June 26th
The entire drive over and even before, when Silas escorted Samar down the steps of her apartment building, the evening took on a magical quality.
Joe and Liz rode up front, which vexed Silas no end. Once the man vacated the vehicle to secure Samar, Liz had scrambled to take the man's usual position.
To his everlasting amusement and approval, Joe even went so far as to assist in her transition, without getting one hair out of place.
Silas jerked a thumb, his expression a dark scowl for Liz to get back where she was supposed to be, but Liz stubbornly stayed put.
"Frowning gives you wrinkles," she quipped. "God knows you don't need anymore of those."
Samar's gentle chuckle made pushing the issue unthinkable, so Silas reluctantly relented with but a lethal glare for the subterfuge displayed.
Joe and Liz took great delight in stealing secretive glances back at the couple in the back seat from time to time.
Silas was solicitous itself, keeping a running conversation afloat, drawing his lovely companion out by gentle coaxing and concentrated attentiveness.
He totally ignored the two cretins in the front seat.
Gallantly assisting Samar from the car, Silas' gentle hand guided the woman into the spacious banquet hall upon arrival.
Liz stood, hands out to her side as her guard blithely left her in a lurch, standing by the car.
Laughing, Joe offered his services to the giggling woman. "Is this fun or what?"
Joe agreed it was. "I haven't seen him this smitten since he bought his first mirror."
"Well," Liz sighed lightly, shrugging slender shoulders, "can you blame the guy?"
Chuckling, Joe steadied her as they traversed the stairs, "He is pretty... or that seems to be the general consensus."
Tittering softly, Liz smacked Joe's arm, "I meant Samar." she gave her guard an exasperated glance. "I mean...look at her."
From the moment Silas retrieved Samar from her apartment, the man's expression flittered between stunned awe and incredulous appreciation for God's creative abilities.
Samar looked incredible.
Like Liz, Samar chose a knee-length cocktail dress, only the other agent's was a beautiful chiffon.
The stunning eggplant color made Samar's honey beige skin almost shimmer while simultaneously bringing out the exotic natural highlights in the woman's dark mocha hair.
Silas chivalrously offered his arm, escorting the bewitching beauty with an air of confidence and pride across the crowded space dotted by a large gathering of law enforcement and their better-halves.
More often than not, Silas guided by sense alone... too intent on dividing his interest between Samar's striking profile and the saucy swish of her backside.
While Liz wholeheartedly believed they would kill one another within a day were those two to proceed with exploring the obvious attraction between them...
She had to admit; they were an obscenely attractive couple.
Liz looked about the banquet hall, more than pleasantly surprised. There was quite a turnout, and all in attendance seemed in high spirits.
She supposed the offer of an evening out away from the kids and daily grind was a wonderful treat. Everyone appeared to have taken the opportunity to play dress up and relax in the adult-oriented atmosphere.
The hotel exceeded one's expectation. While the décor wasn't as fancy as the places she had frequented with Red of late, they did a wonderful job setting the mood.
The walls and ceiling shown with twinkling blue tinted light. Dark blue service plates, gleaming cutlery and crystal lay waiting against pristine tablecloths.
Delicious smelling white and blue floral centerpieces adorned each of the round tables.
Catching sight of her team, Liz approached their table, smiling in greeting. "Sir," she inclined her head, "... Charlene, it's so good to see you."
The women shared warm embraces, admiring one another's dresses.
"We've decided to go informal this evening, Elizabeth," Cooper stood, offering his hand, "...Samar."
Ressler stood from his seat, offering the ladies an obvious double-take. So accustomed to them in work attire, seeing them in eveningwear was a bit shocking.
"You guys look uh," Ressler swept the entire picture once more, "different... but great." he was quick to add, wincing after the long hesitation.
"Are you implying we don't normally?" Samar arched a teasing brow.
"No..." Ressler shook his head, then grimaced, "I mean... what I meant to say..."
"Thank you, Ress," Liz chuckled, putting the man at ease. "You clean up pretty nice yourself." she smiled at both Donald and Aram.
"Wow..." Aram glanced between Liz and Samar, openly gawking.
"Uh... nice ring," Ressler gestured to the rock on Keen's finger.
Glancing down at the ring in question, Liz smiled pleasantly, "It is, isn't it."
Ressler frowned for the woman's tone said... all discussion concerning her accessories was over.
Silas and Joe stepped, subtly clearing their throats, causing both Ressler and Aram to break their focus and welcome the ladies properly.
Joe held his grin as Silas eyed both with slight contempt... though for separate reasons.
While the head guard knew to remain quiet about Liz's attachment to Reddington, it didn't mean he wouldn't thwart any undue interest in the woman be it romantic or otherwise.
Regarding Samar, well... that was a no-brainer. Silas himself was interested in the woman and would go out of his way to ward-off any potential suitors.
Pulling their seats back, the guards gestured the ladies to take their place, much to Liz and Samar's delight.
"Did you two Google 'gallantry' this afternoon?" Liz teased. She halted abruptly, her hand grasping the seat hard. "Sorry... it's just, Silas would have pulled it out from under me." she apologized wanly.
Laughing quietly, Joe pushed the seat forward. Unbuttoning his jacket, he sat, glancing about his surroundings making note of nearby exits.
"Have we missed anything?" Samar smiled kindly at Silas when he took the seat beside her. "More to the point... have they opened the bar?" she craned her neck, glancing about the festivities.
Silas gestured for a passing waiter, receiving an instant response.
Drinks were ordered and refreshed, thereafter all enjoyed a splendid dinner, much to everyone's great surprise.
The general consensus seemed to be, all in attendance were grateful the Marriott, and not the Bureau handled the menu. For it was a well-known fact... the Bureau cafeteria was not known for its stellar choices in cuisine.
As staff cleared away plates, the gathered throng enjoyed a bit of mingling, the open bar and dancing.
Liz smiled as Cooper offered a hand to his wife, before joining the multitude on the gleaming hardwood dance floor.
She stifled a slight twinge of regret Red was not here to share a dance with her. She even missed Francis and his tacky disco ball.
"Well, that was just a maudlin thought." Liz muttered to herself, shaking the mood determinedly.
If she knew Red, they would share a private dance upon her arrival back home. The thought made her warm and tingly inside.
Sensing her melancholy and perhaps the reason for it, she was delighted and shocked when Joe offered a spin about the dance floor.
Determined to join in the festivities, Liz arose, smiling brightly.
"Don't you embarrass me. I refuse to Dab so... don't ask." Liz pointed a scolding finger.
"Well I do," Joe warned jokingly, striking a pose, "so prepare yourself."
"You didn't give me much warning," she teased right back.
She and Joe stayed close to Silas, if only to overhear any conversation which might take place between the striking couple seemingly lost in a private world they were creating.
Silas' brow furrowed darkly at one point, at which time Joe hastily steered Liz to a safer distance. Both tittered over Silas' consternation.
"We'll pay for that later," Joe prophesied.
Securing a drink at the open bar, Liz accompanied Joe back to their table, joining in on a lively debate Cooper and Charlene were having over the fact Pluto was no longer considered a planet.
"I was raised with nine planets!" Cooper insisted everyone see his point of view.
Charlene lay a gentle hand on his arm, "Darling... that was back before the Romans conquered Gaul." She held her amusement.
"I thought Gaul was Rome?" Aram was so confused now.
"How about a dance, Aram?" Liz soothed the rising tension.
Joe nodded, "I'm gonna hit on the blonde over there." he jerked a thumb in the needed direction.
Shaking her head at her guard's antics, Liz shared a quick, stumbling dance with Aram, as the man had one too many beers. She gamely accepted Wilson's offer to cut in on the dance, if for no other reason but to save her throbbing toes.
Focusing alert eyes, Silas glanced over Samar's shoulder, intent on Elizabeth and Wilson.
Offering her guard a wane smile, Liz weakly shrugged off his silent offer to intercede.
She didn't know Wilson well, but it seemed only polite to accept his offer to dance, considering she had with Aram and even Cooper.
Understanding the silent message, Silas nodded imperceptibly and backed off, though kept them in his line of sight.
Finding the man's lead easy enough to follow, they fell into a decent enough conversation about the venue and awards they may see coming up.
"If I may be so forward," Wilson tracked the tickling light dancing across Elizabeth's features, "you look very beautiful tonight."
"Oh," Liz smiled genuinely, "thank you. You look very handsome." she even approved of the man's more sedate tie. "All you guys clean up really well." she chuckled.
"What are you doing after the banquet?" he enquired politely.
"I suppose I should begin packing," she felt a surge of excitement at the thought. "I'm terrible about waiting until the last minute." she winced playfully.
Looking around the man's shoulder, Liz smiled as she caught sight of Silas and Samar taking to the dance floor once again, coming together with ease and grace in an even closer hold than before.
Her eyes narrowed in the next moment as Moore came into view. The man glanced about the dance floor only to scowl when he too noticed Samar and Silas dancing.
Her lips trembled with amusement when Joe stepped, gesturing to the barkeep. Striking up a conversation with the man, Joe used the ruse, subtly blocking view of the couple simply to annoy Moore.
"What about you?" Liz hastily asked, realizing her silence was of long duration. "Do you have plans?"
"Well, that depends," Wilson pulled at her waist, directing Liz away from an oncoming couple, "...would you care to have a drink afterwards?"
"You know, I didn't even think to ask if the guys had planned–"
"No...no," Wilson smiled, rubbing a thumb along her side, "I mean, just the two of us."
Liz blinked, realizing the man's intent. "Oh! Uhmm..."
She suddenly became very aware of the man's fingers gently stroking her waist and hand... more so, the hidden intent in the subtle gesture.
Knowing how difficult it was to ask someone for a date and the fact Wilson seemed like a nice enough guy, she felt awkward turning the man down flat.
Had circumstances been different, and she wasn't deeply committed to Red, she may have taken him up on the offer.
Clearing her throat, Liz smiled warmly up at the man, "I'm in a relationship."
Wilson frowned, glancing over his shoulder at the hand tapping it.
"May I cut in?" Ressler smiled good-naturedly, holding his hand out in invitation.
"As I also mentioned, I do have an early start in the morning." Liz hastened to politely decline Wilson's offer. "But thank you for the invitation, Wilson." she was careful to use the man's surname.
Smiling genially and thankfully, Liz politely excused herself, taking Ressler's offered hand.
"Just... don't step on my toes." she hastily offered a quip to break the awkwardness, "Aram abused them enough all ready."
"Bad dancer?" Ressler chuckled, pulling Liz into frame.
"More like, he's a light-weight." Liz grinned. "Three beers and he's three sheets to the wind."
Watching the exchange with keen eyes, Silas' attention remained on Wilson watching the couple move away. Moore shifted into his field of vision, a dark scowl on his face. Did the man have no other facial expression?
The delightful sound of Samar laughing at whatever the hell Joe said had Silas turn towards his companions.
Dividing his attention between Liz and the woman beside him, Silas leaned casually against the bar, enjoying the conversation.
While he wasn't Red, Liz was pleased Ressler at least had some rhythm. Quickly finding the tempo, both moved along with ease across the dance floor.
"This isn't as bad as I thought it would be." Ressler admitted, side-stepping a couple beside them so as to not collide.
"Yeah, it's very nice." Liz agreed. "I'm pleasantly surprised."
"I bet too, for you, it's nice to have a night off from Reddington." Ressler chuckled.
"If you must know," Liz lifted expressionless eyes, "I was thinking, Red deserved to be here with us." she corrected her partner's assumption.
Ressler canted his head. "Why do you say that?"
"I've never been up for a merit award before, have you?" she asked curiously. She didn't know Ressler before the task force and was unaware of his record.
"Uh, no..." Ressler admitted, "not to date."
"So... probably neither of us would be here had it not been for Red's assistance." she reminded.
"We do good work." Ressler frowned at the assumption.
"We do, yes." she agreed. "But you have to admit, our solve rate has increased tremendously due to Red's insight and involvement."
Ressler had the grace to look sheepish. Liz made a good point. Without Reddington, he closed about twenty to twenty-four cases a year... which was well beyond Bureau standards granted, but no one seemed to take any real notice.
But with Reddington's assistance, they could end a case each week. Meaning they could remove fifty-plus psychos from society a year.
"Red should be here," she stressed, "but instead, you know what he gets?"
Ressler's brow furrowed hearing the quiet ire building in Liz's tone.
"Red receives all the blame and censure." she bristled. "I tossed most of that blame around in the past, so I should know."
Ressler's brows rose for the woman's suddenly chilly demeanor.
"You know, when we returned that baby home to his parents... you remember that case?" she related the tale. "The father blamed Red for kidnaping his child."
Ressler drew back, admittedly shocked by the story. "Why the hell would he think something like that?"
"Because... he's Raymond Reddington." Liz stressed the name, as if that was enough explanation.
"So that Reddington flew the kid home... didn't register?" Humankind's reasoning sometimes baffled Ressler.
"That Red put all his resources to ensure the kid's safe return was conveniently forgotten in the heat of the moment?" Ressler had not known of the confrontation. "What did Reddington do?"
"Tried to explain it away... said the guy was scared, tired," she shook with anger even now, thinking about how that man treated Red. "But I knew... the accusation alone, hurt."
Ressler faltered in his steps, disturbed by the tale.
"After all he's done for the task force, and the world in general, he's shunned and condemned." Liz fumed. "While we get the accolades." she waved a distracted hand to the banquet hall and its many inhabitants.
Life wasn't just unfair, it fucking sucked at times.
"That's the thanks Red gets for the help he provides." she snapped quietly.
Liz's arms fell to her sides, her mood dampened considerably now. "And tonight, he can't be here with us, where he rightfully belongs."
Lifting pained eyes, she looked at her partner straight on. "Excuse me... I-I need to freshen up."
Ressler nodded slowly, remaining silent as the woman inhaled shakily, controlling her agitation.
Ducking her chin, Liz walked off the dance floor without a backward glance.
Joe frowned as Liz rushed past him. Quickly excusing himself, he followed the woman as she neared a quiet alcove.
"Hey, you all right?" Joe said, coming to her side.
She nodded, holding up her phone. "Just gonna check in with Red real quick." she forced a smile.
Joe's brow lifted, but he stepped back, discretely allowing the woman a moment.
Standing guard, his senses tickled as though he and Elizabeth had suddenly become the center of attention.
Cautiously scanning the area, Joe subtly adjusted his position, entirely blocking the eyes following the woman's retreat.
Red snatched the phone off the tabletop, flinging it open before the first ring even stopped. "Sweetheart..."
"Hi..." Liz smiled wanly, pressing the phone closer to her ear. It was so good to hear his voice.
"Is everything all right?" Red questioned instantly, hearing the wavering tone.
"Yeah, everything's good," she forced a lighter mood, "just wanted to check in, see how you were doing."
"Is Moore bothering you?" he began the process of narrowing down what could have upset Lizzy.
"Nothing's bothering me," she settled. "I just missed you."
Scanning the room quickly, Liz located the Agent in question. Moore and Wilson sat apart from her team at an opposite table with other Agents from the Blacksite.
"No, actually. Now that you mention it, I have not spoken to him tonight."
"Well, something's wrong." he softened his tone. "I can sense it."
"Oh, you know me." she strained for a lighter mood. "Only you can make me believe I'm the center of attention, and you know how I insist upon being the center of attention."
Red's heart ached, hearing the undertone of her message. "It's one of your many failings, honey," he sobered. "... Can I do something to help?"
"I won't keep you..." closing her eyes, she rubbed her thumb against the phone, silently wishing it was Red she was touching. "I just wanted to hear your voice, and also make sure you weren't wasting too much money on those adult sex lines."
"Dembe cuts me off at a certain amount." Red was quick to assure. "...I'm right here and hearing your voice is exactly what I need too."
"Well, there's Joe too," she smiled at the man standing guard. "I know he wants to get back to that gaggle of blondes that were fawning all over him."
Joe glanced back, lifting a staying hand indicating he was fine where he was, in truth. He still could feel undue attention focused on them and had yet to pinpoint its source. The sensation was... unsettling.
"I'll, uh..." she cleared her throat, "I'll be home soon, okay."
"I love you, Lizzy." Red's mood fell. "Don't forget that either, all right?"
Whatever it was that happened, he understood above all else... she had just needed to reconnect, to hear his voice.
"I love you too." she murmured quietly. "And that's exactly what I needed you to say..." she whispered before severing the call.
Slowly closing the phone, Red's shoulders dropped dejectedly.
Resuming his restless trek about the room, Red's thoughts unsettled.
Dembe concealed his smile as Raymond paced past his location, once again... as he had done since Elizabeth's departure.
"Silas will establish connection soon, Raymond." Dembe assured, glancing at his watch.
"It's bullshit, watching Lizzy accept something she's worked so hard for through that fucking phone... and you know it!" Red grumbled, stalking the room once more.
Reaching for his bookmark, Dembe trailed his friend's agitated state, sitting the book in his lap.
"She's upset..." Red grumbled his agitation. "I should be there, damn it!"
"So... go." Dembe placed his marker, sitting his book aside.
Red scowled, stopping in his tracks. "What?"
"Get changed and we shall go to the hotel." Dembe suggested evenly. "If that's truly what you wish to do."
"We discussed this," Red narrowed his eyes, "I will not ruin Elizabeth's evening, no matter the price paid."
"Raymond," Dembe pushed from his seat with a long suffering sigh, "it's at the Marriot."
"Are you deliberately trying to piss me off?" Red snapped. "I know it's at the Marri–"
"The same Marriot we visited a couple months ago," Dembe jogged the man's memory, "to determine if William's was double-dealing."
Red frowned a moment, recalling the incident before understanding dawned. They knew the layout and how to work that to their advantage.
"Dembe, call Rogelio, tell him to alert staff of our arrival!" Red directed. "I'll get the car!"
"Raymond," Dembe gestured to the man's jeans.
The man hesitated, not wishing to miss Lizzy's big moment.
"The awards ceremony begins at eight," Dembe knew the itinerary, "you have half an hour, at least."
Without another word, Red rushed from the room, mindless to Dembe's quiet laughter.
Liz clapped mechanically, adopting a fixed smile as yet another Agent approached the podium.
She admittedly chuckled when boisterous applause from Agent's teammates accompanied his trek. His accomplishments were noteworthy, yes. But that his team members obviously liked the guy meant more in Liz's book.
Glancing down at the napkin clutched tight in her fists, she quickly unwound the crisp linen from her fingers, taking a clarifying breath. If Red knew she felt the least bit melancholy over his absence... she'd never hear the end of it.
She knew Red couldn't give a damn about the accolades. It was only important, she now believed his intentions were good and true.
But still... the entire evening seemed empty and meaningless now.
"I'm establishing a link to Red now," Silas said for her ears only.
Smiling wanly, Liz nodded her approval even if she silently believed... they would call her team dead last.
It only made sense she would have to sit through the entire banquet because, let's face it, life was a cruel mistress to her most of the time.
She was pleased, however, everyone to date delivered short speeches full of gratitude to their friends and families.
Applause followed the end of another speech followed by laughter when the Agent's date greeted him with an exuberant and loving kiss as he returned to their table.
An irritated shift beside her drew Liz's attention towards her guard. "What's wrong?"
"I can't establish connection." Silas grumbled his irritation. Pushing his seat back absently, the guard glanced at length, locating a quiet nook. "I'll be a second."
Liz fretted, an anxious look on her pretty features, "Red will be so upset if–"
"Silas will get a connection, don't worry." Joe patted her hand consolingly. "If not, Silas will let Red hear you live... and I'll record it."
Liz nodded after a moment's consideration. "That would work, I guess."
If nothing else, Red could hear her if she got a turn at the microphone. Then see the images later. That was a suitable compromise.
Breathing easier, she focused on the event at hand.
A female Agent's quick wit and snarky remarks concerning her partner's cliché 'donut' fascination elicited a quiet chuckle despite Liz's subdued mood.
After another failure, Silas opted to physically input the number, punching the keys hard as humanly possible.
Finally the screen lit, showing Red's face come into view.
"What the hell happened!" Silas grunted quietly. "I called five times, damn it!"
"Ran into interference." Red explained. His aggravation over the entire evening was already sky-high.
"Did I miss it?" Red's voice alone spoke of the man's disappointment, but his expression... was anger personified.
"No... only because I had the foresight to attempt an early connection." Silas reassured. "Good thing I did."
Red knew Silas would have done whatever he could to establish some sort of communication between them... but to see the event in real time was better.
Silas canted his head curiously as the screen on Red's end bobbed about, as though the man was walking.
"Are you in a damned tunnel or something? Where are you!" Silas fell silent, half-ass listening as the speaker began praising the merits of teamwork. "Wait a minute, I think Liz's team is up... just a second."
Red quickened his steps as Silas held the phone aloft, focusing on Lizzy's pretty face.
God, she looked good. Her dress and hair appeared to shimmer in the muted overhead lights. Her skin glowed under the dark blue hue of the room, highlighting her regal stance and long neckline. She looked so beautiful.
Red's temper dropped to nil, his breathing easing finally.
Turning his attention to the words being spoken, Red had to give it to the Bureau, at least for the praise offered to Lizzy and her team.
The host spoke of the highest solve rate for the year and excelling past Bureau standards... he also hit on the bond the team shared and trust they achieved through hard work and diligence.
They included Moore and Wilson in this achievement, Red knew, but didn't believe they warranted such praise. They were outsiders. In his humble opinion, they had not put in the time or effort to earn the coveted award being presented.
Sharing a quick smile with Dembe when Lizzy's name, along with those in her team, were read aloud, Red resisted the urge to clap.
Holding the phone close, he watched Lizzy's shoulders straighten and pretty chin lifted proudly.
He smiled as Cooper and Charlene and the neighboring table stood, clapping heartedly as the team lifted from their seats.
He heard the distinct congratulatory whistles of Silas and Joe over the applause, a grin crossing his face.
Lizzy, too, heard it, waving an embarrassed hand to Silas who pointed the camera at her.
Liz rolled her eyes, issuing the camera an impish smile and minute wave to Red.
Red's grin widened when Lizzy unexpectedly and enthusiastically hugged her teammates.
Moore interceded when Lizzy would have taken her rightful place in the procession to the podium.
Wilson had the good grace to gesture Elizabeth ahead of him in line, a vexed scowl on his face for Moore's tactless maneuver. He leaned, whispering an apology of sorts. Liz smiled kindly back at the man.
"Elizabeth appears most displeased with Moore's inclusion." Dembe smiled at the woman's surly expression as Elizabeth glared at the back of Moore's head.
"Rightfully so," Red grumbled his own displeasure. "...Bastard."
Red felt decidedly better when Ressler stepped to her side, offering an arm like a gentleman before ascending the stairs. He was pleased to note, Samar followed, on the arms of Wilson and Aram.
Accepting her award, Red's eyes softened as Lizzy fixated on the words etched into the glass.
The others practically shoved Ressler to the forefront, forcing the man to the microphone.
The crowd chuckled when the put-on-the-spot Agent gamely took the bullet for his team, allowing the others to get their bearings.
The Agent offered a short but heartfelt shout-out to his team members and family praising such a wonderful support system and enriching environment to work in.
Afterwards, he strategically blocked any avenue to the mic before subsequently waving Samar forward.
Moore sent the guy an impatient, almost surly look, sensing the ploy.
Wilson grinned his amusement, seeking Elizabeth out, offering his spot should she wish it.
Stepping unto the small private balcony high above the banquet floor below, Red perused the gathered throng, waiting patiently in his concealed alcove.
He made it...
Aram stammered through an ill-thought out speech.
Lizzy smiled warmly as Aram gratefully exited the spotlight, making way to take her place in the honored position.
Silas zoomed in on her image, allowing Red a close up view of the woman as she looked out over the audience.
Straightening her shoulders, Liz took a breath to control the butterflies she felt inside. Her team had offered perfunctory speeches to allow all a chance to speak meaning... she now had to return the favor to allow Wilson and Moore their own time.
Damn them! It may be callous of her, but their presence at this moment annoyed the hell out of her. She had desperately wished to convey how much Red's presence in her life really meant.
Well, if anything, once all was said and done she could leave, so that was a selling point in itself. She would soon be where she truly wished to be.
"I wished to thank my team... they are unique people I have come to admire and respect. The long hours are taxing and draining and good morale is difficult to achieve unless you have people like these guys around," she motioned, "who make it easy to stay focused and motivated."
She glanced out at her guards, "I'd also like to thank my family, for caring for both my emotional and physical well-being."
She held her smile when her head guard rolled his hand, as if encouraging her to continue praising him. She continued on. "And for putting up with my grumpy moods."
"Like we had a choice." Silas muttered through the phone, earning a small chuckle from Red and Dembe.
Red lifted the camera, concentrating on Lizzy's eyes suddenly focusing on the camera in Silas' hand. "I hope you know just how very much I love you."
Red heard her loud and clear, his heart beating erratically. While she loved her guards and thought of them as her family, she mainly related that last bit... solely for his benefit.
Thankfully, Moore and Wilson too kept their speeches short before all returned to their seats, leaving Lizzy to approach her guard.
"I guess we can go now." she whispered to Silas.
Never before in his life had Red texted so fast. "Stall her!"
Silas glanced down as the phone in his hand vibrated, highlighting a small box.
"What?" Liz tried to peer at the screen as the guard flicked to the message.
"Red was congratulating you." Silas improvised.
Red breathed as the man gave him a moment to explain.
"Oh..." he could hear the smile in Lizzy's voice. "Did he get to see any of it?"
"She's up for her own award." Red typed quickly, as to the reason for the stall tactic.
Liz glanced once more as the slight buzz as the phone hummed in the subdued surroundings.
Quiet murmuring of guests preceded the next presentation.
"She doesn't know." Red typed, sending the message.
"Yes, he saw it," the guard replied as the phone once again vibrated, showing him the following message.
"It's a surprise." Red added.
"What'd he say?" Liz smiled happily, eager to know Red's reaction.
Silas glanced up at the woman, keeping his expression completely neutral. "He said, and I quote... "the camera really does add ten pounds."
Red laughed quietly hearing Lizzy's disgruntled sigh.
"You were supposed to have the camera pointed at me," Liz tsked irritably, "... not yourself."
Red's mouth cocked into a wry grin for her amusing retort.
"Red said he was impressed by how much bigger your boobs looked in HD than in person," Silas mentioned in passing.
Rolling exasperated eyes, Red shook his head as Dembe laughed quietly at his side.
"Her breasts are perfect, you dumbass," Red texted, just on the off chance he needed proof later Silas did not speak for him.
"He wondered if you might be interested in implants," the guard covered for the arriving texts.
"It's a wonder she doesn't kill you." Red typed, earning a smile from Dembe.
"It'd be tacky to leave before the ceremony ended," Silas continued, giving her a scolding look. "You win your award and just leave? How gauche."
"Well, it better end soon, I don't care how 'gauche' I seem... I'm outta here!" Liz snapped her fingers with defiant panache.
Silas grinned as the woman spun on her heel, walking back towards the table without a backward glance.
"Sometimes I amaze myself." Silas muttered into the phone.
"When she stomps off like that... your sex life takes a hit soon thereafter, remember." Red advised.
Silas scowled at the rather keen observation... and odd echo filtering through the phone. "Where the hell are you?"
"In the balcony behind you." Red said. "Don't look... it'll be a dead giveaway."
Dembe grinned as the guard scoffed his disgust, "Do you think I'm an amateur at this shit?"
Silas waved the phone about before righting it, "And why the hell am I still holding this thing?"
"If you aren't holding it," Red stressed, "Lizzy will think I'm not seeing what's happening."
"Whatever..." Silas grumbled. "Shut up, I'm sitting down." he said, retaking his seat beside Liz.
Inching closer to the low wall, Red watched Lizzy quietly interact with her team as they presented two other awards.
Pacing restlessly, Red waited anxiously until the following introduction spoke of, special people decoding a criminal's mind.
"You better get this for posterity's sake, dumbass..." Red sent the warning text, suspecting they were describing Elizabeth.
Dembe leaned towards Red, both men peering down at the camera panning casually towards an unsuspecting and oblivious Elizabeth Keen.
"In recognition for selfless dedication and tireless efforts..." the speaker's words quietened the gathered audience.
Liz glanced upward, sipping her wine, giving her attention over to the speaker.
"Agent Elizabeth Keen has exemplified the character traits of: devotion to duty, sincerity of purpose and genuine concern for all." the speaker continued, smiling pleasantly over in the woman's direction.
Red's throat tightened as Lizzy searched out her teammates in utter shock.
He smiled his delight as he heard Cooper's scratchy chuckle of merriment witnessing his Agent's reaction to the totally unexpected reward.
Dembe grinned widely when Joe took the loose wine glass from Lizzy's shaking fingers, laughing at her stunned expression.
A radiating warmth settled in Red's chest when Lizzy looked straight into the lens of the phone, knowing without doubt... he was sharing this moment with her.
Patting his friend's arm, Dembe's amusement grew as Raymond checked hastily between the screen and the woman down below, not wishing to miss one second of Elizabeth's reaction.
"Agent Keen's unparalleled contributions to the Behavioral Analysis Unit have netted the highest capture rate this year." the speaker proudly stated to all in attendance.
Liz barely heard the applause of her peers over the sound of her pounding heart and the affectionate laughter of her teammates for her stupefied reaction.
"If you would, Agent Keen," the orator held her statue aloft, "come accept your most deserved reward. You have more than earned it."
Silas nudged the woman to go, chuckling. "So, are you ready to leave now, or what..." the man teased, "you were wanting to get home, right?"
Red smiled as Samar eagerly shooed Lizzy towards the stage, clapping happily for her friend and teammates achievement.
Camera still in hand, Silas followed Liz's movements each step of the way. Joe offered her a much-needed arm, escorting her up the steps.
Taking the heavy award by rote, Liz stared in awe at the beautifully etched crystal, unsure what to do or even say.
All in attendance were pleased to witness such a moment, especially upon the realization... no one forewarned Elizabeth and this was a truly shocking moment for the woman.
"Speech!" Joe clapped heartily, snapping Liz out of her fog.
"Shut up!" Liz gasped at the added stress, then sheepishly blushed at the audience chuckling their appreciation for Agent Keen's predicament, glad it was her and not them.
Placing a shaking hand to her forehead, Liz giggled nervously, "I'm sorry, I didn't expect this... at all, really!"
Red's heart thumped proudly in his chest, feeling Lizzy's excitement even up here in the rafters. He had never been so damned happy in his life, seeing that heavy crystal plaque in her small hands.
His pride surged as the woman took a breath and admirably adapted to her moment in the spotlight... like she had with every new adventure thrown her way these days.
"Where to start?" she waited for some coherent thought to form. She glanced at her table, smiling widely, "This wouldn't be possible without my team."
"Are we included in that group?" Dembe asked, drawing a small laugh from Raymond.
"They make the job bearable," she told the truth as she saw it. "When facing danger and uncertainty, having people you can trust and rely on to have your back... makes all the difference."
Red shifted warm eyes to the woman's team, finding them all staring back at her with open affection and respect.
"I'm lucky to have such friends that can make me laugh... that I can enjoy a drink with after a rough day." Liz said. "When the hard times come and we all know they will... its wonderful to know there is a group of people who will always be there to understand, no matter what."
Liz's eyes drifted upwards, gathering her thoughts for the most important individual in her life.
How could mere words let Red know how much he meant to her? To do so, and keep the words private... just for him...
Words escaped her; she floundered for a brief moment.
A movement caught her eye, something blurred in her peripheral vision.
Just as she formed a sense of what to say, the blurred object shifted into focus.
A dark blue fedora crested on the edge of the balustrade.
Holding her breath, her heart raced as the shadowed vision came closer... and the cherished sight of Red Reddington stepped into view.
Leaning his forearms onto the decorative rail, Red's attention focused squarely upon her.
Silas' eyes softened as he noted Liz's lips quivering with emotion.
"Reddington's here," he informed his constituent, feeling Joe's restlessness at his side. "She just realized the fact. She'll be fine... give her a second."
Joe relaxed, "How the hell did–"
"Where there's a will, there's a way." Silas shrugged the question aside. "Only he would chance coming to this damned place." he glanced at the law enforcement surrounding them. "The guy's a crackpot."
"Or fucking gutsy." Joe chuckled his pride for the size of his boss' balls.
The breath left Liz's body for a beat, then the blood raced unchecked through her veins.
Liz shifted her attention between Red and the now noticeably restless crowd.
"There is one other individual I think should be included in tonight's honors... I would like to thank our resident CI."
Red's mouth pulled at the corner for the woman's brazen, and even defiant, bravado. Antonio was right, the woman had spirit.
"...Without whose assistance, guidance and partnership our jobs would be so much more difficult to accomplish." Liz continued. "I can't thank him enough for providing actionable Intel and defense against possible danger when other sources fail us."
Red glanced at the gathered crowd, finding them a little stunned by Lizzy's unexpected declaration.
Were they all honest with themselves, they knew CI's provided the scoop on pertinent information, if not life-saving Intel, whether they wished to admit it aloud.
But then, they didn't have to... Lizzy had just done it for them.
"I would also like to thank my family at home," Liz turned, staring at her guards... and the phone in Silas' hand.
No one had to know she was talking not to her family in Nebraska... but her new family.
Dembe stepped, placing a hand on Red's shoulder, squeezing it warmly.
"I know they're disappointed to have not been here tonight to share in this moment with me, but..." she trailed off, tracing the edge of her award.
It still stung Red, he wasn't allowed down there with her... but he was grateful to have seen it in person, however.
He was grateful Dembe urged him to follow his heart.
"Being there when I need them most," Liz slowly glanced upward, "and having their love and support... that's what matters." she smiled thankfully. "I'll shut up now and...thank you so much for this." she held the award aloft.
"It was a good speech." Dembe smiled as Joe offered his hand, helping Liz down the stairs.
Red swallowed at the knot in his throat, both proud and humbled. "It was a damn good speech."
It pleasantly surprised Red how adept Elizabeth had been at finding a way to say what she needed. It was done in such an artful, acceptable way... no one could really find fault.
A few eyebrows might have been raised, but all in all, her words held an honest sincerity which all understood and accepted.
She also managed to set Red's thinking a little more clearly.
Yes, they were both disappointed they couldn't attend the evening's festivities together...
It simply wasn't the right time for her peers to accept their developing relationship, but at the end of the night, and all the days to follow...
Lizzy had made it clear; the important thing was that they would be together and that they would still have one another.
Her idea of family shifted. She considered Red an integral part of her existence. Nothing had been said in actual words, but words were not needed.
Were Red to ask Lizzy, she would now say, she was no longer an only child. Silas, Joe and Francis were like her brothers. Dembe, the wise, sagely Uncle that everyone turned to when in doubt. Nora was a favored Aunt whom Lizzy viewed as a confidant and best-friend. Maria and Antonio were foster-parents who stepped forward to claim her as their own.
And Red?
Well, the man hoped Lizzy considered him the glue which held it all together for her.
Red left that banquet hall that night with renewed purpose.
The desire he felt to correct an error made twenty-some odd years ago became paramount.
He made a promise to himself and Elizabeth Keen that night... he would do whatever it took to provide Lizzy a partner she was proud to walk beside and share these special moments with... openly.
Red would be damned if he went to his grave, delivering any less for the woman he loved.
After the banquet came to a close, Silas' orders were to congregate Lizzy, her team and Cooper for a congratulatory drink at a nearby club.
Quickly departing out the back, Red and Dembe made a beeline for the club, securing a VIP room to wait for the others to arrive.
Red sat now, patiently sipping an Old Fashioned, watching Dembe hit up on one of the waitress's attending the room for the duration.
The bustling sound of people speaking over each other drifted down the corridor leading to the room. Red stood, placing his drink aside, absently adjusting his vest.
Silas opened the heavy doors as Joe ushered Lizzy and the group inside the brightly lit room.
He smiled happily as Lizzy neared, clutching her awards, beaming her excitement.
"Look what I got!" she waved the heavy crystal about haphazardly.
It took everything he had not to sweep the woman into a crushing hug.
"Something to put on the mantel... finally." he quipped, offering handshakes and welcoming hugs all around.
"Let me see what you have here." Red grinned, relieving Lizzy of the nearest award, glancing down at the prize.
"That's the one we got for the team," Liz stood at his shoulder, grinning, pointing out the engraving. "They spelled Aram's name incorrectly on his though." she pouted for the man.
"It's spelled just how it sounds." Aram, clearly heart-broken and three sheets to the wind still, frowned morosely.
"It's very nice." Red held it aloft for Dembe to see.
Ressler narrowed his eyes suspiciously before realizing Reddington was being sincere.
"Are they all the same or..." Red glanced at the others. He smiled when all presented their award to the man, eager to show their pride over the awards.
"These are very well made... the crystal is exquisite." Red praised their prized possessions.
Whoever had ordered them did a wonderful job. Aram and Ressler's were more masculine. Each had an engraved flag backdrop and bold print. Lizzy and Samar's backdrop were of whimsical swirls and loops and flowing print.
"And this one...?" Red teased, his eyes twinkled with delight when Lizzy blushed a deep red.
Cooper's husky laughter deepened the blush, "I'm glad you didn't tell her," the man's eyes softened, "you should have seen her face!"
"You knew!" Liz gaped at Red. "You knew and didn't warn me!"
"Where would have been the fun in that?" Red wrapped an arm about her shoulders, kissing her temple.
He stilled in his tracks, realizing what he had just done. More to the point, Lizzy hadn't balked at the unexpected affection.
Thankfully, all took the actions in stride, even seemed to think it amusing as if he were placating her scolding tone.
"And I did see..." Red corrected the misconception.
All mouths dropped for the sheer audacity of such a statement.
"I was there for the big moment." he assured.
The sound of Dembe and Silas popping corks on champagne bottles signified the celebration was to begin, taking the attention for the moment.
"How the hell did you..." Cooper gawked, his mind stymied.
"Doesn't matter," Red shrugged, "all that matters is... I got to share in their moment, if only from afar."
Lifting the glass Dembe offered, Red offered congratulatory toasts.
The night progressed into the wee hours of the morning, no one wanting to end the magic.
No one noticed or even questioned the close proximity Red and Liz shared all evening. Even as they sat beside one another, it seemed not only expected but accepted.
As the evening drew to a close, Lizzy was as bubbly as the champagne they consumed.
After ensuring Ressler and Aram were poured safely into the confines of a cab, the rest of the guests congregated outside the covered entrance of the club.
"This is a night I won't soon forget," Cooper stated, taking in a fresh breath of air.
"It was enchanting, thanks to you interceding, Red." Charlene was careful to thank their host. "That food was delicious. I didn't even realize I was hungry again!"
Red couldn't help but chuckle at the sound of Lizzy and Samar's excited chatter to his left.
"He thinks of everything!" Samar interceded. "The man is a veritable genius at such things."
"No one is driving, so...how are we doing this?" Red asked the proverbial question of those gathered.
"Joe, drive Director Cooper and his lovely wife home." Silas took charge, then turned to Samar. "Agent Navabi, if you have no objections, I will escort you to your apartment."
Ducking his chin, Joe hid his grin, clearing his throat quietly.
Holding his expression, Red nodded slowly, "All right..." he agreed, "you make sure she gets inside and secure."
While anyone else may have thought Red was playing wingman... he wasn't.
Unaware at the time of the layout of the city, Samar rented the first place available upon her arrival.
Red had not been pleased she picked a less than stellar area and offered an apartment in a more secure neighborhood.
Samar, determined woman she was, wished to finish her lease before upgrading to a new place. Which was, thankfully... very soon.
While he knew the woman was more than capable of taking care of herself, she was a bit...inebriated, to say the least.
Though not drunk, her reflexes were slowed and her attention distracted. Red would feel better were Silas there to watch her back.
"I will see to it... if the lady so wishes?" Silas assured, offering the woman his arm.
Samar turned, listing towards Silas slightly until the man was forced to help find her footing.
"Damn heels..." Samar tsked, smiling at nothing in particular before seeking out her 'escort'. "If the lady so wishes, humm?"
"That's what I said," Silas' mouth curved into a genuine smile.
Red shook his head, sighing when Lizzy scrunched her nose adorably. "Aren't they the cute–"
The statement was thankfully cut short by the arrival of Cooper's vehicle.
Keeping his own steadying hand on Lizzy, Red gestured to Joe, "Is it all right if Joe here drives your car?" Red checked graciously.
Cooper frowned a moment before realizing he was being addressed. "Well, I'm sure as hell not in any shape to do it."
Charlene laughed musically at her husband's unintentional pun.
"Just want you to get home safe and sound," Joe opened the backdoor, gesturing the man and his wife inside.
Charlene smiled her surprise, but gamely slid into the backseat.
Cooper reached, patting Red on the arm. "I'm glad you could be there tonight," the man's speech slurred slightly, "and... thanks for the after party." he smiled. "It was nice to spend time."
"Goodnight, Harold," Red leaned, peering inside the car to a peacefully resting... "Charlene, have a delightful time on your trip."
Red grinned as Cooper hesitated at the backdoor, wondering if it would be rude of him to sit there and leave Joe alone in the front.
"Get in, Harold." Red urged. "Joe would rather you throw-up in the back rather than his lap."
Joe shrugged, smiling at the tall man. "Yeah, do that please."
Chuckling, Cooper folded himself in the back, leaving Joe to the driver's position.
Before Red could question how Joe would get home, the man pulled away without a backward glance.
"I can get him." Silas read Red's thoughts easily enough. "Come along Agent Navabi." he nudged the beauty from Liz's chatter. "Be a good little Agent. Don't give me any trouble."
Grinning wickedly back at Lizzy, Samar gave the head guard an obvious once-over, "I'm sure you can handle a little trouble, Security Guy."
"I can handle all sorts of trouble," Silas assured, guiding the woman to the SUV "... not sure you can handle it yourself at the moment, more's the pity."
Sighing, Red hooked Lizzy's arm, directing her and her awards to their waiting vehicle and into the backseat.
"You think they'll have sex?" Liz whispered conspiratorially the moment Red sat back in the seat.
Chuckling, Red slid the woman closer, "No, but we will." he murmured quietly in her ear so Dembe wouldn't hear.
Liz frowned at the unexpected news. "Well, why ever not?" she was ready to fight and be upset. "Silas likes Samar and Samar likes...eh... what's his name."
"Silas," Red supplied the name, "also likes the women in his bed sober." he reminded.
"We're gonna have sex." Liz stated a fact. "And I'm not sober. Silas is one big snob!"
Sharing an amused glance with Dembe in the mirror, Red sighed for the faux pas, "Sorry, Dembe."
"I am used to it." Dembe replied stoically... though Red heard the amusement in his tone.
"No, Lizzy," Red clarified slowly, "I meant Silas wouldn't take advantage–"
"Oh, you men are all alike!" she decided with a finality that amused Red greatly.
"Maybe..." Red wouldn't argue, knowing full well, it wouldn't go anywhere, "but we're in a committed relationship and–"
"Samar thinks Silas is hot." Liz interrupted, poking Red's shoulder with a well-manicured fingernail. "I don't think she'd mind one bit if Silas put the moves on her."
"Regardless, Silas is a gentleman and–"
"Since when?" Liz seemed genuinely confused.
Red smiled when he heard Dembe's responding laugh as the man merged into interstate traffic.
Knowing he was fighting a losing battle, Red drew Lizzy closer, nuzzling her long neckline. Keeping his tone low, Red redirected her attention for the time being.
"All I'm worried about is our own little celebration," he murmured, "and whether you're up for it."
Dembe chuckled when in the next instant, Elizabeth wrapped herself around Raymond, kissing the man silent.
Upon their arrival home, Red shooed Lizzy off for a shower to wash off the evening... and hopefully sober up a little.
Returning to their room, Red had a light repast and tea on their table, along with a couple pills to stave off any future hangover that may be on the horizon for the woman.
Thankfully, Lizzy appeared more cognizant... though still a bit giggly. But then, why shouldn't she be deliriously happy?
Elizabeth had a wonderful evening surrounded by her family and friends... and was recognized for her hard work.
If anyone had the right to feel exhilarated, it was Lizzy.
"Why the hell am I so hungry?" she was perplexed, snatching a carrot stick in reach.
"You have a very high metabolism." he grinned as the woman all but floated past him.
His eyes twinkled their merriment as Lizzy twirled in a graceful spin before daintily easing to the couch behind her.
"I hope it stays that way or my butt is going to get as big as Silas always claims it is." Liz lamented.
"Tell me about your evening," Red diverted subjects. "Did you have–"
"Did you know," she interrupted, her face falling askew, "Silas and Joe can be gallant... and can dance?!"
"They asked you to dance?" Red smiled.
"..Yes!" their actions still flabbergasted the woman. "Silas danced a lot with Samar, too."
Red was pleased the men had got into the spirit of the evening and did that for Lizzy.
"I also danced with Aram..." she suddenly frowned.
"What's wrong?" he couldn't help but smile for the woman's full on pout.
Swinging her feet to his lap, she wiggled her toes about, "He stepped on my toes... repeatedly."
Taking the little foot in his hand, he caressed the tiny toes, tsking sympathetically. His eyes softened when the woman purred, basking under his attention.
"Thankfully... I guess," she wrinkled her nose, "Wilson cut in."
Red's hand hesitated in their movement until the woman grumbled her discontent.
"You danced with Wilson," he kept his tone neutral, though he felt anything but that.
Sighing blissfully, Liz pushed her other foot into Red's sphere, "Yes, because I'm very polite and a swell dancer."
"That's nice..." Red took a breath, running his hand up Lizzy's calf.
"It was awkward as hell." Liz disagreed.
"Well, you don't know him as well," he tried to soothe her agitation before it began.
"Red, the man flirted and asked me out for drinks," she sighed. "It was– oww..." she opened her eyes, pulling back from the unexpectedly hard pressure.
"Sorry, baby," he gentled his touch on her leg, caressing the silky surface.
He supposed he couldn't fault Wilson taking a chance. After all, Elizabeth was a beautiful, intelligent woman.
Red knew he kicked himself for not taking a chance and making a play for her earlier.
It only made sense, Wilson may have felt the same way were he to not attempt the lofty goal. A goal now out of reach for the young Agent, as he and Lizzy were in a relationship.
"Then what happened?" his eyes narrowed imperceptibly.
"Ressler, cut in," Liz closed her eyes, relaxing into her previous position, "... thank God."
Red didn't know whether to be relived Ressler cockblocked Wilson or suspicious. While not as overt as Wilson, Red knew Ressler held a certain affinity for Lizzy.
Had Ressler heard Wilson's play and stepped in, hoping to get a chance with Lizzy first.
Did it really matter in the grand scheme of things? If push came to shove, he wouldn't have issue telling either man the territory known as Elizabeth Keen... was spoken for.
The crisp crunch of Lizzy biting into her celery brought Red back to the present.
"Ress is an okay dancer," she sipped her tea, "not as good as you though."
"Did Moore–"
Liz choked on a small startled laugh, "And risk having me spit in his face? I think not!"
Red's mouth curved into a wry grin, "So... that's a no?"
"That's big, hell no," Liz scowled, "I doubt he would have anyway, considering he clearly disapproved of Silas and Samar dancing."
"Silas didn't say anything?" Red was admittedly surprised.
"Silas was too busy making eyes at Samar to notice, I think..." Liz giggled merrily.
"I can't fault the man... a beautiful woman in your arms is highly distracting." he reached, pulling the giggling woman closer, situating Lizzy astride his lap.
A rhythmic tap on the door interrupted the conversation.
Red and Lizzy exchanged looks.
"Go away!" Red grated, his idea of a perfect night was just about to start.
Liz gave the man a scolding look, "... Come in," she retracted the man's arbitrary greeting with a gentle rebuke.
Francis opened the door and came in, mindless to the couples position, "Where did you two disappear to tonight?"
Giving the man a sympathetic kiss, Liz slid to Red's side, cuddling to him.
"We went out for dinner," Red reluctantly gestured for the man to take a seat. "A mini celebration to start our vacation."
"Without me!?" Francis was aghast. "You could have at least brought me back a burger," the boy's feelings were hurt, obviously.
"Why did you come in here, Francis?" Red hurried the moment along.
"Oh, I had dinner here earlier." Francis got comfortable in his seat, then glanced up at Red, finding the veins in the man's neck pronounced and throbbing.
"Oh! You meant in here!" Francis got it. "Like I said, just wondered where you went. Thought maybe you guys changed your mind," he shrugged, "and bolted for Mark's already."
Taking a couple minutes to confirm the next day's plans, Francis fell silent, cocking a wry eyebrow.
"Seriously, am I that boring?" he asked, gesturing to Lizzy.
The woman had closed her eyes just for a second to ward off the warm drowsy feeling enveloping her.
"Yes... seriously, you are." she responded impishly.
Red turned his head and smiled at the woman lounging against him. "She took a pill earlier." he soothed the young man's feelings. "Her leg was aching."
"She's a lightweight," Francis gibed. "And stop doing dozing off like that everywhere you lay your head," he chastised the woman, "I was starting to get an inferiority complex."
"Big words coming from a buzzkill..." Liz mumbled.
"Aside from the obnoxious snoring, you were more charming when you were asleep." Francis grumbled.
"I do not snore." she derided.
"Yeah, okay." Francis scoffed. "Then, Red... you really need to check on your air-conditioning system." the man grinned. "The noise level in here verged on ear-splitting. Was like a supersonic jet flew over."
Red suddenly became interested in his cuticles, desperately trying to hold his expression.
"Back me up here, Red." Francis insisted.
The woman sat up, leaning forward menacingly, "I have a good mind to tell Silas you stole his Led Zeppelin CD! "
Francis snorted, "I already made a copy of it and put it back, so he's none the wiser, you little rat fink!"
"I should turn your thieving ass in," Liz grated. "Pirating is illegal, you know."
"Hello...I'm a criminal." he wasn't shy about reminding the woman. "And one of the best, might I add... if only because of my mentor's guidance." he gave Red props where props were due.
Red shrugged rueful shoulders, accepting full culpability in the crime as Lizzy's admonishing attention fell on him.
"I think..." Red changed topics abruptly, "it's time for bed, humm?"
Pushing from his chair, Francis crossed his eyes at the woman who sent him a scathing look.
"I don't see what you see in her, Red," Francis called back, "... it's a wonder hall-monitor Lizzy hasn't turned you in for the reward on your head."
Red patted the woman's hip, soothing her sudden tension.
"Goodnight, Francis." Red grinned at the woman's surly pout.
"Better sleep with one eye open," Francis warned, "or else you could end up in cuffs... and not in a kinky way."
Spinning quickly, Liz snagged a throw pillow, hurling it across the room, nailing the young man directly in the back of the head.
"I wonder if that's where the name, throw pillow, came from?" Francis chuckled, nearing the fallen projectile, tossing the pillow back to Red's waiting hand.
"She's a lumberjack, and she's okay, she snores all night and works all day." Francis sang merrily, sauntering on out the door, a jaunty bounce in his step.
Red sighed mentally at Lizzy's disgruntled, pissed off sigh, returning to his night-cap.
"I should have never introduced that boy to Monty Python." he muttered into his glass. "I can see it all now, where I went wrong."
"You think he knows?" Liz whispered anxiously. "T-That I'm FBI?"
"...No," Red brushed aside Francis' comments. "He was teasing you, Lizzy."
Replaying the conversation in her head, Liz's shoulders eased from their tense perch... blowing out a relieved breath.
"Little bastard." Liz mumbled, having crossed to the bed, throwing her side of the blankets back before climbing into the lush softness. "There are so many things wrong with him."
Red leisurely joined the woman, hesitating briefly, smiling down at her. "You adore him."
"I tolerate him.." she smiled sweetly up at the man, "I adore... you."
"And I, you." Red admitted easily. "This night is ending well."
"Did you hear what I said tonight," she questioned quietly, "at the banquet? Did you understand I was speaking directly to you?"
"I did," Red smiled, tracing the shell of her ear. "I understood all of it."
Leaning, Red went to kiss her temple. Lizzy refused the tactic, instead capturing his mouth against her own.
Blindly reaching, Red flicked the lights, bathing the room in warm darkness.
The darkened space increased the intensity of their affection, heightening their already straining senses.
Laying his chest against the soft cushion of Lizzy's breasts, Red skimmed his hand down the soft fabric of her shirt, locating her silky flesh beneath.
"Are you cold?" he questioned her clothing, as it was rare Lizzy wore anything to bed anymore.
"I was after my shower," she admitted.
"I'll keep you warm now." he murmured, lifting the shirt off overhead.
The woman's long dark locks fell against the plush of the sheets, the fragrant scent of her shampoo tickling his senses.
Liz's breath caught as Red's large hand encompassed her hip, teasingly pulling at the waist of her fleece pants.
Curling his fingers into the waistband, he pulled them over and down her bottom and thighs in the blink of an eye.
Yanking the material free from her legs, he dropped the fluff over the side of the bed to the floor.
"You're really good at that." she purred, opening herself to his affection, settling back against his bulk and heated flesh.
"Getting you naked is my life's ambition." he muttered, his mouth hot on her neckline as he kissed the soft flesh sensually.
Smoothing his hand slowly across the naked expanse of her torso, Red watched the dark outline of his hand caress the soft skin.
Drawing the woman closer, Red glanced down at her plump breasts pushing against the thick mat of hair on his chest.
"I much prefer you like this..." he slid downward, nuzzling the swell of her breast, inhaling her sweet scent. "New perfume?" he savored the delicate fragrance captivating his senses.
"New soap," she sheepishly admitted. "Do you like it?"
Drawing his tongue along her nipple, Red hummed his delight. "I do" he murmured, "but then... you always smell... and taste, damn good."
Kissing and flicking his tongue about her rib cage and waist, he gently turned the woman about, nestling her into the curve of his body.
His cock slid along the curvature of her bottom before settling against the gap in her thighs, the sensation drawing the breath from his lungs.
"Red..." she whispered, something still nagging her psyche.
"Yeah..." he pushed against the pouty seam of her pussy, his voice a husky veil of pent-up restraint.
"Do I snore?" Liz stated bluntly, her mind troubled over the accusation.
Red grinned retroactively, kissing the back of her head. "Nope."
She sighed heavily, slumping. "What do I do?" she asked, knowing she had to do something just by the way he replied.
"You purr." he chuckled.
"Purr?" she didn't know if that was any better... "Like a freaking cat?"
"The first time Francis heard it, he said he wasn't sure if it had been you or Keres." Red grinned, cuddling her closer. "That sound makes me want to offer a soothing massage... or a scratch behind the ears." he playfully flicked the area in question.
Lizzy pushed his hand away, annoyed.
"I guess I should be thankful Francis referenced lumberjacks then." she sighed her lot in life.
Sliding onto his elbow, Red's brow knitted as he looked down at her... waiting.
"Cats..." she stressed. "Pussies..." she clarified with a crinkled nose. "I know how he thinks... unfortunately. I got off light tonight, considering."
Red snorted quietly, his fingers filtering through her long hair. "I see your point."
The woman sighed heavily, then shook her head, rubbing that soft hair against his chest, snuggling in.
"...Well, go on," she grumbled.
Red lips quivered, "Go on... what?"
"You know you're dying to say something obnoxious... you won't be able to sleep if you don't."
"I wasn't planning on sleeping just yet..." Red rubbed himself against the object he most coveted.
"You always have to have the last word..." she glanced back at him, opening her legs to his prodding. "It's like a tradition or something. It's part of our routine."
Red tightened his arm around her waist, "Do we have a routine?"
"Yes, we do." she declared adamantly.
After a minute, she smiled, closing her eyes when he stayed quiet, giving her the last word for once.
Focusing on the matter at hand, Red grunted shakily as he slid the crown of his shaft against Lizzy's rapidly swelling clitoris, having moved on, more pressing matters taking precedence.
Cupping her breast in his warm palm, he stilled the motion, sensing something amiss. There was a tenseness in her body that was not there only a minute ago.
"It's not working... I can't concentrate." she sulked.
Red waited, wise enough to hold his amusement.
"You have to do it." she demanded.
"I'm trying to do it..." he stated emphatically.
"No... you have to have the last word!" Liz reiterated. "It's all wrong otherwise."
She had become accustomed to their tradition.
It was just like the soft purr of her breathing at night. It was a comfort to him.
Lizzy needed her security blanket.
"The only pussy I care about right now," he muttered, sliding the bulbous head of his shaft into the warmth of her heated body, "is yours... now hush, and let me have it."
Ensuring he had the last word, Red clasped his mouth to Lizzy's... each enjoying their shared tradition in their own way.
Author Notes:
We're holding a Lizzington Shipper Video contest!
For those on FF, search Facebook for: Lizzington Fanfic Discussion Page
If you or anyone you know is interested in participating, come check out the details. Members will vote and choose their favorites. Winners are up for some neat prizes! :)