Welcome back my friends! Another split chapter- this will include Valentine's Day part one- Next chapter will contain part two. Relax, Read, and Review!

THE PHONE CALL

Clarice whispered, cupping her hand over the mouthpiece of the phone to buffer the sound, "He's sleeping, Will. Is it something I can pass along to him or is it an emergency?"

There was a pause as Graham considered the question. "It's not an emergency. I just wanted him to know what happened tonight. I got called to Quantico for a meeting with Pearsall and Bloom."

Clarice spoke very softly, unaware that although Hannibal's eyes were closed and he was careful not to alter his breathing patterns, he was indeed not only awake but listening.

"Christ they couldn't even wait a day?" she asked, incredulous at the speed with which Pearsall, normally a hopeless procrastinator, was working.

Remembering that Hannibal had offered for Clarice to sit in on his meeting with Bloom, Graham decided that Hannibal wouldn't mind him giving the information to Clarice.

"That's what I said. I just wanted Hannibal to know that Bloom scored the test and Hannibal passed but Bloom doesn't care. Regardless of the outcome, he's going to suggest that Hannibal is still a threat. He's still talking about getting your husband away from you and your baby."

There was silence at the other end of the line causing Graham to momentarily believe that his cell phone had dropped the call. "Clarice…Are you still there? Did you hear what I said? Bloom wants to separate Hannibal from your family."

Okay, this isn't new information it's just… disappointing the test didn't change things. Hannibal will know what to do. Don't lose your shit on the phone with Will Graham. Get the information Hannibal needs and get off the phone without crying your eyes out.

Clarice breathed deeply and removed the panic from her voice before responding, "I heard you Will. Pearsall called the meeting so obviously he wants to move quickly. Hannibal's going to want to know what was Pearsall's take on this is?"

Though in his car and obviously alone the sensitivity of the subject caused Graham to look over his shoulder as if someone were eavesdropping on the conversation. Reprimanding himself for his paranoia, Graham settled his nerves and explained the situation to Clarice.

"Pearsall told him if that was his decision he wouldn't support him. He told Bloom in no uncertain terms that if he goes beyond the boundaries of his assignment and mentions either you or your baby in that report in an unfavorable light he would dump the report."

Clarice was heartened that Pearsall was lending some level of support. She was however, extremely concerned about Bloom, "Do you think Bloom is going to be that adamant about this?"

Will Graham was confused by this entire process. He would have bet his life that he could predict exactly what Bloom would do under these circumstances he was that much a creature of habit, but not this time. Previously Bloom had been satisfied to be the puppet master, pulling at Chilton's strings, directing the machinations of torment unleashed on Hannibal behind the scenes in the name of psychological study.

He wanted so much to be anonymous in regards to Lecter that he made every effort to keep his name out of the press where Hannibal was concerned. Bloom helped design the restraints, suggested methods of testing, communicated with the FBI and helped to assess outcome all the while he allowed Chilton to absorb the limelight and thus a good deal of the professional recrimination and scorn. Now, he seemed immovable, unyielding. Sensing the fight would be a protracted one, Graham hated to relay his opinion to Clarice

"The real problem is that for some reason, the more Pearsall argued against Bloom's decision, the more Bloom stuck to his guns. I mean that guy really dug in his heals and it has me totally confused because standing up to conflict like that is really kind of out of character for Bloom. Normally, he is the king of diplomacy; if someone in authority shoves hard he immediately folds. This time he was so adamant and uncompromising that it was almost...I don't know if this will sound stupid to you but it seemed unbelievably self-destructive. Do me a favor and explain this to Hannibal. Tell him that Pearsall and I defended him. We'll have to find a way to convince Bloom."

"I'll talk to H about this later. Thanks for giving us the head's up…I really appreciate all you're doing for H and me. You've been a good friend to us, Will. I just want you to know how much it means to us both, especially to me. Hannibal has a tough time having friends. He's not…trusting by nature. He's had good reason not to be. I just wanted you to know you're appreciated even if he can't express that."

Clarice could practically hear the smile as it widened across Graham's face.

"It's nice of you to say that, Clarice. I get that he's never going to be that type of friend. Christ knows he was a terrifying enemy so I'm pretty happy to keep things just the way they are. When the report is ready I'm sure Pearsall will call me in so we'll be a step ahead of the process all along. We'll talk again soon."

"Thanks Will. Take care."

"You too, Clarice."

Clarice set the phone down. To ease her worry she began to busy herself rubbing Hannibal's back as he cradled her belly and, to her knowledge, still slept upon it.

Hannibal sensed her worry and though he didn't share it he felt obligated to address it. He shifted and slowly stretched as if slowly coming awake, "Clarice, I sense concern."

Clarice hesitated for the briefest of moments before proceeding as if not verbalizing the situation would in some way prevent it. Finally she blurted out emotionally, "Will Graham just called, H. He said Bloom is hell bent on separating you from our family. He doesn't give a damn about your score on that test. His mind is made up."

Hannibal's tone showed no sign of worry, rather he seemed confused as to Clarice's concern, "There is a measure of surprise in your voice and a scent of…fear, why? I had already told you as much, Clarice. Please take my word that I am not only prepared for that contingency, I encouraged it."

Clarice was so surprised she quickly shoved Hannibal's shoulders from her body forcing him to sit up and face her. The rapid escalation of anger caused her voice to tremble, "What the fuck do you mean you encouraged it? Jesus Christ, H…Are you kidding me?"

Hannibal stood silently, smoothed his clothing and walked to the fireplace with such fluid movement and ease he seemed to almost glide. The fire had long extinguished so he grabbed the poker that matched the elegant andiron set and closed the flue. Slowly replacing the tool to its stand, he stood for a moment with his back turned away from Clarice.

What shall I tell you, my Love…what will ease your mind? No, only the truth will do. You do not want your mind to be set at ease. You want honesty.

Clarice was growing irritated by his silence, "Ignoring me? That's mature," she groused.

Hannibal turned toward his wife. Standing straight, his shoulders squared, he shifted his weight onto his back leg, slipped his hands into the pockets of his tailored trousers and spoke very softly, "I am not ignoring you, Clarice. I am certain you expect honesty and am considering how to frame this in a way that will not add to your stress."

Clarice crossed the room and stood face to face with Hannibal, challenging him, "Don't fuck with me, H. If you've got something up your sleeve beside that Harpy I want to know about it."

His body was unnatural in its stillness moving only enough to speak, "Do you honestly think I would agree to this interview if I did not have a solid plan and a backup plan in the event there were unforeseen circumstances?" Hannibal approached his wife and smoothed his hands over her shoulders, his fingertips trailed down her arms.

Warmed by the contact, Clarice closed her eyes with his touch.

Hannibal reached for her hands and gently laced his digits within hers. Opening his arms as he held her hands, the momentum pulled her to him.

"I was able to lure our dear Doctor Bloom into a state of suggestibility. I implanted several suggestions that I believe will in the long term protect us. In the short term, it may present a variety of difficulties though I am certain I can handle those as well."

"Suggestibility…You hypnotized that idiot?" Clarice half-laughed at the thought of it.

Seeing her obvious amusement, Hannibal flashed a wicked grin, "Yes, in a manner of speaking."

Clarice wrapped her arms around Hannibal's neck and whispered in his ear, "What suggestions did you make, H?"

Hannibal placed Clarice's hands on his hips and pulled her against his body shifting against her to feel her more fully. He breathed deeply and focused on the changes in her body, now much softer and even more voluptuous with her blossoming pregnancy.

Wanting to focus solely on his wife, Hannibal hated to sully his thoughts with Bloom. He whispered huskily in her ear, his amorous intentions, like his breath, hot against her flesh, "Must we speak of this now, my Love?"

Clarice forced his focus, "Yeah, now H. What did you suggest?"

Hannibal searched her throat, mouthing the area where he left his mark earlier, the heat within him being stoked by the contact he spoke against her neck between tastes of her flesh, "Hmmm, nothing that… he would find… morally reprehensible… I assure you."

Encouraging the contact, Clarice allowed her head to roll slightly exposing her neck to him though she remained focused enough to require an explanation, "What's that mean exactly, H?"

Hannibal continued to focus on the taste of her. He mouthed tenderly, careful to keep his teeth and his aggression at bay, "I merely… reinforced ideas… he had… already… been…cultivating."

Clarice was growing so distracted by his attention she placed her hands on his chest and pushed him back slightly. She met his eyes and spoke plainly, "We know the ideas he was cultivating and none of them were good for us, H."

It was getting late and Hannibal still had preparations for the following day, he longed to take his wife to their bed, "It is time to retire, Clarice. It will be Valentine's Day in one hour and I would very much like to celebrate."

"Don't dodge the question, H," Clarice cautioned, "I'm not going to be handled. What did you suggest?"

"We can walk and talk, yes Clarice?"

"Sure, as long as you stop dodging the question, H."

Hannibal smiled and took Clarice, leading her by the hand out of the family room to begin the brief walk up the stairs to their bedroom. The tone of Hannibal's voice was soothing and confident, "Let us just say that I encouraged him to take those ideas maybe a bit further than he would have done so himself. In that way those same ideas become less dangerous to us and more to him."

As they took to the stairs with Clarice two steps ahead. Hannibal continued to reach for her as they ascended, enticed by the swing of her hips with the rise of each step.

Clarice was no longer worried as much as curious, her voice unburdened by earlier fears, "Why would taking his ideas further be helpful to us? I'd argue that the opposite would be true."

They reached the top landing and Hannibal immediately took his place at his wife's side resting his hand at the curve of her back.

Instinctively, she shifted her weight against him. As they walked Hannibal explained his intention, "If Bloom is seen to be…vindictive or is judged to be seeking retribution instead of simply evaluating my mental status it would negate his assessment."

Now in the bedroom the pair began to undress as they discussed the situation. Clarice slipped out of her clothing without noticing that Hannibal was focused on her progress. She questioned him without looking up, "What did you need the cameras and recording devices for?"

Hannibal undressed as he explained his mindset, his eyes on Clarice as she slipped into their bed, "The recording devices provide proof that I took the test in good faith and answered all of the questions honestly as put to me."

"Why would he lie about that?" Clarice questioned as she leaned on an elbow and flipping back the covers, welcomed her husband into their bed. Hannibal slid quickly between the sheets and took her in his arms. He kissed her gently.

Clarice captured his face and redirected him, "You're losing focus H…why so many different devices to record the meeting?"

"I'm sorry Clarice…with the recording devices in place, Bloom cannot fabricate a situation to his benefit. He cannot say that I was threatening or violent in any way. If he chooses to pursue this matter, and believe me he will, I will have evidence on multiple platforms to support the assessment that I am indeed, of sound mind…"

Hannibal covered Clarice's body carefully with his and kissed her passionately, "…and very sound body."

VALENTINE'S DAY: Part One

Hannibal rose early the morning of Valentine's Day that he might purchase the groceries needed for the evening. He visited the grocery store and purchased the majority of his needs. He walked the aisles in search of the elusive pink confection Clarice described.

Where in the world might one find something of that nature?

Hannibal finally walked down the bread aisle and saw a large rack on the end cap filled with assorted confectionary snacks. He discovered the SNO-BALLS, and placed several packages in his cart.

His next stop would be Glarus Chocolatiers in Baltimore to pick up the basket he had requested be assembled for Clarice. The basket contained a thirty-six piece box of assorted truffles, a thirty-six piece box of assorted Swiss chocolates, bags of bittersweet and sweet almonds, chocolate covered espresso beans, and some drinking chocolate and scattered about the inside were a variety of handmade bar chocolate, and dark chocolate bark.

The purchase was quick the proprietors friendly as Hannibal paid for the gift and thanked them for the lovely presentation. The basket was well-wrapped in cellophane and topped with a deep, chocolate colored bow, Hannibal deciding that a heart shaped box was neither his nor his wife's style and allowed the owners to wrap the basket in the manner of their shop. Hannibal then ventured home with his parcels to begin cooking.

Clarice woke to find the house smelling like a bakery. Hannibal had prepared freshly squeezed juice, and baked tarts made with fresh figs, toasted pignoli, and honey. There was a note centered on the breakfast bar beside the tarts.

Dearest Clarice,

Happy Valentine's Day, my Love. Forgive my brief absence as I am purchasing the necessary items for our celebratory dinner.

Enjoy the tarts while you await my return. Figs, pignoli, and honey have long been considered aphrodisiacs. Please indulge as I intend to do as such for the remainder of the day and evening.

Rest assured as soon as my errands are concluded, I will return to lavish you with my affection.

Ever yours,

H

Clarice smiled.

You think you have a plan, H? What I have planned for you will blow you away.

Hannibal returned within the hour with his arms full of parcels. He carried the groceries in the kitchen and quickly placed the perishables in the refrigerator. Clarice marveled at the energy and intensity with which he moved about.

"Happy Valentine's Day, H," Clarice spoke quickly and grabbed Hannibal's hand as he passed.

Hannibal stopped and bent to kiss his wife tenderly, "Happy Valentine's Day, my Love. My apologies for seeming to ignore you, I have plans to execute. I wouldn't serve meatballs that haven't been cooking for several hours. To that end, I needed to visit the market and must start my preparations immediately. If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to give you the first part of your gift."

Hannibal slipped away, quickly returning to Clarice carrying the large basket of chocolates.

"I thought the traditional red heart full of second rate chocolates would not be satisfying, Clarice."

Clarice smiled widely, "You don't even do candy halfway do you, H?"

"There is a very high quality drinking chocolate that you might enjoy with your tarts. Chocolate is also said to be an aphrodisiac. Montezuma consumed fifty cups of chocolate from a golden goblet to increase his sexual prowess. "

"Sounds like a bunch of crap to me, H."

"Perhaps, though there is a basis in human physiology to support it. Eating chocolate releases Phenylethylamine and Serotonin into the system producing the same euphoric effects as sexual arousal," Hannibal winked at Clarice and flashed a suggestive smile, "Eat your tarts and chocolates my Love as you will need every bit of your energy. Last night aside, I would have you well-contented this day my Love."

Clarice stuffed an entire tart into her mouth and gobbled it down in one ravenous bite, "Don't worry about me, H…as long as you can keep it up…I'll keep up!"

Hope you enjoyed the chapter! The time- Valentine's Day Part Two!

Review and tell me what you think, then PM and say Hi!

Until the next chapter my friends!

LH