Bounding down the stairs, Red and Dembe hurriedly fell into step. They reached the hall simultaneously, their steps hurried but not so much as to attract any undue attention.
Dembe's face alone alerted Red to the serious nature of the problem looming on the horizon.
Red could only guess the particulars, of course, sensing something terribly amiss where Ben Gilchrist was concerned.
Both men turned down an adjoining corridor, still in step... both pulling up short as a jarring crash echoed down the long hallway.
Exchanging subdued looks, both men continued onward.
"What the hell do you know!" Ben's voice, tight with aggravation and annoyance, yelled. "Did that bastard Costa rape your fiancé?"
Ben was in no mood to be placated, clearly.
Red entered the archway of the door, which comprised the entry for the room.
"You don't know nothing! Not one fucking thing!" Ben waved a full-auto Glock around, his movements jerky... his mood unstable.
"All I'm saying," Mark Donovan was never so glad to see the Calvary arrive, casting a relieved glance Red's way. "Is any problem has a solution. It can be resolved."
Mark inhaled a tremulous breath. "We're here for you, man." he motioned to the crowded room.
The various men who had strategically placed themselves at key points... patiently waited for the situation to play itself out... or better still, an opening to present itself.
"We can help, if you let us." Mark said quietly, his nerves shot.
"Nothing is hopeless, man." Francis' soft tone was a sympathetic one. "Even though, at the time, it may seem that it is."
"You're not thinking strait, lad, and why should you be?" Michael Fairfax motioned with his pipe. "You've had one hell of a shock, true," the man granted, "...give yourself time to work through the logistics before making any hasty decisions."
Ben stood, his face wet with tears, his shoulders slumped dejectedly. "I let her down. I wasn't there when..." he rubbed hard at his eyes, erasing the sudden visual, "she needed me most! And then, I walked away from her!" he choked on his own emotions. "I left her holding the damned bag, all by herself!"
"She could have told you, Ben." Francis saw both sides. "Something... anything. She could have let you in."
"Maybe not, Francis." Red intervened, his tone calmly collected when Ben's anger could have sky-rocketed again.
"Victims feel... difficult, conflicting things after the travesty Amy suffered through." Red explained. "She could have been blaming herself, thinking it was something she did... or did not do..." he trailed off.
"Costa would have made sure of it. He knew how to use a woman's decency against her." Michael continued the line of thought. "It's what kept so many of the woman silent, I suspect."
"You know, we all feel the same thing you're feeling." Mark needed it said. "If our woman had been..." he lifted a determined chin, "we would feel the desolation, the helplessness... the rage."
"Killing the bastard stopped the cycle of abuse, yeah," Francis stated bitterly, "but don't let him win in the end, Ben. This shit..." he waved minutely to the situation... the weapon in Ben's hand. "This is just another victory for Costa... if you let it be."
Sensing Ben's distress, Red felt an acute affinity. The guy was devastated, his tear-stained face a tortured mask of regret and indecision.
Red knew how he would feel if Costa had completed his sick objective where Elizabeth was concerned.
He fleetingly wondered if he might be found at the same stage Ben was now... had the unthinkable happened.
How could one shake the unsettling, disturbing presence of reality?
The truth Ben was facing now was... unfathomable.
Red rolled suddenly tense shoulders. He was very likely not the best candidate to help Ben confront his demons.
Holding his hands aloft, ever so carefully approaching his distraught friend, Francis tried again to reach the guy.
"We're here to help. What can we do?" Francis frowned.
Mark threw a surreptitious glance Red's way.
A chaotic churning in Red's gut increased as a deeper empathy with his young, troubled friend developed.
His eyes aligned with Ben's haunted one.
"Come to gloat," Ben spat his indignation.
Experiencing the rage himself, just that morning, Red readied himself for the fight he knew was coming... willingly becoming a target on which to focus.
"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Red narrowed dangerous eyes, controlling his own temper.
"Are you here to remind me how you did what I couldn't!" Ben hissed.
"I'm here to make you see reason," Red countered. "Hopefully."
"Are you fucking kidding me!" Ben snapped.
"None of us could see this coming," Red continued, undaunted. "It's no more your fault, than it is mine... or theirs." he motioned to his contemporaries and everyone else on the property.
Red wasn't sure he believed those words. His instincts told him Edward was trouble, and he was right. He should have done something more, but this was not the time to dwell.
He had not addressed the issue, and now had to deal with the consequences of his inaction.
"You don't fucking believe that!" Ben paced, running an anxious hand through his mussed hair.
"I wish our predecessors had shared what they knew about the bastard," Red granted.
"Well, they didn't!" Ben raged. "Did they!"
"No." Red shook a woeful head. Their omission... their neglect led to countless victims. "Though, I understand why they didn't." he did, to a certain extent.
While he cared for Ben and the pain he felt, Red admitted to himself, his priorities this morning, and even now, were for Elizabeth only.
Even then, as much as he loved Elizabeth, he didn't know if he could live with the guilt of not acting and preventing yet another Edward Costa from happening again. He didn't think Elizabeth could, either.
"We should have seen the signs," Ben ranted. "Stopped the fucker in his tracks... clear and simple!"
"We all agree on that point," Michael calmly replied.
"I warned Elizabeth, it didn't stop the inevitable." Red countered. "Edward believed himself to be invincible and was determined to prove that."
Though difficult, Red allowed the conversation to evolve naturally, hopefully giving Ben time to process.
"I didn't think..." Ben lost himself to his own thoughts, "Amy was so quiet... unassuming." his frown deepened. "I didn't believe anyone took notice of her."
Red could follow Ben's line of thinking. In his business, he met numerous spouses who married into a life they were unaware even existed.
"Liz is a beautiful, vibrant woman... she draws attention." Ben's frown deepened.
Scowling hard, Red glared at the man opposite him as the words, the implication, took shape.
"What the hell is that supposed to mean?"
Swallowing convulsively, Ben crossed his arms defensively over his chest, shutting himself off.
"Let me guess," Red snarled dangerously, "that smile Elizabeth offered Edward was an invitation, or perhaps that form-fitting gown was such an enticement... she was just asking for it!" he roared his fury.
Flinching, Ben retreated a step from the power Red emitted.
"I don't care if Elizabeth was walking around fucking naked!" Red bellowed. "She didn't ask to be forcefully raped by that evil, sadistic son-of-a-bitch!"
Wavering in his stance, Ben's eyes shifted to the floor as the full force of Red's wrath focused directly on him.
"You have no right to draw her into this shit!" Red seethed. "I was on the other end of the line when that bastard was hurting her! I heard her words! Her fear... her loathing!"
Francis ducked his chin, squeezing his eyes tight as Red's words produced disturbing visuals.
"I'm pretty fucking sure Elizabeth said stop!" Red hissed through clenched teeth. "I'm sure they all did!"
Turning in profile, Ben's jaw pulsed erratically, his red eyes anguished.
"Don't tell me you wouldn't be in the same place if it happened to Elizabeth." Ben squeezed his fingers tight around the weapon in his hand.
"I wouldn't be here if Edward raped Elizabeth." Red replied evenly.
Red damn well knew that word was like a knife in the heart. He tried to avoid saying it himself until Kaplan forced the issue and made him address reality.
Had it been painful? Yes.
Had it been necessary? Most definitely.
"You would have eaten a bullet, am I right?" Ben looked to Red, hopefully finding an ally to his pain.
"No," Red held the man's eyes easily, "the thought of leaving Elizabeth to face that pain alone is unconscionable and unforgivable."
Ben's frowned deepened at the words.
"I may be lots of things," Red's low voice hardened, "but I'm not a coward. I didn't take you for one either."
"Says the man whose fiancé did not get raped." Ben sneered coldly.
"I see, so because Edward raped your fiancé," Red eyed the man belligerently, "it's okay for you to wallow in your misery rather than be supportive to the actual victim in all this?"
Ben flinched as the stinging, truthful words hit him square in the face.
"Sounds like to me," Red taunted the guy, "you care more about yourself than the woman you profess to love." he hurled the accusation.
Running a jerky hand through his disheveled hair, Ben's parlor paled.
Francis tensed as Red stepped forward, a menacing scowl on his face.
"Is that what happened?" Red seethed. "Did things with Amy suddenly get too hard, without warning, so you tucked tail and ran?"
Averting his eyes, Ben guiltily looked at the floor, knowing the truth when he heard it. "One day, everything had been fine... the next," he sighed heavily, "Amy couldn't stand to be around me."
"I can see why," Red continued the mental beating. "You gave up on her when she needed you most." he stuck the knife in, twisting it. "Considering what you've said so far... I'm surprised she bothered to see you at all, you selfish bastard."
Grimacing, Francis looked between the two men, waiting for an explosion. He just wasn't sure from which direction it would come.
"With that said," Red seethed, "unlike you...I support and cherish my partner." he rubbed salt in the wound. "You dare minimize Elizabeth's trauma again," his brittle tone warned, "I won't hesitate to put a bullet in you myself."
Rubbing a rough hand on his jawline, Michael hoped in this instance... Ben kept his mouth shut. Reddington may have come down here with good intentions, but those were rapidly falling to the wayside.
"You don't know the hell she has experienced these last few..." Red trailed off, shaking his head angrily.
Blowing out a breath from pursed lips, Danny leaned against the wall, folding his arms.
Sharing a look with the man, Red scratched agitated fingers against his scalp, damning his lack of forethought and control. He was talking too fucking much, saying the wrong things.
It was rare he related anything so personal in nature with associates. Antonio and Francis were the exceptions, but even then, he was guarded.
Blaming the emotional distress experienced in the last few hours and lack of sleep, Red shrugged aside his lack of discretion, hoping for the best.
Glancing between Red and Daniel, Francis frowned at the silent communication he just witnessed.
Recalling their first days here, specifically the night of the fight with Horace, Francis recalled Red mentioning something about Lizzy and her injuries, and that the statement had left him confused.
"...Red," Francis stepped into the man's field of vision. "What the hell aren't you telling us?"
Encouraging Red to share the relevant events, Daniel gave a subtle nod of his head.
Taking a bracing breath, Red shifted his attention to Francis.
"The night of your party a couple months ago," Red began, "after I returned Elizabeth home and left to attend my meeting with you..."
Francis remembered it well, for Red had not shown up. It was uncharacteristic of Red to not call.
"Elizabeth was attacked," Red leveled his gaze, "... by Carver."
Images of the dark haze of night, splashes of red... Lizzy's broken body laying on the cold floor, inundated Red, even now. The stench of blood, sweat, tears... it all came rushing back in the blink of an eye.
"What?" Mark gasped his shock, his mouth falling agape.
"What the... hell," Francis glanced sightlessly about, as though trying to comprehend the words.
The young man grasped for any coherent thought, aside from the fact, Red obviously shared that information with Daniel... but not him.
"How," Ben frowned, stopping in his tracks, "how did she get away?"
Red watched the man lower the gun in his hand, unconsciously sitting it on the tabletop beside him.
Walking a few steps to his right, Red wasn't surprised Ben followed his movement, completely missing Michael step in and palm the weapon.
"She didn't." Red shakily exhaled. "That fucker cut her... broke her arm, ankle."
Francis grimaced, not only for the terror Lizzy faced that night... but that he had actually made a joke about her clumsiness, which led to the supposed accident.
Granted, he knew Lizzy would forgive him for the crass, ill-timed joke; but he still felt horrible to have made light of what occurred.
"Something felt... off," Red remembered he felt unsettled before he even left Elizabeth, "I went back to get her."
Like a horror movie, the memories flickered through his mind.
"I got to the front step and," he swallowed, "Elizabeth screamed. I came in just as he was fleeing out the back."
"You didn't catch him?" Mark scowled. It was unusual Red didn't at least maim those who wronged him. But where Elizabeth was concerned? "He's still out there... alive?"
In Red's world, were anyone to cross Elizabeth... they wouldn't be just killed, but given a one-way ticket to hell.
"She was bleeding... hurting so badly," Red fought to shake the images, "Dembe followed," he chuckled a dark laugh after a brief second's hesitation. "I guess I can delegate if necessity calls."
"Why didn't you say something?" The omission stunned Ben.
Red's jaw worked restlessly. "Elizabeth meant more than my need for revenge."
Blinking rapidly, he felt his eyes sting with heat. "Even still, I wish I had taken just a moment to fire my weapon, to say, I at least tried."
"No, man..." Ben reasoned, "you did the right thing."
"Elizabeth was in pain, because of who I am." Red felt sickened by the thought. "You're lucky, Ben." he closed his eyes, angered with himself even now. "I beat myself up for days that I let that bastard get away, that I failed to kill him." he confessed. "I failed to protect her then... and now."
"You didn't fail me, Red." Liz's quiet voice coming from behind him. denied any wrongdoing on Red's part.
Dammit... Red's head fell back, a heavy sigh escaping in a tremulous breath.
Grimacing, Red remained still, keeping his back to the woman as he tried to quickly compose himself.
Red tensed as the sensation of Lizzy's presence neared his position until he felt the gentle and comforting caress of her hand smooth the tight muscles in his back.
"I did... I have," Red countered bitterly. "That psychopath is still after you, Lizzy."
"Why?" Ben scowled. "I don't understand that part? What has he to gain?"
Slowly turning to face the woman, Red's pained eyes fell on Lizzy's small, upturned face. The level of understanding and trust he found in her soft gaze stole his breath away.
Elizabeth trusted him to find Carver and keep her safe.
Searching Red's face religiously, Liz hesitantly inched closer until he opened himself to her... pulling her close into the sanctuary of his arms.
"She's the one who got away." Red rested his cheek on Lizzy's crown. "She's a challenge."
Shivering her revulsion, Liz tightened her arms about Red's waist. "We'll get him, Red." she whispered her belief.
"If I let Edward win," Red brought the conversation full circle, "if I killed myself..."
As expected, Lizzy startled at the words, her concerned gaze hastily seeking his own. Rubbing a soothing hand down her spine, Red comforted her the only way possible at the moment.
"Lizzy would be alone, unprotected and vulnerable." Red lied, for he planned for Lizzy's protection in case of his unexpected demise... but they didn't have to know that.
"What would happen if you weren't here to ensure Amy remained protected?" Red questioned.
Shifting guilty eyes, Ben's frown deepened. He flushed red, unable to meet Elizabeth's gentle gaze. "I.. I haven't seen–"
"If you're suggesting you don't have a protective detail shadowing Amy," Red scoffed, "you're a bald-faced liar."
Leaning heavily onto the table before him, Ben lowered his head, his features dour. "I haven't seen her. But yeah, she's safe now... after the fact."
"Lizzy doesn't just need my protection," Red trailed off, softly kissing the woman's temple, "she needs my support... my love."
Liz burrowed into Red's hold, laying her head against Red's shoulder, understanding his end goal.
"Amy needs the same from you..." Red murmured.
Groaning painfully, Ben lifted bloodshot eyes. "She won't talk to me."
"Let me talk to her," Liz quietly offered. "Let me explain..." she shrugged wanly. "I might be able to reach her. I would like to try, Ben."
"Give Elizabeth a chance, Ben." Red coaxed. "Give us a chance, and we may get Amy returned to you... where she belongs."
Leaving a now calmed and sedated Ben in Mark and Michael's capable hands, Red escorted Elizabeth to their room.
Dembe and Matthew trailed at a discrete distance, allowing the couple their privacy.
"What were you doing there?" Red muttered softly, gently clasping the soft hand in his.
"I thought maybe I could be of assistance." Liz shrugged.
"One of these days," Red shook his head, "you're going to have to stay put, like I ask." he grumbled. "You could have been hurt if the situation had been different."
"There's few things that rattle Dembe to such a degree," Liz reasoned.
Red remained silent, listening to the woman.
"Matthew also hinted the problem was one of a... personal nature." Liz confessed.
"Pry it out of him, did you?" Red mumbled, knowing Lizzy's knack for sweetening up her guards when it suited her purpose.
"You'd be surprised how powerful a weapon one of my gin and tonics can be to loosen lips." she stated proudly.
"Matthew wouldn't drink on duty." Red groused knowingly.
"Regardless of the way I came about the information," Liz continued on, "I didn't see the harm in offering my support. You needed me there."
"I could have gotten through to Ben without–"
"I'm glad we helped Ben," Liz interrupted, "but I meant, you... needed me there."
Normally, Red might refute her assumptions, but the truth was... he wasn't that upset Lizzy graced him with her presence.
Both incidents of the day left Red feeling ragged and drained. When Lizzy came to him, he just didn't have it in him at that moment to put on a brave face or have even strength in reserve from which to draw upon.
Lizzy gave him everything required in that moment.
"A moment, gentlemen," Red acknowledged their shadows, ushering Lizzy inside their room.
Nodding his understanding, Dembe leaned against a nearby wall before continuing his conversation with Matthew.
"What aren't you telling me?" Liz asked in the quiet of their room.
Hesitating in his steps, Red held the woman's gaze before inclining his head. Continuing on his trek to the bar, he gathered his thoughts.
"Since your encounter with Carver," Red poured them a drink, "all his victims bear a striking resemblance to... you."
"Where do you think he is?" Liz took a steadying breath, straightening her shoulders; the news devastating to hear.
"Possibly, Arizona." Red confessed. "A trusted contact related there was a hit fitting Carver's signature in his area a couple days ago."
Handing Elizabeth her wine, Red sat beside her. "Though, he could also be in Florida, as there was a kill found there, as well."
"Why didn't you tell me?" Liz asked softly.
"We had enough going on here, Lizzy." Red exhaled a long breath.
Liz canted her head, nodding slowly.
"There wasn't really anything to tell." Red continued. "They didn't have a visual on him, only fresh proof of his activities."
Leaning back into the cushions, Red rubbed his tight neck. "I have people all over the globe hunting that bastard." he shared his pursuit. "I just haven't found the one that will put a nail in that asshole's coffin."
"We'll find him," Liz was sure. "You'll find him."
"I wish I had your faith."
"You're the only one invested enough to find him," she stated a fact. "You care enough to find him, Red. Nothing will stop you." she knew better. "You don't know how to quit."
Staunchly holding his gaze, Red reluctantly nodded after a moment, understanding the underlying meaning behind her words.
Yes, he wanted to kill Carver for the harm he inflicted on Lizzy... but he also wasn't averse to exacting revenge for the sicko's other victims, either.
"Now, tell me about Amy." Liz turned to Red fully, tucking her legs beneath her, settling in more comfortably. "What do I need to know."
Providing a break down on the information he gathered to date from Ben and Daniel, he trailed off, providing his phone and the woman's number.
Taking a bracing breath, Liz geared herself up for the challenge ahead.
"I know you're going to take this the wrong way–"
"You need privacy," Red assumed as much. It would be a difficult enough conversation without him sitting there, breathing down her neck.
"I'll be on the smoke deck," he pocketed Lizzy's phone. "When you need me... call."
Matthew returned to his post, guarding Lizzy, for Michael had retired to his wife's side for the night.
Elizabeth was safe for the time being.
Red retreated to the smoke deck where he found Mark and Danny nursing drinks and involved in quiet conversation.
Ordering his own refreshment, Red sat, lighting up a provided cigar... exhaling a long, heavy sigh.
"You think Amy will listen to Lizzy?" Mark asked, breaking the silence.
"Lizzy can be very compassionate," Red slowly tapped his fingers on the armrest, "and in this case, totally understanding of the emotional turmoil Amy suffered. If anyone can get through, it will be Elizabeth."
Red was also very aware Elizabeth had psychology training, and was a woman who dealt with more than enough blows in her life; she would know how to empathize with someone.
"She can also be quite persistent when she wants something, too." Red smiled slightly.
"Yes, I couldn't help but notice," Mark chuckled, "she persuaded Matthew; a seasoned and unbribable agent, to escort her to our location."
"You think once we marry," Red's eyes twinkled, "she'll actually obey me when I say... stay put."
"Oh, get real," Daniel chortled, "though, it's alright for you to indulge and daydream about such a fantasy, I suppose."
"She'll offer a decent enough pretense though, I wager." Mark bolstered the guy's spirits. "If... she is in the mood to do so, mind you."
"You'd hate it anyway," Daniel slouched back into his seat, rolling the ash from his cigar, "if she brown-nosed you all the time," the man canted his head, a curious tilt to his brow. "I am speaking metaphorically, and not physically, of course."
Shifting a lackadaisical look the man's way, Red shook his head slightly for the sexual undertone. "You can take the cow-chip out of the city, but not out of the cowboy."
Muffling his low snort of amusement in his loose fist, Mark tittered quietly when Danny's brows lifted innocently.
"What? What does that even mean?" Danny inquired innocently.
"It means, you're full of shit." Red grinned, relaxing somewhat. Biting the inside of his cheek, he staunchly returned to his drink.
"I would imagine," Daniel continued undaunted, "she would be very proficient at stroking your–"
"Thank you, Daniel..." Red offered the man an impatient look. "Your insight is always appreciated... now, shut up."
Mark's husky laughter filled the space, allowing Red the chance to grin in response.
"He is right you know," Mark gestured for a passing waiter, "Francis told me all about Lizzy's revoking your phone privileges that one time, and that you enjoyed her... stringent methods."
"I prefer to call it, an intervention." Red enjoyed the cherished memory, once reminded.
"Call it what you will," Mark tittered. "Lizzy grounded your old ass, good."
"What?" Daniel laughed, curiously looking between the two men. "What happened? I don't know this one... do I?"
Mark leaned towards his friend, ready to share the gossip.
"Elizabeth intercepted one of Red's shippers calling out of Warsaw, I gather, after numerous calls interrupted some precious 'alone time'." Mark gleefully related the tale. "She told him to get his shit together, and fix the problem."
"Nothing wrong with that." Danny shrugged.
"Oh, I agreed, wholeheartedly." Mark did. "Especially when she said, if this guy couldn't wipe his ass without Red's help, maybe Red should hire someone who could when he returned... in three days' time."
"Is that what all that kerfuffle was about a couple weeks ago?" Daniel vaguely recalled the incident. "When the shipping lines went batty?"
"The story spread like wildfire," Mark seemed tickled by the tale. "I thought it was a joke until I tried calling Red myself." he hooked a thumb Red's way. "Couldn't get anything but an automated voice for three whole days."
"Neglecting the little lady, were you Red?" Daniel grinned, blowing smoke in the air. "Or was Francis right... you are pussy whipped. How the mighty have fallen!"
While Red would normally refute the notion, he was whipped... he had to admit, Lizzy did have him wrapped around her finger, to a certain extent anyway.
"I had been shot," Red cleared up any misconception. "Kept working like I always do..."
As much as they wished to give Red the business, they reluctantly admired the fact. The guy could never be accused of over-coddling himself.
Red Reddington did not do recovery time.
"Elizabeth thought I was pushing myself," Red smiled wryly, "... and took matters in her own hands."
"Was she right?" Mark asked the rhetorical question. "Were you pushing yourself?"
"Well, I fell asleep before she finished bitching at me." Red grinned slowly. "Which is odd for me, I do so love hearing Elizabeth go on a fiery tirade."
"You, sir, are a glutton for punishment." Daniel knew well enough. "Or just a plain masochist."
"Arguing is healthy for a couple's relationship," Red leaned, extracting the phone vibrating in his pocket, "...not as healthy as the part where they kiss and make up, mind you."
Flicking the phone open, Red focused his attention away from the men snickering across the way... and instead on the caller.
"I would like to speak with you..." Liz spoke quietly... tiredly. "When you have a moment."
"I will be right there." Red stubbed his cigar, finishing his drink as he stood.
"You'll let us know what happened?" Mark's smile fell away, trailing after the man heading for the entrance. "We are invested."
"I will..." Red said, striding through the door without a backward glance.
Utilizing the staff hallway, Red embraced the quiet afforded him as he traversed the short distance between areas.
Pushing through the doorway at the end of the corridor, he palmed the decorative spindle of the staircase just as a hand curved about his bicep.
Stopping in his tracks, he frowned at the invasion into his space. Glancing up, the hand became an arm, then a person as it stepped from the shadows.
"Is she pregnant?" The elegant accent softened the brusque inquiry.
"Erica..." Red sighed, lowering his arm out of her reach.
"Is she?" Erica searched his face. "I saw you with her today...how you touched her." the woman's hand fluttered over her own abdomen, before gracefully letting her hands fall to her side.
"Elizabeth is carrying your child," the woman assumed. "Is that why you feel you must offer marriage?"
Susan's concern and caring for Elizabeth was one thing; an ex-lover butting into his affairs was another.
"I don't see where that is any of your business." Red stepped to the woman's side, only to be caught once more in her hold.
"You can take care of the child without–"
Glaring at the hand curved to his elbow, Red lifted stern eyes. "I would marry Elizabeth, regardless. What the hell, Erica!"
"I know you're angry with me..." The delicate pale complexion had always fascinated Red, as did the large brown catlike eyes.
"Erica, I honestly..." Red trailed off, scratching a rough hand across his forehead.
Taking a breath, he cooled his temper. It was not in his nature to, intentionally or unintentionally, be cruel or dismissive to past lovers.
While he would rather be elsewhere at this moment, he could take a moment to offer a sense of closure where there had been none.
"For obvious reasons, we have both moved on," Red offered a modicum of diplomacy, "taken different paths. I'm happy where my path has taken me. That is all I'm prepared to say on the subject."
"We were happy." Erica replied softly.
"We were," Red didn't discount the good memories, "but it wasn't enough, was it?" he held her gaze easily.
Inhaling a shaky breath, Erica's eyes glittered with moisture, more than understanding Red's reasoning for ending their acquaintance.
"Remember that next time, Erica." Red quietly advised. "Don't act impulsively, especially over money, or you very well could lose a good thing."
"I all ready did." she murmured softly.
Red couldn't help but feel badly for the woman. While he wasn't sure of her affection for him, he knew how he felt in those early days when he began falling in love with Elizabeth.
At first, it had been frustrating when she repeatedly forgave Tom. Then one day, he realized... how very much it hurt to see them together.
If Erica's demeanor meant anything, she felt that pain now.
"I am sorry," Red quietened his tone, "I truly am, but Elizabeth is..." he thought how to say it gently.
"I know." Erica lifted her chin, offering a wane smile. "You love her."
"I do, yes." Red's earnest tone spoke volumes. "I need to go." he tenderly squeezed her arm. "I hold no hard feelings. I hope you feel the same... be safe, Erica."
Pushing through the doorway, Red closed the door, spotting Elizabeth on the couch. The woman was blotting her eyes with a tissue, sniffling quietly.
"Lizzy..." he headed for the woman, a concerned look on his face. "Are you all right?"
"I'm okay." she gifted him with a small smile. "Amy is... she's so sweet and...so lonely."
"What happened?" Red sat, tucking the blanket more securely around Lizzy's legs.
"I convinced her to come here." Liz clasped Red's hand, stroking his calloused fingers. "But I said... we would come get her."
"All right," Red drawled. "Where is she?"
"She's in Louisiana." Liz smiled weakly, shrugging. "I'd say it was kismet, that she's so close."
"Did you tell her about... earlier?" Red grimaced.
"No, no," Liz shook her head. "No, I said Ben just found out about...what happened, and he was deeply regretful for not understanding or being more supportive. Had he known..." she trailed off.
"She really didn't tell him?" Red felt admittedly curious.
"No," Liz's face fell. "She was scared and distraught..."
Red leaned, placing his lips to Lizzy's forehead, holding the affection a breath. "And you... how do you feel?" he asked, his voice soft and concerned.
"I'm... I'm getting there." she moved closer, resting against Red's chest. "I'll be okay."
Stroking his hands along Lizzy's back, Red felt his tension ease the more the woman relaxed against him.
"Did you clue, Dembe?" he murmured, unwilling to interrupt the quiet between them just yet.
"We should leave out in an hour, he says." Liz shrugged, handing Red the needed information. "Dembe said it's a quick flight."
"A woman that can be ready on such short notice?" he teased, pleased to see Lizzy smile softly. "This girl I have to meet." Red's brow furrowed, something nagging at his brain.
Opening the door to the jet, Red felt the instant tackiness of the humid Louisiana heat drift inside.
Having pushed the troubling thoughts that something was just not right out of his head completely... he refocused his attention, preferring to spend quiet time with Elizabeth, worry free.
Glancing around the airfield, aside from airport employees, he didn't see much of anyone; let alone the passenger they were there to pick-up.
"You think she changed her mind?" Red stepped back into the cool cabin, leaning against the nearby bar.
Liz glanced at her watch. "We're a little early. She could have just got caught in traffic."
Walking the length of the plane, Red turned, retracing his steps.
"Nervous?" Liz watched the man's short trek.
"I feel naked without Dembe." he teased. "No, I'm just thinking... wondering, if I should have left Ben."
"Mark said Ben was still out for the count." Liz attempted to ease the man's concern.
"Still," Red resumed pacing, "I want to get back, just in case." he confessed. That old unease returned slightly.
"I know," Liz clasped his hand in passing, stopping the man in his tracks. "It appears," she glanced past the man, "your wish to depart this fair township may be granted."
Red turned, watching a cab near the jet and slow as it came closer, through the window of the jet.
Liz pushed from her seat as a woman exited the car. The driver unloaded a suitcase and carry-on from the trunk.
"I'll greet her," Liz offered, "and you can inform Edward..." she grimaced, "the pilot, we'll be ready to go in a few moments."
"Oh, my God," Red ran a rough hand across his disbelieving face, "what the hell are the chances?"
Thankful for the reprieve, Red did as suggested, taking the time to inform the pilot; for the duration of this trip... they would be calling him 'Bill'.
Exiting the plane, Liz smiled as the petite woman slowly approached the plane.
"Hello," Liz held her hand aloft, meeting the woman on the stairs, taking the larger suitcase in hand. "I'm Elizabeth, you must be Amy."
Taking her hand, Amy smiled softly in return. "It's nice to meet you."
"Come on up." Liz showed Amy the way. "We'll get underway."
Escorting the woman inside, they stowed her luggage before Liz offered her a tour of the plane.
"Please, make yourself comfortable." Liz gestured to the seating options. "Would you like a drink?"
"Oh, no," Amy fidgeted, sitting her purse close to her side, "don't trouble yourself."
Liz graciously did not remark on the woman's nervous demeanor, only wished to put her at ease.
"It's no trouble at all," Liz smiled, heading to the bar herself. "I was going to make us one for the flight."
She glanced up as the cockpit door opened and Red slowly emerged. "Lizzy, we'll be leaving in a minute." he said, stilling in place, waiting for an introduction.
"Amy," Liz stepped around from behind the bar, "this is my fiancée, Raymond."
Keeping his arms at his sides, Red waited until Amy offered a hand in greeting.
"It's a pleasure to meet you." he smiled warmly, taking a step back.
"Thank you for coming to get me," Amy smiled wanly. "I appreciate the..."
"It was our pleasure," Red assured their guest.
Liz artfully offered Red his tumbler, breaking Amy's tension like a pro. "You sure you don't want anything? We have sodas, chips, chocolate..."
"Ovaltine..." Red quipped to put the woman at ease.
"You know what," Amy sat upright, smiling at her hosts, "maybe a little liquid courage wouldn't be an awful idea."
Turning on her heel, Liz called back. "Anything in particular?"
"Rum and coke?" Amy shrugged, unsure what was available.
"You got it." Pulling down the needed items, Liz poured the alcohol, then handed Amy a small can of Coke, drawing a soft giggle from their guest. "So you can do it to taste."
Watching their ease of interaction, Red knew Amy would be okay... especially with Lizzy there to help smooth the way.
"Sir," the pilot stuck his head around the door, "we're ready for take-off."
"Thank you, Bill." Red smiled at the man, his face tightly composed. "Ladies, buckle up."
Riding in the front with Steven, Red took the time to gather his thoughts as the ladies chattered in the back seat.
Sharing small talk with the young man, Red was both pleased to hear Steven would indeed be their waiter that evening, but also concerned when he learned Mark approved the boy's request for overtime.
Red would have to have a more in-depth discussion with Mark soon about the boy's life status. Overtime took time away from the kid's sister.
Red suddenly wondered over the location of the little girl.
Normally, Red would ask, but with the ladies in the back seat, he did not wish to embarrass the young man with personal questions.
Pulling up to the hotel entrance, Red pushed from the car, waving off the valet with a kind gesture, and a crisp twenty, simply because he could.
Opening Lizzy's door, he took her hand to assist her out of the car.
Mark arrived on scene looking like the epitome of every GQ cover model Red had ever seen. Red was tickled when Amy's eyes widened with flustered surprise.
"Hello, I'm Mark Donovan, owner of the hotel and Ben's friend." Mark smiled warmly at the hesitant woman. "You must be Amy Reese."
"Hello..." Amy hung back slightly beside Liz, "it's nice to meet you."
"You're gonna love it here," Liz gushed, "this hotel is luxurious!" she beamed at their host, waving Amy to follow her. "I'm sure you'd like to get settled in and freshen up before dinner... and check out all the amenities."
"I have you checked in, and your room waiting." Mark gallantly waved the ladies forward. "Dembe here is waiting to escort you and Elizabeth." he smiled widely at the silent, stoic man.
Thanking Steven for the smooth ride, Red fell in step beside Mark.
"Red, I'm just going to show Amy where the store is." Liz pointed behind her. "We'll be just a second."
"Sure you will," Red teased. "I'll have an old man's beard before I see you two again! Need a credit card?"
"I have it..." Liz giggled happily, flouncing away with Amy in tow.
Red gestured to the elevator bank. "We'll be here waiting."
Falling in step behind the ladies, Dembe trailed them at a discrete distance, sending an ever-patient glance his friend's way.
Watching Lizzy pointing out the shops as they went, Red inclined his head towards the man beside him.
"All is well?" Mark enquired about the status on Red's end.
"For now." Red nodded. "Ben... where is he?"
"Still sleeping," Mark said, "but he's stirring." he reached, unclipping an object from his waist. "Here..." he handed Red a small handheld radio, "if we're needed, we're all on the same channel."
"Who's, we all?" Red took it, securing it to his own waist under his jacket.
"Dembe, Danny, Michael and Francis." Mark ticked the names off. "And the most important, I have one, of course."
"Where did you put Amy?" Red enquired.
"Two doors down, directly across from you," Mark said. "I figured, she would feel more secure with Lizzy near."
"Well, to tell the truth, I think this is the best route for those two kids to–"
"Why didn't you fucking tell me!" Francis barged on scene, having angrily stalked up to the men. "About Lizzy... Carver!" he demanded.
"Keep your voice down, dammit!" Red hissed.
"I could have had people looking for that fucker this entire time!" Francis lowered his tone, but not his temper.
"It's my problem." Red muttered tightly.
"That's bullshit!" Francis railed against such 'bullshit logic'. "Lizzy's my best-friend and–"
"Yes, well, back then... I didn't know who I could trust," Red deflected, then winced inwardly, knowing there was no one more trustworthy than Francis.
"If you didn't trust me with Lizzy," Francis countered, "you wouldn't have let me near her." he scowled his exasperation. "But you apparently trust Daniel Courtland with this whole sordid mess!"
Hearing the hurt in Francis' tone, Red sighed. There was no one; aside from Dembe, he trusted more with not only his life... but Lizzy's.
"I told Daniel right after Ben killed Edward." Red attempted to soothe the young man's ego. "He was there... it just came out."
"I don't understand why you waited so long." Francis crossed his arms over his chest. "That was shitty of you, and you fucking know it!"
"Francis, at the time, all I cared about was Elizabeth." Red told the truth. "By the time we got here, I had been thinking of asking for your assistance."
"You've had ample opportunity!" Francis vented.
"You're right," Red agreed. "I should have taken the time." he drew in a calming breath. "I have no excuses, just an explanation."
In the distance; Lizzy, Dembe and Amy emerged from one of the shops.
Red subtly gestured to Dembe for him to stall, or even escort them from the area, hoping like hell the man understood the silent message.
Dembe walked ahead of the duo, gesturing to a nearby elevator before escorting the ladies inside.
"I can't believe it took Ben putting a gun to his head to make you spill your guts!" The fact bothered Francis on many levels. "That's gratitude for you!"
Mark scratched his head, bewildered. "...What?"
Francis waved the issues aside, attempting to continue his tirade.
"I realized, none of you had to be in that room with Ben, but you were... supporting him and ready to help." Red glanced pointedly at Francis. "You have also made Lizzy happy, for which I'm grateful."
"Okay, it's done... in the past, but now, you have to let us in." Mark broke the tension. "Let us help you for a change."
"I would appreciate the assistance." Red admitted.
Mark alone had connections no one else did, Red knew that well enough. Francis? He had the army to back his thirst for revenge.
Hearing the sincerity, Mark held his hand out, shaking Red's. "And you didn't even choke on the words."
Shifting his attention to Francis, Red's countenance softened, finding the young man still more than upset. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you, Francis. I apologize..."
Tightening his arms, Francis jerked a tight nod. "I'm going to check on Ben."
Red cracked his neck as the boy spun on his heel and walked away without a backward glance.
Dammit...The day kept getting better and better.
Aside from the fact Red knew it would upset Lizzy if she learned tension existed between him and her best friend. He'd have to find a minute to explain his omission wasn't personal, especially given his long history with Francis Holbrook.
He also had to gauge Francis' level of forgiveness. If he was this upset about the news of Carver, how would he feel about their omission to confide in him concerning Lizzy's true vocation?
"Give him time to cool off," Mark clapped Red on the shoulder. "He'll realize he would have taken the same precautions, were he in your shoes."
Clapping his hands together, Mark smirked at the man beside him, the guy had apparently moved on. "Now, what's this about Liz being pregnant?"
Groaning his exasperation, Red pawed Mark's nape, steering him towards the sundry store.
"Oww," Mark winced, cricking his neck.
"I have a better topic, you tell me why Steven is working so much overtime," Red grumbled his discontent. "And more importantly, where is his sister while he's working these numerous late hours."
Mark's discrete inquiry into Steven's personal life took only a few well-placed twenties to bribe the details out of the staff.
Knowing his people loved a sad, tale-of-woe story... a juicy piece of gossip traveled the pipe-line faster than the newest Japanese monorail.
Everyone knew everyone's business, inside and out.
Mark reported back to Red before the older man had finished his drink at the bar.
"His jalopy broke down... its being fixed even as we speak."
"At my expense." Red offered willingly.
Mark scowled. "I think not!" he waved the gesture aside. "Tomorrow morning his sister will be ensconced in our private daycare... save your amazement for someone who needs accolades. I've got a private party to set-up for. Go bother Elizabeth and Dembe for a spell."
Red watched the guy stalk jauntily away. He held his smile, paid the tab... and exited the bar.
"Everything all right?" Surprised to find Lizzy and Dembe sequestered in the hallways in front of their room, Red headed for them.
"Amy has our numbers should she need us and is secure in her room." Liz gestured to the door just opposite theirs. "Your end?"
"Francis is upset." Red warned the woman. "More with me, than anyone. I'll explain in a minute." he turned to Dembe. "You're monitoring Ben?"
"Daniel is with him now. We will be rousing him," he glanced at his watch, "in the next half-hour or so."
"Why don't you go rest before dinner. Francis and Danny can handle Ben." Red suggested, glancing at his own watch. "We'll meet you in the dining area later."
Taking the offer, Dembe strode down the hall before disappearing from sight.
Ushering Lizzy to their room, Red closed the door behind him, shutting everyone out for the time being.
"What?" Liz heard the man's quiet muttering, but not clearly.
"I said," Red repeated half-heartedly, "I feel like I'm in damned high-school," he grumbled.
"Okay," Liz chuckled for the man's grumpy mood, "why, exactly?"
"Here..." Red shoved the small bag in his hand her way.
Taking the offering, Liz curiously opened it, a frown pulling at her brow as she removed a box of pregnancy tests.
"R-Red?" she stammered. "I'm not–"
"I know that, and you know that," he poured a small finger of scotch, "but news of your non-existent pregnancy has spread like wildfire."
He sipped his drink, enjoying the burn coursing down his throat. "This damned hotel is like a little Peyton Place!" the man savored his drink. "It's hotter gossip than when I got busy with the homecoming queen and head cheerleader the same night."
He gently turned the woman towards their bedroom. "Go piss on a stick," he suggested, "get proof positive you aren't with child... then you can have all the drinks you want and I stop feeling like shitty father of the year for letting you get soused."
"Aren't you supposed to do these things in the morning?"
"Technically, it's the best time to do it, yes." Red agreed. "If you were pregnant."
"Right, sorry." Liz headed for their room. "Stupid remark."
"Baby, stop..." Red hung his head, grimacing at his tone. "I'm being an asshole." he sighed. "I'm sorry."
"No you aren't," Liz smiled softly. "You didn't want anyone thinking badly of me and came up with a solution to fix the problem... as always."
"I should have waited for you to deal with Susan your own way..." Red muttered, disappointed in his dour mood. "Since its apparent, she alone can spread the news more efficiently than anyone." he groused.
"No, I think this will shut everyone up." Liz held up the box. "Quite nicely..."
"Don't do it." Red murmured. "Just... don't." he stepped, wrapping his arms about Lizzy's waist.
"We're not going to take it to dinner and slap in on the table to stave off their curiosity." Liz seemed acutely disappointed.
"No, it was a stupid thing for me to even consider." the man snapped. "What the hell business is it..." he shook his head. "What the hell was I thinking? Putting you through the embarrassment–"
"I'm not embarrassed." Liz assured. "Hey, I could use it as a swizzle stick for my drink at dinner... would that be too conspicuous?"
Red chuckled finally, settling his mood.
"When I bought them, I was exasperated." Red confessed. "When we feel the need to use one," he tapped the box, "I would rather hold a wonderful memory of that moment."
Liz glanced down at the box in her hand, idly twirling it with her fingers.
"Besides, that news, whatever it may be, is ours," Red ran a caressing hand through Lizzy's dark hair, "until we decide to share it. Do you agree?"
Smiling, Liz leaned, tenderly kissing the man. "You are getting to be quite the buzz-kill, Sir...I'm just saying."
"Where are we going?" Liz asked as Red bypassed the main dining room and continued down the hall.
"I suggested, given the circumstances," Red replied, "in might be prudent were Mark to set us up in a private dining room."
"Good call," Liz murmured. "Although somehow... the grapevine will get wind of anything which goes down. So should we really bother?" she teased.
"Apparently, I can bribe staff here," Red made mention, "if nothing else... to keep their mouth shut... at least for a goodly number of days."
Rounding the corner, Red noticed Dembe and Amy just up ahead, waiting at the double doors.
"Has anyone else arrived yet?" Red directed his attention to Dembe specifically.
"Francis, Daniel... a couple of the ladies are inside." Dembe said before looking over Red's shoulder. "Michael and Susan are, as always, arriving fashionably late."
"Michael couldn't match his socks again?" Red ventured a guess, relived to hear the giggling of the women beside him.
Dembe offered a non-committal shrug in reply.
"Amy, why don't I introduce you to the others while we wait." Liz brightly suggested.
"I'll be with you momentarily," Red plastered on his own smile.
Knowing Lizzy well enough now, he could feel the nervous energy radiating off her frayed nerves. He couldn't blame her; this was either going to be a resounding success or a spectacular failure.
Opening the door, Dembe stepped inside the dimly lit room, allowing the ladies to step past.
Half-listening to the introductions behind him, Red focused on the approaching couple.
"Mark is with Ben," Michael said without delay, "they're on their way."
"How are things going?" Susan peered around the door, checking out the newest addition.
"As well as could be expected," Red told the truth. "Amy's understandably nervous, but it appears she's made a connection with Elizabeth, so that's helped settle nerves. Well, theirs... not mine."
"Let's get a drink." Susan muttered. "I feel one will be needed in the very near future."
Stepping through the doorway, Red was relieved to see the group welcoming the woman into the fray, further easing the strain.
Trusting Lizzy had Amy well in hand, Red fell into an easy conversation with Daniel and Emma on one side, and Amanda on the other.
Dividing his attention between the two groups, Red settled his hand on Lizzy's waist and felt the woman relaxing by degrees the more the small entourage mingled.
Unobtrusively stepping to Red's side, Dembe leaned, muttering quietly. "Show time."
"Thank you, Dembe." Red replied just as quietly with a smile for the man's well-timed wit.
Taking a steadying breath, Daniel smiled readily. The petite redhead beside him took his hand, giving it a supportive squeeze.
Sensing a change in atmosphere, Amy exhaled shakily at Lizzy's side, tightly clasping her hands to Liz's firm grip.
"It's okay." Liz stroked the woman's arm. "This is a good thing..." she encouraged. "Everything will be all right, you'll see."
Straightening, Amy cleared her throat just as the door swung open, revealing Mark, slowly trailed by Ben... who looked markedly better than he did a couple of hours ago.
Hesitating in his steps, Ben gasped as he realized who stood just a few feet away, his eyes drinking in the incredulous sight.
"... Amy?" he slowed in his approach, uncertain as to what was expected of him.
"Ben, I..." Amy exhaled shakily once more, stepping to meet the man half-way.
"I-I'm so sorry, I would have never..." Ben choked, "I didn't know, I swear I–"
"I know," Amy's eyes glittered, "I know you didn't."
Oblivious to the others, tears spilled unashamedly from Ben's eyes as he neared the woman.
"Baby..." he gulped his relief. "I don't know what to do." he spread his arms out plaintively, needing to make some sort of contact.
Taking the final step herself, Amy wrapped her arms about Ben's shoulders, hugging him close.
Subtly backing away, Red lay his hand on Lizzy's back, guiding her to the dinner table. Thankfully, the others followed suit, providing the couple with a modicum of privacy.
Alert to the soft sniffling at his side, Red's eyes softened, handing Lizzy a handkerchief.
"They'll be all right," he whispered.
"I hope so." the woman dabbed her eyes, a gentle smile on her face.
Glancing at the provided menu, Red was pleased the others took their cue and perused the choices available. By the time they all appeared to make a selection, Amy and Ben took their seats.
While the others ordered, Red side-glanced the couple and was pleased they were holding hands and stealing glances and smiles at every possible opportunity.
Though he didn't think for one minute their issues were resolved, Red believed the couple were well on their way to being able to talk matters out.
A first step in every negotiation.
"That's not perverted," Francis shared his differing opinion as the dinner topic had turned to questionable subject matter, what with several Alpha males in attendance.
"You don't think that's perverted?" Danny scoffed, ignoring the lyrical giggling of the woman beside him. "I'm shocked..." he rolled his eyes.
"Hell no." Francis dismissed such a notion.
"I know I'll regret it," Danny scratched his neck, "but dare explain the difference to me then."
"Kinky is when you tickle your girlfriend with a feather," Francis stressed the explanation, "perverted is when you use the whole fucking chicken."
Jerking his head back, Danny let the picture form in his imagination before giving a cackling Mark Donovan a cross look.
"Well, shit," Daniel sat back, "with that visual... I see your point."
Francis tossed his hands up. "You're welcome."
Collapsing back in his seat, Ben gripped his middle as he fell towards Mark, both men laughing raucously for the entire exchange.
Amy tried very hard not to smile, as not to encourage the matter, but seemed so happy to hear Ben's laughter, she just couldn't stop beaming.
"Man, you aren't supposed to use chicken feathers..." Ben choked on a snort when Francis seemed confused by the statement.
"Well, at least I'm not using the whole bird..." Francis haughtily replied, "well, you know, unless she's into that sort of thing."
"Yeah," Mark wheezed, unsure of who to address, "who are you to judge?"
"Stop, stop..." Emma giggled uncontrollably, "I'm gonna pee..."
"What've you been doing with that poor chicken, you dolt!" Amanda wiped tears of joy from her eyes.
Only Francis's date, Melissa... seemed at a loss about the hullabaloo, Red could only assume why.
Red's shoulders shook as Lizzy canted her head back-and-forth, obviously visualizing the disturbing picture painted in her very vivid imagination... her adorably amusing frown deepening each second that passed; until crinkling her nose distastefully.
Needless to say, that look alone told him any fowl-play would not be welcome in their bedroom.
Susan leaned gracefully around Michael's prostrated form, for the man had dissolved into a fit of almost feminine giggles, to blithely inform the idiot down the way...
"One is supposed to use a peacock feather, Francis...peacock." Susan's pained look spoke volumes.
"Or ostrich!" Liz piped up helpfully, then flushed a deep pink when Red glanced her way. "Or... so I've heard."
Susan instantly waved to a passing staff server "Keep them coming," she advised, lifting her glass meaningfully, "... for the love of God."
Michael managed very straight-faced, "Don't be a prude, pooh-bear... let's try the chicken thing."
"Anyway..." Red returned his attention to Susan, just in time to see the woman giving her husband a long-suffering look for joining in the idiocy down the way.
Red cleared his throat, garnering the woman's attention. "You were saying?"
"Morons," Susan muttered, shifting in her seat towards Red.
Scooping up another heaping pile of the airy chocolate mousse, Red waited for the woman to gather her earlier thoughts.
"Oh, right, yes... I can't say I disagree with the assessment, that a partner can add years to your life." Susan remembered, shifting sly eyes.
"Unless you hook up with a succubus," Michael muttered. "...I should know." he dug through his dessert for a specific bite of apple tart.
"Take you, for example," Susan ignored her husband entirely. "I don't think I've seen you look so well." a teasing grin tilted her pretty mouth.
Red glanced down at his person, shrugging. Now that he looked, it did appear he'd lost some weight, or maybe toned up a little. Was he getting vain?
"You appear very well rested, svelte, even relaxed..." Susan told the truth, then leaned conspiratorially. "You know, they say that during sex you burn off as many calories as running eight miles."
"Who the hell runs eight miles in thirty seconds?" Michael guffawed, scooping up a heaping pile of ice cream with a dash of cherry and shortbread.
Chortling under his breath, Red's chin fell, shaking his head just as Susan jerked about, giving her husband a disdainful glance.
"We weren't discussing... you." she snarked, daintily dabbing a napkin against her lips. "I thought you chose the apple tart?" Susan was confused.
"Only because it reminds me of you, my sweet." Michael batted long lashes.
"But cherries no longer do?" Susan arched a brow, daring the man to come up with a suitable retort.
"Every time I take a bite," Michael savored a plump cherry on his lips. "It brings back one of my fondest, most endearing moments, my precious peach."
"Nice save," Red muttered his approval for Michael's attempt to salvage his manhood. Though, his senses told him... this might possibly be a trap.
"Perhaps," Susan arched a keen brow, "... if it had been my virginity he took, I suppose."
Red snorted inwardly as Michael's fork stilled half-way to his mouth... stuck like a deer in headlights.
"A man can fantasize," Michael gulped nervously, "especially about his hot wife."
"You find my tits and ass hot," Susan countered. "Let's cut to the chase."
"Same difference." Michael shrugged, taking another bite of his cobbler. "I love you, thorns and all."
Opening her mouth to reply, Susan hesitated, giving Red an approving look. "That was actually a decent comeback, yes?"
"Considering the source," Red agreed. "I would have applauded his efforts, but my mother did not raise a fool."
"Darling," Susan wrapped a loving arm about Michael's shoulder, leaning to kiss his cheek, "I'm so very proud of your attempt at wit."
"Wit?" Michael lifted a wry brow, shifting Red an askew expression.
Resting his chin on his thumb, Red's fingers curved naturally over mouth, hiding his growing smile.
"I dare say," Ignoring the quip, Susan glanced her husband over lasciviously, "you continue in that vein... it may very well turn me on."
"Don't toy with my affection," Michael drawled. "You know how it confuses me."
"Have you, perhaps, been spending too much time with Francis?" Red wanted to know.
"She's stringing me along." Michael knew the game. "I just know it."
"... Do you?" Red questioned, for Susan's demeanor said differently... for a change.
"Oh, yes." Michael plunked yet another cherry in his open mouth. "She gets me all hot and bothered..."
Susan's eyes slowly drifted Red's way, and teasing light shimmering within the hazel-green eyes.
"Let's me believe I stand a chance," Michael sipped his wine, "then the children come beating down the door." he sighed his woe. "I'm put on the back-burner to wait while she tends to the heathens... and by the time she returns, I'm fast asleep." he grumbled. "And does she wake me? No." he drawled.
"I would like to remind one-and-all, your children... are not in attendance." Red reminded, rolling expressive eyes as the spoon in Michael's hand once again froze mid-way as comprehension took hold.
"Well, then what the hell are we doing here?!" Michael adamantly wanted to know.
"We're eating dinner, darling." Susan spooned up her own treat, grinning her delight. "This is quite delicious." she held the spoon aloft as a show of approval for the tasty concoction, totally oblivious to Michael's stunned face.
The man watched the sensual act with lascivious eyes, mouth agape... a bead of sweat trickling down his temple.
Shaking a woeful head, Red returned to his own sweet, lowering his spoon, just in time to knock against another in the way.
Withdrawing a heaping spoonful, Lizzy ate the frothy mousse, her lashes fluttering innocently.
"You're not gonna eat all that by yourself, are you?" she gestured, pointing the now clean utensil at his chocolate mousse.
"Apparently not," Red chortled, sliding the plate between them to lessen the woman's reach.
As servers began clearing away plates and they served coffee, Red glanced at Lizzy as she shifted uncomfortably in her seat.
"I'm going to the restroom." she murmured quietly, laying her napkin on the table.
"You all right?" Red whispered, wondering if she needed to depart for the evening.
"No, I'm fine." she smiled gently, pushing her seat back.
"I think I'll join you," Susan said, also lifting from her chair.
Walking down the hall, the ladies shared light conversation as they pushed through the doorway, retreating to their private areas.
"I think Emma is just darling," Susan made mention. "Daniel seems quite taken with her, that much is obvious."
"I agree," Liz did. "He would be a fool not to find her attractive. She's funny, beautiful," she said, "... incredibly smart. They make a good pair."
"Why?" Susan grinned maliciously. "Because he's dumb as a box of rocks?"
Tittering quietly, Liz smiled. "No, I meant, in just this short time I've known him, he just appears more... happy, I don't know."
"Oh, honey," Susan scoffed, "any man is more happy if he has a chance at getting laid."
The smile on Liz's face shifted to a grimace as a cramp pulled in her abdomen, almost taking her breath away for a moment. A painful, yet needed, reminder of her goal for this evening. Taking a sobering breath, Liz let it out slowly, bracing herself.
"Dammit," she cursed softly, but hopefully loud enough to be heard.
Frowning, Susan glanced over her shoulder in the mirror's reflection. "Something wrong?"
"You wouldn't happen to have a pad or tampon, would you?" Liz asked quietly. "Don't you just hate this time of the month..." she chattered nervously to fill the silence, attempting a smile.
"Ohh," Susan tsked sympathetically, her smile falling away. "Hang on a minute, sweetie."
Stepping into the next stall, Susan silently handed Liz the needed items under the low wall.
Taking the offered supplies, Liz murmured a thank you before Susan backed away, giving her a moment's privacy.
The smile faded into oblivion as Liz sat in the quiet of the stall, her emotions shifting chaotically for some obscure reason.
Blinking at the hot wash of tears, Liz frowned for the unexpected turn. She knew this was all for show to get the gossip mill slanted the right direction, but something about the ruse... hurt.
"It's just hormones," she muttered to herself. It made sense, of course. She was always a little weepy during her period.
She was also adapting and growing accustom to having female friends again that cared and even anticipated the outcome of such a possibility.
Susan's acute disappointment for her and Red was incredibly touching.
Taking a steadying breath, she exited the stall, meeting Susan at the sinks. Sharing a small smile, Liz blinked rapidly, ridding herself of the extra shine in her eyes as she washed her hands.
"I'm so sorry, honey." Susan broke the silence, tenderly hugging Liz.
Hugging the woman back, Liz drew on the comfort provided. "It's all right, really." she muttered.
Stepping back, Susan brushed Liz's bangs aside, nodding once. "We should get back."
Making the trip in silence, Liz took the moment for a little quiet introspection before reentering the dining room.
Shifting his attention to the doorway, Red's brows furrowed, watching the two cross the room, in more somber spirits than before they left; Susan's saddened expression confirmed his theory.
Lizzy had succeeded in her mission.
Hastily pushing from his seat, Red pulled Lizzy's seat back for her to sit, before retaking his own beside her.
"Everything okay?" he murmured quietly in her ear.
"Yeah," Liz smiled weakly, "everything's fine." she gripped his hand tightly in hers.
Glancing over at Susan, Red canted his head curiously as the woman focused on their clasped hands before her attention slowly drifted upwards.
Shaking her head once, Susan's expression spoke of the empathy she felt for her friends.
Whatever Lizzy had done, Susan knew without doubt... that baby she fixated on for days was not to be.
Red nuzzled Lizzy's temple, kissing the soft skin... suddenly feeling a deep loss for something that never was.
Lost to his own thoughts for some long few moments, Red sighed inwardly, finally glancing up at the smell of sweet smoke.
Daniel puffed on the cigar Mark had suggested, nodding agreeably before offering Michael a crack at it.
"Is this pot? If so... I'm in." Michael took the chunky cylinder, puffing it eagerly.
"If that was weed," Daniel pointed at the large object, "we'd all be pulling a Cheech and Chong routine along about now." he chuckled at the thought.
Once again feeling a stony stare, Red shifted a leisurely gaze, catching Francis' eyes seconds before the boy... once again... darted his attention away.
Red rolled his eyes.
"Excuse me, sweetheart," Red murmured, pushing his seat back.
Liz glanced away from her conversation with Susan and Amy. "...Sure."
Walking about the large table, Red leaned over the shoulder he clasped tight in his hand. "Come with me... now."
Shoving his chair back, Francis walked stiffly beside the man and out the door.
Pushing the young man towards an empty room just down the hall, Red slammed the door shut behind them, beginning without preamble.
"I didn't tell you about Carver because I didn't want your focus diverted from Elizabeth," Red snapped the words. "You would have been overly cautious and just not yourself..." he waved aggravated hands, "I didn't want that for either of you."
"I'm not a fucking amateur, Red!" Francis argued. "I know how to keep alert without Lizzy knowing!"
"If she thought you were only there to protect her and not just enjoy her company, it would hurt her." Red countered his own thoughts on the matter.
"I watched out for Tom," Francis pointed out, "what's so different about–"
"Tom is nothing. I can handle Tom. For that matter, Elizabeth can handle that idiot." Red grumbled. "Tom is a non-entity here!"
Frowning, Francis remained silent... listening.
"You protecting Lizzy from Tom is what any friend would do for someone he loves," Red explained. "He's the terrible ex-husband you torment and threaten... just to make her feel better."
"Well... yeah," Francis followed along so far. "Lizzy's my best-friend."
"I knew you could handle Tom without issue," Red told the truth, "more to the point, Lizzy wouldn't have been upset were that eventuality come to pass."
While Lizzy and he knew Tom was more than her ex-husband... all Francis knew was the bastard hurt his friend. If Francis beat the shit out of Tom, Lizzy would know it was for that reason and no other.
"Besides those gathered around that table in there," Red hooked a thumb towards the dining room they just vacated, "when's the last time you wondered if someone was your friend... just because they liked you?"
Ducking his chin, Francis' frown deepened. "... A while."
"Well, you need not wonder any longer," Red stressed. "Lizzy loves you for you, not because of who you are or what you do... or how stupid you can be at times. If anything," he halted Francis' retort curtly, "she loves you all the more for it."
Red leaned his fists into the table, a dark scowl on his face. "You both need each other for almost the same reasons."
"What do you mean?" Francis stepped, his voice lowering to a normal one.
"All Lizzy needs from you is your friendship and love," Red said. "She needed to know someone loved her for who she is, nothing more."
"Everyone likes her." Francis groused. "She's just that sort!" he was a little more than confused by the observation.
"While Lizzy and her guards get along fine," Red read the boy's mind, "I hired them to protect her." he explained. "Elizabeth has it in her head; if circumstances were different... none of them would have sought her out just to be a friend."
"Nora loves Lizzy," Francis pointed out helpfully. "And I love Nora."
"Well, great, but again," Red reminded, "had I not hired Nora to take care of Elizabeth, the chances of them meeting and striking up the relationship they have would have been astronomical."
"The same could be said for me," Francis countered.
"Have I put you on my payroll?" Red arched a brow. "When exactly did I hire you to protect or care for Elizabeth?"
Biting at his lip, Francis thought back, then lifted even more confused eyes.
"After attending your party with my fiancé," Red reminded, "you and Lizzy struck up a friendship... all on your own."
"Well, s-she does that with everyone... Mark, Susan..." Francis rolled his hand, indicating their other friends in succession.
"Yes," Red agreed, "but you were the first... and the most special."
"Me?" the boy brightened, then ran a hand down his lapel. He cleared his throat, truly understanding for the first time how deeply special his friendship with Lizzy was.
"I still don't understand why you didn't at least give me a heads up about Carver." Francis truly felt at a loss. "That sicko is dangerous, not to mention psychotic." he couldn't help but remind the man. "A dangerous, psychotic... whacko!"
"Regardless of my status in Lizzy's life," Francis continued, "its good for one's health to know when there's a chance a maniacal bastard could jump out of the bushes with a meat cleaver!"
"You're right," Red admitted. "I should have at least given a warning Carver was in the area."
"But you didn't..." Francis said, "and I have a feeling, there's more than my friendship with Lizzy that led you to neglect sharing such information."
"Carver... could conceivably be part of a bigger issue." Red grunted his aggravation, wondering how the hell he could explain that fiasco.
"I can't tell you everything, Francis." Red lifted stony eyes. "Not because I don't want to–"
"Does it have to do with work?" Francis frowned the minute he said the thought aloud.
"Some of it." Red ran a rough hand across his brow, his exasperation skyrocketing.
"You said in Vegas," Francis remembered, "it was a past associate wanting revenge..."
"Francis, I want to tell you, I just can't yet." Red stressed, hoping the young man would understand and wait it out.
"It's coming, isn't it?" Francis said. "The time when you can confide in me."
"I believe it is fast approaching, yes." Red confessed. "It's so damned complicated, Francis." he grumbled. "This mess..." he sighed heavily, "my secrecy does not reflect on the level of trust I have in you... don't let it affect your relationship with Lizzy."
"You're trying to protect Lizzy." Francis thought he could now understand Red's reasoning, but not how it all connected.
"It will all make sense soon..." Red murmured, suddenly exhausted by the very idea.
"And that scares you?" Francis surmised.
"Yes, but only because of..." he trailed off, his jaw pulsing erratically. "You just remember, Elizabeth loves you. Nothing that happens will change how she feels about you, do you believe that?"
"... Yes." Francis felt an edge of unease seeing Red so unsettled, but then, suddenly, everything was on an even keel again.
Lizzy was the one thing Red had in his life that brought him joy, happiness and love. He couldn't blame the man for wishing to protect what he cherished most in the world from any sort of harm.
"All right then..." Francis decided. "I'll try patience for one, considering it's for Lizzy."
"Promise me." Red knew it was a long shot, but if nothing else, he hoped when push came to shove... Francis would hesitate to act rashly when things exploded around them.
Reading the genuine anxiety and fear for Lizzy in Red's expression and posture, Francis inclined his head.
"I promise, I'll remember." the kid nodded solemnly. "I'll think things through with this conversation in mind."
Red knew it was cold comfort, but right now... that's all he could rely on. He also couldn't help but hope the kinship Lizzy and Francis shared would eclipse everything thrown at them.
Taking a step towards the door, Francis pulled up short when Red clasped his elbow, halting his retreat.
"I didn't anticipate this," Red murmured, as if just then comprehending something.
Francis canted his head expectantly, waiting for Red to continue.
"We've known each other a long time," he began, reminiscing on the beginnings of their acquaintance.
Francis nodded, agreeing with the statement. "We have."
"When I first let you in, it was because I enjoyed your company," Red confessed, "and believed you could relax Elizabeth in social settings."
Francis shrugged, understanding Red's reasoning. Aside from the danger their world presented, Lizzy didn't know anybody when Red introduced her to the fold. Of course, he hoped she would find an ally to chat with during parties and other social gatherings.
"Because of our history and the bond you've made," Red shared his thoughts, "I realized... I trust you more with Elizabeth, probably more than any person... except, Silas."
"And Dembe..." Touched by the words, Francis shuffled his feet, pleased to be regarded as such a friend, but had to remind the other man of priorities. He was proud to be in such a man's company, after all.
"I never expected we would grow so close, or that you would form such a tight bond with Elizabeth."
Flashes of the moments Francis shared with Lizzy sped by on a quick reel; all the pictures were of them laughing, smiling... and generally having a great time.
It warmed Red's heart.
"It didn't occur to me to divert your attention," Red continued, "or that you may, one day, question my motives. That you could believe I intended to derail our relationship in some unforeseen manner."
Obviously sensing an underlying tone, Francis's mouth snapped shut, his eyes lit with a sudden alertness; one that set off an internal alarm that said... the walls have ears, tread lightly.
"That was not my intention," Red stressed, "nor Elizabeth's." he reiterated. "Don't let my secrets ruin what you have found together."
"Do you promise, Red?" Francis questioned softly. "Loyalty above all else."
"I do, I promise my loyalty." Red replied without hesitation. "Always, Francis... always. Remember and count on that. I don't lie to you."
Breathing a sigh of relief, Francis focused sharp eyes on his friend. "When the time is right... you'll let me know–"
"I will," Red interrupted.
Hearing what he needed, Francis nodded, then reached for the door handle. "I do love her, Red." he stressed the words and sentiment behind them. "I will protect her–"
"I know you do." Red knew that to be a fact... his world feeling a little lighter, more secure now.
Pulling the door open, Francis ended the conversation and the tension between them. By the time they reentered the dining room, Francis was his normal self, teasing Lizzy as he sat back at the table.
Red hoped with all his heart... it would stay that way.