Author's notes: Thank you to everyone for your reviews and support. I've been pleasantly surprised by the reaction this crime fic. We are getting near the end. Enjoy this chapter (hopefully).
True to Broadman's word the bomb's deactivated quickly and Jane and Lisbon move from behind the couch.
"Take these off now Jane."
"I meant what I said, they can't open."
"You mean after everything I've already been through I have to put up with an electric saw inches away from my veins."
Jane shrugs and has the decency to look guilty.
"Sorry I couldn't see any other way."
Broadman re-enters the room with said electric saw in his hand.
"Who's first?"
"Lisbon points to Jane.
"Him, and I'll decide whether I will stay still or not."
Broadman smirks.
"Okay, put your hands on the table and keep still."
He looks meaningfully at Lisbon.
"I would appreciate it. It's been a long day and it would be messy."
When they're free, there are thank you's all around.
"Now hopefully I won't see you two again.""
"That's a bit harsh Jonathan, She's not always this grumpy."
Broadman tries to suppress a smile.
"Forensics are checking every inch of the bomb for fingerprints. It's hard to build something like that and remember to wear gloves for every part of the construction. They usually slip up when they're buying the parts. They will call you with the results. I advice the two of you to get some rest, you've had a very busy day - especially you Patrick, I'm not liking the sound of your breathing."
Jane rolls his eyes.
"Is everyone a doctor? I'm fine."
But even Jane knows he's not convincing. Despite efforts to try to cover up the rattling that has slowly developed, it's begun to sound like there's a snake in the room.
They shake hands and as Broadman leaves, Rigsby, Cho and Van Pelt take his place.
"Good to see you boss."
Lisbon is grateful for Cho's restraint. Jane sees this and spreads out his arms.
"We've survived two bombs, actually I've survived six bombs and a shooting and that's the best you can do. It's good to see you guys."
He takes Van Pelt in to his arms and gives her a hug. Van Pelt hugs him back, having wanted to do this in the first place but the presence of the men stopped her. He then moves on to Rigsby, who's taken aback but gives him the manly pats on the back. Cho has his arms folded in front of him and doesn't move as Jane approaches. Jane stops and holds up his hands.
"Okay, nothing from Cho."
"Now you've had your fun Jane, it's time to lay down."
Lisbon has the nebuliser in her hand. Jane rolls his eyes, but more out of habit of enjoying being a nusance. His chest, is actually, feeling very tight and relief will be welcome.
"Security's been tightened boss. No-one will be to get in here."
"That's good to hear, but nothing is infallible so let's get this case wrapped up as quickly as possible. Once I have Jane settled I'll call the prison and have Volker put in to isolation so he can't communicate with anyone. Then let's rest up and hopefully forensics will have something for us by morning."
Jane gets an idea.
"I think we should visit Volker."
"We did that already and all he did was gloat."
"But that was when he thought he had the upper hand. I think he should get word of our demise, and then it will be our turn to have the advantage. You know how much he hates to lose. It rattles him. I think we should get there as quickly as possible."
"You're not in a fit state to go anywhere Jane."
"I just need a few minutes with that thing and I'll be as right as rain. Let him think that Cho and Van Pelt are coming to visit. It will add credence to the success of his operation."
Cho remembers the last visit and the smugness of Volker.
"I think it's a good idea boss, if anyone can irritate someone, it's Jane."
Lisbon likes the idea of wiping the smile off of Volker's face.
"Okay it'll take a few hours to set it up, so Jane, on my couch and don't get up until it's time to go. It'll have to be the small bomb as the building still intact. I'll go see Bertram and the public relations officer, I always forget her name."
"What do you want me for Agent?"
Lisbon turns to find Bertram in the doorway.
Bertram okayed the plan and Jane's laying on Lisbon's couch, in semi-darkness. Lisbon has taken his couch in the bullpen. The meeting's set up for six in the morning, with Bertram's aid they received the Prison Governor's co-operation.. With their demise being reported on the 11 O'clock news, Jane pointed out that they couldn't take a regular flight, so Bertram pulled some strings and they have a flight on a private plane at four. Her mind is buzzing with the events of the day and with anticipation of her meeting with Volker. Hopefully they will have a lead on his accomplices before they take off. She takes deep breaths in an effort to relax her mind. She surprised when Jane's voice enters her head, speaking softly and mesmerizing. Her reaction is to push it away, but she needs sleep and this could be the only way. She follows his instructions.
"Fall in to my voice as if I'm the couch. Feel how soft it is. Let it fold it'self around you. Just relax into it, don't resist. It 's strong and can keep you safe. Trust it Lisbon and let your mind drift away. It'll be the best night's sleep you've ever had. You'll awake in a couple of hours feeling like you've slept for ten."
Lisbon's breathing becomes regular as sleep over takes her. Jane smiles from his position at Cho's desk.
"Good night Lisbon."
he whispers before heading back to her office.