Andy knew it was him now, the I miss you Balloons. He was playing with her, teasing her with a here I am, come and get me. The company that delivered had cooperated fully. He had come right into the store and personally picked them out.
The fuzzy camera never had got a good view and he knew exactly what spots to pick to be forever out of the frame. But she knew it was him when he had paid the clerk the missing index finger and little finger. He had held them right up for the perfect frame and just in case she missed that the credit card he had paid with was her mother's name. He was baiting her.
The address had been an industrial lot, nothing there. Except a single teddy bear sitting with a note. 'Andy, Can't wait to see you soon.'
She shook her head, looking out of the conservatory doors, at Miri and the girls, she had to forget him forget about the shadows he was bringing up. She was ready for him, she wasn't the same little girl he had terrorised. Jude had trained her well. She had dialled him the moment she had received the second delivery of Mylar balloons.
She had gone to a lot of trouble to keep her loved ones from getting hurt.
So far dating Miranda without Page Six getting wind of it was memorable and adventurous, Roy was an excellent decoy driver. Both of them tried not to break plans, choosing small intimate places for dinner dates. Often staying overnight at Andy's place, Miranda had to have Roy drive Aitana with the book to Andy's address along with her dry cleaning and shoes.
Miranda wanted to make up for lost time together lost to pride, mainly hers, woke up one Saturday late morning finding Andy absent not in bed where she belonged, wrapping a robe around herself. Calling out for Andy who was on her iPod, sculpturing in an oversized shirt. Leaning against the doorway. Hands covered over Andy's eyes.
Removing her earbuds. Blaring volume of Far Away by Nickelback looping to Safety Suit song.
''Hi.'' Lips pressed silkily to the back of her neck. Turned into her lap, lips pulled away teasing Andy by standing, letting the robe drop to her ankles. ''Andrea you promised to use your lovely talented fingers to work on my bust.''
''Miri you know how I like working devotedly on your bust.'' Brought to Andy naked.
Roused by evening, hot tangled up in skin and long limbs pressed to Andy naked and slickened. Kissing her shoulder blade, nipping it with a soft bite. ''That night in Paris I wanted you so much like this Andy. If only we'd… '' Softly soothed. ''We're here now. Together.'' Propped up on her elbows Andy's dark eyes sparkled. ''You just called me Andy!'' Miranda denied this. Pinned gently, pressing her lean pelvis into her. ''You did.''
Silver lock brushed aside. ''Slip of the tongue.'' Andy smirked. ''I happen to adore any slip of your tongue Ms Priestly.'' Waggling her brows suggestively. Bursting out laughing. Andy loved her laugh.
One evening setting aside her glasses and the revered Runway tome, leant forward blue eyes sparkling. ''When's your birthday? '' Andy's mouth quirked. '' August, I don't really like my birthday much.''
''Are your parents close to you.'' Andy shrugged. ''Somewhat. I don't see them often.''
Miranda asked her their names.
Andy told her. '' Katherine and Richard Sachs.''
''Maybe you'd like to invite them for the holidays. I could meet them.'' Brought her arms around Andy's waist, pulled to. Andy shook her head. ''Nope. Not a good idea.''
Miranda hid hurt. ''What were you like younger? Did you grow up in Ohio?''
Andy shrugged. ''When I was 7, I was brought there, you've seen my resume. Why do you want to know so much?''
''Andrea I'm trying to establish a shred of your life here. Bond. Who was Chris?''
''Chris?'' Had she spoken in her sleep?
''He said your Chris's. He saw the polaroid's'.'' Miranda wondered what he meant by that.
Andy stilled, knew who he was. The Artist. ''Chris, Christiane is my mom.''
Miranda was confused. ''Your mother? But you said your Mom's name is Katherine.''
Was Andy adopted? '' Will I be allowed to meet her or not.'' Snide tone. Was it because she was older.
''You can't.'' Andy stated tersely.
''Why not?'' Pushing for a response.
''Because she's dead.''
''Oh Andrea. When?''
'' When I was younger.'' Andy looked away. ''Drop it. Just let it go, all right. There's some things that are none of your business or concern Miri.''
''None of my business, forgive me for just wanting for you to tell me something about you, one thing what you were like little or your family and you close off. I'm calling Roy.''
''Come on Miranda don't be like that. It's midnight. Roy's home.''
First and only argument. Andy slept on the couch, tried to make up with her the next morning as she dressed in a crisp silk blouse and slit skirt. Briskly ignored by Miri who slipped on her stilettos. Told hotly will not be seeing her tonight. Had a magazine to run. Roy saw for two days Andy Sachs was in the dog house.
Heard from Aitana her delivery of chocolates had been trashed, sent flowers given to an in shock and awe clacker to bin.
Andy ceded first.
Met Miranda on the doorstep of her townhouse in the rain. ''Here you want to know me.'' Handed a small box with an album in it. Almost left her standing on the doorstep.
''Andréa come back, it's pouring outside, come inside please.'' Both stepped inside.
Drying off. Given an Egyptian cotton towel, Miranda knew she was being petty but Andy had flown off the handle, telling her none of her business stung her…
Lit a fireplace on this rainy evening. Illuminated in firelight. ''Go on open it, you want to know me so much.''
Miranda opened it.
''That's me and my Mom in the Kabylie mountains she taught English there and in Tanzania and Mali, there we are in Kuwait and Bahrain. That's my dog Java when we came back to the States and there's Jude who you were so jealous about, he's my godfather. We travelled a lot, I don't have any more pictures because I just don't. Happy.''
Defensive. ''This isn't easy for me, letting someone in.'' Andy eyes held her blue ones, ''you have to promise to be patient with me.''
''Why. Tell me?'' Met pained brown eyes. ''Please Andy tell me.'' Wanted to be confided in. Ran her fingers through Andy's dark hair, saw the tears.
''Because I caused my Mom's death.''
After Andy's confession, was just held.
She hoped The Teacher hadn't figured out who she was close to, who she loved now, Jude had told her to walk away. But she couldn't walk away from Miranda. Never again.
Grabbed from behind, arms encircled Miri's waist brought into her lap, Andy seemed distant a moment ago, Miranda never usually felt delicious goose bumps from anyone's kiss except from Andy's mouth pressed to her shoulder blade, she had to go soon. Andy spent Sunday having brunch with her and Cass and Car who saw it instantly. They were together. A couple. Car declared. ''Took you both long enough.''
Her daughters knew. Apparently had seen it all along. So much for keeping secrets from those two.
Liat smirked at her clever granddaughters'.
Told they both had heaps of UST, unresolved sexual tension between them, and Andy probably never pursued their Mom because of being her assistant. Making less money and being terrified of their Mom.
Very much like Miranda, the twins noticed everything. Almost made Andy choke on her drink from Car's words. ''Will you move in?'' That question hung in the air this Monday morning. Four pairs of bright blue eyes stared at her.
Miranda didn't throw a lifeline of mercy to Cass and Car's mild interrogation on Andy's intentions.
''We're dating. Taking it slow.'' Looking for help from Miranda. An unsympathetic silver brow rose at Andy's word slow.
''Why.'' Cassidy asked. Andy sputtered out. ''Cuz…'' A Mexican cartel interrogation was easier than being questioned by the girls.
Cass gave Andy advice. '' We're not ten, we're fifteen Andy we know Mom spent the night with you again in the guest bedroom and it wasn't playing Xbox in bed. Will you be sleeping over a lot?''
Andy had a hunch the twins wouldn't miss Miranda and her playing musical beds.
Car reasoned Andy's sleeping over. ''More economical if you stayed forever, you'd be a better alarm then Patricia. Just don't be naked around the house. Please.'' Cass adding ''we don't want to be traumatised.''
Miranda's turn to choke. Andy gave her a look at Dalton educated. Economical huh. Great Andy was an ADT. Liat added wryly. ''Imagine no more sneaking from room to room.''
''But you are serious about our Mom?'' Cass questioned Andy. Blue eyes looking at her intensely.
''Yes I love her.'' Held Miranda's eyes warmly. ''I think I'll stick around and I am moving in.'' Her mind made up she could still protect them, she would just be closer.
''Tonight.''
Hadn't told any them it was her birthday today. Andy couldn't think of a better present to herself.
Miranda stopped sipping her coffee. Her eyes widening with her smile. She had been asking Andy for weeks. 'I'll get some keys cut today.'
Andy put her cup in the sink navigating the drooling and still bandaged Patricia. ''No need, I still have keys from the protection duty.'' Miranda leaned forward kissing Andrea's cheeks, ''and when were you planning to return them?''
'Never.' Andrea swiped another buttered piece of toast from Cass's plate kissing the girls goodbye as she left. 'Bye Reds.'' Teased both. ''When I move home tonight I'll have boxes and bags look out I expect help. I'll need haulers.'' Andy balked, told for fifty bucks each, they were her movers. Miranda scolded them. '' You both will help freely.'' Groaned. ''Mom.''
Andy winked she'd tip them with a few ITunes cards in compensation.
Kissing Miranda goodbye. ''I will see you tonight.'' Given a squeeze.
Andy being a cop scared the hell out of Miranda. Andy stated a lot of bad people out there. It was her job.
''See you when you get home. Be safe.'' Andy held blue eyes softly. ''Always.''
Andy knew Miranda would be having a long day. Climbed into bed with Andy last night after she'd gone over the Book. Slept against her in the cramped guest bed. It would be nice to sleep next to her tonight, be beside Miri permanently. Beat Stephen finding Andy brewing fresh coffee at 6am for her dosing dragoness and leaving before Roy arrived. Stephen had the same problem rousing sleeping beauty Nigel.
Andy left, rushing down the pretty townhouse steps. 'Home' the word couldn't help make her smile from ear to ear.
Andy Sachs Precinct
Looking at the business card left for her at her precinct. Andy frowned she'd never heard of this Department of Government before. Tracing the embossed logo. No message or follow up. Why her?
Tucking it into her back pocket. Smiled and waved at the visiting children for school trip to the Precinct. Andy had to run across the street to Vinay's convenience store. Buy something yummy for Dingo since she was in such a buoyant mood.
Convince him with said treat to do her filing for her as a huge favour hell she'd throw in Knicks tickets if he'd cover so she could head home and sort out her apartment. Put in papers for furlough and take her holiday leave. Wanted to spend time with Miranda. Might take them to meet Jude.
The Teacher brushed shoulders with Sachs. Smirking, Andy hadn't recognised him. Pulled at his faded NY Yankees baseball cap at her. She even smiled at him. Not knowing. That was the best part. Priceless. Unrecognizable even to his victim once. Anonymous.
Watched Sachs these last few weeks, her pattern, amused as she stood in a vacant lot. Biding time, priming her for being unguarded in the perfect moment.
Left a little surprise for Sachs. A little belated hello again. Pa always told him not play with fire. Set the Go Pro camera to record what was timed. Tick. Tick. Sachs was about to have a terrible Monday morning.
Shame, ball is headed your way Sachs. Touchdown.
It was the size of four toothpaste tubes left. The IEDs.
The Teacher enjoyed freelance work and it got his hands on perks from groups on watch lists and SITE like this little darling, his new toy made by a brutal anti-American group in the headlines, he had wanted to try it out. Willing to work with the infidel just this once.
Now stuck with babysitting these four babies no wussies who all wanted death. Entered the States on student visas, The Teacher chided Homeland Security was lax and he sure as hell was no babysitter. If they fucked this up he'd arrange the meeting to heaven.
The Teacher exhaled, a step closer to Nevis soon his new Caribbean home. Deserved it. Nice to just lie back on soft sand in warm azure waters. Time to start putting people in the ground. The Teacher shrugged nonchalantly some people live, some people die.
The Teacher agreed never buy a product you don't try out first. Could be a dud or a blast. As the first one went off. He smiled. It was nice to see quality still mattered. The Teacher enjoyed carnage as the screams began. He loved the smell of burnt flesh and fear in the morning.
Runway Offices
Emily never made personal phone calls at Runway but she was today. Worried at the breaking news on her computer, an unidentified explosion in front of a police station. Numerous injuries and reports of deaths. Dialling someone who'd grown to matter to her.
He'd walked her home from the fashion show attack, even fed her Siamese cat. '' Mrs Meer's.'' As she'd been in shock. He was thoughtful, quite sweet and a hunk even if he knew Sachs well. Taken her out last Saturday to try Bachata dancing.
''Dom, pick up.'' His line went straight to voicemail.
She looked up to Miranda's pale face, who had been watching the screen.
''We have breaking news…some type of explosive device has gone off, numerous fatalities and heavily armed shooters are shooting at random even wounded.'' Watching live from news helicopters broadcasting.
Miranda first thought. Andy. That was her precinct.
Andy Sachs Precinct
Carried from the blowback, slammed into a car, Andy weaved unsteadily to her feet, dazed, clutching her ear, a buzzing and ringing in them, Andy had been lucky to be alive, as she saw the four shooters.
Andy saw their black headbands like Mumbai and Westgate here in the downtown financial district. Flanking in military formation, paramilitary trained with backpacks and AR 15s.
The Teacher watched on his IPad Air to his Go Pro linked to Wi-Fi. Come on little Andy prove to me your Chris's little girl.
''Come on baby girl don't disappoint me.''
Ducking her head down, Andy saw one shoot indiscriminately, this shooter couldn't be more than eighteen, tackled him from behind as he was away from the others, crashing into a glass store window, struggling to get free from Andy. Felt his Kevlar vest, kicked the AR away from him. Both cut from glass shards, winded by Andy bounding into him at full force. Aiming her gun.
''Hands.''
Spat at as she cuffed him. Andy hated spitters.
The Teacher shook his head disgusted at Andy's decency. She was playing by rules, rules of convention. Rules not followed. No sugar this is unconventional warfare, you noose an animal who bites you, you bite it back and execute. Blow its head off. He practically shouted at the mini screen. ''Kill him, I know you want to.''
Damn Jude, he'd taken the wildfire out of her. Clean ruined her. Extinguished and doused and took that darkness out of Andy, tempered it. Damn near domesticated. Less of that lethal DNA inside her The Teacher admired, Jude had bottled up all her darkness all the rage. So glad he was good at lighting matches. Like kerosene. Light it up. Incinerate.
He radioed his new 'friends' letting them know they had an armed cop holding their pal.
Heads up baby girl. Sachs up next. The baby bird's gotta leave the nest some time and little Andy it was time to cut your teeth.
Andy borrowed his snug Kevlar, rifling through his backpack. The Teacher praised, good conserve and reserve. Andy took an extra clip. Now you're using your head girl.
His eyes took in on his other monitoring of #2, 3 & 4 of his little chess pieces. This was just about to get interesting.
Dom shot at one. Trapped he'd been struck and hit in the shoulder, bleeding. The shooter made to aim up close.
A Head shot from a recoiled gun.
Dom never looked more relieved to see his ex-partner. Andy saw it, Dom bleeding, rushing over, taking off and pressing her jacket to it.
''Hang in there Dom…you're going be okay'' Dom grimaced, sputtering blood from the wound. ''I have to be, I'm taking Emily out ballroom dancing.''
Under less serious circumstances Andy would have found it hysterical. Ballroom dancing. Dating Emily Charlton. Em with Dingo. Good grief he'd have his hands full with that redhead. ''Hang on to that. I'm going to get help.'' Getting his blood on her hands.
Saw them mowing down the school trip, Andy saw one terrorist taken down by a sniper, scanned the area for the sniper, saw them concealed. Not the police, SWAT didn't shoot that well.
The Teacher blinked. They're here. Ruining a perfectly good homecoming and reunion. Typical party crashers. How rude, his Mama always hated ill manners.
The Teacher saw the one shooter Andy had left alive and handcuffed. Time to step on this one's neck. Couldn't leave a bitching little chismoso. Gripping a La Loupe, twining it.
The other attacker took a hostage.
He had a kid.
Ran to the subway. Chased by a sprinting Andy, feeling the vibration and air of the tunnel, as Andy pushed passed pedestrians. ''Get down.''
Andy held her gun in front of herself, he defiantly held the child in front of himself as a shield. Very big and brave use a child. Pressing the muzzle to her temple.
''Put her down. You put her down very gently.'' Andy's eyes never leaving his gleaming zealot ones.
Talking to the little girl. ''Hey I'm Andy…'' Andy read her name tag. '' Hey Dakota this will be over very soon. I promise you. '' She was seven. Shaking against him. Andy vowed this little girl wasn't dying today.
''Just close your eyes hun.'' Andy saw she did that. Good.
Andy took the shot. Lunging forward to the little girl, gathered to her.
Three people ran forward at her. ''NCIS.''
Runway Offices
Had watched with her heart in her mouth, dialled again it went to Andy's voice mail. Nigel tried to reassure at the looping story on Channel 9 that it did not show someone who resembled Andy. Didn't want to admit it to Miranda but it did look like Andy lying there.
Sure it was Andy hurt or dead.
Miranda pressed at her phone ringing, Cass and Car, tapped receive call, both frantic. They'd seen the news.
Aitana's phone rang. Answering it.
''I have to get to the hospital. It's bad, my brother he's been shot.''
Miranda nodded, had Roy take them. Growing more worried as Roy drove them that Andy's phone read out of service.
NCIS Safe house Downtown NYC
G, Kensi and Deeks observed Detective Sachs through cameras, seated in the holding room. What did Hetty want with her? A civilian. In Deeks opinion a fine cop, dark hair, long legs and hot. Kensi gave him a look at his admiring words. ''Kensi what?''
''Deeks.'' Even after their mutual acknowledgement of their thing and Afghanistan, Deeks still knew how to make Kensi Blye jealous.
Andy didn't have her gun, her badge or id. Or her phone, Miranda would be frantic. Where the hell was she? Brought here by NCIS. Glancing at her watch, she'd been here since mid-morning.
What she did still have was Dom's blood on her hands. Wiping at them. Hadn't had this much blood on her since…felt it slick on her palms. Curling her fingers.
The locked door opened.
''Hello Andrea. We meet again.''
Set down a small toy soldier near Andy.
''You.'' Andy remembered her. Jude's friend.
Hetty Lange head of Office of Special Protects NCIS smiled, still saw a precocious seven year old in that chair. Ghostly resemblance of Chris. Half expected Chris's warm moniker The Duchess of deception.
''You saved that child, your mother would have been proud.'' Andy swallowed her lump in her throat. Recalling vividly.
''You knew my mom. Came to my house the Christmas before when we were hiding. Your name was Sylvia, you brought me to The Sachs house that day, told me this was my new life.''
''Yes that's right. Your mother was an Outcome Agent, an exceptional operative.'' Hetty placed a file from under her arm to Andy. Indicated to open it.
Andy did so trembling. Had always wanted to know. Have answers.
''It's time you know your Mom.'' Hetty sat down across from Andy Sachs.
Flicking through typed dossier and handwritten field reports and photos, Cultural Support and SAD, Special Activities Division a Paramilitary Operations Officer. Apt at asymmetric warfare and pseudo operations and counter insurgency. Her cover was teaching and governess work in the Persian Gulf.
Hetty had removed the crime scene and morgue photos out of decency. Andy had seen the body, been next to it when found by Jude.
Knew it wasn't a home invasion then. Clearing her throat. ''The men who killed my mother. Why? I need to know who they were, their names.'' Needed to know, deserved that.
''Patience. All in good time Dt. Sachs.''
Hetty indicated her other folder, given access to classified information
Hetty frowned. '' First and foremost is this a path you want to step on Andy?''
Hetty looked at Andy squarely. ''Before I tell you their names I need you to understand once you embark on this journey, there is no point of return. Certain relationships must be severed or they become liabilities in emotional attachment.''
''This contains all your answers. At a cost.''
Andy brows furrowed. Dawning on her. Meant Miranda. No. Not giving her up. Pushed the file away.
Hetty was impressed, the information dangled in front of Sachs, and names she wanted and yet chose love.
Had Christiane's heart. Seeped her goodness.
''I've been watching you for quite some time Andrea, I will give you 24 hours to think on it and come to a decision.'' Andy shook her head. Reached one already. Walking away. Miranda was worth more. Much more. Hetty respected Andy's conviction.
''Andrea empty your back pockets.'' Andy did so.
Hetty wrote her number on the card she'd left at the Precinct for Andy. ''If you change your mind at any time. Reach me on this number.''
Something metal was pressed into Andy's palm, a boxed star and a coin with a Latin inscription of transins adiuva nos, meant I go overseas to give help.
Hetty clasped Andy's hand warmly. ''Think of me as a Gatekeeper.''
Free to go.
Lifting a hood off of Andy Sachs who was left on the corner of Lexington. Her phone now worked.
G asked Hetty. ''We surveilling Sachs?'' Curious how Sachs fit in with le Tenia and also Mr Joshua aka as The Teacher.
Hetty looked at G firmly. ''Sachs is one of ours. Mr Callen.''
Miranda's Townhouse
Tried the key. Andy grumbled so much for moving in today. Arms flung around her. ''Miranda.''
Smoothing back her silvery hair. ''Hey it's okay I'm alive and here.'' Felt Miri shaking against her. ''I thought you were…you didn't answer your phone.'' Andy had been missing for hours.
Taking in Andy's condition. Looked queasy at blood. ''It's not mine.'' The blood is Dom's and the two terrorists. Still splattered like speckles on her face and v t-shirt.
''Andrea you can barely stand.'' It was the shock. Held by Miri. Went upstairs. ''Have to help me.''
Undressed lovingly and cleaned up by Miranda's ministrations. Andy was refreshed.
The twins ordered pizza, Andy insisted she was fine again. Indicating to choose any film not action. Settled on a romcom.
Tomorrow she'd visit Dom, heard Emily was staying all night at the hospital with him, Miranda sent over via Roy dinner for her and a few essentials. Andy decided next morning she'd go bright and early to her apartment and pack it up for their new life together. See her landlord, didn't care if she lost her deposit.
Liat had noticed the three items in Andy's jeans pocket. Was going to wash and salvage her garments too much blood. Liat traced the card.
Read it. Henrietta Lange, Operations Manager, Office of Special Projects, NCIS. Liat knew a Henrietta once who went by Hens and Hetty.
Andy had left an overnight bag she'd changed into yoga pants and a cotton t-shirt, barefoot on smooth tiles as doorbell rang. Grabbing her wallet.
Greeted. Cass and Car ordered enough for The NY Giants team. 58 bucks. The delivery boy thanked her for the tip, Andy grumbled setting down the bags and gourmet pizza box.
''Your phone. '' Andy shook her head. ''That's not my phone.''
The delivery boy looked confused. ''I think it is.'' Shown a photo of herself on the screensaver.
The delivery boy had seen it on the wall. Had other deliveries to make tonight.
It was left for her. Andy knew that.
Scrolling on it to photos of her and Miranda, rotated to when she was a child with her lab, up to now.
Ringing. Andy pressed Accept.
''Hello again Andy. You've grown. Remember me?''
His gravelly voice prickled her spine. Frozen in recognition, a shiver of remembrance, her heart racing. Hadn't heard it since she was seven years old. Master at getting inside her head. His voice sent her into a tailspin of fear like crawling underneath her skin. Slithering. Andy thought she was ready for him. Wasn't.
The Teacher bid Andy a Happy Birthday.
''Look at all the cake and presents all for you. Remember that. Balloons did you enjoy those and fireworks you used to like them, I went to a lot of trouble, some gratitude would be appreciated here Princess.'' Testy.
''Andy.'' Cassidy called.
''Get back inside.'' Harshly barked at. Looked very upset at Andy but went inside.
Shutting the door on the steps. ''Who's that? Is that Car, nope its Cass, she's sure pretty, so's the spare, love the horse sweater. What's that name they're called by Miri? Bobbsey's. Cute.''
Andy blood ran ice. He'd been listening or paying someone to listen.
''Easy little one you'll have an aneurysm.'' The Teacher was close by, watching. Only saw parked tinted cars on this upscale neighbourhood. Scanning each vehicle for him.
''Are you trying to find me? Oh Andy hide and seek was always my favourite too. Olly olly oxen free Andy, guess what you're it.'' Barking out a deep rumbling laugh.
''Sugar we haven't played in a long time let's play.''
''So little one what am I going to do with you? Been ages. I missed ya. I always thought what happened to Chris's little girl. Breaks my heart.'' Andy was swallowing hard.
'' Now Andy my girl, enough recollecting have you ever heard of counting coup.'' Andy didn't answer.
''I asked you a question young lady.''
''No.''
''Counting coup is when a warrior brave would touch the first person in battle to die without detection. Which one do I reach out to? Which one dies Andy.''
Lining up his optical sight. ''Tough decision which one's head blown off would break you. Will it be Bobbsey 1 or Bobbsey 2, these decisions gotta be someone in my scope, how about Liat she's old or no her.''
''She's stunning. My compliments. Miranda or you like to call her Miri. Am I right Andy? Would you miss her? Oh you would.''
''I've heard it. When she moans your name out.'' The Teacher ear bone mike crackled. Andy still couldn't find him. Trying to find a vantage point. Where was he? The homes across the street were dark, Andy couldn't find him.
''Peeling down her panties, wet, I wonder what she'd taste like, bet she's sweet…mmm velvety and smooth.''
Andy mouth hardened at his vulgar words. He did not talk about Miranda like that to her. Not to her.
''Stay the fuck away from her.'' Andy hissed.
''Now there you go again back talking. Kiddo.'' The Teacher warned. ''Didn't your Mama ever teach you not to antagonise a man with a big…sniper rifle. That's right she didn't get to teach much. Did she. I suppose I'll have to school you. Give you an education of not to push my buttons. Consequences happen, bad ones.''
The Teacher. '' Look at your phone.''
Andy looked down at her phone, from the scope saw the red spot on Miranda through the window from his live viewpoint. ''Here's the first, will I, won't I. It's up to you, your move Andy make me stop.''
Andy gasped at the red spot had moved to her forehead. ''No. I…please you own me. Always have.'' Whimpering out. ''I'm begging you please don't hurt her…them. Hurt me instead.''
''What was that you said, I own you. Is that what I just heard? Andy Sachs belongs to me.''
''Yes.'' Andy sunk to her knees in despair. The sniper rifle shot. Hitting a light bulb silently with Andy's heart in her mouth.
''Come now deep breaths pull yourself together sugar, shake it off. Just having some fun with you.''
The Teacher smirked at least Sachs hadn't wet herself like last time.
''Now we understand each other, Miranda is yours but here's the crux, you my dear our mine. How are we going to ensure our future together?''
''Simple, by you doing a gesture of goodwill. Give her up because if you don't I'll make gravy out of them. I'll send them to their DA daddy piece by piece and I'll let you find Miranda after I've tasted her.''
Andy closed her eyes. Pressing her lips together. He'd won. ''Why are you doing this?''
The Teacher shrugged. ''Because I can.''
''You are sick and twisted.''
''Yes I am Andy, but we'll get along when I'm inside you again. I want you to go and work for Hetty Lange and in return Priestly lives. I am a reasonable man. Because I am so generous the whole little family can live, let them carry on living their safe content lives.''
''No. You're very matter is killing. That's not it.'' Andy's mouth hardened.
''You need something.''
''True, but I give you my word no harm to them and Andy honey I've never gone back on my word. Class dismissed.''
Andy agreed. Never be the same. Be a traitor
Couldn't go inside just yet. Dialling Hetty. ''About that offer of yours I accept.''
Looked at Miranda through the glass. Had to do this.
The Teacher's words to Andy, Miranda Priestly is your past. I am your future.
Everyone was asleep, Andy memorised their last night in bed together every stroke and caress, watching Miranda in sleep, detangled herself from her warm skin, Andy quietly dressed and began packing her things, Goodbye Miranda. For good.
Stepping down onto the front foyer from soft carpeted steps.
Liat stood. ''Andy why are you amscraying in the middle of night?''
Andy didn't turn ''I have to leave.''
''Tell Miri I'm sorry. Goodbye.''
Liat looked worried. ''Don't you have any words? An explanation to my daughter, something more to say to her. A reason.''
''Tell her there was no us. Be happy without me.'' Placing her house key on the front table.
Liat frowned something had happened tonight. ''You don't mean that. What has happened?''
''I just can't be here anymore. We can't be together.''
Called after by Liat. Andy Sachs didn't turn back and began to walk away.
That had been twelve months ago.
Miranda pinched her patrician nose, pouring over shots at a Gala party four nights ago in LA she'd attended, stopping on one, her heart clenched, Andrea was in the photograph of attendees. It was without a doubt her.
Pangs. She did not love Andy Sachs not anymore, leaving her that late evening. Not even having the decency or bravery to talk about it. Not Sachs. Just run away. Left again. Had cold feet.
Couldn't even face her.
Miranda had been upset by Andy's sudden silent selfish departure. In that week she'd tried phoning Andrea to talk. Just talk. Left voice mails. First ones promising she'd fix or make up for whatever she'd done. Tried again over and over for weeks not one call back from Andy. Others were from The Dragon Lady.
The Ice Queen came over to her apartment that same day. Numb, told Andy had moved. At a loss to where, called Andy's work. To be told by phone, Ms Priestly, Detective Sachs is no longer with the NYPD. Quit her job.
Told to be happy without her, Miranda was elated every day without Andy Sachs. Cut ties even with Dom, Emily's fiancé and Miranda's new assistant Aitana. Dom was disgusted with his once friend's behaviour to Miranda.
Nigel stepped into his Editor's office. Peering at the photos, was that Andy on some date's arm. It was. Sure it was Six. Frowning she looked great. Sensational. In a Roberto Cavalli red dress she rivalled Maggie Q.
Trying to cover it up with his hand, non-discretely.
''Nigel I saw her.'' Nigel knew that tone. It was I don't want to talk about it or I will slash your department budget.
Oh boy she'd seen Six. Nigel wondered why Andy just left. Broke Miranda's heart. It wasn't like Six. He'd been so wrong thinking Andy would never hurt Miranda.
''Miranda are you meeting the girls in Boston?''
''Yes, I am we're going to enjoy some sightseeing and holiday shopping together.'' Her face relaxing at the mention of her twins. It would be Christmas in 4 weeks.
Last weekend meant to phone two locals who wanted to show them Boston.
Miranda swivelled in her chair, pressing her IPhone to contacts, tapped by accident another app. Nigel saw photos of Andy Sachs. Looked both so happy like nothing would break them apart. Miranda recalling that shot of Andy in jean shorts, gardening, planting bulbs covered in soil, twins turned the hose on her.
Adjusting his horn rimmed glasses, kindly spoke. ''I'm sure there's a good reason Miranda.''
Nigel tried to broach maybe Andy had been affected by the attack at her Precinct. PTSD.
Told thickly. ''Yes well if you happen to run into Six do ask her what was it. I'd love to know.''
Nigel knew when to leave The Ice Queen well alone.
Crossing in red ink the image of Andy smiling at the camera. At least she looked alive and happy.
NCIS
Sachs was a lot like G, closed off and guarded. She had seen Miranda at the Gala, hadn't seen Miri in ten months. Only in Runway's Letter from the Editor.
Had listened to every message left for her. Heard in Miri's voice, the hurt and pain she'd caused that. Had read in Page Six, Stephen and Miranda separated.
Stopped herself from calling so many times, reminding herself she was one step closer to her goal. Even if the price was Miranda hating her. Miranda was safe, the girls were safe.
Learned to live without Miri for months now was hard.
Reorganizing her capabilities kit. To Hetty's delight, Andy had been trained up in a short time. Combative training, situational awareness and CQC. Took after Chris abilities.
Mentored and paired with Granger, Assistant Director of NCIS, the team were surprised that a new untried agent would be assigned to him.
Granger seemed to like Andy more than he liked anybody. Andy realised why. As he took her arm at the Gala. Owen without thinking said to her. '' You're a lot like Christiane.'' Owen knew Chris.
Andy's startled eyes held Owen's, he knew her Mother. She was hungry to know more, hear more.
Brought against Owen, he held her arm. '' Remember Sachs who you aren't, tonight you're Bronwyn Lancret Whitehead. Art dealer part time broker of other rare special items. Andy Sachs does not exist.'' Andy knew what he meant. The past was the past.
Watching Miranda with her date for an hour was wearing on Bronwyn Lancret Whitehead was ready to kill Miri's date…chafing at his hand on hers, eyes bright at something he said. Placed a tanned palm on her waist. Playing with her wrist, fingers tracing her palm. Watch it buddy. ''Nell, Eric who's that over there at the table to my far left.''
Nell zoomed in on the couple, running analysis. ''that's a Miranda Priestly, Runway Editor I read it from time to time.'' Cut off by Andy impatiently. ''I know her, who is he?''
''Somers Tolaram. Tycoon family money made by textiles mainly pashminas and heads a Luxury Hotel line, he's a civilian, drives a Lamborghini Aventador.'' Giving Eric the eye, what was up with Andy? Something had her irritated. Yanked her chain taunt.
Andy repeated the name. Somers. '' What the hell are they doing? '' Eric answered helpfully. ''Dancing.''
If he put his hand any lower, or tangoed she'd find a reason to have him wind up sedated and bagged to Kashmir to go shave his pashminas himself.
Granger saw them. ''Sachs the funder is leaving soon. We need to hear his conversation with the Abu Sayyaf cell leader... Remember our target Andy.'' She felt like she was being scolded by Owen. He was telling her to get her head back in the game.
Andy looked one last time. ''I'm on it.''
Not seen by Miranda. She headed for the target. Pushing through the crowd.
Spilling her drink of fluted champagne on him. ''I'm so clumsy. Is that silk? What a shame. I am so sorry, I'll pay for the dry cleaning'' Feeling his broad chest as she dabbed at her spill. Deliberately bending closer, the dress was very low cut. ''aren't you fit as a Mallee Bull.''
Andy had the terror funder's attention. ''You are Australian like myself?''
She had the accent down perfectly. ''Yes, Born and bred. Echuca.'' Kensi had competition.
Sachs was good.
G, and Sam insisted it sounded like Deeks infamous Sven.
Not amused at being left a koala and a kangaroo stuffed animals and a copy of Crocodile Dundee and a case of Fosters on her desk. ''Very funny guys, it was authentic.''
Typing in Somers Tolaram's name on her laptop.
Wincing at Miranda's Mr Charming. Not confident she could convince Nell or Eric to make Somer's have five years' worth of unpaid parking tickets. Get his beloved car towed and impounded. Conveniently left in a ghetto. A man's fancy shiny sports car was a sign of a certain envy.
It had been the worse evening got to see the person she loved more than anything in the world dine, dance and leave with him and had to hurt someone who respected her, Dom. Emily's date.
Embraced suddenly. '' Sachs! What are you doing here in LA?'' Dom took in his ex-partner. She looked well but not at all pleased to see him. About to call Emily over. Andy blinked Emily was expecting. Pregnant with Dom's child. Happy for them. Hiding it. ''I was trying to reach you, I want you to be our baby's godmother.''
''I think your mistaken I'm not that person you think I am. I suggest and I'm saying this kindly. Walk away and leave me alone.''
Dom blinked at the tone on Andy. This was his ex-partner, his friend. ''No I guess you're not, that person.'' Thought he knew Andy Sachs.
Andy saw she'd made her point brutally.
Sitting with her legs tucked up, Andy overlooking the lights of LA from the hills. Hoping a fraction of Miranda missed her. Even a little bit. Andy mused darkly if Tolaram was sharing the night with Miranda.
The next morning, Andy decided she had to see Miranda again just once, across the street Andy bought some flowers, trying to duplicate her favourite blooms would leave the bouquet at the front desk to Ms Priestly.
Sitting concealed in the lobby, Andy watched from the lobby lounge mirror and reflections happily saw her. Andy's face fell as she saw him. Still dressed in last night's tuxedo walking with Miranda. He was rumpled clearly had spent the night. It had been twelve months apart. Had hoped she wasn't replaceable. Was.
Got up and left. Heartbeats breaking.
Made sure not to be seen.
Andy shook away that memory. She'd successfully alienated everyone who cared about her, who mattered to her.
Owen Granger watched Sachs stoically, Hetty had told him to watch over Andy, he didn't need to be told to. Would always watch over anything of Chris's back.
Joined the debriefing room. Hetty announced solemnly. ''We have a situation.''
Eleven Hours Ago
Caroline and Cassidy knew they shouldn't be at this party in Boston at a stranger's house but their friend had made them come along. Charlie apparently knew them. Sort of.
Supposed to be in the lobby of the Ritz Carlton meeting Mom and then dinner at Maura Isles.
Not here with Charlotte. Lots of bored rich kids, one bartender handed them drinks with a wink, he was at least twenty. Cropped dirty blond hair and a bemused smile urged. ''Go on. Just sip it.''
Car made a face as she drank. Cass spat half of hers out. Where was Charlie? Cass tugged her twin. ''Come on, I can hardly hear in here. Let's find her. Then we can leave.''
When their Mom found out they would face the wrath of The Dragon Lady. Be grounded till 20 they'd just turned sixteen. Seeing it was a wild party, moving through crowds, boys and girls up against each other not dancing, making out.
Charlotte was found. Her mouth had been engaged with a frat boy's. ''Fine we're leaving okay, quit being such babies.'' The Priestly twins were real goody goody sometimes.
Charlotte was new to Dalton, just moved to New York 9 months ago.
The young blond bartender watched the three girls, the effects of his drinks were beginning. Good. His shift was done right now.
The Trader would be very pleased. Fresh and innocent.
Car was dialling a cab, if they timed it right would return to their Hotel and Mom would never know about this.
''Excuse me can I give you three a lift.'' Smiling at them with pearly white teeth. Nik short for Nikolai always had away with females. Looked like he could be a Calvin Klein underwear model and an adorable accent. Persuaded to accept by Charlie who gave them a look of he's gorgeous, don't refuse and ruin it.
Car and Cass hesitated. Car spoke. ''I guess.''
Missed his Vory tattoos on his hand and fingertips.
They were in Nikolai's safe hands he'd drive them to exactly where they belong.
Cass felt weird turning to Car who had slumped, passing their hotel. ''Drop us here.'' Slurring the words. ''Right here. Stop.'' Cass realised, something was wrong she felt sick, and so sleepy, was she drugged. Nikolai face was blurry.
Driving them. Falling asleep from roofies. Discarding their phones with gloved hand out his window.
Nikolai drove pass their hotel, smiling at his three unconscious passengers. The Trader would be impressed. 1 daughter of head of the CIA as ordered and these two untouched beauties, Nikolai wasn't just a Kazan hood from St Petersburg or a little boy. Probably earn stars on his knees as a lieutenant tonight.
The Trader's Home
Cold eyes swept over Nikolai's delivery. '' Who are they? This is not one girl. What did I say explicitly? I said take the girl. Only daughter of the Director of Central Intelligence Agency. I ordered you to take one girl, I did not say take three girls. Did I. Nikolai?''
Nikolai shook his head at her. ''I thought it would be a good decision to take them as well.'' The Trader's brow rose, stepping closer to Nikolai she could see his adam's apple bobbing up and down with fear of her.
Her fingers traced a path up his arm. ''That is the problem you thought. I don't pay you to think. I pay you to follow my instructions. My precise instructions.''
Nikolai watched her hand trailing up his tattooed arm. ''I thought you would like them, you could sell them. Their virgins.''
The Trader studied the limp girls, he had caused her such a headache. Her fingers traced the still cheek of one of the identical girls with flame red hair. Her mind calculating. ''They are pretty.''
Nikolai agreed. Letting out the breath he had been holding. His smile widening ''I knew you would be pleased.'' The Trader's blood red painted manicured fingers traced his knuckles the tattooed dots, a diamond and the word for north meaning Nikolai had been in a prison in the North for the most violent prisoners and the others meaning he had killed, stolen, raped... He had been a bad boy.
''Come Nikolai I want to show you my gratitude fully. Take off your shirt.'' Nik couldn't believe his luck, The Trader wanted him, his mind already thinking of the empire they could build the power they could have. The money he would have. Unbuttoning his silk shirt, revealing the tattoos all along his smooth chest. The wolf image on his arm. The Trader watched, hungry, smiling, he was dangerous she liked that. She was too.
She moved into his arms leaning so close. He closed his eyes expecting her crimson lips to kiss him. He screamed in pain. Nikolai was stabbed with a letter opener through his hand, held. ''That is for disobeying me.''
The Trader released him as Nikolai crumbled on the ground cradling his hand, blood dripping on her expensive carpet. Hate in his eyes. ''Leave.''
What to do with these two uninvited guests. Opening each of their purses. Her eyes lit at their IDs.
If they were nobodies she'd feed them both to her pets. Typing in their parent's names. The Google search satisfied The Trader's interest.
Valuable. Very valuable.
These two red heads were very special indeed. Must be treated with care and consideration and with The Trader's full hospitality. Sisters. Twins meant to be kept together.
The Trader always wanted a sister instead she was saddled with brothers' oafish oxen louts, ambitious less except whoring in the Federation, brothers she committed fratricide on. Dear papa should have given her that present that day when she was ten instead of to them.
The Trader's name was Gaukhar Zubeidat, she was Chechen and Avar, head of her late father's Vor V Zakone syndicate up and down the East Coast.
What fortunate providence, they'd live tonight. Lucky Sukas.