Horatio's brows went up now and stood there. Calleigh eyes went wide. Yelina looked down then back at him.
"I did it Horatio; it was me, not the feds!"
He nodded. "Yelina, you didn't shoot Raymond. I know you didn't shoot Raymond, Yelina."
She yelled now upset. "Dam it, I just admitted to it… arrest me!"
His eyes narrowed on her but his tone stood low and caring. "Yelina… Yelina… why are you changing your story now?"
She yelled again now and Calleigh put her hand up. "Ray Jr. is sleeping, lets hold down our voices, ok?" She spoke calmly. She looked at Horatio and nodded. "I'll go and check out the back of the house." She walked away quietly giving them space.
"Are you going to arrest me or do I have to tell Calleigh she should?"
He shook his head at her and swallowed. "Please... sit down a moment."
She glared at him and nodded no.
He spoke softly and tried again. "Yelina, please, just for a moment."
She sat down on the couch and he sat across from her. He let out a heavy breath trying to figure this all out. His body and mind were exhausted and things were not adding up for him. "Please talk to me, let me help you… I'm trying but—"
"Horatio, arrest me! I'm not going to say another word to you." She held her ground.
He pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes as his head began to pound. He nodded, "Why are you changing your story now? Did they contact you?" His eyes narrowed on her and he got a reaction.
She yelled now and got up. "Calleigh!" She called out angrily.
Calleigh's eyes went wide and she quickly made her way back to the living room. "You two are going to wake Ray Jr." She said getting annoyed with them. "What's wrong?"
Yelina turned to Calleigh now. "I want you to arrest me. I did it, I shot Raymond."
Calleigh stared at her and then she looked to Horatio. "Yelina are you sure this is what you want to do? The feds will be here with Raymond at 9 to pick you up, it's all set up."
She nodded to Calleigh. "You have to arrest me now, I just admitted to it!"
Horatio gave her a look and his eyes narrowed. "Yelina, they threatened you, didn't they?"
"Arrest me dam it, I did it!" She yelled again.
Calleigh nodded to her. "Alright just calm down, you don't want to wake Ray right?"
Yelina nodded and turned. "I'm going to get dressed." She walked away from them and into the guest room closing the door.
Calleigh looked at Horatio now not knowing what to say.
Horatio nodded to her. "Did she contact anyone when you were with her?"
"She said she was calling Raymond at the hospital, that's it."
Horatio's eyes narrowed in thought. "They're threatening her Calleigh, they got to her and I don't know how. Did she use my phone to make the calls?"
Calleigh nodded yes. "We took her cell at MDPD, so yes she used your home phone."
Horatio nodded and Yelina walked back out dressed now and ready to go.
Horatio just looked at her and away. She walked back up to Calleigh standing next to him. "I'm ready."
Calleigh looked at her in disbelief. Then Horatio nodded. "Alright, ok... I'll drive you down t—"
Yelina nodded and spoke in a harsh tone cutting him right off. "No, you're not driving me anywhere!" She looked at Calleigh now. "She'll drive me there… Calleigh can take me, or call a car, I don't care which."
Horatio gave her a look of disbelief and he looked down shaking his head. Calleigh couldn't believe her ear and eyes. He was trying to help her and she was treating him like dirt now. Calleigh was having a hard enough time just keeping her mouth shut, she wanted to give Yelina a piece of her mind.
Horatio nodded and spoke very low now, "Calleigh, would you… drive her down to MDPD and let her give her statement?"
Calleigh spoke very softly to him. "Of course I will Horatio; I'll call you when I get there, ok?" She wanted to reach out and give him a hug.
He nodded still looking down. "Ok and… thank you."
He looked up and back at Yelina and down as they walked out. He walked behind them and went out watching them get into the hummer. He closed the door as they pulled away and went back inside. He headed right for the den and turned on his PC. He signed in and was able to see all the incoming and outgoing calls that were received and made. He printed them up and looked over the numbers. One was Ray's at the hospital and the others he didn't know.
He turned the computer off and decided to head back to the lab. He stopped, remembering Ray Jr. now and exhaled. He looked down at his watch and sighed. It was almost 6 am and no one was at the lab yet. He decided to take a shower and change; he could call into the lab after that.
He came out of the shower feeling some what refreshed and got dressed. He went back into the bathroom and combed his hair back, looking in the mirror. He not only looked exhausted but he felt it too.
"Uncle Horatio?" A sleepy voice called.
He walked out to find Ray Jr. staring up at him. "Raymond, you ok son?"
"Where's mom and Calleigh?"
"Umm, well Ray your mom had to go and give a statement to the police again."
"Will she be back soon?"
"Um, I'm not sure Ray, but your dad will be here at about 9 am, ok?"
"Dad?"
"Yep, so you'll get to spend some time with him too, ok?"
"Ok uncle Horatio." He looked down for a moment and sad, Horatio noticed.
"Ray, you ok?"
"This is because mom spoke to that man last night, right?"
Horatio's brow went up. "What man, Ray?"
"She was on the phone with some man who got her really upset." Horatio tilted his head to him and Ray's eyes went wide. "Don't tell her I told you uncle Horatio, she'll be mad at me."
"I won't Raymond, you have my word. Can you tell me what you heard her say?"
Ray looked at him and made a guilty face. He nodded yes. "Mm-hmm"
"It's ok Ray. What you know could help your mom."
"Well she said she couldn't because she did already. I don't know what that means, but after that she was upset. Then she called grandmas and got really upset after that, but uncle Horatio I didn't hear her talk to grandma. Anyway she was really upset and knew I saw her. She told me to go see where Calleigh was, and I knew she was trying to get rid of me. I think she didn't want Calleigh to see her so upset too, you know?"
"I do, Raymond, I know. Ok, you're doing great, anything else?"
Ray looked down and nodded without looking up. He looked sad and Horatio could see he was holding back.
"Ray, it's ok, you can talk to me Ray. I'm not going to tell her or anyone, ok? C'mon Ray this is important. What did you hear?"
"Well when I came back I heard her say please don't hurt them. The man was yelling, I could hear his voice. She said she would first thing in the morning. I wish I knew what she was talking about uncle Horatio."
He nodded and gave Ray a small grin. "You know, I think I do and you did great son, you helped your mom more than you know. Ok, listen you go get yourself dressed and ready and I'll make you something to eat. What do you feel like?"
Ray smiled up at him. "You don't have to uncle Horatio; I usually just have cereal for breakfast." He smiled widely then. "But I'll take your special pancakes if you have time to make them?"
Horatio laughed and tousled his hair. "Pancakes it is Ray, coming right up."
"Ok, I'll go get dressed... I love your pancakes!" He went back into the bedroom to get dressed.
Horatio looked down at his watch, 6:30 only. He nodded and opened his cell and pressed a button.
"Delko"
"Eric, any chance you're in the lab yet?"
"On my way now H, I should be there in 15 Min's, if the causeway is clear."
"Ok, listen give me a call the moment you get in. I need you to check some numbers for me, ok?"
"Will do H. Talk to you then." Eric hung up
Horatio closed his phone and walked out into the kitchen. It rang and he looked down at it opening it now, it was Calleigh.
"Hey, how is everything?"
"The best that can be expected, I guess. They put her in interrogation room two, it's more comfortable than the holding cell and maybe she can rest a while in there."
"Did she say anything to you?"
"No, not a word the whole ride."
"I think we may have a lead to go on." Horatio stirred the batter for the pancakes.
Ray called out now walking into the kitchen and sitting at the table. "Put extra butter uncle Horatio, like you always do, it makes them taste even better."
Horatio chuckled into the phone and nodded to Ray, still talking to Calleigh. "So um, you done there?"
She smiled hearing Ray. "Um-hmm, I thought I'd head over to the house and get a jump start on it."
"Um, it's early still and… I'm sure you haven't eaten yet. I already started breakfast, and Ray already put an extra plate out, so... how do pancakes sound to you? We'll head over to the house together after agent Cole gets here, ok?" He looked at Ray and wiggled his brows.
She smiled. "Sounds great handsome, I'll see you in ten."
"Ok, and thank you again Calleigh."
"Ok." She closed her phone.
Horatio looked over at Ray. "I'm glad she's coming back, I really like Calleigh uncle Horatio." He smiled.
Horatio smiled back and answered. "Me too Ray, me too... I hope she likes my pancakes?" He chuckled and Ray laughed.
"Who wouldn't, you make slamming good pancakes uncle Horatio." Ray got up and went over to him; he wiggled his eyebrows back up at him. "How about I help set the table now uncle Horatio?" Ray grinned at him knowing he already told Calleigh it was set for three.
Horatio nodded and smiled. "Thank you Ray." He handed him three dishes and some utensils. "What would you like to drink Ray?"
"Oh... Calleigh bought chocolate milk last night for me. Can I have some of that?"
"Sure, you grab the container and I'll get you a glass."
"Deal." Ray sat down and Horatio poured him a glass. His phone rang and he opened it going back to the stove.
"Eric."
"Yeah H, I just got in and I'm ready when ever you are."
Horatio reached into his pocket and took out the folded paper. He read the numbers to him one at a time.
"Ok H, the first one is Mrs. Salas, the next is the hospital and the third is showing government the last is the hospital again."
"Can you get a name on that government number?"
"Yeah, it's coming up now…Um... GS-18 Someone we know…David Park, H."
"Ok, Eric, good work, I'll be in touch." He closed his phone and put it back in his pocket."
He turned a bit to see Ray pouring more chocolate milk in his glass; he smiled and flipped the pancakes. The bell rang and he knew it was Calleigh. Ray immediately ran to the door and Horatio suddenly felt a bit wary. He stepped away from the stove to see Calleigh walking in with Ray. He nodded, thinking his gut is just being paranoid in all this now.
"Hey, something smells great." Calleigh said now standing with Ray Jr.
He smiled at her. "That's uncle Horatio's slamming good pancakes, he makes them awesome, wait till you taste them... You're gonna love them!"
Calleigh laughed and Horatio turned to Ray. "Ok Ray, next time, take a breath in between sentences."
Ray laughed. "Yeah I know, mom yells at me all the time for talking too much and to fast."
Horatio chuckled and smiled listening to him talk a mile a minute. "Why don't you both have a seat." He said.
"Can I help you with something?" Calleigh asked now and Ray said he already helped and set the table. Calleigh smiled. "Ok, how about I pour us some more coffee?"
Horatio turned with a platter full of pancakes. "Have a seat, I have it." His voice was so soft and smooth it just made her melt.
She gave him a small smile. "Ok." She said, and as he turned her eyes scanned him. She noticed he took a shower and changed, she could smell his cologne easily filling her senses.
He poured some more coffee for them both and sat down. He gave Ray three pancakes to start and he looked at him.
"Uncle Horatio I'm 11 now I can eat five easily."
"Ok Ray, why don't you start with those first, ok?" He smiled at him and nodded.
Ray nodded. "Ok, but you'll see." He poured a lot of syrup on them and slid his lump of butter all around them.
Horatio watched him and chuckled, it wasn't long before Calleigh joined in and laughed.
He chuckled, "How many Cal?"
"Two thank you." He gave her a grin putting them in her plate.
Horatio took three and just picked up his fork as Ray said, "Done!" Horatio brows rose up.
"I told you uncle Horatio, they're just too good, and I need more please... Don't you Calleigh?"
She chuckled. "Well Ray, first I have to eat these."
Horatio put two more and Ray looked at him. "Make it three uncle Horatio, please… I feel really hungry and I only get your pancakes…once in a while."
Horatio smiled and gave him the three pancakes. Thinking now, he wished he could see the boy more. They all ate and Ray made chit chat. Calleigh was quick to join in.
"I have to say these are the best pancakes I ever had." She smiled at Horatio.
Ray nodded with his mouth full. "I told you Calleigh, see. See uncle Horatio, everyone loves your pancakes." He laughed with his mouth full, shoveling more in. "The chocolate milk is great with them too Calleigh, thanks"
Horatio chuckled and shook his head at Ray. "Thank you both." He looked down shyly and Calleigh wanted to just hug him tight.
Ray finished and went to get washed up. He went into the living room and watched TV.
Horatio and Calleigh spoke quietly. Taking a mouthful of his coffee he looked over at her. "I called Eric and checked on the numbers she called."
Calleigh looked over at Ray and spoke softly. "What did you find?"
He whispered low. "She called Raymond twice, her mother once, and then agent Park, two times."
Calleigh's eyes went wide. "So she called agent Park, but why?
"That's what we're going to find out. I want to head over to the house and have a look around. If you want to get some rest I understand, you did a double already."
She nodded. "No, I'm fine and I want to help you process it. Four eyes are better than two, right? "
He smiled and nodded. "Thank you, yes."
They finished and cleaned up. Calleigh was helping him dry off the dishes when she looked over to Ray Jr. He was out cold on the couch.
She nudged Horatio and he turned and nodded. "I don't think he slept well last night and he was up early this morning. He's exhausted, its good he's sleeping."
"You have to be exhausted too, Horatio? You're on a triple heading for a... quadruple" She chuckled.
He gave her a wide smile and held her eyes. "I'm fine sweetheart." He took a step closer to her and the bell rang. Horatio looked at the clock., It was only 8:15 and they weren't due until 9:00.
Ray woke up and headed for the door quickly.
Horatio called out. "Wait Ray…" He just wasn't feeling right today…He kept getting this bad feeling.
His hand went down to his sidearm. Calleigh's eyes followed his hand and she unsnapped hers also, as the door opened slowly and Raymond came walking in. Agent Cole and a few others followed behind. Horatio exhaled and Calleigh did to, she knew his feelings were usually right.
"DAD!" He hugged Raymond, excited now.
Horatio walked over to agent Cole. "I thought we said 9:00?"
"Talk to your brother, he was anxious to get out of there and said you would be waiting."
Horatio nodded,. "How you feeling Raymond?"
"I'm feeling better, Horatio. The doc gave me a clean bill, thanks." He looked around. "Where's Yelina?"
"Umm, she had to go down to MDPD to give another statement."
Ray caught Horatio's look and knew something was wrong.
Calleigh got Ray Juniors attention now as Horatio, Raymond and Agent Park went outside to talk.
Horatio spoke with Ray. "Agent Park somehow got to Yelina; she changed her story and said she shot you. Do you know how or why she would do this?"
Ray nodded. "No Horatio, she told me last night everything was ok." Horatio held his gaze a moment in suspicion. Ray looked down.
Horatio nodded,, "Ok so, you be careful and keep a close eye on Ray Jr. he needs you now."
"Ok, big brother, I will."
Agent Cole cut in. "Lieutenant, I'll make sure they speak with you, I'll keep you in the loop and let you know what's going on, ok?"
"That would be appreciated agent Cole."
"Ok, I think the sooner we move them the better."
Horatio nodded. "Ok, I understand." He paused and looked at Raymond. "Watch your back, ok?" He nodded and so did Horatio.
He opened the door to the house and called Ray Jr out. "See you later Ray."
He smiled up at him. "Ok, and thank for the pancakes uncle Horatio, I always have a good time with you. I hope I can see you again real soon."
Horatio nodded. "Me too Ray, me too. You listen to your dad now, ok son?" He placed his hand on his shoulder and gave him a smile.
He smiled and nodded. "Ok uncle Horatio, I will, bye and tell Calleigh I said bye too."
"Alright Ray, I will." He waved as the feds led them to an unmarked black ford explorer.
Agent Cole nodded to Horatio. "I'll take care of them, you can trust me."
Horatio nodded. "I know that, thank you. It's the others I worry about."
"Well I know who's on my team and it's clean Horatio. You have my word; I'll call you in a few hours. You keep you're eyes open as well, ok?"
Horatio nodded. "Always."
They pulled away and left. Horatio went back inside and closed the door, facing it. He let out a heavy breath as Calleigh watched him lean on the door shaking his head.
He turned and saw her, he was surprised. He nodded to her and stopped as she moved closer to him, seeing the true man now. He was upset and worried for his family. She tried to comfort him now.
She lightly caressed his arm and put a warm hand to his cheek. "Why don't you get some rest now, we can check the house later?"
He nodded. "No, I want Yelina out of there today, I'm fine really."
She nodded and spoke so softly to him now. "How about... you just relax till 9:00... that's what we had to do before right? C'mon just sit down for a moment. An hour is better than anything." She moved him down onto the couch.
He was exhausted and looked up at her with unsure eyes. He nodded. "One hour, no more Calleigh, promise you'll wake me in one hour?"
She smiled. "I promise." as she sat down next to him.
She caressed his hair and forehead for just a few seconds before he was out cold. She shook her head, wanting him to really sleep. She watched him sleep for a while as she took sips from her coffee. She smiled seeing his red chest hair barely near the third top button. His scent overpowered her and her body tingled up and down. Her eyes slowly slid down his body. He had on a dark blue silk shirt and black suite pants. She watched his chest rise and fall slowly but now noticed he was breathing harder. She knew he was not sleeping peacefully as his breathing increased even more.
Just a few minutes went by and he awoke suddenly, his head shot up and he looked around quickly, breathing heavy. His hand went down to his sidearm.
Calleigh put a gentle hand on his shoulder and he turned to her. "You're dreaming it's ok."
He nodded, squinting his eyes and shaking his head back and forth. He ran his hands over his face and let out a heavy breath. "Ok, so much for that."
She moved quickly before he got up. She placed her hand on his arm and held him as her eyes held his. "No, lay back, you need the rest Horatio."
He nodded. "No, I'm up... let's go get this over with, ok?" He looked dazed, she thought, and wondered what he dreamed.
She nodded. "Horatio… you're exhausted and—"
"I'm fine Calleigh, c'mon let's go, lets find something to help clear Yelina." He got up and she looked at him in shock.
He went to the bathroom and splashed some cold water on his face, refreshing his body more now. He walked back out with red cheeks and grabbed his suite jacket off the chair, slipping it on.
"You ready?"
She nodded and held his eyes. "Um-hmm."
He looked down and went to the front door opening it and holding it for her. She walked past him now as she snapped out, "I'm driving and your riding."
His brows rose and a grin instantly appeared on his face. He pulled the door closed and followed her to the hummer. Inside he was laughing at her feistiness but loving every moment of it, that was his Calleigh, she said it like it was.
She opened the passenger side door and held it for him. "Sir"
He chuckled and gave her a smile, "Thank you ma'am." He got in and waited for her to get in as he turned to her and stared a moment. She gave him a quick glance and started the engine. She pulled out and felt his hand rest gently on her thigh.
She gave him a quick look and turned back to the road. "If you want to make it there in one piece, you had better remove that hand."
He grinned and his brows arched in surprise. "Oh, I… I just wanted to say thank you."
She chuckled. "You're welcome and next time just... use your lips."
He chuckled now. "Mmm, I can do that too… if you'd like."
She shook her head back and forth. "Even exhausted you're still quick with that tongue."
He chuckled deeply now and she shook her head and closed her eyes for a second hearing her words to him. She said sharply to him now before he could get a word out.
"Don't answer that."
He chuckled. "I didn't plan to… you did it already."
She gave him a look as he gently squeezed the top of her thigh and let his hand slide off. His phone rang and he took it out and flipped it open.
"Horatio"
"Lieutenant Caine, Agent Cole. I just wanted to let you know we reached our destination and all is well."
"Thank you agent Cole, I appreciate your call."
"I'll keep you updated on our status and you do the same, ok?"
"Yes, I will." He closed his phone.
Calleigh gave him a glance. "Everything ok?"
"Yes, everything is fine. That was agent Cole letting us know exactly that."
"Good, at least they're safe, now we can concentrate on helping Yelina."
He smiled and turned to her. "You're reading my mind again, sweetheart?"
She smiled and pulled the car up in front of the house. They both got out and Calleigh grabbed her field kit walking up to the front door now.
Horatio broke the seal and opened the door walking in. He paused and his hands went to his hips, as he scanned the area with his eyes. Calleigh walked past him and set her kit down. She found the spot that was labeled 2 where Ray was shot and the blood stains were in the carpet.
"Ok so Ray is 2 and Yelina is 1, over there." She stood up and walked over as Horatio watched her.
Calleigh nodded standing near the wall. She took out her laser light to see the path of the bullet.
Horatio walked over to her and moved behind her to see the exact path himself now. He nodded, "That's it alright." He exhaled and turned to the wall. "It looks like Eric processed the whole wall." He pointed down to the floor. "That's going to be Yelina's blood from her head wound." He nodded looking down now.
Calleigh move back to the spot where Ray was shot. Horatio's eyes narrowed on her for a moment and then he turned to the wall. He turned back to Calleigh and nodded, disturbed by something.
She looked at him and waited; knowing he was working something out in his head. She walked back over to him and he lifted his head up.
"Yelina said she was hit from behind and didn't see it coming, right?"
Calleigh nodded. "Mm-hmm."
Both his hands went to his hips and he nodded no to her. "Ok, here's the problem I am having with that." His eyes narrowed and he nodded again. "That would be impossible from here; the wall behind her is... in the way. If she was standing here she would have seen her attacker coming at her from the side, no?" He let out another breath and walked a few steps over.
Calleigh looked at the angle and nodded. "If she was looking ahead at Raymond she would have seen the attacker as soon as he came into her peripheral view. There's no way he could have got behind her from here, without her seeing." Calleigh stood in the exact same spot to see.
Horatio nodded. "I agree… But, if the attack was from here, the right side…" He tilted his head and looked at Calleigh.
She looked at him. "What are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking her head wound…" He paused and nodded his head.
"Horatio, her head wound is on the back right side of her head… not the left."
He nodded. "She was hit from here. It had to come from this angle, right? So that would make the shooter… standing right here." His eyes narrowed again, this was not working out. "Calleigh stand here and lets see the direction with the laser-light."
He moved and Calleigh stepped into the area and turned on the light. The angle was still off, it was wrong. "If the shooter was here, the trajectory would have taking on an upward left angle. This can't be right." She turned more to the right but that just made the angle worse. This wasn't making sense. She nodded and moved the light around trying to see what would give her that right upward angle.
Horatio nodded and moved back to where Yelina spot was. "Let me have that a moment." He reached his hand out for the laser light.
Calleigh handed it to him and he took a step back and into Yelina's exact place, it suddenly all made sense to him as his eyebrows rose up in surprise. He held the laser light and clenched his jaw down. He nodded his head back and forth as the words came right out of his mouth.
"She did shoot Ray…" He paused in shock himself now. He nodded yes. "She did it, I can't-- why would she…?" His eyes narrowed again and opened wide.
Calleigh was surprised but it all made sense and she realized something else now as Horatio stood there trying to figure this out. "Horatio, look at the angle… she shot Ray but someone was here to her right… probably pointing a gun at her head. That's where she was hit, right. In that exact spot."
Horatio turned to her and held her eyes. He nodded. "They held a gun to her head, they wanted it to be by her hand. That's makes sense now and that was where she was hit from." He licked his lips and looked around.
Calleigh was still confused. "But why is she lying to us now? She was out and free. Why change your story now, I don't get it?"
His eyes narrowed and went down a moment. His head came back up and he nodded to her. "I do. We need to go, right now, I'll explain it to you on the way."
She looked at him in shock and they both quickly left the house and got into the hummer. Horatio got behind the wheel now and she gave him a look.
He pulled out and began talking to her. "The phone calls she made last night, she spoke with agent Park. Ray Jr. over heard her and shared a couple of things with me. He said she was upset after she called her mother, but she never got to talk to her, he said.
Calleigh gasped realizing his urgency now. "They have her mother... that's why she won't talk. Oh my god."
He nodded. "Right… and I'm betting they forced her to shoot Raymond. They used her mother against her, and that's why she shot Ray in the shoulder. She could have easily killed him from there."
Calleigh turned to him again. "Horatio does Raymond know about all this? Why didn't he tell you?"
Horatio's eyes went wide thinking now. "Because Calleigh, he's going to try and make this right himself." He just realized it as she said it to him. He exhaled and opened his cell quickly.
"Agent Cole, is Ray still with you?
"Of course he is, I told you—"
"Check right now… agent Cole just go check!"
Horatio heard muffling sounds then loud voices. "Are you and idiot! How did you let him out of your sight!
"Horatio, he's gone… I don't know how—"
"Is Ray Jr still—"
"Yes, he's here and fine."
"Let me talk to him agent Cole."
"Ok, here."
"Ray, Ray do you know where your dad went? Talk to me son."
"Um… he told me he had something important to do."
"Ray this is really important, you're dad could be in trouble son."
"No uncle Horatio, he just said he was going to help grandma and mom."
"Alright Ray, listen, stay with the agents, ok?"
"My dad made me promise to uncle Horatio."
"Ok son give the phone back to agent Cole, I'll see you later."
Agent Cole had regret in his voice. "Horatio, I don't know what to say to you—"
"Ok, I have an idea, just be ready when I need you, ok?"
"Yes, I will be."
"Ok, I'll be in touch." He closed his phone.
Calleigh looked at him. "Ray is going after them himself."
Horatio nodded now. "We're going to help him, I know where he is. I just hope he's still there."
He pulled up and looked at Calleigh. "This is Yelina's mothers house, I think he may be here, but the feds could be too. So let be very cautious, ok?"
She was quick. "Ok, I'll head around back."
"No, I don't know how many… we're both going in the front, c'mon."
They got out and headed up the walkway both looking around, everything seemed very quiet. Horatio went up to the door and it was cracked opened. He signaled to Calleigh as they both had their guns ready. They went in slow and quietly. There was a sound from deeper inside and Horatio went first and Calleigh stood beside him. They both were looking out for each other as they moved from room to room. It was the bedroom and someone was definitely in there, he nodded to her getting ready to go in. He stood in front of the door and Calleigh stood leaning on the wall to the side. He slowly moved forward as a body came flying fast out at him and shoved him back out and into the wall. His gun dropped as he hit the wall hard and a knee caught him in the stomach. He grabbed a hold of the man and hung on.
Calleigh was ready with her gun aimed. "FREEZE, don't move!"
Horatio's eyes went wide as he looked into Raymond's eyes. "RAY!"
"Horatio! What are…?" Ray's eyes went wide as he realized his situation. He backed off of Horatio and stared at him in shock. "Are you ok… I didn't know…it was you."
Horatio got his breath back and picked up his gun putting it back in his holster. "What are you doing here? Why did you leave the feds Ray?"
Calleigh put her gun down and watched in shock.
"Horatio, you don't know what's going on."
"Yes I do Raymond, I know everything."
Ray looked at him in shock. "How?"
"Yelina shot you because they threatened her mother right? They set her up and made her pull the trigger, all the evidence would point to her, right? When did they take her mother Ray?"
"You do know?" Ray eyes went wide in disbelief.
Horatio nodded. "Yes now let's do something about it and help her, ok Ray?"
Ray took a step back and he gave Horatio a look.
Horatio knew he was going to bolt, his voice warned him. "Ray…Raymond, don't think about it…"
Ray took another step and looked at Calleigh quick and back to Horatio. "Sorry, big brother." He said fast.
Calleigh knew he was going to run now.
"RAY! Raymond….don-"
He went to run and Horatio was on him in a second as they both went tumbling down into the bedroom this time. Ray grabbed his hands but Horatio quickly rolled him onto his stomach and got control.
"Ray, calm down… stop Ray…. Will you... just listen to me for a second?" He clenched his teeth. "Raymond so help me… in two seconds I'll cuff you."
"Get off of me, Horatio! I can take care of myself!"
"Ray, either we do this together or not at all Ray. I'll bring you right back to the feds."
"ALRIGHT! Just get off of me."
Horatio got up slowly and Calleigh closed the bedroom door now standing in front of it. Horatio nodded his thanks to her out of breath now, he was about ready to fall over from exhaustion. If Ray tried again he would have to stop and open the door, very unlikely with Calleigh standing there now.
Ray looked at him. "After all this time and you can still pin me."
"Ray, where are you supposed to meet them?"
"At an abandoned warehouse off of First Street. I have to be there by noon or they're going to kill her."
"Ok, ok… you have what they want, the evidence?"
"Yeah, I have it."
"Ok, let's put a vest on you and let me call for some back up. C'mon, let's go get them together, alright?"
"Well big brother that's the first good thing I heard you say."
They walked out to the hummer and they all put on vests. Horatio made a call to the feds and agent Cole, who planned to meet them now.
They set Ray up with a wire so they could hear what was happening. Swat and the feds set up around the building quietly and waited.
Horatio stood in front of him now looking him over. "Raymond don't take any chances, ok?"
He nodded. "Don't worry, I'm good at this big brother."
"Ray, they're playing for keeps so watch yourself."
He patted Horatio on the shoulder. "Thanks for everything, Horatio." He smiled and walked away.
Horatio nodded, not feeling comfortable at all about this, he had a bad feeling that was not going away. Calleigh saw him and wanted to comfort him but this was not the time, everyone was around. She caught his eyes and nodded and he knew as his head replied and his eyes crinkled just a bit. They both moved in close to hear the monitors.
Ray walked in and was quickly grabbed by two men, they held him as agent Park walked over.
"You know, you're a real pain in the ass… the both of you Caine brothers." He rammed his fist into Ray's stomach hard. He choked and coughed as he doubled over. They lifted his head up and held it. "It better all be here… or your whole family is dead." He looked in the envelope and checked it all out.
Ray saw Yelina's mother blindfolded and tied sitting in a chair. "I gave you everything just like you asked, let her go now, you got me."
Agent Park smiled. "Yeah and you're gonna pay for it, so is she and I think I'll let your wife rot away in prison."
"C'mon we had a deal, you said—"
Ray was cut off as one of the men grabbed him by his shoulder wound and squeezed. He went down to the floor in agony holding his shoulder. "Arrrrrgggggg"
Agent Park laughed. "I have a new deal for you, ok?"
Ray looked up at him.
Agent Park smiled. "The new deal is after I kill you both; I'm going after your son too." He laughed.
"You lying bastard… you leave my son…" Ray got up and lunged for him as the two men grabbed him again and beat him down. They were busy kicking and punching him as the swat team and feds moved in now.
They quickly took out two feds guarding the mother and took her outside and into an awaiting ambulance. Now Agent Park and the others began to run for it. They made it as far as the front where agent Cole and his team were waiting.
"Don't move, freeze!"
All guns were on them and they stood now with their hands up.
Horatio and Calleigh watched as they cuffed them one by one.
Suddenly someone yelled "GUN!"
Ray grabbed Agent Park now and held his gun to his head. Horatio and Calleigh eyes went wide and Horatio moved right in.
"Raymond let him go. We have him Ray, he's done. He's going away for life Ray."
"You heard him… You all heard him! He was gonna kill Ray Jr. and the whole family he said!"
"Ray we have the proof and evidence. He's done Raymond; c'mon put that gun down, he's not worth the bullet.
Agent Cole moved in now near Horatio. "Raymond listen to me, he's going to pay for everything. Remember he works for the federal government… he's through, our laws are harsher and he will pay dearly. Don't do this, put the gun down and let him face justice for all that he's done.
Horatio moved even closer. "Ray listen to me, your family needs you and I know you want to be there for them right? What would they do without you Ray? Think of your son, Ray Jr. Think of what Yelina did for you. He's garbage Ray and not worth you giving up your life for him."
Horatio held his eyes and moved in, right in front of agent Park. "Give me the gun Ray, it's ok, its all over." He reached and gently took the gun from Ray's shaky hand. He held his eyes and nodded to him. "You got him, just like you wanted, you did it Ray, he's going down."
Horatio pulled agent Park away from Ray and stared into his eyes for a moment. His cheek twitched as anger showed in his eyes and on his face. He narrowed his eyes and nodded. "Life behind bars in a federal prison, how's that sound? I'll even bet some of your friends are going to recognize you when you get there. I wonder what they are going to do when they see you..." Horatio leaned into him and his voice went low and menacing. "Do you know what they do to dirty feds?" Horatio held his gaze. "Well it seems to me you're going to find out, if they let you live that long." The swat team moved right in and cuffed him, then read them all their rights.
Agent Cole stepped in front of agent Park. "You and your men are going away for a long, long time. The federal judge is going to throw away the key when he hears your case. Treason, Federal Criminal conspiracy, Sabotage, kidnapping, assault, Duress and Fraud. Should I go on? Just wait until the ATF gets a hold of you guys. The rest of your miserable life will be spent in a federal prison and I couldn't agree more. Agents like you give us all a bad name, I feel sick just looking at you. Take them away, get them out of my sight!"
Agent Cole turned to Horatio and the others. "Lieutenant, I can't thank you enough. I will see to it your lab gets credit for this case, you all helped in the pursuit to catch them. I'll see to it Mrs. Salsas is released and cleared being she was threatened and under a state of duress."
Agent Cole continued to speak with Horatio as Ray walked over to the hummer and took off the wire and vest.
Calleigh followed him over making sure he was ok. "Hey Raymond, you ok?" She asked softly.
Horatio was speaking with agent Cole but his eyes stood on Calleigh and Ray.
His head came up and he smiled rubbing his ribs. "Yeah, a little sore but I'll be fine now. Thanks Calleigh… for everything. I know how you helped in all this, Horatio told me about you."
She looked at him questioningly. "Really…" She looked over at Horatio who caught her glance and turned back to Ray. "What exactly did he say?" She smiled curiously now.
Ray chuckled putting his shirt back on and buttoning it up. "Well, he said he loved you."
Her eyes went wide and before she knew it her face went beet red and hot. She stared down at the floor and closed her eyes for a moment. Trying to gain her composure.
Ray chuckled seeing her blush, "You asked."
She nodded and looked away and right into the eyes of Horatio. He gave her a curious look and tilted his head, seeing her red cheeks. She looked down again and nodded.
Ray chuckled, "I have a few pointers for you, if you're interested." He laughed. "First of all, he's kind of a stiff ass... but loosen as time goes on. It may take some time but he'll grow on you… oh and never expect to figure out what's going on in that head of his. If he does tell you, then consider yourself lucky. He never shares his thoughts with anyone, so maybe you'll have a better chance now that I warned you."
Calleigh Stared at him and suddenly laughed. She looked down then back up at Ray. She shrugged, "I guess I'm lucky then."
Rays eyes opened in surprise. "Well he did say he loved you and I never heard my big brother say it out loud before. Its obvious you're very special to him."
She nodded no to Ray. "He's the one that's special, you got that backwards, I'm the lucky one."
Ray nodded back with a smile as his eyes gave her the once over. "Not from where I'm standing."
Calleigh's face suddenly felt hot again and went red. She blushed as Horatio came walking over to them.
He tilted his head to try and see her face that was looking down. He looked at Raymond and his brows went up to him in question.
Ray gave him and innocent look and smiled. "I think... she has something in her eye."
Horatio looked at her again and she was clearly chuckling now still looking down.
He looked back at Ray then her. "Calleigh, you ok?"
She nodded and lifted her head. "I'm fine, it's just… my eye." She looked back up now and with a red face held his gaze.
Horatio nodded with a furrow of his brows at both of them. "Ray, you ok with all this?"
"Yeah, I'm a bit sore but I'll be fine now. So what's the game plan big brother?"
"Ok, I'm heading over to MDPD to get Yelina out. I'll meet you two over at the hospital."
Calleigh looked at Horatio in question and realized.
Ray did too now. "Horatio I'm fine, I don't need to go to the hospital."
"Yes you do, your shoulder is bleeding and I want Joe to check you out. You're going to be going into the federal witness protection plan, So I need to know you're ok. You understand Ray?"
"Yeah, I got you big brother."
"And Raymond, agent Cole is setting you up pretty nicely. You'll be very comfortable, all of you." Horatio paused and looked down. "You're still going to go through the program right?"
He nodded. "Yes, I am Horatio, just like I said."
Horatio nodded. "Ok, so Calleigh the feds are going to drive you two over there. Keep an eye on him and make sure Joe checks him out. I already called him and he's said it wasn't a problem. So, I'll meet you two over there, ok?
"Calleigh nodded and smiled. "Ok, we got it. So we'll see you in a bit, try not to upset Stetler to much." She chuckled walking to the unmarked ford explorer with Ray.
Horatio chuckled and nodded talking under his breath, watching them get into the truck. "That is going to be my pleasure." He adjusted his gun and walked to the hummer getting in and pulling away.
He arrived at MDPD and walked right up to a very tired Frank. "I thought you were heading home for some sleep."
"Yeah, so did I. You here to see Yelina?" Frank snapped tiredly.
Horatio nodded no. "I'm here to take her home, did you get the call yet?"
Frank wiped his lip and nodded in disgust. "This day just keeps getting better and better."
"I hear you." Horatio chuckled and Frank gave him a look.
"Go on in and see her and let me find out if we got the call yet, H."
"Good idea Frank, because I see a problem heading this way… See ya." He quickly walked to the back where the interrogation rooms were. He went in with a nod to the officer standing there.
She saw him and stood up, her eyes searched his. "What are you doing here?"
He held her eyes and nodded. "Its over, everything's ok. I know what you did and why you did it now."
"Horatio?"
"Your mothers fine and on her way back home. Raymond and Ray Jr as well. Its all over and you are leaving here with me now."
She looked at him in shock. "If you know what I did, then I can't—"
"You were under a state of duress and threatened by them. You can't and won't be charged. You're free to go." He gave her a small grin. "It's over Yelina."
She looked down and moved to him slowly standing in front of him now. "Horatio, I couldn't tell you… they said they would kill her and my whole family."
"I know, I understand Yelina, its ok."
She nodded and wrapped both arms high around his neck and gave him a hug. She leaned her head on his chest and spoke softly. "I'm… so sorry, Horatio."
He swallowed hard and was surprised. "Um ok, why don't we… get you out of here and back with your family, ok?"
She lifted her head and looked at him cupping his cheek. She nodded, "Thank you so much, thank you Horatio."
He smiled feeling a bit uncomfortable. "That's not necessary, alright, C'mon." He opened the door and held it as she walked out.
They made it as far as Frank before Stetler yelled. "Horatio wait!"
Frank looked over and nodded talking under his breath. "Here we go again."
Horatio grinned. "Frank did you get the call?"
"Yeah H, we got it a few minutes ago and she's all set. "Take care Yelina, it was good seeing you."
She smiled and nodded to Frank. "Thank you Frank. Take care."
Horatio spoke. "I'll see you later and thank you Frank."
Stetler finally made his way over and stood in front of Horatio. "She admitted to shooting Ray and you got her released, is that correct?"
Horatio nodded and looked down. "Well if you know about the call, then you understand she was under duress and threatened. Just in case you want to read the final report Rick, I'll leave a copy with the front desk."
"This isn't the end, Horatio."
Horatio eyes bore through him and he nodded. "As a matter of fact, it is Rick." He placed both hands on his hips and took a step closer to him. He was way to tired for this right now.
Stetler backed up. "Are you threatening me, Horatio?"
"Take it anyway you like Rick, but get out of my way."
He looked at Yelina and back to Horatio. "She's not worth it you know."
Horatio nodded and clenched his jaw down. "Rick, I'm warning you-"
Yelina moved around him quickly now going at Stetler. She swung her right hand and slapped him hard in the face.
Horatio's reaction was slow as he stared in shock and awe. He saw Stetler's hand go up and he made a move getting in between them and gave him a look that could kill. "Rick… Rick…"
Yelina stood there now right in his face. "What's the matter the big bad Stetler has nothing to say? Of course not! Now get out of our way!"
Horatio looked down with a slight grin, still standing in front of Yelina.
Stetler moved out of the way now. "This isn't over, I'll bring you up on charges, Yelina."
She yelled back as Horatio moved her out the door. "Be my guest, Stetler!" She suddenly chuckled and Horatio grinned.
"C'mon rocky, lets get you back with your family." He chuckled as he opened the door for her and she got in. He was now heading for the hospital.
III
Calleigh and Ray arrived at the hospital and Joe took him right in. He made Ray lay on the table as he stopped the bleeding and restitched him. Calleigh waited outside in the waiting room as the two feds guarded the door.
Joe came walking out and right into one of them. He looked at the huge man and nodded. "You don't have to guard the door while I'm in there."
The fed gave him a look and moved over. He could easily knock Joe on his ass, but Joe didn't scare easily.
Calleigh chuckled and stood seeing Joe pissed off. He walked over to her with a smile and one of the feds followed him.
Joe turned and looked over his shoulder at him. "You have got to be kidding me?" He looked at the fed and placed a hand on his hip annoyed.
Calleigh nodded to the fed. "We're fine agent Reed, thank you." He nodded back to her and she followed Joe into his office.
Joe gave her a look and shook his head. "Is all that really necessary?"
She smiled. "I'm afraid it is Joe. He's a really important witness now and we have to make sure to protect him. Is he ok?"
Joe nodded. "Yeah, he'll be fine in just a bit. It takes a while for the blood to clot which is why I have Cathy holding pressure on it now. The vitamin k will kick in soon too and clot his blood more. It will take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, but he should be fine after this."
Calleigh smiled. "Thanks Joe, for everything. Thanks for keeping a close eye on Horatio when he was here. I felt better knowing…" She looked down and blushed.
He laughed. "I understand Calleigh, your welcome." He smiled widely and his blue eyes twinkled at her. Joe scratched his head feeling hot all of a sudden. "Did he tell you they talked it out?"
She looked at him questioningly. "Tell me what?"
Joe looked down, whoops he thought now. "I um… Happened to walk into…" He looked up trying to find his next words. "Um, they talked things out and I think they both felt better, you know."
She looked at him confused and smiled. "You walked in on them, didn't you?"
He chuckled now feeling very comfortable with her. He nodded and raised his hand up. "Yeah and it wasn't intentional."
She laughed. "I already figured that out, Joe."
"Right…" He chuckled scratching the back of his neck. "I heard arguing and I look at the two cops at the door and they both just turn away from me."
"So you went in to check…" Calleigh eyes went wide and she laughed and covered her mouth.
"I'm glad you are getting a kick out of all of this." Joe chuckled back at her. "Yeah and I see Ray shoving Horatio against the wall. Now I'm thinking, I need to break this up, but then Horatio starts talking to Ray and next thing you know they're hugging." Joe looked down and smiled. "I think Horatio really got through this time, I think Ray is going to do better. Horatio is… um… Ray's lucky to have him for a brother."
She smiled at him and had watery eyes. He held her gaze and looked down quietly.
"So you slipped out undetected after all." She smiled.
He nodded. "No, Horatio saw me and I saw him… but I wouldn't say anything… I mean that's between the two of them right. I was just… sharing with you." He smiled and she nodded.
"Thanks Joe, you can share with me anytime." She smiled.
There was a knock on the door and they both looked up. Calleigh saw agent Reed peeking in. "Agent Reed is everything ok?" She got up and went over to him.
He looked at her and nodded looking at Joe. "Agent Reed, Dr. Gannon is on our team, ok? We're fine, thank you."
He nodded to her and as she turned he checked her out up and down. Joe's eyebrows went up and Calleigh saw and gave him a look.
"What?"
Joe quickly scratched his head again. "No, no nothing."
Calleigh gave him a look, "No I know that look Joe, what?"
He leaned forward over his desk to her and she leaned in. He whispered low. "I think agent Reed is um… looking out for you… if you get my drift."
She chuckled. "No, I'm sure you're mistaken, it's just his job."
Joe nodded now. "Oh, I don't think so." He chuckled. "So where's Horatio and how is he doing?"
She nodded. "He hasn't slept in three days and I am making sure he goes home after this and gets some rest." She lightly grazed her hand over her chest and the necklace thinking of him.
Joe smiled and chuckled. "If he gives you trouble… just spike his coffee."
Calleigh gave him a glare.
He put both hands up. "I'm only joking Calleigh… It's a joke."
She chuckled. "I know, it had better be." She sassed to him, holding the rose with her fingers as she spoke and Joe noticed it now.
"That's different, is that a rose?"
She smiled and nodded. "Yep, it's a rose."
He grinned and knew instantly. "Horatio gave you that."
She nodded. "Yeah." Then thought about their time together, smiling now.
Joe gave her a grin. "It's beautiful and I am really glad you two finally got together."
She smiled and nodded. "Me too Joe, me to."
There was another knock on the door and Calleigh chuckled as Joe groaned. "What now? Come in!" He snapped out abruptly.
Horatio opened the door and stuck his head in, peeking.
Joe stood up and looked shocked. He put a hand up, "Sorry… um… Horatio, come in."
Calleigh laughed looking at Joe and he shook his head.
Horatio walked in and gave Calleigh a look. "She chuckled, agent Reed is being… over protective. We thought you were him again."
Horatio nodded. "I see. So how is Raymond doing?"
"He's going to be fine, Horatio. I'm giving him some vitamin k now and that should clot his blood again. I restitched the wound and he's fine."
Horatio nodded. "Thank you Joe, I appreciate you taking care of Raymond."
Joe got up. "Ok, let me go check on the wound, I'll be right back." He got up and left as Calleigh and Horatio both got up and went outside.
Calleigh stopped and looked at him. "How is Yelina?"
He grinned. "Yelina's fine... Stetler took a right though."
Calleigh's eyes went wide. "Oh my god, no way!" She chuckled.
He cleared his throat. "My reaction time was... a bit slow." He wiggled his eyebrows at her.
She chuckled and shook her head. "I would have paid to see that."
He chuckled low and bounced on his toes. "Mm-hmm, I got to see it for free and up close." His eyes narrowed on the agent at the door. He was looking Calleigh over quite a bit.
Calleigh turned and saw Horatio's attention on something else. "Did you want to check on Ray?"
"Umm, no… I'm sure Joe will let us know."
The door opened and Joe came out, he waved Horatio and Calleigh over, they both went in the room. Joe explained things and Calleigh's cell phone rang.
She walked out of the room and opened it. "Hey Alexx."
"Honey, how did everything go?"
"Everything worked out great, Ray is ok and Yelina can't be charged. Horatio even had agent Cole set them up in the witness protection program. Things look good all around Alexx."
"That's great baby, are you two coming back here?"
"Um, that's a good question Alexx. I don't know what he plans on doing. I wish he would go home and get some sleep."
"Well I heard a little secret that our entire team has off tomorrow because of all the hard work and double shifts we put in the last few days."
"Your kidding me?"
"No I'm not honey, so you can make sure he gets some rest now. You have all day Friday to keep him in bed." She chuckled.
Calleigh grinned. "You're an angel Alexx."
"Well I don't know about that baby." She laughed. "If you want to grab a bite to eat later call me, if you can get him to rest, that is."
"That sounds great Alexx, I will."
"Good honey, because don't think for one moment I forgot about your little vacation. I want to hear all about it. I also notice that new necklace you have been wearing; I can't imagine where that could have come from." She chuckled.
Calleigh laughed and smiled. "I didn't think you saw it."
"Oh honey, I saw it right away. When you two came in that first day, you both had a glow about you. It looks beautiful but I want to see it up close."
"It is beautiful, it's a rose. I have to tell you later about this because I am beginning to beam with happiness right now."
"Ok, but don't you go and forget me now. Just tell me one thing that surprised you about him."
Her voice rose just a bit and she let her hair block her red face. "Alexx!" Calleigh thought about that for a second. Her voice rose with excitement now. "Ok, he's a really good dancer and he has such—"
"Calleigh, tell me later honey, you sound like a rocket ship ready for take off."
Calleigh laughed. "Oh god, you should only know."
Alexx laughed now. "Ok baby, I'll let you go now... I think you're rattled enough."
"Ok Alexx, I call you later and let you know, bye." Calleigh closed the phone and took a moment to compose herself. She walked to the water tank and filled a cup swallowing it in one big gulp. She filled it again and chuckled almost making herself choke.
"Excuse me, are you ok?"
She turned with a mouth full of water and looked up at the huge man before her. "Agent Reed, yes I'm fine, thank you."
He looked down and then smiled at her. "Call me Kyle, please."
She smiled. "Ok Kyle, and you can call me Calleigh."
The door opened and Horatio stepped out closing it behind him. He looked over in Calleigh's direction to see agent Reed talking to her. Her back was to him and he observed unnoticed and opened his phone.
"You're a CSI right? I heard a lot about you."
She gave him a look. "Really, like what?"
He looked up and nodded. "Um, I heard you're a really good shot."
She chuckled. "Well I do work in ballistic and shoot guns all the time."
He nodded. "I um... was wondering if you would um... like to maybe get together sometime? Maybe I can take you out for a nice dinner?"
She smiled and nodded. "I'm sorry but I'm inlove-involved with someone." She shook her head and quickly correctly herself. "That was very sweet of you, thank you." She fiddled with the chain still.
He nodded. "I had a feeling you were taken, but you are definitely worth the try." He smiled and nodded. "I hope to see you around Calleigh." He walked away and went back near the door.
Calleigh's face was red and hot again. He was so sweet she thought and she felt bad, but she had her man. She smiled thinking and he is all man. She zone out into Horatio land still fiddling with the rose.
"Ahem…"
Calleigh jumped as Horatio walked up behind her. "Oh my god. You have to stop doing that to me."
He chuckled. "You make it very tempting. You... looked like you were in deep thought again?"
She smiled. "Yes, that's right, I was, and…?" She sassed to him.
He leaned in close, "Care to share."
She chuckled. "I was thinking of you… if you must know." She smiled and gave him a smirk blushing. "I'm going to find the restroom now." She began to walk away and agent Reed was quick to follow her. She put her hand up to him. "I'm fine, stay with the witness, ok?"
He nodded and went back standing by the door. Horatio frowned and walked just a bit out to see her turning into the hallway. He walked back in and twiddled with his phone near the agents.
"Hey Kyle, I told you she was taken, a hot piece of ass like that."
"Shut up Dan. I didn't ask for your opinion."
"What she tell you… get lost." He chuckled.
"No, in fact she was really nice and you got the wrong idea about her."
"She's a bitch Kyle, just get over her."
His head turned and he moved to him. "Hey, don't talk about her that way, alright. You don't even know her."
"Yeah, well I know their all bitches."
"I told you not to talk about her that way. What's you're problem Dan?"
He chuckled. "You, going after a stuck up bitch who—"
Horatio stepped closer and cut him off hearing enough now. "Gentleman, we are in open space here." He looked at both of them intensely.
"Sorry sir… lieutenant." Agent Reed answered.
Horatio nodded. How long you both with the government?"
"Five years sir." Agent Reed said first.
Horatio nodded.
"Two years sir." Agent Brooks answered.
Calleigh came walking back in now and Horatio observed them both. First agent Reed looked her way but then right back and down. Agent Brooks looked her way and kept looking. Horatio narrowed his eyes on him and the agent still looked over at Calleigh.
Agent Reed elbowed him and nodded to Horatio. Agent Brooks eyes went wide and he looked at Horatio and then down.
Horatio glared at him walking right up to him. His voice went low and he looked down at his phone. "You have a problem agent Brooks."
"No sir."
"Then keep your eyes forward, you understand me?"
"Yes lieutenant, yes sir."
Horatio nodded and walked back over to Calleigh who was filling another cup of water. He faced her and kept his eyes on both agents. He saw Joe come out of the room and use his phone.
She spoke softly to him. "Hey, I just wanted to ask you if we are going back to the lab after this?"
"Um, the lab? No, unless you need to—"
"No, I just wasn't sure what you were planning to do, go home or go back to the lab?"
"I was planning on…" His eyes narrowed and his jaw set. Agent Brooks was really beginning to piss him off.
She looked over her left shoulder now to see he was staring at the agents.
Joe walked into his office and nodded to him. He let Calleigh go first as he eyed up agent Brooks. He walked in a moment after her.
"Sit down will ya, its going to be a little while longer." Joe gave them a smile." I just called up x-ray, I want to make sure the bleeding stopped and nothing else was damaged. You two want to go and grab a cup of coffee or anything, I think it should be done by then."
Horatio nodded. "Are you going to grab a cup of coffee?"
Joe smiled. "I don't know… you buying?"
Horatio nodded. "Only if you're carrying?"
Joe gave him a look. "Huh?"
Calleigh laughed, "He's staying here and wants you to carry it back."
One eyebrow of Joe's went up and he smirk. "I'm carrying I guess."
Calleigh chuckled. "I'll go with you, we'll carry together." She turned to Horatio. "Horatio should I get for Ray and Yelina."
He nodded and went to take out money and Calleigh put her hand up and walked out. "I got the coffee gentleman." Her hips swayed smoothly away.
Horatio watched her walked out and Joe shrugged. "I guess she's buying huh." He laughed and quickly followed behind.
She was talking to agent Reed now. Joe walked over and listened in as Horatio strolled out and stopped. He knew her to well.
"Would you guys like some coffee?" She asked politely.
Agent Reed smiled, "No thank you Calleigh."
Agent Brooks nodded. "No thank you ma'am."
"You guys sure, its just coffee?"
They both nodded and Calleigh walked away with Joe. Joe was grinning and Horatio held back a chuckle.
Horatio's eyes went back over to the agents. He saw agent Brooks lean forward and check her out once again. He nonchalantly moved closer and opened his phone pressing buttons.
Agent Reed started up the conversation. "See, I told you she wasn't stuck up. What woman do you know who would bother to ask if you wanted coffee while on duty?" He grinned.
"Alright so maybe she's not a bitch… that was nice of her I have to admit."
"You're admitting something….."
"I'll admit she is really hot and if she's nice too then... hey that's a package deal. Maybe I should ask her for her number." He looked at agent Reed and laughed. "I could probably get in her pants the first night.
"She would never date an asshole like you! She'd probably put a bullet right in your ass, if you tried."
"What is it with you and her?"
He nodded. "Don't you know who she is? That's Calleigh Duquesne the best shooter in all Miami. She's bullet girl." He smiled
"Oh, yeah, I knew I recognized that name. She supposed to be good."
"Good? She's great, and could whip your sorry ass any day."
"No way man, a woman beat me, never."
"She already beat you Dan, she has the record for the fastest and most accurate."
"You shitting me Kyle?"
"No and I'm loving every minute of it. Someone has to crush that ego of yours, who better than bullet girl."
Horatio almost busted out and turned back to the water tank as a smile formed on his face.
He saw both of them look to the door way and heard a bang. It was the x-ray machine.
He stepped forward and watched as both the feds eyed the tech and the cart. He liked how cautious they were. The door was opened and Yelina and Cathy came out. He walked over to the water cooler where they both were.
"How's he doing?"
Yelina nodded. "He's fine and I don't remember the last time I saw him smile."
Horatio smiled and nodded. "I did notice that.
"The x-ray won't take long, I'll be right back." Cathy walked away.
Calleigh and Joe came back with the coffees. Joe walked into the office and told them to have a seat. Yelina sat and nodded as Calleigh handed her a cup. Horatio stood and looked out the window for a moment as Calleigh walked over and handed him a cup.
He gave her a smile and tried to shake a yawn. "Thank you." His voice was low. She smiled as she noticed.
There was a knock and Cathy came in with the x-rays, she handed them to Joe.
Joe put them up on the board and flipped the light on. "Ok, Cathy you can tell him to get dressed and c'mon over."
"Ok, Dr. Gannon." She walked back out.
"Well he looks fine. Everything is healing nicely and the bleeding stopped. He's all set, if you have any questions now's the time."
Yelina nodded and Ray came walking. The feds stood outside Joe's door now.
"Well Ray your x-rays are fine and the bleeding stopped. You have any questions or anything you want to ask?"
"Nope, I feel fine since you gave me analgesic doc, I'm good."
"Ok, I'm writing a script and if you need more just call me." He handed it to Yelina who reached forward across his desk.
"Doc, thank you very much for everything." Ray said standing up shaking his hand. "You we're a big help and um, made things easier for me."
"Sure Ray, and like I said, call me if you have any problems. I'm a phone call away."
Ray smiled. "I just might take you up on that Doc."
Joe smiled. "You take care and go slow. Mrs. Salas it was a pleasure meeting you." Joe moved around the desk and looked at Calleigh and Horatio.
"Ok then we'll see you doc." Ray and Yelina went outside together.
Calleigh saw Horatio move to Joe, he still wanted to talk to him, she could tell. She walked over to Joe and said goodbye. "Joe thanks for everything again. You're a great person and a wonderful doctor, we're lucky to have met you." She gave him a hug and a very soft kiss on his cheek.
Joe looked down and smiled. "We'll um… I'm lucky myself Calleigh, to have met the both of you. You take care and always remember I'm just a phone call away, for anything, anytime, ok?" He gave her a serious look.
She nodded. "I think I proved that to you already, Joe?"
"Actually it was Alexx who made that call." He grinned.
She blushed and smiled. "Ok, but I was there too." She laughed and looking to Horatio she walked out. She walked over to Ray and Yelina.
Horatio spoke with Joe for a few minutes alone. "Do you think he'll be ok with everything?"
Joe nodded. "Yeah I spoke with his wife and told her to call me if the shakes act up again. The meds I gave him should help him get through it; the rest is up to him."
Horatio nodded.
"Horatio you know there's a really good rehab center right here. He'll be close to his family and you, It could be good for him?"
Horatio nodded no. "No, that wouldn't work, not until this case is over and goes to trial. He needs to get out of Miami for a while. I'll make sure he gets in a good center."
Joe nodded. "I understand. He seems a lot different then when I first met him. I'm not saying I know him but I have a feeling Ray is going to change for the better."
Horatio nodded. "Thank you, Joe."
"Don't thank me pal, I think it's because of you."
Horatio looked down and remained quiet. He knew Joe was talking about what he saw in the room that day. "Um… Things got a bit out of hand that day."
Joe patted Horatio's back. "Yeah, and from the looks of it, it was all for the best, Ray is a changed man."
Horatio smiled at him and looked back down. He put his hand out and shook Joe's hand. "Thank you Joe for helping my family and me."
"Anytime pal… anytime."
They walked out together and stood in the doorway watching the two leering agents stare at Calleigh's backside. The three of them were talking near the door. Calleigh's back was to them and both the agents had their eyes on them and her.
Joe whispered something to Horatio and he smiled. Horatio and Joe walked right up behind the agents and coughed, making them jump, getting their attention. They both straightened and looked away.
Joe chuckled to Horatio low, "They can't keep their eyes off her."
Horatio nodded clearly annoyed, "Yes, I can see that."
Joe chuckled and said goodbye as Horatio walked past both the feds and gave them both a look. Calleigh turned and he nodded as they all began to walk away. He slowed and moved her off to the side as the feds looked at him but kept moving with Ray and Yelina.
She looked at Horatio. "Everything ok?"
He nodded. "Do me a favor, ok?"
"Sure, what?"
"Make sure you walk behind the feds."
She chuckled and lowered her head nodding as she blushed. "Ok, no problem. It's a good thing we're not going with them though."
He whispered right into her ear now. "Sweetheart, it's a good thing for them."
She laughed and smiled and everyone stopped and turned around. She lowered her head turning really red now. She spoke low and through clenched teeth. "Horatio, you are so in trouble when I get you alone." They all continued again as Horatio and Calleigh stood behind.
He grinned and moaned low. "Mmm, I just love it when you threaten me."
They all walked into the elevator and Calleigh made sure to go to the back. Horatio gave her a grin and each agent a death glare.
Ray and Yelina were just happy this was all over now. They all got out of the elevator and went outside. They said goodbye and Yelina hugged and kissed Horatio on the cheek. She thanked Calleigh as Ray did. Ray moved over to Horatio and gave him a quick hug, patting him on the back. He whispered a low thank you near his ear again.
Agent Cole was waiting. "Ok, just like before, I'll call you when they reach their destination, and nice going once again, lieutenant Caine. By any chance did you hear from the chief yet?"
Horatio's brows rose up. "No, not yet."
He smiled, "Well you will be and deservingly so. I'll talk to you soon, take care. Ms. Duquesne." They all said good bye and left.
Horatio and Calleigh watched them drive away. They walked to the hummer and Horatio opened the door for her. She gave him a smile and got in. A moment later he climbed in and started the engine.
She smiled over to him. "Are you sure you're ok to drive?"
He slipped his sunglasses on and turned to her. He gave her a gorgeous smile and his brows arched up. "Always sweetheart, always."
She let her head drop back on the seat and laughed. "What was I thinking?" She said in a chuckled as he pulled away.
Horatio drove home and just pulled up, shutting the engine off as his phone rang. He looked over at Calleigh and opened it.
TBC...
So, let me know what you think now, it's almost over.