We would like to thank ALL our loyal readers for your support while we have been away. In the next few weeks, you will see our stories being reposted here for all of you to read along with several NEW stories we've written while we've been away.
We appreciate all the kind messages we've received for our readers...we didn't realize how many of you were reading our stories, lol. It has brought HUGE smiles to us and we hope you'll continue to stick with us as we re-post some old favorites and hopefully new favorites. Thanks again!
CaineSpeedle & Speedfanatic05
Now for the good stuff!
**WARNING: STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT AND LANGUAGE! You Are Warned**
"Suddenly a corner was turned, a blaze of light burst upon our sight, and we stood before one of the huge suburban temples of Intemperance–one of the palaces of the fiend, Gin."
From "The Man Of The Crowd" by Edgar Allan Poe
Watching as he got out the Hummer, the eyes behind the dark sunglasses squinted in the bright morning Miami sun. Sipping on the cup of coffee in hand, and then reaching for the phone, the call was placed. Noticing his fiery red hair, the pressed, expensive suit and the air of confidence in which surround him made this all the more meaningful. Waiting as it connected, a smile formed as he picked up, his voice coming smoothly now, like a fine wine.
Pressing the small red button on the device hooked to the cell phone, they spoke as they watched, "I hope you're having a good morning Lieutenant, never know when it could be your last."
Slowing his gait, Horatio took a look around and arched his brow, reigning in his startled tone. He'd been getting numerous amounts of phone calls that were one sided but this one was different. Someone actually wanted to reach out now.
Clearing his throat, he started back again, speaking smoothly, "I always have a good morning. However, it's made more interesting today because you finally decided to talk. What can I do for you?"
"You took something from me Lieutenant Horatio Caine…something very dear to me. For that, you must pay," the voice replied smoothly as they continued to watch from a distance. "Maybe I should take something dear to you. You're blonde girlfriend that you just got back comes to mind."
His heart seized as he stopped again, taking a cursory look around. Seeing nothing more than people milling about, he narrowed his brow as his blood ran cold, "That would not be wise, just ask the last person who attempted to take her away from me. Who are you?"
Laughing lightly, they sighed, "You'll know soon enough, Lieutenant. But I will give you this little hint…'I was never kinder to the old man than during the whole week before I killed him." With that, they pressed the button again and then closed the phone, ending the call and leaving the lieutenant to ponder.
The words ran through his head frantically and as he slipped the phone back into his pocket, he started for the lab. He'd heard those words before, but he couldn't be sure. Keeping his head down, he moved through the glass doors and passed the desk sergeant with a short nod, his intent on getting to his office.
Once in the elevator, he pulled his phone and then dialed her number, sure she could help him. He'd seen the volume of Edgar Allan Poe and knew that she was reading up on it. Listening to the phone ring, he stared at the walls of the elevator and sighed as she answered.
Tucking the fresh sheet in at the bottom of the bed, Calleigh hummed happily as she worked. The night had been filled with passion as had the morning, and even now, she was wishing she'd requested that he take the day. When her cell began to ring, she walked over to the nightstand, looked at the ID and seeing his number. Smiling brightly, she opened it and answered, "You've only been gone a half hour and already missing me?"
For a second, Horatio's expression lightened as he explained, "Sweetheart, the second I walk out the door, I miss you."
Smiling more, Calleigh turned and took a seat on the side of the bed, "Well, that's good to know. So, I take it you made it into work okay?"
"I made it okay, but I was wondering, Calleigh, if you could help me." Licking his lips, Horatio looked around and started, "You've know some about Edgar Allan Poe, right?"
Crinkling her brow, Calleigh licked her lips, "Uh, a little, not a lot, why? What's going on?" Not hearing a reply, Calleigh got up, "Horatio…what the hell is going on?"
Debating on whether to go any further, Horatio sighed and rubbed his eyes, "Cal, can you tell me if you've come across this quote, 'I was never kinder to the old man than during the whole week before I killed him'?"
Hearing it, Calleigh thought for a moment, letting it run around in her head. Moving out the room and to the living room, she went to where she'd hidden her book, "I think so, but I can't be sure. Why, Horatio?"
The elevator opened and he made his way through the lab to his office, taking the stairs quickly. Entering into his office, he closed the door and shrugged out of his jacket, lying it on the couch, "I got a disturbing phone call. Apparently, I've taken someone from someone and they are hell bent on making me pay. The voice recited that quote."
"What?" Calleigh asked as she pulled the book out. Getting a bad feeling, Calleigh looked around cautiously, "You…you don't think…I mean…he died…"
Hearing the change in her voice, he assured her calmly, "Sweetheart, Larken's six feet under. He's not coming back to harm you." Walking to the window leading into the trace lab, he placed his hand on his hip and shook his head, "I don't know, but it seems that this person could've been an associate of his. The Poe quote seems unlikely to be a random coincidence."
Finding the page she wanted, she began to scan it, "Well, he never mentioned anyone to me…except Evie. He never made a call unless it was to order food and he didn't meet with anyone."
Horatio closed his eyes and cursed the fact that Calleigh was involved in this and sighed, "This could all be harmless, Calleigh. I get threats almost daily, it's nothing new."
"Horatio…" she replied as she looked up from the book, "this is new. And it has to be related to Christopher. Do…do you guys still have a list of people he knew or worked with? Maybe any other family members or a sibling?"
"We still do, but he has no siblings, and no family. Calleigh, everyone that he's worked with has said that he was nice enough, but he was a loner. No one really had a strong relationship with him."
Looking back over the page, she sighed, "Well, someone did." Scanning the page and turning it, she crinkled her brow, "What about his students? Did anyone talk to them?"
"A handful, none of them spoke of a relationship that they've seen or heard." Running his hand through his hair, he exhaled heavily, "I'm sure this is nothing but an empty threat, Cal. Don't worry yourself over this any longer."
Finding the quote, Calleigh took it over to the couch, "Found it. It's from The Tell-Tell Heart. It was one of his short stories."
"Calleigh," he exasperated as he shook his head, "I don't want you to think another second of this. You're just now getting over your ordeal with Larken, I don't want this to consume you."
Marking the page, Calleigh closed the book back, setting it aside, "If you get anymore threats though…will you tell me?" Biting her lip, she sighed, "I…I just don't have a good feeling about this, Horatio."
"Please don't worry about it. I promise, I'll be careful, but don't put any more time or thought to this." Turning from his perch at the window, he took a seat at his desk and smiled, "I was thinking about tonight…how about we go out for dinner? I know this little out of the way place…"
Sitting back on the couch, Calleigh pulled her feet up and smiled, "You mean a date? Think you can get off early enough?"
"I'll sure try. Be ready by seven, I'll swing by the hotel and take a quick shower." Glad to have gotten her mind off of the phone call, he smiled more, "We can have a nice…intimate dinner and just spend time with each other. How does that sound?"
"I love the sound of that actually. Hey, I meant to ask you, when is your next day off?" she asked as she looked at the book and ran her hand over it.
"Um…tomorrow, if I'm not mistaken. Why?"
Smirking, Calleigh raised a brow, "Oh, just wondering. Did you want to stay here again tonight…or me with you at the hotel?"
"Your place sounds fine." Arching a brow, he stopped what he was doing and frowned, "Ms. Duquesne, are you conspiring?"
Chuckling some, Calleigh got up, heading for her room, "Me? Never. I just wanted to make sure. I've got to run to the store today, so I thought I'd pick up some wine and a few things for dinner tomorrow then."
"A few things huh?" Horatio responded, remembering her request. He chuckled and shook his head, "Keep in mind that I will be out in the public after my day off. No bruises."
"There won't be…well, none that anyone will be able to see unless you take your clothes off," she smiled more as she went into her room.
His grin widened and he chuckled, scratching his brow, "Well, then consider me thoroughly warned. You have me anxious now, how am I ever going to get through the day?"
Going in, Calleigh headed for her closet, "Well, like I said, I have some shopping to do, so I'll be out for awhile. How about you call me if you're free for lunch and I can bring something and we can eat in your office."
"As soon as I know, you will, sweetheart. I'm looking forward to it." Taking a quick glance at the picture of the team on his desk, he smiled at her bright smile and sighed lightly, his heart filling with warmth, "I love you, Calleigh."
Reaching for a shirt, Calleigh stopped and smiled more, "I love you too, Handsome. Can uh…can you do me a favor and tell everyone hello for me."
"Sure," he answered easily. Sitting back, he smiled, "I'm sure you'll be attacked as soon as you hit the door. They all miss you very much, Cal."
"Yeah, well, I'm not ready to face them just yet…so, just don't tell them I'll be down there, okay?" she asked softly as she got her shirt and went in search of some Capri's.
"I won't, but sweetheart, how are you going to come in without being seen?"
"I have my ways," she replied as she carried her clothes out to the bed. "Just make sure everyone is busy."
"I'll do what I can," Horatio responded as he heard a knock at his door. Looking to it, he sighed, "Well, I've got to go, Calleigh. I'll call you when I can."
"Okay, Handsome…be careful please. No playing the hero, okay?" she replied as she began to take her bed clothes off.
"Okay, no playing the hero, I promise." Standing, he smiled lightly, "I love you."
"I love you too. Bye, Handsome," she said as she stopped what she was doing.
The knock on the door continued, but Horatio centered on Calleigh, hearing the slight hesitation in her voice, "Cal…is everything okay?"
A faint smile surfaces and she shrugged, "Yeah, I'm fine. Get to work now before the lab doesn't know what to do with themselves."
Horatio laughed and then crossed the room, pausing for a second at the door. "I'll talk to you later, Calleigh."
"Alright. Bye…" she said and then hung up when he did.
Slipping the phone back into his pocket, he opened the door slowly to reveal Eric standing behind it. Steeling himself, Horatio remained in complete control, sighing, "What can I do for you, Eric?"
"You and I need to talk," Eric replied, keeping his temper in check for the moment. When Horatio stepped aside, he walked in and waited for Horatio to close the door.
Closing the door, Horatio arched a brow, "I agree. Come in, take a seat." Going around to his desk, he sat down and leaned forward, resting his arms there. "What can I do for you, Eric?"
Sitting down, Eric looked over at his brother in law, pursing his lips, "You can stop seeing Calleigh is what you can do. You knew her and I were seeing each other."
Horatio chuckled and shook his head, "I'm sorry, Eric, but that's just not going to happen. I love Calleigh, I'm not going to abandon her." Sitting up, he glared at the younger man, "You left her without a word as to why, and you didn't write or call. She's free to go on with her life."
"You stole her, just like you stole Mari…and we all know what happened there. Who else are you going to put into an early grave?" Eric bite back, his temper rising.
"I didn't steal Mari," Horatio responded, his temper flaring. The thought of his late wife brought back a resurgence of pain and his voice deepened, "Don't do this, Eric. Don't say something you're going to regret."
"I've been regretting it since the day you got her killed," Eric said as he stood up, his chair pushing back. Pointing at him, Eric glared, "I will have Calleigh back…and there isn't anything you can do to stop me."
"You're right, Eric, I can't stop you. But she can. Don't push this, Eric." Horatio remained still as so not to provoke him even more and remarked calmly, "Is that all?"
"I will get her back, you'll see," Eric vowed as he headed for the door. Looking back at him, Eric shook his head, "This is far from over, Horatio."
"I agree, Eric. It is far from over, but you're going to find that I don't intend on losing her."
"We'll see about that," Eric said as he opened the door and slammed it close behind him before heading back down the stairs. Clenching his jaw, he decided where his next stop would be, hoping that she'd at least hear him out and reconsider.
Standing still for a second, he quickly filled his hand with his phone and dialed her number. He hoped that she wouldn't have gone for a shower just yet, the need to warn her of what was coming coursing through him like wildfire. When the phone kept ringing, he sighed heavily and moved for his jacket and then the door. He had to get to her to stop what was coming.
The drive to her place had given him time to calm and think out what he wanted to say. After his confrontation with Horatio, Eric's temper had exploded and while he knew his next step, he also knew that he couldn't face her while he still had the heat of the tense meeting between him and the red head still running fresh through his veins. Gripping the wheel, he cringed at the thought of his former brother in law in the heat of passion with her, his anger seemingly searing itself upon his very being. He knew how it felt to be loved by Calleigh, her touch, the warmth that exuded from the smile that could only be hers and the truth of her bejeweled gaze. Just the glancing thought of her eyes, hazed with passion quelled his fury and gave his purpose more intent.
As he pulled to a stop in front of her house, he paused momentarily to assess the situation as it was and to solidify his plan. He needed to talk to her, alone and without the potential of being interrupted. If he knew H as well as he did, he knew that the older CSI was on his way now to intercept him and ruin everything. That thought alone got him moving and he got out of the car and crossed the street quickly, glancing around. Once he got to her door, he reached for his keys, but then remembered that she had taken it back. Remembering the hideaway key, he bent to retrieve it only to find it gone. Cursing under his breath, Eric shook his head and pressed the doorbell, hoping she would be the least bit receptive to what he had to say.
Pulling on the Capri's she'd picked out, Calleigh then reached back for the towel, rubbing her hair with it and getting it as dry as she could as she walked back to the bathroom. After speaking with Horatio earlier, she'd jumped into the shower, freshening up before starting her day. Placing the towel into the hamper, Calleigh moved over in front of the mirror and picked up her brush. Running it through the short strands, the doorbell rang and she looked towards the hallway.
Leaving out the bathroom, Calleigh slowly headed for the door, wondering exactly who was at her door. Reaching it and looking out, she sighed heavily when she saw Eric through the pep hole. Opening the door, she placed herself in the gap, blocking him from entering, "What do you want, Eric?"
"A sliver of your time to explain my actions," Eric said as he took in her form. Fresh from a shower was always one of his favorite looks on her. Fighting a smirk, he shrugged, "I figured I could take you for a cup of coffee and we could talk maybe."
"Eric, we've got nothing to talk about. I'm with Horatio now, end of story," Calleigh replied as she sifted her weight some.
Eric ran a hand through his hair and sighed, "You're not going to give me a chance to explain myself? All I want to do is talk with you, Calleigh." He gave her a light smile and shook his head, "An hour tops, and then I'll leave you alone."
"Eric…I have plans already. Had you'd call or even written me, then maybe thing's would have been different. But, I've been in love with Horatio for years…I just never could admit it," Calleigh said as she looked up at him. "I'm sorry, Eric."
"I get this," Eric responded as he nodded, pursing his lips together, "I see exactly what this is. You couldn't wait for me to explain things before you jumped on the next warm body. Were you that desperate that you couldn't wait for me?"
"Excuse me?" Calleigh asked, her tone rising. "Did you not hear a word of what I just said?"
"I heard you loud and clear, you've loved Horatio for all these years," Eric replied, his tone biting. He sneered as he nodded, "So in love that you strung along two boyfriends, one of which killed himself over you. Why couldn't you have just made your mind up, Cal? Was it too much of a decision?"
"I couldn't admit it to myself, Eric! And when I could…Horatio was in love with your sister and I wasn't about to come between them," Calleigh yelled at him as she glared. Seeing the hummer pull up, she looked back at him, jaw clenching, "The best thing for you to do, Eric, is to just move on."
"You could've saved my sister from …from him. He got her killed, Cal. Because she was his wife, she had a target on her back that was never hers." Taking a step forward, his voice got louder, "You could've done something to stop him!"
Putting his hand on his shoulder, Horatio gripped it and then pulled slightly, his voice calm despite the overwhelming desire to hit Eric. "This is unwise, Eric. She's clear about what she wants…move on."
Glaring at the man, Calleigh took a step forward, "Don't you dare go blaming anyone for her death besides Riaz, Eric. Your sister loved Horatio whether you liked it or not and would have still married him. It was her choice and hers alone."
Eric shrugged away from Horatio and shook his head, "Right, she was head over heels for him, I remember. She was dying, Calleigh… he was offering her the world and she didn't know…she didn't know he wasn't going to be able to give it to her."
"Why can't you be happy for her Eric? Why is that so hard for you? She was happy finally…she was happy with Horatio!" Running a hand through her hair, she shook her head, "Why the hell am I even arguing with you about this? Go home, Eric and grow up!"
"She was misinformed," Eric gritted. He felt Horatio's arm on his and he flung it off, tempted to strike his former brother in law. Instead, he turned and stalked away, pausing only slightly to look back at her and then shaking his head.
Watching Eric as he left, Horatio pulled Calleigh into his arms and held her tightly, "Are you okay, Calleigh?"
Closing her eyes, her body trembled with anger and frustration. Placing her forehead against his chest, she breathed out, "Why can't he listen? I told him last night it was over between me and him."
Holding her close, he sighed heavily, "I don't know, Calleigh, but he's gone now." Rubbing her back in calming circles, he continued, "Are you going to be okay, Cal? Do you want me to stay?"
Shaking her head, she lifted it, looking up at him, "No, I'll be fine. Besides, I'm sure the lab needs you more. I'm going shopping anyways…it wouldn't do any good staying."
"Okay," he replied as he let her go. Letting a smile come, he smiled, "So, are we still on for lunch?"
"Yes…" she replied as she let a small smile form. Moving back to him, she gave him a soft kiss and whispered, "Thank you, Handsome."
Nodding slowly, Horatio whispered, "You're welcome. I'll give you a call, okay?"
"Alright." Giving him another kiss, her hands rested on his sides and she smiled, "I can't wait for tonight."
Horatio chuckled and held her at the waist as he stared at her, " Neither can I." Arching a brow, he chuckled softly as he reached up to caress her cheek, "I wonder what you have in store for me."
Smiling up at him, Calleigh smirked, "You'll have to wait 'til after we get back from dinner to find out…but, I'm sure you'll love it."
"I'm sure I will." Reluctant to leave he sighed, "Any more problems don't hesitate to call me." Finally taking a step back he released her completely and started towards the abstractly parked Hummer and smirked, giving her a slight wave, "I'll call you for lunch. Bye, Calleigh."
Smiling and waving back to him, she called out, "Bye, Handsome." Watching as he got in and then started the hummer, Calleigh gave him one last wave and then headed back for the house. Getting to the door, she turned, watching him leave out and took in a deep breath, smiling. For so long she'd never like anyone trying to come to her rescue when she was faced with a problem, but, with Horatio, it was different. Something about him called to her and she only hoped it would only get better.
Inside the Hummer, Horatio glanced back at the rear view mirror, a warmth blooming inside of him. He knew how ridiculously stubborn Calleigh could be, it was one of her finer attributes, but he was glad that she turned to him for protection and comfort. It was what he was there for, and it was what he would do until the last breath left his body.
Lost in thought, he barely registered his phone ringing and reached into his jacket pocket to retrieve it. Depressing the button, he activated the speaker phone and answered crisply, "Caine."
"Aw, now wasn't that sweet of you, going to her rescue," the voice said as they watched the house from a little bit down the road. "Too bad you won't be able to do that much longer…but, I'm sure the other man will appreciate you being taken out of the equation."
Gripping the wheel as he drove, Horatio spoke through clenched teeth, "Why don't you reveal yourself to me? Why play these games, if it's me you want, come after me."
"Oh, I am after you, Horatio Caine. And as for games, I thought you liked puzzles," the voice replied as blue eyes followed Calleigh back inside. "You might think you can catch me, but, you're oh so wrong about that."
"I always catch what I want," Horatio vowed. Glancing at his watch, he finished, "It's just a matter of time before I catch you."
Laughing, they put the car into drive and began to pull off, "Think what you want, Horatio…just remember this, 'Keeping these impressions in view, I was cautious in what I said before the young lady; for I could not be sure that she was sane; and, in fact, there was a certain restless brilliancy about her eyes which half led me to imagine she was not.'"
"Did Christopher Larken teach you Poe? Is that where you got the idea from?" Hoping the mention of Larken's name would get a reaction, he pressed on, "Larken was fond of Poe wasn't he?"
Sensing the trap, a smirk formed and a brow raised, "Wouldn't you like to know? Best keep a close eye on your girl, Horatio…Maybe I can give her a lesson or two." Leaving him with that thought, the called ended and the blue eyes turned cold at the thought of the professor.
Stopping on the breaks quickly, Horatio looked to his phone only to see that the number was unlisted. Dialing furiously, he turned the Hummer around and waited for him to answer. Speeding down the street he just came from, he heard the voice mail start and growled, his irritation growing.
"Speed, when you get this, give me a call back. We have a problem." Flipping the phone down, he tossed it in the seat and swung into her driveway, barely allowing the Hummer to come to a complete stop before jumping out. Arriving at her door, he knocked with force and called out to her, his heart thumping wildly in his chest. He couldn't leave her out here alone, not while there was a threat out against her. "Calleigh! C'mon, open up!"
Coming back to the door with her purse and keys in hand, Calleigh furrowed her brow at the banging and yelling going on. Opening it, she stepped back as Horatio bound through, "Horatio, what the hell is going on?"
"Whatever you have planned for the day, scrap it. You're coming with me to the office. I can't leave you out here without protection," Horatio said as he took her arm. Closing the door after her, he glanced around as he ushered her to the Hummer. He looked to her to see her expression and sighed, "I'll explain when we get there."
Hearing the concern in his voice, Calleigh followed him to the hummer and got in when he opened the door. Placing a hand on his arm, she looked into his eyes, "This is about Larken isn't it?"
Not wanting to worry her, he shook his head as he held the door open, "No, it's about someone who knew Larken. We'll talk about it at the lab, I just want to get you there." Closing the door, he hurried around to the driver's side and slid in. Starting the vehicle, he glanced to Calleigh and reached for her hand, seeing the anxious expression on her face, "Cal…things are going to be alright."
Squeezing his hand back, Calleigh nodded and took in a deep breath. When he pulled out and started towards the lab, Calleigh's eyes roamed the area as he drove. Finally glancing over to him, she spoke, "You got another call didn't you?"
"Yes," he answered reluctantly. He kept his eyes steady on the road ahead of him and sighed heavily, "This time, they threatened your life. I don't take that threat lightly."
Looking down, her brow crinkled and she closed her eyes, "I have to go back into hiding?"
Holding her hand tightly, he shook his head, looking briefly to her, "Just for a little while, until we find this person."
"Great…" she sighed and turned her head, looking out the window. Staring out, she couldn't believe this was happening again, only this time, contact had been made verbally. Shaking her head, she looked back at him, "I'm not leaving Miami, Horatio…so don't even ask."
"Calleigh, be reasonable. This person's threatened you. There's no telling where they could be." Turning the corner, he let her hand go and steered, the lab coming into view. Silence fell upon them and he sighed, shaking his head ruefully. He didn't want her to leave either, but he had virtually no choice. Finally coming to rest in the parking lot, he put the Hummer in park and turned to her fully, "I can't risk your life, Calleigh. If there was another way, I'd take it."
"But who's to say this isn't some joke someone is pulling? For all we know right now, it's only talk, that's it…unless…unless you've gotten something and aren't telling me." Looking at him, she raised a brow, "Have you been getting gifts?"
"No, but I don't think I will. This person is more interested in destroying me." Reaching for her cheek, he smirked slightly, "They apparently had something for the late professor and I somehow took that away from them."
"Does the rest of the team know?" Calleigh asked as she searched his eyes.
"No one knows, Calleigh, except you. It didn't strike me as important until they threatened you." Horatio caressed her cheek and shook his head, "Now, it's the number one priority."
"I'm sure they're gonna love this," Calleigh grossed and looked down. Taking a deep breath and releasing it, she looked back at him, "I don't want to go through this again, Horatio."
"I won't let you, we'll figure this out." Releasing her, he got out and went to the passenger side, ushering her out of the Hummer. Bringing her close to him, he embraced her and whispered, "You're going to be safe Calleigh, if it's the last thing I do."
Coming out the front doors of the lab, Jesse squinted in the sunlight, seeing Horatio with Calleigh in his arms. Looking down and then back at them, he heard over towards them, knowing for sure, she was now with Horatio. Slowing his walk as he neared he cleared his throat and smiled, "Well this is a sight we don't see that often."
Releasing Calleigh from his arms, he looked to Jesse and smiled lightly, "Ah…Jesse. Is there something that I can help you with?"
Nodding to Calleigh and giving her a smile, Jesse looked back at his boss, "No, I was just heading out to the other lab to pick up some results we'd sent over to them. They wouldn't be able to get them to us until later this afternoon and we kinda need them now to close a case."
Horatio nodded and then gestured to Calleigh to start walking, "Alright, well, I'll be in my office if you need anything."
"Alright." Looking to Calleigh he smiled, "Nice seeing you back here, Calleigh."
"Thanks, Jesse," Calleigh replied softly and moved a short strand of hair behind her ear. Moving with Horatio, they left the dark haired detective and Calleigh whispered, "I have a feeling once everyone knows I'm here they'll be wanting to see me."
"I'll make sure that won't happen. Everyone will be busy," Horatio responded as the sound of a bike caught his attention. Turning, he saw Tim dismount his bike and looked to Calleigh, "I'll be right back."
Meeting Horatio halfway, Tim looked to Calleigh and sighed heavily, "How's she doing, H?"
"She's fine, but we've got a problem, Speed. You got a minute?" Horatio asked as he looked back over towards Calleigh. "I need to talk to you in my office."
"Lead the way, H." Walking with Horatio, he kept his eyes on Calleigh and asked, "What exactly is going on? She looks petrified."
Walking swiftly, Horatio whispered, "Let's just say Larken has a friend that isn't happy." Coming to Calleigh, Horatio held his hand out to her, taking it into his and brought her close to him, "Speed's gonna come with us, sweetheart."
Looking at Tim, Calleigh nodded, "Okay."
Tim followed them into the lab and watched them both carefully, noticing Calleigh's demeanor. The closer they got to the doors of the lab, the more uncomfortable she seemed to get. Stopping them both, Tim asked, "Don't you think she would be better off going through another entrance, H? She doesn't look as if she wants to answer any questions that may come from her appearance."
Stopping and looking at Calleigh, he nodded, "Yeah. Why don't you and Speed use the rear entrance and just go straight to my office. I should be there by the time you get up there."
Nodding, Calleigh took in a deep breath, "I think that'd be better." Looking into his blue eyes, she whispered, "I'll be fine. See you in a minute."
"Alright." Looking at Speed, Horatio raised a brow, "Make sure no one approaches her, especially anyone you don't know."
"You have nothing to worry about, H." Tim looked to Calleigh and smirked, "She's in good hands."
"Good." Turning to Calleigh more, Horatio gave her a soft smile and then a kiss, whispering, "Love you, see you inside, sweetheart."
"Love you…" Calleigh whispered back and then watched him head inside. Looking at Tim, she gave him a small smile, "Ready?"
Tim nodded and gestured towards the side door, smiling lightly, "After you." Walking with her, he glanced to her and then to their intended destination and cleared his throat slightly. The show of emotion between her and Horatio had hit him hard, but he reigned in his self control, knowing he would be better served as a friend at this point. "What's going on, Calleigh? I got this frantic message from H about a problem."
Looking around some, Calleigh shook her head slightly and sighed, "Seems Horatio's been getting calls from…someone. This morning, he had me look up a quote…then told me to forget about it. Then after he left when Eric caused some problems, he came back frantic…saying he'd gotten a threat on my life and wanted me here at the lab."
Stopping their forward motion, Tim narrowed his brow, "Wait, Eric's back in town? When did he get here?"
"I don't know, but if you see him, please talk to him. He's in an uproar 'cause I'm with Horatio now," Calleigh said, her brow raising. "He came by last night and used his key to get in…and was damn lucky Horatio and I didn't shoot him. Then this morning he came back and we had words again."
Tim shook his head and frowned, "I never thought Delko would be that dense, but I've been wrong before. There's not much I can say to him at this point, but I will talk to him." Nudging her forward again, he asked, "You took your hideaway key up, didn't you?"
"Yeah, last night after he left." Walking with him, she waited as he opened the door and then entered into the corridor, "I think he's blaming both me and Horatio now for Marisol's death. He said I could have stopped Horatio from marrying her and getting her killed."
"How could you have done that? Didn't Marisol love Horatio? The last time I checked, Marisol was a grown woman when she said I do." Anger welled up and groaned lightly, "I wish that Delko would take responsibility for his emotions. His sister loved Horatio, right? There was nothing anyone could do to stop it."
Blowing out a tuff of air, Calleigh looked up at him, "Try telling him that. I said almost the same thing and he still thinks he's right. Anyway, I told him to grow up and move on."
"Well good. Let's hope that he does." Coming to a freight elevator, Tim depressed the button and waited, looking up at the numbers ticking down and then over to Calleigh. He took in her anxious movements and reached for her hand, squeezing it lightly before letting it go, "H has got this under control, Cal. He's not going to let anything happen to you."
"I know…but like I told him, I don't want to have to go back into hiding again. I'm just starting to get my life back together, I don't need this now," she replied softly. "None of us need this."
"You're right about that, Calleigh, but he's thinking about your safety. I swear, if something ever happened to you, I think he'd lose it." The elevator finally arrived and he offered her entrance first, "I have an idea, but neither you nor Horatio is probably going to like it."
Going in and turning back to him, Calleigh raised a brow, "I'm not leaving Miami, Tim. I've already told Horatio that and I mean it. I'm not leaving again."
"You're always one to jump too quickly, Cal. I was talking about you coming to stay with me. With them occupied with Horatio, they wouldn't think to trail me. You can come, and to lessen the potential of getting caught, we'd stay inside."
Thinking about it for a moment, Calleigh shook her head, "I don't know, Tim. I don't want to endanger Emma again…and I would be if I did stay with you. That's something I just can't do."
"I'm not leaving Emma, so there's no danger. I can protect you, Calleigh and you wouldn't have to leave Miami. We'll hole up and watch movies all day and you and Emma can trade hair secrets." Laughing, he nudged her slightly and shook his head, "You know you want to trade hair secrets with Emma. Come on, Cal. I can keep you out of sight."
Smiling some, Calleigh looked back up at him, "You know Horatio isn't gonna be to keen on this idea. I mean, staying with you that is being there already been some issues already."
"As true as that is, Cal. I think he'll see logic. He wants you safe, he can stow you away at my place. It's either that or run the risk of getting caught in some hotel or even worst…Away from Miami."
"Don't remind me of that," she groused as the door slide open. Leaving out the elevator, they walked through the empty corridor, going the back way to Horatio office. "Tim, do you know if any of Christopher's student's was looked into?"
"I don't know for sure, I think we were mainly focused on him. Nothing stood out," Tim answered back as they walked. "You think it could've been a student of his?"
Shrugging some, the came to the hall leading to Horatio's office, "I don't know, but it wouldn't hurt looking into it. If they are quoting Poe to Horatio…then there has to have been a personal connection somewhere I would think."
"You're right, I think there is a connection, but Cal, he had hundreds of students. That's going to be a long list to look at." Coming to his door, he paused and then looked to her, "What if I look into some for you? I don't know what the lab is doing about this, but I can do some snooping."
"Horatio said this was top priority now…so he'll probably have the team involved…which means he'll need you're help also." Knocking on the door, she smiled as it opened, their eyes meeting. Going in with Tim, Calleigh went over, setting her purse onto the small couch and turned back to them, "Okay, Horatio. I want to know everything."
Horatio glanced towards Tim and then to Calleigh, leaning against his desk. Crossing his arms about his chest, he sighed, "I've been getting phone calls, from an unknown source, quoting Edgar Allan Poe. At first, it was just them lamenting the fact that I took Larken from them, but this last phone call, they threatened Calleigh. Now before, I didn't give much weight, but now that they've drawn Calleigh into it, I think it warrants a look after."
"I think you should start with his students. Especially one's that might have been in his classes for awhile…they would've had the longest to development a relationship of some sorts with him," Calleigh said and then took a seat. "I know he had some third year students that have been there since they were freshmen at the college."
Horatio exchanged glances with Tim and then focused on Calleigh more. Arching his brow, he observed her demeanor and sighed heavily, moving towards her. Grabbing her gently about her arms, Horatio bowed his head and shook it minutely before tilting it to look at Calleigh, "I don't want you to worry, Calleigh. This isn't going to get far, we're going to look at everything." Tilting her chin upward, he caught her eyes and felt his heart plummet at the slight slivers of fear that he saw within them, "I won't let anything happen to you, Cal."
Shifting his weight, Tim looked away and cleared his throat, chuckling some, "I don't think she's as worried about herself than she is about you, H. Besides, I have a plan to keep her safe without her leaving Miami."
"Okay," Horatio said as he kept her gaze, "I'm listening, Speed."
"Well, in a nutshell," Tim paused, "she can come and stay with me and Emma until this is done."
Horatio's eyes slid shut and he began to shake his head in protest, "Tim, as much as I know you want to help- I don't want to involve Emma in any of this. It's too dangerous."
"I told him the same," Calleigh said softly as she watched Horatio. "We saw what happened the last time, I don't want to risk her getting hurt."
"And just like I told you, Calleigh, I'm not going anywhere. I'll be able to protect you and Emma, so there's no problem." Running his hand through his hair, he exasperated almost irritably, "Look, so far, this maniac doesn't have a clue about me, right? We get Calleigh to my place, she'll be safe. Besides, the main focus of this lunatic is you, Horatio, not Calleigh."
Searching his eyes, Calleigh tilted her head slightly, "Tim's right about that…whoever it is doesn't know." Taking a deep breath, Calleigh reached to him, stroking his cheek, "I'll be close to you, you could serve a fake warrant or something to see me."
Relishing her touch, Horatio sighed and fought to control his emotions. He needed to know for sure that she was safe, protected, and the only way he could be sure was to take on that role himself. However, Tim was right; the main focus in this game of obsession was him, by keeping Calleigh close, he was putting her directly in the line of fire.
Taking her hand into his, he held it and then squeezed it, his voice small, "I don't know what I would do, Calleigh, if you were hurt." Pausing, he opened his eyes and looked to her, gazing into her alluring green eyes and sighed heavily, "You both have a point, if you stick around me, you're directly in the line of fire."
"Tim, if we do this, can you carry a weapon?" Calleigh asked, knowing his dislike of firearms.
Centering on her, he nodded with determination, "I'll do it for you, Calleigh. We'll have to keep them out of sight- Emma doesn't like them." He looked to Horatio and smiled widely, "H, she's in good hands."
Horatio broke his gaze with Calleigh and lifted his eyes to Tim, giving him a small smile, "If I didn't think so, this idea wouldn't fly."
"In the meantime, what can we do to help…and don't you dare tell me nothing," Calleigh said with a raise of her brow. "I'm not sitting back and twiddling my thumbs again."
"We can start by delving into Larken's class rosters. He's been at that institution for years, there's hundreds of students that we have to take in consideration." Horatio moved from in front of Calleigh and went to his desk, reaching for his phone, "There's not much we can do about the calls until one comes in. I can get A/V to trace the call when another comes in."
Getting up, Calleigh walked over, standing next to Tim, "If you can get a list for us, Tim and I could go through them here. See what we can find out at least."
"I'll go and get the lists, you two hang out up here. I'll try to keep prying eyes out of here for the day," Horatio said as he glanced to Calleigh. He could see the apprehension but also a sense of happiness at having something to do smoldering in her eyes. Continuing, he then looked to Tim, "Speed, if she gets hungry, you'll have to go out for her."
"No problem. But we have a bigger problem, what's going to happen when she has to use the bathroom?"
Raising a brow, Calleigh sighed, "Then I'll use the back elevator and slip down to firearms…hardly anyone's down there anyways," she stated as she looked back and forth between them. "I can sneak in and out better down there."
"Sounds like a good idea. Speed, could you accompany her just in case?"
"I don't see why not, but I hardly think she'll run into any problems. It's usually a ghost town down there." Tim looked to Calleigh and smirked, "You'll be fine, that is if you don't stop to check in on your babies."
"Don't temp me," she said as she crossed her arms over her chest. "Okay, so, what are you going to be doing while we're going over the list?"
"I will go about business as usual. I'm going out to the university to talk to the faculty supervisor, hopefully they will give me some insight on what may be going on." Horatio moved towards the door and glanced back, "I won't be out very long, but if you find anything, give me a call on the cell." Nodding to Tim, he smirked, "Keep the blinds closed and the door locked, I'll have my keys."
"No problem, H. I'll take care of it." Tim arched a brow at Calleigh, "I hope you brought your reading eyes."
"I do." Looking over at Horatio Calleigh walked towards him, "While you're getting the list for us, could you get me a drink also? Anything is fine."
"I'll bring it right up. Speed, you need anything?"
"Nah, I'm fine. Just get those names to us and we'll get started." Tim snickered and shed his jacket, "We need to get as much done as possible, I'll have to pick up Emma from Alexx's place in about three hours."
"That'll give us a good start at least," Calleigh replied as she stopped next to Horatio. Looking up at him, she took his hand, "Thank you."
Horatio squeezed her hand and smiled, "You're welcome. Now...I have to get to work. You guys let me know if you need something else."
"We will." Letting him go, she watched as he left out the office and locked the door behind him. Turning back, she walked over towards the couch, "Well, I guess our dinner for tonight is out now."
Tim smirked and asked, "You guys had a date?"
"Had is the main word," Calleigh sighed as she took a seat and sat back. "He was going to take me out to dinner. It would have been out first since…since I've been back. Horatio had tomorrow off so we were gonna enjoy the night."
"Well, maybe you still can. All it takes is a little maneuvering." Taking in her expression, he held out his hands, "Go with me on this, Cal. When I go to pick up Emma, I can cook you guys up something real quick and give H a call. When he comes, I can take the Hummer and take his room for the night. You'll just have to contain your wild tendencies to the guest room."
"Nothing 'wild' was going to be happening, Tim," Calleigh replied, trying to play it off. "It was just gonna be dinner and maybe watching a movie when we got back."
"A movie? Yeah…right. You can't play that innocent game with me, Cal. I know exactly what kind of night he had in store for you." Snickering, he shook his head, "The offer stands, you can have dinner and the place to yourself, and technically, because it's not in your house or his hotel room, it's a date."
"He'll probably be working late now, Tim…but thanks for the offer," Calleigh said softly as she looked around the office. Shaking her head, she sighed, "Why does this shit keep happening to us?"
"I don't know, but you should have a more positive outlook on life. Let me handle this, Calleigh." Hearing the door, he looked up to see Horatio coming through with a box and something to drink for Calleigh. Coming to Horatio's side, he offered to take the box, "Hey, H, if I told you to bring it in for a dinner, you'd make time for that, wouldn't you?"
Glancing in between the two of them, Horatio sighed, "Alright, what have you two been cooking up in here?"
"Nothing," Calleigh replied as she sat up some and took the offered soda from him. Giving Tim a glare, Calleigh looked back up at Horatio, "It was nothing, to worry about."
"She told me that you were going to take her out on a date, I merely offered to make it happen. She seems to think that it's not going to work out. I keep telling her that if you know ahead of time, you'll make time for it. Am I right, H?"
Raising a brow, Calleigh looked over at Tim before looking back up at Horatio as she opened her soda, "It's no big deal, we can do it another night. Besides, I'm sure you'll be working this case, right?"
"I'll have to stop at some point, Cal. If he's offering to help, I don't see any reason why we couldn't take him up on it." Horatio turned to Tim and asked, "What time, Speed?"
"I'm going to say about seven thirty. It shouldn't take me long to whip up something, and when I'm done cooking, I'll take the Hummer and your hotel room." Tim smiled and gestured to Calleigh, "You see, Calleigh, things will work out."
Taking a drink, Calleigh nodded and then stood up, "Okay. Well, I guess we still have a date then." Giving Horatio a small smile, she shrugged, "Can you at least run by my place and bring a few movies?"
"Sure, did you want anything else while I'm there?" Horatio brought her closer and whispered, "Anything special?"
"Some clothes would be very nice, and…undergarments," she whispered back as she looked up into his eyes and smirked. "Top right drawer on my dresser."
"Top right drawer, gotcha." Leaning into her more, he kissed her gently, "I'll bring your items with me." Parting from her, he smiled, "I've gotta get to work, call me with updates."
"I will," she replied with a smile. Watching him leave out again and lock the door behind him, Calleigh went over to the desk where Tim had the now open and pulling out the files. Setting her drink down, she took some from him, determined to find out who was trying to take the man she loved from her.