Burrowing into the warm covers, Liz stirred, naturally waking from a place of contentment and rest.
Reluctantly slitting her eyes open, she found the room draped in a hazy darkness.
Flitting her attention towards the French doors, the woman could just see sunlight peeking around the edges of heavy brocade curtains.
Brocade curtains?
Blinking her disorientation, she sat upright, holding the covers close to her naked body. Groggily rubbing her sleepy eyes, she glanced about her surroundings.
Like objects taking shape in a rolling fog, images from the night before gradually materialized in her mind's eye.
Hugging her pillow, Liz giggled under her breath, her cheeks warming.
Last night had been... an eye opener, in more ways than one.
The smile on her face slipped, then faded as other memories surfaced. The events that occurred before she found Red were more than saddening.
Liz lay back, curling into the luxurious sheets, the euphoric mood of seconds before replaced by the stark reality of facts she must face, just as Red would have to confront them.
She had awakened happy and excited to greet a new day.
Another woman, one she did not know but could feel total empathy with and for... had awakened to a nightmare.
The irony was not lost to Liz.
Elena faced the horror of a loved one lost to a senseless... dream of avarice.
Elena... that was the extent of this entity which had intruded upon Liz's joyous mood this morning.
Liz didn't even know this woman's last name as yet but... did it matter?
Pain and loss... grief were universal emotions shared by all humans.
Red liked and respected this woman, Liz sensed. She must be a good person.
And now, Elena had to face the world alone without the man she loved.
Liz wasn't sure she would be up to such a daunting task were situations reversed.
A prickle of fear eased its nefarious way into Liz's mind.
She could very well be in Elena's place one day...
Shaking away the dread, Liz refused its entrance any further into her psyche.
A slight scowl graced her brow. What could she do to help this Elena through such a horrible trauma? Was there anything anyone could do, really?
As soon as possible, after her morning coffee, Liz determined to sketch out a plan to ease the burden placed upon the other woman's shoulders.
She was not being flippant. It was an established fact. She was no good to anyone before her morning coffee. The thick, hearty brew cleared the cobwebs and started the creative juices flowing.
Stifling a yawn, a slow, satisfied smile lit Liz's features as she eased the aches from her body.
Red had taken liberties last night she had only read about in romance novels.
She had always wanted to experiment with previous partners, but didn't trust them enough to speak or act freely.
Even last night, she had tread lightly at first, feeling her way, gauging Red's reaction to her endeavors.
Sighing dreamily, Liz stretched her arms high above her head... moaning softly.
She always felt wonderful after a night in Red's bed but this morning, her body had never felt so incredibly... sated.
Though her muscles felt unbelievably lax and limber, her breasts and sex were deliciously heavy and tender.
Just as Red promised they would be...
She ached in the most glorious way and it felt beyond phenomenal.
Red had been so passionate... and assertive.
Her cheeks flushed as images of their lovemaking flashed in vivid technicolor behind her closed eyes.
Her heart fluttered in response, filling with an overwhelming desire and love for the man.
No one had ever made her feel so... beautiful, erotic, and desired.
She was sure if any spectator were to give their point of view on their previous night's vigorous activities, they would have called it animalistic in nature... maybe even debase.
She would disagree with that assessment, wholeheartedly.
Red gave a part of himself to her last night he kept hidden and locked away.
He tried to shield certain aspects of his personality from her, she knew, as to not sully her with the darkness he was immersed in on a daily basis.
A noble aspiration but an entirely unnecessary one, in Liz's humble opinion.
Last night had been a revelation.
It felt wonderful to be considered Red's anchor, as much as he was hers. It truly was as if they were meant to be, two hearts joined by one soul.
She held Red is such high regard, and now she knew... he returned those feelings in kind.
Red had not sent her away as Silas indicated Red had done with all the others before her.
She was special.
If speaking of anyone else, she would feel unsettled... even overwhelmed anyone held her in such high regard but... she didn't.
In reality, she could barely contain the joy in her heart that she found the man she was destined to be with for life.
Liz smiled to herself, her flesh humming with awareness. This go round, it was her good fortune to also be saddled with an intensely sensual lover.
Turning in the bed, she groaned her dismay when she found Red's side empty of his presence. She longed to see him suddenly... to be by his side.
Peering at the clock, she understood why the bed was vacant when she found it to be after nine. Red was a very early riser most days.
Tossing the blankets back, she left the comfort of her warm cocoon hastily grasping Red's discarded shirt which lay upon the end of the bed.
Slipping it over her nude frame, Liz absently buttoned it, warding off the slight chill the room emitted.
Or was it the absence of her lover that gave the impression?
Stumbling to the bath, Liz set about freshening up. She had plans she wished to implement regarding Elena... and would seek the source who would provide that needed information.
She also wanted to know how Red was fairing now in the light of day.
"We will find them, Reddington." Antonio assured the agitated man standing before him.
Red hung his head, a weight settling in his chest. The sorrow he felt that it had come to this... it was like a hot blade to the gut.
Antonio felt the younger man's burden acutely.
To lose a good friend to something so trivial; and then to eliminate another out of revenge...
No matter how long Antonio had been in the game, it still was a stab in the heart to encounter such... betrayal.
"Elizabeth shouldn't have..." Red shook his head, his words falling short.
"Elizabeth was right to call," Antonio countered quietly, "to seek our assistance."
Francis had already alerted Antonio to the problem, and both were making plans to handle the issue when he received Elizabeth's call.
He was incredibly pleased Elizabeth had come to him... had trusted him to answer her quest for assistance.
And that she had done so, against Reddington's wishes, amused him greatly.
He had clearly heard the younger man grousing in the background about Francis' aide being more than adequate while Elizabeth relayed what she required.
"It's my problem. Not yours." Red sighed. "I should be the one to–"
"You are too close to this," Antonio disagreed, "you will act impulsively."
Red lifted pained eyes to his friend... and mentor.
"You can no longer afford to do so," Antonio made the man see reason, "you have responsibilities yet."
Red stiffened, no longer accustomed to such freedom of speech in his presence. That anyone would also dare to restrict his freedom of movement...
He wanted to deny the man's perceptions, but the truth was, Antonio was correct.
There was so much Elizabeth did not understand. There were so many unknown variables in the future she was ill equipped to face alone as yet.
"Francis will secure a good deal of those who followed Miguel," Antonio granted, "but a majority of the more ruthless will follow tradition."
Red knew how the game worked. When one empire fell, another took its place. Those left behind had a choice to make.
Take their chances with Francis and hope they would emerge on top after the smoke cleared.
Or switch allegiance and follow the new ruler of Miguel's empire... no matter how inadvisable it was in this case...
Especially considering Red made it abundantly clear, he was on the warpath and out to avenge Miguel's spilled blood.
"Your men are ruthless and, quite frankly," Antonio admitted, "the best at what they do."
Red inclined his head, accepting the compliment of his men's skills.
"Even against an Army," Antonio knew for certain, "they would be victorious and have proven themselves in the past."
Red sensed a 'but' on the horizon.
"But some of the best you have," Antonio reminded, "guard what you love most in this world."
Red had made certain of that fact when he assigned Silas to Elizabeth's well being. He stressed her importance to the guard, so much so, Silas set about building a team around her that was damn near impenetrable.
"You are not taking those men from their duties." Antonio shook his head, vetoing the idea before it fully took shape. "Elizabeth's well-being trumps your taste for vengeance."
Red couldn't agree more. That was not the issue here.
"Which is why," Antonio locked eyes with the young man's, "you will remove yourself from this equation and allow cooler heads to prevail."
Red's eyes hardened, his tone brittle, "Oh, will I."
"You will, because..." Antonio nonchalantly waved aside Red's ire, "you know logic and reason when you hear them. Besides, do you think me so ancient," the keen eyes trained on Red, "or decrepit, I no longer have my uses?"
Narrowing his eyes, Red leaned into a nearby table, fuming. Why he was resisting the man's help... he could not have said. He only knew he resented it.
"You may give us the Intel you have gathered to date on Miguel's holdings," Antonio returned the dark look, "and advise the team on entry points... but that's as far as your involvement will go."
Red's temper flared, his outrage reaching a fevered pitch. "Miguel was my friend, it is my duty to–"
"I am taking steps to prevent your death!" Antonio snapped his growing anger.
Red gripped the chair beside him, controlling his fury. He knew Antonio respected and even enjoyed his company and would be angered were he to fall. The feeling was a mutual one.
But both would avenge the other's death, grieve and move on. It was the nature of the business.
He also was aware, Antonio was a master manipulator... his reasons had to go deeper than–
"You will not make me tell Elizabeth I failed to stop you from acting foolishly!" Antonio hissed.
Elizabeth... Red had thought of nothing but Elizabeth and how his actions would affect her.
It seemed, he was not the only one.
"I have heard the whisperings," Antonio aligned his eyes with Reddington's, "I know what is said of my involvement with Elizabeth."
Red, too, knew of the gossip. He was also aware Antonio had done nothing to dissuade the rumor. In fact, Antonio seemed to encourage the chatter.
He listened curiously, wondering where this was going. The other man had a reason, he would make it clear... or not... in his own time, Red also knew.
"Her father is... dead." Antonio stated.
"He is." Red need say no more on the subject. "But what has that–"
Antonio nodded, his assumption a correct one, "She yearns for a father-figure."
It had been obvious in his interactions with the girl.
"I hold great admiration and genuine affection for the child..." he shifted piercing eyes, "you are aware?"
Red nodded slowly, his ire cooling a bit.
"I align myself to this child... this woman." the old mobster was from the old-school. His word held power still.
"With that said," Antonio's presence filled the room, "I now make a decree," he locked steely eyes with Reddington. "One that could possibly put Elizabeth in grave danger unless," he held up a hand, "unless... I include an addendum to that decree no man can ever doubt."
Scowling, Red remained silent, his curiosity outweighing the vexation.
"I will make it clear, anyone who comes into her sphere in any way, shape or form," he leaned, facing Red stare for stare, "will incur my... displeasure."
Red found himself easing back for the icy coldness of that brittle gaze affected even him.
"I will make an example of this... woman, this Jezebel who turned brother against brother."
Of course, Antonio spoke of Lydia Flores, Red realized.
"I will see to it, anyone else thinking to incite such betrayal... such sadness onto people which I have taken under my protection," Antonio shook his head, his features set in stone, "... will think twice before ever doing so again."
The words hung ominously between the two men. Red knew the weight the declaration carried.
"Miguel was under my protection." Red felt the weight... the guilt of his own words.
"And Elizabeth is under mine." Antonio was fast losing patience. "You have made promises to that girl," the older man seethed, "and you will honor them."
"I had no intention of not," Red snarled, "honoring my promises to Elizabeth."
"Really..." Antonio glared at the young man, "and how did you plan to do so when you're dead."
"I can handle the likes of Lydia and Javier." Red's tongue rolled distastefully.
"I'm sure, before his untimely death, Miguel thought along the same lines." Antonio sighed heavily. "Lydia and Javier know you are out for their blood. They will have made preparations for your arrival."
Red had concluded as much himself.
"You will need to fight fire with fire." Antonio jabbed a hard finger into the tabletop. "Do you truly believe you could out-do me in that area of expertise? Do you have the stomach... to dispatch a female?" his brow arched knowingly.
"I've dealt with females before." Truthfully, however, Red was not looking forward to dealing with yet another.
"You will put a bullet in her, so what?" Antonio chuckled lowly. "Will such tactics discourage others? I think not. But my methods," he shrugged nonchalantly, "...my methods leave lasting impressions."
Red was given pause for thought. He knew a few of Antonio's past 'methods'.
"Francis and I," Antonio's tone softened, "we have the manpower to execute these methods, without straining our defenses." a genial smile quirked his mouth. "Let us do this small thing for you. Take the burden... so to speak."
"I can run my own–"
"Perhaps I simply need to get my hand back in the game for a time," Antonio waved a careless hand. "Besides, your men are otherwise occupied."
Red's brow furrowed, before making the connection.
Because Silas and his men were the best at their jobs, Antonio assumed he would pull the men guarding Elizabeth away from their assigned duties to exact his revenge.
While it was true, most of the people on the payroll ensured Elizabeth's safety remained intact. It did not mean he did not have other resources at his disposal.
Never once in his time on this side, had he ever needed anyone to intercede on his behalf.
"My men, on the other hand," Antonio shrugged, "are itching for a fight. It had been a while since the last... disagreement arose," he placed his hands, folded, before him, "and the boys are.. restless. It will do them good to blow off some steam."
Red shook his head, sighing, but otherwise remained silent.
"In the end, we are doing each other a great favor." Antonio smirked. "I keep you from getting your fool head shot off, and you will allow an old man one last 'hurrah', as it were."
"I will inform Maria you said as much." Red murmured wearily.
Ignoring the veiled threat, Antonio continued on undaunted, "Yes... the boys get to release some pent up energy," he warmed to what he thought a brilliant idea, "... and an unmistakable message is sent to one and all."
Red shook his head, disliking the idea. "I need to connect with Elena."
"Francis has already secured Elena," Antonio informed the man, "and Miguel's right-hand man to his outfit." he added. "The entire family, Elena's mother included, is in the process of being relocated to New York."
"Where is Elena now?" Red wanted to know. "At this exact minute?"
"With Francis and Mark." Antonio assured. "We knew you would not rest until she was out of harm's way. They are in flight even as we speak." he further eased Red's agitation. "There is a physician already in place for their arrival, to ensure the baby receives the best medical care available."
Red scratched a rough hand over his head, grasping at straws. "So, I'm just supposed to sit here with my thumb up my ass?" he snapped. "I need to do... something."
"What you will do is," Antonio knew well enough, idle, was not part of Reddington's vocabulary, "protect Elizabeth... and in turn, yourself."
Red crossed his arms tight over his chest, scowling.
"As Lydia and Javier know you are on the hunt for their heads," Antonio's tone dropped, "they may attempt to strike first." he wanted to smack the boy upside the head. "Have you thought of that?"
Red had, of course.
"Will you leave Elizabeth in the position Elena now finds herself in," the imposing figure questioned, "when it can easily be prevented."
Red fumed internally, knowing the older man's words were sound ones.
"Until we have their head in a box," Antonio painted a gruesome image, "it will be better if you stay by Elizabeth's side, yes?"
Antonio lifted a warning hand, stopping Reddington's tirade before it began.
"Do not forget," Antonio pointed a finger, "I have no problem wounding you should the need arise." he scowled darkly. "As a matter of fact, it gives me great pleasure, each and every time I do so."
Red was taken aback. Had anyone other than Antonio said that, he would disregard the threat.
But he knew Antonio well enough to know... the old bastard would do exactly as promised to keep him contained and out of commission.
"I believe," Antonio smirked, "Elizabeth would forgive such an insignificant misdeed when she learns why I would take such action."
"Hell, she would probably hand you the damn bullet." Red grumbled under his breath, knowing a lost cause when he saw one.
He could possibly circumvent Antonio... but Elizabeth?
A battle raged within Red...
While contradictions and regrets of what he must do consumed him… Antonio exhibited sound advice at such a trying time. It was both highly aggravating and annoying.
To make matters more complicated, he knew without doubt, the love of his life would happily be a party to Antonio wounding his ass to keep him in line and out of harm's way… because she loved him.
Which, strangely enough, was an exhilarating feeling.
"At least you would have a beautiful nursemaid tend to your wounds," Antonio grinned, "during your convalescence, should you not listen to reason."
Red scoffed, "You've got a kindred spirit in that woman, Antonio, let me tell you."
The older man's eyes shifted, his eyes softening instantly when the person of interest came into view.
"Speak of the angels..." Antonio's mouth quirked at the sight of Elizabeth trudging around the corner... in nothing more than Reddington's button-up shirt.
Her bare legs peaked out from under the long tails of the white linen, her bare feet padding on the hardwood floor. The older gentleman chuckled under his breath when the woman's impish features contorted with a sleepy yawn.
Red glanced over his shoulder, wondering at Antonio's preoccupation. He too watched Lizzy near them, lost in her own thoughts... unaware of her audience.
Seeing her like this, all warm and sleep mussed, made odd emotions stir wildly inside his chest.
He grimaced inwardly, realizing her state of dress. Shit...
After their late dinner, he had shown her rooms available for their use alone.
They made use of the private domain in the most pleasurable ways without interruption...last night.
But now... in his haste to incur wrath on those who wronged him, he invited Antonio into their sanctuary.
Most assuredly, earning him Elizabeth's wrath when she realized... they were not alone.
She halted her trek, shielding her eyes from the glaring sunlight filtering through the large sliding glass doors she passed. She made a disgruntled sound, as she had not had her coffee as yet.
Elizabeth stumbled forward, groaning her dismay. "Geez!" she squinted, bemoaning her lot in life. "Lord? Thank you for sending the light... but could you possibly tone it down to a less blistering level? At least until I've had my–"
She sensed another's presence, chancing a glimpse out from under the hand she used to shield the glaring rays.
"Oh!" she brightened. "Red!"
The man's temperament faded, a smile threatening as she approached.
"I was looking for you..." the woman's lashes fluttered coquettishly.
Red cleared his throat gently, offering a sedate nod in Antonio's direction when Elizabeth would have greeted him with a warm kiss of affection.
Liz glanced in the direction needed, her smile freezing on her pretty face.
"...Oh!" she gasped her dismay, her cheeks flaming as recognition was immediate. "Ohh!" she instantly tugged at the edge of Red's shirt.
Antonio put on his most impressive face, lifting to his full height, his gaze a paternal one.
"...Uh," Liz was clearly floundering to Red's amusement, "I...I didn't know anyone else..." those blue eyes flew to Red for assistance.
Lizzy tugged, trying hard to hide those shapely legs.
Striving for a modicum of decorum for the woman's sake, Red bit the inside of his mouth to keep the grin off his face.
"I'd better go get something more," Liz cleared her throat self-consciously, "...conventional on."
Red shook his head woefully when Lizzy blindly backtracked in her steps, nearly backing right into a sitting position in a nearby chair which thwarted her escape.
"I find your attire... charming," Antonio let her off the hook with a tender chuckle, "but your point is well taken."
The man threw Red a look, "We will continue our discussion at a more opportune time, Reddington."
Red didn't see any reason to do so as Crocetti had obviously decided on the outcome of any discussion.
"I will leave you two young people to..." the seasoned man hesitated, his sharp eyes observed an oddity.
"Wait..." the low, authoritative tone alerted Elizabeth to halt her intended retreat, "...right there."
She cast a hasty appeal Red's way... but the damage was done.
Antonio gently removed several strands of dark hair from Elizabeth's face, the bright sunlight revealing the nasty-looking bruise Tom's gentle administrations had caused.
Antonio stared morosely at the sight, falling silent.
Never a good sign, Red knew.
"Has Red offered you our hospitality, Antonio?" Liz brightened, trying to avert a sense of doom. "Is Nora here?" she questioned. "No, never mind... coffee?" she offered. "Can I get you some...after I..." she gestured to her clothing.
The quiet, unreadable eyes transferred to:
Red blinked his shock. "You have got to be," he stated incredulously, "...kidding me!?"
"Oh, no!" Elizabeth followed the imposing man's train of thought. "Oh... no, no.. no!" she defended Red staunchly. "This is totally my fault. Mine!"
Liz's face twisted with anxiety as Antonio piercing eyes darkened further.
"Pray tell... how is this," he indicated the dark spreading bruise once again, "your fault."
Red shifted her a dry look. "Maybe because our little gattina here has a habit of never listening when advised to not do something unwise?"
Liz sighed heavily, "It was just a series of bad luck... that's all."
"You got that bad part right." Red approved of the wording, his tone censored.
Antonio listened patiently, willing to hear the story out.
"Don't listen to him," Liz dismissed with an impatient wave of her hand. She lifted those blue eyes, moving closer to Antonio to plead her case. "Well, see..." she swallowed, "this is what happened... in a nutshell."
Red didn't think Lizzy could explain the story in a 'nutshell', but he parked himself on a nearby desk ledge, crossing his arms over his chest... willing to give it a chance.
Liz frowned when the man beside her got comfortable, as if readying himself for the long haul. She opened her mouth, only to close it a moment later before looking helplessly to Red, waiting for him to jump on in to the mix.
"Oh, I'm waiting with bated breath, baby." Red encouraged. He was more than interested to hear how she would spin her interpretation of events into a favorable light.
"Do you know anything about my ex-husband?" Liz didn't know where to begin in reality.
Antonio's eyes narrowed dangerously.
"...I see you do." Liz wasn't sure what that look meant exactly. She forged on... quickly. "Well, I felt it was time... well, past time," she reiterated stoutly, "that I confront him. Clear the air, so to speak."
Antonio's brow lifted fractionally, nothing more.
"I wanted him out of my life, for good." she practically stamped her foot. "I wanted him gone." she gave Red an imploring look, "...For us."
While very upset by the woman's condition, Antonio was hard pressed to hide his mirth when he noticed the look of disbelief on Reddington's face.
Antonio's temper cooled some, though not by much.
Elizabeth knew the events which took place displeased Reddington but now, with a witness in the vicinity... was trying to win his favor.
It appeared to Antonio's well-trained eye... Reddington was onto Elizabeth's ruse.
"Then you should have contacted me." Antonio stated calmly, drawing the woman's attention back his way.
Elizabeth blinked, then hurriedly went on. "Yes, that... that probably would have done the trick." she kicked herself for the oversight.
Red's headed dropped hastily, his smile hidden well.
"Well, I confronted the jerk... for closure, you understand," the blue eyes languidly sought understanding, "and one thing led to another and," she bit her lip anxiously, "...and in the interim... I got this. It doesn't hurt at all though!" she hastened to assure. "Not at all!"
"Uh huh," Antonio clearly doubted the statement. "Where were your bodyguards during this... confrontation?"
"Oh, Silas was right there!" Liz was quick to explain. "I promise you!"
"And..." Antonio spread his hand toward Reddington, his expression benign.
"Right there, as well," Liz wanted to get it right, "I mean, he arrived very quickly... very, very quickly."
Without little effort on her part, Lizzy was diligently throwing Red into the lion's den.
"But neither Silas nor," again the man waved nonchalantly to a silent, and noticeably, flabbergasted Red Reddington, "... bothered to intervene on your behalf?"
"I didn't want them to!" Liz scowled darkly. "I wanted to handle it myself, which I did!" she stated proudly. "I most certainly did, didn't I Red!"
Red had the grace to be bothered, under the steely gaze of the older man.
Antonio played by rules other than the ones Lizzy knew.
"I didn't know what she was planning." Red half-heartedly defended himself.
"Well, then," Antonio smiled all too pleasantly, "that absolves you of any and all accountability... doesn't it."
"Well... yes, it does." Liz stepped into the fray. "It really does, surely you understand?"
"I'm afraid I don't, bella, no." Antonio said gently.
The woman glanced nervously at Red who stood abreast her position before feeling the weighty, unwavering attention of the older man.
"Do you know how good it felt?" Liz blurted. "When I shot that asshole..." her eyes lit with fire.
Antonio face allowed his pride. "You... shot Tom?"
"Yes, I did." Liz lifted a defiant chin, standing toe-to-toe, looking Antonio squarely in the eye. "I shot him... it was only in the leg," she admitted her shortcomings, "but I was aiming for a more vital spot." her mouth pinched irritably.
"Then the jerk fell when I kicked him in the leg!" the fact obviously displeased the woman.
Antonio commiserated, "The bastard!"
"I stabbed him with a screwdriver too..." Liz stated, her excitement fueled by the obvious approval she was now receiving.
She liked it much better than the sternly disagreeable reaction Antonio originally offered.
"A screwdriver, you say." the man was clearly impressed.
"A long one." Liz nodded eagerly.
"I am sad to have missed this little skirmish." Antonio muttered aside.
"And now the entire Metro Police Department is hunting him down because I took out a VPO on him before I... eh.."
"Confronted him... for closure?" Antonio surmised. "You had this planned... beforehand."
She glanced sheepishly at Red, "Well... not all."
Red sighed lightly, shaking his head wryly.
She blindly reached for Red's hand, taking a deep breath.
Red thought to let the little heathen flounder a moment under Antonio's scrutiny but... couldn't. He grasped her fingers in his, squeezing them comfortingly.
"Red would have killed him," Liz defended, remembering in time, "but Silas..." she halted, realizing too late, she was now throwing her head guard into that proverbial lion pit, "...Eh..."
"Cops arrived when I..." Red trailed off. "Silas prevented me from acting... hastily." he clarified.
Antonio nodded his understanding. Reddington had Tom in a compromising position, Silas legitimately halted the intended execution.
"Witnesses of the highest caliber," Antonio muttered his distaste, "but... always a nuisance."
"And, oh!" Liz remembered another key detail which might garner approval, "I've told Silas and the guys that my previous order to refrain from shooting Tom on sight is rescinded!"
The woman frowned, realizing the gravity of said order suddenly... and just how much it conflicted with her present occupation.
Stubbornly pushing the thought aside, she lifted beseeching eyes, "So you see, Red really shouldn't be shot or anything for something he didn't do..." wincing, a small groan caught in her throat.
No... that wasn't what she meant to say.
"...Or did do," she quickly amended, "not that he did anything to be... eh..."
"Stop helping me." Red advised just as hastily. "I'm sure Antonio has the full picture without anymore unnecessary explanations or commentary."
Liz grimaced apologetically, shrugging helplessly.
Antonio laughed, he did so love Elizabeth and her quirks, "Well, enough of the picture and so charmingly related."
"Yeah..." Red grated, "charming."
Antonio took Liz's face between warm palms, "If I didn't know better," he kissed Liz's forehead, his gaze an affectionate one, "I would think you were my own true blood."
Liz felt a surge of pride. "Oh! Thank you!"
Red eyed her dubiously but... held his tongue.
"As proud of you as I am," Antonio scolded superficially, "from this moment on, you will leave Tom to Reddington and my own devices, understood."
To Red's amazement, the woman nodded almost meekly. "If you think that is best... of course, Antonio."
"Who the hell are you?" Red blurted his disbelief.
Reddington's bewilderment amused Antonio. All morning, he had been trying to make a point... he should have known Elizabeth would help drive it home he alone could achieve a goal Reddington could not.
"God has bestowed too precious a gift to us," Antonio enjoyed the by-play, "for you to be involved in this issue any longer."
Liz smiled happily, nodding her acquiescence, "... Okay."
Red stared at the woman, dumbfounded, his mouth agape. Surely the woman was merely keeping up a pretense for the older mobster's sake.
Either that... or hell had just froze over.
"Now... on to more pleasurable matters," Antonio hugged the woman to his side, "you are ready for the party? Maria has expressed a wish to meet this little spitfire I have told her so much about."
Liz blushed prettily, "I am so very honored to be included in such a milestone celebration." she smiled up at the man's handsome features. "I hope I don't disappoint her."
"You could never do so." Antonio released the woman to Red's keeping.
"Should we bring anything?" Liz blurted, vainly trying to recall proper etiquette. She needed to consult Nora right away.
What could one possibly give to a man who possessed everything?
"Maybe a casserole?" Red quipped, sensing Lizzy's awe of this particular individual. "Some extra ammo, perhaps?"
"I have plenty," Antonio offered a hasty glare for Red's sense of humor, "should I demonstrate?"
Red... shut up.
"We will meet to discuss our previous topic," Antonio glanced at his watch, "in two hours' time, yes."
It was not a question, Red knew.
"Two hours is fine," Red sighed wearily, knowing better than to argue about their previous topic... especially in front of Elizabeth.
Antonio arched a knowing brow. Reddington was never one to concede so easily.
"You can occupy our boy here," Antonio smiled innocently at Elizabeth, "for two hours, can't you?"
Elizabeth blinked her disorientation, unsure why Antonio suddenly included her in the conversation again.
Though, she was intelligent enough to sense the tension between the two men.
"...Yes," she replied hesitantly, glancing between the two men questioningly.
Perhaps Red would inform her of what transpired but... she knew well enough to appease Antonio until such time.
"Now, you keep an eye on him," Antonio stepped, his tone indulgent, "and keep him out of trouble." he cast Reddington a 'see how easily I can manipulate any situation,' look.
Liz nodded decisively, "Yes, I can do that."
Antonio leaned, kissing Liz's cheek. "Take care, little one. I will see you soon."
Liz smiled impishly up at the man, earning another kiss on her forehead before Antonio took his leave.
The quiet of the room seeped into Red's psyche. He welcomed it.
"That man can put you through the wringer better than anyone in my acquaintance to date." Red realized. "And that includes, Glen Carter."
Liz was quiet... too quiet.
"Did he disturb you?"
"What? Oh... no." she dismissed. "I'm very fond of him. I like him, I really do."
"Antonio is very fond of you." more so than Red originally believed. "He's also likable... if you don't cross him." he shrugged. He liked Antonio Crocetti as well, he knew.
"Yes... yes, I know that." she nodded absently. "I wouldn't do that, not to Antonio."
"Then what?" he was beginning to know her well. "Something is amiss."
"Is... Maria like him?" she turned about, seeking a nearby chair, perching precariously on the edge.
"Does it matter? You don't have to impress these people, Elizabeth. We don't even have to attend if you–"
"Not attend?! Of course we have to attend!" she arose, her face stricken. "I want to attend, why would you even say that?"
Red was more than stumped, it mystified him. "I know you're nervous about it but the why of it... it eludes me, I'll be honest."
"He's very important to you. I know he is."
Red could not deny that statement. "You are more so. If being around him, in any way, upsets you or–"
"No...no!" Liz was adamant. "He doesn't upset me in the least. I just," she quietened, "...I just want to make a good impression."
"...Why?" He was genuinely curious.
"... It's silly," Liz reseated herself, concentrating on the hem of Red's shirt.
"Let me be the judge of that." Red sat beside her, taking her hand, his eyes gentle.
Liz swallowed hard, trying to gather her thoughts on the matter.
"Look, let me in on what's going on inside that little process in there." Red tapped her head, his tone quietly reassuring. "Maybe I can help... maybe not, but either way," he shrugged, "sometimes it helps to air things out loud to someone who gives a damn."
She lifted soulfully abject eyes.
"I know," he quipped, "eloquently put... but you get my point."
Liz's face fell, but she inclined her head, "...You know that Tom's mom never liked me." she began, then halted, checking with him. "Or do you?"
Had they ever discussed this topic?
"I know that neither Nik Korpal's nor Tom's mother approved of you." Red received daily reports on the young woman's life back in the day. "Do you know the why of it all?"
Liz's attention was caught. "Nik? How do you know about..."
"Is it important?" he evaded, not wishing to open that can of worms right at this moment. "The why of the matter is what we are discussing, correct?"
Liz gave up the battle easily enough, "Does the 'why', matter?"
"It most certainly does matter." Red was pretty sure. "Both women could sense you were not going to be the doting wife who would stay home with the children they desperately hoped for."
Liz wasn't sure if such an assessment was helping.
"At that time, you were a young woman just beginning an exciting career with your own goals to achieve." Red reminded. "Not to mention the fact, you pulled in considerably more financially than either of the dick-heads."
"Well...money shouldn't matter–"
"To a man, it does." Red could speak for himself at least. "But that aside, those women were products from another generation." his generation, he now realized.
Since birth, it had been ingrained it was his job to support his family. And he did... and would, should Elizabeth...
Sighing, Red refocused his attention on the matter at hand. "They had another type of woman in mind for their precious sons."
"I...I understand that."
"But their attitude hurt you all the same, correct?"
"Was I?" Liz had pushed the awkwardness from her mind and, as always, had fallen back on the thing which made her the happiest.
Her work got her through much in those days. It offered a distraction she could lose herself within.
"My mother would have adored you, Elizabeth." Red knew as much. "Because of your spirit and drive but also, because of your heart condition."
Elizabeth's smile embraced him, those sad eyes brightening, "I would have loved to meet her."
"Then you will love meeting, Maria." Red stated. "For she possesses the same qualities as my mother."
Liz smiled wanly, appreciating his attempt to soothe her concern, "It's just that sometimes women don't like me very much."
"Well, this one will." Red knew Maria Crocetti well. "Stop worrying. There simply isn't a reason here."
Liz nodded, arising slowly, "I better get dressed, I guess."
Reaching, Red halted her intention to leave. "Wait... you were looking for me earlier. Why?"
"Oh..." she remembered her earlier mood, gently kissing him. "...Good morning."
"It is... now." Red brushed her mouth tenderly, "I like you..." his eyes had fallen to the discretely covered area that was suddenly the center of his undivided attention, "...in this."
He flicked the fabric of his shirt, which hid the area, his eyes lifting provocatively.
"Behave!" she scolded, jerking the top from his vicinity. "Don't you even think about stuff like that when Antonio is–"
"...Gone," Red reminded, placing his hands on those shapely legs, holding her in place. "I think about 'stuff like that' every time you're near me."
Liz softened, "...Do you?" she leaned slightly to his influence. "Really?"
"I do..." His eyes fell to her lap, running a gentle finger up her bare leg. "Did you sleep well?" he needed to know.
"Are you exchanging pleasantries with me before..." Liz held her grin, avoiding the trek of his palm as it slid up and under the edge of the shirt laying against her thigh.
"...Before I accost you?" Red aided, feeling her warm, inviting flesh clear up to her hip, "...Yes, I am."
Liz fell silent, accepting the warm caress of a kiss, a small smile gracing her mouth for his antics.
"Well, if that is a prediction of the future, I want you on that contraption there," she motioned to a nearby radio, "threatening all sorts of dire consequences should any untimely interruptions occur."
"I will inform Silas," Red stood, capturing her lips in yet another searing kiss, "heads will roll, bodies will be mangled..."
"Beyond recognition..." Liz followed the gentle insistence of his trek, adding an addendum, her expression a scolding one.
A wicked smile pulled at Red's mouth, "Towers will crumble, the Earth will be scorched..."
"Tsunamis will abound?" she tilted her head thoughtfully, her expression most endearing to the man.
"You want wet, baby?" his cock twitched its excitement. "I'll give you... wet."
"That's not what I envisioned but," she shrugged happily, "it works on another level, I guess."
Red's hand slid the length of her back. Liz found her body conforming to press luxuriously along his hard frame.
"It worked last night," he crooned silkily, "...didn't it?"
Red felt his world shift into place as Lizzy lay her head against his shoulder, her arms sliding to embrace his neckline.
He felt the heavy weight of her breasts crush to his chest.
"You were so..." Liz sought the word, her eyes closing to the heated memories. She sighed lightly, blissfully.
"...Demanding?" he postulated, breathing in the soft fragrance of her lovely neckline.
"...Masculine." she corrected. "So very... you."
Red chuckled, not displeased with the rich sensuality of her voice... nor with the knowledge last night had not been a total disaster for Elizabeth.
While laying in bed last night lost to his own private thoughts, he worried he had been too... overpowering and demanding of her.
But it seemed he averted what could have been a mishap... and instead, inadvertently opened up a new set of possibilities for them to explore.
He hoped he was reading Elizabeth correctly, anyway.
"And that... masculinity," he probed gently, using her term, "were you comfortable with that?"
"...I was," she replied quietly, averting her gaze, "comfortable, yes."
Red held his expression, understanding the subtly of her reply.
Elizabeth had enjoyed his... sexual advances and even his demeanor but considering the circumstances which brought it all about... she wasn't sure if he was all right with what occurred.
He could not fault Elizabeth for feeling him out. It had been a rather intense evening followed by a passionate exchange she was not accustom to experiencing with him.
Any other time, he might have felt guilty for losing control and letting their activities go as far as they had, but...
Elizabeth made it very clear, she wished he would express his emotions... his needs, with her.
"Are you..." she cautiously broached the subject, "comfortable with–"
"Every man likes to think," he studied the anxious little features carefully, "he has some merit as a lover."
Liz's confusion grew with his words.
"Elizabeth, I am older than you," he smiled down at her, "with a little more experience." he tested the waters.
While he was aware, Elizabeth was not upset... he was unsure how accepting she was of this new level of intimacy.
"If I could not please you in bed," he began slowly, "then that would be a very poor reflection upon me, as a man... agreed?"
Liz shifted her gaze, pondering the statement.
"Compound that with the knowledge, I want desperately to hold your attention as a lover..." Red traced the ridges of her index finger with meticulous care, his larger finger dwarfing her smaller, slender one.
"You do!" she blurted, her blue eyes darting to his. "...Very much so."
"I'm glad to hear that." Red nodded slowly, holding his own excitement. "Be forewarned," he advised, "I will never stop trying to find new ways to... please you."
Liz unconsciously leaned into his touch, her eyes closing to his low, rumbling timbre.
"My purpose as your lover is to excite," his mouth traced a heated trek from her temple, "tempt..." to her cheek line, "... and tantalize."
Red's full lips brushed her neckline, his warm breath sending shivers of delight down her spine.
Elizabeth nestled into his sphere, her arms clinging tightly to his strength.
"I will use all that vast experience I've accumulated," Red tenderly brushed his mouth over the full pout of her lips, "to fulfill your... needs and–"
"...Vast?" she blinked, her interest piqued.
"Ensure you never... ever want to see if there's any other male out there that just might be better."
She shook her head negatively, "... There isn't."
"No, there isn't." he agreed readily. "For no one could feel as deeply as I do where you are concerned," he nudged the tip of her nose with his, "no one can ever love you so completely."
Elizabeth sighed happily, "I... I feel the same."
He smiled back, heartened by her response. "With that said, I wish to thank you for... being there when I needed you most. For understanding my... behavior last evening." he knew he hurt her for not confiding in her.
"They say, we hurt those we love most," Liz looked up at the man, "but I say... those who love us most should be understanding and forgiving when we hit a rough spot and lose our way."
Red nodded slowly, giving the statement due process. She was right, naturally.
So many times in the past, Lizzy and he had butted heads and each time, when he was proven to be correct... he always forgave Lizzy her assumptions about him. It had become a pattern. One he would not bring to light at this time, however.
"You were blind-sided," Liz presented facts as she saw them, "you were angry."
Red couldn't argue with either point.
"Whether you like it or not," Liz quirked her brow, "you are entitled to feel a little lost and out of sorts every once in a while." she scolded. "Together, we can work through anything that rears its ugly head."
"You know what else I feel?" Red husked.
His pulse beat steadily through his veins when the woman flushed with pleasure having read the invitation in those light eyes. "Am I correct in assuming you will... work with me to alleviate those feelings as well?"
Red's sack quivered when the woman's cheeks plumped and brightened in color. The stark contrast from her behavior last night utterly charmed and aroused him.
God, how he wanted her.
Slipping his hand under her shirt, Red traveled the silken expanse of her hip and side, teasing her warm flesh with his fingers. He smiled when her skin erupted with gooseflesh under his touch.
"...I am," she gasped softly when his hand engulfed the indenture of her small waist, "supposed to keep you occupied for a couple hours."
"... That was your assigned task." Red rasp, his thumb easing over her straining nipple in agonizingly languid strokes.
"Then it can be arranged." she whispered, lifting her face as Red leaned into her space.
"That..." Red's rich tone rumbled intimately, "was the perfect thing to say."