June 25th
Cautiously opening his eyes, Red sighed gratefully, finding the room shadowed in soothing darkness.
Given their highly emotional state the previous day, he expected a headache of extreme proportions but to his relief was only experiencing a mild throbbing in his temples.
Easing to his side, his gaze fell on the woman beside him in the huge expanse of their bed.
The tension in his own frame tapered aside. Lizzy seemed relaxed, her soft and evened breathing spoke of untroubled dreams.
Red didn't think Lizzy would ever find sleep last night.
It had been a piss poor day for them both. Yet, in the end, it had turned out rather enlightening.
Confronting ghosts of one's past and enduring heavy fallout which had been emotionally painful was not how Red wished to pass his day. He was certain Lizzy felt the same way.
At the end of that horrible day, they found themselves ensconced in the sanctuary of their room experiencing ebbing waves of indignation, sorrow and betrayal; all of which had been difficult to alleviate... or deal with.
Even with the changes in their relationship, he expected and accepted Lizzy may have wished to retreat into herself after what had been revealed.
He had never taken Lizzy's silence personally; it was just how the woman made sense of chaos.
Having the ability to internally compartmentalize, dissect and categorize a problem was one of the reasons the woman was such a brilliant profiler.
With that said, it had surprised him when Lizzy had not done as expected.
The woman had shifted closer to him, tucking her legs up on the couch, leaning against his shoulder.
Lizzy maintained a running commentary to better understand the circumstances surrounding what happened almost twenty-five years ago.
And in doing so... something unexpected occurred between them.
Where Lizzy once felt frustrated Red was purposely withholding or concealing certain information, she realized now there were truths even he wasn't privy to knowing.
The intel obtained on the cases they now worked... allowed Red a better chance of deciphering items of interest he uncovered along the way.
It relieved him beyond belief they finally found a balance regarding what had been a point of contention between them for so long.
All of which lead him to a deeply personal realization.
Out of their shared grievances, and without any real presence of mind... they stumbled upon a new facet to what it was they shared.
Both felt a definite shift in their relationship, one which could only be described as comfortable contentment.
He knew Lizzy was curious by nature and desired to seek answers to the mess that was her life, but in that warehouse, their relationship outweighed everything else. Her primary goal was to ease the pain he felt; nothing besides that mattered.
Without hesitation, she took charge of the situation, directing how matters were to be approached... as if it were her right.
Which was exactly how Red felt about the subject. It was her right.
Whatever label people wished to attach to Lizzy regarding their arrangement; girl-friend, lover, life partner... it didn't matter.
All that mattered was where other's wouldn't have become involved or intruded on what they believed was a personal matter...
Lizzy was there for him when he so desperately needed her to be.
Regardless of what Dembe or Silas may have believed his reasons were... when he shared those files with Lizzy, it was in no way meant to be a reward for what she had done for him.
He had always meant to further discuss his affiliation with Lizzy's parents but had been unsure how to broach the subject without visible, concrete proof of any statements he might be forced to make.
To be honest...until mentioned, he forgot the files existed or were even in his possession.
The only question to plague him the previous evening was; had things still been contentious between them... would he have shared the files with her?
When they first started working together, Red desperately wished to lay it all out for her... but regretfully realized, Lizzy hadn't been ready to hear what he had to say.
In the beginning, when she perceived him to be evasive... she closed herself off. If he did lead her straight to the answer... he had manufactured the outcome. If he presented hints... she became exasperated, if not infuriated.
The situation had frustrated them both. There had been no rational way to unravel the entanglements of the past.
Had he shown those files to her a year ago, her anger and frustration with him would have clouded her to the facts at her fingertips.
As was life, certain circumstances had a way of mellowing and maturing a person.
Just as the military gave Red a purpose and structure he found fulfilling and his daughter's birth softened his rough edges...
Lizzy's attack, her work with the BAU, becoming close to his associates... among a host of other events helped her gain clarity and a truce with him.
Even had they not become lovers, he would like to believe Lizzy would have approached the files with an open mind, reading between the lines... seeing that gray area in ways she never had before.
In doing so, she had found a little piece of him, one he liked to think still existed in some way. Perhaps he was deluding himself.
Red's attention shifted to the here and now as Lizzy stirred beside him.
Lifting to his elbow, he stilled his customary practice to speak or touch the woman, which was what he truly wished to do, even now.
Waiting, he watched her long lashes flutter open half-mast... before she exhaled a dispirited sigh.
"Rough night?" Red murmured, settling his hand between their bodies.
"I still believe my parents were assholes," she muttered, "if that's what you're asking."
At one time, he would have soothed her anger, even deflected her ire his way so the woman wouldn't have to think of her parents in a unpleasant light.
But that time was over.
Whatever her parents' roles were in the fiasco, he lived day to day. He and Lizzy would handle the fallout, together. It was time they took steps to move forward towards their future and whatever lay ahead.
"My life would be easier had I never met them," he kissed her brow gently, "but then... I would have not met their daughter."
She turned, resting her hand on his forearm. "Are you sure that is such a good thing?"
"I didn't know how much," he told the truth, "until yesterday at that damned warehouse."
Red's brow quirked curiously as the woman's eyes at once shifted between affection and wry amusement.
"I suppose I should reciprocate those kind words and state how thankful I am," she conceded lightheartedly, "you stopped being such a tight-ass and shared those files with me."
Red fell back into the cushion of the pillow as the woman moved closer, laying against his side.
"I don't know why you believe you aren't profound," Red countered. "That was so eloquently put."
"I thought so too..." she rested her hand on his pectoral, smiling up at him.
"In my defense," he began, "I wasn't aware those files were still in my possession."
She remained silent, knowing full well Red told the truth. His paled features and shaking hands told her he had never stepped foot inside that building before.
"I'm glad you shared them, either way," she lifted, kissing his chin. "What are your plans for the day?"
Before Red could open his mouth to reply, his phone vibrated quietly on his night stand.
"Well, let's see, shall we?" he sighed, reaching for the interruption. "Yes?" he said in greeting, absently rubbing his fingers along Lizzy's back.
"Hello, Maria." he chuckled quietly at Lizzy's reaction. The woman stiffened at his side, pulling the sheet securely over her bared breasts. "No, no... we've been up for a while."
Liz looked between him and the phone, straining to hear what was being said, her interest acute.
"Yes, Lizzy's right here. Just a moment," he held the phone aloft, "Maria would like to speak to you."
He huffed his amusement as the woman quickly sat upright, smoothing her hair into a semblance of order even as she snatched the phone from his fingers.
"Hello Maria, how are you?" Liz smiled nervously, then nodded slowly at whatever the woman was saying. "Oh, yes..." she nodded jerkily, "yes, that sounds wonderful! I would love to go shopping."
Red muffled his quiet laughter at Lizzy's wide, shock filled eyes, excitement brimming from her tense body.
He smiled warmly as Lizzy relaxed back into the headboard, twisting the ends of her hair as she discussed plans with her newfound friend.
"Yes," Liz hastily assured, "Red would love to see Antonio, yes."
Red's grin widened when Lizzy shot him a stern look, daring him to contradict what she said.
Any other time, he might worry how easily Lizzy sacrificed him these days.
"Thank God I'm not a virgin." he muttered wryly, making certain he kept those cryptic words to himself.
This was one sacrifice he didn't mind in the least, however.
Lizzy got to play with a friend, and he would enjoy a smoke and drink with Antonio.
Rolling from the bed, he made way for the bathroom. He was just slipping his toothbrush back into its holder when Lizzy streaked her way to the private toilet.
His eyes trailed after her bare behind before it was hidden by the door closing. Sighing his disappointment, he washed away the cobwebs, wiping his face dry as the muffled sound of toilet flushed behind him.
Red smiled at the reflection of Lizzy's light steps and beaming smile in the mirror as she prepared to begin her day.
"What did Maria have to say?" he leaned against the counter as she set her toothbrush back.
"We're going shopping," Liz replied jubilantly, "and you're keeping Antonio busy."
"So Maria designated me Antonio's babysitter, correct?" Red stepped closer, peering at the woman's reflection. "Antonio is fine with all this underhanded maneuvering?"
"Yes," her smile brightened, "Maria told him he was coming over here to see you."
Red would have given anything to see Antonio's face when he heard his plans for the day.
"And when exactly are you two beautiful women going on this excursion?" Red absently peered at the clock.
"After lunch." she looked back at him through the mirror, her excitement radiating like a bright light.
Wrapping an arm about her naked waist, Red stepped in behind her, brushing her hair aside.
"Well then," he ran his nose along the shell of her ear, "..get your ass back in bed."
Liz's eyes blinked at the man's rough voice. "W-What?"
Stepping closer, he brushed the stiffness which plagued him against the woman's rounded bottom.
"We have more than ample time," his voice deepened, "to enjoy some playtime of our own."
Liz's eyes fluttered shut as Red's shaft nudged at the space between her thighs. Her bottom lifted of its own accord, allowing the thick head access to what it wanted.
"Get.. back.. in.. bed." he enunciated each word.
"Well, since you asked so politely," she lifted a scolding brow, but put down her brush, heading for the doorway... Red on her heels.
She drew in a sharp breath when the man unceremoniously captured her in his arms, drawing her into his sphere, his handling a little rough and demanding.
Lowering his mouth passionately to hers, Red pressed against the soft cushion, gingerly flicking his tongue against her own, parting the pout of her lips.
Lifting her to the mattress, he peppered the woman's sternum with kisses, before capturing a convenient nipple in his mouth, rubbing his tongue against the little pebble until the woman was purring like a kitten.
"Do we," Liz sighed blissfully, "have enough time for you..." she exhaled shakily, her voice a whisper of silky seduction, "to put that tongue of yours to better use, maybe?"
Inching his tongue further down the line of her torso, tracing the edge of her mons in reply, Red grunted his approval when she lifted into the sensation.
Grasping her hips, Red dragged Lizzy's ass closer, "Is that all you keep me around for?" his tone was heavy with growing desire. "My tongue?"
"No, you have other interesting assets," her small fingers curved sensually about the thick, pulsating cock that prodded the ridge of her abdomen. "We don't want that to go to waste, do we?"
She guided the thick head to her opening, watching its trek with avid interest.
"Make up your mind, woman!" Red wasn't inclined to deny either methods of intimate connection... but she didn't have to know that. "Tongue or cock?"
"You're a little stingy." she pouted prettily up at him. "Can't I have both?"
He sighed over dramatically, taking his cock from unresisting fingers. "Oh... all right." the man pretended annoyance.
"What I won't do for a good piece of ass." he lowered himself to the proper position. "Don't think I'll be this accommodating each and every time, is all I'm saying."
"We'll talk," Liz sighed happily, scooting very much closer to the man's vicinity.
Red lifted a sensual stare. "There's been enough talking," he lowered his head, his objective very much in sight.
Walking hand-in-hand into the dining room, Red and Liz greeted the others already present.
"Have to talk to Nora," she kissed his cheek, shoving him playfully aside. "Maria wants her along today. Isn't that amazing?"
Red hit the buffet, "Yeah... amazing." he perused the selections eagerly. "Let me guess, you both need one of my credit cards."
"Just one?" Liz stuck her lip into a deep pout.
Red halted in filling his plate with an assortment of tasty choices, desperately holding his smile. He enjoyed when Lizzy played with him, especially over money.
"You're just hungry," Liz wrinkled her nose adorably. "You'll feel better after you eat."
"You mean, more agreeable to opening my wallet." Red affected a discontent mumble, taking his seat at the table.
"...Yes," Liz smiled brightly, kissing his forehead before all but skipping from the room.
Red watched the woman's little ass traipse through the kitchen door, quietly snickering for both Lizzy's antics... and Dembe's contrite expression.
"You do appreciate honesty in a partner." Dembe reminded.
"...I do," Red nodded. "Though, I question her method. Seemed a bit placating to me, did it you?" he held his smile.
"I believe she was most forthright in her quest." Dembe contradicted Red's viewpoint.
"Then who am I to argue?" Red pulled his wallet, sitting it beside Lizzy's place setting, tossing the ball in her court.
"All right, Dembe," he sighed heavily, "hit me with the day's itinerary."
Dembe supplied the up-to-date info quickly and efficiently, returning his attention to the muffin before him.
"That's it?" Red scowled his disbelief when nothing of great importance was thrown his way. "There's nothing catastrophic occurring? No mayhem? No scheduled bloodshed?"
"Not at this time," Dembe muttered around his melon, "though, take heart... the day is still young."
Red smiled, lifting from his seat as Lizzy breezed back into the room, a plate in hand. Pulling her chair free, he scooted it under her bottom as she sat.
"What's on your agenda today," she lifted her chin, accepting his kiss. "Besides your visit with Antonio." she not so subtly reminded.
"Not one thing," Red replied. "Dembe promised me anarchy today... but failed miserably in his mission."
"Did you wish for anarchy?" Dembe's brows rose slightly.
"I was in the mood." Red reseated himself.
Red grinned when, out of the corner of his eye... he saw Lizzy hesitate in her movement and focus squarely on the wallet beside her. Keeping his attention on his plate, he watched her fingers idly stroke the brushed leather before easing the heavy flap open.
The woman peered curiously inside, smiling happily when she found a picture of herself front and center before turning her attention to the rows of cards Red had at his disposal.
She had never seen so many before, nor even heard of a couple as they were in foreign languages. Lifting the dark leather, she flicked through the wad of cash, silently counting a rough estimate in her head.
Red pinched his lips tight when the woman, too distracted to hide her interest in the treasure before her, openly took the wallet in both hands. Her little fingers traveled over the slick surfaces, tracing the rounded edges of each credit card available.
"Take the black one." he muttered.
Lizzy's eyes darted upward, not bothering to conceal her activity. "What?"
"The black one there," Red gestured. "Take that one."
Liz looked down at her hands, her little mouth forming a shocked 'O' as she realized... Red caught her openly rifling through his wallet.
"O-Oh..." she stammered, closing the thick billfold between her palms, "I was just..."
"You're going shopping with Maria, correct." Red reminded.
"Yes, you know I am." Liz lifted a stubborn chin.
Once, when dating Madeline, she had gone shopping with Maria for a simple set of new dinnerware as she had broken the previous evening... throwing it at Red during a heated argument.
Madeline had made that purchase, and after Maria's gentle coaxing... a new Villa on the shoreline.
Lizzy stated she dreaded the idea of furnishing this house as it was so large. Yet, he wouldn't be the least bit surprised if Lizzy returned home today with enough furniture to fully redecorate the entire house.
When Maria Crocetti went shopping... she went shopping.
"Take the black card," Red urged, "trust me." He smiled as the woman caressed the card before easing it from its slot, slipping it in her back pocket.
All conversation halted at the sudden sound of the front door being unceremoniously flung open.
All hands went to respective weapons, all tense and on guard.
The front door slammed shut... loudly. All guards arose, staring expectantly at the opened archway which lead to the dining area.
As the sound of heavy foot fall grew closer, Joe stepped inconspicuously out of sight, weapon raised. All waited tentatively...
"Francis is here." Justin piped in through the radio, his voice jovially announcing the obvious.
Red rolled his eyes heavenward as the guards re-holstered their weapons, returning their interest to the plates before them.
"You disparage my flawless reputation," Dembe gave Red a telling look as a harried Francis Holbrook appeared in the archway. "Perhaps you spoke too soon."
"I can't believe this shit!" Francis grouched, snatching a plate from the nearby side table. "Of all the insane..."
"What's wrong?" Red sighed. "Specifically." he added hastily, hoping to keep Francis centered on the subject at hand.
"Lia freaking left me!" the young man bitched, his expression one of utter disbelief. "She dumped my ass! Me!"
Liz gasped her shock, half arising from her seat, her mouth gaping.
Red put a gentle restraining hand out, urging her back down.
"I know! It's unbelievable, right?!" Francis waved his arm haphazardly. He halted the action immediately as his bacon slid precariously to the edge of his plate.
"Did you know... and not tell your own best-friend!" he accused a stricken Elizabeth Scott.
Red slowly turned his attention to Lizzy... actually wondering the same.
"Of course, I didn't know, you imbecile!" Liz snapped, incensed for the accusing stares.
"Did Lia give you an explanation?" Red was curious despite himself.
"Oh, she gave me an excellent explanation! She left me for...for..." Francis sputtered, jabbing a finger towards Silas just as the large guard sauntered through the archway, "...his more evil twin."
"Can you blame her?" Silas smirked, shaking his luxurious locks. "I am a thing of beauty."
The guard grabbed a coffee, sitting across from the young man. "Now... what the hell are we taking about?"
"Lia dumped Francis." Joe said around his mouthful, cutting to the chase.
Red had to admit, the news surprised him. Lia and Francis had seemed so compatible, which really begged the question... what the hell had Francis done to alienate the woman.
"Did you know and not tell me!?" Francis narrowed his eyes at the guard.
"Though I'm sure she'd love to," Silas scowled, snatching a biscuit from a nearby platter, "I'm not screwing your chick, you dumbass."
The guard narrowed dangerous eyes. "You should know better than that shit." he spat. "What the hell do I have to do with anything, anyway?"
"Because..." Francis stressed, "she hooked up with Granger!"
"Granger!" Silas slammed his hand on the table, unintentionally crushing his biscuit. He stared at the object, taken aback by his own actions.
Not expecting such an outburst, Lizzy startled at Red's side. Her butter knife jerked from her hand, landing with a clang in Red's coffee cup.
Patting her hand consolingly, Red waved the incident aside.
All the guards present wisely held their growing amusement over the developing tale.
Lifting from his seat, Red shared a long-suffering look with Dembe as both listened to the idiots across the way.
All eyes and interest were focused on Francis and Silas wondering what the hell would come out of their mouths next.
Pouring himself a fresh cup of the hot brew, Red refilled Lizzy and Dembe's cups as well before retaking his seat.
"This is all very distressing news." Dembe buttered his muffin carefully.
"Why the hell did she hook up with that low-life bastard!?" Silas bellowed. "I'm ten times more handsome than he ever thought about being!"
"Right!" Francis pointed excitedly, agreeing wholeheartedly. "Right! That's what I thought too!"
Resting his chin on the cradle of his palm, Red drummed his fingers on the table, chuckling inwardly when Francis frowned suddenly... realizing what he'd just said.
"What did you do!" Liz scolded, her voice rising in pitch. "You had to have done something!"
"I didn't do anything!" Francis denied any wrongdoing instantly.
Liz peered at the man with skeptical eyes, knowing Francis had to have done something to warrant Lia's decision to end the relationship.
"Unless... you know something I don't." Francis eyed the woman suspiciously again. "What have you heard, Mata Hari?"
Again, this was one of those moments that left Red torn. Did he console Lizzy? Or did he pat Francis on the head for using a historical reference that was actually correct?
Offering Lizzy a reassuring glance, Red's eyes dropped instantly to the knife she clutched so tightly in her clenched fist.
Nora breezed in with fresh plates of food, sitting them aside. She patted Francis on the shoulder consolingly as she poured a generous amount of gravy over his eggs and biscuits.
"Thank you, my sweet love," Francis glanced up at the woman with sorrowful eyes. "Are there more biscuits?"
Red smiled when Lizzy slowly settled her forehead onto the table's edge, shaking it morosely.
He knew he would probably regret it, but again, his curiosity reared its ugly head. "Was Lia aware... she was the love of your life?"
Francis shifted a guilty glance to Nora as the woman abruptly turned away, hiding her reflexive snort of amusement.
Hastily clearing her throat, Nora took a steadying breath before giving the young man a most sincere, sympathetic look.
"I..." Francis cocked his head, thinking back on his time with the young lady in question, "no... no I didn't." he nodded staunchly, certain now of his answer. He looked to Red curiously. "Do you think I should have?"
Sighing inwardly, Red shook his head, "No, I don't think it would have made any difference." he rolled his eyes towards Dembe, sharing yet another withering look.
"Did something untoward happen yesterday to bring about this horrific decision on Lia's part?" Red narrowed down the boy's thought process, if for no other reason but to get to the root of the problem.
If they didn't, Francis would harp on his failed romance all damn day... maybe all month.
"You know..." Francis gestured with his knife, hesitating as he looked absently about. "Is there no strawberry jam?"
Silas shoved the dish towards the young man, his knuckles white around the stem of his fork. Red silently wondered if Lia's slight still upset the man... or was he simply withholding the urge to stab Francis?
"...A girl wears your shirt or boxers and it's supposed to be cute." Francis continued on, "but you wear her dress one time and all of a sudden, you two need to have a 'talk'." the term was air quoted.
Red's body shook with stifled amusement when he saw Silas stop mid-chew to side glance the boy.
"Boy!" Silas commented, "what the ever living hell?" he had to question such a broad statement, but more so, Francis' cavalier attitude.
"I, too, dislike double standards, Francis." Dembe nodded, lazily stirring cream into his tea.
Silas' head snapped about, his scowl deepening. "You... what?"
Red's lips trembled with the effort to withhold his laughter for Dembe's solid delivery... and Silas' look of total disbelief.
Chancing a glance at Lizzy, he cracked, releasing a snorted huff of laughter when he found the woman frowning deeply, a contemplative look on her adorable face.
"How did you..." Liz trailed off, her confusion growing, "Lia is smaller than you?"
"That was one of her," Francis air quoted again, "issues."
"What the hell is wrong with you?" Silas' features were incredulous.
"Uh! See, Lia wanted to know that too!" Francis jabbed a finger Silas' way, excited to have found a kindred-spirit... of sorts. One who thought along similar lines of logical discord.
Silas' head dropped back against his chair, releasing a pained, disgruntled sigh. "Jesus... please deliver me from this hell."
Red hid his smile behind his coffee cup, enjoying his guard's rankled nerves.
"Francis," Liz cocked her head curiously, "why were you...eh? I mean, what possessed you to..."
"I liked the pattern," Francis shrugged, stuffing a biscuit slathered in gravy into his mouth, "wondered if it would look good with my skin tone."
"You couldn't just hold it up to you?" Red had to ask the obvious.
"You know I don't buy shit without trying it on." Francis bitched. "I did that with that lime green shirt, remember... I ended up looking like a half-ripe, ass backwards Oompa Loompa."
Dembe nodded sagely, remembering the fashion faux pas well. "I felt most uncomfortable walking into that meeting that day with you looking... less than dapper."
"Well, thank you for flooring that guy who laughed at me, Dembe. You find out who your friends are in situations like that." Francis laid a hand on his real friend's shoulder.
Liz leaned, her mouth parting in preparation for she wished to further the conversation.
"Let it go, Lizzy." Red waved her off, knowing very well where all this would lead.
If Francis realized Lizzy believed he wished to purchase a dress, and not a shirt... he would sulk and question his masculinity to any and all within hearing distance all damn day. Perhaps even until Silas snapped and actually strangled the boy.
"Well, I'm just devastated." Francis sighed his woe, slathering another biscuit in jam.
"What was Lia's name..." Silas smirked Red's way, vividly remembering Francis' inability to recall the important question at one time.
Francis' brow furrowed, staring off into the ether.
Red adjusted fitfully in his seat for even he, and all present, knew the woman's name.
"Jackson, Lia Jackson!" Francis beamed happily, then looked at Red to confirm he was right.
Nora patted the young man's shoulder genially, which only served to confuse the young man.
"You're not gonna hang out with her anymore... right?" Francis practically dared Lizzy to refute his assumption.
"Well..." she crinkled her nose, "we're supposed to go shopping–"
"You little back-stabbing traitor!" Francis was up and at 'em, pointing an accusing finger. "You call her saucy little ass and tell the two-timing imp you will have nothing to do with her from this moment on!"
The incensed young man motioned to Lizzy's idle phone on the table beside her. "Go on! Dial the number and speak your mind! Tell her she devastated your very BFF's heart and that he will likely never recover from the assault!"
"You mean, speak your mind." Red corrected.
"Yes!" Francis set stubborn hands on his hips. "What the hell's your point!"
Red looked between Lizzy and Francis, keeping an even tone. "We should all take a moment to digest all that's happened before we make any rash moves."
"Oh, I suppose you'd go shopping with her too!" Francis accused. "After all I've done for you? You find out who your friends are when the shit hits the fan, let me tell you..." he once again patted Dembe's shoulder in open affection.
Red sighed mentally, "I assure you, Francis. I will never go shopping with your ex-girlfriend, no matter who she might be."
Francis settled instantly, reseating himself. "Oh... okay then. I knew you weren't a turncoat traitor, Red. Thank you for that." he rethought the statement. "Well, everyone says you are a turncoat traitor but... you're not, not when it matters."
Red chuckled when he barely caught Lizzy's arm as she attempted to lunge from her chair, intent on inflicting certain murderous tendencies on an unaware victim... one who had returned his interest to the biscuits and gravy set before him.
Red sat patiently as Dembe pulled down the long tree-lined avenue, past stately mansions and well-manicured lawns.
Security gates literally screamed affluent neighborhood.
The day had taken a turn for the worse, and it had nothing to do with the weather.
The man glanced out at the downpour which created dancing rivulets down his window. "Have I mentioned how very much Günter pisses me off?" he voiced his rambling thoughts. "And how nice it would be to wring his scrawny little neck?"
"You said you wished there was more mayhem in your day." Dembe reminded needlessly. "You said it just this morning, just as you've said how much Günter annoys you many, many... many times before."
Red cut the man a sardonic look. "So how's it going with you and Hannah?" his tone said he already knew. "Didn't get laid, huh?"
Dembe let the moment pass.
Red grinned as silence met his question. "I hope the rain doesn't spoil Lizzy's planned outing." he checked his watch. They would be home in time for Antonio and Maria's arrival. "My nuts will be in a sack if something goes awry."
"Your nuts are all ready in a sack." Dembe reminded.
"You're in a rather dour mood." Red noted. "Have I done something to piss you off?" his hand went to the handle of the car as they approached the main entrance of the house.
Red frowned when Dembe drove past, easing the sedan around the side of the house, toward the mammoth parking garage in back.
"What are you doing?" Red voiced his surprise. "I thought the guys used the garage for their cars?"
Or at least, that had been his impression considering Dembe never used the facility before in the past.
He waited patiently while Dembe parked the car in the closet spot which led to the back entrance of the house.
"They do, but there has always been a designated parking spot for you and Elizabeth in case of inclement weather."
Red stared at the back of the man's head in something akin to awe. "You've let us get soaked knowing full well this area was available for use... all this time?"
"Never, Elizabeth." Dembe turned about, meeting Red's incredulous stare easily.
"But me... I get wet?" Red snapped his waning patience. "Why am I so privileged today?"
"Today," Dembe supplied the answer, "I am wearing my new suede coat." he brushed his hand down the expensive sleeve, smoothing the soft material. "I prefer it not get wet."
"And before?" Red wanted to know.
"You never asked." Dembe shrugged.
Red sat back in his seat, lifting his hand, annoyed. "People think you're so reserved and phlegmatic. They never get to see the other side... you can be an evil bastard when you want."
Dembe's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Do you like my coat?"
Red offered a 'look', exiting the car.
Dembe's lips curved into a smile, as he, too, exited the car.
"You better get off that high horse." Red called back over his shoulder, but secretly enjoyed Dembe's rare mood of mischievous malice. "I know all your secrets just like you know mine." he reminded. "I also know where you sleep."
It was only when the darkness of Dembe's earlier life lifted that the man's true nature was revealed.
Despite all that happened, Red was granted the privilege of glimpses, rare and far between... of the kind, generous, playful man that still embodied the true spirit of his most close and dear friend.
Only a key select few were allowed behind the carefully constructed façade Dembe Zuma wove and presented to the world.
Red took it as a good sign; this was an especially good day for his companion.
Grinning wryly, Red pulled up short just inside the doorway of the mud room he had just entered, a large obstacle blocking his path.
Silas sighed an overly melodramatic greeting, side-stepping the arriving duo.
"And what's up your ass?" Red sat his bag aside, removing his hat.
"Warning," Silas jerked a head towards the back, rolling his eyes, "she's in a mood."
"Lizzy?" Red frowned, hanging his overcoat on a nearby hook.
Dembe shrugged when the guard walked off in a huff, mumbling something about getting 'too old for this shit'.
"I suppose I could take it as a good sign he didn't need liquor." Red granted.
Red took a few steps then hesitated, "Oh, Dembe..." he looked to his friend, "to my knowledge, I'll be in the rest of the day. Why don't you go see Hannah?"
"She's working until five," Dembe said, then brightened. "I will catch up on my show in the meantime."
Red inclined his head, understanding his friend's hint. Dembe would be in house should his presence be required... but it better not be.
Continuing towards his original destination, Red cocked his head curiously as he heard music growing in volume the closer he got to the master bedroom.
Walking through the doorway, he pulled up short, an instant smile lighting his face.
Lizzy sang along with the tune, dancing about joyously as she flitted between drawers in her bureau. She held a lacy bra up for inspection before she slingshot it across to the neighboring drawer, all in time to a rather upbeat tempo.
Leaning against the door's frame, Red watched her long hair and shoulders sway along to the uplifting melody. The sensuous hips rolled suggestively before she wriggled her ass with unconstrained glee.
The exuberance she felt was more than transmitted through her movement.
Was this the mood Silas referenced because if so... Red, himself, was very much enjoying it.
The man knew Lizzy was excited about her shopping excursion with Maria, but had been unaware the excitement was to this extent.
Red's eyes caressed the curving length of her bare legs all the way down to her little feet. The woman bent, presenting her swiveling ass to his avid gaze.
Caught in a rather pleasant moment, Red secretly wondered how he might go about encouraging Lizzy to do this dance just for him sometime when... the song ended.
Giving the woman a well-deserved wolf-whistle, he grinned as she whirled around, a smile lighting her own features.
He had expected her to flush... but that smile was just as rewarding.
"Oh, Red!" she rushed for him, vibrating with barely contained energy. "You'll never believe what's happened!"
"Probably not..." he conceded.
"My team," she gripped his lapels, "is up for an award!"
Red cocked his head curiously, "An award for what?" he sat on the edge of a nearby table, waiting for the tale to unfold.
"They hold these recognition awards every year but," she stepped in place, too excited to stand still, "well... we haven't been up for one before."
"But now you are..." he followed along so far.
"Yes!" she nodded rapidly. "They normally hold the ceremony in a stuffy conference room. They call your name, shake your hand, take a picture and send you packing." she frowned sadly for previous winners. "They don't even give you time to thank your family or anything."
"Sounds charming," Red muttered his distaste. For all the long hours her team put in and sacrifices they made... they deserved better than the very least offered by their superiors.
"Yeah, I know," she crinkled her nose, "hardly anyone attends. When I was in Boston, a colleague said they mailed her award because she didn't bother going."
"You're not going?" Red frowned. Whether it was a shit ceremony or not, Lizzy and her team deserved some sort of recognition, surely.
"They've changed the venue this year!" she bubbled exuberantly. "From what I heard, because no one showed up last year... they decided to hold an actual banquet!"
"Well past time, I'd say." he murmured his disdain for bureaucratic stupidity.
"We get dinner, dancing," she smiled happily, "and we're expected to say a few words... "
"When is this auspicious occasion to occur?" he asked.
"Tomorrow!" Red smiled, amused that the woman could not stand still, she was so hyped. "We're allowed a plus one, so please tell me you can make time!"
Red's mood fell before the woman even finished, his spirits plummeting. "Baby, you know I would love to go with you but..."
Liz's brow furrowed critically before realization dawned. The entire banquet would be full of law enforcement, meaning... Red couldn't go.
"Oh..." she nodded slowly, accepting the inevitable.
Red's heart ached when the woman's smile faltered slightly but caught the slip hastily.
"Well, it's not a big deal or anything." she retained her smile, shrugging the disappointment aside. "It's just at the Marriott. The guys can just accept on my behalf and–"
"You will not miss being recognized for all the hard work you do." he shook his head negatively, arising to his full height. "You, more than anyone deserves that award, Elizabeth."
Liz straightened the lapels on his jacket, "It is short notice and everything." she looked up at the man, her smile gentle and genuine this time. "I mean, I don't have a dress that's acceptable for that venue so..."
"So... you'll get one," Red held her eyes firmly, "today, when you're out with Maria."
Liz hesitated, uncertain now, "I don't know... it doesn't seem as much fun."
"For so long now, they cast you the outsider." he reminded. "This is your chance to shove it in their face... and remind them you are so much better than they are."
She chuckled despite herself, squeezing Red's hands. "Well, of course, I need to do that!"
"You go, have a wonderful time with your team," he encouraged, "and accept your just dues. You deserve this, Lizzy."
"Red," her lip quivered, "...you deserve to be there, more than anyone. You work so hard and have sacrificed so much." her eyes lowered sadly. "If you aren't there, I don't really..."
It twisted his gut he couldn't do this one thing for her. Well, not without her suffering the fallout from his attendance, anyway.
This is what he meant when he talked to Dembe and Silas about Marvin's email.
What the hell kind of life could he give her, damn it!
She had been practically vibrating with excitement; she had been so thrilled. Now, she was subdued and melancholy... ready to accept less than life could offer.
It killed him she felt this disappointment. He couldn't go with her to this special occasion in her life... because of who he was.
"You're going." his tone brooked no argument. "Silas and Joe will be your 'plus one'. They can even hook me up so I can see what's happening in real time." he reminded, pointing to her phone. "Technology is wonderful, isn't it?"
Sighing dejectedly, "It's a plus one," she reminded sullenly, "not a whole brigade."
"Does Samar need an escort?" Red grinned wickedly, happy to suggest the obvious for Silas' sake.
"Silas is gonna kill you for even suggesting that." Liz cocked a wry brow.
"He'll thank me later." Red dismissed.
"Should they go either?" she fretted. "They're just as 'wanted' as you are, in their own right."
Red shrugged indifferently. "I was not aware the Bureau performed background checks on dates."
He lay his forehead against hers, wishing he could take her pain away. He lingered, kissing her brow.
"Lizzy, please go," he cajoled quietly, wrapping his arms about her waist.
"...All right," she murmured softly. "But only to watch Silas' agitation being forced to be around his arch enemies all night."
"Once there, you'll have a wonderful time, baby." he encouraged. "Once that trophy is in your hand, you will feel so accomplished and as high as a kite."
"Make room on the mantle." she quipped, falling into his mood finally.
"I'm so proud...congratulations, baby," he lay a gentle kiss on her mouth, "I love you..."
Francis, still nursing the wound inflicted by the heartless, soulless Lia... decided he would join Red and Antonio after lunch.
Red wondered if he should warn Antonio, but in the end, if he had to suffer Francis' bitching and moaning, so did anyone else in the immediate vicinity.
So he didn't make the call.
"Lizzy," Red asked, seeing there was still time before the guests expected arrival, "do you still have the Stewmaker's list with you?" a thought had occurred.
Liz frowned, but nodded, "Yes, why?"
"Get it and bring it here, will you?"
"Red..." her brow furrowed, casting a quick glance to the kitchen, "Francis is here." she whispered a reminder.
"Just... get it for me." he assured quietly.
She shrugged mentally, heading off to the bedroom to fetch her laptop. As she came back, she heard Red speaking with Francis. The young man was on his second helping of dessert.
"I obtained a file of the Stewmaker's victims," Red sipped his coffee, "and I want your help to see if we can identify any of the unknowns."
"Why?" Francis murmured around his bite of cake. "I'm eating here." the gruesome nature of such a task was off-putting at such a time, after all.
Red shrugged carelessly, "I thought we might put to rest some of those questions concerning a few of our missing associates."
"Now that you mention it, I have wondered why I haven't heard from Max Taupin." Francis scraped the frosting from his plate, "It never occurred to me he could be... stew meat."
Over the next half hour, Francis corroborated Red's earlier list of victims.
"That's Stewart Cooke, isn't it?" Francis pointed at the screen. "Who knew his name would hold that much meaning..."
"Sweetheart, did I get number fifty-two in the last session?" Red gestured to her ream of paper to explain her presence.
Liz consulted her own list, showing Red the last entries confirmed. "...No."
They also found Max Taupin in the mix. "Well, there's old Max," Francis put his milk aside, sighing lightly. "We'll have to send flowers... but where?" he was suddenly confounded. "So l like, the Sanitation Department, you think?"
Sometimes the boy's logic disturbed Red somewhat.
With Francis' assistance, they identified another full section of the poor, unfortunate people inside the grisly book.
"Baby, are you ready to go?" Red subtly tilted his head towards Francis. "Antonio and Maria should be here shortly."
Liz understood Red was providing a reason for her to depart, that she could email the updated list to Samar. She took the moment provided, but once inside the quiet of her room, her stomach flip-flopped nervously.
Sending the list to Samar, Liz thought back to the last time she saw Maria. They had got along so splendidly, but she also had the party to act as a buffer. Now, it would be them... alone.
Shopping had never been a high-priority on her list. Only since Lia and Amanda had Liz taken the time to make an afternoon of it and enjoy time with friends.
She enjoyed talking about the wide array of subjects that arose. As they were the same age group, they all shared the same issues and clicked together very well.
Maria on the other hand was older, wiser and more sophisticated. Would Liz fit in circles Maria frequented? Who would she meet today? Could Liz pull off sophistication? Would she bore Maria to tears?
Why had she ever agreed to this outing? What had she been thinking?
Her hands shook as the sound of voices filled the foyer. The distinct sound of Antonio jovially greeting Red and Francis echoed down the hallway... followed by Maria's musical laughter.
The shaking in Liz's hands steadied at the lyrical sound and the knowledge... whether she fit in or not, she knew without doubt Maria was inherently kind and would show her the ropes.
Taking a deep calming breath, Liz grabbed her bag, ready to face this new, exciting challenge.
"Stop being a ninny, Elizabeth Keen!" she muttered to herself. "Put on your big girl panties and get the hell out there before Maria decides to ditch your ass!"
"A mishap?" Antonio noted the deep slit in Red's palm. "Piss off your old lady?" his eyes crinkled.
Red chuckled. He had taken off the bandage to replace it with a fresh one. "It itches."
"Means it's healing." Antonio watched Red reapply antibiotic ointment.
"No, I did this in a moment of sheer insanity." Red confessed.
"We all experience them from time to time." Antonio sipped his brandy. "Next time, try putting a volley of bullets into the nearest pillow or cushion."
"Didn't Elvis used to do that?" Red wrapped a long strip of gauze about his hand, securing the tail with practiced ease. "Only... he shot out tv's."
"It relieves a tremendous amount of tension and stress," Antonio shrugged carelessly, "with the least expenditure of energy... which is why it was the preferred method of the King."
Red grinned. "I can see where it might provide stress relief."
"... Unless it's your wife's most favorite decorative pillow." Antonio sighed his lament.
The older man glanced as Reddington look off across the room once again.
"Elizabeth is fine, Reddington." Antonio chuckled around the cigar dangling from his mouth.
Blinking, Red took his focus off the clock's face, turning his attention to his guest. "I'm sorry, what?"
"You've been staring at that clock on and off for over two hours." Antonio smiled warmly. "If there was a problem, we would have heard about it by now... and it would have been handled."
Red knew that, he had known that before Lizzy and Maria even left. As expected, Maria had drawn Lizzy into her sphere, instantly putting the young woman at ease with her gentle kindness and playful attitude. Lizzy had even been giggling as they walked out the door.
Silas also accompanied them, so Lizzy had that comfort at her back should she need it.
"It was a difficult night for Elizabeth." Red explained his absenteeism this afternoon.
"Is there something wrong?" Antonio frowned his concern.
"No," Red shook his head slowly, "no...you know how we are." he perfected a smile. "If our lady gets upset..."
"Then we are upset until we vanquish the problem." Antonio finished the statement as if it were gospel. "Old fashioned?" Antonio shrugged. "Perhaps."
"Elizabeth is fine," Red had to admit. "She rolls with the punches these days."
"It is you, however, that is not fine." Antonio idly rolled his cigar about the crystal ashtray, casting his companion a knowing look.
Red confided the previous day's activities concerning his reaction to the relics of his previous life... and what Lizzy had done for him in the aftermath.
He left out the portion pertaining to Lizzy's parents, of course, but Antonio got the general idea how their day fared.
Red also shared Marvin Gerard's email as well as his doubts about involving Lizzy in such a high-profile life. Again, he omitted key details such as Lizzy's occupation, but still...Red's doubts were plaguing, often disturbing his mental state.
"I never took you for a man who gave a damn about what society said." Antonio stated conversationally.
"Excuse me?" Red poured a splash of liquor into his tumbler.
"You have always jumped barriers..." Antonio reminded, "why you're allowing this one obstacle to rule your life is beyond me."
"Because it affects Elizabeth." Red refused to pretend he did not grasp what Antonio meant.
"If Elizabeth didn't see the good in you, she wouldn't be here." Antonio stressed.
That was the second time, in as many days, Red had been offered the same rhetoric.
"Looking back now," Antonio began, "a man sees the mistakes he made and how he could have changed things. He regrets not thinking of the solution earlier, correct?"
"...Yes," Red nodded.
"Don't look back on this time with regret." Antonio looked at Red expectantly. "One of these days, what plagues you now will no longer matter. Do you really want to be without Elizabeth when that day comes?"
Red stilled his reactionary desire to argue his point because... Antonio had a point. Antonio always had a point, usually a damned good one.
In the twenty-plus years Red had been at the game, he had made progress he had not believed possible at one time. Was there a likelihood things could change even more now with events he, himself, perpetuated?
"What'd I miss?" Francis asked, swaggering into the room with a bowl of popcorn under his arm, a beer cradled lovingly in the other.
Antonio glanced at the boy, shaking his head woefully. "Where did you get that?"
"I made it." Francis frowned at the odd question. "Why?"
"You just went in and raided the man's pantry," Antonio glanced between Reddington and the boy.
"Oh, Red doesn't mind in the least." Francis pulled the bowl closer. "I mean... I practically live here." he popped a couple kernels in his mouth. "I am a welcomed guest, right Red?"
"Okay," Red replied evenly, hiding his growing amusement admirably.
"Lizzy gave him a key." Red said in way of explanation, enjoying Antonio's exasperated expression.
"Of course she did." Antonio sighed his woe. "Why would she not?"
"Oh, yeah," Francis remembered, "I tossed a couple those pizzas in the oven, remind me will you. Don't want them to burn. I don't know how Nora could have deserted me at such a low period in my life!"
"Have you no shame?" Antonio had to ask.
"There's a pizza for you. I put one in." Francis soothed any worry. "I'm not a dick."
Red's laughter abruptly cut off as the muffled sound of Silas bitching filtered down the corridor from the main foyer.
Hastily pushing from their seats, the men rushed towards the aggravated sound.
Silas ushered a distraught Elizabeth inside the still opened entranceway, a dark scowl on the man's face.
Maria was close behind, her eyes gentle on the younger woman.
Red sent the guard a questioning glance, going to Elizabeth's side.
"Baby, what's wrong?" Red noted her tear-stained cheeks and messy mascara.
Lizzy seemed semi-composed at least, though the large blue eyes steadily holding his told him a different story.
Antonio was quick to follow, his concerned eyes on Elizabeth. "What happened, angel?"
"Who died?" Francis wanted to know. The man sat on the arm of a chair, munching his popcorn.
"It's all right... really." Liz managed a wane smile.
Taking the woman in his arms, Red peppered Lizzy's forehead with kisses, soothing her instinctively.
"Tell me," he whispered encouragingly.
Maria huffed her indignation, tossing her purse into a nearby chair... glaring daggers at her husband.
Stunned to be the sudden center of his wife's ire, Antonio took a step back... "What did I do?"
"You need to have a talk," Maria pinched her lips, "with Granger." she set stalwart hands on her shapely hips.
"...No," Liz sniffled from Red's jacket, "...no, it'll just make things worse." she sighed despondently.
"What the fuck did he do?" Antonio barked, his eyes darkening.
"We went to pick Lia up for our shopping excursion," Maria explained, "Granger met us at the door..."
Antonio nodded he was following along so far.
"He explained quite distinctly," Maria narrowed her pretty green eyes, "Lia could longer associate with Elizabeth... in a round about way granted, but the jest was there!"
"Excuse the hell out of me?" Antonio clipped his tone.
"He said..." Liz's lip trembled, "I was nothing b-but... t-trouble." she turned into Red's chest once more, her eyes pouring freely, her tone solemn and distraught.
Red's eyes closed painfully, hating to feel the slight tremor of apprehension which racked the small frame
He knew how important Lizzy's friendship with Lia had been. It had been wonderful to see her interacting with women outside the office.
He had especially enjoyed listening to Lizzy relate details of her fun filled days excursions.
But now, her past and present collided once again. Tearing away something she cherished. He ducked his chin, kissing the crown of her head lovingly, his heart breaking for her.
"That's what you get for hanging out with the enemy," Francis rubbed salt in the wound, "you little tartlet!"
"Francis!" Maria scolded, silencing the moping young man with a scathing glare.
Antonio flicked a smart swat to the back of the Francis' head, sending the boy a curt glance.
Chewing a mouthful of popcorn, Francis rubbed the back of his head, his face screwed up as he attempted to fix his hair back into place.
Red shot Francis a disgruntled look, soothing the devastated woman in his arms. "It's all right," he crooned, "we'll get this straightened out."
Clicking her tongue sympathetically, Maria stepped in behind Elizabeth, stroking the woman's back soothingly. "I am so sorry this happened, honey. We'll put it to right, I promise."
Red frowned at his head guard, his scowl deepening as he took in Silas' appearance. "What the hell happened to you?"
He glanced over at Silas' bloody fists and the bruising blossoming on the man's rugged face.
Antonio turned his attention towards Silas, gesturing to the guard's appearance.
"Is my head guard still alive?" he was curious as to the outcome of such a duel.
"Granger's still breathing..." Silas snapped. "...Barely."
"He won't be by the time I'm through with him." Antonio grumbled, yanking his phone free.
Liz sniffled, laying her temple against Red's chest. "No," she jutted her chin stubbornly, "... just leave it. I won't come between Lia and..." she huffed indignantly. "I won't put her in that position... just let it go."
She straightened her spine, swiping at the tale-tell mark of tears. "It's fine!" she decided. "It's just fine if that's how they want it!" she huffed, determined to emulate Maria's 'cool' façade.
"That's how it's gonna be." she decided. "Sure, I've had a few minor scrimmages here and there. I can see where Granger might be concerned." she sought Red out. "You would feel the same if it were me."
Red wanted to hurt Granger as badly as he hurt Elizabeth, but it would not change anything, only make Lizzy feel worse.
All he could do now was soothe the hurt. "I would not."
Antonio gave the younger man an exasperated look, hearing the outright lie pass Reddington's lips, though remained silent on the matter.
"Well, I wouldn't." Red snapped, then remembered to whom he spoke. "...I like to think I wouldn't at least."
Elizabeth clearly doubted his sincerity.
Antonio shrugged the issue aside, lifting a brow, waiting for a sign should Reddington wish for a different outcome.
Antonio reluctantly nodded his acquiescence, understanding Reddington's reasons when the younger man waved off any intended retribution.
"Come on, honey," Maria smiled sympathetically at Liz's tear-stained face, "let's go freshen up, hmm?" she brightened. "Then we'll go help Nora make a dinner visiting royalty would praise. Nothing cheers me up like a heaping plate of homemade lasagna."
"Lasagna sounds good." Liz had to admit. She imagined the combined talents of Nora and Maria would result in something heavenly.
Red released Lizzy to Maria's loving care, allowing the older woman to usher her from the room. His tension eased slightly, knowing Lizzy had that lifeline at least.
"Get Elizabeth's things from the car," Silas directed a couple guards who came on scene, hearing the commotion. The men inclined their heads, tending to the assigned task.
"All right," Red asked the moment the women got out of earshot, "what's the story on this shit?"
"There was a hitch in the planned activities," Silas began the tale. "Lia unexpectedly had to work late. In the meantime, Liz and Maria bought out two stores," Antonio hung his head, smirking, "then we headed out to retrieve Lia at three."
Red hoped, if nothing else, Lizzy had enjoyed spending quality time with Maria. It appeared she did to some extent if she had purchases in the car. As the guards brought in the aforementioned items, Red could see she did indeed find a little happiness this day.
"So we're standing at the apartment, waiting when imagine my surprise... Granger answers the door." Silas' mouth twisted distastefully. "Liz didn't even get a word out before he hit her with the decision he had made."
Red crossed his arms over his chest, scowling.
"Said Lia wasn't there yet, but he needed to explain a few things to Liz concerning Lia's welfare," the guard's eyes narrowed, "... and how association with Liz was detrimental to that welfare."
"How the hell does he justify what he does for me?" Antonio grated his discontent. "Wouldn't his connection with me serve the same purpose?"
Lifting a calming hand, Red stilled Antonio as the man shifted angrily at his side.
Red trembled with rage at the very thought some bastard spoke to Elizabeth in such a high-handed manner.
"And this," Red waved to the guards battered hands, "when did this happen?"
"I explained a few things to him about the proper way to address a lady." Silas grated irritably. "The son-of-a-bitch went down like the Bismarck... you really should hire better help, Sir." he remembered the proper way to speak to Antonio Crocetti.
Red had never liked Granger, but never took the bastard to be a true, dyed in the wool... well, asshole. Not really, anyway. Was he over-reacting?
Antonio snarled quietly, though remained silent allowing the guard to relate the events which took place.
Silas shook his head, shrugging. "Liz was floored, not expecting any of what went down." he snapped. "If the guy has issues, there was a better way to air his grievances, that's all I'm saying."
Francis pushed off the armrest, sitting his bowl aside. The man's aloof expression contorted to one of animosity. "Well, let's go explain that to him again, this time in more minute detail."
"Where was it left?" Red's eyes darkened.
"Lia obviously had no idea about what the prick had planned. She arrived on scene when the scuffle broke out." Silas related. "I guess seeing her snapped Liz back into focus because she hit me with her purse, which I took as a sign to stop beating the hell out of Granger."
"Good call." Red sighed heavily.
"We were breaking shit... we got a little rowdy, granted," Silas shrugged. "What the hell does she carry in that damned thing anyway? I got bruises here." he showed his massive shoulder as proof
Red felt the first smile since Lizzy got home touch his lips. This was one instance Red was glad Silas followed his instincts.
"I got in a few more hits before the warrior princess brought me down." Silas cocked an evil grin.
"Lia was heart-broken and clearly embarrassed as hell, especially with Maria standing there." Silas grumbled.
Red side-glanced Francis as the boy paced, his shoulders tense.
"That's when that fucker, Granger, basically told Lia," Silas hissed, "she could get hurt or killed hanging out with Liz and while they were dating," he air-quoted, "Liz and Lia were no longer allowed contact."
"And Lia accepted that?" Red frowned. Even as flighty as Lia could be at times, she didn't seem like the type to allow that behavior.
"Lia went ninja on his ass, got in his face for spewing that bullshit." Silas smiled at the memory of that little slip of a woman raging. "The battle was still waging when I grabbed Liz and vacated the premises."
"You left Lia alone with that asshole." Red felt instant concern. He glanced once more at Francis, finding the boy almost trembling, his anger was so acute.
"Hell, she didn't need any help." Silas was certain. "Granger was back-tracking and apologizing and shit. He knew he had over-stepped and was trying like hell to salvage his pride... and his life, if I'm any judge of character."
"Lia can take care of herself." Francis' quiet tone belied his churning emotions. "...I gotta go." the young man exited with no further word.
Antonio stayed Red's intended attempt to halt Francis's departure.
"Let him alone." Antonio murmured. "He'll work it out."
"I could just end the sorry excuse for a shitpile's existence." Silas suggested coldly. "It would settle matters, I mean... for everyone involved."
"You know, I more than anyone would love to see that eventuality," Red clenched his fists at his sides, "but it will only do more harm than good."
"I don't see how." Silas crossed his arms casually against his chest, reigning in his temper.
"It wouldn't instantly fix Lizzy's friendship with Lia," Red replied tightly, "and it sure as hell won't undo the damage Granger caused."
None were especially pleased with his explanations but accepted it, grudgingly.
"I need to make a call." Antonio yanked his phone free.
"Antonio..." Red sighed his disgruntlement.
"It's just a friendly call, Reddington. Don't be so judgmental." Antonio assured. "This reflects badly on me as well, you know." he scrolled his phone, jabbing a button. "I can't have such impulsive people working for me... Anthony Burke has been wanting him, now he has him."
The older man lifted the phone to his ear, his posture menacing. "I am very displeased with his conduct... and to have done all this in front of Maria?" the man seethed. "It's unconscionable."
Red remained silent on the matter.
Antonio had every right to dismiss who ever he desired, especially over an incident the man's wife witnessed first hand.
Clearly Maria was not a happy camper over Granger's handling of a situation. One that could have been discussed, quietly, beforehand.
"Granger, he didn't say anything... damning, did he?" Red murmured aside to Silas as Antonio busied himself with Granger's transfer.
"No, because he knows nothing anyway." Silas adopted the same tone. "The men know Liz's business is off-limits to outsiders." he reassured. "Granger was basing his ideology on what happened at Antonio's, with the sniper and shit."
Red tried to control the boiling rage he felt. He sincerely hoped he wouldn't see that bastard Granger for a long time because he truly believed he would have issue heeding his own advice he had just given the others.
"What are you really gonna do?" Silas read the anger in his friend's expression.
"All I can do," Red grumbled, "... damage control."