"Players, you have fifteen minutes before the game starts." Mark called out once more.
Liz turned her attention back. "You better go pee." she suggested seriously.
Chuckling, Red nodded. "Always the practical one." the man headed off, his low throaty chuckle floating backwards over his shoulder.
Lizzy was speaking with a couple of her friends upon Red's return near his designated table.
Catching sight of the man in her peripheral, Liz exhaled shakily, enjoying the vision waltzing towards her.
Red looked so handsome in his black three-piece suit, crisp white shirt, gleaming platinum cufflinks and black and white tie with a matching pocket square and his ever present fedora.
He looked the very essence of power personified.
"This is a co-ed ensemble." She remarked as Red came alongside her. "Lots of ladies trying their luck."
Liz was pleased to see each of their friends sat at different tables, increasing their odds of making it to the last round.
"If you get bored," Red said, "and want to go, just take Matthew with you."
Red pointed to the guard sitting off over to the side with Hunter Gaines. Both men scanned the room with trained eyes, chatting quietly as they did so.
"Matthew didn't leave with Michael and Susan?" Liz voiced her surprise.
"They planned to return later tonight," Red shrugged. "I also think they wished for some alone time... before seeing the kids."
"Oh..." Liz smiled her understanding. Red guided her to a nearby seat. "Are you sure you want me here?" she gestured to the short distance between them. "Will I be a distraction?"
"A very welcome, attractive one." He crouched before her, resting his hand on her knee. He leaned, planting a lingering kiss to her cheek. "Wouldn't want it any other way. You're my Lady Luck, remember."
"Good. I can make sure you don't blow that twenty-grand on one roll of the dice." She stroked his cheek lovingly.
"It's poker, Lizzy." He reminded tongue-in-cheek. "Hike your dress a bit." he winked. "Wriggle around if you see my concentration drifting."
"Players, take your seats." Mark interrupted the 'play'.
Leaning, Liz placed her mouth to Red's. "...Good luck."
Standing upright, Red handed the woman his hat, leaning for another quick kiss.
Silas slid into a vacant seat beside the woman. "Focus, dammit." he grumbled.
"I am very focused..." Red nuzzled Lizzy's nose lovingly.
"On the game..." Silas drawled. "Your groupie will be here when you're finished." He rolled his eyes.
"I'm not Red's groupie," Liz mooned adoringly.
"She's my cheerleader." Red corrected, smoothing his hand along the length of Lizzy's soft hair.
"I have the outfit and everything." Liz beamed, fluttering her lashes.
"She has the outfit..." Red's brows lifted, enjoying the visual playing out in his head.
"Of course she does." Silas sighed, crossing his arms over his chest, offering Red a snarky look as the man took his leave.
"You're not playing?" Liz asked her guard, watching Red take his seat.
Silas shrugged. "We've been playing side bets since I arrived." he said. "By now, the edge is off."
Offering a quick nod of recognition to Hunter and Matthew, Silas returned his interest to the cards being dealt.
"Raymond has competition this year." Dembe made himself comfortable, standing braced against the wall.
Silas glanced over the players, offering a halfhearted shrug. "He'll have to watch Simmons there," he gestured, "the guy's been on a roll the last couple days."
Emma, having arrived shortly after Dembe, took a seat behind Lizzy. "What about Danny?" she sat forward, wanting the scoop. "What are his odds?"
"Not as good as they were." Silas muttered, shocking both women. "He's gotta stay on his toes with Scott Collins." he gestured to the man in question.
The women gave Collins the once over.
"Is he that good?" Liz whispered. Red studied his cards, his expression a placid one. The man tossed in several chips, settling back, his manner casual.
"Collins is good... at cheating." Silas replied with a snicker of approval.
"Does Mark know that?" Liz hissed quietly, incensed for the other players... especially Red, should he have to face the guy.
Dembe shifted about. "It keeps everyone alert if they have a cheat or two tossed into the mix... makes for a better game all around."
Liz gave the man a skewed look.
Dembe and Silas gave the ladies, who gathered to watch the men at the tables, a rundown of the players. Liz kept her attention focused on Red. The man remained relaxed and focused... intent.
Liz didn't know how he could remain so calm. She was only a spectator, but her nerves felt like a strained cable ready to snap from the pressure.
More aggravating, she knew she was expressing those emotions to some extent, no matter how hard she tried to mask them. Well... so much for her poker face.
Red, on the other hand, appeared cool as a cucumber. The man sat reclined comfortably in his seat, thumbing the corners of his cards... no expression in sight.
She really hated that about Red sometimes. Not right now, obviously, but in general.
Only occasionally did his eye twitch, alerting her to some involvement... but even then, the actual emotion was difficult to pinpoint.
It was as if the man flipped a switch, which allowed him to mask what he was thinking or feeling. It was impossible to read that man!
Dembe and Silas were better at it than anyone. Mr. Kaplan seemed to have a pretty good grip on the ability. Kaplan was an excellent judge of human character and could assume well enough, in any given case.
Liz realized she was still new to the game. She had picked up on the basic cues Red expressed when agitated, even angry. She most definitely knew when he was aroused. Score one for her.
Right now, however, she couldn't begin to guess what the man was thinking.
Considering she was sharing a bed with the guy, one would think she'd know more than anyone.
Or maybe not? When with her, Red was either happy, intensely focused on protecting her, or they were making love. His expression, in all those instances, expressed his love and regard for her.
Liz was a trained profiler. It bothered her greatly, at first, Red was so adept at shielding himself at times.
Red had shared, in retrospect... concerning the moment when Tom held a gun to her head. Red had forced himself to remain calm... collected. He was truly intent on getting that gun or, at the very least, giving her a diversion to break free. He didn't visualize any other ending to that situation, so it never once entered his mind to react differently.
It may have seemed, he said, that he hadn't cared. He wanted to make certain Elizabeth understood his reactions.
Now she understood. In the world Red lived in, such an ability was a god-send. It protected him. If his enemies couldn't predict his movements or reactions, it was a plus.
She studied the man meticulously.
Even when faced with Anslo Garrick, Red made her believe she was the only person in the room. His reaction to the threat had calmed her own.
Closing her eyes, Liz replayed the incursion over in her head. Visions of Anslo standing behind her as she knelt in Luli's still warm blood, played like a gruesome movie, which flashed past at a slow, grueling pace.
Red truly appeared trapped in a corner, with no way out. Flashes of Red's concern, agitation, rage and panic flickered by like a disturbing flipbook.
Liz knew Red was running scenarios in his mind, working to salvage a way out of an impossible situation.
That they were both alive and breathing, spoke well of Red Reddington's uncanny ability to stay steps ahead of his competition.
She had not known Red's emotional attachment at that time. Had it affected how he reacted to the situation? Would he had done something different?
How had he fared when he faced Edward?
She had only seen the devastation left in the wake of their confrontation and knew without doubt, she never wished to be on the receiving end of Red's wrath.
No one, not even Francis, had given her a blow-by-blow account of the incident.
The carnage Red inflicted left their room in shambles, his hands torn to shreds. Whatever happened had been brutal and violent, leaving Edward Costa dead.
Maybe that's all she needed to know.
Some people would question her involvement with a man that could be so vicious... unpredictable. What if Red would turn on them someday?
They probably would be terrified at the thought of any type of association.
But Liz already knew the answer to that. Red would never hurt her. He would rather die than cause her harm. He had proven himself repeatedly.
Red hurt himself, painfully, when attacking Edward. Yet, he kept going. His pain was secondary to the injury Edward inflicted on her, to Red's way of thinking. Revenging that transgression was paramount. A lesson must be taught. No one touched the thing he cherished most... not without facing severe consequences.
But afterwards, when Red touched her... one would have thought she was the most delicate creature in existence. He had been so gentle and cautious in his handling of her, both physically and emotionally, Liz felt instantly at ease and comforted in his presence.
The man was an enigma. A wondrous one in her book.
Shifting tender, adoring eyes towards Red, she smiled at the man's face... which was still devoid of any expression.
Yes, Red Reddington was an enigma, one she loved very dearly.
Raking a pile of chips his way, Red glanced up towards Lizzy, his mouth tilting up at the corner. His smile halted in place, his brow furrowing.
Red sensed something was off. Liz shook her head, offering a gentle smile.
"I'm fine." She mouthed the words. The man's frown deepened in response, refusing to accept platitudes.
Her smile deepened, reaching her eyes. She rolled those eyes playfully, waving a dismissive hand, gesturing him to get on with the game.
As hoped, Red's shoulders relaxed from their tense perch. He offered her a negligible nod of his head.
His open concern for her welfare warmed Liz.
Wishing for the man to redirect his attention to his form of entertainment, Liz wriggled a bit in her seat. In doing so, she hoped to convey she had been only woolgathering. She dismissed disturbing thoughts about Anslo Garrick or Edward Costa. Liz hiked her dress a bit, biting her lip playfully.
Probably not the best distraction for the man at such a time, but it was better than him being needlessly concerned.
Snorting softly, Red turned back to the game, his eyes telling her all sorts of things forbidden at such a time.
Liz felt herself become aroused watching Red play the game. It wasn't unusual to see the man confident and concentrated, but that he also appeared content was very appealing.
Splitting her attention between Red and their friends, Liz grimaced when Ben threw in his cards, uttering disparaging words as he pushed back from the table. Making his way towards their group, Amy chuckled when the man sat beside her with a heavy sigh.
Silas casually stretched back, grinning at the ousted player. "... Loser." he muttered quietly.
Nudging Silas with her elbow, Liz tittered at Ben's soured expression.
"That bitch Collin's is a cheating punk." Ben grumbled his derision. "I know it and can't prove a damned thing!"
"Maybe," Silas shrugged, "but a decent player would have adapted...loser."
The good-natured teasing continued as they watched the remaining players' pots grow, while others dwindled rapidly.
All were surprised when Daniel was also dismissed, bitching a blue streak the entire trek it took for him to rejoin his contemporaries.
"Little son-of-a-bitch..." Danny spat his ire.
"Collins..." Ben lifted knowing brows. "The bitch cheater, he's way good... I hate him."
Daniel snapped irritably. "I knew he was marking the damn cards, but couldn't 'see' anything he did!"
Liz frowned her confusion. "Why'd you wager so much if..."
"I had a decent hand," Daniel philosophized. "Hope springs eternal," his mouth twisted distastefully, "... or so they say."
"And idiots keep on betting." Silas chuckled his amusement.
Danny sighed evenly. "When the man's right... he's right." He leaned, giving Emma a kiss.
"But the old master drones on." Ben motioned, calling attention to Red's table.
Hurriedly turning in her seat, Liz focused intently on Red and the remaining player facing off, both men stone-faced.
Sitting upright, all interested parties leaned forward, plainly invested in the outcome.
Gesturing to Red's opponent, the dealer indicated he wished to see the man's cards. The man obliged, laying down his spread. Turning his attention, the dealer waited patiently, unlike Liz, who was on pins and needles.
Red lay down... four fours.
Red's opponent glanced about the room, chuckling. "Do you believe this shit?" the guy lifted his three queens.
Grinning broadly, Red shook the man's hand. "Good game."
Unaware she'd been strung tight, Liz was startled to feel a smile light her features and her body uncoil from its rigid state the moment she heard Red's deep throaty chuckle. He walked from the game with a nod. His winnings stacked neatly...left on the table.
"All right ladies and gentlemen," Mark clapped, gaining the spectators' attention. "We're down to our remaining players. We'll take a lunch break and resume the game shortly."
Retreating from the dining hall, Red ushered Liz down a quiet corridor.
"What about your chips?" Liz murmured, the obvious oversight bothering her greatly.
"They'll be gathered and added to the next round." Red calmed her anxiety. "Don't you trust Mark's integrity?"
"Mark has no integrity." Liz suddenly pouted. "Letting cheaters play..."
Red chortled under his breath, enjoying Lizzy's surly mood. "Sweetheart," he placated, "I would like to remind you... we're all criminals here." he cast the woman a side glance. "Present company excluded, of course."
Liz hesitated in her steps, comprehending the words. "Oh... well, yes." she blinked enormous eyes up at the man. "I... I guess you're right, you're all destined for the slammer."
"I assure you," Red assured, "... your money is safe... for the present."
Walking down the hall, Red came to a darkened room. Ushering Lizzy inside, he shut and locked the door behind them.
"I'm not worried about that..." she lied artfully.
"So what was going on earlier?" Red cut to the chase. "When you tried to distract me with a peek at your..."
"Stop that." Liz chastised. "I was just straightening my dress... that's all."
"Nice try." Red knew better. "Something was bothering you." he canted his head, taking in the woman's stiffened posture. "I know you, Lizzy."
Groaning internally, Liz lifted blue eyes. "If I promise I'm not really upset or anything," she said, "could we discuss this later tonight."
Scowling hard, Red's penetrating gaze held hers.
"Listen to me, Red." Liz beseeched. "I do not wish to distract you over something trivial." She stressed the words. "If I thought I couldn't handle it, I would tell you as much."
Holding his tongue, Red stared at the woman, then inclined his head graciously. "All right, but we will discuss this later." He pulled her close, placing his mouth to hers. "How much time did they say we had?"
"I don't know exactly." Liz glanced back at the clock behind them. "Are you still hungry?"
She searched Red's face religiously. "Maybe a shot at the bar?" she enquired helpfully. "Was there something in particular you needed?"
"The only thing I need," Red muttered, lifting Liz to a low desktop, "... is you."
Gasping her shock, Liz hastily placed her hand atop Red's, stopping his attempt to lift her skirt.
"What are you doing?!" Liz stammered,
"Looking for stress relief in the nicest way possible." Red grinned, fingering the sash around Lizzy's waistline.
Slowly releasing the hold on the man's hand, Liz lifted her bottom, allowing Red to push her skirt up her thighs.
"You're not the least bit stressed out." She accused scoldingly, welcoming the journey his hands were taking on her body. "You big faker..."
Parting the delicate lapels of Lizzy's wrap-dress, Red revealed the woman's stunning body to his appreciative gaze.
"I will be if I don't bury my cock within your sweet warmth in the upcoming minutes," Red growled low in his throat. He lowered his mouth to the nectar of her lips, all thoughts fading into oblivion... but one.
Pushing the feminine cut of her dress off the fragrant, slender shoulders, Red kissed the exposed flesh. "I'm buying you more of these frilly things."
"Yeah, you are..." Liz agreed readily.
Grasping the lace trim of her panties, Red pulled them down the woman's legs, simultaneously releasing the catch on his belt.
Extracting his cock, he stroked the throbbing crown along the crease of Lizzy's sex. "All nice and wet for me," he approved silkily. "Am I good to go?"
Liz tilted her hips to take what the man had to offer. "Don't let me stop you, Sailor."
"Seamen..." Red's grunt of exhilaration was muffled by his mouth claiming hers.
Liz blinked her confusion... then got it. "Oh," she smiled languidly, "seaman... not semen."
"I would suggest removing your mind from the gutter," Red slipped along her sultry heat, "... but then, that was my goal, wasn't it."
"Well... you can understand my confusion." She gestured to their present position.
Nudging the blunt curve of his penis between the woman's lips, Red rocked his hips forward, losing himself to the hot hollow.
Stroking an exploratory thumb against the ripened nub of Lizzy's breast, Red hummed quietly as the woman's sheath rippled along his shaft.
"That is..." he gasped shakily, "the most exquisite sensation."
Drawing the woman's mouth into a warm kiss, he suckled her lips greedily. The man pushed the last few inches of his shaft deep within the recesses of Elizabeth's welcoming core, sighing brokenly.
"We don't have much time..." Liz muttered breathlessly, loathe to break the delicious rhythm Red established.
Craning his neck, Red's eyes closed to the sensation of Lizzy's tongue leisurely suckling upon the leathery surface of his neckline.
"Well, let's just make the time..." he insisted, moaning softly, concentrating on the gentle slide of his engorged penis gliding effortlessly between Lizzy's labia.
Curving his fingers into the woman's plump buttocks, Red slid Lizzy closer and closer still, until her pelvis was tightly flush with his own.
He reached, instinct dictating the action.
Thumbing the tender peak of her clitoris, Red groaned in response to Lizzy's raw cry of passion.
"That feels good, doesn't it, sweetheart." he crooned softly, reveling in Lizzy's response.
"So very... very good." she panted a reply, moving closer to his touch, squirming about feverishly.
Clawing at the man's back, Liz edged closer still, desperate for more of Red's touch.
"You are just what I needed..." Red murmured lovingly. Cupping the woman's breast, he rolled the stiff peak, sharpening the already aching nub. He enjoyed the feel of the ripe warm melon fill his palm.
A distinct, unhurried rap of knuckles against the closed door snapped the man's attention away from his pleasurable pastime.
Red mentally cursed the interruption.
Hurriedly placing his hand over Lizzy's mouth, Red muffled the woman's cries of enjoyment.
"I do not mean to interrupt," Dembe's rather lackadaisical voice filtered through the door.
"The man is a fucking bloodhound..." Red hissed his disbelief. He cleared his throat, fortifying himself. "Yeah... what is it?"
Dembe continued on, mindless to the strain in Raymond's tone. "You said to give you notice..."
"Must he take everything so fucking literal?" Red whispered his consternation. Continuing the established rhythm, Red steadily rocked his hips... too close to the pinnacle to do otherwise.
Stifling a groan which threatened to escape, Red dragged his erection along the swollen ridge of Lizzy's clit. He hurriedly adjusted the hand over Lizzy's mouth when the woman moaned... loudly.
Opening her mouth, Liz gingerly flicked her tongue along the seam of Red's fingers. She slowly drew the appendage into her mouth, the warm hollow engulfing the makeshift play-toy lovingly.
"...Really..." Red watched the action, his blood heating in his veins. He breathed amorously when the woman's tongue wrapped about the digit, sensually rubbing the length.
Dembe sighed heavily, sensing what was transpiring behind that closed door. "The game will resume in fifteen minutes."
Steadily holding Red's heated gaze, Liz undulated her tongue, moving the slippery muscle up and down Red's finger.
"Stop that," he scolded pseudo-sternly. "...behave."
It turned Red on to no end when the woman's smoldering eyes transmitted the silent message... she would rather be suckling something far more... substantial.
Nothing was more arousing than knowing a woman wanted to make love with you. Knowing Lizzy also had a deep desire to wrap her pouty lips around his cock was titillating to the extreme... Red could almost feel the heat of that sensual little orifice now.
He felt a well of liquid leak freely from his crown in response to the imagery, further slicking the alcove he so loved to fuck.
"Thank you, Dembe." Red bit out a reply, waiting tensely. Thankfully, the muffled footsteps receded down the carpeted hallway.
Removing his finger from the stimulating suction, Red hastily captured the woman's wet lips with his own. The tip of his tongue teasingly battled with hers for supremacy.
The delicious pull of Lizzy's core fluttered rapidly around him, tugging and clenching his erection, massaging the blunt curve of his crown, both distracted and enticed.
Kicking her heels off, Liz leaned back on the desktop, closing her eyes to better feel the sensation of the stiff, bulbous head inside her. Sliding her bottom forward, she rocked urgently towards Red, sensing her release nearing.
The woman's already impossibly tight sheath gripped the man's girth in a strangling hold, fluttering crazily with each thrust of Red's hips.
"...You're gonna make me come." Red whispered the warning. Increasing the pressure of his thumb on the tiny pulsating clit, he encouraged her to join him. "Aren't you..." he breathed raggedly. "Is that what you want? You want my come?"
Hearing Red's rough and desperate voice, Liz's already overly-primed senses buckled, releasing her to the euphoric bliss she sought to attain. Her core quivered and trembled, clasping Red's girth hard.
"Yes..." she rasped hoarsely, "... yes, I want it."
"Then take it..." the man closed his eyes, his voice breaking slightly, "it's yours, baby."
Just a few short strokes later, an unexpected cry of jubilation rushed past her lips in breathless gasps when she felt the hot gush of Red's ejaculate flood her center.
Unable to control the surge, Red's hips thrust erratically, then stilled, his crown flush against Lizzy's womb. Cursing softly, he curved his hands about the woman's buttocks, holding her in place. He took the time to... savor.
Lizzy's soft whimper melded with the deep, guttural sound stirring in his chest, increasing the already pronounced flex of his cock.
A jagged, gratified breath caught in his throat when the enlarged curve of his cockhead inched forward, slipping easily through the thick currents of fluid pouring from his slit.
Red held the woman close, his arms embracing her small body lovingly. He methodically emptied himself of his thick, liquid silk.
The man opened serene eyes, slowly regaining his senses. "Well, I feel better... you?" he breathed the release of every ounce of tension he possessed.
"I thought I felt okay beforehand..." Liz whispered, welcoming the lethargic aura enveloping her, "... who knew, right?" she joined in the moment, stretching luxuriously, kinking her body sensually.
Easing free from her warm nook, Red groaned his disappointment. The man hastily procured a handkerchief to stop the torrent left in his wake.
"There's a restroom through there." He murmured, stepping back out of her way.
Gingerly sliding from her perch, Liz hurried for the bathroom. "There's too much to stem the flow." the woman grimaced at her state. "Which is entirely your fault... not mine." she lifted a pert nose..
Red grinned. "I'll take the fall." He quipped. "But is it my fault your little pussy is so hot? A guy can't help himself."
"Is that you, taking the fall?" Liz threw the man a disparaging glance.
"I don't know about you," Red ignored the gibe, his mood too high for anything less, "but I say, fuck the game." his eyes twinkled mischievously. "Let's just go to our room and spend some quality time... relaxing in bed."
"Is that what we're calling it these days?" The woman's look said it all. "Relaxing?"
"That's how I relax." Red stated innocently.
Liz shut the door slowly, but surely, trying very hard to hide her smile. "You straighten the mess you made." her muffled voice directed.
"Yes, dear." Red obeyed, tidying himself up... then the desk, as he awaited the woman's return.
Liz emerged minutes later, looking none the worse for wear.
"Look at you, all put together." The man's gaze swept the slender form seductively. "No one would suspect what a naughty little girl you've been."
"Dembe will." Liz sighed, resigned. "I'll just put the blame on you." she shrugged blithely.
"...Again." Red reminded, tongue-in-cheek.
Liz allowed the man to guide her from the room, the feel of his warm palm on the small of her back thrilling her to no end.
She tried hard not to show it. "You just better not lose our money."
"Yes, darling." Red offered the dutiful response, a smile tugging at his lips.
"I'm serious, Red." she scolded his mood.
"I know you are." he agreed evenly. "Just as I suggested earlier." he muttered.
"What?" Liz frowned, for she had not heard what he said.
"Nothing, sweetheart." Red smiled sweetly, guiding her through the doors.
Watching Red take his seat, Liz zeroed in on the dealer perform a count of chips for each player, her keen eyes watching the man's every move.
Red sought her out, the slow, perusing sweep he offered her body, branding her. Liz fought the flush on her cheeks.
"So," she cleared her throat, "these are the best players?" she asked, only seeing a couple people approach the set up. She had found a seat by Silas, having studiously avoided Dembe just yet.
"That asshole sauntering in?" Silas pointed out the man in question.
"The cheater!?" Liz gasped her shock before she could catch herself. A couple of people in her vicinity took note, glancing her way. "How did he advance!" she whispered her ire, leaning closer to her guard.
"What's going on?" Daniel asked, sensing a slight agitation in the group. "Oh.. Collins?" the man's mood dampened. "Wow, color me shocked. He ever did he make it to the last rounds?"
Daniel's mouth twisted distastefully. "I'm gonna kick the shit out of him after the game."
"All's fair in love and Texas Hold 'Em." Dembe knew the boy's modus operandi well enough.
"I thought they were playing five-card draw?" Liz frowned her confusion.
"Still," Danny fumed, "gonna kick the shit out of him."
"I think they should disqualify him." Liz reiterated.
"Live and let live." Silas dismissed. "The kid will learn one day." he offered a woeful shake of his head. "The Italians took a very dim view of his activities last season."
"But that didn't stop him?" Liz frowned her concern. "Can he be beat?"
"Anyone can be bested." Silas stated confidently, shifting an amused look Daniel's way. "Red will look for the kid's tells... and other amusing things."
"Oh! They're starting!" Liz murmured, breaking the conversation. "How exciting." She squealed.
"Curb your enthusiasm, woman." Silas scowled at her. "Our group has an image to uphold."
Liz offered a teasing smile Red's way. "... I'll try to hold it down."
"Do!" Silas threw another look.
Red stood upright, removing his jacket, hanging it over the back of his chair.
Liz's gaze drifted down from the broad expanse of Red's back to the rounded curve of the man's ass, sighing her bliss. "That man has the best ass... ever."
"You haven't seen mine." Silas quirked a brow for the rather off-hand remark.
"We've all seen yours." Dembe differed.
Liz chuckled.
Silas ignored the gibe for one, his attention for the woman. "... Really?"
"What?" Liz asked innocently.
Silas let it go, returning to the action with subdued irritation.
"What are we discussing?" Francis arrived on scene, arms full of vending machine goodies. He passed the articles out dutifully.
"Reddington's ass," Daniel made remark, "... how cute it is." he stifled his amusement, shrugging. "I don't see it, personally. Now, Dembe's..." he pulled an impressed face.
Dembe's brow scowled experimentally, sending the man a semi-warning.
Danny cackled his glee, ripping into a Snickers bar with gusto.
"I guess Red is all right?" Francis stated analytically, taking a seat just behind Lizzy. He held out some M&M's for her to take... which she did.
"Hunter Gaines has the best ass around." Ben stated factually. "I know this because I heard him say as much."
"You men worry me." Liz observed them... worriedly.
"Red's too macho to be cute." Francis snorted. "He's more of the, slap em down, drag 'em by the hair, category."
"He's not like that at all!" Liz defended staunchly. "You take that back!"
"Darlin', I saw Red mow down eight men to get Mark's ass out of a sling once and not bat an eyelash when the smoke cleared." Danny grimaced, thinking he may have said too much. "Was I supposed to keep that secret?"
"What's that got to do with how Red treats women?" Liz demanded. "He may be armed and dangerous at times... which one of you isn't? But basically, he is a good, decent man. Especially where women are concerned."
"She's practicing should she need to be a character witness at trial." Silas muttered, grinning at his own wit.
"You tell 'em, Lizzy." Francis patted with woman's shoulder with a placating hand. "Red is nothing but a teddy bear that protects his clan... and woman."
"That's right." Liz jerked a stubborn chin.
The argument... debate, was halted by the flustered arrival of Emma who sat with a plop, pushing her hair from her face. "Did I miss anything?" she exhaled a panted breath.
"How do you feel about Reddington's ass?" Danny teased Liz more than Emma.
"Oh, he's just a cuddly teddy bear!" Emma enthused as Francis nodded knowledgeably.
"I said that first." Francis reminded everyone present.
"Why?" Emma checked with a dour Lizzy, ignoring Francis altogether. "Was I not supposed to notice, sugar?"
Liz sighed. "It's okay, Emmie."
"No," Daniel Courtland flatly reminded, "you were not supposed to notice, woman! You're with me!"
"Even so... I'm still alive and vital," Emma dismissed, "... not dead. As if you don't check out women's derrieres."
"Well, I don't." Daniel staunchly denied. "I'm too busy looking at your sweet ass!"
"Oh..." Emma beamed, "well, thank you, baby."
"Could we drop the subject if you please." Silas advised. "And shut the hell up!" he motioned with a lackadaisical hand. "The players need to concentrate on something rather than Reddington's ass."
Liz settled, leaning after a beat to whisper to an overly excited Emma Evans. "I thought you were gonna shop with the girls?"
"One of our own is playing," Emma gestured to Red, talking with Mark. "I'm here in a show of support."
Liz turned her attention back to the game.
Silas chuckled lowly. Liz caught the action. "What?" she had missed something, clearly.
"That box there?" Silas gestured to the object being placed alongside the table.
Liz craned her neck to see his meaning.
"It's full of new decks of cards." Silas explained. "Every few games, someone can request a new deck be opened."
"Oh," Understanding dawned, "so Collins can't cheat. Why didn't anyone else ask for new decks before?"
"Because they aren't as deviously diabolical as your boyfriend, who has a calculating and nefarious mind."
"...Oh." Liz nodded her understanding as the players took their seats. "I don't know these people." she realized. "Except the cheater guy."
"This should be interesting." Dembe leaned, whispering an observation.
Liz enjoyed the scent of the man's musky cologne.
Silas nodded his agreement. "That guy with the purple tie," he gestured discretely, "... Harper, he hates Red."
Liz lifted surprised brows. "What? Why?" she studied the other man, incensed for Red.
"No one is quite certain," Dembe admitted, "but whenever Raymond and Harper are in the same room... tension runs high."
"Will Red's concentration..." she voiced her concern, "be affected?"
"Harper does not bother Raymond." Dembe dismissed. "Never has."
Glancing between the two men, Liz could suddenly feel the tension... not so much from Red, but his opponent. Harper stared daggers at Red from across the table, his shoulders high and tight.
Holding the man's penetrating gaze, Red remained unblinking and unmoved. The moment progressed. Liz held her breath... until Harper looked away first. Suddenly elated, she tried to calm her frayed nerves.
Ducking her chin, Liz held the reactionary smile which graced her lips when Red offered a slow grin for his opponent's perceived loss.
Cocky ass... she sighed affectionately. "He's so sweet." She stated sotto voce.
"Sorta like a cobra before he strikes." Silas nodded agreeably. "Real sweet, that guy."
The next hour proved more interesting than Liz originally believed it would be. She enjoyed observing Red participate in something he found entertaining.
Though the man was extremely focused on his opponents, quietly studying each man or woman, he appeared very relaxed... engaging in amusing banter from time to time if the occasion called.
Liz began studying the players herself, unaware of her pastime.
Red and the remaining players genuinely appeared to respect one another. Each individual seemed engaged and amused... having a fabulous time playing the game.
The Harper guy was cool, aloof and concentrated; never smiling of engaging with the other players.
Collins was very uptight, nervous and tense, as if sitting on a tack. He mouthed off constantly, attempting a display of over-confident bravado.
If the young man eventually won a round, which was rare... he offered those at the table a smug grin.
Liz was pleased to note, however, that smile faltered each time the dealer revealed a new set of cards.
It was around that time, though Collins had done nothing obvious or overt to alert her, Liz sensed Red's patience wane.
Red bet big and often against the younger player. It was clear Red's intention was to eliminate Collins from the game. Collins struggled in earnest to retain his position. He went so far as to toss in his Rolex to match Red's raise a few seconds ago.
Liz scooted to the edge of her seat, her fingers gripping the chair in front of her.
"You're bluffing, Reddington." The man's face was tight. "You got nothing, I watched the deck."
Red sat sprawled leisurely in his chair. "We've all been watching the deck."
Collins' face paled. "You're pulling to an inside straight... not gonna happen."
"And what happens if I raise the pot?" Red motioned. "Your chips are depleted." He pointed to the empty tray on the table beside his opponent.
"I-I'll put up my car." Collins swallowed... hard.
"I don't want your damned car." Red disdained. "Lay down your fucking cards."
Collins did so with a flourish. "Three queens... two threes." he elated, his face lit with pleasure. "Beat it!"
Red lay down... four eights. His own expression benign.
The table was silent.
Collins arose, agitated, flustered... angry. "You cheated!"
Liz's mouth fell agape.
Red's genuinely amused chuckle broke the rising tension. "I... cheated?" he seemed inordinately amused.
The other players joined in the glee of the moment.
"Get the fuck out of here, Collins." A particularly unpleasant looking gentleman suggested drily, his expression one of disdainful resentment, "before I have my boys escort you out personally. Take your choice." The large man leaned back casually, holding the younger player's eyes easily. "You can go in one piece or a whole lot of itty bitty, easy to hide from the cops, pieces. Your call."
Collins' pallor paled even more so. He took his leave hastily.
The game resumed.
Silas' chuckle broke the tension Liz was feeling. She smiled wanly over at the guard. "That was... interesting."
Silas shrugged massive shoulders. "Mildly amusing." he conceded.
"Do you think Red cheated?" She whispered after a long hesitation.
Silas turned his head slowly, his face devoid of any expression... though Liz could swear she detected a certain twinkle in the guard's eyes before he returned his attention forward.
Settling back in her seat, Liz flexed her fingers experimentally. She released a breath, calming her system.
Liz was curious to note, whether winning or losing, Red genuinely appeared to be having a wonderful time.
Even Harper's sour disposition didn't seem to hamper Red's mood in the slightest, much to his opponent's vexation.
Liz frowned curiously when Red unenthusiastically tossed in a counter bet in reply to Harper's raised bet, a bored expression on his face. She wondered what annoyed him so that he allowed any sort of reaction.
It was her understanding when one had a good hand, a player increased their bets. That's how it was in the movies, at least. Sam had tried to teach her poker at a young age, but Liz was more interested in the newest Cabbage Patch doll.
Red lost his chips the last round, which didn't seem to phase the guy. Liz, on the other hand, bit her thumb nail anxiously.
Harper had folded his hand in the next round, which seemed to amuse Red somewhat.
She didn't know what game Red was playing exactly, besides the obvious, but it appeared he was pleased with the results... and himself.
The dealer called a break, and all players pushed from their designated seat.
Red sauntered over, leaning his hand against her chair. "You doing okay?" he enquired. "You need anything?"
"Do you need anything?" Liz asked, mindless to the other guests heading for needed refreshment.
Francis had nearly mowed her down in his haste to be the first out the door.
"Did you see, Francis?" The woman's mouth tightened. "The little asshole almost knocked me over in his bid for freedom!"
Red leaned, kissing her mood away. "Should I have him whacked?"
"Whacked?" Liz held her grin. "No, but you can have him fitted for some cement overshoes."
Red chuckled. "That's concrete galoshes, baby."
"Whatever..." Liz conceded victory. "Just as long as he's sleeping with the fishes at the end of the day."
"We could go on like this for hours if one of us doesn't give." Red made mention. "I'll stop if you will."
"I don't know..." the woman was reluctant to stop the fun game. "I'm kind of liking this trip back to the roaring twenties."
"You getting bored." he queried solicitously.
"No, but my ass is falling asleep." Silas grumbled, opening his eyes, struggling to a sitting position.
"I wasn't speaking to you." Red cast the guy a look. "Are we disturbing you?"
"He's on vacation, Red." Liz's brow furrowed.
"So am I." Red pointed out. "You don't see me sleeping my life away."
"I said, my ass was asleep." Silas reiterated. "You're getting confused in your old age."
Red drew in an even breath. "What size shoe do you wear?"
"Concrete galoshes?" Silas enquired pleasantly.
Red let it go. "I have to piss." The subject was changed. "I hear the plaintive call of the nearest urinal."
"Me too!" Liz sprang up, grabbing her purse. "Well... not the urinal." She crinkled her nose adorably. "But yeah... I need to pee."
"You might meet up with Collins." Silas philosophized. "Last I heard, he was drowning his cheating little soul in holy toilet water."
Red gave the guy a skewed look. "Excuse me?"
"Just a heads up, he'll probably hit you up for cab fare home, or wherever he spawned from." Silas shrugged. "Have your checkbook handy."
"Why would Red do that!" Liz scowled. "Collins is a cheater! He brought bad fortune on himself." She nodded sagely. "That man would really have nerve to ask for a handout after his behavior!"
"Red has a soft spot for charity cases..." Silas lifted playful eyes towards Liz.
Liz whipped her head about, sensing the man's implication. Red's lips pursed, desperately hiding his amusement.
Huffing under her breath, Liz turned back to Red. "You aren't going to help him, are you, Red?"
Red's brows crinkled momentarily. "Are you talking about.." He pointed at Silas questioningly.
"There is no help for that dolt!" Liz huffed once again, glaring at her guard. "I meant... Collins!"
"I haven't decided." the man evaded. "I've been down on my luck a time or two... not a good place to be."
"Did you cheat in life to get there?" Liz was genuinely curious, knowing some of Red's early tribulations.
"In one way or another." Red realized. "There is always a reason a man does what he does, Lizzy. Maybe we shouldn't judge too harshly until that reason is made clear."
"Be that as it may, I doubt you gloated and made an ass of yourself like Collins." Liz shook her head. "Sometimes I just want to kick you in the butt... there is such a thing as being too nice, Red."
"Is there, baby?" Red placated. "Come on, everyone is starting to drift back in. The game will resume shortly."
"Don't fall in." Silas called back over his shoulder. "You don't have a faithful guard to pull you out."
"That's my seat." Liz warned her guard with a frosty squint of her blue eyes. "I don't want to come back to find some floozy has taken residence."
Red groaned internally when Silas grinned wickedly, arching a wry brow. "What's the difference? Your warm bottom or theirs?"
"Never you mind about my bottom!" Liz bickered.
"Silas..." Red sighed, giving the man a cross look. Hooking Lizzy's elbow, Red steered the narrow-eyed woman away from the bad influence.
"She brought her bottom up, not me." Silas chuckled, crossing his arms over his chest. "People are just too damned sensitive here in the great state of Texas."
Once they were out the doors, Liz looked up at her companion. "What's the problem with you and that guy?"
"I'm gonna punch Silas right in the kisser one of these days..." Red vowed.
"I'm not talking about that idiot." Liz whispered. "Why doesn't that Harper guy like you? Or better still," she corrected, "why does he hate you so much?"
"There's always been some underlying hostility." Red shook his head musingly. "But he's taken it up a notch this year admittedly."
"But... why?" Liz lowered her voice, looking cautiously over her shoulder. "A business deal gone bad?"
"Don't worry, Lizzy. Harper doesn't bother me." Red waved aside any concern. "It's just annoying that the man can't relax, even over a friendly poker game."
Moving out of the way of a woman departing the ladies room, Red stepped aside, offering a vacant smile for the lady. "I'll meet you back out here?" He asked.
"Isn't this fun, we can talk about peeing with each other now." Liz wrinkled her nose adorably.
"The joys of blossoming relationships." Red quipped.
Liz exited from the restroom into the now empty hallway. Glancing down the corridor, she saw her friends milling about... but no sign of Red.
Leaning back into the wall behind her, Liz closed her eyes, soaking up the quiet until the door beside her flung open with an unexpected swiftness which startled the woman.
Liz scowled when she came face-to-face with the dark countenance of that Harper guy.
"...You always hang outside the men's room?" Harper questioned, his tone on the frosty side.
"A girl has to have a hobby." Liz's scowl deepened, her voice tinged with a definite chill. "What's it to you?"
Harper looked her over from head to toe, his expression a sternly neutral one. "You're Reddington's latest." the brown eyes issued a challenge. "You look more expensive than the others."
The insult hung in the air. Liz swallowed her need to lash out.
"You must be confusing me with the women with whom you associate." Liz replied in kind.
Glancing down at the rock on her finger, Harper scoffed derisively. "My god... he's making it legal?" he appeared shocked. "Why?"
Liz grinned maliciously, then shrugged. "What can I say?" her eyes lit with an inner fire of battle. "I'm a great fuck, and Red knows quality when he sees it... unlike you."
Harper straightened his cuffs, giving Liz the once over again. "After I win, look me up." the man leaned slightly into the woman's sphere. Liz held her ground. "Maybe I might take you in... then you'll see what a great fuck I am."
Liz's darkened eyes trailed after the man as he took his leave.
"When hell freezes over, asshole." Liz called out. "I wouldn't piss on you if you were on fire."
Red emerged from the restroom, a quizzical look on his face. Scowling for Elizabeth's scornful words, the man turned his attention to the fuming female.
"Lizzy." He, too, followed Harper's retreat, "what did that bastard–"
Shaking her head, Liz muttered under her breath. "... Nothing." Then more cheerfully. "It's nothing! Really, I'm good!"
Directing the woman's gaze to his concerned one, Red stepped into Lizzy's sphere. "What the hell did he say."
Liz could feel the tension in his body.
"I don't want you getting riled up over nothing." Liz waved aside the issue. "I'll tell you later, okay. I can handle pricks like him, Red."
"You'll tell me now," Red warned, "or I'll go in there and beat it out of him myself."
Sighing, Liz rolled her eyes heavenward, hastily repeating the highlights of the conversation, carefully wording the issues just so. "He's just trying to get a rise out of you. You're too smart for that and you know it!"
"I know what he's doing." Red checked his watch. "We have to get back." He took her hand, pulling her along. "We'll continue this... later."
"What are you going to do?" Liz warned more than asked.
"Beat the hell out of him." Came the abrupt, curt reply.
Liz hesitated in her step, unsure how to take the pronouncement, and realized... she didn't much care.
"Figuratively speaking?" She tried to keep up with his steps. "Right?"
Silas sat upright as Liz and Red neared, sensing something amiss. "Well, shit." the man sighed heavily, reluctantly accepting his lot in life.
Cautiously watching his friend steer Liz towards her seat, Silas glanced towards Dembe, both men sharing a knowing look. Both sighed again, preparing for the inevitable showdown that was to come.
"It'll be over soon." Red promised, helping Lizzy take her seat.
"O-Okay..." Liz's meekly acquiesced. The touch of venom in Red's tone shocked her. He strode away without a backward glance.
"Do not concern yourself, Elizabeth." Dembe whispered to her.
"What did you do?" Silas cast accusing eyes her way.
"Oh..." Liz sighed fitfully, "it's that jerk, Harper." she fidgeted restlessly in her seat. "I was standing outside the men's room.."
"As you are wont to do." Silas muttered aside, motioning her to get on with it.
"And that prick, Harper, had the audacity to malign my character!"
"He didn't!" Silas was dutifully appalled.
"He did too!" Liz was positive.
"What's that mean exactly?" Francis had stood by patiently watching the drama unfold, eating popcorn from an oversized plastic bag. "What did that fucker say?"
"It means, the questionable gentleman called the questionable lady a slut." Silas simplified.
Liz's mouth dropped, a small gasp escaping her lips. "Well, you didn't have to put it like that!" She went on with the narrative. "So here comes Red butting into my affairs, and why? Did I not handle the issue?"
Silas was pensive on the matter.
"I think I did." She answered the rhetorical question with assured confidence.
Francis nodded thoughtfully. "Well, good for you."
"Now, Red is going to lose my money over this," she fidgeted restlessly in her seat, "isn't he!"
"Your money?" Silas questioned playfully.
Liz sat her bag aside, ignoring her guard. "Let's just watch the game."
"Okay.." Francis shrugged, munching on his snack.
There was a certain tension in the room suddenly. Everyone could feel its palpable presence. Even the players at the table sensed something amiss. Each realizing the problem... and the source.
Red remained on an even keel with the other players, gamely winning or losing as the game progressed.
Harper's strategy had changed. The man systematically targeted individual players with blunt efficiency until his only true competition remained.
Red nonchalantly rolled the ashes from his cigar at intervals, his gaze completely neutral.
Tossing a sizable ante into the pot, Red casually blew his cigar smoke up and away. Ignoring Harper's steely glare, he sipped the warmed scotch beside him, kicking his legs out comfortably under the table.
Twisting her hands anxiously, Liz grimaced as Red's bets grew in amount with each passing moment until he had only a small pile of chips remaining of the massive stack he had accumulated.
Liz didn't know how the man could be so calm. If she was on the brink of losing twenty grand, she'd be in hysterics. To lose against a bastard like Harper... it was unconscionable.
Red, on the other hand, simply didn't seem to give a fuck.
"Red's doing it on purpose." Danny leaned forward, offering his take on the byplay. "He has to have an angle I'm not seeing."
"Yeah, it's called flittering away all my retirement fund." Liz was pretty sure that was the gambit going down.
"Red's been losing an awful lot." Daniel needlessly pointed out how the game had unfolded to this point. "That's not like him."
"Twenty-thousand dollars..." Liz bemoaned her loss. "Twenty-thousand!"
"Oh, that was just the buy-in." Silas helpfully reminded. "He's lost so much more than that."
"What!?" Liz's voice shattered the quiet stillness of the room.
Silas waited patiently as the woman attempted to collect herself.
Liz flushed as Red's eyes met hers, the man's expression softening considerably for her predicament.
Clearing her throat softly, Liz strived for decorum, offering her guard a caustic look.
Francis picked up on the attempt of defense for his friend. "Maybe Red's lulling Harper into a false sense of security."
"He's up to something," Silas muttered his agreement, "... or he better fucking be." A thought occurred. "God... you do start to think of it as your own money."
"Red better make a move, he's down to forty dollars in chips." Daniel stated. "I bet this next deal will be the turning point."
"Willing to wager a bet on that?" Silas grinned, turning in his seat, reaching for his wallet.
Daniel sat back a little, thinking matters through, then nodded. "Yeah... yeah, I'll take that bet."
"What's the bet?" Francis put his popcorn aside.
Dembe gathered around...
Turning her attention to the game and away from the money trading hands, Liz sought out Red.
Harper glanced her way, offering her a salacious wink. The man methodically stacked and re-stacked a single pile of chips.
Swallowing her disgust, Liz casually lifted her hand, raising her finger in a most unladylike fashion... she blew the man a kiss, a benevolent smile gracing her lovely face. .
Adjusting in his seat, Silas chortled quietly for the woman's brazen display. "You little tart, you." he clearly approved the action.
Liz chanced a glance at Red, sure her rather unladylike display would upset him. To her surprise, a mischievous smile played about the man's stoic expression.
Ducking his chin, Red looked intently at his cards... attempting to hide his break in concentration.
To her amazement, the Harper guy seemed to find reluctant amusement in the gesture as well.
The constant scowl softened momentarily, a wry brow raised. The man drew in a resigned breath before returning to the cards he'd been dealt.
"What the hell is he so complacent about?" Liz sneered her contempt.
Glancing over Red's pile, Harper grinned slowly then shoved all of his chips forward.
Red studied the bold maneuver, none the worse for wear.
"You appear short of the needed amount." Harper made mention. "You could always wager your girl over there." His smile widened.
Spectators' mouths dropped open for the insult. All hurriedly finished their drinks, hastily tucking the glasses safely under their seats. Surely blows were about to be exchanged!
"She is worth the pot... right?" Harper stared stonily at his opponent.
"Uh oh," Silas clicked his tongue, his own brows lifting. He put a restraining hand on his charge as Liz almost rose right out of her seat.
"I'm worth way more than he thinks! I-I'm priceless!" Liz whispered her wrath. "Red says so! He-He said I was high-class!" she lifted a noble chin.
"I believe he said," Silas begged to differ, "you were high-maintenance, but whatever."
"You just better do something here!" Liz demanded her rights. "Go hit that bastard or something worse!"
"I am going to do something." Silas assured.
Leaning forward, Silas caught Dembe's notice. "I wager we dump the body in Lake Texoma, you?"
Liz's mouth tightened. "Asshole."
"Raymond has all well in hand." Dembe remarked, his tone calm and collected.
Rolling his eyes, Silas sat back in his seat, sighing. "He's just saying that," he patted Liz's hand consolingly, "because he knows there are closer lakes nearby."
"Raymond has instructed you to not provoke Elizabeth." Dembe reminded.
"Not today, he hasn't." Silas objected.
"Shut up," Liz hissed, "both of you." she glanced apologetically at Dembe. "Well... not you."
Ignoring the whispering to his right, Red sat his cigar aside. "I'm saving her for something more substantial." He said, pulling out his wallet, extracting the needed money. "Not some penny-ante shit like this." he waved a hand over the table. "She's worth at least another Lear Jet... besides she likes the excitement of the moment."
Taking the momentary silence between the players to his advantage, the dealer asked the men to show their cards.
Holding Red's gaze, Harper turned his hand over, holding Red's eyes easily.
"Four of a kind." The dealer studied the cards dutifully.
Red sat staring at the man's hand.
Harper leaned forward, wrapping his arm around the bounty...
"Don't get antsy." Red lifted a stilling hand, leisurely showing his own cards.
"...Straight flush" The dealer stated, his tone blasé.
The crowd reacted accordingly. Excited murmurs and appreciative applause greeted the moment.
Harper sat back, no expression allowed.
Pulling the pile his way, Red chewed thoughtfully on his cigar.
Harper continued to stare straight forward, nothing more.
Red hesitated, eventually sitting back himself. He removed the cigar. "Are we done?"
Harper sighed lightly. "Yes, Reddington... we're done." he lifted hostile eyes. "As usual, you won. You always win... don't you."
"And a little more graciously, I might mention," Red mentioned, "than you."
Those assembled waited... for what? Was anyone's guess.
Harper scoffed derisively. "Yeah." the guy shook his head, pushing from the table. He left without a word or backward glance.
Red watched his retreat, his brow furrowed. At length, he motioned, offering over a generous tip to the dealer.
"Good game." he arose, kinking his back.
Lifting a small pencil off the table, Red held it aloft before snapping it in two with his fingers...his mood transmitted through the act. He hadn't meant to allow his frustration and annoyance.
He made his way to his friends... to Lizzy. "There's something eating at that guy."
"Yeah," Silas agreed, "besides the fact he just lost a small fortune."
"The money meant nothing." Dembe stated.
"I got that impression too." Red idly rubbed Lizzy's back.
"It meant a hell of a lot to your girlfriend though." Silas had to say it or die.
"Oh, I didn't care... not really." Liz was one big smile... now. "As long as Red enjoyed himself."
"Uh huh." Red grinned.
"And Daniel here was betting against you the entire time." Silas lied easily. "How's that for loyalty."
"You want me dead, don't you." Danny had figured it out.
"Yeah, well... you know." Silas shrugged his shoulders. "That little redhead's got to know, she's got options." he winked suggestively at Emma... who giggled happily.
"I'm right here, man." Daniel reminded.
"Yeah, well... you know." Silas shrugged once more.
"Elizabeth, you can let go of my hand, the game has ended." Dembe shook some blood back into the appendage, holding his smile.
"Oh!" Liz blinked, having hastily released her death grip.
Red pushed his thumbs along his temples. "Are you sure you were okay with the way I handled the play of cards?"
"Oh, sure." Liz smiled prettily. "What do I know about Texas Hold 'Em. I trust you implicitly."
"They were playing five-card draw." Francis disdained. "Yeesh, you are an embarrassment!"
Liz felt the admonishment. "I meant five-card... whatever." She looked to her guard. "I said that earlier, didn't I." she wanted confirmation.
Red grinned, then aside. "Silas, have a word with my opponent. See what's shaking with the prick. It's time we settled whatever damned issues we have."
"You mean... have a word." Silas needed clarification. "Or... have a word then dump the body in Lake Texoma?"
"There are closer lakes." Dembe stated, straight-faced.
"Talk to the guy, but make sure," Red emphasized, "he listens."
Eric Harper stared at his reflection in the mirror. He closed his eyes, bowing his head. The man enjoyed the quiet of the vacant bathroom for a long beat.
The sound of the door opening caught his attention. He straightened immediately, his features masking into rigid placidity.
He made the pretense of washing his hands. Looking up, the actions lessened as he immediately recognized the large, imposing figure now blocking the exit.
Scoffing under his breath, he shut the faucet off, mechanically reaching for the drying towels.
"Reddington send you to teach me a lesson?"
"That's up to you." Silas offered a sardonic smile.
The other man leaned back on the sink counter, bracing his hands. "He didn't think his own demonstration was sufficient?"
"You brought that one on yourself." Silas commented.
Harper let that one go. "If it's the woman, she gave as good as she got."
"Elizabeth can handle worse bastards than the likes of you." Silas waved a dismissive hand. "Let's cut to the chase here. There comes a time in a man's life when he reaches a crossroads. This is your time, grasshopper."
Harper's brow furrowed. He clearly wasn't following along.
"I now place two paths before you." Silas motioned. "One is through me. Ill advised at best, are we in agreement?" he waited patiently.
"What the hell are you talking–"
"Now we can talk this out like rational, intelligent people, which I personally hate." Silas confessed. "Or I can kick the shit out of you just because I enjoy that sort of thing."
Harper didn't... disagree.
"Something is up your ass." Silas continued undaunted. "Has been for some time now, more so the last few days... and most assuredly today." He made mention. "Spell it out so I can explain your irrational, very dangerous behavior to my boss, or again... I'll kick your ass and the answers I require, out of you."
"Those are my choices?" Harper chuckled mirthlessly.
"Pretty much." Silas concurred. "It saves time and trouble narrowing shit down."
"What does Reddington care?"
"Ours is not to reason why," Silas held up a warning finger. "I'm on a quest here, don't rain on my parade."
Harper's mood fell, and he was quiet for so long, Silas prepared himself for what he did best.
"I watch you people. I see you, day in... day out." Harper's tone was barely civil. "The great Red Reddington and all his hangers-on! Having the time of your lives."
Silas processed, remaining silent.
"Some of us aren't so lucky." Harper started to pace.
Silas stiffened, ready for any unexpected maneuvers.
"It seems, most of my damned life," the man halted, his voice lowering, "I've had nothing but bad luck. And along comes Reddington rubbing it in my face, constantly!"
Silas watched the guy's face closely. "Let me get my violin out."
"Yeah, that's right... it's easy for you to say, you're one of the elite."
Silas laughed. "Is that what I am."
Harper fell silent again. His manner agitated, pensively introverted. "There's this girl... woman." the guy raked his hand over his brow. "My lucks held out there too." he stated gravely. "She's married," his tone was bitter, defensive, "to one of the biggest pricks around."
"Bigger than even you?" Silas pushed deliberately.
"I want the bastard dead for what he..." the man's eyes were black pools of rage. "I could do it too..."
Silas waited.
"But I'm not Reddington, am I." Harper scorned. "So where does that leave me!?"
Silas pondered the answer... and his own options.
"I'm confused," Francis admitted, "which one would win in a fight? A zombie, vampire or a dragon?"
Red sighed. "Earth to Francis... we were discussing our itinerary."
Francis' frown deepened, more confused than ever. "We have an itinerary?"
"I vote we go horseback riding." Danny voted.
"What a shock." Francis snapped. "You know horses and I don't see eye-to-eye."
"That's because they're taller than you, honey." Emma explained patiently.
"I mean... they hate me!" Francis clarified.
"They don't hate you, Francis." Liz was sure. "They sense your fear."
"I ain't afraid of nothing, woman!" Francis balked.
The young man backed up slightly when Lizzy stepped forward, a scowl on her pretty face. Red spread his hands plaintively for the action.
"In the sense that," Daniel stepped closer, lowering his voice, "... they can smell the city boy on you, that's all."
"I can smell the horse shit on them!" Francis wrinkled his nose.
"Touché." Danny gave up the fight.
Red's eyes traveled over Lizzy's form, taking in how her dress hugged her curves. "I have an itinerary that is only meant for two." he leaned, nuzzling her temple. "Wanna play?"
"Yeah," Liz forced a smile, "but... what about all your winnings, Red?" She kept staring at the dealer as he stacked and counted chips.
"Baby, Mark will handle all that." Red replied, nodding to the people slapping his shoulder in congratulations as they passed.
"Are you kidding me?" Liz swiped a nervous hand across her brow. "Are we comfortable with that?"
"Are you impugning Mark's integrity?" he held his grin.
"Oh, no... not at all!" Liz quickly denied the truth. "It's just that... gosh, Red, that's an awful lot of money... isn't it? Silas said it was."
Red glanced at the dealer and the man's occupation. "Some would say it is." he conceded. "What do you want to do with the money?"
"What do I have to do with it... it's your money. You won it." Liz reminded dutifully, her eyes innocent, wide and unblinking.
"I see." Red doubted the woman's reply and veracity. "So I can do with it as I please?"
"Of course!" Liz brightly agreed. "But first, you should actually... get it."
"So if I wanted to buy you a new car or jewelry, I could. Since it's my money." Red continued innocently.
"Now, why do I need a car when Silas drives me everywhere?" Liz responded irritably. "And you bought me jewelry. What more could I need?"
"I could think of a few dozen things I could get you." Some of it adult oriented, Red thought mischievously.
"Which you would do regardless of whether you had won this money or not." Liz reminded. "You've only had it ten minutes, and it's burning a hole in your pocket." she said, crossing her arms.
"Burning a hole in my pocket?" the man laughed gently.
"Donate some of it. Right now. Take some of the pressure off."
"Any specific organization?" Red's gaze was gentle. He liked how the woman thought.
Liz closed her eyes, thinking hard, an answer forthcoming. "St. Judes."
Red smiled gently. "I already support–"
"Then support them more." She insisted. "There's also Make a Wish? Special Olympics?" she rattled off rapidly. "There are a couple dozen children's camps that are in dire need of donations." She knew from making donations herself. "Oh, Toys for Tots! I love shopping for them. But... that's really more towards December." She frowned. "I suppose." She squelched her disappointment.
"I'll tell you what." Red sidled closer to the woman, "I'll have my people draw up a list of every charity they can find and you can pick every one you'd like to see my money go to, sound good?"
Liz eagerly nodded. "Oh, Red... you are such a good man!" She planted a soft kiss on his lips. "I love you so much!"
And as simple as that, Red ended up with what he had wanted all along. Lizzy ecstatically happy.
He also made note to take her out during the Christmas shopping season and let her buy as many toys as she could ever possibly want to give to Toys for Tots.
And to think, an hour ago, that money had meant nothing more to him than... a ways to a means. A selfish, mean-spirited means as well.
Lizzy was changing his life for the better... in every way that mattered.