June 26th
Glancing up from the manifest he perused the last few moments, Lizzy's soft sigh alerted Red to a problem.
The woman sat in the window seat, legs pulled up, a soft afghan placed over the shapely limbs.
Lizzy stared out the window overlooking the garden, her expression a sad one.
"You should take a bath." Red stated quietly. "It might make you feel better."
"I don't want to feel better." Liz had decided sometime ago. "Sometimes, a woman just needs to feel... not better, Red."
Red understood the statement, to his surprise. Lizzy was finally processing her piss poor day. She was a bit melancholy, a bit forlorn, a little rattled.
Losing Lia's friendship unsettled the woman.
Red tested a theory. "Dembe would advise a nice, hot bath."
Lizzy's chin lifted from her propped knees as she gave the words due consideration.
Red sighed his annoyance. "What is it with you women and Dembe Zuma's ability to sway any and all decisions cast?"
"Dembe has our best interest at heart." Liz went back to her brooding.
"Oh, and I don't?" Red snapped.
"You just want to see me naked." Liz countered knowingly.
"I will not argue that point because... yes, I always do." Red shook his head irritably, stacking his papers brusquely. "Well then, if you're not going to use the bath," he pushed abruptly from his seat, "I guess it shouldn't go to waste!"
Red walked off, a little perturbed maybe, but moreso... he knew how to stir Elizabeth's curiosity.
"What are you talking about?" she grumbled, arising reluctantly with a deep sigh, slowly retracing Red's footsteps
Rounding the corner of the master bath, Liz stopped dead in her tracks... her mouth falling agape at the sight which greeted her.
The entire room was lit by a bevy of candlelight. The fragrant, flickering soft light adorned every available surface.
Mountainous bubbles beckoned the woman closer, lovely smells drifted from the steaming water, delighting the senses.
A silver tray filled with fruit slices, cubed cheese, a tall goblet of wine and a neatly stacked assortment of reading material sat on a decorative table beside the tub, awaiting some fortunate woman's pleasure...
Liz turned wide eyes to a patiently waiting Red Reddington. "You did all this?"
"I am pleased your tone holds the requisite awe I was needing to hear." he teased. "Does my meager effort please you? Or should I perhaps call Dembe in for a better suggestion?" he lifted enquiring brows.
Liz's blue eyes swept the area, words failing her. "I...I..."
Lizzy and her baths, Red learned early on... were a necessity. They weren't only a physical, but spiritual, cleansing.
A cleansing ritual he encouraged by purchasing exotic bath accouterments to persuade her to bask in a prolonged Zen moment.
If he were honest with himself, he too enjoyed the time. It was quite a sensual picture, seeing glimpses of Lizzy's flesh through the cascade of bubbles.
"Never mind..." Red felt better. "I guarantee a few minutes in that water and all your woes will simply," he waved his hand dramatically about, "...vanish like the pop of a bubble."
"Oh, Red, this is lovely." Liz felt bad for her behavior. "I'm sorry I've been such a–"
"Expect for that remark about Dembe, I forgive all your sins, my child," he chuckled, crossing himself sacredly. "Now, get in that tub and let the world go to pot. You just spend some quality time with your rubber duckie and soon that world will look better."
"You're confusing me with Francis." Red smiled warmly at the sound of Lizzy's giggle.
"That is one thing that will never happen." he prophesied on his way out the door. "Unless I come in here and find him trying on yourclothes, I suppose."
"Don't go!" Liz hastened to halt his intended departure. "Stay..." her expression altered hastily, "but... you're not sharing my bath."
Red held up his hands in the universal sign of peace. "I will contend myself to lust from afar, rest assured."
The man found a comfortable spot to lounge, seeking his cup of coffee ,which he always enjoyed in the evening.
"Doesn't that stuff keep you awake?" Liz was quickly divesting herself of clothing.
"Just the opposite, it relaxes me." he motioned. "A little slower if you please, one likes to savor."
Liz obeyed, holding her smile. "I forgot."
Red's eyes savored the unveiling of the gorgeous body to the culmination when most of the creamy flesh disappeared beneath the frothy surface of bubbles and water.
Liz sighed blissfully, sinking into pure bliss.
Red grinned accordingly. "Told ya you'd feel better."
"Dembe," Liz pointed out, "wouldnever say, I told you so."
"Fuck, Dembe," Red rolled his eyes, "...not literally," he immediately amended, "you understand."
Lizzy's laugh delighted the man.
The room fell into a comfortable silence for some few minutes.
Red glanced about for his manifest, which he had left in the other room.
"I wish we could get away from the city for a while." Liz murmured her thoughts, grimacing. "Listen to me, I'm thinking like you, as if I could just pack up and go at a moment's notice." a soft smile graced her lips.
"Why can't you?" Red stretched, sitting his coffee aside. It was his turn to grimace as he loudly popped his sore, aching neck. "Is there a law that says you can't?"
Liz opened her eyes, slowly sitting up. "Well, I... I guess... well, why can't we?"
Red held his expression as the woman shifted a teasing look his way. "I mean, you own a jet, you're loaded... we can leave anytime we want."
"Exactly." Red approved. "Mark's invitation has no beginning or ending dates. And I for one am ready to go. How about it?"
Liz blinked. "...Yes," she realized, "yes, I am. I am ready or... I can be ready. I'm pretty good at throwing things in suitcases."
"Let's not go that far." Red mused. "Last trip you forget my boxers."
"I did that on purpose." she blinked again, this time a trifle seductively.
"I stand corrected." Red's tone dripped with sensuality. "After that remark... or was it a confession, I am more than ready for a little one-on-one time with you."
Liz sank deep into the luxurious surroundings, the hot liquid saturating her body with radiating warmth. She reached for her glass of wine, sighing blissfully.
"It's the simple things in life, isn't it?" she cast a sultry glance the man's way.
"You're just asking to be fucked raw." Red arose... sighing blissfully. "On that note, I shall take my leave that you might truly enjoy a little alone time."
Lizzy pouted prettily for him. "I will miss you." she promised, choosing a ripe grape which to nibble.
"Yeah, I can see that." the man sighed again, this time not so blissfully as he made his way back to the manifest papers.
"Just know, I'm taking liberties when you get out," Red gripped the handle of the door.
Lizzy's soft giggle followed his departure.
Red Reddington was passing a leisurely morning. Outside birds chirped merrily and white fluffy clouds filled a beautiful blue sky... which gave him pause for thought.
What catastrophe awaited to spoil a perfectly good day.
The way his luck was going of late, there had to be something dark looming on the horizon.
Red glanced over the top of his paper to see Francis Holbrook sauntering through the archway of the dining room.
The young man was freshly showered, a clear indication Francis had obviously stayed here last night... unbeknownst to his host, but there was another oddity which caught Red's attention.
"What happened to you?" Liz had stopped her coffee cup mid-sip, her brows shooting into the fluffy strands of dark hair. "Did you get the number of the truck?"
Francis waved the question aside, as he did his busted lip and blackened eye.
Making his way to the side bar, Francis scooped a ladle of eggs to his plate. "You know what I would like?" he grumbled dejectedly. "I would like to get the hell away from this place for a while. Anyone with me?"
The guy checked with his friends who already sat about the sprawling table.
"You aren't going to address the elephant in the room?" Red asked politely.
Francis glanced about, seeing no elephant. "Maybe I'm not the only one who needs a vacation."
"He means..." Dembe rephrased carefully, "we are all curious how you received your injuries."
"Well, why didn't he just say so?" Francis plopped down in an empty seat. "I was a little perturbed over how Granger handled the situation with Lizzy. We all sat down... me, Granger and Lia and calmly discussed the matter."
Liz and Red exchanged wary looks.
"It's resolved." Francis searched the table for strawberry jam. "Everything is hunky-dory... who's hogging the butter?"
"How... what it resolved?" Red asked.
"In a civilized manner." Francis took exception. "How do you think?"
"Not that." Red clearly doubted the young man.
"I can 'couth' when I want." Francis informed one and all.
Adjusting in his seat, Red shot Dembe and the head guard a disbelieving look.
Silas laughed low, sliding the butter dish over. "Good thing I softened him up for you or you'd be dead."
"Or he would." Francis muttered under his breath. "Look, I like and respect Lia and any decision she made concerning our relationship, okay? Where is it written I cannot voice my opinion on how her boyfriend behaved toward my friend, however?"
Red shook his head, listening to the bullshit pouring freely from Francis' mouth.
"You are among friends here." Dembe soothed any supposed frayed nerves. "We all applaud your actions."
"We're off to Mark's." Liz brightened the mood of the young man's. "You can come with us if you want to go."
Francis halted his bite half-way to his mouth, "Cool... what's the timeline?"
"We hoped to be off tomorrow morning." Red checked with Elizabeth, who nodded her acquiescence.
"That's doable." Francis returned to his plate.
"Granger's pretty good." Silas mused. "That he didn't kill you speaks highly of your questionable combative skills."
"I found the Glock I stuck up his ass was a great equalizer." Francis managed between bites.
Silas grinned accordingly, returning to his coffee.
"I know you had planned this excursion to Mark's with Lia as your companion." Red fretted for the boy. "I hope you will have a relatively good time, anyway."
"Will chicks be there?" Francis lifted an enquiring brow.
Red had his answer. "Hope springs eternal with your youth." he sighed.
"We don't need to wait until tomorrow, Red." Liz touched the man's forearm. She held his eyes, hoping he picked up on her meaning. "There's nothing holding us here."
"Tomorrow is fine. Gives everyone a chance to make plans or pack." There was no way Lizzy was not going to her awards banquet, not if he had a say.
Liz was not happy. "We're holding up the parade."
"The parade can start without us." Red's tone sounded final. "I'm assuming you provided the men a chance to have some downtime?" he questioned his head guard.
"They can do whatever the hell they want." Silas had it under control. "As for me, I'm not doing a damn thing."
He eyed Red meaningfully. "I'm gonna sit my naked ass by the pool with beer and pork rinds... and not move the whole damn time you're gone." the man shrugged. "Well, I'll find a piece of ass to entertain my time, but other than that..."
"Charming..." Liz crinkled her nose at the descriptive statement.
"I thought I'd go see my family," Joe offered his plans over. "See the new tadpole."
"Sarah finally incubated that squirt, huh?" Silas nodded approvingly. "She looked like she was about to drop a watermelon."
Liz brightened, smacking her guard's arm in rebuke. "Someone had a baby?"
"My brother and his wife." Joe smiled for the excitement in her tone. "A week ago now."
"Why didn't you say something!" Liz scolded. "You could have already been there!"
"Sarah just dropped an eight pound hobbit," Joe chuckled, "I doubt she was very much in the mood for guests."
"That's a fine way to talk about a baby!" Liz tsked.
Joe leaned, pulling his phone free. Swiping the screen, he held the phone aloft. "Tell me that kid doesn't look like a hobbit."
Red leaned, checking out the provided photo over Liz's shoulder, fighting hard to control the chuckle gurgling in his chest at the elfin-like creature glaring back at him.
"Go ahead," Joe dared his observation be refuted, "I'm waiting."
Red had to give it to Sarah and Jim; the kid was cute...but appeared pissed off at the world. The baby scowled seriously at the camera pointed at him, as if knowing, all enraptured by the photo instantly focused on his long gangly limbs and dark, frizzy brown hair framing his elfin-like ears.
Apparently Lizzy noticed them as well, giggling her delight, tracing the baby's ears with a gentle finger.
"Look at that little precious thing!" she gushed, holding the photo aloft so everyone could see.
Red wheezed in his chest when Silas' expression was one of abject horror as he grimaced at the sight presented.
"Don't you think he's adorable, Red?" Liz lifted the phone closer for his inspection, wrinkling her nose at something so profoundly adorable.
Joe shifted a knowing look towards his boss and friend.
Red shrugged halfheartedly, "He's the cutest little hobbit I've ever seen."
Joe spewed his amusement, falling back into his chair, clapping his large hands gleefully.
"Red!" Liz hit his thigh, pinching her lips. "How could you say such a thing!"
Glancing at Dembe, Red's smile widened when he found his friend completely oblivious to the surrounding happenings. The man absently forked a piece of fruit, his nose buried in his newest murder/mystery novel.
Silas took the phone from Liz's unresisting hands, showing Francis what he was missing, both their expressions askew.
"They're gonna save a lot on Halloween costumes." Silas shoved the phone away disdainfully after a few hazardous moments.
"I don't see 'hobbit'." Francis disagreed with the others assessments. "He looks like a just-hatched buzzard to me."
Red smiled as Lizzy's brightened face fell as the man finished his statement.
Joe cackled his glee. "I gotta tell Jim that!"
"You'll do no such thing!" Liz gasped her shock. "You're all horrible!"
Red's amusement grew when Lizzy scrolled the picture. The infant, obviously displeased by the state of affairs, presented a deeper scowl of discontent... and a pointy red hat sitting atop his head.
Nora pushed unceremoniously through the doorway, juggling a couple platters.
Red gallantly stepped, quickly relieving the woman of most of her burden before placing the food on the center of the table. He moved aside as Lizzy pushed her chair back, hastily grabbing the phone for Nora's inspection.
"Finally, someone with sensitivity and taste!" Liz presented the precious sight. "Look, Nora!"
"Oh!" Nora fawned over the photo, placing one bowl on the buffet. "Look at that darling little gnome!" her features softened. "Look at his little pointed hat and elf ears! How adorable is he!"
A rumbling chuckle caught in Red's throat at Lizzy's stricken expression.
"Nora," Liz pouted forlornly, "the baby isn't in costume!"
"I didn't imply he was, dear." Nora looked at the young woman, a bit confused.
Controlling his mirth, Red guided Lizzy back to her seat.
The woman plopped unceremoniously back onto the cushioned surface, dropping her napkin across her lap with about the same grace.
"If I hear you say that about my baby," Liz shook a warning finger at the men at the table, "I'll make sure none of you miscreants can even produce a child, ever!"
"You bring a kid home looking like that," Silas waved his fork towards the phone being passed around the table, "I'll gladly let you smite me... before your demon seed can do it."
Half listening to the repartee being tossed about, Red repeated Lizzy's proclamation in his head.
He had never heard Lizzy mention the prospect of her own child so casually like that before.
Given the topic, she could only be voicing her discontent at how babies in general were viewed by the gathered troublemakers...
But he liked to think she was, perhaps, contemplating having one of her own. She would give him beautiful children.
He returned his focus to the table for he could do no less with the men boisterously acknowledging Nora's presence as they often did whenever the lovely woman entered the room.
Red canted his head, looking curiously between Francis and his head guard. Silas had not missed the definite shift in the young man's mood in just the last few seconds.
While everyone was their normal jubilant selves, trading quips, shamelessly flirting and vying for the older woman's attention... Francis was uncharacteristically subdued.
Nora was very astute, her keen eyes focused on Francis' reserved manner.
"Francis," the woman's tone was light and airy, "would you like seconds?"
"No Ma'am, thank you." the reply made Red's brows lift fractionally. When had that boy never wanted...
"Oh, I think you do."
Something in the way the simple statement was delivered... a certain underlying current, sent delicious waves of sensual vibrations along Red's nape.
He sat up straighter, digesting the sensation.
Silas' brow furrowed ever so slightly, for he, too, felt the shivering sparkle of feathery lightness traverse his system.
"What?" Liz sensed something amiss somewhere. Everything appeared normal enough to her flitting eyes, but both men's sudden stillness alerted her to a problem. "...What?"
"Yes, Ma'am." Francis instantly replied. He sat motionless, as if waiting for something..."Oh, right...my apologies," the boy hastily grabbed his plate, holding it aloft, swallowing hard.
Nora gently placed a selection of food on the delicate China, "Eat it all," she suggested evenly. "Need to keep your strength up." she patted his shoulder warmly.
"Yes, Ma'am," Francis immediately began downing the nourishment.
The woman smiled softly, "Would you like some, Silas?" she asked pleasantly.
"...I don't know," the guard sat back in his seat, presenting his physique to the woman, "what exactly are you offering."
Red's eyes drifted between the two, most interested in the social intercourse taking place... especially after Nora's exchange with Francis.
Questions were abound in his own mind, that much was certain.
"Silas!" Liz snapped her annoyance. "Not at the table!"
Ignoring the reprimand, Silas kept his full attention on the other woman present. "...On the table works for me."
Nora tsked, "I expected better from you, Silas."
"Red," the guard held his hand aloft, "give me your tie... and belt."
"Silas!" Liz sucked in a shocked breath.
"Naughty little boys don't phase me, sweetie." Nora ran a gentle, soothing hand over Francis' hair.
Red's mouth quirked, for this was the only moment in history the boy did not attempt to smooth his coif. Instead, Francis' eyes closed to the pleasure evoked, a stifled grown escaping his throat before he could prevent it.
"I can handle them well enough...I rather enjoy their untamed spirit," Nora cast Silas a challenging look, "don't I, Francis?"
"Yes, Ma'am." Francis gulped nervously.
Red often wondered what the hell went on under his own roof after he retired for the night because... it was damned obvious something sure as hell happened.
He looked at Nora in an entirely new light, a favorable one, granted.
"What?" Liz demanded to be let in on whatever the hell was going down here at this table.
"I'm not a boy," Silas reminded, picking up the gauntlet thrown down, his eyes still steady on Nora's clear ones.
"All the better," Nora's smile remained in place, those blue eyes flicking Silas' body absently. "Anyone for biscuits?"
"Is that a euphemism?" Silas wanted to know.
"...Perhaps." Nora smiled happily, arching a provocative brow, "I'll just pop back into the kitchen and have another batch ready post-haste... Francis," her tone altered to a no-nonsense one, "eat your breakfast."
"Yes, Ma'am."
Red exchanged glances with his head guard, who appeared a little more than out-of-sorts now.
Silas' scowl deepened considerably and was now fixed on a fidgety Francis Holbrook.
Red checked on the boy, who seemed pretty miserable by this point.
Waiting discretely, allowing Nora to clear the doorway, Silas pounced on his unsuspecting prey.
"You choked, didn't you?" Silas accused disdainfully, sensing the problem now.
Francis dropped his face melodramatically to his hands, "Yes!" he seemed relieved to admit his failing. "No! I don't know!" he groaned dismally. "It all happened so fast... but," he sighed blissfully, "it was ever so slow and savory! The pressure was insane!"
Liz broke from her melancholy, turning her attention to the new unfolding drama. "What? What happened? What the hell is going on around here!"
Completely ignoring the woman, the guard's eyes remained intent on his objective. His hawk-like eyes pierced Francis' broken façade further.
"Are you telling me," Silas disgusted, "you couldn't even get it up for the woman?" he couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Hell, I'm hard just sitting here!"
Liz glanced down at the tabletop before realizing what she was doing. Just as quickly, her eyes darted upward, looking anywhere but at her head guard's hulking form.
Red grinned, sniggering under his breath, for he knew Silas' words registered with the woman.
Liz looked back and forth between the men, swiveling her head this way and that. "What woman?"
"It wasn't that!" Francis squawked his protest. "That was in perfect working order!"
"If someone doesn't tell me the problem, you're all gonna be very, very sorry!" Liz warned.
"So the problem would be, what exactly?" Red sighed woefully, already sensing the problem.
"You want to know? You really want to know!" Francis leaned, narrowing his eyes.
"That woman," he pointed to the vicinity of the kitchen, "is not human, she's like a Succubus of the best kind! She's just this side of kinky with a dash of brilliance!" he slammed his fork on the tabletop. "That's the problem!"
Red idly scratched his forehead as all digested that bit of information.
"I was supposed to make her bounce off the walls, damn it," Francis critiqued his performance, "not... well, you know."
"Was it not a pleasurable experience?" Dembe glanced up from his novel.
Francis lay his forehead on the table, groaning miserably. "This is all wrong... all so terribly awry! The woman sucked my soul dry and I'm feeling confused, forlorn, drained... but blissfully fulfilled!"
Red leaned into his fist, desperately hiding his smirk of amusement.
Liz gaped, leaning into the table. "Did you and Lia–"
"Lia isn't a Succubus!" Francis sighed heavily. "Ball crusher, maybe..." he shrugged, before refocusing. "I didn't sleep with Lia!" he scowled. "Well, not since she dumped me."
Silas sighed heavily, looking at Liz with a deep scowl, "Francis knocked boots with Nora!" he drawled. "Keep up with the conversation, for God's sake."
Red choked back a laugh as Lizzy's body stiffed with awareness... she sat very still, her eyes widening to the size of saucers before hastily pushing her seat back, rushing off to the kitchen.
"Oh, would you get back here!" Francis balked, calling after the rapidly retreating figure. "Do we have to involve everyone in this fiasco!"
Liz shoved through the door, ignoring Francis completely.
"Nora was involved in the fiasco, you nitwit!" Silas grunted. "Though, if I were her... I'd claim I was the one drained and probed by the soul sucking demon." the guard sneered. "I'd have a better time understanding that than her letting you have a go at it."
Lacing his fingers, Red leaned into his elbows. "Francis, I think you're stressing for no reason."
Silas shifted a glance towards Red that spoke of extreme doubt. "I think this is one occasion numbnut here can safely stress out, with good reason!"
Francis rolled his forehead sideways on the pristine tablecloth, looking awkwardly over and up at Red.
"I don't know when it started to go sideways." Francis confessed his lack of endurance. "She's a force of freak nature, man. I was totally blindsided."
"Nora seems in a good mood," Red pointed out, "she didn't give you the cold shoulder or laugh right in your face."
Francis sat up slowly, quietly processing what was being said.
"She offered you seconds." Silas added his input, sarcasm abounding.
"She did," Francis nodded, then cocked his head, his brow furrowed. "Oh, you meant breakfast?"
Red hastily covered his smile when Silas' brows shot sky high, not expecting that revelation.
"Either way..." Red shrugged. "I believe Nora appreciates a conscientious lover willing to put in the effort rather than one who might not be open to," he cleared his throat, "... experimentation or new horizons."
Leaning into his fist, Red watched the boy contemplate all said, his expression a flurry of emotions. Though... confusion seemed to be at the forefront.
"Man," Silas cut to the chase, "that Nora even let you get to third base is unbelievable. That she gave you another chance at bat... it's a fucking miracle."
"You think so?" Francis looked to the other men at the table, finding them all nodding slowly, as if it should be common knowledge.
"Dude, Nora's hot." Joe scowled. "Be grateful she even gave you the time of day."
Francis brightened when he noticed the other guards now nodding more emphatically.
"You have gone where no man here has gone before," Joe was always there to pep-talk his friends, "that alone gets you bragging rights!"
Red didn't know why he bothered being couth around this crowd... particularly Francis. Sometimes, it seemed life would move on faster were he just to cut out the bullshit.
"Stop worrying, Francis." Red pushed from his seat. "Nora would have let you know if you were a disappointment in any way shape or form."
"So... how was it?" Joe leaned, keeping his voice low.
"Wouldn't you like to know." Francis grumbled.
"Well, yeah, he just asked, didn't he?" Silas snapped, flicking the boy on the back of the head.
"I believe," Dembe turned the page of his book, "Francis left off at the part Nora drained him of his soul."
"Among other things, I'm sure." Silas cut the boy a scathing glance. "You better have not embarrassed the lot of us." he jabbed the table with his fingertips. "I want details, and I want them now."
Shaking his head, Red arose, having his own horizons to conquer, leaving his men to their own devices.
Francis' whining had tapered off, so he felt comfortable vacating the area... for more interesting terrain.
"You slept with Francis!" Liz burst through the kitchen door, her excitement eliciting one blustery faux pas after another.
Nora looked up from the mixing bowl in her hand, "Was I not supposed to?"
"No!" Liz sputtered. "Well... yes... no... I don't know!" she tossed her hands out. "I mean, what you do is your own business but... Francis?!"
Nora winced, sitting the bowl aside. "Is Mr. Reddington displeased?"
"...No?" Liz frowned. "What has he got to do with–"
"I didn't think until just now, he may have rules about fraternizing between staff members." Nora grimaced.
"Nora, you are not just staff!" Liz pulled at a stool, sitting heavily. "That's not even..." she huffed her frustration. "The point is... I don't even know if there is a point to this... this..." she gave up, dejectedly.
"I thought you weren't gonna," Liz shrugged, "you know... with Francis."
"Oh!" Nora chuckled. "Well, Francis looked so glum when he arrived here. He had a confrontation, I helped with his boo-boos," she explained. "we started talking, one thing led to another and well...I was in a mood." she grimaced. "I get that way at times."
"So you felt sorry for him?" Liz felt defeated. It would crush Francis if he learned Nora gave him pity sex.
"Well, I did." Nora admitted. "But that's not why I..." she chuckled, understanding the gist of the question, "no, that was not the reason, dear."
"Then why!?" Liz could think of no other reason then flushed prettily. "I'm sorry, that's a very personal question."
"Oh, honey," Nora patted her hand gently. "It's just something that happened, no one planned it," she grinned. "You know, I do still feel... sensual, even at my age."
"Oh!" Liz hastily backtracked. "Yes, o-of course you do. I didn't mean..." she winced. "You are a beautiful, vibrant woman! Of course, you feel," she swallowed hard, "... that."
Nora smiled, resuming her stirring.
"I hope Francis wasn't a pig or anything?" Liz dreaded asking. "He can be pretty obnoxious and rude, and well... Francis!"
"Francis was a complete gentleman. He wasn't anything like what you are accustomed to seeing." Nora assured with a small chuckle.
"You mean a lecherous slut?" Liz clarified innocently.
She breathed a sigh of relief when Nora laughed quietly, shaking her head at the precisely worded description. "I'm a little confused," Liz admitted her failing.
"He's devastated he didn't," Liz whispered conspiratorially, "knock your boots off."
"Really?" Nora expressed her surprise. "He seemed on his game this morning?"
Liz's mouth dropped open at that bit of information. "He stayed with you... all night?"
Nora smiled warmly, pouring her mixture into a nearby pan. "I had a delightful time, dear."
Liz was trying to process the implication of all revealed, her head spinning.
Red unceremoniously pushed through the doorway, a troubled look on his face.
Nora paused in her movements, looking at the man cautiously as he leaned his fists into the countertop.
"Please tell me you won't be giving notice in the near future... or ever." Red cut to the chase.
Nora breathed a nervous laugh, "I am sorry if I over-stepped boundaries."
"There are no boundaries to worry over." Red advised. "Especially where you are concerned, Nora."
The woman's expression softened. "I am ever so relieved." she went back to her baking.
"Then I'm staying." Nora smiled.
"Nora, your private life is your own." Red put any questions to rest the woman may harbor. "You may have relationships with whoever you wish." he cocked his head after a moment.
"If you would like, I can run a background check on them to confirm they aren't assholes or anything like that." Red offered magnanimously.
Nora grinned, nodding her acceptance, "I appreciate that."
"Just to clarify," he focused all his attention on the woman, "... I don't have to kill Francis? He wasn't too much of an idiot or anything?"
The boy had been overly flirtatious with Nora since day one. Nora had always seemed to either laugh it off in her own inimitable fashion.
Red thought it was a game everyone enjoyed.
It was no secret to him, either; many of the guards on the property had an interest in Nora as well.
Red would have intervened had he sensed Nora was displeased by Francis' or any of the guards' attention, but still, it never hurt to make sure his people were comfortable and felt safe.
Nora laughed quietly, shaking her head. "Well, that would be a waste in every sense of the word," she gestured. "What would we do without Francis?"
"You make him nervous as hell now." Red grinned knowingly. "I can't say I blame him... you're a force to be reckoned with." he offered praise where praise was due.
"Oh, I have my moments, I suppose." Nora shared a smile with her employer. "Few and far between, granted." she shrugged slender shoulders.
Red patted Lizzy's back as she slid off the stool, guiding her towards the door.
"I will shut this entire matter down," Red jerked his head towards the dining room, "if you think it's getting our of hand, Nora. Just tell me and it's done."
"Where's the fun in that?" Nora's eyes twinkled.
Red shared a quiet laugh with Nora, both understanding the repartee easily.
Lizzy looked sharply up at him, shock showing in her pretty face.
"Let's not pester Nora any longer... come along." Red gently ushered the perplexed woman from the kitchen.
Dembe shut the car down, looking silently back at his friend.
On the drive over, Raymond had fallen silent and remained so the entire drive.
Engrossed in the letter Miguel left, Raymond fell oblivious to his surroundings, reading the short missive over and over again.
The man didn't bat an eyelash as a truck swerved into their lane to avoid a stalled Toyota on the interstate.
Tires screeched and horns blared... but Raymond had remained unaware of the unfolding drama, deeply entrenched in the words his friend had written.
Knowing full well what that letter entailed, Dembe understood Raymond's preoccupation.
Miguel knew better than anyone the demons Raymond Reddington faced on a daily basis. That inner knowledge enabled him the ability to communicate with Raymond on a level only so few understood.
Miguel always had a knack for offering the proper encouragement to refocus Raymond's drive and determination. It was one of his many saving graces.
Dembe was eternally grateful Miguel had the forethought to write out, in irrefutable words, how each acquaintance felt about Raymond Reddington.
Dembe could almost hear Miguel's infectious laughter at Raymond's expense. There was a battle of wills between the two men that verged on friendly competition; who would have the last word.
The subject never mattered... the competition was energetic, focused.
Miguel won the war... no one could refute his final correspondence.
Reddington would have to finally admit defeat.
Miguel would have treasured that fact. The victory would have been sweet.
It was evident how very much Raymond missed his dear friend and confidant. Raymond grieved in his own way.
Dembe was aware a war of a different sort waged inside his friend.
Since receiving Marvin Gerard's email, old doubts and questions resurfaced.
Dembe hoped Miguel's words reinforced what a good, decent man Raymond could be.
He hated to break the man's reverie...
"Raymond," Dembe shifted in his seat, preparing to exit the vehicle, "we're here."
Blinking his disorientation, Red took in his new surroundings. "Thank you, Dembe."
Smoothing a reverent hand against the rich linen paper, Red's eyes closed... quietly thanking his friend and comrade for his touching words.
Carefully folding the letter, Red returned it to the thick envelope, tucking it into his inner pocket.
Moments later, Red winced with displeasure as the elevator door squawked its protest as it lifted to allow the men to exit.
"The government can buy a two-hundred-dollar hammer," Red complained, "but not a three dollar can of WD-40?"
Chuckling, Dembe side-stepped his friend as Raymond waved at a man across the way, catching the guy's attention.
"Excuse me.." Red called out to passing maintenance man. Gesturing the man closer, he peered at the man's name tag, pulling his wallet free.
"Yes, sir?" the man approached slowly, only to gape a moment later when a wad of hundreds was shoved in his direction.
"John, could you possibly," Red grimaced once more as the door squealed, the sound echoing bitingly in the cavernous war room, "oil that damn door."
"Reddington," Ressler sighed, approaching the attempted exchange, "what are you doing?"
"Hopefully persuading John here to halt that..." Red shivered irritably as the sound worsened, "horrible, wretched racket."
Ressler grimaced as, once again, the cringe-worthy sound clawed at the nerves of everyone present.
"We placed a work order but..." Ressler sighed wearily. "I can't tell the man how to spend his cash," he gestured the workman to take the offered payment.
Ressler couldn't admit it out loud, but this was one occasion he was secretly relieved Reddington possessed such a pretentious attitude.
That door had been driving him insane all damn morning!
The other Agents present breathed a sigh of relief, grateful for Reddington's intervention, as well.
"I'll get on it right away." John beamed happily, grasping the payment Mr. Reddington shoved in his hand.
"I'll wish to speak you, Samar and Aram shortly." Red informed the senior agent in passing.
"A new Blacklister?" Ressler called after the men, who even now were bouncing up the stairs to Cooper's office.
"...No," Red called down without a backward glance.
Harold Cooper's head jerked upright as his door swung open without warning.
"Harold," Red stepped through the threshold, removing his hat. Grasping the back of a nearby chair, he pulled it towards him, taking a leisurely seat.
"Please," Harold sat back in his seat, waving an irritable hand, "make yourself comfortable."
Cooper nodded in greeting to Dembe before the man took a seat in the corner, pulling a crossword puzzle from his pocket.
"We're going on vacation," Red began without preamble.
"All of us?" the man quipped, gesturing to the encompassing stronghold outside his office door. "Will we all fit in your jet?"
The clipped and straight forward announcement left Cooper confused, perhaps even concerned. It was rare to hear such a dour tone from Reddington. Normally, the man was flippant, sarcastic or simply in a good humor.
"You never inform us of your plans... ever." Cooper was understandably wary suddenly.
"Is there something wrong?" Cooper dropped his pen, focusing his attention on the man across from him.
"I was unaware a vacation indicated disaster was on the horizon." Red rested his hat on his knee, cocking his head curiously.
Harold sat upright, leaning into his forearms, "You don't seem excited by the prospect of your impending downtime."
"On the contrary," Red disagreed, "I'm anticipating a well-deserved break from the drudgery."
Harold half-nodded, comprehending the underlying hint being broadcast.
Reddington wasn't averse to his leave of absence... but his visit to the Post Office.
It wasn't a secret Reddington had an aversion to the Blacksite since his run in with Anslo Garrick and really, Cooper couldn't blame the man.
Red had returned in good faith to come to Elizabeth's aide; only to end up handcuffed, separated from his people, then tortured by an old enemy.
Worst of all, the team Red trusted... betrayed him.
While the team still operated within the law... most times. When Reddington now issued a warning of imminent danger, all were more inclined to listen and heed the advice.
"I appreciate you informing us," Cooper inclined his head gratefully. "I will alert the team they are free for..." he lifted questioning brows.
"At least a week, possibly two." Red offered a tentative schedule.
"I am to assume Agent Keen is already aware of your intended departure?" Cooper inquired.
"Agent Keen is accompanying me." Red informed her supervisor.
Cooper sat forward, his brow furrowed. "Is she aware of this development?"
"She is," Red nodded. "My associates have become accustomed to her presence and will expect her to join in the... frivolity."
Cooper scratched his head, absently staring down at his calendar.
"Is there a problem?" Red held his tone.
"No..." Cooper admitted, "I've just never faced this dilemma before."
"And what dilemma would that be, exactly?" Red contained his growing ire.
"If she's going with you," Cooper laid out the problem at hand, "do I log her as working... or on vacation?"
"Ah, the bureaucratic mind." Red sighed lightly.
Dembe glanced at his friend from the corner of his eye, smiling subtly as Raymond's tension eased from his shoulders, comprehending Director Cooper's intent.
"Elizabeth will most assuredly be on vacation, Harold." Red assured. "All that is required is her presence."
"Still," Cooper voiced his concern, "I don't wish to deny access to pay that is rightfully hers."
Cooper cocked his head curiously as Reddington's features adopted a kind expression, nothing more.
As if he could or would not see to all Elizabeth's wants or needs.
"Elizabeth has been anticipating the time away," Red assured.
Drumming his fingers on the desktop, Cooper shrugged after a moment. "If Agent Keen should desire compensation, please tell her she only needs to alert me."
"I will," Red's tone softened. And he would, not because he believed Elizabeth would give a damn about the paycheck, but that Harold's concern would touch her.
"When does this vacation begin?" Harold asked, somewhat bemused. Criminals required downtime just like anyone else, he was learning.
"Technically? As of this exact moment." Red consulted his watch, already feeling some tension ease at the idea.
"I admit," Harold confided, "I appreciate this forced time-off."
"I'm not forcing you to do anything," Red said, "only alerting you."
"Oh, I know that." Cooper chuckled. "But when I explain the downtime to the Brass... it will be all your doing, of course."
Red shifted casually in his chair.
"What can they say?" Cooper held his amusement because Reddington was sticking it to the people Cooper least admired in life. "Their resident CI lives by his own set of rules and schedule."
The thought warmed the cockles of one's heart.
Cooper laughed, pulling a bottle of scotch and tumblers from his drawer. "I am merely playing the messenger."
He kindly gestured to the small fridge beside the quiet figure. "Dembe, there's tea in the fridge there."
"Thank you," Dembe smiled graciously. Leaning, he perused the selection inside before making his choice.
"Take Charlene out of town, Harold." Red suggested. "Get the hell out of here," he glanced around distastefully, "... go to my cabin. Charlene will enjoy the beach access and you... the fishing."
Red leaned, pulling a card free from his wallet, sliding it across the smooth desktop.
Cooper scratched his neck, grimacing slightly as he uncorked the bottle, "...I don't know." he waged a war of conscience.
"Fine dining and shopping is just a short drive away," Red sweetened the pot. "Charlene will have a wonderful time."
Harold glanced at the offered card, idly spinning it with his finger. "Surely this has to ring of 'unethical behavior' on my part."
Ever since his discussion with Elizabeth, Red felt annoyed Cooper and the team received so little in return for their efforts.
"Look at it this way," Red improvised. "The Brass created tonight's banquet to placate the troops in hopes of encouraging productivity." he stated facts. "One does not have to be clairvoyant to realize, yes?"
Cooper shrugged indifferently.
"We may not always see eye-to-eye and butt heads frequently about protocol and rules," Red continued, "but where the higher-ups do not appreciate the sacrifices made by Lizzy and your team... I most certainly do."
Cooper was actually touched the man bothered to give them any credence.
"It is such a small offer, the use of the cabin," Red coaxed, "you and your lovely wife deserve this time together."
The man checked on Dembe's welfare, pleased to see the guy could amuse himself anywhere, anytime.
"No strings, no bullshit." Red stressed. "Take the time, Harold."
Pouring a goodly splash in the heavy glass, Cooper nodded thoughtfully, "...Thank you," he chuckled. "Didn't take all that much persuading, did it."
Red lifted his glass in salute, sipping the warmed liquor. "I'm pleased."
"The key is being delivered to your wife." Dembe said, pocketing his phone, returning to his crossword puzzle diligently.
"He's so efficient." Red made mention.
Cooper smiled politely over to Dembe; then a thought occurred.
"Did Agent Keen inform you her team is being awarded for their work at the ceremony?" Cooper smiled, proud of his subordinates.
"She did, yes." Red nodded.
"Are you attending the banquet this evening?" Harold palmed the tumbler in his hands, warming the liquid.
"How would I accomplish this, pray tell," Red scowled, "as an apparition?"
"Oh," Harold half-laughed, remembering, "that's right. You can't go, can you?"
After working with Reddington, he sometimes forgot the man's role in the process. While glib, Red put in as much time on these cases as the team did. It truly was a shame the man's contributions weren't recognized or applauded.
He was sure Reddington didn't give a damn the system he aided snubbed his efforts, but still... it wasn't fair.
"I suppose it's not your scene, anyway." Cooper frowned, realizing he wasn't as keen on the evening as he had been. "The Feds aren't known for their party throwing skills."
"Am I given to understand photos are taken when the team receives these awards?" Red moved onto more important matters.
"Yes," Cooper nodded before understanding where Red was taking the conversation. "Though, press has been denied access to the event, the hired photographer will make photos only available to the Agent as most work undercover."
"I want a note in Elizabeth's file stating that stipulation." Red stressed.
"It's already in place," Harold assured. "After her attack, I placed a flag on Keen's file. Any mention of her is classified."
While Red didn't hold much faith in the government, at least he knew Cooper flagged the file. He would enlist his computer hacks to ping the file every so often to ensure it remained locked up tight.
"It's a shame, you know," Cooper began, drawing Red's attention.
"It is nice they're actually holding a banquet this year and Agents can say a few words to their loved ones," he said conversationally, "but other agencies get to have their name in the paper for the community to see their accomplishments."
While Red understood Cooper's point-of-view, he personally felt better Lizzy was hidden from sight.
"Take Agent Keen, for instance," Cooper smiled warmly for his youngest agent's accomplishments, "no one besides us knows her team is receiving an award for the Blacklisters they got off the streets."
Red had to admit, if the public knew the trash the team caught to date, people would sleep better at night.
"...Or that she alone is receiving an award for her work with the BAU." Cooper shook his head sorrowfully.
"Excuse me?" Red glanced up from his liquor, sitting upright.
Dembe lowered his crossword slowly, hearing the rise in tension in his friend's voice return.
"Well, of course," Cooper chuckled, "I didn't tell her. I wanted it to be a surprise."
Red sat his glass down, clutching his hat.
"Agent Keen is being presented an award for her profile work." Cooper beamed proudly. "She's had the highest solve rate based on the profiles she's provided."
Dembe knew how despondent Raymond felt missing Elizabeth and her team get their awards, but now that he knew Elizabeth was receiving one on her own merit and he wouldn't be there with her...
Dembe's mood fell seeing the disappointment and aggravation, subtle as it was, cross Raymond's features.
"You won't tell her, will you?" Cooper grinned, missing the moment entirely, glancing at the man as he stood.
"No," Red shook his head, downing the last of his tumbler, "no... I won't tell her."
Dembe stood, taking a cautious step towards his friend.
"And Red..." Cooper said, stilling the man in his tracks, "thanks for the use of your cabin. I think Charlene will have a really nice time."
Red inclined his head, situating his hat. "I hope so... you deserve it."
Dembe closed pained eyes, hearing the underlying tone of Raymond's words, his heart hurting for his friend. Whether or not Raymond believed it, he, too, deserved the same accolades everyone else would be receiving.
And Raymond damn well deserved to be there to see Elizabeth during such a monumental moment.
"Have a wonderful vacation, Dembe." Cooper raised his glass, picking up his phone, suddenly intent on calling his wife.
Rushing down the stairs, Dembe caught up with Raymond as he approached Elizabeth's team.
"Ressler," Red barked over the din of voices.
Ressler caught himself from snapping to attention at Reddington's sharp tone.
"As your Director will shortly inform you, your team is on stand down," Red glanced between the gathered trio, "until further notice."
Ressler had always been curious how Reddington, the man he knew to be irreverent and noncompliant, had not only faired in the military but accomplished the rank of Captain in such a short period of time.
Well, now Ressler knew. Reddington emitted a presence of authority and discipline without even trying.
"W-What?" Aram looked about anxiously. "Are they... shutting us down or..."
Samar came from her slouched position, scowling her own concern.
"No," Red relaxed his stature, realizing his tone had been... stressed, "I'm going on vacation."
The trio opposite him noticeably relaxed hearing that addendum.
"I've planned for a week," he informed the team, "but could possibly be gone for two as I have business afterwards."
Ressler frowned, unaccustomed to Reddington being so straightforward about his plans.
"Are you securing an alibi or..." Ressler cautiously broached the oddity. "You're never so forthcoming about, well... anything."
Red frowned internally, before comprehending the question. "I only wish to have uninterrupted time away." he assured.
"As this is short notice and you have not had ample time to prepare," Red offered, "I can provide you with funds and transportation to a destination of your choosing, should you wish time-off."
Aram gaped at the unexpected and generous offer, nervously straightening his keyboard.
"We don't have to work?" Ressler didn't trust the system, clearly.
"Clear minds are more productive." Red stated. "My advice, chuck work and take some downtime."
"Actually," Samar checked with her constituents, "we thought if nothing came up this weekend," she found her voice, grinning, "we'd just hit Atlantic City."
"Dembe..." Red glanced at the man, conveying a silent message.
Dembe once again pulled his phone free, making the necessary calls and arrangements.
Samar shrugged when Ressler frowned in her direction, wondering what that was all about.
"What is he doing there?" the man spoke of his curiosity.
"He is making reservations for you all." Red explained Dembe's actions. "As this is my doing, it's only fair I foot the bill."
"You're not footing my bill." Ressler was certain of the fact.
"You can foot mine," Samar teased, in good spirits now.
"You think Liz might want to go with us?" Aram asked his friends.
Dembe stepped beside him, handing over a sheet of paper.
"Elizabeth is accompanying me." Red said, pouring himself a coffee. "It's complicated. She is needed. She has kindly agreed to help, enough said." he turned back to Dembe.
Red turned back to the others, placing a lid on his cup. He looked up to find three pairs of curious eyes looking at him.
Red slid the paper across to the team. "This is all the information you need for your flight, transportation and lodging," he ran his finger down the page as he spoke.
He wouldn't bother telling them he'd include a stipend for all their gaming and miscellaneous expenses. He just wasn't in the mood to argue about what was and wasn't ethical.
"My associate, Bruce, is expecting you. Leave out the fact you're FBI." Red clarified.
"W-Who are we?" Aram wished to get his story straight.
"Computer specialists." Red shrugged carelessly.
Samar smiled kindly, accustomed to Reddington's generosity, "That's above and beyond, you know."
"Elizabeth can't relax if she thinks you aren't being taken care of in proper fashion," Red interrupted.
Resetting his hat on his head, he smoothed the brim, smiling at the stunned trio. "Have a nice time at the award's ceremony and on your trip... you deserve it."
The three watched Reddington and Dembe walk to the elevator, speechless.
Red smiled happily as the door lifted... without a sound.
"Ah," he stepped into the box, "blessed silence. Thank you, John." he called out, "wherever you happen to be."
Red chuckled as the man's muffled voice replied somewhere from the recesses of a nearby wall.
"You're welcome, sir."
It was mans lot on life, waiting on a woman.
The wondrous creatures seemingly ran late; although his woman, Red would admit, was usually very punctual.
Tonight was special, so special preparations were the order of the day.
Red didn't really mind the interval spent with Lizzy when she was getting ready for some event.
He enjoyed watching his fresh-faced country-girl, sans make-up, transform herself into a sophisticated woman right before his eyes.
And too, it was a private time Lizzy shared with no other man. The conversations were often revealing and always pleasurable.
"Samar didn't object to Silas being her plus one?" Red raised his voice slightly for Lizzy to hear after the woman had entered the walk-in closet moments before, slipping into her dress for the awards ceremony.
"She tried to sound nonchalant and breezy about it," Liz giggled, "but I picked up an undercurrent like you would not believe. Those two!" she tsked. "It's so clear they're attracted to one another."
"Maybe I should offer the same advice Silas gave me when I was hesitant about approaching you." Red sat back, balancing his scotch in capable hands.
"What'd he say?" Liz was skeptical. "No wait, let me guess... you should toss my ass on the side of the road like a violently used tissue..."
Red's eyes shifted off towards the open closet door, grimacing accordingly.
"He said I wasn't worth the trouble." she continued, wriggling her dress down over her hips. "The idiot... he would have been out of a cushy job without me to 'protect'." she grimaced, air quoting.
Red smirked slightly, amused by Lizzy's description.
He'd bet good money Silas would describe the job as anything but cushy after what he had to contend with since stepping up to 'protect' the woman.
Liz stared at her reflection in the three-sided mirror, her expression a critical one. "You would have fired his ass, right? Had you ditched me on the side of the road, I mean..."
Red sighed lightly. "Yes, dear... of course."
"Good," Liz felt better, "there's a principle involved here somewhere."
"Though, I can't envision ditching you anywhere... I do grasp your meaning."
Liz's cheeks plumped as she heard Red's warm laughter.
"Silas actually advised me to grow a set and make a move on you." he idly swirled a finger along the rim of his tumbler.
"Silas did?!" Liz halted, shocked. No... she was stunned. "Silas?"
"So I followed his sage advice and here were are today," Red waved a hand about airily, "the rest is history."
Liz thought back to the memory of that first kiss... her tummy flip-flopping with the shot of adrenaline surging through her veins.
"When you make a move," she could still feel the warmth of his lips, the sensual pressure.
She touched her mouth, her eyes closing to the ghost impression of his lips moving against hers. "...It's a rather memorable experience."
Red's mouth twitched. "Yeah?" the tone her voice held pleased him. "What about when I made you come?" his voice lowered to a silky caress. "Was that memorable as well?"
Liz's cheeks warmed. "It was okay." she hoped her words did not reflect the trembling passion Red made her experience when he was in such a mood. "Although... there is a rule of thumb we women follow."
Red was all ears. "...Oh?"
"If a man can make you orgasm," she boldly ventured forward, "especially if no one removes any clothing, well... he's just a keeper, that's all."
Red's grin flashed. "I was unaware of such a rule."
"Oh, yes," Liz's hands shook as she placed her earrings. "It's true."
"Perhaps we should discuss this information in more detail, "he was looking forward to it in fact, "later... tonight."
"If I'm not too awfully tired," she tried for flippancy. It wasn't good to make it too easy for them, Maria had reminded.
"Save me a spot on your dance card..." Red's smile widened. "Though... the way you talk, I think I could possibly inspire you to perk up quickly enough."
Liz cautiously stepped about the doorframe, presenting herself for critique.
"I couldn't decide on a bracelet," Liz waited anxiously, "you're better at that than me."
"..Damn!" the breathy exclamation escaped Red's lips, his eyes devouring the delectable sight presented.
Liz fiddled with the strap of one bothersome heel. "...Do I look alright?"
Red's eyes drifted slowly about her beautiful frame, enjoying the trek as he went along.
The knee-length dark blue cocktail dress accentuated Lizzy in a modest, yet tantalizing silhouette. As she moved, the delicate lace overlay conforming to her frame highlighted her soft curves in a sensual light.
Following the clean lines, his rapt attention shifted to the deep 'V' of her neckline. The gauzy lace rested against the heavy swell of her breast, drawing attention to the stark white, plump mounds.
Allowing his gaze to drift, he focused on the scalloped edge skirt emphasizing the woman's bare legs. The sleek line looked so soft to the touch and shimmering against her strappy heels, he desperately wished to kiss the gentle slope.
The woman's sun-kissed cheekbones lifted sensually, drawing his gaze to the light blue eyes, framed in dark charcoal, sparkling incandescently in the warm light. His gaze lowered to the vision of her bow-shaped mouth tinted in the breathtaking hues of sunset.
Lizzy's dark chestnut hair nestled her nape in a thick, heavy bun. A soft halo of tendrils kissing her cheeks and neckline, made the woman appear almost otherworldly.
Red held himself in check as he neared the stunning vision.
Liz swallowed hard. "Well? What do you think?"
"That would entail messing up all this perfection." the man stood slowly; something in the way he was looking at her now made Liz retreat slightly.
"I best keep those thought's to myself for the moment."
Liz's insides quivered in response to that look and that husky, affected voice.
"I think," he reached, smoothing his hand over the gentle slope of her hip, "Joe will be the envy of every man at that damned gathering."
"Oh," Liz looked up, her warm eyes gentle on the man, "why is that?"
"Because you are the most beautiful creature I have ever laid my eyes upon," Red drew the woman closer, inhaling the soft scent of roses.
"I would imagine more than a few men will entertain the idea of finagling their way into your bed tonight."
"You mean," her lips pursed, "like you're doing, right now?"
"Yes," Red nodded staunchly, "that is exactly what I'm doing."
Red's heart thumped heavily in his chest when the woman's apple cheeks plumped with her amusement.
"I know what's under this slip of a dress," he fingered the light fabric, "all I want to do is... unveil its beauty."
His breath caught as the woman's dark framed eyes caressed his face, hesitating at his mouth.
"I don't have to go to that damn–"
Placing a gentle finger to the pout of her mouth, Red's lecherous gaze swept her body, "Hush... you're not allowing me to fully appreciate the imagery as I undress you with my eyes."
His eyes closed rapturously, giving Liz the impression... he truly was enjoying the fantasy.
"Your hands would probably work better..." she reminded.
He grunted approvingly, "I am attempting to do the gentlemanly thing here. You are not helping."
"I'll help you all you want." Liz fluttered her lashes coquettishly. "Just say the word."
"This isn't going as I envisioned." Red muttered, playfully smacking the lush little bottom, sending the woman on her way.
Pushing into his attention, Liz smiled as his warm palm conformed to her ass.
"You better be wearing panties." he warned huskily, caressing the wiggling handful.
"You better check...I forgot one way or other." she bit her lip innocently.
Red hesitated in his steps, his senses reeling over the flirtatious exchange.
Feeling the man falter at her side, Liz hurried in her stride, containing her titter of amusement at his expense. She rushed about the corner of the hall, only to pull up abruptly at the sight which greeted her.
"Whoa..." she blinked her awe.
Silas and Joe stood patiently, waiting to be noticed.
Joe's normally unruly hair was coifed within an inch of his life. The man's normally scruffy face was clean shaven of its days' worth of growth, allowing Liz sight of his ruggedly handsome baby face.
Silas, though... took her breath away! He trimmed his goatee and mustache to perfection, perhaps even shaped it for a more streamline appearance. A band engraved with an intricate Celtic design held his long hair back and in perfect order.
Not only did they smell divine, they looked... decent!
Both men wore expensive timepieces, which peeked out from beneath starched shirts. If Liz wasn't mistaken, each sported cufflinks which gleamed against the sharp, tailor fitted dark suits they wore.
The clean, sharp lines highlighted their healthy physique and imposing stature. There was a stiff formality about the men which screamed confidence, capability and superiority.
Red nodded approvingly, impressed by the men's efforts.
"Who the hell are you," Liz looked them up and down, grinning, "and what have you done with my grungy, scruffy guards."
"We thought we should look assertive and imposing," Silas snarked, "should you decide to come out with your tits on display again."
Joe grimaced at the man's side, groaning his woe. "Subtle..."
Red stepped, giving Lizzy a conspiratorial wink. "I think he meant to say, he knew he had to put in the effort..." he gave the guard a taunting smirk, "to explain why a beauty, like Samar, would give him the time of day."
Liz held her smile when her guard cut Red a rather scathing glare.
Ignoring the daggers being thrown, Red glanced between the two, nodding at some private thought.
"With that said, perhaps Joe should escort Samar?" he questioned aloud. "She would look more natural on his arm than Silas'... don't you think?" he asked Lizzy her thoughts on the matter.
Hastily glancing down at her clutch, Liz rifled through its contents, hiding her laughing eyes as Silas' belligerent attention shifted towards Joe.
"Is that what you think?" Silas' tone was deceptively mild.
Joe took a step backward, holding his hands up in a placating manner. "Hey, man... I know she's your chick...or that's your plan, anyway. I don't trespass."
Red canted his head, his look a meaningful one. "Well, you should get going. A lady doesn't like to be kept waiting... as you rarely frequent ladies, I thought I should advise of their preferences."
"Fuck you," Silas' gruff voice filled the foyer, "I'm getting the car."
Joe grinned as the door all but slammed behind the man. "You said Mojtabai is gonna be there tonight?"
"... Yeah," Liz confirmed. "Oh, damn!" she rushed back around the corner to the master.
Joe clapped his hands together, rubbing them vigorously, his smile growing. "Well... this is gonna be a fun evening."
Red watched the guy exit the foyer before going to check Lizzy's hasty departure.
"Silas won't wait long" she sighed, "I forgot my bracelet. Which one do you think? My Infinity or–"
She looked up, breaking off her mutterings. The suave, confident, smug look on Red's face mimicked the one her guards' wore just moments ago.
Red held a dangling bracelet from his fingers. The delicate string was almost identical to the one Dembe gifted her for her birthday, only this one was pure diamonds.
If one were to look closely at the cut of the stones and craftsmanship... it was obviously of the highest caliber quality.
"I thought a little memento of this evening was in order," Red looped the exquisite strand around her wrist, latching it with ease. "Congratulations, Lizzy."
Holding her eyes steadily, Red lifted her hand, kissing the delicate curve of her palm, flicking a teasing tongue over the sensitive flesh.
Withholding the urge to cup the small fingers around the bulge in his trousers, he hummed a questioning tone having caught sight of her ring.
"Should you wear this?" he kissed the slim finger where the impressive engagement ring sat proudly.
"Why should I not?" Liz frowned.
"It might raise all sorts of impertinent and intrusive questions." he subtly reminded, gently spinning the heavy weight to and fro.
"I can field anything thrown my way," she unconsciously curled her fingers inward, impeding any attempt to remove it. "I've been at this awhile now, you know."
"...Lizzy," Red didn't want a million questions she was not inclined to answer to cloud her evening.
"I'm still undercover." she lifted an obstinate chin, "I never know when an associate of yours will approach me. I need to remain alert and prepared for any eventuality."
"Well, sweetheart," Red continued, "if you're seen coming out of an FBI sanctioned banquet... I think it just might blow your cover."
"Silas has a back entrance staked out for me... don't be so paranoid."
The man lifted doubtful eyes.
"If what you said is true," she attempted a different tactic, "perhaps this will discourage men from potentially wishing to express interest in me." she waved the ring about, her manner and tone coy.
Red could argue, she could simply tell them to fuck off, but realized as Lizzy smoothed a hand down the front of her dress... he didn't really wish to argue the point tonight.
He didn't mind one bit she didn't wish to take off his ring. In fact, it pleasured him greatly she appeared attached to the adornment.
"I will not argue about this," he conceded.
"I didn't think you would." Liz leaned, kissing the man tenderly. "Keep your phone beside you." she winked, opening the door.
"I do have a few adult oriented calls to make after your departure, so..."
Lizzy's laughter echoed back, making the man feel wonderful he had been able to amuse.
"...Have a wonderful time." Red adopted a smile, hiding the anguish he felt inside.