningly, being sure to keep his voice down. "What in the world caused you to risk escaping? Why not come find us?"
Something flashed in Murdock's eyes as he faced one of the men he considered an older brother. His jaw clenched and he had to force himself to relax.
"Escape in general or escape with Kenzie?" Murdock inquired, his tone hard. "What? Did you expect the place we were being held in to be all fun and games, relaxation and vacation?"
Face flinched back, taken off guard by Murdock's harsh tone. B.A. opened his mouth to speak, possibly to placate them and prevent a potential argument. Murdock continued speaking instead, not giving anyone else the opportunity.
"There is nothing fun, relaxing, or even remotely considered a vacation when it is spent being drugged and tested on for the sole purpose of doctors wanting to see how someone's reactions were to certain stimuli," Murdock hissed, his anger building at the thought of what Ashton went through with Doctor Gideon.
"I wasn't—I didn't mean—," Face started, but Murdock was not finished.
"He's been through so much; fear, pain…," Murdock trailed off, his energy seemingly leaving him to collapsed on the remaining empty chair at the table. "You didn't see how everything affected him. The pieces that I worked so hard putting back together."
"You love him," Hannibal said with conviction, setting a hand on Murdock's forearm in support.
"So much," Murdock whispered so quietly, the others had to strain their ears to hear him.
Murdock ran a hand down his face, sighing heavily.
"That's why it's hard for me to ask this of you, Murdock," Hannibal started before filling him in on the team's plan to prove their innocents, get reinstated, and retrieve the plates from those who really murdered General Morrison. "Will you help us?"
"Of course, I'll help. You guys are my family," Murdock breathed, sharing a smile with his team. "But...I can't ask that of Kenzie, Sir. I won't."
Hannibal nodded in understanding and Face reached across the table to bump knuckles together with Murdock's.
"If it all goes to plan, we might be able to get everything done in a week or two. Then…then you can come back," Face murmured gently.
B.A. exhaled, getting everyone's attention. They noticed him staring at where Ashton lay on the bed with his back facing everyone.
"Will he be alright until then?" B.A. questioned and Murdock bit the inside of his cheek. "He doesn't seem to be in a good place. If you know what I mean."
Murdock stood up then.
"How long before we have to leave?" Murdock asked, directing his questions to Hannibal.
Hannibal pursed his lips, wanting to leave right that minute, but understanding more than anything the need Murdock felt to console the other man.
"As soon as possible, but we should be alright spending the night here to recharge," Hannibal answered thoughtfully, tilting his head in Ashton's direction. "Go on."
Murdock left them at the table in an instant, making his way over to where Ashton lay and climbing on the bed to lay behind him. Slipping his arm underneath Ashton's head and his other around the raven's waist, Murdock nuzzled the side of Ashton's neck. Ashton leaned into Murdock's hold, tangling their legs together and lacing their fingers.
"You're leaving," Ashton whispered so quietly, Murdock almost did not hear him.
Murdock nodded, pressing his face against the curve of Ashton's shoulder and neck.
"You can't stay, not when your family needs you," Ashton voiced somberly, resigned in the fact that he would be alone soon. "I can only hope that you stay safe and come back to me when it is all over."
Murdock tightened his arms around Ashton, pressing one hand flat up against his chest in order to feel his heartbeat.
"You're my family too," Murdock said softly in Ashton's ear, pressing a chaste kiss to the skin just behind it. "I need you to know that."
A shudder racked through Ashton, his breath hitching. Murdock moved them until he was hovering over Ashton, bringing his hand up to wipe the damp trails off of Ashton's cheeks.
"I hate feeling like this," Ashton admitted, his voice cracking at the end. "Everything in me is telling me to go with you and make sure you come out of this alive, but there is something inside me that is preventing me from being able to."
Murdock frowned, taking in the glassy look of Ashton's slate orbs.
"My team and I…it was such an easy mission. In and out, target was at location. Such a simple thing," Ashton began mumbling, his eyes moving as if seeing the past. "Grant and Chavez would clear out the civilians within the complex. Becket and Owens would handle the target. I would set up the incendiaries."
"Kenzie, you don't—," Murdock tried to interrupt, tensing up at what was being revealed to him.
"Explosives were my thing; my passion…such a stupid mistake. So stupid," Ashton sobbed quietly, his fingers tightening on the front of Murdock's shirt. "I don't know how I missed it. Everyone…my team, the civilians…everyone died."
Murdock leaned into Ashton, pulling him into his hold as tightly as he dared. The pressure around Ashton seemed to bring him back into the present. He cried out, the sound muffled against Murdock's shoulder as he returned the grip.
"You can't die, Hamish. Yo-you can't."
"Oh, Sweetheart," Murdock murmured, burying his face in raven locks. "I won't die, because I have you to come back to."
The opening and closing of the cabin door was vaguely heard, the two being left alone in a moment of privacy. With this knowledge, Murdock slanted his lips over Ashton's. He put everything in the kiss, every ounce of love and affection, hope and assurance that he would be coming back to Ashton. The kiss was returned with just as much fever, fingers tangling in Murdock's brunette stands to the point of almost causing pain. It only caused him to deepen their kiss, only breaking away when the need to breath affected them both.
"I promise," Murdock voiced against Ashton's trembling lips. "I promise to come back."
.:oOo:.
Pain exploded along Murdock's head as the bullet from Lynch's gun made contact with the bullet-proof helmet covering his entire head. For a moment, he was floating and then his back was slamming down against the cold metal of the storage container. His chest pinched as he struggled to suck in the breath that was violently knocked out of him. Murdock was expecting the bullet, was even prepared for it…but damn if it did not hurt like a son-of-a-bitch.
Murdock laid there unmoving, his vision swimming in the darkness of the protective helmet. His head throbbed and for once he questioned his sanity on such an idea. He could barely hear Hannibal and Lynch fighting past the ringing in his ears. God, he hopes his ears are not bleeding. A cringe-worthy groan sounded around him as the surrounding walls of the storage container were moved to reveal dozens of armed men. Taking a moment to collect himself, Murdock pushed himself up into a sitting position.
Someone's knees knocked into his and a pair of hands grabbed hold of the helmet protecting him. There was a small amount of resistance before blindingly bright lights flashed into Murdock's misty gaze. He groaned, pressing his hands against his face to effortlessly combat a pounding headache. A steady hand gripped his shoulder, pulling Murdock's attention back to the one in front of him.
"Are you okay?" Hannibal asked, concern swimming in his proud gaze.
"What? No, I think I'm sane," Murdock grunted, wincing at the loud noises around them.
Hannibal grinned, patting his shoulder before helping Murdock to his feet.
"Come on, let's meet up with the others," Hannibal suggested and led Murdock to where Face and B.A. were.
The sun was beginning to rise, chasing away the darkness of the night. After that, everything seemed to move way too fast. Murdock and his team were being handcuff and all Murdock could think about was Ashton. Anger and frustration ran through him, causing him to snap at those trying to manhandle him into the back of an armed truck.
"Don't touch me," Murdock growled, jerking his arms without success of getting free. "This is wrong!"
The others were quick to be pushed inside with him, the doors slamming shut and locking securely seconds later.
"Nice plan, Face," Hannibal huffed with a small bit of amusement, his lips twitched upwards in a smile.
"Yeah, we just traded Lynches and we're going back to prison," Murdock sneered under his breath, yanking at his cuffed wrists behind him.
"We returned the plates and now we can hold our heads high," Hannibal stated, trying to soothe frayed nerves. "We did the right thing."
B.A. shook his head, leaning over his knees.
"Yeah, but look what they did to us," B.A. grumbled, shaking his head in disbelief. "This is bullshit."
Murdock pressed his back against the truck walls, glaring up at the ceiling.
"They burned us again, Hannibal," Murdock said, pain filling is tone as he thought about what he could possibly do to get out of this situation. "We trusted the system and it turned on us."
Hannibal bumped his shoulder against Murdock's, catching the man's eyes before speaking.
"Remember, boys, no matter how random things might appear, there's still a plan," Hannibal told them, grinning at Face. "Kid?"
Murdock and B.A. looked at Face, brows furrowed as they waited for whatever secret plan there was to be revealed.
"Well, I don't mean to steal your line, Boss, but uh," Face paused, moving his tongue around before slipping a key between his lips with a large grin. "I love it when a plan comes together."
Murdock choked on a laugh, the heavy tension filling him suddenly leaving. He was not going back to prison…to that place. He would be able to keep his promise to Ashton and he had his team to thank for it. As soon as his cuffs were off, Murdock rubbed his sore wrists.
"Let's go home."
.:oOo:.
Two weeks, four days, thirteen hours, forty-six minutes and eleven seconds. That is how long Murdock has been gone…how long Ashton has been alone in the cabin, stuck inside with his thoughts as snow storm after snow storm barreled the landscape. Music played on an old vinyl player, the noise level just loud enough to be comfortable, but it kept Ashton's thoughts busy. He pretended that it was Murdock that was singing, just like he would whenever Ashton was having a bad day.
The sweater curled tightly around his shoulders smelled of mint and something entirely of Murdock. Ashton lay on the bed, propped up by pillows as he read one of the books he had grabbed off of the shelf. He absently wondered if Murdock knew The Man-eaters of Tsavo by John Henry Patterson and he was struck by the urge of wanting to hear Murdock reading to him.
"I'm not a man who acts this way, but lately I can't concentrate. And I don't sleep, just dreaming about you. I try to reach you on the phone, but voices there say you're not home and my heart aches, thinking I've lost you."
Styx's Love at First Sight continued playing on the vinyl, the lyrics pulling Ashton's attention away from the book he was attempting to read.
"One more time, seeing your face in the moonlight. One more chance to be caught unaware of this passion inside us."
Ashton bit the corner of his lip, pulling his knees closer against his chest.
"Love at first sight, I know that this can't be happening. No, not to someone like me. Love at first sight, it's hard to keep your balance moving past the point of no return."
Ashton flinched, his head turning to look towards the cabin door to where a voice was singing along to the song. At the sight of a disheveled and exhausted looking Murdock, Ashton leaped off of the bed and hurried towards the man. Murdock met Ashton halfway, wrapping the raven up in a tight embrace while burying his cold face against Ashton's warmth.
"You're here. You're here. You're really here," Ashton chanted, pressing as close against Murdock as he could without actually merging the two together.
Murdock chuckled, the sound vibrating against Ashton.
"I promised, didn't I?" Murdock asked, but did not expect an answer.
Instead, they leaned away at the same time only to bring their lips together. Murdock grasped Ashton's hips, holding him close as Ashton's fingers tangled in Murdock's hair.
"Are you okay?" Ashton asked only after they parted, sucking in a much-needed breath that was more Murdock than the air around them.
Murdock nodded, caressing the side of Ashton's face.
"Yes, even more so now," Murdock whispered, before covering his mouth over Ashton's one more time.
This, this is what he craved after so long. Something he did not realized until he could no longer have it. Holding someone dear to him…someone he loves so much and then loving him in return…Murdock hates how he came to meet Ashton, but he was ever so grateful.
.:END:.