Preamble Binds

by JazzyGirlFriday

After five years Jo Polniaczek returns to New York City and Blair Warner suddenly finds herself in a newly appointed corporate position. Relationships change over time...so do hearts. Jo and Blair are suddenly thrust into a tumultuous journey in learning about what they want in life and love.

10. Chapter 10

I beg forgiveness for the long wait, as my life had taken on a move from one home to the next this past month... quite frustrating and time consuming. Somehow I managed to lose my first draft of this chapter as well, which is why it took so long to get posted. That's life I guess, but nonetheless, the show must go on. Kudo's to my beta, Zebeza, for getting through another long one.

Enjoy!

---

The wheels of the long black limousine squeaked as the tires turned and adjusted to the smooth, slick surface of the parking garage. Dark tinted windows were rolled up as Hamilton positioned the car in front of the executive elevators.

The partition between him and Blair was up and the president of Warner Textiles Corporation reclined in the back seat.

"I don't like this Daddy."

Blair switched the phone to her other ear while deft fingers played nervously with the tightly wound threads of her seatbelt. The revelations from the night before about her uncle's crooked business dealings had her feeling on edge, not to mention her own safety was now in question. She'd barely slept at all and Blair let out a frustrated breath as she thought about the busy day that lay ahead of her.

They had to inform the board. It was necessary now; no more stalling. The members needed to know the warehouses were not going to be rebuilt; which meant not generating clothes… or revenue.

That's going to affect our stock. Blair let her hand fall, feeling utter dread. That would be a hard-hitting disappointment to say the least.

She shook her head; shifting focus. Her father had informed her again of the corporate security detail he had provided for the entire family. There was a shadow team assigned to each family member. They were to stay at a distance and on duty as a mobile unit only. He assured her of her privacy; however, he intentionally left out Jo as strategic component of her safekeeping.

It was confirmed, earlier that morning, with a brief update of the case - that the family was in real danger now. Eric added the new information about Joyce Warner's involvement to the file. The conclusion was she was within the legal jurisdiction to do what she wanted with her property in Japan. That included taking possession of the money; since there was still no documented link between an actual tangible criminal and the revenue from the products the factory had manufactured. It was a clever maneuver Russell had been carrying out with the shifting of money through ghost accounts, indeed. As of now, the case was closed for the Japanese authorities… but still open for the secret service.

The remaining threats of danger were the primary focus of the three inside agents assigned to Warner Textiles Corporation.

After her own personal briefing earlier, Jo had gone through the routine of privately securing Blair's cell phone data stream, social media access sites and her personal computer operating system: all to secure and monitor any potential hacker activity.

She headed for work, having made it through security; and ambled her way into the back of the elevator, where she rested her head on the back wall while gripping her briefcase. An occasional wave of pain throbbed in her side as she shifted to let more people into the elevator.

Once she finally made it to the 39th floor, she made her way over to her desk and set up shop. Getting out her note pad and laptop, she set her phone, and tapped the back of her ear.

"Test."

"Here."

"Made it in. I'm setting up now." She opened her laptop.

"Good. How's your side?"

"Fine. It was just a bruise," Jo grumbled as she plugged in her device.

"You mean a gash. Jo you have several stitches, be careful."

Jo winced as she slowly sat down, adjusting to get comfortable. "It'll heal." She was careful of the new wound dressing around her waist. It was a little tight, and the injury it covered was still quite fresh.

"Just be careful, we still don't know who did this to you."

Eric had run the plate information Jo had given him, except she had remembered two of the characters incorrectly and the plate came up to be out of circulation.

The distant pinging of the executive elevator sounded. Jo glanced at her watch: 9am. She decided at least with all the craziness suddenly surrounding them – to set the day off on a bright note would be a step in the right direction.

"Warner's coming in."

"Good. You know what you have to do."

She heard the quick, brisk rhythm of the stealth heels on hard carpet getting closer and finally rounding the corner.

"Good morning," Jo showcased a big toothy grin.

"My office now, please," came the soft command. The blur went right past Jo and through the office doors.

Jo frowned. "Yes, ma'am," she mumbled.

Jo grunted as she carefully got up from her chair. She tapped off her earpiece, then took a deep breath and made her way through the doors. Blair was standing in front of the enormous floor to ceiling windows behind her desk. She seemed tense and transfixed her gaze on something outside.

Jo entered the room, approaching her carefully. "Are you okay?" She peered out of the window, noting nothing of any great interest – save the vast buildings and skyscrapers.

It was quite a view, and a lovely morning weather-wise. The rays of the sun were beginning to gather in intensity, the lines hitting the windows casting a vibrant radiance that brightened everything in the room.

Blair sighed, "I'm fine." Her shoulders dropped. "Actually, I have something I need to tell you, Jo." She kept her back to the brunette, contemplating how to go about informing her of just how bad things were about to become.

"You can tell me, Blair. Whatever it is." And I have a pretty good idea. Jo leaned back on the edge of Blair's desk, not quite sitting or standing, but bearing the pain in her side as she stilled herself in the process.

Blair slowly turned around; her arms were crossed over her chest tightly, and tension was coming off of her in waves.

Jo saw the furrow of her brow. "You can trust me," she said gently.

"And that's just it, you know?" Blair dropped her arms with exasperation. "You seem like the only person I can trust right now." She looked into green eyes that attempted to convey understanding.

Calm. Keep her calm. "Blair, just calm down and tell me. It's okay," Jo's eyes held Blair's. She noted the trusting glimmer in the brown one's in front of her.

Blair nodded. Here goes. "Last night at dinner, I learned about a few things concerning my late uncle's business dealings."

Jo remained silent, opting to let Blair take her time. It was better for the client to work things out for themselves.

"My uncle, Russell, had apparently gotten the business into a bad situation. Some… not so friendly deals," Blair finished nervously.

Hmm. Jo let a few moments go by before she responded. "So, you're saying he'd been doing something unlawful?"

"Unlawful?" Blair let out an amused laugh. "That's one way of putting it." She tried to lend a smile to that, but the effort weighed too much, and she shook her head bitterly.

"To put it bluntly, his unlawful dealings have now put the rest of the family in danger," Blair got the words out quickly. It actually felt good to tell someone. "And since you'll be working with me, I felt it necessary to tell you." Blair watched as Jo absorbed that.

"I understand," Jo said. She knew how hard it was for Blair to admit anything negative about the company. Her family's honor meant everything to her.

"No you don't, Jo. This is very serious. There's an investigation going on. Anyone in my immediate family, the company, my friends – could be in danger," Blair said firmly.

Jo crossed her arms over her chest, careful not to put too much weight on her diaphragm. "So you're saying there are people who want revenge on your late uncle?"

Blair hesitated a little before confirming, "Yes," she said softy. "I don't want any danger to come to anyone associated with the company or… me."

Blair turned then made her way to the mini bar across the room. Jo watched as she poured two glasses of ice water. She walked over and handed Jo hers.

"Thanks." Jo took a sip. "I'll be alright. I'm not really associated with Warner. Not in the sense that anyone would tie me in to your daily operations." She sat the glass down on the desk.

Jo had said that so calmly, and resolutely; and it alerted Blair's senses acutely. "Don't be so naive. You could be a formidable target, Jo. People could be out to do all of us harm!" Blair's eyes rounded in fear at the notion.

Jo muted a trite response at the panicked look on Blair's face; and instead, opted to try another angle. "Any ideas on who would be out for revenge?"

Agent handbook, client protection care procedure #43 – get the client to open up and talk about their fears and or concerns about the situation.

"I can't talk about it."

Okay, so fail. "Blair, I can take care of myself. I'm promising you this." Jo gave the blonde what she hoped was a reassuring look.

"That's a nice gesture, Jo, but this is a very serious situation," Blair shook her head, dismissing the declaration.

"I know that Blair," Jo countered.

"Then you understand as president I have to look out for the well being of the company and my staff."

Blair hoped she was coming across clear and concise. She received a noncommittal mumble, and gave Jo a somber look. "This is not a matter of choice. I'm not taking a chance on anything happening to you."

Jo glanced down at her hands, then back up. She wasn't exactly agreeing with the executive. She'd heard the double meaning of Blair's statement. "What are you suggesting?"

Blair closed her eyes then nodded to herself, her mind made up. "I think we should postpone the project."

She swiftly turned, facing the windows. Her mind was racing and she could feel her skin grow hot with worry. She slowly peered up; seeing Jo in the reflection of the glass as she shifted on the desk to stand.

"Wait a minute, Blair. I told you, you don't have to worry about me. I have ways of protecting myself."

Such had been the way of the lone Bronx barbarian, back in the day. Back then she was the smart girl from the seedier side of New York, and of course the overachiever from downtown, who against all odds, graduated at the top of her class. Deep down she was still in touch with where she'd come from; where she'd been since and where she was now. Blair had been with her for some of the journey; seen plenty of the changes - the good and bad.

She turned around and faced the defiant brunette. She almost wanted to smile at Jo's penchant for affiliating any type of danger to how she grew up. She gave her a thin smirk. "Jo this isn't some petty street level crime we're talking about."

"I know that, Blair," Jo mockingly sneered at that. She knew what the blonde meant. "Trust me, please?" She'd floated it out there in an attempt to sway the argument; a bit of a fruitless endeavor when it came to Blair, but a girl had to try.

Blair shook her head, "Jo, these people could be out to hurt you!" she paused. "All of us."

"Blair—"

"I want you safe!" The tone was defensive and Blair realized the harshness of the reality surrounding them was not going to be easy to dismiss as trivial.

Jo deflated a bit at the appeal. "I appreciate that, very much, I do," she took in a breath. "But, Blair, you can't let something like this keep you trapped in fear and from living your life."

Jo had always gotten through to Blair by having a steady, cool head. She relied on that now as she saw the blonde staring at her in thought and with expectation.

"Look, you have a security detail I'm sure, right? Your father has made sure of that?" Jo asked.

A sigh, "Yes. Now that I'm president," Blair answered; though she remained defiantly skeptical. "That still doesn't guarantee anything, Jo. When you leave Warner—"

"I'll be fine. I'm not on anyone's radar," Jo said. She flicked a look out of the window then back to Blair.

"You don't know that," Blair pointed a hard finger. So typical. She felt as though her nerves were being tested by the stubbornness.

"Look, Blair, I'm probably pretty safe here, in the building, as we all are." Jo stated.

"Yes, but once you leave here, it could be bad, very bad," Blair threw a dour expression, then took a long drink of water.

The woman could be quite adamant and inflexible, Jo reflected. She observed her, noticing her attire: a dark blue power suit complete with a form fitting, white blouse. The pattern on it matched the one on her jacket that was neatly folded over the arm of the couch across the room.

Blair raised a curious brow at the sudden examination. She slowly set her glass down on the desk beside Jo's. "What are you thinking?"

Jo pursed her lips. She had but one ploy left to try; it was necessary to attempt to diffuse the situation before the client started to panic, rule # 113. She cleared her throat.

"Big deal." Yeah, so it was an old, childish thing to say, but sometimes it worked in a pinch.

"Big deal?" Blair lifted an incredulous brow. How cute. "That's all you have to say?" She swept her eyes over Jo with trepidation.

Jo nodded, pretending to think. "Okay then… so what?"

Blair glared at her. "You're not taking this seriously, I should've known."

She grabbed their glasses and took them back to the mini bar, setting them on top. She turned facing her obstinate friend. "Jo, these people could come after anyone affiliated with Warner, and yes, that means you. You work with me!"

"I still think you're overreacting."

Blair disregarded that. "I'm not overreacting, who knows what these people are capable of!"

Jo stretched out her arms. "Like what?"

"Kidnap, kill, hold hostage! That's off the top of my head!" Blair made her way back over, her eye's boring into the ones in front of her. She started to pace in front of the windows, putting her hands on her hips.

Jo grunted then rose to her full height. "Blair you can't cut everyone out of your life because of this." She watched as the blonde threw her a glower over her shoulder.

"So you're going to stop talking to Tootie and Natalie too?"

Blair ran a hand through her hair. "No, don't be ridiculous. I never said that."

"Then, trust me when I tell you that we need to finish the project, on time, and go on like business as usual." Jo's eyes fluttered as a small pang throbbed in her side. She sucked in a breath to discreetly ease the pain.

Blair wrinkled her nose at that. They were in a serious situation; that much could not be denied. For the life of her, she couldn't understand why Jo was behaving like this was some street fight where everyone went home at the end of it. Some a little more battered and bruised than others.

No. This had to be handled the right way.

She knew the ultimate reasonable thing to do was utilize her position to its full potential. She reached into her pocket and pulled out her cell phone.

Jo watched her; a brown brow rose. "What are you doing?"

"I'm calling JTI to cancel the contract," Blair faced her defiant friend and tapped in the number.

Jo shook her head. She eyed the phone in Blair's hand. "Blair, don't do this."

Blair gave her a stern look. "We both need to be safe. If that means cancelling the proj—"

It happened so fast Blair barely had time to react. The phone was swiftly taken from her, then quickly tapped off.

"Jo, give me back my phone," Blair said with a low growl.

Jo inclined her head rebelliously. She knew she had just set herself up to face the wrath of the executive's anger, but her duty was to keep the client safe. Sorry, sometimes doing one's duty was necessary in order to survive. Jo moved the phone off to the side as Blair lounged for it.

"Jo! Give it to me!" She moved them both back against the desk.

The back of Jo's thighs hit the edge, and she could feel her injury go numb from the jarring collision; it made her almost nauseous. A slight sheen of sweat had broken out on her forehead as she clamped down on a wave of pain.

"I can't let you do this Blair, please, just trust me!" Jo got out, then moved the phone behind her, clasping it with both hands to keep it out of reach. She lifted a brow in defiance, which only made Blair more determined.

"You don't understand how this works, I know what I'm doing. Give it to me!" Blair huffed then lunged toward Jo, knocking into her – her upper torso meeting Jo's. She could feel Jo's thighs against hers…

She hesitated; halting for an instant … a sharp awareness pierced her; acknowledging their sudden closeness as an unexpected flicker of weakness consumed her for a split second.

"…No…" Jo said softly.

It was as if everything was moving in slow motion as soft fingertips slipped over each other - Blair's nails lightly caressing the tops of Jo's hands, which were firmly behind her back.

Everything was gradually registering in that moment. The bright sun had moved, the streams of light causing the room to glow as bits of floating bright light danced around them.

Blair's hands settled on top of Jo's, and she could feel the shift of Blair's arms against her sides. She smelled strongly of lilac, and Jo's eyelids involuntarily shuttered as she bit her lip slightly, defiantly fighting the urge to swoon.

A few rays had hit the shiny wooden floor of the office, bouncing off perfectly to reflect on both of them. Jo tilted her head in wonder as a tiny smile made its way to the corner of her mouth and eyes... eyes that - without permission, without guidance, roamed to the pink parted lips in front of her, then back up to those in front of her with… wow, tiny flecks of green and gold that were slowly, openly, caressing her face with abandon… everywhere.

"Please…" came the breathless plea; Blair's brow creased passionately.

Jo could feel her own heart beat, fast and hard. It matched Blair's own, her pulse visibly beating wildly on the side of her neck. Blair could feel Jo's breath on her face.

Jo was thankful, in times like these that she'd had the gumption to actually preprogram herself to methodically go through the correct motions of logic. Particularly before she lost all sense of the control she felt rapidly slipping away.

She closed her eyes briefly, then swallowed hard as she gently removed Blair's hands from behind her. She gingerly placed the cell phone in Blair's palm. "Here… do what you have to do," she murmured hoarsely.

She knew better than to look at her anymore; then forced herself to turn, extracting herself from their embrace. Jo felt the sudden, cool air surround her; pushing her along as she made her way across the room.

She opened the door. "I'll get my things together and go; you won't have to deal with me anymore." Jo kept her gaze to the floor.

Blair took in a breath as she tried to call after Jo – she shuddered, feeling as though her breath had been stolen from her. She leaned on the desk for a moment, taking in a gulp of air. What just happened? She cleared her throat, making her way around the desk.

"Jo wait," she got out weakly.

Jo stopped, then sighed; her hand on the doorknob. She looked up to see Blair moving closer to her, just stopping one or two yards away. Blair rubbed her hands together, nervously.

"Please," she stated almost breathlessly.

Jo looked at Blair for a moment. "What do you want me to do?" she replied softly.

Blair took another step forward, pulling a strand of hair behind her ear, shyly. "Stay."

It was such a simple word, so unpretentious, that Jo blinked, surprised that it had made her heart beat a little faster. She beamed in reaction. She wants me… to stay. Good, this is good; she concluded. "Okay."

"We'll work something out," Blair smiled softly meeting the eyes in front of her finally; then quickly dropping them as she turned and headed for her desk.

Jo nodded as she watched Blair's hasty retreat, then she stepped out into the lobby, closing the door behind her. She stood with her back against it for a moment. Okay, c'mon focus, back to work. She eyed the security camera, then headed for her desk, carefully taking a seat.

She grimaced as she got comfortable, then flicked on her laptop. Setting her phone, then tapping the back of her ear. "Test."

There was a brief moment of silence then, "Here."

Jo brought out her note pad, finding the group of numbers she had scribbled down after their last meeting. She entered them on the computer. "Just talked with Blair. We almost lost the case."

"Don't tell me, another round between the two of you?" Jo could hear the large office chair squeak as Eric leaned back into it.

She paused looking carefully at the group of numbers. "Nope. Afraid I might get hurt if I continue to work with her," she continued typing.

"Ah. I'm sure you smoothed that over?"

"Absolutely. My charm is tested, tried and effective," Jo teased. "I told her security will see to our safety, nothing to worry about."

"Good job. Now you just have to keep her calm and safe."

"Yeah, well..." Jo paused before recalculating a sequence.

"What is it?"

"I'm working on that." Jo wrote the numbers down, calculating them by hand. She worked the problem out, getting the wrong answer.

"Be careful, Jo. It's important to gain the trust of the client, but not to the point that you lose any sense of your job. I know you two are friends, but you are the best person for this."

And probably the worst. "I'm aware."

Jo erased the numbers, then worked out the problem getting yet another wrong answer only to scratch through it. She worked the equation again coming up short, then balled up the paper, throwing it across the room – the ball hitting the water cooler then bouncing off.

Stupid numbers. Jo pushed her laptop to the side, then placed her elbows on the table rubbing her forehead. She sighed heavily and closed her eyes…

All she could see were flecks of green and gold, and… and…

"Jo?"

"Yes?" she slowly opened her eyes.

"Remember, it's important to keep and emotional distance for the sake of the case." Eric reiterated. He could hear the shuttered breathing on the other end.

Yep. "No problem." It was rule # 117; Jo had memorized most of them.

Damn the rules, damn this case and damn New York for bringing her back here. She disconnected her line to Eric, then sat back hard in her seat – a wave of pain lanced through her side, causing pain filled tears to spring forth as she ground her teeth together. She closed her eyes shifting; trying to get comfortable… the sudden aroma of lilac floated around her… Jo groaned, and blew out a frustrated breath then laughed out loud at her whole predicament; her circumstances...

Oh dear God. I have a problem.

---

Natalie had visibly flinched at the loud command... the summons. She hated being located so close to the chief editor's office. Her cubicle was within earshot and eyeshot. She knew the rules, getting up from her chair she grabbed her pad and pen - having them in hand when entering the bosses office. You never knew when a story could pop off and the chief wanted to see that you were ready at all times.

"Yes sir?" Natalie stood on the other side of Emmet Harris' desk.

The man sported a toupee that did little to hide his balding pattern. It was red like the rest of his dyed hair, save the gray temples.

"How's that exposé on Warner coming?" he barked. He was reading through a rough draft.

"It's… great," Natalie shifted to her other foot. "I didn't get the draft back from editing yet," she quietly admitted.

Blue eyes finally looked up at the reporter. "I had to put a lot of red on it, Green. I have Phil doing my back-up on it. He'll get it back to you." He pointed at her. "Make those corrections!"

"Oh, right. Yes sir." That wasn't exactly what she wanted to hear, considering she'd written the first draft of her story on Blair from sheer memory, experience and just from knowing her down through the years.

"When you get it back, bring it in here and we'll go over it," Harris scribbled on the draft he was reading.

"Okay."

Natalie let out a held breath. She was relieved he didn't get loud with her, which was the chief editor's reputation. He'd cussed and fussed out many a reporter, usually sending them back to their desk in tears. Break 'em down to build them up - to toughen you up and make you a better journalist, had been his war cry.

"Um… is that all, sir?" she tapped her pen on her pad.

"That's all." The man went back to his paper, then suddenly looked up. "Green!"

Natalie ducked, Almost made it out. "Yes sir?"

Harris sat back in his seat, giving the young reporter a look over. "Get into Warner's private world and dig up something of substance." He waited for a few seconds, the woman in front of him giving him a wide stare. "Why aren't you taking this down?"

Natalie fumbled, finally writing down the information. "Yes sir!" She scribbled fast. "Dig up dirt."

Harris frowned, "Not dirt, Green, get something personal, something the public may not suspect!"

Natalie blinked at the man a bit confused. "But sir, isn't that sort of the same thing? I mean—"

"Hell no, Green! It isn't the same thing!" Harris picked up a pencil and put it in his mouth, biting it. "I don't want unknowns, gossip, I want FACTS!" He gave her a hard stare.

"Got it." Natalie underlined the words 'facts.' "I'll get to work on this soon and—"

"Not good enough," Harris went back to reading his drafts.

Natalie stood there, a confused look on her face. "I thought you wanted—"

"A good reporter goes after their story when it's convenient, Green." He glanced up at her. "A great reporter goes after her story right away… no time like the present, Green. You gotta' catch 'em off guard."

Harris picked up the draft and turned in his seat. "Close the door on your way out," he said around the pencil in his mouth.

Natalie nodded. "Thank you, sir." She shut the door, then made her way to her cubicle, checking her watch. Natalie sat and contemplated a plan… one to catch Blair at home and in the wild, so to speak. She'll give me her undivided attention while I get close and personal… away from the office.

Natalie brought out a fresh piece of paper and began writing on it, then turned and opened a file on her computer. She smiled to herself. "No time like the present."

---

Most board meetings went exceptionally well for the hierarchy of Warner Textiles Corporation. Usually all everyone wanted to be informed about was the stock profile, a few lucrative stories about the new divisions and then go home with a positive prospectus.

It was reaching into late afternoon and Blair had stood with her father and Miles Winstead in front of eight other board members and numerous executive managers, answering an onslaught of questions about the Asian division. They were drilled about the plans to improve expansion and the fate of the warehouses that had been eliminated by Joyce Warner.

It was to be known she had decided to take them down. Miles had seen to that, being crystal clear to their constituents. David had even defended him as Blair, quietly watched; gathering her own personal fortress of information. She'd need it. The pending onslaught of more inquiries by the top branch executives was imminent.

They had spent three and a half hours in the boardroom. It would be almost five o' clock before the doors of the outer lobby would burst open. Blair was the first to exit after being bombarded with questions and held captive to explain the plans for rebuilding in the region.

The rebuilding having been her idea, her baby as she called it. She wanted the project to go smoothly. It would, undoubtedly, look good for her first turn out of the gate as president.

She hastily made her way over to the small snack and dessert table that had been set up. Pouring a hot cup of coffee, she added a few cubes of sugar, then grabbed a Danish. It was much needed and she savored the first bite with relish. She'd skipped lunch preparing for the meeting – they all had. It was a small sacrifice to make when the company's bottom line was in jeopardy.

"Blair, well done. I guess the region was probably due for a face lift anyway, save the warehouses."

Emily Gasturson had caught up with her. The marketing and advertising executive poured herself a cup of coffee. "I liked your final numbers for the new division. Glad we got those past your father." She blew on it, taking a sip.

Blair swallowed, then wiped her mouth. "Well worth all of our hard work." She took another bite of Danish.

"Let's just hope the board will accept them," Emily tapped a finger on her foam cup.

Blair hummed in agreement. "Full review won't be until the Tokyo numbers are in."

That would be Robert's report. He had inadvertently skipped the meeting, and it was well noticed. Blair made a mental note to get with him later.

"Are we going to have a problem?" Emily's brow rose in question.

Blair stirred a bit more sugar into her coffee. "I'll take care of that." She took another sip, wincing at the flavor, then adding more coffee.

"Blair, wonderful job," a salt and pepper haired man came up to her.

She took a small step back as the marketing and financial executive, Barry Winstead, smiled at her. He'd always been quite oblivious to other people's personal space and was within an inch or so shy of being inappropriately close during a regular conversation.

"Thanks Barry," she smiled at him. "I think your father handled the warehouse situation quite well actually."

The man nodded in agreement. His father, Miles, had always taken the helm whenever a critical matter came about within the company. He was senior level, and quite trusted among the board members. They listened to him. All Blair had to do was back him up, and of course, lie about the reason for the debacle.

She looked up as the boardroom doors swung open. Her father, who was surrounded by a small crowd of executives, was busy answering questions and fending off further inquiries.

Blair smirked, shaking her head. She felt for him. She checked her watch. "I have a meeting with the division managers." She grabbed her cup of coffee then two more Danishes, wrapping them in a napkin.

"Are you going to make it to the luncheon tomorrow?" Barry asked.

He was referring to a special divisional thing that was held at one of the downtown plaza's for all of the area executives of major corporations. It was for networking and pretty much leaking trade secrets. At least that was Blair's experience at last year's event.

"I'm thinking of sending someone over for Warner." She checked her watch again. "You know that JTI capstone project leaves my time thin now-a-days," she offered a bleak smile at that.

"Oh, that's right." Emily recollected the young woman who had been placed in the lobby outside of Blair's office. "Ms. Smith is my little analyst from there," she gave a strained smile.

"Good thing I don't have an executive assistant yet. Jo's got the perfect place to work… outside of my office," Blair pointed out.

Barry bit into a finger sandwich. "Norman Denzola's working from my outer office now," he paused, "guy comes in, does his work, sometimes asks me a few questions, then he's gone for the day." He looked at Blair. "He mentioned you went to school with Ms. Polniaczek," he alluded to a question.

"Yes, in Peekskill," Blair offered, then realized time was slipping from her. She gestured toward the elevator. "I really have to go, they're probably waiting for me."

Emily waved her away. "Go, by all means Blair," she smiled. "We'll do lunch and talk about our plan for the board."

By 'we' she indicated all three of them, since she, Barry and Blair had cooked up the numbers to fund the new regional division. They had been working on the idea for the last few months. The fact that Blair was now president posed a unique opportunity to get their plan approved by the board.

The two executives watched as Blair finally entered the elevator and left the floor.

Emily popped a small tomato in her mouth, chewing it, she turned to face Barry. "I think we're going to get this thing through with few problems."

Barry gave the redhead a tight grin, turning a satisfied glance down the hall Blair had just traveled. "I couldn't agree more."

---

Jo slowly released a breath and stilled her typing. She had been working on the latest calculations of the capstone, and was determined to finish the block before she took off for the day. She threw in the last few numbers before finalizing them.

She'd almost forgotten to change the dressing around her wound and got up to go to the restroom while Blair was out of the office and not on the same floor. It was private, and thankfully, the cameras not allowed in there. She rewrapped her torso, having applied the prescribed ointment to the gash and checked her stitches. The wound was still swollen and red and seeped a bit of fluid.

It had been a jagged rock that did the damage. When she'd been forced off her bike and slung to the ground - she went right over it, the sharp, hard edge grazing then piercing her side so fast she'd been unaware at first.

Jo pulled her shirt back down into her dress pants before exiting the restroom and heading back to her station. She noticed Blair's door was slightly open.

She must be back. Jo headed over, then peered into the office. Blair was at her desk, engrossed in her pad, typing fast; slinging papers from one stack to the other.

Jo her watched for a while from across the room, then tapped on the doorframe lightly. "Hey."

Blair looked up, squinting. "Hi."

Jo bit back a grin. "I'm getting ready to head out now. You need anything?"

Blair held up her fingers, wiggling them. "More hands?" She grimaced playfully, then chuckled.

Jo couldn't help but smile back. "Looks like you're going to be here for a while," she gave her friend a soft laugh.

"I'm afraid so," Blair agreed, indicating her busy, paper filled desk.

She sighed, deciding to take a small break. She looked across the room. Jo was casually leaning against the doorframe. Her gaze was almost piercing, and Blair leaned back in her chair, licking her lips slightly. She returned the gaze, openly raking her eyes over Jo's form, from head to toe; perhaps a little unconsciously.

She noticed a slight blush color Jo's cheeks at the assessment, and felt herself flush in return; they both mutually averted their eyes.

Blair made a small moaning noise then cleared her throat. I couldn't forgive myself if something happened to her. She glanced down at a spreadsheet. I'm being silly. She'll be fine. She just simply had to learn to trust that security wouldn't let anyone within ten miles of The Warner Building, the family, executives… friends. Both Jo and her father had reassured her.

She flicked the wispy bangs from her forehead. She knew she had to be reasonable, keep her fears in check and go on as Jo had said – business as usual. That seemed to be their mantra as of late.

Jo carefully pushed off from the doorframe. "Well, I'll get out of your hair then," she nodded then turned, making her way over to her desk.

She tapped in a few commands, shutting her system down, then packed up her briefcase and headed for the elevator.

"Jo?"

The soft voice was startling and Jo turned to see Blair quietly coming toward her.

"Yeah?" She switched the briefcase to her other hand while pushing the down button.

Blair took a few steps toward the brunette. "I was serious before when I said, we'll work something out." She noticed the nod from Jo. "I do want you safe."

She was adamant, that much was quite clear and, Jo sensed. very determined. She hummed in agreement. She was flattered, to be quite honest. Her friend and former childhood agitator had, over time and much distance - become someone whom she valued and cared for… very much.

"I know," Jo didn't really have more to say to that. She inhaled a breath. "Your dad's detail will follow me around town, then back to my place," she explained.

Blair nodded. "Did you ride your bike here this morning?"

Fair question, Blair. But due to her injury, riding the motorcycle was a big no-no. Doctor's orders – until the stitches came out.

"I took a cab in this morning." The side of Jo's mouth twitched to a grin as she watched the blonde almost collapse with relief.

Blair regained herself as the elevator arrived. The doors slid open and Jo entered, pressing the lobby button.

"Oh, I almost forgot," Jo stopped the doors from closing by sticking her arm between them, much to Blair's amusement.

"What?" she asked.

"Computer guys came in while you were gone. They said you knew they were coming to service your computer."

"Oh, yes," Blair acknowledged. "I actually told them to do a routine clean and virus removal."

In exchange for an entire hard drive removal, Jo guessed. So Blair had cancelled her uncle's regular purging. It made sense seeing that the information was void and non-existent now. She'd seen to that; which was, of course, something Blair didn't need to know.

"Good idea," Jo agreed, her arm was getting tired, "I won't keep you," she looked toward the president's office. "I know you have a lot of work to get to."

Blair offered a smile. She mentally made a note that Jo was doing her nice thing again. She put a hand on Jo's rather stiff arm. "Please take care of yourself."

Jo sighed, "Blair stop worrying about me, okay?" She dropped her arm, then reached over and pressed the hold button to keep the doors open.

Blair had quietly stepped into the elevator and it was then that Jo knew the dire consequences that arose when on a case this vital. Especially when she found her arms full of the woman whom she was to keep calm and protect.

Jo dropped her briefcase as she suddenly felt the arms go around her. Blair moved her head to be buried in the crook of her neck and Jo couldn't help but respond by putting an arm around her. She held it there, gently; while her other hung loosely at her side.

Blair made a comforted sound. Jo smelled of soap and that special "Jo" scent she was all too familiar with, having lived with her for so long.

"Blair."

"Shh, just…" Blair released her hold, only loosening her arms, but keeping her hands on Jo's shoulders. She noticed green eyes avoiding hers. "Let me say this, please?"

"What?" Jo shifted, edging herself to the side. She pulled away a little to put a bit of distance between the two of them.

There was a sharp puff of exasperation as she rolled her eyes, and Blair suddenly found the gesture quite endearing. Truth be told, she had always found that pouting, girlish quality quite cute…

And attractive.

She bit the inside of her lip and released Jo, stepping back, while running a hand through her hair.

Jo waited. Her cheeks were dotted a deep crimson red, and she could feel her palms starting to sweat. Keep your composure.

"I..." Blair held up a halting hand to rethink what she was about to say. "I have a responsibility to any and everyone working at this company to ensure their safety."

Jo picked up her briefcase. Not this again, she thought, but remained silent. She waited.

"So with that, I trust you will get home safely then back to the office by nine tomorrow morning," Blair said with conviction.

Jo pressed the lobby button again. "I promise."

"You do?" Blair started to back out of the elevator.

"Blair, will you let me go?" Jo tapped the button again, wishing the doors would make up their mind to close already.

"Okay. " Blair watched as the doors slowly slid together, noticing another eye roll, she gave her flustered friend a toothy smile. "Bye."

The doors closed completely and Blair dropped her smile. What the hell is wrong with me? She turned slowly; she didn't dare let her thoughts go there. "This is just nerves, just the fear talking." Blair took a deep breath, shaking any notions and feelings from her system.

She started to make her way back to her office, slowing a bit at Jo's desk as she absentmindedly ran a fingertip along the surface of it. But she's so attractive to me. She stopped her actions and rolled incredulous eyes at that.

Admitting it. She always has been.

Okay I went there. She closed her eyes at the thought. "Don't mess up things by… sigh."

"Jo is working with you, this is a first. Make of it what you will. Fine. But we both have a project to get through and finish," she chastised herself.

Blair crossed her arms over her chest as she causally stepped into her office. The day was slowly winding down, the sun starting to set behind the tall skyscrapers; casting the room in a gray hue.

She took a few slow steps toward her desk. Amanda is right, though. Her hips swayed a little as a wispy smile found its way to her lips. She is gorgeous.

She eyed the sobering stack of papers she had been previously working on. "May as well just dive back in."

Her phone chirped and Blair glanced at the screen. It was Amanda. "Hey."

"Hi. Are you busy?"

"Um..." Blair took a seat. "Actually, I'm swamped."

"I was hoping we could have dinner tonight."

"I really can't," Blair sat her phone down, tapping on the speakerphone icon. She picked up a contract and examined it, noting a few vague references as she circled them.

"I have an idea."

"What?" She circled three more lines before moving on to the next contract.

"Seeing that you're swamped and tied to the office for a while, why don't I just bring dinner to you when you get home later?" There was a moment of silence then, "Blair?"

Blair blinked, as she put the paper down. "Uh... yeah, sure. That'd be quite nice."

She leaned back in her chair barely remembering what she'd just been asked and had agreed to.

"Good, then it's all set?"

"I-I really don't know how long I'll be here so…" Blair shifted through the stack of papers.

"I'll tell you what. Call me when you're leaving the office and I'll pick up something from that little bistro you love and bring it right over." Amanda waited for a beat. "Sound good?"

Blair inhaled, thinking. "Sure." Food. Right. "Thank you. I hadn't figured out dinner tonight."

Amanda smiled at that. "My pleasure. I'll see you later then?"

Blair nodded. "Yes."

"Bye."

"Bye."

Blair tapped off their conversation. She started to tap in another number, her finger hovering over the screen. "I'll just text her later… once she's had enough time to get home."

She turned looking out over the large expanse of buildings. It was an uncomfortable and eerie feeling knowing there were people out there willing to bring down the company as a means of revenge: and on her watch. Blair closed her eyes and meditated a bit. Concentrating, she could still feel Jo's hand on her back as they had held each other in the elevator. It sent an unexpected rippling of warmth that surrounded her and calmed her… almost like this morning.

A smile tugged at her and she opened her eyes, focusing on the sobering view. Reality pierced her senses and she felt an incessant mood settle over her, driving her to be even more determined.

Not on my watch.

---

The trail had seemed longer than usual. Expected, of course, as Jo took slow and careful steps along the path. She held firm to Ace's leash; careful not to walk too fast or make any sudden, erratic moves as she cleared the end of the path and headed back to her apartment.

She had exchanged her work attire for loose jogging shorts and a tank top, complete with jogging shoes and a bottle filled with ice water.

"C'mon boy," Jo carefully tugged him away from yet another small bush as he attempted to mark it.

She came up the slight hill that led to the row of brownstone apartments. Each one had a small patch of grass that counted as a front yard. Not easy to do in the city, but many of Jo's neighbors had made the best of it. Most notably, Meo De Palma who had a beautiful rose and herbal garden.

It was delightful, and actually enhanced the neighborhood as several rose bushes of different colors peppered the front of the home. Then, on the side of the brownstone, Meo had carefully grown and tilled an assortment of herbs and medicinal plants and flowers. She often used them to cook with and of course, as a means of treating and curing many ailments. Such were the ways of her ancestors. Being from Beijing, China, Meo had immigrated to the United States forty years ago. She had worked as a nurse for many years before retiring. She had met and fallen in love with an Italian man – a restaurateur - Edgar De Palma over thirty years ago. They had four boys; now all grown.

Their courtship had been stormy, as both of their families had shunned and forbidden their engagement. But they prevailed and withstood the onslaught of disapproving words and judgments by both their families and by perfect strangers.

Jo had met the opinionated woman when she'd first moved back to the city, a little over a week ago. They talked in the evenings when she got home from work and had formed a friendship of sorts.

She slowly approached Meo, as the woman had her back to her, bent over, working around her roses. She had on a wide brimmed hat and gardening gloves as she used a hoe to chop at the weeds.

Jo admired her colorful display of roses. "Hi Mrs. De Palma. How are you?

The petite woman straightened and gave Jo a smile, then looked down seeing the panting dog at her side. "I fine… but he!" She pointed to Ace who whined at the gesture.

Jo grimaced. Uh oh.

"He pee my flower!" She shook her hoe at the dog; causing him to bark guiltily, then hide behind Jo's legs.

"I'm really sorry about that ma'am." Jo jerked the leash a bit keeping Ace from winding around her legs. The last thing she needed was to fall down. She gave him a tight look. "He won't do that again," she commanded.

Meo slowly nodded. "Good, good," she wiped at her brow. "He good dog, but…." She sized him up for a second, noting his fidgety ways and his wagging tongue. "He need good lay," she concluded.

Jo hiked a smirk at that. She kept herself from laughing out loud. "Yeah, yeah, I get that a lot. Believe me."

Meo continued to jab at a particularly stubborn weed. "You get him girlfriend, yeah?" she asked.

Jo ducked as a few roots and leaves were slung past her. "I'm thinking about it," she lied.

"Good. Good," Meo stopped then turned and smiled at Jo, taking in her appearance. She nodded, her mind made up. "You get girlfriend too," she went back to de-weeding her flowerbed.

Jo stood there silently. What?

Meo kept on digging, finally getting down to the dirt. "You need girlfriend," she spared Jo a look over her shoulder. "Good for you."

"Oh, yeah well…" Jo shifted her stance.

"Whoof!"

Green eyes glared down at the treasonous dog, who looked up at her wagging his tail. "Traitor," she mumbled.

"No good be alone," Meo pushed the dirt into place around her rose bush.

"I'm working on it," Jo held her tongue. It felt quite uncomfortable talking about her love life.

Meo didn't respond for a moment then nodded her head, deciding to end their conversation as she always did. "Okay, bye."

Jo knew her cue. "See you later, Mrs. De Palma." She saw the slight wave from the woman. Grunting, she gently made her way up the steps to her apartment.

"I leave herb with your father!" Meo said abruptly, and pointed to Jo's side. "For you, heal!"

Jo lifted a brow at that. "Thank you." Jo saw the woman nod then go back to tilling.

"C'mon boy." She let Ace go in front of her as she opened the door. The Jack Russell sprinted to his water bowl, lapping at it with fervor.

Jo eyed her father sitting on the couch. His casted leg was propped up on the coffee table. She hung up Ace's leash, then made her way over to him.

Charlie Polniaczek looked up as his daughter approached. "Hey."

"You told Mrs. De Palma I'm gay?!"

Startled hazel eyes looked at Jo with confusion. "What's the matter with that?"

Jo put her hands on her hips, her brow creased with frustration. "Pop, you can't do that!" She sent him an angry stare.

"Why not? You said you were out," Charlie waved the remote in his hand.

"Not to… " Jo shook her head making her way over to the kitchen. "It's my call pop, not yours. You can't go around telling people unless you clear it with me first!"

Charlie sensed the anger was reaching a boiling point within his daughter. "Oh." He felt bewildered. I don't get this gay stuff too good. He shifted on the couch. "Okay…"

"Just leave that up to me, can you do that?" Jo opened the cupboard getting out a bag of dog food.

"Sure, sure. Whatever," Charlie tossed back at her. He watched as she filled Ace's bowl, the dog trying to dig in before she could finish pouring his bowl full.

He winced in sympathy as Jo struggled to put the bag back in the cupboard. He'd seen her grimace as she walked around the apartment. "How's your side?"

"Better," Jo answered, finally setting the bag back on the shelf.

"You sure you're supposed to be walkin' around so much? What if you pop a stitch or somethin,' huh?"

Charlie was the first person Jo had called after being admitted to the hospital. He had arranged to have her taken to one of the facilities in the city, by cab. He met her there and stayed with her until she was cleared to go home hours later. It would be one o'clock in the morning before they would get back to the apartment.

Charlie had bawled her out about speeding on her bike, after she'd told him she had hit a pothole in the road, toppling her off of her bike. He made sure Jo took her pain pills on the hour, and forced her to change the dressing on the wound before it got infected. Jo could be a bit stubborn when it came to her own, personal care.

"I needed the exercise. Besides, there was no one else available to walk Ace," Jo pointed to Charlie's injured foot. "Speaking of which, he's been peeing all over the De Palma's flowers again."

Charlie shrugged. "Eh, he's territorial," He started flipping through the channels. "And horny," he added.

"There seems to be a consensus he needs a girlfriend," Jo said opening a bag of chips.

Charlie lifted a teasing brow at that. "Speaking of which…" he smiled slyly.

Jo cringed. Crap. Set that one right up. "Pop," she said in a warning tone as she emptied the bag in a large bowl.

"What? I was just gonna' to say, you kinda' fit that M.O. yourself." He couldn't help but chuckle at the look on Jo's face.

"Knock it off. I do not." She came over setting the bowl on the coffee table, grabbing a hand full of chips.

"Do so," Charlie leaned over a grabbed a few chips.

Jo watched him. "What are you getting at?"

"I'm sayin' ever since you had the guts to come out to me, I feel like I should look out for you. You know, push you out there to do some datin'."

"No thanks, I can handle my own affairs," Jo carefully settled down on the couch beside her father.

"I can handle my own affairs, well whoop-tee-doo!" Charlie mocked, then crunched a chip loudly. He twisted on the couch to face her. "Hear me out."

A guarded leer. "What?"

"You remember Manny's daughter, Pamela?"

Ah, geez, here we go. "Yeah? What about her?" She grabbed the remote from his hand.

"You said she had nice legs once."

"Mere observation," Jo clicked through the channels, finally settling on ESPN for the baseball scores.

"Observation, my ass. I saw the little twinkle you had," Charlie ate his last chip, then dusted off his hands, giving his daughter a teasing grin.

"There was no twinkle!" Jo sneered at him, then turned up the volume.

"Yeah, right. Look, Jo, you're a Polniaczek, and it doesn't matter a crap if you're a base-ball sexual, we wear our hearts on our sleeves."

Jo kept her eyes on the scores while munching a chip. She slowly looked over at her father, who was waiting for her to say something. "Is this your way of dumping on the Mets again?"

Charlie's face fell, then drew up in aggravation. "I don't have to dump on the Mets, the Mets dump enough on the Mets." He backhanded her lightly on the shoulder. "Stay with me here."

"I'm not going out with her!" Jo stated, then got up to go to the kitchen.

"Why not?"

She grabbed two cans of root beer from the refrigerator. "Is she even gay, Pop? Did you check?"

"She just broke up with her girlfriend," Charlie said quickly.

"And you think I want to be the rebound girl?" Jo handed him a can.

"Five months ago, you didn't let me finish!"

"Not happening," Jo took a sip of root beer.

"C'mon, it'll be good for you to get outta' the house once in a while."

"I have plenty to keep me busy." She eyed her father then made her way to her bedroom. Conversation over.

"In the evenings!" Charlie yelled after her.

"Forget it!" Jo tossed back at him, before loudly closing her room door.

Charlie shook his head, grabbing the remote. He started to flip through the channels. "Eh, we'll see… ya' stubborn little brat."

---

Blair slid the key into her keypad unlocking the door, as she bounded into the penthouse – setting down her briefcase and kicking off her shoes. She didn't bother putting the alarm on and ambled her way over to the refrigerator. Peeking in, then finding it, she smiled, taking out her favorite box of chocolates.

Plucking one from the container, Blair sunk her teeth into the savory morsel - closing her eyes and humming her approval at the sudden burst of flavor. God, sooo good. She leaned against the counter and chewed the dark chocolate ganache. The chocolates were from her favorite boutique: La Masion Du Chocolat, in Paris, France. It didn't hurt she also knew the owner and master chef personally. He had dusted the truffles with a bit more chocolate, like she'd asked him to.

Blair put the box back in the refrigerator, then made her way down the hall to her room. She noticed Gigi's room door was open. Oh, that's right. She's with Meg. Such was their arrangement. Blair and Meg had worked out an agreement where the little dog would spend the day at the mansion a few times a week; mostly because Blair feared she'd get lonely during the day at the penthouse, and needed to be around a family member. She'd axed taking her to dog camp – the larger dogs being too intimidating. Meg usually brought her back into the city in the evenings, after Blair had settled in after work.

Unless Blair had other plans… like tonight. She had called Meg explaining a late meeting, and telling her to just keep Gigi for the night.

Blair took a quick shower, letting the tension and grit of the day wash away and dissipate with her mood. She felt warm, light, but in the back of her mind she felt tension. She hated the feeling, that of worry.

She toweled off then looked at her reflection in the mirror. Was the tension starting to show on her face now? At almost 28, Blair was in a constant state of denial about her last two years of youth – as she'd called them. Thirty was just lurking around the corner. She shuttered.

She tapped under a firm chin, noting no sagging, yet. A smirk, then Blair moved to put on a simple cotton dress and comfortable shoes. She looked at the assortment of perfumes on her dressing table, and decided to pick something subtle. "Hmm, nothing too overwhelming." Dabbing a bit on her fingertips, she smoothed the fragrance into her cleavage and behind her ears. She smiled, enjoying the aroma. "Not bad."

Moving to the kitchen she grabbed a set of china and silverware, for two. She set the table that was in front of the large windows leading to her balcony. The view was simply spectacular at night. There were already two candles on the table, and with a few adjustments, everything was ready. "There."

Blair glanced at her cell phone. "Still no reply."

She had texted Jo over forty minutes ago. She noted that Jo had sent a clear message for her not to be so overbearing … but really... a simple question of: did you make it home safely? How hard was it to text a one word answer, yes or no?

Blair looked out over the expanse of the city. Her mind wandering to the events of the day… to what had happened this morning. Temporary insanity? She chuckled wistfully, Maybe… maybe not.

She had caught the looks Jo had given her throughout the day. They were subtle, yet more than a friendly inquiry, she deduced. There was something else… deeper. Blair wound a string of hair around her finger. Perhaps the attraction she felt for the stubborn woman had been reflected back in those beautiful green eyes. Perhaps.

Bair let out a frustrated sigh. How fair was it that Jo was out and open about her sexuality and… she sighed again. "I'm not being fair." She knew this to be true. Jo regarded her as a friend, colleague and now - business acquaintance. Nothing more.

Blair moved along the expanse of the windows in reflection. Do I even want more? She pursed her lips. Jo thinks I'm a man crazy socialite. She almost laughed at that. "She would be more than shocked at how I've come to figure things out."

Or would she? Blair thought.

They'd known each other through most of their adolescence. The competitive fighting, arguing and tension between them was almost tangible. And yet, Blair had always sensed a thread of something shared between them. Scary as it was to admit back then, she found herself examining their unique friendship quite a lot lately.

Especially after Jo had left for California five years ago.

The doorbell rang snapping Blair out of her musing. She strode over, a bit confused as to why Amanda would ring the bell when she had a key card. She opened it.

"Natalie?"

The reporter was sporting a wide grin and carrying a briefcase. Blair hiked a brow in question.

"Hi. Can I come in?" Natalie didn't wait for an answer and made her way into the penthouse. "I was in the neighborhood, and thought – this would be a great time to catch you in the moment."

She turned and faced Blair who was looking at her in confusion. "The moment?" Blair closed the door.

"You know. Candidly. For the exposé," Natalie clarified.

"I understand, but this isn't a good time," Blair said. She was starting to feel nervous, not quite sure what she'd say if Natalie was still there when Amanda came in. She'll text me when she's in the lobby. Blair remembered to tell Amanda to inform William when she had arrived. Just in case…

"Oh?" Natalie sat her briefcase down on the sofa and looked around the penthouse. "Expecting someone?"

She spied the table set up by the window and produced a cunning grin. "Paul perhaps?"

Blair internally rolled her eyes. Okay, go with it. "Actually yes," she smiled insincerely. "But I'm so exhausted, I'm afraid it's going to be a short night," Blair stated tightly.

The penthouse door abruptly burst open producing a slightly disheveled woman with her arms full of bags. "Blair, oh my God, William got called away from his post and you wouldn't believe what… um..." She drifted off noticing a guest standing in Blair's living room, who was smiling brightly at her.

Amanda recovered quickly, returning the smile. "Hello."

"Hi." Natalie watched as the woman turned an almost purple shade of red. Interesting. "Natalie Green. We met at the Villa Manzi Gallery a day ago?"

"Ah, yes, I remember. Blair's school friend."

Natalie nodded, then noticed red pedals peeking out from one of the bags. "Nice flowers."

Amanda inhaled suddenly, having realized the long stemmed roses were visible, "Oh, yes, I um…" she trailed off looking anxiously at Blair. "They're from Paul," she got out.

Nice save. Blair heaved a sigh of relief. "Y-yes. Paul." Blair moved to take them from her, throwing her a 'play along' look.

"He always sends flowers when he's going to be late," Blair said. She smelled them while taking them into the kitchen. "Thank you for bringing them up for him, Amanda. You saved poor William a trip," she shouted across the room. She found a glass vase and filled it with water; then arranged the bouquet into it.

"My pleasure. I guess I was in the right place at the right time," Amanda gave Blair a relieved gesture as she returned to the living room.

"I'll take those bags, Amanda. Thank you." Blair set them on the kitchen counter. "So nice of you to bring over dinner for Paul and me," she announced with flair.

"Not a problem," Amanda said succinctly, stuffing her hands in her pockets. She smiled at Natalie again.

Natalie looked between the two. "So," she clasped her hands together. "Ms. Palmero."

Amanda tilted her head at that. "Please. Call me Amanda."

"Amanda," Natalie began. "What brings you here?"

Amanda sputtered for a bit then, "Well, I—"

"I called her," Blair cut in. "I wanted to talk about that new artist, um…"

"Brown," Amanda supplied hastily.

"Yes. Brian Brown," Blair addressed Natalie. "He has a new exhibit at the gallery and I wanted to buy a few pieces. For the office," she finished.

"I think he would be a good fit, Blair," Amanda said. "He has many pieces with warm tans and browns… very earthy," she continued.

She turned her attention to Natalie. Enough is enough. "So, Ms. Green."

"Natalie, please," Natalie said. She was more than a little intrigued by the tension she sensed.

"Ah, yes. Natalie," Amanda smiled at that. "Are you interested in Brown as well?" She asked a little over enthusiastically.

"Actually, Natalie is doing an exposé on me," Blair cut in abruptly.

"Really… an exposé? How interesting." Grey eyes turned slowly to Natalie.

Natalie nodded. "Yes, well, actually, I'm trying to get a glimpse of Blair away from the office." A grin. "At home."

"I see." Amanda peeked at Blair, who shrugged. "Are you a writer?"

"Actually, I'm a reporter." Let's see how that settles in. She watched as Amanda made a surprised face. "For the New York Times." Natalie said with an air of confidence.

"The Times. You don't say," Amanda cracked a half smile at that.

"Yes, and we'll be doing a feature on the newly crowned president of Warner Textiles as soon as I get my story to the presses."

"Wonderful," Amanda drawled out, shifting her focus to Blair. "Blair?"

"Yes?"

"May I speak with you…" Amanda looked at the reporter, giving her a tight smile that reached her eyes. "In private?"

Natalie practically felt the temperature in the room change, but she kept her face unreadable – getting the hint. "Oh, I'll just leave the two of you for a moment." She turned and made her way to the balcony. "I've always loved the view from up here."

Amanda waited until the balcony door was shut tight. "You never told me your friend worked for the Times." She studied Blair, who was doing her best – what difference does that make - face.

"What difference does that make?"

Amanda waved a non-committal hand, "Nothing. None. I just…" She dramatically breathed a long breath of frustration. "I was hoping we could be alone this evening."

Blair looked into the sorrowful eyes. She really hadn't considered what Amanda was proposing. A quick dinner, sure, but anything else? She wasn't in the mood.

She made up her mind. She was dog tired, to tell the truth. The bombardment of visitors this evening was not something she was prepared for. "Actually, it's been a long, tiring day. I just want to eat something and crash," she answered honestly.

"Oh, I totally agree, Blair," Amanda inclined her head toward the balcony. Natalie was busy taking in the view.

She studied the woman in front of her, coming to a conclusion. "I was thinking we could cuddle a little tonight." She gave Blair what she deemed her best come hither expression, "Just me and you."

Blair felt the fingertips of the woman in front of her on her elbows, slightly, tenderly drawing her in. She wanted to giggle at the prodding. She found it a little bit endearing and caved at the tempting smile of her companion. "I'd like that," she said softly before sneaking a peek at Natalie.

"Good. We'll just have to tell Paul he isn't invited," Amanda joked, which produced a saucy laugh from Blair.

"Good save by the way," Blair said.

"I do aim to please," Amanda moved her hands to grab Blair's elbows, drawing her closer.

"Thank you for the flowers," Blair smiled, letting herself get drawn in.

They were within inches of each other. "I aim to please," Amanda said softly, noting brown eyes constantly checking to see if Natalie was watching. So let her, Blair. She moved to place a kiss on her forehead.

Blair took a quick step back, "Amanda, not here, please," Blair shot her a look before turning concerned eyes to the balcony.

Amanda dropped her hands. "Well, why don't we get rid of your little friend so we can be alone?" Her tone was agitated.

Blair took another step back, glancing at Natalie. "She's a very good friend of mine. I'll talk to her for a minute then she'll be on her way. Just give us a moment," Blair said.

Amanda crossed her arms over her chest. "Fine then." She watched as Blair went over to the balcony and opened the doors. Natalie was totally engrossed in the expanse of the skyline.

"Nat?" Blair walked over to her friend. The wind had stirred a bit, blowing a section of her hair across her face. She pulled it back as she took in the expanse of the city. It was warm, and she could smell a hint of jasmine that came from the small rooftop garden she had been growing. She had added tulips and geraniums to round out her collection.

"You know, Blair, you are so lucky. It's so tranquil up here," Natalie took in a calming lung full of air.

They both shared a moment admiring the scenery, and the lack of traffic noise.

"Yeah. I love coming out here just to think sometimes," Blair admitted, her voice tender.

Natalie turned, agreeing with her. "So. Are we set?" She took out a small recording device from her pocket and held it up.

Standard procedure. Blair knew it well. Her family had been subject to many articles and write-ups about them. This was no different. Natalie understood things were to be kept above board, and with only a few unknown gems about her life that she chose to reveal. "Sure."

They sat down on the patio furniture Blair had meticulously arranged. There were two recliners, and a table that seated four. They had decided to sit in two regular chairs facing each other.

"Look Nat, I'll give you a few minutes but I really am exhausted, and then Paul—" Blair reiterated.

"I totally understand," Natalie said, as she set her recorder on the wide arm of the chair. She looked into the living room seeing Amanda seated on the couch engrossed in her phone.

"Was Amanda leaving? Or…" Natalie asked.

Blair glanced at Amanda. "Oh," she laughed and waved a hand at Natalie. "No, um, she said she'd wait until we were done, then I'm going to look over few pictures of hers."

She smiled, then felt as though that wasn't sufficient enough. "Brown's work… you remember… for the office?" she stated, nervously clearing her throat. "It won't take that long, I'm sure."

Natalie looked at Blair, letting a few beats go by. "Suit yourself."

She tapped the record button, indicating she was starting their session, which lasted about a half hour. Natalie had asked her all the regular 'soft' questions. Then she went out on a limb and asked about her dating life since obtaining her J.S.D. from Langley College. Was that intimidating to prospective men? Was she as much a socialite as she was in college since she now had a full time corporate position? Did she want to get married anytime soon?

Blair had answered them all with poise and grace, which was what she was raised to do, and did effortlessly. Such was the case for keeping things close to the heart and out of the mainstream. She knew her family's business would be the first to be affected by any wrong answer.

Natalie turned off the recorder. "Okay, well, we'll stop here. I have quite a bit of information." She stood. "I'll just start working on this for a rough draft." She stuffed the recorder in her pants pocket. "I'll get going and let you enjoy your evening." She took one last view of the city before leaving the balcony.

Blair followed her into the living room. "And Natalie."

"Yes?" Natalie made her way to the couch where Amanda had been sitting. The woman was presently in the bathroom.

"Next time, call," Blair lifted an irritated brow. She knew Natalie was trying to expand her career by getting a good story, but she didn't want hers to turn into tabloid fodder.

"I get it, Blair. Now that you're president you're extremely busy and your time is not your own anymore." She picked up her briefcase, putting the strap on her shoulder.

"Something like that," Blair said as they made their way to the door.

Natalie turned. "You're still on the hook for the next Friday we book at Florenza's," she pointed at Blair. She was adamant about that. The last get together had Jo, but the previous two was only her and Tootie… she lived with Tootie.

"I'll try my best," Blair offered.

"Not good enough, Blair," Natalie stood by the door as Blair opened it. She stepped out into the lobby. "I'm glad Jo's back in town. The fact that the two of you are working together has brought you out of hiding," she said wryly.

Blair sighed. "I wasn't hiding, only very busy; and I'll see what I can do," Blair said sternly.

Natalie squinted at her vague friend. She noticed Amanda had entered the room. "Nice seeing you again, Amanda," Natalie announced to her.

"Likewise Natalie. Take care," Amanda waved at Natalie as her smile faltered.

Natalie turned her eyes to Blair. "I mean it, free up that Friday, you've missed at least three of them."

"I said I'll see what I can do," Blair replied, her voice tight.

A smirk. "Try harder. You know what? Try as hard as you did when you found the time to have dinner with Jo a couple of nights ago."

"That was business."

"Ok, fine then. Think of our get together as a business meeting," Natalie smiled slyly.

Smarty pants. Blair had to smile at that as she let the door slowly close. "Bye, Nat."

"Bye, Blair."

Blair was still smiling as she made her way to the kitchen where Amanda was pouring herself a glass of wine. She handed Blair a glass.

"Thank you." She took a much needed sip. "Well, finally." She took out the boxes of food and opened them. "I hope everything's not too cold."

Amanda leaned on the counter edge, watching as Blair moved to get their plates from the table. "I couldn't help overhearing. You had dinner with Ms. Polniaczek recently?"

"Yes. A business dinner." She snuck a peek at Amanda, "We do work together." Blair brought the plates over and started to put food on them; everything was still quite warm.

"It's just you never mentioned anything," Amanda took a sip, her eyes on Blair.

Blair paused. "Why should I?" She caught the resentful look Amanda threw at her. "Don't tell me you're jealous," Blair gave her a disparaging look as she brought their plates to the table. Amanda had already lit the candles.

"Should I be?"

Blair sat the plates on the table. "Amanda," she sat, draping a linen napkin over her lap. "Jo and I are friends. Good friends, nothing more."

Gray eyes regarded her dinner companion for a bit. She had noticed Blair's constant checking of her phone throughout the evening, and now the fact that it was sitting on the table beside her plate? She didn't quite know what to make of it. She grabbed her fork. "Okay."

Blair gave her a smile. Good. "Shall we eat before the food gets cold?"

A crooked smile. "Let's make this a nice, quiet evening. Just the two of us," Amanda raised a glass.

"I'm good with that," Blair smiled then clinked their glasses together.

---

JTI headquarters had, for the most part, shut down for the day – save one lone light that illuminated on the top floor. Eric's office.

Jo came through the door. She was dressed in sweats. "Don't you ever sleep?" She padded her way over to Eric's desk, and perched a hip on it; careful not to pop her stitches.

"What? Go home to an empty apartment?" He leaned back in his chair and yawned. "Too much to focus on here," he stated. "Besides this isn't my call."

"Really?" Jo lifted surprised eyes at that. "Who called us in then?" She checked her phone. It was ten thirty-two.

"Green." Eric had grabbed a pencil and started beating a rhythm on his desk. "Said she'd be here any minute."

Jo nodded. She shifted around trying to get comfortable on the flat, hard surface. "Any idea what this is about?"

Eric frowned a little. "No clue, really. She said she has valuable information. I told her to bring it here so we can evaluate whatever it is she has."

Both agents looked up as the office door was knocked on, then opened, revealing the slightly disheveled reporter. "Oh, hi guy's."

"Ms. Green have a seat, we've been waiting for you," Eric pointed to the chair in front of his desk.

Natalie sat, feeling relieved. She blew out a breath. "Thanks. You know I thought it was tough getting through security at Warner, you guys grill a person to death. I practically had to give blood before they'd let me through," she said agitatedly.

Jo smiled. She fully understood Natalie's dilemma. "Standard procedure after hours, expect it."

"What do you have for us?" Eric asked.

Natalie cleared her throat, then thought about how to begin. "Well, firstly, I went to see Blair under the guise of doing the exposé… only I actually was working on the exposé because Harris pretty much put the pinch on me to get it done on time, so you can imagine how much—"

"Nat?"

Natalie paused. She looked at Jo who gave her a prodding motion to basically 'get on with it. "Oh, yeah," she gave a sheepish smile. "Sorry. I tend to ramble when I'm stressed."

Natalie took a breath. "The reason I called you guys in is because while I was there at Blair's penthouse, Amanda comes in and—"

"Wait. Stop," Jo gave her quizzical look. "What do you mean comes in?"

"She just walks right in."

Eric smirked. "The key card?"

Natalie gave him a smile. "Correct."

Eric nodded, understanding. "Continue."

"She's got bags and boxes of food and flowers and at first I didn't know what to think."

"So they were going to have dinner together?" Jo figured out.

Natalie shook her head. "At first that's what I thought. But apparently Amanda was just being nice. You see Paul and Blair were having dinner and Amanda was just doing Paul a favor by picking up their food from the restaurant and bringing it over."

The room was silent for a moment as the two agents exchanged looks, mulling over the information.

"And the flowers?" Jo asked.

"Paul's. He sent them because, according to Blair, he always sends flowers when he's late," Natalie finished.

Jo bit the inside of her lip regarding her friend. She crossed her arms lightly over her chest. "So what's the big deal here, Nat?"

Blue eyes went large as Natalie looked between the two agents, then pursed her lips. Deciding. "It was all a lie," she said in a small voice.

"Proof of this, Ms. Green?" Eric sat up in his chair. He didn't like the tone of this whole scenario. He looked over at Jo, suspecting she felt the same way.

"Yeah." Natalie got up from her chair. She looked around the bland office. A chair, a desk and a file cabinet – save the picture of dogs playing poker. Nice touch. She focused back on her predicament, clasping her hands behind her back.

"It took me a while to reconcile this with myself. I drove around the block a few times, trying to make sense of everything. I actually stopped at a bar and had a drink," she chuckled bitterly, then paused looking at the two agents. "I don't drink." Natalie's voice wavered a bit. "I have to admit, I was more than a little surprised at what I found out."

Jo's face dropped. "What are you talking about, Nat?"

Natalie swallowed thickly. "Is it okay to talk in front of Agent Nelson?"

Jo's brows knit. "Of course." She hoped nothing was wrong with Blair. Natalie hadn't mentioned anything specific. She pulled out her personal cell phone from her pocket, noticing the battery was dead. Damn.

Jo looked at Natalie. "Nat, if this will help the case then, we need to hear it."

Natalie let out a long begrudging sigh. "This will probably blow the case wide open." And probably everything you've ever thought about Blair, Jo.

"What are you talking about?" Jo walked over to the reporter, eyeing her.

"You think you know a person. Then you hear something you wish you hadn't." She watched as Jo approached her, remaining silent for a moment.

"How bad is this, Nat?" she asked.

"I contemplated three alternatives," Natalie slid her eyes over to Eric, who was watching her with interest. "You guys pretty much have me stuck. I'm a reporter. My job was to get information for the exposé," she paused." And now, I'm an informant for the secret service."

Both Jo and Eric silently acknowledged the truth of that. "What's your other alternative?" Eric asked carefully.

Natalie worked her mouth for a second. "Going to prison for life." She stopped, then shook her head, "I said to myself, I'd rather do that than turn over this information. Then I realized, if I did turn it in, that would probably be my just punishment for having to live with what I've done… so I won't request and inducement."

She took out her cell phone, holding it up as exhibit 'A.'

Trouble. Jo eyed the device. She almost winced at the sight of Natalie's 'trap' phone, as she referred to it. I wonder what poor Blair doesn't realize she's done now.

"Play it, Ms. Green," Eric commanded.

Natalie's eyes snapped to his; uncertainty etched her face. "I-I don't know if I want to do this," she stammered, "God, I hate my job sometimes. I just stepped out onto the balcony, I didn't know! I didn't mean to…" she drifted off with an apologetic look.

Natalie's alarm reverberated with Jo and she put a hand on her shoulder. "It's okay, Nat. We'll deal with it," she gave the reporter what she hoped was a reassuring squeeze.

"For the sake of the case," Eric added.

"Right," Natalie regarded her phone, then tapped it - turning up the volume. She snuck a look at Jo, then turned it off. "I can't do this."

"Ms. Green, this is a federal case involving our client and a potential suspect. Federal law requires your cooperation. Need I remind you of your duty as an informant to—"

"I know!" Natalie held her hands up, frustration evident in her voice. "Alright?!"

She rubbed her forehead. "I Know!" Blue eyes angrily looked at the lead agent, who nodded at her, his face held a grim look.

"Nat," Jo sympathized, "whatever it is—"

"I hate this," Natalie admitted; an overwhelming unease was starting to consume her.

Jo put an arm around her shoulder. "Okay, okay, look, Nat. You have to trust us."

"Oh, Jo," she held Jo's hand on her shoulder. "I do trust you," she said softly. She suddenly felt so small, but determined to keep her composure. I honestly never thought it would come to this. Blair, please forgive me.

The room was silent for a while; it was getting late, and they just wanted to move forward with the case.

"Okay," Natalie finally said. She made up her mind and put the phone on Eric's desk before tapping play.

She turned, and then moved past Jo, pausing. "I'm so sorry," she said gently, then stood over by the door.

It played… all of it.

Natalie's voice announcing when she'd arrived at Blair's apartment. It was a typical reporters set up. They all heard when she got to the door and went into the apartment.

They listened, the voices were clear. The phone picked up movement well and they could make out who was talking. Jo smiled at Blair giving her 'I'm tired' spiel. She knew the woman had been through a tiring day. She completely sympathized with her.

Next came the part when Amanda came into the apartment. Both Eric and Jo leaned in when the dialogue between her and Blair became apparent. Eric raised a brow at Amanda's obvious cover up about the flowers. Her tone and cadence was that of a liar. He slid his eyes to Jo who stood still, completely focused on the conversation.

It would only be a short moment more before Natalie would feel like leaving the office… the part where she had excused herself from Blair's living room and gone to the balcony. She could feel her heart beating hard as she kept her eyes on Jo. Please understand.

Blair and Amanda's private conversation had started. At first Jo had to blink at their exchange. She was having trouble understanding why Amanda would want to be alone with Blair.

I was thinking we could cuddle a little tonight… just me and you. Jo bristled at that.

…I'd like that.

I aim to please…

…Thank you for the flowers…

…Amanda not here, please—

Jo hovered her finger over the phone, then tapped off the conversation. She was silent for a long moment; the office was quiet and bleak. No one said a word. She heaved a lungful of air, then inhaled.

"Agent," Eric remained still, almost holding his breath. He looked to Natalie across the room. She was facing the wall. He shifted his eyes back to Jo. "Agent Polniaczek."

Jo held up a hand to stop him from asking any questions. Her eyes were closed, "Don't… I."

Eric saw the pained look on Jo's face before she opened her eyes, then licked her lips. She stiffly faced him. "I'm, uh…" she started to back away, then turned. She did that a little too quickly and grunted as a jab of pain went to her wound. "I'm just going to… uh..." Jo pointed to the door.

Natalie faced her once she got to the door. "Jo, please," blue eyes held tears in them. "I-I didn't know what—"

Jo shook her head. Her lips were tight. "Don't say anything," her voice broke. She made her way out of the office without so much as a glance backward.

Natalie opened her mouth to call after her.

"Let her go," Eric had moved to stand beside her.

"She's my friend," Natalie could feel her lips quivering. She wanted to curl up into a ball and just sleep for days.

"She's a trained agent."

Natalie faced Eric. "You don't understand…you couldn't possibly understand!" her voice rose.

Eric closed his office door. He stuck his hands in his pockets as he walked across the room. His head was hung. "She's an agent of the secret service, Ms. Green. She's trained to handle these kinds of situations."

"Not this situation!" Natalie was steadfast. She walked up to Eric and waited until he met her gaze. "Jo and Blair have been best friends for a long time. They've been through a lot together. I—"

Natalie looked around, focusing on nothing, realizing. "It's never going to be the same."

---

The crisp night air held many secrets. In the darkness one could almost hide, escape, blend in… disappear. The Yellow Cab had been parked at the curb for ten minutes, the motor running.

"Where to lady?" the driver raised his gravely voice, looking over the half drawn partition, as he addressed the slumped figure in the back seat. Jo sighed. She felt… numb all over. Her head was bent down as an overbearing longing to go somewhere, anywhere took over... She sniffed, finally looking up and acknowledging the driver.

"Bronx."

The car jerked forward, making its way into traffic. With half lidded eyes, Jo stared out of the window, her head resting on the back seat - bobbing with each turn and bump. Her eyes barely focused as the streetlights and business lights flew by. She finally closed them to get at least a brief reprieve as the car sped up, making sharp turns as it carried her the hell out of Manhattan.

---

As always, love all the reviews. There have been a lot of questions, and I hope to answer them in the upcoming chapters... please stay tuned!