Focal Point

by Daniel Davies

(Lizzington) A dangerous serial killer targets Elizabeth Keen as the newest Blacklister hits too close to home for Red Reddington. She must rely on the one person her instincts tell her she can trust. Liz finds herself inexplicably drawn closer to the only man capable of protecting her from this insidious new threat. (Mature Content)

115. Come Monday

AUTHOR NOTES:

The ink is still wet on this one, we literally just finished adding in some things a few minutes ago. I would be surprised if there weren't any typos. If there are any, point them out :)

I added a couple reader suggestions again but one in particular has been in the works over a couple chapters... we finally bring it full circle in this one. I hope she enjoys it. :)

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JUNE 9 -

Elizabeth Keen was restless.

Yes, that was the word. Restless and bored.

She fidgeted the entire elevator ride. Her guards were stoically quiet, about their jobs. She hated when they were in that mode.

She felt disconnected with them. She was no longer 'Liz'... she become the person they were paid to watch over. To risk their lives for.

While intellectually, she totally understood the need to separate the two realities, emotionally the fact irritated her.

She had even hit Silas' broad shoulder as she passed in the hall, giving him an annoyed glare.

The man halted his steps instantly, sparing her a 'what the hell' look, his hands spreading wide.

She studiously ignored the unasked question that look implied, waiting impatiently for him to unlock the hotel suite's entrance.

Liz sighed, laying her laptop bag on the counter as Silas closed and secured the door behind them.

Normally, she loved her time spent in New York but today; she was relieved this jaunt was almost over.

With her team in the final stages of closing out their side of things, Liz was in a sort of limbo of her own making.

Red had left the jet here for her use and she could leave anytime she wished.

However, it felt tacky to strand her team, leaving them to find their own way home. Since she was going in that direction herself, she offered them a lift.

Now, there wasn't much for her to do but wait for their return.

Considering she, herself, was here in an unofficial capacity, Ressler suggested she make herself scarce to avoid censure.

Liz shrugged off the thought but then did as suggested, if only for Ressler's sake. He too, could face disciplinary action should it come to light she worked before being cleared by the Bureau.

She could probably skirt the rule because Red required her presence, but for Ressler's sake... she took a back seat.

Besides, she just didn't feel like bothering with the tedious formalities.

While her team dealt with the last of the red tape, securing pertinent files with the local field office, that would allow them to prosecute Samuel Lawford... she returned to the hotel.

Lawford would get jail time for the usual crimes the mob dabbled in. Racketeering, tax evasion, extortion... possession of stolen goods.

Liz glanced around the spacious suite, looking for something positive to do.

She plopped a pod in the coffeemaker, going through the second nature motions on automatic pilot, her mind recalling her earlier conversation with Samar.

It didn't matter how long Samar had done the job, it still twisted her gut when men like Lawford, while listening to all the charges laid against them, murder included... remained aloof and blasé .

As if someone were simply reading a newspaper aloud to them.

The Agent confided, the display, or rather, lack of one disturbed her.

What was even more bothersome, when the man finally showed emotion, it had been completely out of the blue and for the oddest reason.

Lawford had gone completely ballistic when his possession of vast quantities of syrup had been called into question.

If it wasn't so utterly disturbing, Liz would have laughed.

Either way, she made mental note to inform Red, Lawford knew he was being labeled the fall guy. Francis should watch his back for a while just on the off chance Lawford had any faithful followers who might enact revenge for their boss.

The team would handle the rest of the documents at the Blacksite, particularly those pertaining to Lawford's involvement with certain terrorist factions.

The Bureau had enough with the minor infractions alone to get life in prison. Only when Lawford came up for parole, would the rest of the information come to light, if the need arose.

It seemed like an injustice to not nail Lawford with everything they could.

After speaking to Silas about it though, Liz changed her tune.

Her guard reminded her, if they kept the Intel on hand under wraps, it would allow the Special Op's teams handling the situation the element of surprise when they moved in on the terrorists to take them into custody.

Considering the men on her security detail, men she knew and loved like family, were all ex-military who had performed such operations in the past... Liz was more than supportive of them having the upper hand when it came to such dangerous missions.

Grasping her laptop, she fell heavily onto the sofa, gratefully enjoying the silence afforded her.

Silas had gone about his routine, securing the massive rooms they occupied.

Justin breezed past her having opened the door, entering without preamble. Liz noted a guard just outside that door.

Justin spared her a wave, heading to the back rooms, a spring in his step, a grin on his face. Silas emerged from the same area, saving the young man a trip.

"You need me?" Justin bounced excitedly in place.

"No," Silas waved the guy off, "go... play."

Justin clapped his hands together excitedly, bolting for the door with a backwards wave goodbye before disappearing from view.

"What d'you do?" Liz chuckled as Silas approached. "Get him laid?"

"Even I am not that good." Silas snarked.

Rolling her eyes, Liz pulled her laptop closer. "No, seriously. What's up with the guys?" she frowned at the coffee stain on her lid, wiping it clean. "They were all grumpy bastards, now they're like the Stepford Wives... with their creepy smiles."

Silas glanced up, shrugging, "They're just enjoying their new assignment."

Liz scowled, her cup held aloft in mid-air, "Since when?"

"I encouraged them to hone their skills while here," Silas murmured, marking a couple items off his daily checklist, "for the next few days, they will be employing concealment and camouflage techniques to evade pursuing enemies."

Liz listened to the man, a frown furrowing her brow the more he prattled on, "You told them in essence...to go play hide and seek?"

Silas lifted expressionless grey eyes, "In laymen's terms."

His full lips pulled into a disgruntled resentment for such a jejune phraseology.

She tittered softly at the man's seriousness, "You did tell them not to play in the street?"

"They have to be aware of all forms of danger." Silas grinned wickedly.

"And they're doing this... why?" she questioned the purpose of the activity.

Silas leaned forward, intent on informing the woman of the game, then hesitated.

While he personally had no issue informing Liz of the impromptu war game security was implementing with Tom... Red might.

Not that Silas believed Red would hide their activities from Liz, but he knew well enough, the man would rather discuss it with Liz himself should she have questions... or objection.

Liz narrowed her eyes at the man, "Is Red hiding something from me?"

"No." Silas answered without hesitation. "I think he would prefer to discuss this with you himself."

Liz nodded slowly, "You don't think it's your place to elaborate?"

"No, I don't." the man nodded in return. "I don't think he would mind if I told you, I just think..."

"No," Liz lifted a staying hand, "I respect what you're saying." she did. "Just so I know... he's not in any danger or–"

"No, no..." Silas assured quickly, "has nothing to do with Red." he sat forward, linking his fingers between parted knees. "I would inform you if there were issues with his security."

Liz studied the man's face, finding truth in the slate eyes.

"Nor is he hiding this from you either," Silas clarified. "He doesn't do that, Elizabeth."

Liz felt slightly rebuked. Silas so rarely called her by name, after all.

She was reading between the lines well enough. Red and Silas had discussed the events that took place and security measures... then Red wanted to hear for himself that she was okay with whatever tactics arrived at, straight from the source.

In the midst of reconnecting with her, he simply forgotten to bring up the subject. She couldn't really fault the man either. She too, had forgotten to mention key points of her day to Red last night... in between all they discussed.

"The subject of letting me in the loop wasn't brought up." Liz clarified.

"Exactly." Silas confirmed.

"Okay..." she inclined her head gracefully. She would talk to Red soon enough and would broach the subject then.

"It's all right, Silas." she smiled kindly at her now brooding guard. "It was a simple communication error." she shrugged. "I believe, if it were truly important, you would tell me."

And Liz did. Silas, himself, assisted her in finding personal security for Red, so if Red were in danger, she believed her guard would inform her of any issues.

So whatever security was involved with, Red would explain things in finer detail when he could.

When they could discuss those finer details... would remain to be seen. There were so many things for them to talk about, and not all were work related.

Liz mused on the gradual development in her and Red's relationship.

They discussed so many aspects of their lives now on a daily, oft times, hourly basis.

She no longer felt an outsider in any sense of the word.

She was ashamed to admit, she never looked at Red as a colleague, let alone a friend until he saw to her well-being after her run-in with Carver.

Even then, it had taken a couple weeks to warm up to the man. Let alone, see him as a human being.

Her thoughts drifted to an instance where she began looking at Red in a different light.

It happened days before her birthday. It was such an innocuous little thing, but his actions had endeared the man to her psyche.

Before he hired on Nora, Red had secured a cook to handle breakfast in case he was called away.

By chance, Red's meeting ended earlier than planned. He returned home just as the cook was setting plates of standard breakfast fare, along with... pancakes, before her.

Red stepped in before anyone could blink, removing the offending plate. He apologized for the grievous error, explaining he had neglected to inform the cook of her aversion to pancakes, then promptly requested French Toast be prepared instead, just how she liked it.

At first, the woman had felt rather silly for such an insignificant mistake. She would have simply made a pretense of tasting the food then lie to cover the tiny oversight.

And then it occurred to her... Red knew her preferences almost as well, if not more so... than she.

It was at that moment, Liz realized she had never taken the time to know him on a personal level.

It wasn't until recently that she learned how Red Reddington liked his coffee or that he had a weakness for jelly biscuits in the morning.

On the other hand, if asked of her teammates, she could have told you that Ressler liked sausage biscuits with coffee. Samar enjoyed a hard-boiled egg, English muffin and chamomile tea. And Aram, pancakes with milk.

She grimaced remembering one morning when Red handed her a cup of coffee prepared how she liked from her favorite coffee shop. She had snapped at him, demanding if he was having her followed.

She had felt rather embarrassed when the man gestured to the coffee mug from the previous day emblazoned with the shop's name along with the ingredients listed on the side, in plain view.

He had simply observed a preference, just as she had with her own team.

It saddened her that Red knew so much about her likes and dislikes, and she knew very little of his.

Slowly but surely, she was correcting that. But finding time to squeeze twenty questions in between the other issues of the day, was sometimes difficult.

In hindsight, aside from the fact Red did need more sleep, she was glad Red demanded they be given uninterrupted time alone.

She was determined to adopt the same attitude. When they were alone, the phone and laptop would be turned off.

Everyone else had off-time... a romantic life. So could they, dammit. And it was something she desperately needed, wanted... right now with Red.

"What's wrong with you?" Silas' deep baritone jarred the woman from her musings.

Liz looked up, finding her guard frowning in her direction.

"You've been," he gave her a once over, "sullen, all day."

Liz broke the intense gaze, fiddling with the buttons on her keyboard, just then realizing she was pouting. Not frowning, but pouting.

"No, I haven't." the pout deepened much to her vexation.

"Yes," he disagreed, "you have."

"I just..." she sighed, "I miss, Red."

"Uh huh..." Silas grunted the response, knowing better.

Liz tsked, huffing, "You know..." she pinched her lips irritably, "not everything is your business."

"I have my secrets," the man's droll tone drawled, "you have yours."

"You tell me yours," Liz lifted meaningful brows, "I'll tell you mine."

"I can guess most of yours." Silas dismissed. "You want to go see the guy."

Liz instantly brightened at the suggestion. Four days apart was weighing on her nerves, she admitted it only to herself.

"How... could I do that?" then sanity prevailed, "No... no wait," her mood dropped, "that would be pushing it, right?"

Silas wisely let her work it out in her own way.

"I mean... it's not like I'm stuck in the boondocks, for goodness sake," she reminded herself, "there are a billion and three things to do in this city. I should find a few thousand and go for it, right?"

Silas cocked his head to the right, listening politely for once.

"I could go shopping!" she brightened but even then, the thought held no real interest. "Is there something you guys want to do?" she grasped at straws. "A strip joint or something?"

"Our tastes run to museums and galleries." Silas quipped.

Liz had a good laugh over that one, "Yeah, for the nudes." she arched a knowing brow. "No, seriously though.." she waited hopefully.

"Red doesn't want a new fedora or tie," the guard assisted, "he wants to know that you are missing him as much as he is you."

"You think?" she turned to a gooey mush inside.

"There's no accounting for taste." Silas didn't want things to get maudlin. "Let's just get on the damn jet and go."

Liz sat the laptop aside absently, "I think something like that might be a little... too much too soon in our..." she trailed off, "don't you? Me showing up out of the blue, unannounced?"

Silas stared at her moodily, nothing more.

"He has meetings to worry about." she fidgeted. "I would be an intrusion to his work."

Still, her 'mentor' remained silent.

"Silas, help me out." she pleaded. "I'm floundering here. I don't know him as well as you do yet."

"You know him, Elizabeth." it was sternly corrected. "He's allowed you in deeper than anyone before. Trust your instinct."

Still, the woman's indecision stifled those instincts, he could see.

"If it were me..." it was hard for the man to be open with any emotion let alone, personal ones. But he made the effort. "A man wants tangible evidence that someone gives a damn."

Elizabeth waited anxiously for the narrative to continue, unaware she was holding her breath.

"Being able to touch that evidence, to hold it in your arms," Silas' brow furrowed darkly, forced to consider his own needs and desires, "shuts out all the shit the day has brought."

Those slate eyes lifted, staring intensely, "I know the shit Red is dealing with. I've seen it firsthand." he shifted those all-knowing eyes. "...He wants you there. So... go."

Liz's heart leapt with joy.

"Do you think?" she rubbed her hands together nervously.

"What did I just say?" Silas snapped, unhappy with the fact he allowed too much emotion to cloud his judgement.

Liz opened her mouth just as her phone rang, saving her from replying.

"Oh, hi," the woman grinned infectiously, "I didn't expect you to call so early."

"I had a few moments between meetings." Red sighed. "If I had to spend one more second with those idiots without a break," he told the truth, "I would have pulled my weapon."

"Are you talking about Francis?" Liz took exception for her friend.

"Believe it or not, Francis and Ben are the only ones keeping me sane and if you repeat those words..." Red felt better already despite his mood.

"You'll pull your weapon on me?" Liz quipped.

Silas sat straighter, a little more interested now that guns were involved.

"No," Red drawled. "But if we don't have some time together, I may snap and kill everyone."

"I should warn you," The woman waved the guard's sudden interest aside, "Silas is in the room, so you better watch it fella, my guard doesn't take kindly to veiled threats."

"Yeah, whatever. He'll try and fail." Red grumbled. "...Talk."

Liz couldn't help it, she giggled at the brusque demand, "is there anything in particular you wished for me to say, oh Great One?" she questioned, smiling at her guard who pulled a disgusted grimace.

Silas made himself comfortable, his arm draping along the back of the divan. He crossed his ankle over his knee, grasping the area.

"And let's keep it clean," she suggested, exchanging a playful glance with Silas, "big ears are listening."

"When the hell did he start giving a damn about propriety?" Red stated peevishly.

"When the hell did I start giving a damn about propriety?" Silas stated just as peevishly.

Liz's mouth fell slightly agape. The two men had no idea just how in sync they were. Their thought patterns often overlapped, she had come to realize.

"Tell Dumbo to take a hike." Red had other plans.

Red enjoyed the quiet of the room he had slipped into which had been booked for several of the meetings he would be holding this session.

"I needed to hear your voice..."

The man propped his bottom on a convenient table, the highly glossed mahogany allowing his thigh to slide effortlessly along the smooth, rich grain.

"I want you to talk to dirty to me," he clarified, "without that jackass listening in."

"You're in a grumpy mood." Liz's eyes softened more so when the man huffed... grumpily.

"Not exactly the dirty talk I anticipated." Red frowned his discontent, his tone betraying his light-hearted words.

Taking pity on the man, Liz settled more comfortably on the couch, tucking her legs under her.

"I miss you..." she pouted, a coyness entering her voice.

"That's better." Red drawled after a moment's consideration, his temper warming to her persuasive charm. "...Keep doing that."

"Do you miss me?" Liz played her role, sticking her tongue out at her guard for he had made a gagging face.

"Of course I do," Red grumbled, feeling the effect of her presence even over the line, "you know I do."

Oh, he was in a dour mood today. Liz's tummy flipped in response. She liked when he was like this because... she was the only one who could really get him perked up.

"I'm so lonely in that big old bed," she held the pout, "I'm cold without you there, sharing it with me."

Silas tilted his head, his expression not exactly an impressed one. Liz tried harder.

"The sheets don't warm against me like they do when you're here." she ventured boldly

"Maybe if you weren't naked..." Silas muttered his belief.

Liz clamped her mouth shut, staving off a fit of laughter. She took a deep breath hoping to compose herself.

"I'll warm you when I get home." Red husked.

Liz gasped, her amusement vanishing posthaste. Her heart fluttered in response to the quiet promise, "How?" she questioned. "Will you read me a book?"

She suddenly wanted to prolong this conversation. She loved his voice and the way he 'sold' a paragraph he read.

"That..." Red nodded, "among other things."

The deep sensual tone filled her with all sorts of pleasant emotions.

"Other things?" Liz whispered hopefully.

"Well, if you don't know..." Silas remarked sotto voce, his brow crooking with his growing amusement.

"Oh..." she ignored her guard, sending him an annoyed glance focusing on Red instead, "... you mean like, cuddling?" she asked innocently.

Red grunted, admittedly enjoying the innocent image painted in his head.

"Do you like to do that?" Liz questioned anxiously, feeling her inadequacies. She was just learning this new form of foreplay. She sensed she needed improvement.

"I like cuddling you." Red admitted. To be honest, he rarely, if ever, had the chance with other lovers to pursue such an intimate level.

Sex was sex. But the man could not say if he had ever taken the time to promote deeper emotions with others. Surely, he would not have been so remiss.

"And I like when you lay against me," Liz hedged purposely, "and settle your weight between my legs and your chest presses against my breasts."

Red blinked, his mind shifting to an unexpected place.

"That warms me right up..." Liz purred, whispering for Red alone. She threw Silas a 'go away' glare.

Silas sat back comfortably, his brows raised at the unexpected turn of events. He gave her a thumbs up for her effort.

"Do you like that as well?" she asked tightly, sharply shooing the other man away.

Silas' mouth pulled into a grin as he leisurely pushed off the couch, benignly heading for a snack... allowing them a moment's privacy.

Red's shoulders eased from their tense perch. He closed his eyes, allowing the pleasant images to come.

"...Yes." he admitted anxiously, another type of tension forming in his body.

Clothed or not, he savored the visions of him surrounding Lizzy's warm, soft body with his thicker bulk.

He adored when the woman wriggled beneath him, as his weight bore down on her.

At first, he thought his weight too heavy for her but quickly learned... she would exhale her contentment once he settled in place, burrowing closer into his hold.

He had chuckled the first time she had done that, amused by such eager acceptance. Lizzy nuzzled her nose into his chest and neckline, softly purring her contentment.

Lizzy was a snuggler... which was more than fine with him. Though, he would have never expected it in a million years by her everyday demeanor.

But then, that was Lizzy. The gift that kept on giving.

Liz shifted gears sensing phone sex was not behind the reason Red called today. That was not what would ease his mood. Their discussion last night consisted of subject matter deeper in nature.

"When you surround me in your warmth," she sighed airily, sharing her own emotions freely, "your love... that's where I find the most peace."

Liz listened to the man's breathing and could tell his tension was diminishing by degrees.

"What do you enjoy, Red?" she murmured. "What brings you peace?"

"Being with you." the man replied without hesitation. "...Speaking to you... with you."

Her cheeks plumped with delight.

"I enjoy our dinner conversations, just talking about... nothing." he cricked his neck, relieved when it finally loosened enough to pop. "When we read together, that gives me a certain... calmness of soul."

She had not known that.

She always assumed he might be a little annoyed by her sudden conversations when they read in the evenings. She was constantly interrupting him, discussing an interesting subject his words brought to mind.

"I..." his eye ticked at the juvenile thought but what the hell, "...I even like holding your hand."

The smile on her face widened to extreme proportions, her heart skipping a beat, "...I like that too."

And she did. There was something about his large hand dwarfing hers that excited, yet calmed her.

"There is a... connection." Liz felt it each and every time. "Something passes between us."

Red's eyes softened when the woman sighed happily, "At night, when we're in bed," his voice lowered intimately, "laying against one another," why they were sharing seemingly frivolous things, he didn't know, but it was making him feel whole again, "content in each other's presence..." he exhaled slowly, "it's as if everything is right in the world."

Liz's eyes pricked suddenly with wet heat, "... I love you," she choked around the knot in her throat, "you know that."

"I'm beginning to." he murmured, a peace settling into his soul, "...I love you, Elizabeth... you must know that."

She inhaled shakily, gripping the phone in her hand, listening to the man breathe.

"Now...what's wrong." Red asked softly. "And don't say nothing... I know you by now."

"I wish I could say the same about you." her lip quivered, realizing she didn't know hardly anything that mattered.

The statement threw Red. He sensed this had nothing to do with their normal routine of him 'keeping things from her'.

This was entirely personal.

He waited for a sign of what to say... how to respond.

"How do I like my eggs?" Liz asked. "My favorite cheese?"

Red frowned slightly, "Omelets with cheese and bacon." his lips trembled with amusement. "Velveeta."

Of all the gourmet choices he brought home for her to try... the woman was still addicted to Velveeta cheese.

"What's this about?" he asked.

"Aren't there things about me you don't know," Liz asked, "but would like to?" she put it badly.

"There are a great many things I would like to know, yes." Red admitted, wondering where it all would lead.

"I guess I'm saying, you know so much about me. You know the littlest things," she frowned hard at her clumsy attempt to explain, "like how I prefer my coffee and that clowns annoy me."

Red held his amusement, knowing such a reaction wouldn't be appreciated at this time. Lizzy seemed truly despondent about this issue that had arisen. He couldn't help the warm smile that curved his lips, however.

"I know so little about you... which is by no means, your fault." she murmured.

Red hadn't expected this... at all. It was a delightful turn of events.

"How do you like your eggs? It's a small thing, I know... but I don't know the answer." she was frustrated with herself. "Do you like sweet over unsweetened tea?" she questioned. "Hell, I don't even know how you prefer your steak cooked!"

Red lifted his head, digesting the moment. She was finally wishing details about his personal preferences. He waited forever to get to this point.

"Over medium," the man answered readily, his mood suddenly high, "sweet tea and I like my steaks... medium."

Liz lay back into the couch, her entire body relaxing. She hugged a throw pillow, falling into the spirit of the moment, happy now. "What's your favorite season?"

"I prefer the fall." he said. "Winter can be beautiful in the mountains. Spring is lovely because it renews the spirit. And summer at the beaches are superb."

That was her favorite as well.

"Though," Red grinned, "Summer may take precedence with your little ass traipsing around in a bathing suit."

Liz snickered quietly all the while making note to go shopping for some new, more daring bathing suits this year.

"Do you prefer making love with the lights on or off?" she checked on Silas' whereabouts. The man vacated, when... she hadn't noticed to be honest.

"With you," the man's rumbling timber lowered, "...on."

Liz's cheeks flushed, a heat pooling between her legs. She took a deep breath, controlling her urge to ease the sudden ache.

"A-And in general?" she cleared her throat, needing to continue this fact finding mission. "Before me?"

"Nothing matters before you." Red replied honestly. After his reactionary confession, he thought about it a moment.

For the life of him, he couldn't remember making note of the atmosphere he had created with the other women in his life.

"...Red," Liz tsked.

"Lizzy, I truly can't recall if it ever came to mind." he confessed. "I'm sure I provided the proper ambiance, I'm not a complete cad," he said, "I romanced my partners if given the opportunity."

Few required it though. He remembered that. There was one goal in mind on both parts and that was the sexual release.

Red had explained a little of how his world worked.

One-night stands were the norm. One could 'sleep' with an associate but it was wholeheartedly unadvisable to actually close one's eyes around them.

There could be no real formed attachments because loyalties shifted, changed... in the blink of an eye.

So she assumed that a romantic setting wasn't a must-have.

"Before us, I had no real preference that I can recall." he didn't lie.

Elizabeth eclipsed them all, making the memories fuzzy, "With you... I prefer the lights on."

Images of their time together flashed in his mind's eye of Lizzy's pink skin glowing under the soft light of the bedside lamp. The warm illumination highlighting the woman in a dusky hue that was most alluring.

"Which isn't to say... there aren't benefits to the opposite situation as well." the man mused.

Liz frowned. What the hell did that mean? If anyone else had said it, she would have taken it as an insult. Did she look better in the dark?

"Your silence is telling, sweetheart." Red's eyes twinkled, knowing by second nature what the woman was thinking. "How can a man chose between watching or feeling you climax." his tone deepened. "Both are my most prized and cherished rewards."

"Oh..." she gasped her understanding, the flush of her skin covered her chest in a rosy tint.

With the lights on, Red could watch as the pleasure he gave her encompassed her body. With the lights off, he only had the sensation of her coming around his shaft to alert him of a job well done.

"And your preference?" Red enquired, although he already suspected.

"...Both." she confessed. She too loved watching the man lose himself in her body. But it was equally addictive, the heightened state her flesh achieved by the simple touch of his hand. Or the sudden rush of heat which filled her as he climaxed in the quiet darkness of the room.

This was unproductive. It was bad enough she had been without Red's company for four days. It wouldn't do either of them any good should they become aroused when no form of outlet was available.

She squared her shoulders, determined to change the path of this conversation to a safer subject.

"Jam or Jelly?" her blatant attempt amused Red. He laughed softly.

Red's eyes sparkled at her sudden veiled attempt, understanding the reasons. He missed her as well.

"Jam." he replied. "I'm partial to blackberry, as you know." he reminded her, she did in fact, know something about him.

Red released a heavy sigh of exasperation, indicating their time was over... for now. Liz sensed someone had intruded into his world on the other end of the line.

She was disappointed their time had ended so soon, hundreds of probing questions popping into her mind.

"Dammit..." he cursed under his breath. "Baby, I–"

"I know..." she smiled warmly, riding the tide of disappointment. "You'll call me later?"

"I will." he promised himself another episode of Elizabeth Keen, if nothing else.

He watched the men approach.

Dressed in a variety of expensive suits, the group could pass for everyday businessmen going about their daily fare.

The dour expressions only hinted at a pressing problem to which they must attend.

Red geared himself up. Pressing problems in his line of business meant much more trouble on the horizon than most.

Something came to mind which staved off his rising depression. He grasped hold of the lifeline, his tone almost mellow when he spoke.

"...Come Monday, Lizzy."

The woman's stylish brows furrowed, "...What?"

"...Come Monday." he stressed tightly. "I'll call you soon. I love you, Lizzy."

"I love you..." she replied hastily, though knew Red would wait for her to hang up first. He loathed severing the connection, always allowing her to do so in her own time.

Knowing he had urgent business, Liz quickly severed the connection. She stared at the phone, her puzzlement growing more as the seconds ticked by.

What had he been trying to tell her? She sensed no danger, on the contrary, a rather sweet melancholy was in Red's tone. Left to her last resort, she booted her computer and brought up Red's nemesis... Google.

In this instance, it's all she had. She studied the subjects which her search garnered, even more disenchanted.

Silas came out from the back rooms, apple in hand. Considering the direction her call with Red was heading when he departed, he expected to find the woman flushed and slightly disheveled.

All women should be flushed and slightly disheveled in his humble opinion, on a regular basis.

Not confused.

"Something wrong?" Silas asked, sitting across from her, biting into the crispness of the fruit.

"If someone were to say to you," Liz lifted her eyes above the computer screen, her brow etched attractively, "come Monday... what would that phrase imply to y–"

"Jimmy Buffett, "Come Monday?" Silas took another bite of the apple he held. "Red likes that song."

Another thing she knew nothing about. In the grand scheme, it was such a minuscule thing but Red always said; it was the small details which truly mattered.

Shrugging, Liz searched for the song. Finding it, she hit play. And in just a few notes, she felt closer to Red. She always liked it... who didn't like Jimmy Buffett? Now, she liked the song more, knowing she and Red shared a common enjoyment of it.

She vaguely listened, wondering if he meant that he wouldn't be home until next Monday.

"You better not be gone seven days." she grumbled irritably.

Her fingers hovered over the keyboard, her mind wandering. She pulled up the lyrics, peering over the lines inquisitively.

Silas shook his head, watching the woman slip into profiler mode. Her focus intent and determined to unlock the mysterious puzzle.

Perhaps that was why Red had been so cryptic? He knew the woman enjoyed the hunt, the piecing together of all the puzzle pieces.

Liz scanned the words, studying them carefully. If Red was trying to remain on the down-low, maybe he was hinting a secret clue was hidden within the seemingly transparent words that sat before her so enigmatically.

Moving the cursor, she took the song back to the beginning, listening attentively for any sort of hint.

Was he headed to San Francisco? What was there of any real interest? Labor Day? No, that was months away.

Tapping her foot along with the melodic tune, she lay her head back into the sofa only to snap upright moments later, a thought surfacing.

Red had been in California four days, just as the singer mentioned. Was this a message about...

"Oh..." Liz turned up the volume. "Ohh..."

Was he telling her... he missed her? That he wanted her by his side?

Raising a hand to her mouth, she cast watery eyes to Silas.

The man sat, a wry grin overtaking his handsome face, "Houston, we have contact."

"Did he... is he...?" Liz gestured to the laptop. "Does he mean..."

"Red does love Jimmy Buffett." Silas repeated, as though that was all the answer she needed. "Not as much as he loves you... but damn near close."

The song continued, its message taking on an entirely new meaning. Tears dotted Liz's lashes, chuckling at what Red must have been thinking when he passed his words on to her.

It had indeed been an eventful spring, especially as they moved into summer, she had to agree with him on that. The song reminded her so many wonderful things had happened.

They had traveled extensively, spent a wonderful holiday together... they found themselves falling in love.

She startled when the melodic lyrics mentioned Montana.

She vividly recalled her conversation with Red in Montana about growing old together. Red said he harbored no doubt it would happen.

Liz looked out the windows of the high-rise, taking in the spectacular scenery. It was pretty... up here. But something was lacking. The magnificent scenery left her empty without Red beside her.

Goosebumps covered her arms in response, leaving her very melancholy and aching to see the man. Was this how he felt without her?

While she loved the idea that Red missed her, Liz also couldn't help but wonder... was he being worn thin by what was going on out there? Was he telling her, in a roundabout way he needed her?

An urgency over-took the woman. She turned from New York's fabulous skyline; her face animated, a thought having struck her fancy.

"Silas..." she hesitated, logistics boggling her over sensitized system, "I mean... would it be possible to..."

The guard was up and moving before Liz said his name, "I already called the private service."

Silas sensed the situation long before the woman. Especially after their earlier conversation. He had simply been waiting for her to catch up.

"Oh, no! It's too expensive. We couldn't." Liz wrung her hands, "Could we?" she bit her nail pensively.

"He left it here for you." Silas said.

"To return to D.C, not fly willy-nilly across the damn country on a flight of fancy–"

"He won't mind." Silas grinned, already dialing the number needed to confirm the flight time. "Trust me."

"This is insane." she muttered, dashing about, quickly gathering her laptop and other items scattered about. "I shouldn't do th–"

She rushed for the hall, pulling up short, "What about..."

"I will handle your team." Silas waved her off, phone to his ear. "This isn't my first rodeo, you know."

Liz nodded shortly, continuing onto her rooms.

Rapidly pulling clothes off the rack, she threw her things haphazardly into a bag. It took less than ten minutes to gather the last of their things which she stuffed into larger luggage.

Hitting replay on the song, she darted off to the bathroom, her excitement mounting. Rinsing quickly off in the shower, she dressed in fresh clothing. She'd worry about her hair and makeup later. She had time, once in flight.

Silas knocked on the door, "Liz, we can head out in forty-five minutes. Can you do it?"

"I'll be out in ten!" Liz yelled back, excitedly.

"This time..." she could hear Silas chuckling as he walked away, "you might actually be on time."

---

The first flight had been quick, but long. But only due to Liz's eagerness to see Red.

After their arrival at the airport, Silas had cheekily waved their goodbyes to Tom before shutting the door to the jet.

At least they would be without Tom's presence, as he would assume they were all headed back to DC.

As Liz and her team settled into their seats, everyone seemed in good spirits and ready to be on their way.

A collective groan filled the cabin when she was overheard quietly asking Silas about what to expect on Red's end of things before her arrival in California.

Liz quickly explained that due to her role in Red's life, he required her presence and she had to meet him after dropping them off.

It was only after assuring the team their services definitely were not required, did all really begin to... relax.

She couldn't blame Ressler for being the most vocal. The man looked haggard. She fretted when the agent graciously accepted the offered drink the flight attendant, Laura, provided.

Should he be partaking, was he on pain meds? Ressler had reassured her, however.

All had happily accepted a refreshment, aside from Moore. Liz grinned when the svelte woman Laura, turned away from the moody Agent, downing the drink herself.

Flight attendants were people too, apparently, affected by surly individuals like anyone else.

Laura grimaced, pulling up short. Two sets of eyes rested on her.

The flight attendant breathed a sigh of relief, finding Elizabeth giggling quietly behind her hand. The head guard, on the other hand, remained expressionless.

Laura was grateful when the young woman hit the guard's thigh playfully, sending him a 'loosen up' look.

Liz waved Silas off, smiling her sympathy at Laura. Letting her know without doubt, neither would say a cross word about her actions to Red.

Shortly after, they offloaded Liz's team, much to the relief of her guards... and herself, if she were honest. Goodbyes were said. She watched the SUV's drive off, eager to be on her way.

All breathed a collective sigh when the plane became airborne once again.

Listening to her guards bitch about her team sucking the atmosphere from the plane... though Samar was never once lumped into the fray, Liz shook her head at the antics. Other than that note of dissension they had a relatively decent flight.

She rested the first leg of the journey, but as they grew closer to their destination, she started putting herself to rights.

Red had once commented that he would find her just as attractive in a burlap sack, sans makeup... but that did not stop Liz from applying the warm shades, striving for a natural look that looked fresh and glowing.

She also took time to work curls into the heavy strands of her hair, giving the dark beauty shine, volume and bounce.

She looked herself over in the mirror, her confidence fairly radiating back at her.

Alerted to their approaching descent, Liz packed her battle gear before returning to her seat.

Silas gave her a once over, giving the woman an appreciative nod, "You're passable."

"And you are a god." she muttered, stowing her bag, taking a seat.

"Don't I know it." Silas was happy with the response.

After their arrival, the guys had quickly loaded the car. They set off towards their destination. Liz's spirits rising one second, sinking the next.

She stared vacantly at the passing scenery, her thoughts bouncing from problem to problem.

"It's Tom, isn't it?" Liz muttered from the back.

"What?" Silas glowered, searching instantly over his shoulders for the little prick.

"No," Liz waved aside the man's attempts, "the guys. They're playing hide and seek with Tom... that's what's going on."

"Very astute reasoning." Silas grinned, settling back in his seat. "You should be like, a profiler, or something."

Liz rolled her eyes expressively, "And when they catch him?"

Silas explained the rules of engagement to a point, concluding, "They must allow him the chance to escape." he ended sourly.

"What the hell?" Liz grumbled. "They have him, why not–"

"Kill him?" Silas filled in sardonically, his brows lifting innocently.

"Well, yeah. It's only fair play." Liz shrugged, then questioned the easily stated words.

"If you kill it," Joe explained helpfully, "you catch, you skin it and mount it on your wall."

Liz piped up eagerly pointing excitedly at her comrade in arms, "Yeah, yeah... exactly!"

"You've become bloodthirsty." Silas stated. "It's a good look for you."

Liz found herself nodding her head graciously, accepting the praise, before catching herself yet again.

"Surely this conversation is wrong... on so many levels." she shrugged after a moment, getting lost in her thoughts once more.

They entered heavier traffic, but Joe expertly navigated his way through it, throwing out an occasional curse at drivers as he passed.

"Am I doing the right thing?" Liz asked herself, so confused and befuddled suddenly. She thought seriously of turning around and heading back to the airport.

"I think you are." Silas replied from the front, his tone mellow and confident

"I said that out loud?" Liz said, looking about her surroundings totally bemused.

"He will be very pleased to see you." Silas assured. "If I thought otherwise..."

Liz took a cleansing breath to settle her nerves, "He doesn't know I'm here though, right?" she still had a chance to bolt.

"I assumed you wanted it to be a surprise."

She nodded, "Okay. Yeah... I guess. Wait, we don't even know where he's stay..." she stopped when Silas glanced over his shoulder, his expression saying it all. "Right. Of course you do."

"We'll be there in a few minutes." he looked out his window, taking in the neighboring vehicles. "Just relax."

Settling back into the leather, she tried to follow that suggestion.

Pulling up to the hotel, Liz couldn't help but be impressed. Each new place they visited left her in awe, some more than others. But still awed, none the less. When would she become blasé about the magnificent structures, she wondered?

Silas walked to the front desk, as were per custom, leaving her in Joe's company. She stood, looking around the plush setting.

It was rather, homey. Something she did not expect from the outside exterior.

The entire length of the large lobby was aglow with warm light reflecting from simple, yet intricate chandeliers. Rich earth tones and raw stone made her feel instantly at ease.

It charmed her to see comfortable sitting areas unobtrusively placed strategically throughout the large room.

The soothing atmosphere had nice flow but was also extremely functional.

Silas walked back to her a few minutes later, carrying a set of key cards. He handed one to Joe as he gestured to the elevator banks.

"How did you get his room key?" Liz asked accepting the card he handed her.

"This is my key." he said, flipping the plastic about in nimble fingers. "He always leaves one in case of emergencies, no matter if we're traveling together or not." they stepped into the available lift. "You gonna call him?"

"Do you think I should?" the woman was instantly concerned for a moment that Silas might be warning her it might not be wise to simply appear on scene unannounced.

What did he think they might happen upon? A business meeting? A party? Another woman...

"I think he will enjoy the surprise more if you don't." the guard's words took her by surprise.

So Silas didn't think there was anything to worry about. She felt her stomach flip. If she only felt the same way.

The elevator stopped its climb at the top floor. Again with the penthouse. Red loved his high rise.

He often said, in the past, money is for spending. Purchasing the good things in life, otherwise... what was it good for?

Silas walked down the hallway, Joe at his back. The large guard proceeded Liz, knocking on the door in a rather peculiar rhythm.

The guy exchanged glances with his side-kick before venturing boldly forth. He swiped the card as he opened the door very slowly.

"Knock, knock..." he called out cautiously peering about the door facing.

This seemed to be taking an inordinate amount of time. And now, knocking on Red's door as if she were a stranger visiting.

"I didn't want my head to get blown off." Silas muttered, reading her expression well. He pushed the door open, proceeding her as a precaution. Though, they were met by silence. "He must still be in the meeting."

She should not have come. Suddenly the excitement of her decision in New York faded, melting into indecision and regret.

Silas grabbed their bags, ushering her through the luxurious rooms. They arrived at the master suite in no time.

"If you want to settle in..." he sat her bag on the large king bed, heading for the door, "I'm going to stow my bag." he studied her for a long beat. "Give Joe a chance to get his bearings."

She stood in the middle of the room, glancing about aimlessly.

"You all have rooms here?" she gestured to the rest of the unseen suite.

"No, Joe and the other guards have their own quarters on this floor." Silas informed. "It's specifically for security." he said. "I'm down the hall here, beside Dembe." he jerked his thumb. "You okay?"

Liz closed her mouth, forcing a smile, "I'm great!"

"Uh huh..." Silas hesitated knowing something was amiss, but then took his leave, allowing her to adapt to her surroundings in private.

Liz stood, taking in the quiet of the room. Which was meticulously clean.

Red was not a normal kind of guy in any respect. He said it was his years of Naval training... and his ex-wife. And Liz assumed, in case he had to leave on a whim, no trace of himself would be left behind.

He picked up after himself.

There were no signs of his clothing or luggage anywhere.

He would have 'stowed' it all ready.

She searched about for small things. A watch. Red always packed three. Why? Who knew?

She made a mental note to ask.

A tie clip lay on the side table by the bed.

Red's side.

Change lay neatly in a silver tray next to the clip.

Red never carried change on his person. He said it spoiled the cut of his suit to have change in his pockets.

Liz smiled.

Realizing she was just standing, she absently crossed to her luggage, opening the valise more to have something with which to occupy her troubled mind.

Maybe this was a bad idea.

She wanted desperately to see Red. But what if he thought of this time apart as a welcomed respite?

Maybe she had misread the cryptic, "Come Monday", message.

Maybe he needed a small break from...

Liz sighed heavily, chastising herself. She was being silly. Of course Red would want to see her. Her surprise visit would delight him.

She shook free of such annoying thoughts.

She pulled her things free, stowing them in their proper place. She never bothered unpacking before. Living out of a suitcase was unsettling however.

Red always made a home where ever he lay his head.

Since she picked up on the habit, Liz realized, she felt more attuned to her surroundings. Which is why Red adopted the practice himself, she supposed?

She took several blouses, heading for the walk-in closet. She stopped slowly, her mouth pulling into a soft smile. Red's things were lined neatly on one side.

His side.

The wash basin had been the same. Red's articles placed fastidiously on one side.

It was as if he were waiting for her.

She felt infinitely better, a definite spring back in her step finally as she moved on.

After getting her things situated, Liz did a once over, applying fresh make-up and giving a quick bounce to her hair when she heard movement in the front. She halted, comb lifted when a distinctive click alerted her to someone entering the suite.

Red was here!

She scurried to the hall, her excitement barely contained. Her steps halted abruptly when a woman's voice filtered down the corridor in which she now stood.

She inhaled sharply, before catching the sound physically with a hand over her mouth.

Tentatively peeking around the corner, she watched Red being trailed slowly by a gorgeous blonde traipsing the outer room.

He glanced around aimlessly, sighing his discontent. "Where the hell did that idiot..." he grumbled, "ah, here it is." he picked up a folder off a nearby table. "Francis had it earlier, it's a wonder I found it at all."

Liz fell silent, easing back into the dark shadows, uncertain of her next move. She fluctuated in her decision making. This was not at all how she envisioned their reunion.

"Look over the terms and conditions," Red said, holding out the manila folder to the woman, "and if it works for you, we'll discuss a price we can hopefully agree upon."

The blonde smiled, tapping the stiff paper against her palm before laying it aside.

"Better yet..." Liz could not resist a peak. The curvaceous woman walk seductively towards Red, smiling, "why don't we cut to the chase here." she was saying. "I'll agree to the terms, you ship for me, then we can spend the rest of the evening negotiating a set of terms that works best for both of us... in the bedroom."

She reached out, pulling at the knot of his tie... Liz's mouth fell agape for such audacity.

Red reached, halting her intent.

Unnoticed by Liz, her guard had suddenly emerged from his room.

Silas read the scene immediately, instinct telling him to hang back until he assessed the situation.

His little brunette charge stared nervously out at whatever was taking place. He could hear voices quiet clearly, deciding to wait it out.

He could discern from the conversation taking place that the female was making a move on Reddington... not an unheard of occurrence.

"I'm very flattered by the generous offer, but I will have to decline." Red's tone was both respectful yet firm.

"If you think there is an issue with stepping on Luca's toes," the blonde said, "don't worry, we are over...gone our separate ways, as it were."

"I'm sorry to hear that," Red replied genuinely, "but my refusal is of a personal nature." he stepped back, heading for the bar. "Would you like a drink while you look over the contract?"

The woman laughed quietly, following slowly after him. Liz narrowed her eyes as the woman stealthily stalked Red, her curves swaying suggestively in the skintight dress.

"I never thought I'd see the day Red Reddington would play hard to get." She smirked, leaning her shapely hip against the bar. "It's unexpectedly... charming."

Silas hoped Red kept his head about him. That his boss would make him proud. Because... in similar situations pre-Liz... Red would fuck the blonde, no questions asked.

Red poured their drinks, sliding one across the granite to the woman.

"You flatter me." Red was determined to be polite. "But no, that is not the case at all. I'm engaged, you see. To a most lovely, adora–"

"If you're worried about my being discrete..." the woman cut the explanation short, "Honey, I'm not interested in anything long term. You should know me better than that by now."

Red shifted noncommittal eyes.

Silas was pretty sure Red was going to get a couple good whacks out of this one if Liz's expression was any criteria by which to judge.

"I'm happy for you and your little... plaything, truly, I am." blondie sounded sincere, but her eyes were measuring the man in a most interested manner. "We are both seasoned individuals, surely." she shrugged. "...My interests lie more in all the sordid tales of that amazing cock I've heard so much about."

"All of which are greatly exaggerated, I'm sure." Red hefted his glass, sipping a small drink. "Greatly...I emphasize." he modestly added.

"And while you and I may be... seasoned about such things. My fiancée is delightfully... not." he sat the drink aside. "She would see any breach of trust as just that... a breach... of trust."

"How utterly... quaint." the woman sensed the man's decision was final. "Can't blame a girl for trying." she shrugged carelessly.

"You are a beautiful, desirable woman and in the past..." Red shrugged as well. "I've found something... unique. I have every intention of keeping it intact."

The woman studied him for a long beat, "I had that once." she scoffed. "Or thought I did." she lifted her glass. "Here's to hoping your Camelot never loses its shiny exterior... but if it ever does," she laughed hollowly, "you know where to find me."

Red nodded minutely, "And your King Arthur... Luca?"

"Hardly." she chuckled, appreciating good wit when she heard it. "It was a lifetime ago and trust me, Salvador could never be mistaken for the great King, although..." she turned melancholy for a brief second, "... to me... he was."

Red felt her sadness acutely, but business was business.

"My cock and its fucking activities have been reserved for my Guinevere." Red tipped his glass, emptying it before sitting it on the bar. "Sad, but true." he said in a droll tone, a smile tugging at his mouth.

The woman laughed, "From what I hear, she's a lucky girl."

Red shook his head, "I am the fortunate one."

"No." the woman sat her drink aside. "Believe me... she is." she tapped the folder with well-manicured nails. "I'll look this over and have an answer by tomorrow."

Red smiled pleasantly, "Nothing is written in stone. I'm flexible on my terms." he could be magnanimous.

The woman had taken the rejection with a modicum of grace and style which he admired.

"That rejection alone should net me another..." she mused, "five percent?"

Red mused, "...Two percent."

She chuckled, "Better than nothing. I'll take it."

Liz stood hard against the coolness of the wall, her eyes blinking back tears of joy.

The blonde lady was beautiful and built like a work of art. She had amazing breasts, a fantastic ass... and she had laid her charms on thick. Most men would have fallen hook, line and sinker.

Three months ago, he might have. But tonight, Red wasn't biting.

Silas emerged out of nowhere, startling the girl. She blinked wide eyes his way.

How long had he been standing there?

She flushed, embarrassed.

He offered a shit-eating grin but let her off the hook, turning his attention to the occupants of the massive living area.

The woman was walking to the door, Red trailing behind.

Liz blotted her eyes hastily, wondering if her carefully made-up face was still half-way presentable.

Silas watched Red guide his associate out the door, exchanging inane pleasantries.

The large guard spared Elizabeth a glance.

She was more composed now, taking in deep breaths.

Red headed back to the bar, grasping the heavy tumbler in his hand, tapping it idly on the thick granite.

He sighed heavily, pouring another drink, downing it quickly.

He leaned into his arms, hanging his head dejectedly.

Snagging the remote in hand, he pointed it out into the room, rolling his tense shoulders as the sound of Jimmy Buffett filled the room.

Liz shared a bright smile with her guard as the sound of the music drifted down the hall. She sniffled quietly, a rush of relief washing over her.

Peeking around the corner, she wavered a bit in her stance. She was unsure what Red's mood might be at this point.

Had he been tempted by the seductress? Had he been aroused?

Silas urged her out, gesturing curtly... twice.

Liz reluctantly moved out into the brightness of the room.

"Hey..." she called out softly.

Red jerked his head to the right, watching the woman step down into the living room.

"Lizzy?" his expression was incredulous. "...What the..."

"I hope you don't mind, but..." she smiled warmly at the man who sat his drink down quickly, "I couldn't wait until Monday."

Red beamed happily, the tension in his frame vanishing in the blink of an eye, "God no, I don't mind."

Stepping out from behind the bar, he made a beeline for her.

Liz chuckled quietly as the man swept her up in a crushing bear hug, squeezing the air from her body.

"My God... I can't believe you're here!" he whispered, his eyes drinking in the sight seconds before he kissed her... deeply...ardently.

Liz returned the kiss passionately.

Finally, allowing the woman a breath, Red opened his eyes, staring contentedly at her upturned face, waiting patiently now.

Liz guessed the rhetorical question on his mind, wincing slightly having to confront her literal flight of fancy, "I guess you're wondering–"

"We took the jet." Silas saved her from answering, sauntering into the area, hands in proverbial pockets.

"Did you have a good flight?" Red asked, guiding her to the bar, helping her hop up on the stool. "Was the crew accommodating?" he held up a beer, offering it to Silas, then pulled down a wine glass.

"Yes, it was very smooth, fast..." she smiled. "Everyone was fantastic."

Red's eyes swept her frame, taking her in. He was incredibly pleased she was here.

"Where's your boot?" he frowned, pointing to the bare leg.

"The doctor at the hotel gave me the go ahead to remove it." she smiled happily, lifting her leg high to prove all was well.

Red instantly shifted questioning eyes to Silas, needing the guard's input.

Silas chuckled quietly when Liz gasped indignantly at the slight, "Everything checked out fine." he assured his boss and friend. "Don't be such a nudge."

"Dembe and the others are playing poker, if you're interested." Red jerked his head, gesturing to the guards' quarters' next door.

Silas looked between the two, catching a hint when he heard one. "And on that subtle note..." he gulped his beer, headed to the nearest exit, a swing to his step.

Red smiled, his mood very much improved now that Lizzy was here. "We're staying in." he chose to ignore the guard.

"Wow... what a shocker of a statement." Silas muttered sarcastically.

"I'm starving." Liz shrugged apologetically. Odd, her appetite had been nonexistent all morning. Now, she was famished.

"Room service?" Red offered, pleased when she nodded eagerly.

Sliding her a menu, "Not that I'm not inordinately pleased that you are here..." Red stepped between Lizzy's open legs, the outside world falling away, "but I didn't think you'd fly a couple thousand miles for–"

"It sounded like you needed to see a friendly face." she looked pointedly at the radio and the song it was playing.

"I missed you," he pulled her close, dipping his nose into her neckline, breathing in her fragrance, "...so very much."

Liz smiled into his shoulder hugging him dearly. They swayed gently, and she wondered if the man was even aware he was doing so.

The song came to an end, leaving the couple in comfortable silence.

The moment stretched into infinity before Red gathered his wits. "I'm sorry, sweetheart." he pulled back, looking down at her apologetically. "You said you were hungry, didn't you?"

He hung up the phone, both having made their selections from the menu.

"It'll be here in about fifteen... twenty minutes." he said, lifting his hand, stroking her cheek line.

She smiled up at the man, before snuggling into him again. "It's really okay..." she questioned quietly, "that I'm here?"

"Of course. I've never been so..." Red sighed, leaning his forehead into hers, "I'm thrilled you're here, Lizzy."

"Is something wrong, Red?" she frowned a little, the man's tired demeanor worrying her a tad.

"It's just been a long couple days. Negotiations have been complicated," he murmured, "and as I'm sure you witnessed," he quirked his brow meaningfully, "...tedious."

Liz shrugged slightly, "I didn't mean to.." she didn't realize he had guessed she had listened to his chat with the blonde, "I was just..."

"Making sure I kept it in my pants?" Red assumed.

"Aside from being proud of you for resisting her... charms." Liz allowed his assumption. "It's difficult not knowing what I'm allowed to do at such a moment."

"What did you want to do?" he teased.

Liz sighed heavily, falling back into her chair, "...She is an associate." she scowled. "A jealousy display is not exactly a mature, rational response." she lifted honest eyes. "I don't want to embarrass you."

"And were you," he probed, "jealous?"

She scowled at him, "Tell me what I should have done."

Red scowled right back, "Protect yourself, at any and all costs."

"And you?" she questioned. "When do I protect your virtue?" a smile played at her lips.

"I had no interest in that woman, what-so-ever." Red reminded honestly.

"I wasn't implying you did." Liz said. "I just wondered, if I stepped out and made my presence known, would it cause problems in your work?"

"I told you," Red connected eyes with her, "you are my main priority. Nothing else."

Liz took in the man's posture and the words, looking for the truth in them.

"You do whatever you feel you need to, Lizzy." Red reasserted his feelings on the matter. "I will support you."

After a few seconds, Liz inclined her head in silent assent.

"You look exhausted." she changed the subject.

"Sleeping has been sporadic." he smiled.

"Long meetings?" she questioned.

"That..." he nodded, "but mainly, I missed my security blanket." he rubbed his nose along hers, drawing a smile from the woman.

She had missed him too, and had to admit, it had been hell going to sleep without him.

"That cryptic farewell remark..." she grinned up at him, a playful lilt in her voice, "did you essentially dedicate a song to me?"

Red chuckled after a second, nodding. "Yes, I guess I did." he fully admitted. "In my own way."

A soft knock on the door broke the two apart.

"Do you have your weapon?" Red asked quietly, quickly directing her to safety.

Liz shook her head, grimacing for her oversight, "It's in the bedroom."

Red pulled his extra piece, shoving it in her hand before gesturing her to the darkened hall. She did as asked, scurrying across the room as he approached the door.

Standing to the side, he stretched, tapping out another distinct rap on the facing. He received a reply in kind.

She witnessed the man's tenseness fade. He stepped, opening the door having hidden his weapon beforehand.

It was only their dinner arriving but a fully armed guard accompanied even that, Liz noted.

Red tipped the waiter, nodding his gratitude to that guard.

And once again, the room was quiet and secure.

"Come and eat, sweetheart." Red said, setting the covered dishes and iced tea on the long dining table.

Liz emerged from the darkened hallway, a fixed smile on her face.

A short time later, appetites having been satisfied, the couple sat, enjoying coffee and what remained of their scrumptious meal.

Twinkling lights of the city spread out below their windows like small diamonds scattered about haphazardly by a powerful sweep of an unseen hand.

Red was not usually as talkative as he was proving tonight. He often deferred to her, allowing Liz to take the lead in which way the conversation would flow.

Four days spent apart was a long time. There was so much to catch up on.

Liz was a good listener and enjoyed when the man opened up so freely in her presence.

Tonight, she found her thoughts wandering here and there several times having lost the topic of the man's words.

"Am I boring you?" Red chuckled, having picked up on the fact.

Liz's face softened, "One thing you never are, Red Reddington... is boring." she pulled herself back into the fray.

"Are you tired?" his expression took on a concerned slant.

"Not at all." she shook her head. "It's just a silly woman thing." she managed a smile.

"So share this 'silly woman thing'," Red suggested, placing his fork aside, his attention focused, "with a man who gives a damn."

"I know you do," the lovely mouth pulled into a gentle smile, "and I love you for it but it's really not that import–"

"It's important," Red corrected, "to me."

Liz sat back, realizing what an incredible man she had found, "You'll laugh at me."

"I'm not Silas." his eyes were steady, fixed. His finger tapped idly against the tabletop, waiting for her to confide in him.

She chuckled easily, "Thank the Lord." the woman shifted about wondering how to put what had been troubling her into words.

"...I got my period." she blurted, realizing suddenly just how inappropriate a subject this was over a dinner table of all things.

Red's eyes shifted to the deep grain of the table... processing the unexpected information, "...Okay."

He wasn't certain how to proceed or how to even respond just yet.

"No, I mean," Liz stressed, "...I'm not pregnant."

Red's hand stilled, his wine glass inches from his mouth. He slowly set it aside, nodding minutely, his brow furrowing.

"I was under the impression Mr. Kaplan had settled this issue." he sought her out. "Are you saying, you think she could have been wrong in her–"

"I know what she said," Liz pushed her fork through her mashed potatoes, "...I just thought," she fidgeted aimlessly in her seat, "it was a little early, to...I mean, wasn't it?"

Red felt a shift in the space between them, something that told him... tread carefully here.

The woman had been harboring this 'secret' with her for days, obviously. She had not been able to fully accept Kaplan's results.

Red took the time needed, studying the woman across from him intently.

What had brought this on?

Liz sat, worrying her napkin with unsteady fingers. She refused, as yet, to seek out his eyes.

A realization dawned on the man.

"You know what I think," he ventured forth his theory, the silence surrounding them like a warm blanket suddenly.

Liz's eyes shot to his, "...No."

There was hope and expectation in those eyes that touched him.

"...Unlike other couples who have gone through the... anticipation," he felt his way, "trepidation, and, in some cases," he teased with his look, "relief, in whatever form, staring at that pregnancy test takes..."

Liz lifted resigned brows.

"...A moment, a very private and intimate one... was taken away from us."

He idly tapped the table, his mind calculating, swirling about to solve the problem presented.

"I would give anything to have that moment back, Lizzy." he sought her out. "What about you?"

Liz was confounded by the question, "Well, it can't be brought back."

"Can't it?"

"Well... no." Liz was pretty sure that ship had sailed.

Maybe there was a way.

"This bleeding you mentioned," he questioned, "are you certain it's your period?"

Liz questioned the question with a look.

"My ex-wife experienced breakthrough bleeding when she was pregnant with Jennifer."

"I... it feels pretty normal?" Liz frowned slightly. She had heard of that breakthrough bleeding thing before, but didn't know much about it.

"I'll tell you what." Red leaned into the table on his forearms. "I'll run down, get a pregnancy test and we'll just make sure, all right?"

He pushed back his seat, gathering their plates as he went. "I'm sure you're right, Lizzy." he soothed the woman. She had fallen silent and he could not read her mood or stress level.

"I just want to double check." Red braced his arms on the table. "Doesn't hurt to get a second opinion," he leaned, kissing her lips, "does it?"

"I think this is just... normal." Liz hesitated.

She didn't feel any different, anyway? She felt like she always did during her period. Some days were okay, some days she felt like one of the walking dead.

"Maybe we shouldn't fuss." she blinked those huge eyes up at him. "And Mr. Kaplan said... I wasn't."

"Kate is not infallible." Red's eyes held hers easily. "Sit tight."

She pushed her chair back, watching the man take his leave. He smiled brightly at the guard in passing, waving the man off when he went to follow.

"You're being silly." Liz told herself after the door closed, blocking sight of Red.

Walking back to the master, she went about her earlier activities.

Setting out her toiletries and what not, appreciating the busy work, her mind too hectic, her thoughts uneven. She paced the room restlessly.

She noticeably startled when she heard the door close to the penthouse. She had not heard it open, so deep in her reverie was she.

Red entered the master, pharmacy bag in hand.

"Calm down." the man smiled gently, having seen her state of nerves. "It's just so we are sure."

"I know." she nodded quickly. "I don't know why I'm so jumpy."

He could think of a few reasons, but now wasn't the time to dump them on her. He handed her the box, leaning back into the counter folding his arms over his chest.

Liz opened the box, pulling a test free. Red watched as she tried to tear the package open but her hands were shaking so badly, it brought a scowl of concern to the man's face.

"Are you all right?" He placed his hand over hers, taking the wrapped stick.

"Yeah, sorry." she reddened with embarrassment. "I've done these so many times, I guess it's an ingrained nervousness... with Tom, I mean." she hastened.

"Did you want a child, Lizzy?"

"I don't think I did, upon reflection." the reality troubled her. "I think, even before we started the adoption process, I sensed... something wasn't exactly right."

Once or twice when they settled in the brownstone, she remembered a subdued excitement, though. When things were good. There had been good times, or what she perceived as 'good'.

But the let-down she expected, when the test was negative, never really materialized.

"Whatever the outcome, we're in this together, Lizzy." Red stressed.

She took a deep breath and smiled before turning to the private toilet. She came out a minute later, sitting the test on the counter.

She stood, staring at it, without blinking...her mind chaotic with possibilities.

Red stepped in behind her, wrapping his arms about her waist, softly kissing the nape of her neck, sensing her state.

"Did you enjoy some off-time with your team before you left?" the man distracted her.

"Huh?" Liz looked up into the mirror, looking at his reflection, her thoughts miles away. "Oh...oh, yes. Last night." she confirmed.

"We went to that hole in the wall joint you recommended." she smiled at him, "and it was great. Everything was amazing. The food, the service..." she hesitated, "then the bar you said to check out."

Red grinned, "A fun place, yes?"

"Very!" she giggled. "Aram about got a dart stuck in his neck." she narrowed her eyes at the man, though playfully. "Was that part of your diabolical plan for us?"

"I did so want your time in New York to be memorable." he chuckled, falling into the stressed lightness.

"Silas didn't throw that dart... did he?" Red questioned Silas' wicked sense of humor.

"No..." she laughed. "Why would you ask that?"

"Silas has unique ways of warding off potential competition." Red knew the guy's modus operandi.

"What are you talking about?" Red fully caught her attention.

"Silas is interested in," Red searched for an acceptable way to phrase it, "...Samar's feminine charms."

Liz gasped, shocked and slightly alarmed, "Are you saying," she shook her head fretfully, "...Silas wants to bang Samar?!"

"So much for subtlety." he chuckled then glanced at his watch. Five minutes had passed. More than enough time. He dropped his eyes meaningfully to the test.

Red lifted the stick eye level, getting her attention. She snapped her mouth shut, squinting at the results, but her eyes simply refused to focus.

"What does it say?" she looked up at him again.

Red laughed quietly, showing her the results right beside his thumb. "One line, not pregnant. Two lines, pregnant."

She stared at it again, while he waited for her to comprehend what her senses were telling her.

Red chuckled, dropping a kiss in her fragrant hair. "You're not pregnant, baby."

"You're sure?" she lifted wide clear eyes.

"I'm positive."

"It could be a false negative." was she grasping at straws and if so... why?

He roughly figured the time passed since her ovulation days, reminding himself if nothing else, to pay better attention to that detail from now on, "If you were pregnant, this thing would light up like a Christmas tree."

His ex-wife began testing the day after they made love. Each day it showed up with a single pink line. A couple days before her scheduled period, all that changed when both lines glowed a neon pink. Alerting them Jennifer was on her way.

"Okay." Liz nodded, processing the information.

Red dropped the test, gathering her in his arms, "How do you feel about all this?"

"I..." she hesitated, laying her head against his shoulder, "I don't know."

"Are you..." he drawled, "upset or relieved."

"I'm not sure, exactly." she replied honestly. "Maybe a little of both."

Red understood. He felt the same way. It just wasn't time for the woman. He knew as much.

"Are you..." she hesitated, "upset or relieved?"

Red pondered a moment on how to answer that question. He never lied to her but then, how to say the words correctly...

"I was perfectly fine with either outcome." he confessed. "I embrace the idea of more alone time with you." he admitted. "But I am more than prepared to start our life together in earnest. A child is part of that equation... at least, for me, Elizabeth."

Liz released the breath she'd been holding, nodding her understanding. "You really would have been okay with–"

"Absolutely." Red replied quickly.

He refrained from returning the question. Elizabeth was unsure of her feelings on the matter. But then, she was in a different stage of her life than he.

He was at that age where he felt secure and ready for anything thrown his way. He knew what he wanted in life.

Lizzy was still trying to find her footing.

They had ample time to explore that avenue.

"I confess, there is a part of me that is... disappointed." he confessed, realizing the truth was best for them.

Liz's eyes blinked, shocked by his answer, "Really?"

Red framed her face with his hands.

"Yes." he lay a gentle kiss on her lips.

Gathering her in his arms, he hugged the woman, giving them both a moment of quiet introspection... just like they should have been allowed to experience in the first place.

He was shocked to realize; it was a moment he had desperately needed.

Liz inched closer, snuggling into his embrace, sensing Red needed this... as much as she did.

A hospital setting... and the dire circumstances of the day had not been a proper place in which to immerse themselves in the emotions both were experiencing.

Liz was a whirlwind of confusion. She was at once relieved, sad, elated, crestfallen... but here in Red's hold, she just felt loved and incredibly safe.

Red was glad he listened to his heart. Even if he sensed the outcome would remain the same... he at least gave them a semblance of what was stolen away.

Closure.

A closure that secured a connection... a reality between them that wasn't there before.

"We can try again..." Liz murmured quietly, "sometime."

Red pulled back at the unexpected statement, smiling softly, finding the same uncertainty in her eyes.

"Now, whatever shall we do to pass the time for the rest of the evening?" he changed the subject, muttering into the woman's neckline, making her giggle.

She turned in his arms, kissing him. "I can think of a few things..."

"Yeah?" he asked with great interest. "What do you suggest we do?"

"A rousing game of Chinese checkers?" she lifted innocent eyes.

He had been without Lizzy for four damn days. Four long days. "While I find the suggestion very difficult to refuse..." he managed tongue-in-cheek, his arms tightening about her small waist, "...I have another activity in mind."

"Whatever could it be?" she feigned ignorance.

"Let's just say..." Red's eyes fell to the full, pouty mouth, "it doesn't involve using a condom... does it?"

Liz liked that Red gave the choice over to her.

The man waited patiently, the look he gave heating her blood quite nicely.

He was asking something more, however. He needed to know her future thoughts on the matter.

"I had my heart set on checkers but..." Liz sighed evenly, easing her thighs closer to his straining bulge, "gosh... what you said sounds fun too."

"Doesn't it?" Red's tone deepened erotically.

She crinkled her nose adorably, "That condom thing..." distaste tinged her statement, "they are just so time consuming, don't you think?"

"Oh, hell yeah." Red was quick to agree. "And to be honest, I don't even think there are any in the room."

"You'd have to go back down to the pharmacy," she commiserated, her hand easing over the prominent bulge in his trousers, "which might break the mood."

"God knows." Red's eyes closed, his breathing a little more taxed suddenly. He savored the familiar touch. His Lizzy had become quite the expert when it came to handling him. "Knowing you, I'd return to a completely set-up checker board."

"Not completely..." she gently squeezed the hardening flesh. "You know, I just get so flighty and distracted, keeping a handle on those balls."

Red's brows rose exponentially. His gaze lowered to Elizabeth's activities as she artfully demonstrated her ability at handling things.

She tiptoed, her lips caressing his with more than a hint of passion present. "You'll forgive me... won't you?"

"Baby, I would forgive you anything." he stated so simplistically, the woman was a little taken aback, the flirting put aside for a moment.

"Anything?" her brow quirked quizzically.

Red's eyes willfully held hers, "Anything, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth's heart swelled because the man made her believe him.

She tightened her slender arms about his neckline, leaning fully to his aroused state. Her mouth parted sensually for his provocative kiss, her insides melting.

Liz started visibly, the ring tone of Red's phone jarring the moment.

She pulled back, the mood tempered.

Red's head fell back, growling his disbelief, "What the hell," he lamented, "don't they understand about–"

"It's okay, honey..." Liz soothed hastily, "I'm the intruder this time." she reminded herself.

"You could never be–"

"Just see what's going on," she urged, "it might be Silas. If he's lost all his cash, you'll have to bail him out."

Red flipped the phone open angrily, "I'll bail his ass out," he barked into the phone, "right after I cut his dick off and feed it to the gold fish in the hotel's pond."

"The hotel has a pond?" Francis' wry amusement was the immediate response.

"What the hell do you want, Francis?" Red snapped.

"World peace." the young man chuckled for the other man's mood. "For you to get laid..." he commiserated. "Where are you?"

"My room," Red barked, "why?" he asked but was met with silence. The young man had hung up.

Red hung his head dejectedly. Why had the boy even calle–

"I should have known," Francis said as he sauntered without a care into the sanctuary of their room, "Lizzy had something to do with your sour mood."

Liz's head was swimming with the speed it had taken the man to intrude into their domain. She stared at the phone dangling in Red's hand, awestruck.

"When I informed you of my location," Red's ire was barely contained, "it was not meant as an invitation to join us."

"...Red," Liz pouted pseudo-seriously, softening the man's vexation.

Francis winked in her direction, moving about Red's bulk to kiss her cheeks. He shoved experimentally on Red's hold about the woman but Red shoved right back, his look incredulous.

Liz's lips trembled, barely controlling her amusement.

Francis chuckled quietly ignoring the man all together, "When did you get in?" he questioned the woman.

"What the hell do you want?!" Red interrupted the conversation before it could start.

Francis sighed, giving Liz a look, "He has issues..."

"She was fixing those issues when you interrupted!" Red grated.

Liz snuggled closer to the man, rubbing her nose gently into his nape. She smiled when the Red's frame relaxed, his breathing lowering to a controlled level.

"Family can't interrupt." Francis seemed slightly confused by the accusation.

Liz tsked when Red's head snapped threateningly towards her friend, "Francis is not privy to the new rule." she reminded.

"What new rule?" Francis enquired.

"Ask Dembe." Red snapped. "Now, get out."

Francis beamed happily, but sobered, finally giving over the true reason for the call, "You're wanted downstairs."

Red sighed more than heavily, his fate sealed, he realized.

"Duty calls..." Liz commiserated with the man, her eyes softening.

"They are ready to sign the agreement." Francis relayed. "But a few odds and ends are dangling."

"So... handle it." Red drawled his annoyance.

"They want your input." Francis broke the bad news.

Red's eyes searched out Elizabeth Keen's, the disappointment clearly visible.

"It's fine." she told the truth. "I'm just happy to be here... really." she felt a thousand times better in his presence.

"Go away..." Red murmured to the man beside them, needing a few private moments.

"I'll get a drink," Francis took the hint for a refreshing change, "I feel suddenly parched... don't I?" he glanced between the two, waiting patiently for a reply.

Red's arms snapped up with a velocity that actually made a whooshing sound, his index finger pointing decidedly to the exit.

Francis followed the trajectory obediently, "I'll take that as a yes."

Liz watched the man gingerly walk away, shaking her head minutely for his antics.

Red cupped the back of her head, pulling her gently into his sphere, his mouth claiming hers in a bold display of unrequited lust.

"I'm mildly content as well... that you are here," he responded to Liz's previous remark, his tone a husky mix of lascivious restraint and pent-up frustration. "I hate my fucking job right now."

Liz grinned at his mood, "Your fucking job let's you stay at a hotel that has fish in its pond."

"I made that up." he grumbled.

"I know," she soothed.

Red was grateful for her attempt to make their parting less stressful, "They're in the hotel beside us."

Liz smiled, handing him his jacket and fedora, "The sooner you go, the sooner you can be back."

Red looked at the articles morosely.

"Don't worry about me." she offered one last dig, happy to cheer him up a bit. "If you're too long, I'll just start... without you."

She batted innocent eyes his way, brushing a gentle hand over his shoulder, straightening the jacket.

The man offered a sardonic look, setting his hat in place, "You think I would be heartbroken to walk in on something like that taking place?"

Liz's mouth fell askew, "Oh..."

She allotted him the 'win' on that one, "A mark for you."

Red grinned wolfishly, pleased he had gained ground in the round.

Liz rolled her eyes slightly before seeing the hint of challenge in his, "Don't think I won't."

"Oh, I hope you will." the man grinned confidently, sauntering to the door. Turning about, the smirk still on his handsome face. "Snap a few pictures along the way for me, will ya?"

Liz gave him a chastising glare, "I'll post them to your Twitter page."

"I don't have Twitter." he wasn't going to be out-done apparently. "You keep them in your phone... just for me to bask in later on."

The woman cocked her head, "Go bask with the little blonde that has the hots for you." she suggested.

"The only woman I'll be basking with," Red confided in a cocky manner, "... is you, in about an hours time, right here in this big, welcoming bed." he indicated the structure with a passing glance.

"If I say." Liz reminded, attempting to keep him in his place.

"I'll persuade you easily enough," Red lifted noble brows, "of that I am confident."

Liz could not keep the amusement from quirking her lips, as she walked the hall with Red hand in hand, joining Francis in the main room.

Red took the offered tumbler, taking a fortifying drink. The liquor warmed his throat, "Where's Silas, Joe?"

"I'm not going anywhere." Liz squeezed Red's hand. "They're just next door if I need anything."

"Right..." Francis pointed, remembering something, "I met Joe when I got here, he said they were swapping shifts so..." he jerked his thumb to the door.

A distinct rapping interrupted the conversation.

Red's hand instinctively sought out his weapon, as he patiently waited for the 'rapping' to sound out the needed code. Elizabeth moved closer to the man unaware she did so, waiting right alongside him.

They both watched in mock horror as Francis blithely crossed the space, throwing wide the door.

Outside the portal a gangly looking waiter stood, patiently waiting for just such an occurrence. He smiled politely and Red's hair lifted straight up on the back of his neck. Red drew his weapon.

"Lawford says hello." the man leaned cordially forward before producing a deadly looking Colt .45, silencer snugly in place.

In the back of Red's mind, he was vaguely aware of the sound of doors opening at either end of the hall. He hoped it meant what he needed it to.

The man instinctively sought out Elizabeth Keen.

"Shit!" Francis jerked away, slamming the door shut in the guy's face. "Down!" he suggested... politely.

Hooking Lizzy's waist, Red yanked the woman to the only refuge available, ducking her safely behind the bar. The door splintered with several well positioned shots.

The ornate lock broke free, clanging loudly to the marble floor. Another shot followed immediately, but it was oddly directed outside the penthouse.

A volley of muffled gunfire erupted in a rapid exchange.

An unseen battle ensued.

"Francis!" Liz yelped, surreptitiously glancing around the edge of the bar to locate her friend.

"Lizzy..." Red's stern tone quickly drew her attention. She took the pre-offered weapon, ducking her head just as the door gave way.

"Where are you, you moron!" Red grated raspingly, seeking out Francis as well.

"Here..." Francis whispered coming around behind a couch, just to their left. He waved jauntily with his weapon, sitting against the back of the sofa comfortably.

Silas and his men were on scene, Red sensed it.

He could also hear that the room had been breached. At least two men had gotten past the outside security.

Pulling Lizzy back, Red took her place. He listened carefully as the men meticulously searched the great room.

A shadow to his left directed his line of sight, shifting towards the threat.

Red gained Francis' wayward attention, alerting the kid to the reflection in the French doors.

They now had a perfect view of their enemies location.

Locking eyes with the woman beside him, Red motioned their intent, his expression hardening.

"Stay here." he whispered tightly.

With the men gaining on their position, Red turned back to Francis, immediate communication passing between them.

Liz gripped her weapon, readying herself, as Red gave a three count.

In one simultaneous movement, both men raised to their full height, fire bursting from their barrels in rapid succession.

The sudden quiet was unnerving.

Liz checked both men's stoic profiles, waiting on pins and needles, her weapon poised and steady. The woman was never so glad to hear her gruff guard's voice bellowing from the hall...

"Clear!"

"Clear..." Red answered in kind, his glance falling on Elizabeth's face.

Lowering his hand, he gallantly helped the woman to her feet as Silas and another guard came into the room. They immediately began a sweep of the suite.

"...You stayed." Red was not only amazed, he was immensely pleased.

"I've got your back..." Liz smiled warmly, "you've got mine."

Turning the hand in his, Red placed a gentle kiss on her fingers.

"We'll have this mess cleaned up in a few seconds." Silas reported back in, holstering his weapon as he spoke. "Dembe is on the floor below, doing damage control."

"Get Kaplan's team over here." Red nodded his gratitude, glancing around the broken debris of the foyer.

"This is right up her alley." Francis jumped on the bandwagon. "They'll have this to rights in no time."

Liz relaxed when all the men holstered their side arms. She glanced at her own weapon, realizing she had no where to put it. Red took it from her fingers with a chuckle.

"What the hell is Lawford's problem?" Francis bitched, kicking the wounded leg of the man he himself had downed moments before. He leaned menacingly over the man's form.

"I forgot to tell you," Liz winced, whispering to Red, "Lawford went ballistic when he found out about the syrup."

"Oh, for heaven's sake." Red rolled his eyes heavenward. "Francis!" he sought out the kid. "Lawford knows you rolled on him."

"What the hell did I do?" Francis threw his arms outward. "You told me to–"

"Yes, I told you to give me what you had on him," Red's jaw pulsed erratically, "not foist your entire supply of Canadian syrup on the bastard!"

"...Oh," Francis half nodded, "...that." he scoffed disgustedly. "That dude seriously needs to get a sense of humor."

Red wearily rubbed his eyes before sharing a knowing look with Dembe who had just arrived.

Liz dropped her face, the soft sound of distress muffled in her hands as she relived the proceeding moments in her mind.

Red frowned, instinctively reaching for the woman, "Lizzy?"

She lifted her reddened face, snorting, "He closed the door..." she wiped the tears of amusement from her face, "like that would stop a b-bullet." she clutched her middle, doubling over.

"I acted on instinct, okay!" Francis defended his actions. "It worked, didn't it!"

"You're an idiot!" Liz cackled.

Red shrugged helplessly because... it had been an idiotic thing to do. "You know that we never answer a door unless the code is given."

"What code?" Francis was immediately interested. "Were we issued decoder rings?"

Red threw up his hands in resigned resignation. He turned away unable to stomach another second.

Silas helpfully thumped out a rhythmic 'code' on the boy's head, "Remember this?"

"Ohh!" Francis rubbed his head gingerly. "Right! Yes, I do remember that now!"

All seemed to relax, the problem evidently cleared up.

"We should get downstairs." Francis looked at his watch. "They're waiting."

Red checked, not at all surprised to find Elizabeth nodding her agreement.

"They'll get it fixed in no time." she waved the man's worry aside. "Really, we'll be okay here."

"Am I the only sane one here?" Red questioned no one in particular.

"If you are," Francis pointed out, "it ain't saying much."

Red had as much as he could take. He pulled roughly on Silas' shirt sleeve, directing him aside, "I want this mess cleaned up before I return."

The head guard waved off the veiled threat, knowing exactly why Red wanted the premises cleared.

"I'm doing the best I can here!" Silas made mention.

"Go..." Liz inched closer to Red, "I have a bath waiting," leaning, she brushed soft lips against his, "and photos to take."

Red groaned meaningfully as visions of a very naked, very wet Lizzy floated in his mind's eye.

"We'll see who persuades whom, Red Reddington." Liz said as she sauntered past the man.

Red tilted his head, watching her little ass swish away.

His cock twitched accordingly but he staunchly reprimanded it.

Challenges were issued and one had decisions to make.

In this instance, Red believed that he couldn't lose either way.

Lizzy was back in her rightful place... right by his side.

Red began humming his favorite Jimmy Buffet song, the lyrics vividly alive in his memory. A smile graced his face, his entire demeanor totally relaxed and stress free.

Francis Holbrook followed after the man, a bewildered expression on his face. He checked with Dembe but found nothing amiss on the black man's handsome face, which was good enough for him.

He instantly started harmonizing with Red's efforts.

Red grinned over, appreciating the gesture.

Both men's voices raised effectively as the elevator doors closed on the impromptu performance.

---

AUTHOR NOTES: Song referenced, "Come Monday" by Jimmy Buffet