After their argument of a few days ago, they had come to an understanding. A routine had been developed of sorts, one both found comfortable. Red hadn't gone any further than her voice carried, which made him comfortable. The only times he left were for quick trips to the Post Office, none of which lasted more than an hour... which Liz found reassuring.
She would have thought she'd feel awkward as hell, being in such close proximity to Red, but she hadn't. They were all adults here and the circumstances unusual. It hadn't been as bad as she had anticipated. She thought they were handling the situation very well, all things considered.
But one day, Dembe had hinted towards some business deal that needed Red's attention. She noticed that the man immediately waved off the task. It was then, Liz realized Red had literally been putting off everything to be here with her.
While she had enjoyed his company, he had a business to run. Traveling to do. Carver to find. He couldn't put it off for the next six or seven weeks.
One morning shortly thereafter, they were sitting in bed. She had her foot elevated, both relaxing, in the midst of another of Red's fantastic stories, when Dembe entered the room, phone in hand.
Red's brows rose, questioning silently. The man was clearly annoyed, not at Dembe, but at the phone the other man held aloft.
"It's Russia. They've had a problem."
Red sighed heavily, waving the phone forward. Taking the offending object, he reluctantly listened to the voice at the other end of the line.
After a few beats of silence, Red spoke, "So tell them to divert the shipment. Call Edmund and tell him it will be a few hours off schedule. What's so damn difficult..."
Nodding his head sarcastically, Red continued. "No, I can't come out there right now." He looked at Liz, "It's none of your damned business 'why'."
Liz laid a hand on his arm, getting his attention. She nodded vigorously, mouthing the word, Go.
Red's scowl increased. "Peter, let me call you back." then rolled his eyes expressively, "Yes, in a minute!" He barked, slapping the phone shut.
He shot her a determined look. "I am not leaving you here alone."
"I'll be fine." she humored, her tone sincere.
"No. With Carver still out there..." Red shook his head negatively. "Absolutely not."
"You'll be gone, what, a day?" Liz plaintively searched his face. "Silas is here."
"A lot can happen in a day." Red knew from experience. He silently contemplated his options. "I'll leave Dembe."
"No you won't. I won't be able to rest if I know you're out there alone." she presented her point of view. "There's, how many guys running around this property right now? Men you've hired." she mentally calculated. "I will be perfectly safe."
"You won't leave this house?" Red needed confirmation.
"Even if I wanted to.." She waved over her injuries.
"Elizabeth." the man stated sternly. "If I left and something happened to you..." He shook his head brusquely. "Promise me."
Liz had never seen him so troubled, well, not since Anslo had a gun held to her head. It unsettled her. "I will not leave this house. I promise."
"Do not tell anyone where you are." he forewarned. "We don't want to risk them being followed and I most certainly do not want them relocating you, and Cooper will." he ticked off on his fingers. "This is the safest place for you to be right now."
The woman could find no real argument to debate at this point. Just getting to the bathroom was a chore. Fending off an attacker, and one as strong as Carver, would be impossible.
Red threw the phone to Dembe, "Tell them we'll be leaving shortly." he threw an obstinate glare at the woman. "Don't make me regret this decision, Lizzy."
"I won't, I promise." she crossed her heart, holding up 'Boy Scout' fingers. "The sooner you go, the sooner you can get back."
Liz sat in the back pool area, book in hand, her foot elevated to a comfortable position. Sitting the paperback in her lap, she reached for her ice tea, smiling softly as she watched Hudson pout on the floor near the doorway.
For the first couple of hours, the dog had sat by the front door, looking forlorn and lost with Dembe's departure. She had coaxed him with treats to follow her. Even so, it was clear how much he missed Dembe. The animal would raise his head hopefully each time he heard the door open.
Red and Dembe had been gone two days now and as promised, she hadn't left the house nor told anyone her location. And she hadn't wanted to.
Aside from the heavy casts, the slightly stoned feeling she carried throughout the day and the maniacal killer hunting for her, this was the most relaxed she had been in a long time.
Maybe taking a little breather wasn't so bad.
She felt her mind clearing a little more each day. After being away from work, she felt fresh and renewed. Which probably made sense, considering she hadn't taken a vacation since working with Red.
Not that he was to blame. Oddly of late, it seemed she had blamed him for everything wrong that had happened in her life.
She knew, without doubt, had she even hinted that she needed a break, he would have shipped her off to a private tropical island, knowing Red.
But things had been so tense at home, work was her salvation.
This break from Tom and his untimely visits and calls, had been needed.
In the quiet, she had finally taken the time to process, to reflect, on their relationship and had found, in this instance... absence did not make the heart grow fonder.
Liz had let the familiarity she had once felt with Tom, blind her to how seriously clouded her judgement had become. She needed to let the past go and move on.
It was not certain if the man would actually leave her alone, however.
He wasn't her husband any longer. He certainly wasn't the man she had married.
Tom Keen wasn't even his name. He was a virtual stranger. Everything she thought she knew about the man, was a lie. The Tom Keen she knew... didn't exist.
It was all a charade.
Red, on the other hand, had tried to be as up front as possible. And he had been right, she hadn't always believed him. When he had taken a chance, giving her more information, she believed he had manipulated the situation. And in the end when she found that he hadn't, she never apologized for her earlier assumption.
She was abrupt, sometimes down right rude with the man, but he was always there when she needed help. No matter if it was work or of a personal nature...
She looked around the beautiful room, sighing. And even here, he was seeing to her comfort and safety.
He had handled her tantrums about Tom with understanding patience. Then picked up the pieces left behind when her world had unraveled.
Which said a lot about both their characters.
While Red offered a shoulder to cry on, supporting and encouraging words, and in the end she, having realized the truth about Tom, being presented with that beautifully restored music box had touched her heart and in a manner of speaking... restored her soul.
While she, on the other hand, was always the first to say, I told you so. To rub salt in open wounds.
What was more disturbing, she had that character trait before Red had even come into the picture. She had been called single-minded more than once in her life. 'By the book', black and white, no gray areas.
That was Elizabeth Keen.
A few days back when Red had given her that tongue lashing, she now had to wonder, had he, in his own erudite way, been saying the same thing?
The muffled sound of the front door closing broke her reverie.
One of the guards was making his afternoon rounds.
There had been several changes the day following the 'fisticuffs in the foyer' incident.
Red and Silas had gotten into a heated exchange so intense, Liz had heard them bellowing even in their bedroom.
Dembe had finally arrived, with an explanation of sorts. He gestured meaningfully at one point, "Make him be quiet," the large man said, "he's disturbing my morning meditation."
The woman wondered what the hell she could possibly do to quiet the situation. She found both men toe to toe, gesturing heatedly, hotly debating about how Security should be managed.
Liz sat quietly on her cart debating her own options. She glanced up catching Dembe's eyes, then acted on instinct because in reality, she had no idea how to calm two Alpha Males who were determined, each to have his own way.
Dembe helped her arise as she shakily steadied herself on the handlebars of her cart. The exchange was becoming more aggressive on both parts.
She stumbled forward, very uneasy with the apoplectic words. At one point, she was so anxious to put herself between the two combatants... her foot faltered and she ended up having to grip Red's arm to steady herself.
Both men unconsciously stepped back, which allowed her to work her way between them.
She lifted beseeching eyes, her hand gently grazing Red's firmly set chin. Momentarily the fiery eyes transferred to her clear ones, only to return a staggering glare to a belligerent opponent.
The fact that Red was berating her guard in such a manner, due to something she felt totally responsible for, only added to her anxiety.
Liz ignored the gesture, her fingers falling softly over Red's mouth. The man's startled gaze was finally directed to something other than the source of his anger. He stared down at the small woman, completely focused.
The woman watched the tension bleed from his stiff posture, her touch slowly falling away from his face.
She was stunned when his hand halted her own's path, the grip light. Red's tense lips softened as he tenderly grazed the tips of her fingers. The open affection literally took her breath away.
Red breathed in a cleansing breath, taking her hand, he guided her to the couch.
Silas watched the man, his expression a wary one.
Red's diplomatic tendencies had the situation well in hand within minutes. A suitable plan of action which satisfied all concerned, was agreed upon.
One stipulation which Red insisted be carried out, troubled the woman deeply. He wanted a guard outside their door when he was not present. Ensuing his peace of mind.
The first night, she had felt awkward. But in the morning, after a refreshing night's sleep... one in which she had no worries concerning Red or herself. She was able to finally relax and accept the situation as one she could live with.
"David?" She set her book aside, glancing to the door, expecting to see the young guard. Hudson stood, wagging his tail, excitedly dancing in place.
"Two days I've been gone and you're on a first name basis with the guards." Red stepped through the archway casually, tossing his hat on the couch.
"Red!" She smiled, happy to see him again. "I didn't expect you back so soon." she sat up straighter, her smile widening. "How did it go?"
Hudson sniffed him, waiting for his customary pat on the head before taking off in search of Dembe.
Red poured a drink, then sat down next to her. "As well as could be expected." he informed her. "I can't believe I had to fly around the world for..." He took a long drink from the tumbler, rubbing his neck, "God forbid I should take some real time off. Everything would fall apart."
"What happened?" She took the glass out of his hand, bringing it to her own mouth. Red took her chin in his hand, making her face him.
She offered him a puzzled look.
He quirked his brow, then took the glass out of her reach.
"I am of legal age, you know." Liz's brow crinkled, a derisive sound escaping her throat.
"You are also high as a kite." the man reached over, substituting her ice tea, placing it in her hand. He smiled when she scrunched her nose with disdain, but she sipped the cool beverage regardless.
"Nothing happened per say." he continued. "Shipping problems that could have been handled..." He exhaled heavily, halting his narrative.
The whole trip had been a waste of time in his opinion. On top of that, Ressler had called with a new victim. The pictures were the same as the first. Bloody and gruesome. And they still were nowhere near, to closing in on Carver.
Red hadn't known the victim, but there was something about her that spoke volumes to him. It was frustrating as hell because she was trying to say something that he simply could not hear at this point. But he would soon, hopefully.
"It doesn't matter." Red dismissed all else, leaning into the woman's sphere. "I want to hear all about what you've been doing."
"You're looking at it." she waved her hands expressively about. "They wouldn't let me do much of anything. The guards or nursing staff... they've been bossy, but very attentive."
"Were they unkind to you?" Red's scowl deepened.
"No, not at all." she laughed musically. "Red, I was just grabbing my water from the side table and they came running. It was ridiculous." she pulled a cute grimace. "Oh, they started me on some minor exercises. Just keeping the arm and leg flexible, mainly. But it's important, I guess."
He had left instructions for the staff to watch her, make sure she didn't fall. Maybe they had gone a little overboard with their attentions. But, she was well and there had been no accidents, so really, he wasn't going to actually complain.
"You'll be thankful later." it was prophesied. "Did the Post Office make contact?"
"Yes." she brightened. "Aram wanted to send a card, but I told him you'd pick it up when you came by. I didn't know if that was okay to say?"
"It's fine." Red dreaded the fact. "I have to go in shortly anyway."
"Can't it wait? You look exhausted." Liz noticed the dark circles under the man's eyes.
"I want to get it out of the way and come home."
"Is there a problem?" she was suddenly on alert. "News on Carver?"
"I have their next Blacklist name."
"The next... but what about Carver?" she asked anxiously.
"Don't concern yourself with him. Everything that can be done..." he dismissed airily. "This next case should be cut and dry. A couple days out at most."
"Who are you going to give it to?"
"Who do you think?" Already knowing the answer himself, he was curious if she thought the same.
"Ressler?" she practically giggled her glee.
Red smiled his amusement.
Later that day, Silas came through, after Red had left. An easy camaraderie had developed between he and Elizabeth Keen.
They often chatted frequently of late, the woman finding the man interesting, articulate and amusing.
"Any problems today?" Elizabeth had noticed a particular twinkle in the grey eyes this afternoon.
"Just that annoying neighbor kid tossing his ball into the yard again." Silas checked a window lock. "Joe's gonna pop it one of these days."
Liz held her smile, "What is it with you guys and that kid? Why does he bug you so much?"
"Every time he throws that ball over, he tries to scale the fence, which sets off the alarm, which someone has to go check out."
The radio on the man's belt started chiming an alert. Silas sighed heavily.
"This makes three times today." He raised the radio to his mouth, clicking the button. "Anyone got that? I'm with..." the grey eyes filled with mirth as he glanced at the other occupant of the room. "Her."
"Copy." He received a reply, absently hooking the radio back to his belt.
"Why don't you guys ever say my name?" she was curious.
"Truthfully?" he asked innocently.
Elizabeth spread her hands slightly. "Of course."
"Most of the guards forget your name."
She gasped her shock. "But I know their names."
"Those aren't their real names." he managed very straight faced. "If we told you that, we'd have to kill you."
The beautiful mouth fell agape. Silas burst out chuckling.
Elizabeth's eyes narrowed suspiciously, getting the jest. "Oh, very amusing, you big oaf."
"You wouldn't happen to know if Red's picked up my mail, would you?" she continued, her tone less acerbic "I ordered stuff and I'm sure it's being delivered and my bills..."
"I saw a box in the foy– " Silas' reply was interrupted by Joe's deep voice bitching morosely. The radio sounded crystal clear, almost as if the man was in the same room.
"I don't wanna do it, but I have to take this kid out." Joe grumbled belligerently.
Liz held her fingers to her ears, grimacing slightly as the berating continued at a slightly higher magnitude.
"Hey, you little bastard!" the man screeched at his new adversary. "You want this ball stuck up your ass!"
"How many times has he set off the perimeter alarm in one day?" Liz chuckled her appreciation of the situation.
"Twelve." Silas tried to hold his own amusement.
"Pop the ball." She shrugged casually.
Silas laughed, but she continued, "I'm serious. He's just jacking with you now. He knows it's pissing you off." The guard was directed. "Tell Joe, I said to pop it and toss it back over."
"You're serious?" Silas was happy.
"Yes, he's going to keep doing it just to spite you."
Silas shrugged, keying the mike. "She says to pop the ball."
"Really!" Joe came back excitedly. "She said that?"
Liz waved him forward, taking the radio. "Yep, and throw it back over the fence."
"Your orders will be followed to the letter, Ma'am." she could hear the glee in the hardened ex-military man's retort.
Liz smiled, when they heard a loud pop and what could possibly be misconstrued as maniacal laughter over the radio.
"That man enjoys his job too much sometimes." Silas smiled warmly at her.
She held up the radio, thumbing the button. "If he throws anything else over, keep it. And if he tries to climb over again, call the cops on him. His parents need to step up and corral that kid."
A round of the Security 'copying' her orders came in quick succession. She grinned, returning the communication device to it's rightful owner.
"You just made everyone unbelievably happy. I'll go check that mail for you." the man nodded his approval, the action meaning much to the woman. "By the way... my name is Silas."
"Your real name?" she queried.
He pulled a face, shrugging apologetically. "We can't go there, Ma'am... remember?"
"Oh, get out." she exclaimed, exasperated.
He came back a minute later, carrying a large basket.
"Is that all mine?" She asked aghast, clapping her hands together gleefully.
"No, I think some of Red's is in here." he glanced down to his burden. "You want me to sort it real quick?"
"Just bring it to me each day and I'll do it." she waved him over. "It might help Red out."
"All right. I'm gonna go check on the guys, especially Joe." he threw out a careless thumb over his shoulder. "See that he hasn't aerated the kid."
Liz's shoulders shook with amusement as she sorted the stack of mail. Seeing as there were so many different aliases for Red, it took a few minutes to organize it all.
She opened an early festive birthday card from her Aunt, smiling. As expected, the inevitable gift card she knew would be inside slid from the hidden folds.
A hundred dollars for Victoria's Secret. Not bad. Much better then whatever Gypsy outfitter her Aunt had picked last year.
Liz didn't know what the woman had been thinking. Not once in her entire life had Liz ever dressed like a hippie/gypsy. But she had purchased some nice candles and funky jewelry, so it wasn't a complete loss.
Elizabeth read the inside, smiling at the birthday wishes, which also included a quick update on the family. The woman was pleased to hear that everyone seemed to be doing so well.
She sat the card aside, reaching for the next letter, her thoughts still with the lovely sentiments expressed.
Absently sliding the single sheet of paper free, she automatically perused the neatly typed script.
For someone who claims to care for you so much, I find that bastard Reddington has left you injured and alone. I'm sure he's given you no chance to escape or even call for help. Probably surrounding you with armed guards who watch your every move. Putting you under lock and key, like the prisoner you are.
I've been searching, but still haven't found you. But I will, have faith
And when I do, I will purge you of his lies. You will be pure once again, no longer sinful. We will cleanse you, redeem you, bleed his evil from you
Scowling darkly, Liz examined both sides of the letter and envelope yet again, looking for clues as to who might have sent such a disturbing letter.
There was no address or name aside from her's.
Picking up her phone, her decision made, she dialed with trembling fingers.
Author Note: Is it Baz... is it Silas? Who the hell knows. If we did know, he'd kill us.