Tugging Silas eagerly behind her, holding fast to his hand, Liz glanced back at the man every few seconds... beaming.
"Has anyone ever told you," Silas made mention, "you're a bit on the scary side?"
"Has anyone ever told you," Liz countered, "mullets are out of style?"
Shaking his luxurious locks, Silas noted a bikini-clad blonde eyeing him lasciviously.
"Works for me..." his deep, sensual murmur alerted Liz to something amiss.
Noticing the flirtatious exchange taking place, Liz scoffed derisively. "What is it with you!"
Grinning, Silas spun in a slow circle, keeping the blonde's attention, his gaze a suggestive one to say the least.
Flicking her tongue along the decorative straw in her drink, the woman captured the tip with her plump lips, arching a seductive brow in return.
"I see," Silas glanced at the man trailing beside him, "no one thought to tell me the playground was open."
Chuckling, Matthew held up the man's bag. "If you've got Liz," the younger guard held his amusement, "I'll take this to check-in, for you."
Halting in her tracks, Liz's scowl deepened as Silas continued starting at the saucy blonde, idly scratching his scruffy cheek, completely ignoring Matthew's polite inquiry.
"Hello..." Liz drawled expectantly.
"I'm thinking..." Silas motioned idly with his hand, annoyed his concentration had been broken.
"Think harder!" Liz pouted, crossing tight arms across her chest. "You're here for me, or have you forgotten!"
Matthew maintained a totally professional attitude throughout the exchange, to his credit.
"Have you forgotten, I'm still on vacation." Silas reminded with a surly growl, deepening Liz's pout. "I show up out of the goodness of my own heart..." he smiled contentedly at his newfound friend, ignoring Liz's scoff of disgust, "and this is the thanks I get?"
Sighing his lot in life, Silas gestured to the patiently waiting Matthew. "Hey, tell them I want a poolside room, will ya?" he grinned. "The view is... spectacular."
"You got it." Matthew grinned, giving his counterpart a lazy salute.
"You uh," the guy noted a lovely little brunette passing by in his line of sight had caught Silas' wayward attention, "want maid service every day or..."
"I don't know?" Silas eyed the man questioningly. "... Do I?"
Matthew motioned to the towels securely held in the brunette beauty's arms.
Silas picked up on the hint, his brows lifting approvingly. The woman disappeared into the poolside changing area.
"Uh... yeah." Matthew shifted his eyes towards Liz, then back to Silas, relaying a silent 'guy' message. "I think you do."
"Set me up, my good man." Silas' large hand slapped the man on the shoulder in open camaraderie.
When the man cleared his field of vision, Silas returned his attention to the blonde, his gaze measuring her assets from her head to the pretty little bare toes.
"You've been here all of ten minutes," Liz snarled behind the man, "and you're already looking to stick your dick in any warm hole you can find!"
"Again, I'm on vacation." Silas repeated, enunciating the words so even she could 'get' it.
"You're like that every day!" Liz snarked irritably.
"And what have you been doing while you've been here?" Silas turned a lazy gaze her way. "Playing shuffleboard?"
The man's brow knitted, his head canting slightly. "Knowing you... that's probably exactly what you've been doing."
"I have not, you imbecile!" Liz huffed her annoyance, then... flushed a bright pink, realizing what she had just admitted.
The man's handsome face grimaced his growing impatience.
"What the hell's wrong with you now?" Silas scowled. "Besides the norm..."
Liz fought her embarrassment, rapidly changing subjects. "You have no idea all the stuff we've had to contend with." she took a deep breath, sighing her doldrums.
"So much has happened, Silas! I don't know where to start." She absently drew a line in the grass with the toe of her tennis show as she gathered her thoughts.
Silas' frown deepened, noting the uncharacteristic hesitation and manner.
"I think it all started with that Tobias guy starting that awful fight with Francis." Liz was pretty sure the incident had started the proverbial ball rolling.
"Yeah, I heard about that bastard." Silas began, only to be cut short as the words tumbled from Liz's mouth.
"Red got all pissy because I tried to help a little," the woman wrung her hands nervously, "and I guess maybe I shouldn't have done that, but..."
"But, you did... as usual." Silas finished for her, knowing Liz well enough she couldn't pass up sticking her nose in on a brawl.
"But the next day was so nice... well, aside from the weather thing," the woman smiled happily, remembering the day.
"You kissed and made up." Silas was following so far.
"Yeah... and Red has really taken time here." Her eyes brightened. "He's relaxed and joined in on things. It's been so wonderful spending time but..." her words fell away.
Liz glanced off into the distance, a tranquil look on her face.
"He planned the most romantic..." Liz's eyes glittered, visualizing the cherished memory. "It was just... magical. Oh, Silas...it was just beautiful, and the setting was so...Red is just so... well, it was exactly how I wished." She babbled airily. "You know what I mean? It was just... just perfection." She exhaled shakily, grasping Silas' hand in her own.
"Uh, huh." Silas commiserated in his own way, watching the woman briskly wipe away the happy tears spilling down her cheeks.
"You remember, it was our two-month anniversary the other day." She reminded the man. "Red loved his gifts by the way." Her cheeks plumped happily.
"I thought he might." Silas liked to think he read people well enough. "Your welcome, by the way."
"The entire week has just been everything I hoped it would be." Liz's smile slowly slipped, her brow furrowing. "Until... well..."
"That fucker, Edward showed his true colors." Silas cut to the chase, having heard the cliff-notes from Dembe. "We'll discuss that further in a moment."
He let Liz know of Red's approach with a minute motion of his head.
Liz forced a smile of greeting.
Red neared the pair, hand out to greet Silas.
"I hear congratulations on your engagement are in order." Silas clasped the man's hand in a hearty grip. "Your true engagement."
Liz beamed happily at Red, stepping to his side.
"Elizabeth told you." Red smiled, clasping Lizzy's free hand with his own.
"In, oh, so many words." Silas cut the woman a long, suffering look.
Laughing under his breath for Lizzy's sour look, Red kissed the woman's soft, dark hair.
"Did you have any trouble at the airport? I sent a car..." Red enquired, even as Silas scoped out the pool area. "Should we get you a room?"
Red noted the guy's attention was not exactly focused, following Silas' line of sight.
"I thought it was just brunettes this season." Red grinned. The target of the guard's obvious fixation was noted.
"It's first come, first serve." Liz corrected that misconception. "But it's okay... he's on vacation, I'm told."
Red sensed the woman's pique. "Well, he is, baby." the man's grin widened.
"Judging by your lecherous gaze," Red's mouth twisted wryly. "I am assuming it would be efficaciousto keep Matthew on retainer?"
"For the evening slots, at least." Silas agreed wholeheartedly. "I forgot what a smorgasbord Donovan had at this little shindig." the man smiled happily.
Silas' shark-like grin should have alerted any would be victim with an ounce of common sense; danger was present... come out of the water.
The ladies within Silas' direct line of sight, however, displayed themselves like choice bait, ready and willing to be eaten alive... literally.
"I'm beginning to understand why there were so many victims in Jaws." Liz mused.
"Victims?" Silas objected to the term. "It's called survival of the fittest... and they all look pretty fit to me. I don't mind if they want to me to come in hard, and end up wet... not one bit."
Biting his inner cheek, Red controlled his amusement for the relevant yet crass witticism. "How very... magnanimous of you, Silas."
"In your case, I think they'd tell you oxygen is overrated." Liz scowled hard at her guard. "And only if you perform admirably... should you come up for air. It's a shame you're gonna die..."
Seeing Lizzy's sour expression combined with her surly tone and waspish berating of her guard, Red felt his body further relax... sensing a bit of normalcy return.
Nodding thoughtfully, Silas focused his interest. He picked up the woman's hand, noting the symbol of unity on her finger... specifically.
Liz lifted her left hand, wriggling the blinding bauble in her guard's face. "Have you ever seen anything so beautiful!" she gushed her pride, now it was acceptable.
Crossing his arms over his chest, Silas' head canted leisurely. "So, you have been putting out."
Dropping her head back, Liz growled softly in her throat. "No!"
Silas arched his brow knowingly, remaining silent... waiting.
"Well, yes, okay, I have." Liz rescinded begrudgingly, pissed she felt the need. "But that's not why Red asked, and you know it!" she exasperated.
Chuckling, Silas wrapped his arm about the woman's neck, tugging her to his side. "I know, kid, calm down. You're gonna blow! Which... you probably have, upon second thought."
Scrunching her nose for the rough handling, Liz came willingly, resting her head on the man's shoulder.
"I hate you." She made mention.
Red smiled at the bickering pair. "I'm going to get a drink. Either of you like one?"
Silas cocked his head, his interest caught yet again. "Get me an order of that–"
"Red-head, yes... I know." Red chuckled, leaning to kiss the woman's temple. "Don't kill him before I get back." he murmured.
"I make no promises." Liz grumbled.
Assured the woman was in capable, if aggravating hands, Red headed for the bar, a growing smile on his face.
Tightening his hold on Liz, Silas nudged her to follow, finally situating them beneath a nearby shade tree.
"It's about time he made an honest woman of you." Silas teased. "People were starting to talk."
"You mean like... you." Nudging him hard with her elbow, Liz tsked. "I was gonna ask you to walk me down the aisle," she grumbled. "Now I'm choosing Francis."
"You'd be better off with a honing pigeon." Silas smirked. "Were it not for Nora, Francis couldn't navigate his way to the kitchen." he drawled. "Why not your surrogate daddy?"
Liz held her breath, searching the expectant gray eyes watching her so intently. Her face fell. "I-I couldn't do that..." she shook her head woefully. "That's a family thing and..."
"Antonio considers you family." Silas interrupted. "You must sense that."
"I would love it if he did," Liz confessed quietly, then shook her head once more. "If he knew who I really was..." her eyes closed. "I wouldn't deceive him like that."
"But you will, Francis." Silas half-laughed, then shrugged. "Even if you told Idgit straight out who you were, he probably wouldn't comprehend it, so he may be the better choice, you're right."
Silas' smile fell away as Liz lifted tear-filled eyes. "I was joking, birdbrain."
"No, I just realized," she inhaled shakily, "I shouldn't ask Francis either." She swallowed around the lump in her throat.
Liz's heart fell at the realization, if or when her real identity came to light... most everyone she loved would very likely have nothing to do with her any longer.
"Maybe... maybe, we should elope or something." she mused quietly, her brow crinkling. "I mean, I don't really need a wedding to–"
"Yes, you do." Silas interrupted once more. "Besides, the fact you want one," he knew all too well. "Red will expect a lavish party with free flowing liquor. The more free-flowing, the better."
"You think so?" Liz lifted hopeful eyes, wanting... needing to be convinced.
"Hell, yes." Silas scowled. "When has Red turned down a good time," the man wanted to know, "or the chance to stick his hand up your dress?"
Jerking her head back, Liz looked up at the man questioningly. "What?" she lost his train of thought.
"The garter you're supposed to wear on your thigh?" the man reminded.
"Oh.." Liz nodded, blinking at the sudden imagery filling her imagination. "Oh, Red would like that, wouldn't he." She brightened somewhat.
"He would." Silas confirmed. "For all you know," the man continued, "Antonio could be called away on business or Francis could be in a full body-cast."
Reluctantly chuckling, Liz wiped the tear stains on her cheeks. "Sounds like something that dope would do... ruin my wedding, just because he could."
"Until you have the wedding in order, don't worry 'bout the rest of that shit." Silas advised, casting his eyes to the right. "Who's the red-head?"
Sighing, Liz's head fell back dramatically. "That's it? That's all the time you can spare? What about–"
Liz glanced at Emma, finding the woman staring at them curiously.
"What more do you need?" Silas frowned. "We have a game plan... now, tell me about the red-head."
"She's spoken for, so you just curb your enthusiasm." Liz attempted to crush the man's spirits.
"Why don't we let the little fire-snatch decide for herself." Silas smiled placatingly.
Liz opened her mouth to warn the guy of the little fire-snatch's suitor... then thought better of it. Giggling inwardly at the thought of Silas being pulverized, Liz plastered on a smile, waving the man forward.
"Come on, Fabio." Liz hooked the man's arm, dragging him along.
"You're up to something." Silas knew that face.
"Oh, no, not at all." Liz's grin brightened. "Hey, guys!" she called out to her newfound friends, tugging Silas into the spotlight. "This is..."
"The answer to all your prayers." Silas offered the ladies a confident smile of greeting.
"Has that nasty case of the Clap cleared up as yet?" Susan enquired sweetly, slyly warning the girls of the questionable Casanova in their presence.
"On my end..." Silas eyed the woman, "... how 'bout yours, beautiful?"
Scoffing her disgust, Liz hit out, punching the man in the thigh. "Stop it!" she hissed quietly.
Slowly arising from her seat, Susan grinned, wrapping her arms about Silas' neckline. "I've missed you, you disgusting man-whore." She leaned, kissing the man's scruffy cheek.
"I can feel the love." Emma quipped, laughing softly at the display.
"You could feel the... love, if you really want, my beautiful imp." Silas turned his cheek for another of Susan's caresses, resting his palm on her hip, "Dinner, tonight? Clothing optional."
Emma giggled despite herself before clamping her lips together to hide her smile.
"The beautiful imp," Daniel rumbled, stepping in behind the trio, "... will most assuredly be indisposed this evening."
Silas turned to the new arrival, nodding his greeting. "Courtland..." he absently sized the other man up.
"Silas..." Courtland did the same and then... the men shook one another's hands.
"I see the lesser man won out here." Silas was never one to back down, especially in front of a bevy of lovely females.
"I'll whip mine out... you whip yours out, we can take precise measurements or," Danny suggested another route, "we can all just settle down and have a cold beer."
Minutes later, both men were settled down in deck chairs, the moment forgotten.
Nursing his beer, Silas chuckled at the off-color observation Susan made concerning Natalia's choice of bathing suits.
Silas was well aware of the running feud between the two women, which had lasted years now. The man's brow furrowed, however, when he heard Liz decline yet another invitation to swim.
Scowling, he absently noted Liz's bikini-clad friends... then zeroed his attention in on the woman herself.
Susan trailed off, noticing the man's attention had drifted. "Something wrong?"
"What the hell is this?" he waved a curt hand to Elizabeth's clothing, raising his voice to catch Liz's attention.
"Uh, w-well I..." Liz stammered, rubbing her suddenly sweaty palms on her hips, disliking being the sudden center of attention.
"You're not doing this shit." Silas stated a determined denial, arising to his full-height to glare down on his unsuspecting prey.
The ladies' giggles fell away, for the man's stern tone and surly expression carried above the usual din of light-hearted gaiety.
Susan scowled hard for Silas' abrupt change in tone and demeanor. "Now, look here, Goliath–"
"After all the hard work we've accomplished." the man mumbled tightly, stepping into Liz's space. "...No way in hell, you're letting that fucker win."
Glancing at the young woman beside her, Susan fell silent, sensing something deeper going on than she first thought... allowing things to play out, though ready to intervene should it be warranted.
Snapping upright, Liz tugged anxiously at the hem of her shit, her brow crinkling. "You aren't my–"
"That shit's not gonna happen." Silas snapped quietly. "Where's your suit?"
"U-Upstairs..." Liz blinked rapidly for the man's no-nonsense tone.
"Then get your ass upstairs..." Silas jabbed a pointed finger in the needed direction, hoping like hell Liz would move her ass with little fanfare.
Liz offered a sheepish glance to her friends, her instincts telling her... Silas knew best in this instance.
"Excuse us, ladies." Silas gave them a pointed look as Liz slowly turned to do as bid.
"We'll be here when you get back, Lizzy." Emma smiled her encouragement.
Leaning against a nearby tree, Red held his breath, having watched the scene unfold. Lizzy finally took her first step... and continued walking, with Silas by her side.
Red breathed out, his eyes closing with relief.
Nearing their suite, Liz pulled her key free of her waistband.
Silas had remained silent throughout the entire trek to the room.
"What are you thinking..." Silas grumbled finally, snapping his displeasure. "Letting that loser bitch dictate what you wear..." he took the key, opening the door. Making a quick sweep of the room, he curtly gestured Liz inside.
Stepping in through the opened doorway, Liz swallowed at the growing lump in her throat. Her emotions raw... chaotically churning in her gut.
"You beat the holy hell out of that asshole just like I taught you," Silas sternly reminded, "and don't you forget it!"
Grasping the back of the chair beside her, Liz leaned into her arms, her eyes closing tight against the threatening tears.
"I...I didn't!" she blurted, finally able to admit her guilt. "I didn't! He got the better of me, Silas." she whispered fretfully in the strained silence of the room.
"Did he?" Silas gave the woman a derisive sneer. "Did he rape you?" he bluntly stated.
"N-No..." Liz shook her head vigorously. "N-No, he..."
"Are you dead?" Silas pointed out the flaws in her thinking in his own inimitable fashion.
Sighed heavily, Liz's shoulders slumped. "...No." she answered quietly.
"That's right." Silas stepped within arm's reach. "You are alive... and that asshole didn't complete his objective... and he is dead." He forced Liz's eyes to his. "You won."
Remaining silent, Silas watched the woman's brows furrow, the blue eyes clouding over, obviously replaying events in her head.
Liz averted her eyes suddenly, a deeply troubled look on her face.
"He knocked me down, Silas." she murmured, admitting her downfall to her mentor. "I-I was tired... I gave him the opening."
Understanding more of what was rattling around in the woman's head, Silas relaxed mentally.
"You had, Costa. You just don't believe you did." Silas not only heard about the destruction Liz left in her wake, but Dembe sent pictures of the chaos she inflicted. "You let your pride get the better of you... but not that sick fucking bastard, Liz."
Silas' eyes softened as Liz's filled with unshed tears, hearing the words. "You did what you were supposed to do... just what I taught."
Canting her head curiously, Liz looked at the man questioningly. "B-But–"
"If you find yourself in a situation where a larger opponent has the advantage... take a moment." Silas nodded decisively. "Let them think they got the better of you." he laid out a game plan. "Go lax, get your breath back. Take the break your body needs."
Liz inched closer, listening intently to what the man had to say, taking mental notes.
"They let their guard down if they think they have the upper hand." Silas explained. "They start to make mistakes."
Liz's eyes shifted, recalling the various occasions she had seen an Agent employ such a tactic out in the field.
"When you're ready to go again, and you will be," her thoughts were interrupted by the calm, cool tone, "you make your move then kick the ever living fuck out of 'em... you got it."
"I felt like... I made a mistake." Liz confided. "But had I just... waited it out and not forced Costa to take action..." her brain assimilated. "Yeah..." she breathed out, "yeah, Silas! That might have worked!"
"No damned 'might' about it." the surly tone brightened Liz's mood.
"Get your suit on." Silas hooked a thumb towards the bedroom.
He held his breath until the woman side-stepped his position without hesitation.
"I'll be just a minute..." Liz called back, practically skipping from the room.
Liz chattered animatedly on every topic under the sun as she and Silas traversed the hotel halls.
Crossing the well-manicured lawns, the woman smiled brightly to any and all passerby as the pair neared the pool area.
Liz was blissfully unaware her companion had garnered most of the attention by his subdued woe-be-gone attitude.
Silas held an imaginary six-shooter, patiently loading one bullet after another into the chamber. Slapping it closed, he spun the invisible cylinder then placed the weapon to his temple and... pulled the trigger, which generated grin after grin from those noting the pair.
Both female and male garnered their fair share of attention. Liz's skimpy suit showcased her figure to a 'tee'. While the man beside her had taken the time to slip into a form-fitting light-weight t-shirt which 'showcased' the bulges of his muscular arms.
So yeah, Silas' comical antics caught the attention of most, if not all, the many guests milling about Mark Donovan's place of establishment.
"...I know what you're doing." Liz muttered, smiling pleasantly at another fellow guest. "You idiot."
"What makes you think I would even remotely be interested in what you chicks think about when you're shopping?" the man adopted a disgusted sneer. "I'm on vacation, dammit! I don't have to stand around and actually listen to that 'hen' talk... so I don't want to hear about it second-hand now!"
Liz grinned, her mood much improved for some obscure reason. "How would you feel hearing of second-hand chatter I share with... Samar?"
Silas' head snapped up, his interest immediate and focused. "... What's that got to do with me?" he grumbled moodily.
"Well, you'll never know unless," Liz glanced over her shoulder, a spring in her step as she rounded the tall-hedge lining the pool area, "...you ask," she smiled prettily for the guy, "and make it nicely, too."
The woman's smile brightened even more so as she noticed Amanda and Emma swimming lazily about in the crystal clear blue of the water.
Glancing past their position, Liz giggled under her breath, watching Susan ease ever so slowly down the steps at the shallow end, mindful of her immaculate and artistically applied make-up.
"Oh, Lizzy!" Amanda waved as Liz neared. "You're back and in your suit!"
"You're coming in, right?" Emma asked. "It feels wonderful." the woman treaded the water, a smile of welcome on the pretty face.
Tossing her towel on a nearby lounge, Liz nodded her eagerness. "I just decided, what the hell–"
The woman yelped as someone unceremoniously lifted her in the air and hurled towards the crystal blue waters.
"Oh!" Liz shrieked, the shimmering pool suddenly looming large just beneath her flailing form.
Red winced as the woman threw out some choice words in flight before disappearing into the watery depths with a loud splash.
The sounds of Silas' husky laughter rang out over the tremendous splash that wet him and the surrounding area.
"Ah, ah, ah," Susan objected strenuously, delicately brushing the drips of water from her suit. "You know the rules, Silas." she scolded. "No getting my hair or make-up wet before dinner."
Dramatically dropping his chin to his chest, Red grumbled his woe for the shenanigans, sending Silas an ominous glare.
"What?" Silas lifted a hand out Liz's way. "She said she couldn't wait to get in the pool."
"I don't think," Red cast the man a scolding look, "that's exactly what she had in mind."
Sitting his Mint Julep aside, Red leisurely pushed from his seat to come to Lizzy's aide. The woman broke the surface, sputtering water and indignation from her mouth..
"You son-of-a-bitch!" Liz spat at her cackling guard. "I could have drowned you psychopath!"
"Ah, there's the spirit." Silas grinned at the spitfire below him. "Getting back to form in record time... I approve."
Bypassing the man, Red felt a smile tug at his mouth for the guard's observation. Silas was right. There was a spirit in Lizzy that hadn't been there even twenty minutes ago.
That was a good thing in his books.
"If you ask me nicely.." the guard continued, clearly on a roll, "I'll throw you in anytime you please."
Liz offered a rather unladylike gesture, which only amused Silas all the more.
"What the hell are you smiling for?" Liz scowled at Red as he came to the pool's edge.
"You're beautiful when you're in a temper." Red canted his head, smiling affectionately.
"You want a temper!" Liz pinched full lips. "I'll show you a fuc–"
"Can't even compliment a lady without having her turn on you." Silas nudged Red with his elbow. "Dames... there should be a law. Drowning one is optional, depending on her mood."
Red rolled his eyes heavenward, fighting the widening grin threatening to emerge.
Liz turned narrowed eyes back towards Red, a scowl marring her forehead. "Aren't you gonna defend my honor!" she demanded some course of action.
"Your 'honor' was treaded upon?" Red managed mild confusion, glancing at an equally confused man by his side.
"He-He threw me in the pool!" Liz thought that might be considered 'treading'.
"He did," Red nodded musingly. "However, I was under the impression–"
"Your job is to defend me against bullies like him!" Liz interrupted. "Throttle him!" she stoutly demanded.
Glancing at the man beside him, Red sized Silas up before meeting the man's laughing eyes.
"As you wish, sweetheart." Red sighed lightly, rather enjoying Silas' mild look of shock, sensing something amiss.
Red chortled as the man lurched suddenly, stumbling in his steps.
"What the fu–" Silas bitched, the words drowned out by the blue depths enveloping him.
Francis stepped into view, dusting his hands gingerly, a satisfied look on the ridiculously handsome face.
"Good boy." Red clapped Francis on the shoulder.
Happy to be avenged, Red watched Lizzy hop excitedly in place and clap her joy. His eyes drifted to the stunning sight of her breasts bobbing sensually in the water with her movements, which took his breath away.
Taking a hasty step to his left, Francis quickly hid behind Red's back as Silas broke the surface, smoothing his hair back out of his eyes.
"You fucking assholes." Silas roughly wiped the water from his face. "You know how much these boots cost!"
Giggling happily, Liz danced in place as Silas bounced off the bottom of the pool and swam to the edge. Bracing his arms, he lifted himself from the warm water, unceremoniously plopping his ass on the concrete.
Women held their collective breaths, a fact the guard did not miss. Silas took the time to rid himself of the cumbersome wet t-shirt, which produced a multitude of grateful oohs and ah's as the sun glistened off the man's magnificent body.
The guy held his smile, his temper somewhat cooled. He refused to lose the mood, however, retribution in order.
"That's what you get!" Liz interrupted, tittering her glee as the man removed his boots.
"Oh, kiss my ass." Silas grumbled, dumping the water collected in his boots.
Chuckling quietly, Red smiled down at Lizzy's bright features, a little lighter in soul.
Silas arose to his full-height, having set his boots aside. His jeans hugged his lower body, wet and dripping. The byplay caught the man's attention at the end of the pool.
Absently hooking his thumb into the waist of his low-riding jeans, Silas shifted his weight to the opposite foot.
His groupies practically swooned for the added view afforded their eager gaze, the leading edge of the man's groin was clearly visible care anyone look...
A lot of females... cared.
On this one, Silas was blissfully unaware. Something much more interesting was going down.
"Never one to let an opportunity pass you by, are you?" Red pointedly noted the guy had also subtly flexed the muscles in his toned body for the benefit of his audience.
"Well, are you going to help me out?" Liz batted her large blue eyes up at Red. "You are due a reward, I say."
"Hey!" Francis emerged from his hiding place. "I deserve any rewards doled out! I pushed..."
At Silas' dangerous glare, the boy backed down.
"But only because Red told me to," Francis amended hastily. "Yeah, it was Red that did that."
Holding his arm out, Red bent before narrowing suspicious eyes. Taking a step back from the water's edge, he removed his hat, slapping it against Mark's chest.
"Hold that," he muttered. "I have a feeling I'm about to get wet."
Lowering his arm once more, Red grasped Lizzy's arm as she stared innocently up his way. Gently tugging her upward, he was surprised to not feel a pulling motion, but a hard pushing one... in the middle of his back.
The combination of Lizzy's slight weight and the determined shove, Red fell over the woman's head into the water.
Pushing to the surface, he was greeted with the sight of Lizzy laughing and swimming for him.
Glancing over her shoulder, Red cast a long, suffering look at Mark and Francis stumbling against one another in a fit of laughter.
And his friend... Dembe, standing beside them, a concentrated scowl on the man's face as if he were totally, irrevocably innocent of any and all malicious acts of mischief.
"Well, Red, when you're right..." Francis chortled. "... you're right."
"I knew you couldn't be so vicious, Lizzy." Mark winked at the woman. "Dembe, on the other hand..." he shrugged.
"Dembe, you dirty little traitor." Red shook his head, floating until his feet met the surface beneath him.
Swimming up to the man, Liz wrapped her arms about Red's neck, kissing him soundly. "You needed to cool off..." she smiled softly, kissing him once more. "So grouchy..."
Wrapping his arms about her lithe waist, Red drew the woman closer, smoothing his hand over her head. Cupping her head, he curved his fingers into her wet hair, placing his mouth to hers in a long, lingering kiss.
Floating backward, Red ran a stroking hand over the naked expanse of her bare back before cupping her bottom. Inching backwards, Red slowly turned them about, trapping Lizzy between his bulk and the wall behind her.
"I can't imagine why..." he murmured softly, capturing her mouth once more.
"Eww, mom and dad are at it again!" Francis pulled a face. "I'm gonna upchuck."
Red ignored the boy, his attention focused on something much more pleasant.
After a leisurely time at the pool... and after Red Reddington had changed into his impeccably dressed self, the afternoon progressed.
Red and Liz joined their group for a late afternoon snack and drinks, always a fun time for all.
It was a blustery day; the ladies wished to experience the cooler weather walking in the gardens.
Allowing Lizzy time to reacquaint herself with Silas, Red trailed behind with Dembe as they walked across the greens towards the stables.
The strong breeze whipped Lizzy's hair into a frenzy, twirling it about in a hypnotic swirl before it fell in messy waves about her face and back.
Catching the thick handful, Lizzy smoothed the dark veil from her eyes, but did little else to tame the wild mass... for which Red was eternally grateful. He loved his woman all wild and free.
He didn't think he'd ever seen such a stunning portrait as he did this very moment. The woman's twinkling blue eyes and flush cheeks radiated against the dark strands that shimmered in the warm sun like fall-harvest honey.
The slender, dark jeans conformed to her long shapely legs before hugging her rounded bottom to perfection. Lizzy's ecru colored shirt highlighted her natural glow and tan she'd attained sun-bathing and frolicking the last few days.
Shifting his eyes to the curving slope of her breasts, the light silk shirt shifted about, giving him a view of her full cleavage in mouth-watering intervals.
Pulling his phone free, Red rested his arms along the top rung of a fence overlooking the paddock, snapping a series of candid shots of the lovely woman.
He always believed Elizabeth a classic beauty, though in these past few days, he truly witnessed a transformation to something... timeless.
Not only was the woman physically alluring, but her very persona, dare he say... her aura was captivating.
He had slowly become accustomed to a more affectionate and playful Lizzy, but he had never seen her so carefree and uninhibited.
Silas' presence accounted for the re-emergence of that Lizzy, Red knew. Red was never so grateful for the man. So grateful.
He virtually watched Elizabeth unfurl this last week into a poised and formidable woman. One of which, was highly sought-after in many circles.
Women wished to know Elizabeth for her sparkling attitude, mischievous humor and welcoming demeanor.
Lizzy was coming into her own.
Men... wished to know Elizabeth for the subtle sensuality and kittenish quality she exuded. They sensed she was a partner to be reckoned with, both in and out of the bedroom, and desired just a hint of the gift Red had been awarded.
Red felt proud of Elizabeth's accomplishments. The jealousy of the past had morphed into another outlet for the man, for he knew... the woman belonged to him.
Many times since their arrival, he overheard Elizabeth's qualities... virtues, being discussed if no one knew of his presence.
Of course, he knew that without the added commentary, but it still delighted him to overhear such candid discussion.
Hearing her soft tittering laughter catch in the wind, Red felt himself smile in response to her lightened mood and humor.
Following the woman with his eyes, Red watched Lizzy talk a mile a minute while dragging a reluctant Silas into the stables.
"Elizabeth is fond of the horses," Dembe said in passing. "Matthew tells me she has come here often to visit in her quiet moments."
Resting his foot on a low rung, Red turned towards his friend, nodding. "Perhaps I should purchase her one?"
"Perhaps," Dembe smiled softly, knowing full well Raymond would without question should it make Elizabeth happy. "Though, she has Keres and Hudson at home... besides, where would we put it?"
"She does," Red nodded thoughtfully. "But Lizzy loves horses, always has. Sam said her favorite part of the week was her riding lessons."
Riding lessons Red believed served her well in all areas, if he said so himself.
"We could house it in Nora's kitchen," Red teased. "She strikes me as an animal lover."
"She will indeed strike you if you invade her domain, animal lover or not." Dembe joked, curious how interested Raymond was in such a pursuit. "I suppose we could update the stables at–"
"Look into it, will you?" Red asked of his friend, before movement in the corner of his eye caught his attention. "Update it to Lizzy's specifications."
"I should ask her input?" Dembe ventured.
"Yes... no." Red thought better. "No, just make sure it's enclosed and comfortable for Elizabeth to visit when she wants." he nodded. "Enlarge the space so Lizzy may keep her gear and feed within reach, of course." His mind was already solving any potential problems.
His lips twitched as Lizzy came into view, emerging from the stables... sitting proud and straight on a beautiful mare. Her bottom moved gracefully in the leather seat as she trotted out into the open, her grip on the reins confident, but relaxed, tension free.
Both men chuckled when Silas emerged from the double-doors astride a lively chestnut steed. The animal pranced anxiously about the large enclosure, obviously in the mood to run.
Red glanced up at the woman as she neared his position.
"We're going to run around a few minutes." Liz said, petting the animal's long mane.
"Have fun," Red reached, caressing Lizzy's calf. "I'll be here, I think," he gestured to a nearby bench in the shade, "when you're done."
"Okay, we won't be long." Liz said, then clicked her tongue, guiding the horse out of the paddock.
Silas shrugged massive shoulders on his way past, accepting his lot in life.
Sitting on the bench, Red stretched his legs out in front of him, watching Lizzy frolic about on her horse, her smile bright and radiant.
"Dembe, you don't have to sit here with me if you have other plans." Red patted his friend's hand. "I was just enjoying the weather... the quiet." he said. "If your friends are waiting..."
"I, too, wished a moment of solitude." Dembe relaxed further in his seat. Closing his eyes to the wind, the man inhaled a deep breath, meditating on the warm breeze.
Even at this distance, Red could hear the lyrical melody of Lizzy's laughter as she became accustomed to her mount. Both she and the horse appeared to quickly form a bond. Trailing the animal about the lawn, rider and animal began to move as one.
He had to hand it to the woman, Lizzy was an accomplished rider. She galloped about the field and hopped over small crests with ease and confidence.
"Hey, Red!" Francis called out, getting the man's attention. "Can you help me out here!"
Pushing up from his seat, Red gestured he was coming. "Excuse me, Dembe."
Entering the enclosure, Red neared Francis questioningly. "What's going on?"
"Mark and I were going to get a ride in," Francis replied. "But he got hung up on a call, asked if I could saddle a horse."
"So... what do you need me for?" Red drawled.
"I can't saddle a horse." Francis said. "I have people for that."
"Then why did you agree to do it?" Red sighed heavily.
"Hey, I don't want anyone to know I can't saddle a horse." It seemed obvious to Francis.
Glancing back over the field and finding Lizzy still occupied, Red shrugged. "Why not..."
Walking into the stable, Red eyed the animals available before coming upon the horse he and Lizzy took out for their picnic.
It truly was a magnificent animal, majestic even. The dark, shiny coat was vibrant, as were its mane and tail. The animal was obviously well cared for and groomed to perfection.
Its ears pricked alert, turning towards Red, listening to the soft murmur traversing the corridor as Red soothed the spirited animal with his approach.
"You want to get out of here for a while?" Red muttered quietly, holding his hand aloft.
Snuffling, the horse butted Red's knuckles. Smiling, the man stroked the long snout before cupping a handful of grains in his palm.
"It's a beautiful day... you need to experience it." Red said, letting the horse have his treat.
Brushing his hand clean of feed, Red opened the gate, grabbing the provided tack.
Quickly and efficiently suiting up the horse, Red guided the impressive mount out into the open air.
Its ears pricked once more, concentrating on Lizzy, or more specifically, her horse.
"That your girl?" Red patted the horse's shoulder as he led it up to the gate's edge.
Red chuckled as the animal dipped its head in a rhythmic motion, snuffling, as though replying to the question itself.
"Yeah?" Red conversed with the animal. "That's my girl out there with her."
Both man and beast watched their circumvent path with avid attention.
"It's quite a sight, isn't it?" Red murmured as Lizzy came alongside Silas.
"Oh, hey, Red." Mark said, waving as he neared. "You see, Francis?"
"He's inside... not saddling his own horse." Red replied distractedly. "He should be out in a minute."
"What are you doing?" Mark stepped in beside the man, looking out across the field.
"Just watching, Elizabeth..." Red mused quietly.
Cocking his head about the fence post, Red frowned as Lizzy pointed out across the field, talking animatedly.
Silas sent the woman a censured look. The man shook his head, but Lizzy would have none of it, her manner showing her disappointment.
"What now..." Red sighed, curious to what the problem was exactly.
His frown deepened as a man came alongside them and stood on a natural rock perch, bandana in his hand.
Lizzy was happy again and Silas was shaking his head, which implied he had allowed himself to be talked into something he just as soon not do.
Turning their lively mounts, Lizzy inched upward, coming nose to nose with Silas' horse.
"What the hell," Red gripped the horse's reins tightly, craning his neck for a better view, his senses tingling alarmingly.
The horse beside him snuffled roughly, its attention on the horses across the way.
Lizzy looked to her right, grinning at the man beside them before giving a curt nod of her head.
"They better not be–" Red broke off as the man waved the bandana, sending the two riders lurching from their position, running the horses flat out. "Dammit!" Red hissed his dismay.
Watching Lizzy speed along the ground in a blur, Red's jaw tightened as she passed Silas' position.
"Lizzy..." Red eyes zeroed in on the woman, his focus on her alone.
Red held his breath when the woman glanced back, laughing gaily before nudging the horse to go faster.
Silas was gaining on her position.
Turning his head, Red's heart hammered in his chest. There seemed an almost indiscernible, yet sudden tension in Elizabeth's frame.
"... Oh, God," Red gasped inaudibly, his gaze locked on the nightmare unfolding before him.
Having seen an obstacle in her patch, Lizzy attempted to pull back on the reins.
Red's heart stopped, a wave of fear crashing over him as the horse stumbled on its down-step.
The weight of the animal followed, sending both rider and horse into an uncontrolled forward lurch. Their rapid speed sent them in a dizzying skid across the deep grass and pluming clouds of dirt.
"Elizabeth!" Red bellowed fearfully. "Fuck!" Grabbing the horn of the horse beside him, the man jammed his foot in the needed slot, jerking himself upward.
Swinging himself up into the saddle, Red urged the animal none too gently. The horse, understanding the task demanded of him... took off.
"Open the gate!" Mark yelled the command.
Silas pulled at his reins, jerking his horse about, kicking up dirt in his wake as he hurried back to his fallen companion.
"Get to them!" Red whispered, urgently spurring the horse's flank as he leaned into the increased speed. "Go..."
Red seriously wondered if the mare with Elizabeth was his steed's companion, for it seemed to be as determined to be where Lizzy was, with little guidance on his part.
"Get medical!" Mark barked at a nearby stable hand. Clamoring into a nearby cart, Francis sat anxiously beside him as they rushed from the paddock.
Fixated on the small form crumbled on the ground, Red's heart almost seized in his heaving chest, for the woman remained motionless... unmoving... still.
Yanking back the reins, Red came to a sideways and stuttering stop. Sliding hastily from the saddle, rushing the last few steps needed, he knelt hastily.
"Elizabeth!" Red hovered over Lizzy's prone form, holding himself in check to keep from touching the woman.
"Lizzy, talk to me!" Bracing his arms on either side of the woman, he leaned, listening for any sounds of her breathing.
"Ohh," Liz groaned weakly, her brow furrowing slightly.
"Baby..." Red moved his hand alongside hers, touching her soft skin. "Baby, talk to me.. where are you hurt?"
Both felt the heavy thrumming of hooves approaching, followed by the whinny of Silas' horse.
"Status!" Silas rushed over, crouching beside the fallen form.
"I don't know, I don't know!" Red shook his head, a helplessness overtaking the man, one he seldom felt in his life.
Silas moved closer, his large hands trailing slowly, carefully over her legs and arms. "Nothing's broken... nothing visible anyway." he grimly relayed.
Slowly bracing her hand, Liz moved towards Red.
"Don't! Don't move!" Red grasped her hip, stilling the woman. "Where do you hurt!"
"... My pride," Liz murmured dejectedly, rubbing her sore head."...Ouch." she grimaced, removing her hand.
Huffing a disbelieving snarl, Red exhaled shakily just as Mark and Francis arrived on scene.
"Is she hurt?!" Francis' panicked voice neared.
"Lister's on his way." Mark panted softly. "He says, don't allow her to move."
"Mark... you have gophers." Liz groaned her misery, attempting to glance up at the man.
Hastily stopping the movement, Red hissed the warning. "Don't you dare move, Elizabeth."
"Really, I'm okay." Liz assured, although she offered no other protest, remaining perfectly still.
Dr. Lister arrived moments later, rushing over at a fast clip.
Silas and the others stepped aside, out of the man's way, waving the gathering crowd back.
Mark assured guests Lizzy was talking and alert, Francis paced restlessly, looking back at his friend every few seconds.
"How you doing there, Elizabeth?" Lister kneeled beside the woman. Grasping her wrist in one hand, he felt along her neck with the other.
"I'm fine." Liz shifted her eyes up towards the man. "Just a little sore."
"I'm not feeling anything out of the norm," Lister said, examining the woman much like Silas had, "but I would like to transport you back to the hotel and run some x-rays to be sure there's nothing lurking."
"Is that really necessary?" Liz pouted forlornly.
"Yes, it's necessary." Red's stern tone brooked no argument. "You're getting checked, live with it."
A pickup truck pulled up containing Lister's nurse, and the needed supplies.
"I don't want you to move," Lister said. "You just let us do everything." the man smiled. "Once we check you out... you'll be free to go."
Making quick work of bracing Liz's neck and positioning the backboard, Red helped ease Lizzy to a prone position... finally seeing her sweet face come into view.
"Sorry..." she scrunched her nose apologetically. "I feel so stupid..."
"If it can happen..." Silas shook his head.
"I know!" Liz commiserated. "Right?!"
Red shook his head, leaning to kiss her. "I'm just glad you're all right."
Liz gasped, her frantic eyes searching as far as she could see.
"What? What's wrong?" Red grasped her hand.
"Cleo..." Liz shifted distressed eyes towards Red.
Red glanced at the animal in question, controlling his reactionary wince, for the horse still lay upon the grass, his own horse hovered beside it, pushing its snout along the mare's mane.
"Where's Cleo, is she okay?" Liz's lips trembled. "Is she hurt?"
Hearing its name, or perhaps sensing Lizzy's distress, the mare rolled to its side before finally finding its feet. It stood, stumbling a bit, before shaking off the unexpected tumble.
The steed turned slightly, as though supporting the mare's weight, before it completely righted itself.
The enormous creature snuffled loudly as it took a step towards Elizabeth.
Throwing an arm out, Red held off its approach, lest it step on Lizzy.
Lowering its head, the mare gently nudged Lizzy with its snout, smoothing the woman's wild hair.
Stroking the long face, Liz smiled as the horse's lips tickled her cheek. "It's all right, sweetheart..." she cooed soothingly. "We're okay."
Watching the staff ready the transport to move Lizzy, Francis hung his head woefully. "None of this would have happened if I knew how to saddle a damned horse!" he was positive of his facts.
Mark glanced at the guy. "Francis, Liz is fine, you did nothing wrong, okay."
Francis waved the effort aside. "Red would have been with her."
"Red wasn't with her." Mark pointed out.
"Neither was I!" Francis scowled. "I-I should have been..."
Mark smiled understandingly. "Liz is fine, and you will be fine, too. Come on, let's get a drink, it's on me."
"I want to stay." Francis was adamant.
"They'll be taking her to the infirmary... we'll go there. Come on." Mark cajoled his friend.
"Well, yeah... we can get Lizzy a drink. She loves those slush things." Francis nodded slowly.
Mark let the guy vent. "Okay, we could do that."
"I like the red ones." the young man continued, stretching his neck to see that Liz was being handled with extra care, which she was. "Oh, and maybe one of those pretzels with the dipping cheese. I'll even pay for extra..." Francis gamely offered.
"It's free, Francis." Mark's smile was indulgent.
"Oh, and maybe a Snicker bar. The four food groups will be represented with a Snicker bar." Francis brightened. "You know, Lizzy hates eating alone. Maybe we should get some stuff too, just to make her feel comfortable and all."
Mark nodded, holding his amusement. "How would she feel about a hot dog?" he questioned, his tone a dry one. "Hot dogs are good after you've fallen off a horse, I hear tell."
"I've heard that, too!" Francis warmed to the conversation. "Let's do that!"
Mark compressed his lips to hide his smile.
"Let's get crackin'!" Francis climbed into the cart. "Get all that stuff over to the infirmary... have it waiting for, Lizzy."
"Let's do that." Mark climbed into the driver's seat, firing the motor to life with but one last check to see that Elizabeth Scott was being handled in the manner expected... before turning the wheel.
Waiting for Lister to make the necessary adjustments to Lizzy's transportation, Red sat beside Elizabeth, holding her hand.
"You all right?" Red reached, stroking the dark hair from her eyes.
"Yeah..." she sighed, looking up to the deep blue sky and fluffy clouds overhead.
"They're almost done." Red assured, watching them backing the truck up to a more advantageous position.
"She secure?" Silas leaned, murmuring quietly to Red.
"For now," Red replied evenly. "We're going to get x-rays to confirm."
Nodding, Silas stepped, looking down at the woman. "... I won." he smirked.
"Like hell," Liz grumbled without hesitation. "You most certainly did not!"
Red's head dropped back, releasing an exasperated sigh for the conversation taking place... and that the people standing on the sidelines halted their actions, gripping their money in tight fists. Where before bets were being paid off.
"I want a rematch." Liz's surly tone demanded.
Money was snatched back as hope filled the air.
"Like fucking hell!" Red hissed his displeasure.
Groaning their disappointment, a collective sigh swept through as the crowd once again doled-out wins and losses.
"On the track..." Liz compromised, stilling the exchange of money once again. "We'll use the track."
All were anxiously awaiting some kind of verdict... any kind of verdict.
"You're a sore loser," Silas made remark.
"You're old," she countered automatically, bringing a smile to her guard's face. "Are you conceding?"
"You wish..." Silas scoffed at the very idea.
"You are conceding!" Red growled. "You're also shutting the hell up!"
Knowing Reddington's tone, and understanding what it implied... the crowd paid or gained their bets, eyes rolling collectively.
Giving the horse one final loving caress, Liz blew it an air kiss as she was lifted upward and Cleo was led slowly away.
Once situated, Red took her hand, smiling wanly. "You'll be fine."
Knowing Red was comforting them both, Liz just squeezed his fingers. "I know," she said. "You always see to that." she smiled softly at Red.
Leaning, Red tenderly placed his mouth to hers. "And will do so until the day I die."
"Let me puke." It was Silas' turn to roll 'collective eyes'.
"It's your fast ass that lost you the race, you know." Liz blithely shared her views on the outcome of the contest.
"I was a good furlong ahead of your scrawny ass." the man took exception as they gently lifted Liz aloft.
"Cleo likes to come from behind... like Seabiscuit." Liz threw the animal an affectionate glance.
"I like to come from behind, too... hell, I like to come, period." Silas shared freely. "Has nothing to do with me winning a race."
"Can we have just one conversation that doesn't involve your dick?" Red exasperated, feeling bad for the nurse who actually gasped at the crude remark.
"Yeah, no one is interested in that little thing." Liz giggled infectiously.
Red glanced at the woman suspiciously. "Doc... did you give her something?"
"Just a mild muscle relaxer..." The doctor shrugged.
"You've never seen my dick. How do you know its dimensions?" Silas called the woman's bluff.
"Yes, I did... in Las Vegas. It was hard to draw my attention away from that amazing feather hat but... I managed." Liz was clearly enjoying the blunt conversation.
The nurse frowned at Silas, curiosity getting the better of her.
"Just... don't ask." Red advised.
"Red's is so much better," Liz smiled dreamily, "... I like his cock... a lot." she tittered. "Take that however you want."
"Doc," Silas groaned his misery. "Can't you give her something... you know, like Chloroform?"
Lister lit up a cigarette, blowing the smoke out and away. "...Well.."
"You've seen Red's penis?" Liz looked up at Silas. "It's impressive, right?"
"Lizzy, please." Red wanted a medical evaluation. "Doctor, can we just go?"
He turned on the large guard hovering about. "Silas, dammit... leave her alone!"
"Me?!" the guard was astonished for the reprimand.
Red climbed in the truck bed, settling beside Elizabeth.
"This will take a while, we'll be going slow." Lister blew the smoke aside. "Just settle in for the ride."
"Get my horse, Silas!" Liz yelled out.
"I'm on damned vacation here!" the man called right back, but in the end, he trudged over retrieving the reins of all three horses, grumbling about his lot in life... even after a stable hand rushed over to assist the man.
Red sought Lizzy's hand, intertwining his fingers with the smaller, slender ones, his gaze a gentle one.
"... You gave me quiet a scare, baby." his heart was just settling down. "Please don't do it again."
"Yeah... let's talk about your penis again." Liz grinned up at the man. "That's a much more interesting subject."
Red's brow furrowed. "Are you okay? Really?"
"Oh, I'm fine." Liz waved a dismissive hand. "I could have gotten up and finished the–"
"Don't say it." Red warned.
Liz chuckled, gripping Red's hand in her own. "I love you, Red... I really do." She sighed lightly. "Thank you for giving a damn about me. I do appreciate the effort."
"It's no fucking effort, Lizzy." he growled. "It is a privilege."
She turned loving eyes towards the man, smiling happily.
Shaking his head, Red growled softly under his breath for the woman's impish look. Bracing his arm beside the woman, he leaned, kissing her full lips.
"I love you..." he murmured.