Focal Point

by Daniel Davies

(Lizzington) A dangerous serial killer targets Elizabeth Keen as the newest Blacklister hits too close to home for Red Reddington. She must rely on the one person her instincts tell her she can trust. Liz finds herself inexplicably drawn closer to the only man capable of protecting her from this insidious new threat. (Mature Content)

169. Sentimental Journey

AUTHOR NOTES: Thank you for being so patient with me, and offering support when I needed it most. Here is what we have completed so far. We hope to have the continuation posted soon!

---

Securing her sandal, Liz looked up as Red exited the closet. The man was casually dressed, for Red anyway, in khaki slacks and a lightweight crisply ironed white shirt.

"Lizzy, I want to talk to you about earlier." Red stated absently, fastening his watchband.

Straightening, Liz tensed. "...Okay."

"Relax... we're fine." Red glanced at the woman in the mirror. "Or at least, I'm assuming we are?"

Mulling over the question, Liz felt a slight apprehension take shape as she replayed events in her mind.

So intent on gaining Red's attention, she approached Aaron Scoffield on a whim. She'd been excited when Red reacted as hoped, saving her from a rather dull interaction by dismissing the interloper with only a few well-chosen words.

She's been so thrilled by Red's conduct, all other thoughts vanished upon entering their room.

It wasn't until just now, however, doubts set in... had her earlier exploits with Aaron Scoffield overstepped boundaries? Had she inadvertently projected the wrong intent? Had Red believed her truly interested in that man?

No, no... she brushed aside the thoughts as quickly as they came. Red was well aware she was very content and had no desire to alter what they had together. Of course, he was.

It was also no secret her past relationships, in the area of the bedroom, had been rather mediocre. She never broached the subject of more involved activities, let alone attempted what she had with Red.

At one time, she might have been embarrassed to admit she was a novice when it came to role playing or sex games, and still might be, were it not for Red's patience and openness to explore her sexuality and fantasies.

The man was everything a woman could hope for in a lover.

She was absolutely certain Red understood her reasons where Aaron Scoffield was concerned. He knew why she acted as she had.

Especially since she welcomed his advances and responded to him without reservation... allowing herself, and the man, freedom to play.

Or at least, she thought that was how everything came about.

A horrible thought occurred.

While Red often surpassed her expectations and made her fantasies flourish... she would hate to think she had not reacted as Red hoped. The thought made her grimace inwardly.

Though she was proud to admit, she broadened her vocabulary in the bedroom. She was still uncertain, even self-conscious, about how to respond beyond a few well-chosen phrases when push came to shove.

Was that what he meant? Was that what they needed to talk about?

Aside from responding to Red's gentle coaxing earlier, had her lack of vocal exchange unintentionally led him to believe he did not perform to her standards?

Was she not performing to his?

Taking mental note of the inadequacy, Liz decided to research methods which may allow her to express herself more freely in the future. Would that be enough, however?

She must take this opportunity to reassure Red she could do better.

Liz's cheeks flushed as images of their earlier playtime came in rapid succession, filling her with warmth, love, and desire.

"I had a really wonderful time." She stressed the words, then scowled for her inadequacies. That was not at all what she wanted to say. "I mean..."

Pushing upright from her perch, Red watched the woman slowly approach, her expression a beguiling one.

Turning, Red opened his arms to welcome her into his embrace, a bit bemused by her attitude, truth told.

"Did you?" He queried quietly.

Slowly wrapping her arms about the man's shoulders, kissing his chin. Lifting on her toes, Liz inched upwards, moving her lips along Red's in a light, teasing brush of promised intimacy.

"I enjoyed myself...very much." Her warm breath tickled his mouth. Capturing the soft surface, she found a position that fit nicely. Red had taught her that technique. Gently probe, take your time, enjoy the process... then establish contact.

Accepting the sensual caress, Red's mind ruminated on the facts laid before him.

While he was very aware Elizabeth enjoyed their lovemaking, as she had shown him in any number of ways...he had to admit, Lizzy's vehement approval of his earlier demeanor had him surprised.

After recent events, Red had been relieved Lizzy's response to his more demanding nature had been a positive one, but he assumed, given the intense circumstances at the time... she had merely accepted his need as a male, merely blowing off steam.

Could it be Lizzy was more than open to seeing that side of him, regardless of the situation?

Red was willing to be an active participant in exploring that particular pastime. What man would not be?

"... I see." Red nodded thoughtfully in response.

Sensing a sudden tension emanating from the man opposite her, Liz involuntarily held her breath as a hazy, dreamlike quality suddenly enveloped her body.

Some vague thing had shifted between them. The way he was looking at her now caused all sorts of reactions inside Liz's body.

The heat unfurling between Liz's thighs flared to life and spread like wildfire in response to the man's deep, rough voice.

Sensation burst from her core in a starburst. Tendrils of warmth rushed through her veins, leaving her limbs feeling heavy and tingling.

Lowering his gaze, Red watched Lizzy's slim fingers move their way down his pectoral.

"I wonder," Liz felt her way, "could you be persuaded to revisit that particular activity," she murmured the enticement, "given the right... incentive."

The sultry, provocative hint hung heavy in the air between them, stirring Red's interest, as well as his cock.

Red wasn't a novice when it came to such games. In his time, he assumed many roles suggested by many partners with an open-mind and willingness to learn the inner workings of the female psyche.

Elizabeth, on the other hand, had never been given the opportunity to explore.

Unsure at first how the woman would react, Red started small when introducing it into their repertoire.

Thankfully, Elizabeth had been an eager and receptive student when it came to role playing. Both enjoyed the scenarios put forth, and the results had been fun filled, erotic adventures.

But how far she wished to venture into those scenarios was another matter entirely.

Curious as to the parameters of this new facet in their dynamic, Red tested the waters.

"Enticing your lover to engage in any form of intimacy is of the utmost importance," Red began slowly, careful of his wording. "If that is the case here," he motioned to their intimate position, "I wholeheartedly approve of your methods."

Wrapping his arms about Lizzy's waist, Red caressed the woman's hip with a pronounced touch.

"...Stimulating their mind, as well as their body," he continued, alert to Elizabeth's demeanor, "is beneficial to creating a solid foundation for future... exploration."

"I agree." Liz agreed with every fiber of her being.

"It is imperative to," he continued, "reward your lover for their... compliance and obedience. It is a crucial part of the whole."

Liz's tummy flipped recalling how receptive she was to Red's demands earlier. "I can totally understand how it might be."

"Reenforcing positive behavior, results in positive results." Red explained, his voice lowering a notch. "Especially if one expects obedience."

Red searched Elizabeth's clear blue eyes, finding them open windows to her soul.

"For example, considering ours is a committed relationship," Red stated a fact, "I expect both loyalty... and obedience." He caressed the word.

Liz allowed the man to continue his thought process. "Of course, you would, it's only natural."

Red cautiously forged on. "With that said... I prefer you not speak to Scoffield again–"

"Okay," Liz interjected, smiling brightly.

Unaccustomed to Elizabeth being so agreeable, without valid reasons for his request, Red fell suspiciously silent, gathering his thoughts.

A few months ago, Lizzy's hurried acceptance and bright smile would have been a warning sign she planned to circumvent the obstacle he placed in her path.

Now... he wasn't so sure. What was more vexing, he found he enjoyed the mystery of it all.

Still, he was a man who prided himself in covering all bases, especially where Elizabeth was concerned.

"I did not like how he touched you." He explained his reasons for the request.

"I see." Liz's brows furrowed slightly. "No, wait. I'm confused." She grimaced. "We're just talking about Scoffield here, right?"

"What do you mean?" Red countered.

"What about Silas, say?" her mouth quirked comically. "Sometimes he touches me in weird ways. I don't mind it at all, but... do you mind it, cause I know he's just giving me the business. So Silas is fine, right?"

Red studied her evenly. "Are you giving me the business?"

"We are establishing boundaries here, aren't we?" Liz blinked innocently. "I like when you do. I like it a lot, actually." She smiled prettily. "I didn't know how much until recently."

Red considered all that was said. "And if I said Silas wasn't allowed to touch you... in weird ways?"

"That's fine," she crinkled her nose, "but you tell him, all right?"

"I can do that," he relented, for she had answered wisely, "but I have no real problem with Silas... or Francis, or any of your male friends."

"I don't want you upset with me, that's all." Liz leaned to his chest, lifting those blue eyes. "You would prefer no man touch me... like you touch me." She understood that part.

Visions of touching the woman filled Red's mind's eye in vivid technicolor; all of them intimate and sensual.

"I want to make sure there are no misunderstandings between us."

"If there is an issue... I will let you know." He assured confidently. "Is that a problem?"

"Not at all." Liz kissed slow, languid kisses along the cleft of Red's throat. "Whatever you say."

Curious to where this was going, Red replied how he originally intended. "Succinctly stated."

"Have I pleased you?" Liz lay her hands flat on Red's chest, stroking him.

"Very much so." Red praised her efforts.

"It's just that," she explained, "I wouldn't want you to think I'm being disloyal to you one little bit. Cause I'm not. I would never do that."

Liz flicked coquettish eyes upward to his suspicious ones.

"Really." He stated dryly.

"No, not at all." He was assured. "Just you wait and see."

Red held his expression, for the simple fact... he didn't know which expression to permit. Confusion, enjoyment... complete and utter bafflement.

"I can be a very good girl," she brushed her mouth against his, "...Sir." The word was a literal purr of respect.

Red's cock sprung to vivid life, his body stiffening in response to the blatant sensuality displayed. He cleared his throat gently, tempering his outward reaction.

Okay... well, that was unexpected. Shocked by the blatant flirtation, Red barely contained his astonishment, perhaps even disbelief.

"We will wait and see." He played along.

"What reward will I gifted?" Her husky tone aroused. "You said there would be rewards, correct?"

Replaying the last few moments, Red couldn't believe he'd missed the signs right in front of him.

So intent on gauging the level of experimentation the woman might be interested in exploring; he missed the fact Lizzy purposely directed the conversation to reference their earlier playtime.

Amid the excitement, lust and eagerness coursing through his veins, Red wasn't at all surprised he had been puzzled.

The woman, in her own way, was confiding a fantasy to him. This was the first moment he truly comprehended just how much Lizzy trusted him with a personal and private matter and exactly, to what extent.

"Good little girls usually get a special treat to suck on... don't they?" He queried, keeping his tone perfectly neutral.

"Like a lollipop?" Her earnest expression delighted the man. He was hard pressed to keep in role.

"No... but you'll enjoy it just as much." He managed... just.

Liz's eyes dropped to the outline of his cock bulging against his zipper. "I'm sure I will... if you say I will."

"I say you will." The man promised wholeheartedly.

Liz smiled happily, laying her head on the man's shoulder. "You are so good to me."

"It's not difficult, baby." He stroked her hair lovingly. "I enjoy taking care of you." Red confirmed, warming to the game. "I really do."

Liz smiled mischievously, kissing his chin erotically. "... And I love being good to you."

Not until Red, had she found a man's territorial side so... hot.

Others tried to play the game, but when compared to Red Reddington, they all failed miserably.

Out of the men she had been involved with, Red was the only one to put in the work to gain her trust.

Even as domineering as Red could be at times, he was able to compromise. He could see her side of an issue. It meant so much... so very much in a relationship.

He was so confident and willing to do just about anything to please her. He didn't feel the need to watch her every move or feel suspicious of every little thing she did. What freedom such an attitude allowed!

Well, Red did watch her every move... but not because of a lack of trust.

"Hello in there?" Red broke into the woman's reverie.

"Huh?" Liz blinked, refocusing her attention. "I'm sorry, what?"

"I said, you're not going to argue with me?" Red frowned. "You're not going to tell me I'm a domineering asshole."

She smiled softly, "...No."

"Why not?" Red wasn't certain he was comfortable with Lizzy not speaking her mind.

"Because you know you're being a domineering asshole," she placed her mouth to his, "and right now, that's not a problem. If it becomes one, I'll let you know."

Red felt a weight lift, knowing without doubt Lizzy truly accepted... him. With all his flaws and idiosyncrasies.

Granted, he had mellowed with age, but when he was as serious about his relationship as he was with Lizzy... he could be quite territorial. Not that it meant he didn't trust her.

He just didn't trust anyone else, and their desire to tread into his domain.

"Now who's spacing out?" Liz teased.

"Just thinking about... you." Red confessed.

"Good things, I trust." Liz arched a brow.

"Very good..." Red assured, his eyes perusing the woman's body appreciatively. "You look amazing."

The woman had opted for a lightweight button down that tied at her waist and the cutest little khaki shorts that showcased her gorgeous legs to perfection.

"Is that surprise I hear in your voice?" Liz murmured, bending to rummage through her bag. She cast him an, it better not be, look.

Red canted his head when the woman presented a perfect view of her rounded ass. "More like... delight. You have the best ass of any woman I know."

"You're damned right I do." She scowled darkly.

Stepping in behind her, Red ran his fingers along the small curve of ass cheek, which was revealed by the sultry action. "You can arouse me anytime you want... are you aware?"

Remaining in place, Liz allowed his touch, closing her eyes to the feel. "Nice to know."

"You... ready to go down?" Red's rough voice lowered to an unsteady whisper.

Liz looked over her shoulder, quirking a brow for the double entendre.

"I thought I had to earn that" She stood slowly, flicking her tongue along the pout of her mouth.

Reaching about the man, Liz grasped her wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. She held her smile for as long as she could.

Narrowing his eyes for her playfulness, Red stepped into the woman's sphere... swatting her bottom smartly. The sound a crisp, sharp cuff of discipline.

Red held his expression when the woman closed her eyes blissfully, then sighed.

Well, now... that was interesting.

Unlocking and opening the door, Red gestured Lizzy take the lead.

Offering the man a catlike grin, Liz sauntered past only to feel the warm embrace of Red's hand cupping her bottom, increasing the tingling vibration he had inflicted.

"Let's go," the man groused, "... before I decide to explore more of this delectable ass."

---

Liz stopped in her tracks. "What are all those people doing?"

From the massive foyer, the woman noted several shiny cars being loaded with luggage.

"Are... are they leaving?" she turned sad eyes Red's way.

"Well, honey, we are considered... seasonal guests." Red explained. "Mark has new, run-of-the-mill, business arriving and must prepare for their arrival."

Liz blinked her surprise.

"Mark shuts down the hotel for his business associates and friends for a couple weeks out of the year as a sort of... refuge." Red continued. "It has gotten a little out of hand in recent years and time has extended, but then, Mark never has done anything halfway. I thought I explained all this?"

If he had, the meaning was lost on Liz. "I wasn't aware we," she waved an encompassing hand, "were the only ones allowed here, I just assumed..."

She really hadn't thought about it until just now, or even noticed. There hadn't been any civilians in attendance, only people like Red and the others in their group.

"Within the week," Red sighed, "things will wind down and families and newlyweds will take our place."

"Are we leaving... today?" Liz swallowed around the lump in her throat. "I mean," she gripped Red's hand, sorry to see their time end so abruptly, "by the time we've packed and everything, we wouldn't get back to DC until late night." She reminded, hoping Red would take the hint.

Just a few more hours... maybe?

"Let's play it by ear." He was happy Lizzy seemed to love this place so. "Besides, Michael has my plane... we're stuck here."

Liz had forgotten Michael and Susan had taken their plane, but the couple were due to arrive back later on in the day.

"Yeah," Liz nodded, searching Red's face, "so we have a little time yet?"

"Tomorrow..." Red murmured softly, "we'll go... tomorrow."

Blinking rapidly, Liz hid the sudden rush of heat pooling in her eyes. Even after everything that happened... so many wonderful things occurred between her and Red that overshadowed those incidents.

She had loved their time here so much... it hurt to leave this place.

This place, this safe haven, where she and Red could just... be.

"We'll plan our departure after lunch, do you think?" Red sought Lizzy's input.

"...Yes," Liz smiled tremulously, "yes, that sounds okay."

"...Great," Red kissed the woman's sad mouth, feeling her disappointment as deeply as his own.

Studying the woman's forlorn expression, Red's eyes softened. "Lizzy, we can go somewhere else or... stay on here, if you like."

"No... no." She sighed. "It's just been so wonderful here. I hate to see it end." she sighed again. "We should let Mark know how much this place... this time has meant to us."

Drawing the woman into his arms, Red held her for some long moments, reminiscing about all the amazing moments they experienced together.

He felt Lizzy's sadness acutely, for he too wished more than anything to stay here, where life was lighthearted and carefree.

Taking a breath, Red gathered his wits, attempting a smile to brighten the mood.

"There are still activities planned." Red stated, motioning. "Not many, but for the die-hard fanatics." He teased. "A major card tournament is taking place on the top floor, for instance."

"And you're not in it?" Liz voiced her surprise.

Red grimaced. "Gin rummy isn't my speed."

Liz grinned. "Yeah... it doesn't seem your style."

"Did that sound narcissistic?" He quipped. "Come on, Francis and the others are out on the lawn, wreaking havoc. Let's see what mischief we can get into."

Fighting to get her emotions under control, Liz straightened, brightening her smile. "Come on... let's go play."

Nodding, Red placed a small kiss on the woman's forehead. Grasping her hand in his, they walked across the foyer, into the bright sun of the playing fields. Birds' song floated on the warm summer wind.

Red noted a scissortail flycatcher, pointing it out to Lizzy. "He's crossed the Red River. A Texan is gonna shoot him out of the sky if he doesn't hightail it back to Oklahoma."

"How do you know so much about birds?" She quizzed. "How do you know so much about... everything under the sun?"

"Dembe never lets me hear the end of it when I get something wrong," he chuckled, "so I ingest trivia shit to keep him grounded... and off my ass."

Liz giggled. "Look at this stuff. Where do we start?"

The booths and tents reminded her of a State Fair, all offering different forms of activity and amusement.

"Is that the guys?" she squinted to see.

Red handed over her sunglasses. "Hell, let's do them all." He threw caution to the wind. "But we're supposed to congregate at the cornhole toss." He glanced quizzically down at Lizzy's upturned face. "Why do they call it that? No corn is involved."

She giggled again. "Ask Dembe when we see him."

"We might see him only sporadically. He's so damned competitive, he can't stand the rest of us dawdling around... and not taking the games seriously." Red air-quoted. "He comes, he goes."

"So..." Liz gestured to the layout, "is there a method to this madness?"

"Knowing Mark, everything is alphabetically set-up." Red chided, leading her to the cornhole toss, meeting their companions.

Francis ran ahead of the crowd, handed Red a fresh beer then greeted Lizzy with a meaningful noogie.

"Stop it!" She pinched the man's side meaningfully.

"Oww!" The guy winced. "You play rough!"

Mark rubbed anxious hands together, having sauntered on sight as well. "Pussy..." he shook his head for Francis' whining. "Okay, gents, I'm thinking a thousand bucks a game this year."

"You're in for a world of disappointment if you expect to see this lot fork over that much." Red predicted, enjoying Lizzy's muffled snort.

"I can do that." Francis stepped up to the plate, fishing for his wallet.

Daniel nodded, setting aside the beer cooler he had. "You're on, partner."

"How much!" Ben was aghast, but reluctantly joined in the jovial betting pool.

Mark swept a gracious hand, flipping the gathered notes with nimble fingers. "I'll be the banker."

"What a shocker." Red chuckled.

"Me first!" Francis pushed to the head of the clustered group.

"I think it's, ladies first, Francis." Mark reminded tactfully.

"That's only on shipwrecks!" The guy disdained. "I'm going first."

"Let him." Liz swept a gallant hand. "He can't hit the hole... or that's what's circulating around the water-cooler these days."

Francis ignored the laughter at his expense. "What have you been saying, honey?"

Missy managed an indignant gasp. "I didn't say anything, sweetie! Honest!" she scowled her pique. "I don't know how they found out... really!" She patted Francis' chest soothingly.

Which brought up another round of chuckles at the young man's expense.

Sighing heavily, Red leaned against a nearby tree, watching the drama unfold.

The man scowled crossly down at his girlfriend, dismissing all said. "It only happened that one time... okay, twice." Francis amended. "But Nora agreed, it was the pressure to get it right!" He insisted.

"Nora?" Melissa's scowl deepened considerably.

Hastily waving his hand across his neck, Francis signaled the others to shut the hell up... or slit his throat, Red couldn't quite tell.

"Nora, part-time cook," Silas motioned haphazardly with his beer, "part-time succubus... or so we're told."

Francis had the grace to be bothered. "Oh, you guys!" He grumbled. "Fine... go ahead and go, Lizzy. See if I care."

Liz offered to relinquish her spot to one of the other ladies, but everyone declined. No one wanted to follow Francis' debacle.

Girding her loins, Liz stepped up to the fore. "If I screw this up, Apollo here will never let me hear the end of it." She quipped.

"Apollo... try Adonis." Francis disdained to a lesser god where his image was concerned. "And yeah, I will..." he frowned his confusion, "or won't... whichever!"

Stepping behind the line, Liz took aim, tossing the heavy bag the distance... and missed. Tossing the next bag, Liz groaned as it rimmed off the hole and slid down the slick surface, plopping unceremoniously to the ground.

"Dammit!" She cursed her luck, or lack thereof.

"Oh, this is priceless!" Francis squirmed his jubilation. "She can't hit the target! She can't hit–"

"Shut up, you nitwit!" Liz offered over an Italian gesture of which Antonio would be proud. "There are blind men with better directional navigation than you."

""Yeah, well, they feel their way!" Francis countered smartly.

Red cut the boy a suffering look, which spoke volumes. "A wise move on their part perhaps?" he muttered the hint sotto voce.

Francis frowned before understanding took hold. "Oh... oh, yeah, right." He nodded slowly. "Good point."

Swinging her arm once again, concentrating hard, Liz held her breath as the bag soared down the straightaway, then bounced off the sloped surface.

"Son-of-a-bitch!" she grumbled her discontent. "This game is rigged." She chuckled, grimacing her disappointment.

"Baby," Red chuckled, stepping up behind the woman, "move over a little."

Wrapping his arm about her waist, he nudged her over a couple inches. Taking her hand in his, he swung it back, releasing the bag in a gentle arc. It flew through the air... landing squarely in the hole.

"Hey! That's cheating!" Ben pointed with his beer bottle. "Cheater... cheater!"

"Your point?" Silas was stumped, opening another beer.

"You play your way," Red suggested. "I'll play mine."

Snapping their mouths shut, the men looked at one another as comprehension took hold. They could flirt with their girls, get close to them and show them their manly skills... enjoying a lengthy version of foreplay all day long.

"Hey, can we do that?" Ben checked with Mark.

"Whatever floats your boat." Mark shrugged carelessly.

And just like that, the day itself just got a whole lot better.

Liz had no complaints, that was for sure. Nestling her bottom against Red's groin, they tossed their final bag, which hit the mark.

The woman bounced in place, clapping joyous hands. "This is so fun!"

Grabbing her slushy out of the ice chest, Red handed it to the woman as she came to stand alongside him.

"Are you having fun?" she beamed brightly, bringing a smile to Red's face.

"Oh, I'm having a blast." He acquiesced.

The men took the stage, ready to show off their own techniques.

"What the hell are you doing?" Danny scowled as Francis wound up a pitch, just like one would see on an all-star game.

"What the hell does it look like I'm doing?" Francis chucked the bag as though throwing a winning pitch for the major leagues.

The group watched in awe as the bag sailed through the air before it dropped directly into the hole, albeit a bit on the awkward side.

Raising his arms in victory, Francis jabbed the air. "Yes! Yes! Suck it, losers!"

"Yeah, let's see you do it again, Superfly." Ben said, swigging on his beer, pulling another wad of bills. The other men instantly joined in on the bet.

Drawing back, Francis let another one go then frowned when it shot past the stand entirely, landing at length on a picnic table a good hundred yards away, knocking over someone's drink.

Ben collected his winnings jovially.

"I'll get the next one," Francis had not lost hope, "I was too wound up on that one. Everyone is entitled to a mistake now and then."

Stepping in behind Lizzy, Red wrapped his arms about her waist, shaking his head as the boy tried again. Nobody bothered to bet this time. All knew the outcome.

All watched the bag fly aloft, then fall trance-like downward, hitting the wood soundly before sliding lamely to the ground.

"Shit!" Francis cussed his vexation. "She's right! This game is fixed."

"Take it like Adonis would, Francis." Liz taunted. Her smile widened when Red laughed softly in her ear.

Quickly flipping the woman off, Francis readjusted his stance, literally toeing the line, then gently tossed the bag... missing the entire platform by a foot, to the bystanders' good-natured ribbing.

"These bags are defective." Francis muttered his discord, inspecting the objects critically.

"I think you're defective." Mark chimed in. "There isn't anything wrong with my equipment."

Narrowing his eyes, Francis rushed for the platform. He stood directly over the hole, letting the bag drop from his fingers... missing the target completely.

"What in the fucking hell!" Francis bitched, his mouth falling agape, much to the group's amusement.

"Get the hell out of the way." Daniel grabbed the bags, then took his place.

He did much better, missing on three out of the ten bags. He even taunted Francis on the last bag, throwing it carelessly over his shoulder.

Red stifled his grin when Francis hissed his disgruntlement and Danny shifted a surprised glance his way... when the shot actually hit its mark.

"Kiss my ass." Francis grumbled. "All of you! I hate this game."

"It's not overly fond of you, either." Ben muttered his belief.

Taking the bags handed him, Red sauntered to the line, tossing one bag after another with ease, each falling effortlessly into the hole.

"It's like he's blessed by the gods." Francis wailed his dismay. "He's gotta be cheating somehow." It was lamented. "I just can't prove it."

"Or," Red let another bag fly, hitting his mark, "...I'm just that good."

"No, you're not." Francis begged to differ. "No one is that good!"

"I am." Silas remarked, opening another Coors. "And Dembe... Joe sometimes, well, when he's sober, anyway."

"You can talk." Danny had noted the guard's consumption rate. "Where the hell are you putting all those beers, man?" He wondered. "I'd have had to piss a couple bottles back."

"If you can't keep up, junior," Silas smirked suggestively at Danny's girl, "hand that cooler over to the 'A' team."

Daniel rolled his eyes. "You can have my beer, man. You ain't getting anywhere near my woman."

"We'll see." Silas took a refreshing swig.

"Tone it down, man whore." Liz quietly sneered her disgust.

"Or what?" Silas taunted, smirking his amusement.

"I'll tell Samar," Liz hissed the warning, knowing her guard's kryptonite, "what a cheap slut you are, that's what!"

Turning his ear, Red listened to the hushed dialogue behind him fall silent after Lizzy's whispered threat. Tsking quietly, he returned his attention to the game at hand.

Silas' mouth snapped shut, his eyes narrowing.

Jerking her chin upright, Liz grinned triumphantly. "That's what I thought!"

"I'm gonna break his concentration." Francis hurried to a position behind the game platform. Whereas he began all sorts of comical antics, cat-calls and commotions, all designed to cause Red to miss a shot.

Red stared, transfixed for a spell, amused by the boy's shenanigans and the variety of skill displayed.

"Hey! Isn't that cheating!?" Liz laughed her delight when Francis began dancing and shimmying in place.

"There is nothing in the rules about not taunting other players." Mark sniggered when Francis spun in small circles, then performed a move that would put the fan dancer Sally Rand to shame.

Throwing the bag, hard, Red hit Francis in the chest. The object ricocheted off Francis, bouncing directly into the hole.

"Ouch!" Francis squawked, rubbing his chest. "Should that count? That shouldn't count! I acted as backboard!" He pointed to the fallen bag.

"Yes, it counts." Mark waved the man aside. "So move your big ass. Red's got a couple more shots."

Moving to Liz's side, Daniel leaned. "See if you can distract him. There's good money in it, if you do."

"I won't do it for money." She giggled. "But... I will try my luck."

"You're still a team player! I'll pass the word." Danny grinned.

Waiting until Red lined up his next shot, Liz moved closer, releasing a soft, quivering moan, closely mimicking the sound she made during orgasm.

Hearing the unexpected, but ever so familiar, sound of Lizzy's warbling sigh, Red allowed the bag to slip from his fingers too soon... missing the hole by inches.

Those good 'friends' gathered, relentlessly giving the man grief he so richly deserved.

Red took it in his stride, his interest for Lizzy, and Lizzy alone.

Liz smiled slowly at the man opposite her. "Hey, Reddington... want to see something really cool?" She pushed her luck.

Rolling the bag in his hand, Red's already smoldering gaze caressed the curves of Lizzy's body... a slow, wicked smile lifting his sensual mouth.

"Already seen it..." Red's husky tone deepened with the provocative statement.

"Bet I can make you smile," she taunted, "...and mean it."

Fiddling with the buttons on her shirt, Liz waited until she had Red's undivided attention before popping them open, slowly, one at a time.

"Close your eyes, kids," Silas yawned his disinterest, "the cops are gonna haul mom and dad off for lewd and lascivious conduct."

"I find your bet," Red's attention drifted downward, as the buttons revealed more skin, "to be an intriguing one."

"I thought you might." Liz's mouth slowly curved into a catlike grin.

"I bet," Red flicked his eyes upward, "... I can do the same to you."

Hesitating in her movement, Liz blinked, comprehending the challenge.

Throwing the stupid bag over his shoulder, Red stepped hastily forward.

Seeing his meaning, Liz gasped, taking off across the grass, giggling infectiously.

Red side-stepped the woman, cutting her escape route off, his hands securing Lizzy's slender waist.

Liz whooped as she was brought effortlessly to the ground, laughing her delight.

"Well played." Red whispered for her alone, nuzzling her neckline lovingly. "I want to fuck you so badly right now."

Liz settled, her arms lifting about his neckline. "I should hope so." She sighed blissfully, the warmth of his body filtering through her clothes.

"You'll pay for this... just saying." Red promised.

"That's okay." Liz sing-songed her head. "I won big time on your last shot."

"Break it up." Mark passed by the contended couple. "I'll have the cops here otherwise." He moved on, counting his winnings, having bet big on Francis' downfall.

Red sighed, knowing a lost moment when he lived through one.

"I am a cop." Liz whispered the joke to Red, holding her amusement admirably.

"A cop with really nice tits." Red cupped her breast, his thumb easing the nipple into a tight erection.

Lizzy gasped, then giggled all the more. "I do..." she glanced at the objects of interest. "I mean, they really are nice, don't you think?"

Helping the woman up, Red helped dust the grass from her clothes. His attention shifted to the rounded surface of Lizzy's derriere.

Swatting her bottom playfully, Red grunted wistfully. "Nice tits... and a fantastic ass."

Pushing her bottom back into his touch, Liz smiled happily as Red instinctively curved his palm to her form.

Leaning into the man's chest, she placed her mouth to his, flicking his lip with her tongue. Cupping her bottom in his large hand, Red dragged her closer, enjoying the woman's soft, airy sigh of contentment.

Vibrating with sexual tension, Liz barely noticed when Red stepped back, dutifully slapping wads of cash he lost into various hands or that Mark had disappeared at some point.

The man appeared a moment later on a raised deck, yelling out over the field for those wishing to participate in the football game to congregate.

Taking her hand, Red pulled Lizzy after him until he felt a slight resistance.

"W-We're staying?" Liz questioned everything, including Red's sanity.

"I don't see why we shouldn't." Red held his expression, knowing damn well why the woman was asking.

The way Lizzy's body vibrated, and her sweet scent enveloped him, he would have to be a damn fool to not be aware of the woman's heightened arousal.

"Do you have any objections?" Red asked, grabbing a provided lawn blanket for their use.

Liz's brows furrowed critically. "Well, now that you mention it..." She held her breath when the man stepped into her space, holding her eyes hypnotically.

"Delayed gratification is a wonderful thing, Lizzy." Red interrupted, warming to the fact. "Foreplay is a delightful tool that heightens all the senses."

Skimming his fingers down her arms, Red's own ardor calmed somewhat when Lizzy's skin erupted with goose flesh.

"Don't you agree." He leaned, kissing Lizzy's sweet pout.

Closing her eyes, Liz reluctantly had to agree. Just this last hour, her state of awareness where Red was concerned was magnified exponentially.

"One last game for us, baby." Red coaxed the woman to play. He kissed her mouth leisurely, nuzzling her apple cheeks lovingly. "Can you do that for me... for us?"

"I... I think so." Liz replied breathlessly, accepting Red's warm mouth once more.

"Good girl..." Red grunted roughly, soothingly rubbing his hands up and down the length of her arms in a slow caress.

Allowing Lizzy time to gather her wits, Red softly kissed her neck until she gradually released her tight hold on his fingers. He smiled when the woman finally lifted her crystalline blue eyes to his, ready once more to face the world around them.

Taking her hand, Red led Lizzy to the playing field, enjoying the comfortable, serene silence between them.

There was a quiet contentment blanketing them now. The sexual tension was thick.

Whatever the case, this was one bet he wouldn't wager on...

Unfurling the blanket beneath a shade tree, Red took Lizzy's hand, gingerly lowering her to the ground.

Threading his fingers through Lizzy's long hair, Red smiled when the woman lifted into his touch, closing her eyes to the feel-good sensation.

He was disappointed when all the ladies who had already picked a spot to watch the game, began migrating their blankets towards his and Lizzy's location.

He wanted a more secluded spot but sighed mentally for all ready, Lizzy's face was radiant.

She loved spending time with her own kind. Red would give her that much. Crowds had never dampened his style before, and they wouldn't now.

Shifting his attention, Red nodded when Francis waved, pointing to the refreshments and snacks available.

"Hold down the fort." Red murmured. "I'll be right back." he promised.

Nodding silently, Liz watched the man go, her mind quiet for once.

Closing her eyes, she inhaled the warm breeze, relaxing further.

She loved this place.

She wondered on their arrival how anyone could 'love' Texas with its wide-open spaces; or its rolling hills of grasslands that go on for mile after mile. That no one seemed to mind houses being few and far between, or the scarcity towns with their comical names.

But sitting here in this lovely field with its abundance of flowers in a rainbow of colors that stretched as far as the eye could see... it was as if God had planned this natural beauty just for her.

The hypnotic, whispering rustle of leaves drew her attention upwards to the tall, stately trees frolicking in the stiff breeze. The lush foliage spread shade across the acres before melding into a dense and mystical forest.

Liz knew inside that shaded oasis, cascading waterfalls rippled and babbled down rock formation, offering unimaginable peace and tranquility.

She and Red had picnicked beside one of nature's natural arbors sculptured out of the most vivid green vines, wild roses and honeysuckle. Its delicate petals, startling colors and aromatic scent created an amazing scene to delight the senses.

Rays of sun through limbs overhead flickered over her shoulders and cheeks, warming her skin, if not her soul.

Sweet, balmy winds played along her flesh before lifting her feather-soft hair into a billowing dance of hypnotic twists and swirls.

Leaning back on her arms, Liz smiled, feeling the earth at her fingertips. Smoothing her hand along the lush emerald green blades of shade grass, she giggled softly as it tickled her palms.

Reaching for the profusion of wildflower within reach, her fingers gently traced the delicate petal, entranced by the yellow tipped edge giving way to hues of red.

The desire to pluck the small, perfectly shaped bloom was more than she could bear. To destroy something so wild and free... no, no, she could not do that.

Lifting her face to the sun trickling through the leaves, she basked in the tranquility surrounding her.

How she would hate leaving this place.

She hoped there would be many years in the future to return to this magical locale Mark had created. But right now, the thought of leaving filled her with sadness. Melancholy emotions inundated.

So much happened here.

Bad things happened here, yes.

But those incidents were somehow overshadowed by the wonderful events that occurred after the fact.

All of which left her feeling stronger, both emotionally and physically.

She also made friends here. Deep, lasting relationships she knew would carry forth even after she and Red left.

Most importantly, here in this utopia... she found a side of Red she didn't know existed.

They had grown so close here; sharing so many of their hopes and dreams with one another.

They had made sweet, passionate love under the stars, in the privacy of their rooms... Red had opened himself to her, trusting she would respond in kind.

Though she had found comfort and safety in Red's embrace before, it wasn't until recent events pushed her to the brink that she allowed herself to rely on his strength and perseverance.

Liz didn't know why God had given her Red Reddington as a soulmate, but she decided long ago not to question such good fortune... only revel in it.

To spend her days and nights beside such a man, Liz knew she had been blessed.

That Red seemed as content to be by her side, made her feel on top of the world.

For the first time, she felt... complete.

Even though they would have to return to their normal lives soon, Liz knew she would cherish the memories made here in this fairytale land until her dying day.

Normal life with Red would never be boring or mundane, she knew that.

She was more than eager to begin their life as husband and wife.

The very thought they had new memories to create and adventures to explore made her heart beat joyously and feel a sense of anticipation the likes of which she had never experienced.

Even as thoughts of visiting far away and exotic places with Red filled her imagination, none would hold as special a place in her heart as Mark's sanctuary.

It was here that she and Red had nurtured and strengthened their bond and became a combined unit with one heart.

It was here that they fell hopelessly in love... even deeper than they first realized.

It was this place of retreat that had given her so much...

---

Waiting for their drinks, Red's eyes scanned the open fields with a certain contentment... and melancholy.

Even after all that happened since their arrival, Red felt it was the right decision to come here; to bring Lizzy to this retreat.

It bothered him still what the woman had been subjected to, but he wondered, did something good come of it? Elizabeth appeared to have gained a deeper understanding of his world and the danger it presented. Which, in turn, strengthened the woman's fortitude and mental acuity.

Good traits in his book.

Shifting his attention towards Elizabeth, his brow furrowed slightly, noting the woman sat silent amongst the ladies chattering beside her.

To his eye, it looked as though Lizzy was unaware of their presence at all.

She sat wordlessly, her attention riveted on a near distant point.

Following the line of sight, Red felt his anxiety ease as he noted Silas off to the side, within reach of his charge, as always.

The large man stood, leaning on a fence rail. His muscle corded arms rested atop the tier, his foot hiked casually on the lower.

Following the guard's line of sight, Red's brow furrowed once more when he realized, it led back to Lizzy... and not her point of interest.

Making his way over to Silas' location, in time, Red adopted a similar stance.

The silence was not an uncomfortable, or even tense one, so Red decided to observe a spell.

His eyes swept Lizzy's small form, their depths softening.

Red allowed himself to enjoy the beauty before him with admiration, openly caressing the curve of her tanned legs on up to her serene expression with a loving gaze.

The long, lush hair rippled like rich silk from the breeze coming off the South ridge.

"What are we doing?" Red murmured sedately. He could stand here for hours in truth, watching Lizzy simply do nothing. It brought him peace, he realized.

"We're not doing anything." Silas had not once taken his attention from his charge.

"How long has she been like that?" Laying his forearms along the top rail, he interlaced his fingers.

Silas shrugged. "Does it matter? She's happy..."

Red's gaze graced the image of the beautiful woman sitting so quietly in the midst of the lovely field of flowers.

"No," he admitted, "no... it doesn't matter."

The silence returned for a beat.

"But see," Red had a dilemma on his hands, "she looks content there," he motioned aimlessly with his interlocked fingers, "but this will be the final games of the season, and I knew she would not want to miss saying a proper farewell to her newfound friends."

Silas didn't see an issue. "Of course, you have to drag her to the game." he rolled his eyes. "It's tradition, and I'm thinking this place will become important to you assholes down the line." The man knew well enough. "She would also kill you dead if you made her miss all the fun and frivolity."

Red snapped his head towards the guy. "Fun? Frivolity?"

"Hey, everyone has one last chance to even the score, get in a last punch." Silas shrugged massive shoulders. "Sometimes things just get a little out of hand."

"Like last year?" Red's face carefully hid his incredulity. "When five players had to be carried off the field on stretchers?"

Silas turned his head, his expression oblique.

"It's supposed to be a game of flag football." Red stated. "A friendly little get together so the women can exchange addresses and last-minute gifts of farewell."

"Best laid plans." Silas returned his interest to Elizabeth Keen, who had laid back into the sweet-smelling clover field.

She stared wistfully up at a clear blue sky with its wispy clouds of floating imagination.

"That one," Silas pointed, "looks like my penis."

"Yeah," Red argued, "overblown and misdirected."

Silas chuckled. "That's a good one." The man pushed off the railing and turned without another word, taking a couple steps.

Red watched the guy go, sighing. "I guess it's my watch then."

"That, yes," Silas kept his tone even, "but more importantly, your woman will tell you she's parched... and awaiting your return with her slush."

Red looked around absently, cursing under his breath. "Dammit... where the hell..."

Sighing for Red's scattered thinking, Silas shoved the man towards the stand... intent on procuring himself another beer.

If not saving Red's hide.

---

Red's laughter broke Liz from her quiet meanderings, bringing a smile to her own face.

That man had the most sensual, disturbingly erotic laugh God ever created... at least to Liz's ears.

"The way you two were just lost in your own little world," Emma giggled infectiously, interrupting Liz's private thoughts, "I'm surprised you two came to the game."

"Red has a plan." Liz shared. "Just like half the guys here, I would imagine."

Both ladies tittered.

Chuckling to herself, Liz nodded inwardly, her earlier thoughts all coming together.

Maybe they did feed off one another's joy... and sexual tension. What was wrong with that? One thing was for certain. Where before she had been dreading the moment's arrival, she now couldn't wait to see how the day ended.

"The man is a genius!" Liz muttered to no one in particular.

"Huh?" Emma frowned questioningly. Bunching up a couple towels under her head, she lay back, then looked at Lizzy, waiting.

Shaking her head, Liz smiled. "Nothing, just woolgathering."

Lifting her chin, she breathed in as the warm breeze hit her face, whipping her long hair about in a lyrical frenzy.

"It's such a pretty day..." she leaned back on her arms, basking in the lazy summer day.

"It is," Emma commiserated.

Both looked out at the deep blue of the sky just beyond the dark green edge of the Southern Oak looming overhead.

"That cloud reminds me of something." Emma squinted up at the sky, her voice whimsical.

Liz bit her lip to keep from laughing for the phallic shaped cloud. "Yeah... Silas would say, his dick."

Emma's brow puckered quizzically as she stared back at the white fluff, sniggering under her breath. "It's... very impressive."

Liz nodded, arching a wry brow for the cloud moved onward. "It gets around a bit too, I hear tell."

Giggling their amusement, both trailed off as a shadow fell over Liz's pretty face.

A tiny, secretive smile played about her lips as she squinted up at the new arrival.

Distracted by the ladies beside her, Emma hastily chattered away, leaving Liz and Red to their own devices.

"You're blocking my sun, fella." Red's amazing cologne drifted on the breeze. "Gonna tell my fiancée, he'll beat the living shout of you for disturbing my space."

"Pretty bad hombre, huh." Red sat their drinks down, his legs straddling Lizzy's prone figure. The man simply enjoyed the view of the delicious bumps, curves and little peak of the tiny nipple shoving against the lightweight shirt she had chosen this fine day.

"Oh, he'll have no trouble kicking your ass whatsoever." Liz sighed blissfully. "So," her index finger swept gracefully in a slow arc, "...move aside."

"What would your fiancé do if I just," Red shrugged aimlessly, "oh, I don't know, pushed those cute little shorts out of my way and fucked you raw, right here and now on God's green acres."

Liz slowly lifted her eyes, a definite invitation within the sultry blue depths. "One way to find out."

Red... grinned. "I could drag you into those bushes over there," he gestured, "we could have a pretty good time. I'm just saying."

"I've always been a nature lover." She quipped. "I would like to mention, however, there's a perfectly good picnic table right there that isn't so... prickly."

Red stared at the table in question, all sorts of debauched visions coming to mind.

Liz's eyes ran the width and length of the man's ever enlarging penis imprinted under the fabric of his slacks.

"That cloud up there," Liz made mention, "looks like Silas' penis." She wanted to play, for her heart was light and carefree.

Red didn't bother to glance over his shoulder. "How the hell do you know what Silas' penis looks like?"

"He flops it out at a moment's notice... says it's a flirting technique." She pulled a face, lifting her hands innocently. "How quickly you've forgotten Vegas. Everyone under the neon lights of Sin City saw the man's privates at one time or another during our stay, I'm sure."

"I really don't want to talk about," Red sat, resting his arm on his bent leg, "least of all be forced to think about... Silas' dick, if it's all the same to you."

"We could walk the gardens." Liz cuddled to the man's chest.

"So you could point out sticks that resemble your guard's nether regions?" Red pulled her close, his arms holding tightly to her small waist.

"This is our last day."

Red cocked his head, seeking her features. "Are you sad?"

Liz sighed her doldrums. "Sad, yes, but... more." She smiled happily. "So much more, Red."

They sat in companionable silence, Red sensing she needed a moment to gather her thoughts.

"When you brought me here, I was a little deflated... skeptical at first." Liz sought his fingers.

Red's brows furrowed.

"Paris, Rome," she teased, "Bora Bora... Coney Island. There were so many places to choose."

Red watched her worry his fingers.

"And you picked... Texas." She giggled. The blue eyes sought his finally. "Who knew how perfect it would turn out to be for us. I hope you feel the same way."

"I feel the same way." He brought her fingers to his lips. "I was hoping I made the right choice."

"You made the right choice." Her eyes softened. "And now, having to realize we have to go..."

He shook his head. "We don't have to–"

"No, it's time." The woman sensed as much. "I'm missing Nora... Antonio and Maria."

"And I'm missing fucking you in the bushes." He teased to lighten the mood.

"I know I'm perfect," Liz countered, "but I'm not up to Eve's standards."

"Ah, back to nature, I see... good!" Red clapped his hands together, eager to play. "And I beg to disagree. You could prove to be my downfall... not that I'm complaining."

"And what is my downfall?" Liz questioned.

"I believe in your case," Red's eyes twinkled, "it would be snake in origin."

"The snake in this instance," Liz slyly rubbed her hand along the man's crotch, "it wouldn't be trying to trick me into committing a sin... would it?"

"You say trick... I say, tempt." Red begged to differ, then shrugged. "The only sin we're committing is enjoying a bit of lovemaking before marriage," he admitted, "but we plan to rectify that oversight... don't we."

Liz flushed happily at the reminder. "... We do."

She glanced surreptitiously at the bushes, her lashes fluttering. "But to do it... right here out in the open, where anyone could see."

Red, too, side-glanced at the vast shrubbery. "Only for God's eyes, baby... I swear."

"And Silas'." Liz made mention.

Red scowled darkly. "What is it with you and that guy? Should I be concerned?"

Liz laughed musically... then gaily... then almost maniacally.

"Okay, settle down." Red loved the sound of her laughter, especially at Silas' expense. He held his smile. "I'm suitably reassured."

Liz's laughter died a natural death finally. "Oh, you make me laugh." She rested back against him comfortably. "I meant, when would something as sordid as that pass Silas' attention?"

"Good point." Red did hire the man to remain observant. Needless to say, sneaking Lizzy off to make like bunnies in the wilds would most assuredly land on Silas' radar.

"So, is this the last of what's on the agenda for the day?" Liz asked.

"By the end of the day," Red had a goal, "I will hopefully tempt you to frolic nude in the great outdoors."

"You like to watch too!" Liz pretended shock. "I should mention, I already like to frolic in the nude, almost anywhere." She shrugged. "Maybe I was a nudist in another life."

"As long as you are one in this lifetime as well." He murmured roughly in her ear.

Turning in his arms, Liz cradled the man's face in her palms. "I love a man who doesn't stifle my freedom of expression."

"You make my dick thrum with sexual energy and pulsating tension." He shared, the middle finger of his hand gently massaging the center of Lizzy's palm. "Have I mentioned?"

She balled up her palm into a fist, giggling. "Stop that.."

"Why should I?" Red reached for her hand, but she playfully prevented the contact. "I want to make you come."

Liz gasped, her center heating nicely. She squirmed in his hold.

"I think you need it." The man sensed as much. "All afternoon, I've anticipated the high I feel when I slip into your humid cradle," Red shared his fantasies, "and visualizing how my body moves over yours."

Liz's breath caught as she sensed the ghost impression of Red's weight bearing down on her as his cock moved relentlessly in her body. She squirmed about restlessly.

"I can damn near taste your arousal. Of course, I've imagined it down to the smallest detail." The man's hoarse tone excited her. "I can certainly smell you... and how ready you are for me."

Liz's brow puckered, sensing the heady aroma of almonds and rum as Red's own arousal heightened and scorched the hint of cologne left on his tanned flesh.

Red's eyes darkened when Lizzy's cheeks flushed a deep pink and her lips plumped, allowing him a mere preview of the desire building within the woman.

"Visualizing you," Red's tone lowered intimately, "come apart in my arms..." the man shook his head, "and trembling as your body gives into the pleasure I will bestow..."

Leaning ever so slowly, Red cradled the woman's head in his palm, brushing his mouth slowly against her own wanting one.

"Feeling you hold me tightly for stability as you cry out my name in a sacred breath before the joy of our lovemaking robs you of coherent speech altogether..." he painted the vivid picture, "and you whimper your contentment in my ear... I need to join so fucking badly in that release, to surrender to your will."

Liz felt a warmth spread through her core, just as if Red had shared his essence with her, right where they sat.

"Trust me, Elizabeth," the man pleaded his case, "I need you so much right now, my body aches so badly... I can't fucking breathe."

Closing her eyes to the visuals presented, Liz felt her own breathing shudder into uneven, raspy gasps.

"Tonight," Red rasped, "we'll come together and find release with one another," he whispered, his lips brushing hers. "... I promise."

Lost to the man's seduction, Liz startled as a rush of voices and a loud clatter inundated her senses.

"Shit..." Emma tsked, hastily grabbing for the sunblock bottle she dropped. "I-I'm sorry." She grimaced for the interruption.

Smiling slowly, Red placed a lingering kiss full of promises to Lizzy's mouth... until both were ready to rejoin the real world.

"It's all right." Liz assured, her breathing shaky and aroused. Grasping the bottle, she handed it to her redheaded friend. "Something wrong?" She cleared her throat.

Emma sighed wistfully, rubbed the lotion along her arms.

"I'm surprised I'm not as red as a strawberry." Emma wrinkled her nose, darting her eyes towards Liz. "I'm not, am I?" She hastily lifted her arms for inspection.

"No," Liz chuckled. "You do have a healthy glow, but nothing that will wind up painful later."

Deflating back into the ground beneath her, Emma relaxed. "Good... I got big plans tonight," she grinned, "and they don't include slathering on cooling gel."

"What about massage oil?" Daniel sauntered up, holding out a big glass of sweet tea.

Sitting upright, Emma took the enormous glass, greedily sipping the cool beverage. "Is there alcohol in this?" She lifted a scolding smirk.

"Just a smidgen tad... just like grandma used to make." Danny confirmed. "Honey, I am your protector... just enjoy the day."

Snorting quietly, Emma sipped the sweet treat, running her fingers along the condensation covering the thick glass.

Mindlessly playing with a blade of grass, Liz halted her movements, staring at the two quizzically. They really were the cutest couple.

"My grandmother made the best Hot Toddy's ever." Red added his two cents suddenly. "Cleared a head cold in record time."

Handing Lizzy her newest slushie drink, Red sat back against a thick tree trunk, waving Lizzy to come to settle beside him.

Sliding between Red's open legs, Liz rested back against the man's chest, eagerly sucking the sweet bitterness of the refreshing drink through her straw.

"How do you think he got hair on that manly chest?" Daniel laughed at his own wit.

Red held his smile when Lizzy happily searched out the area in question. The tuft peeking out through the open gap of his shirt seemed to please the woman immensely.

"Grandma Ruth never did anything halfway." Red shrugged, then canted his head, a thought occurring. "Which probably explains why there are gaps of time missing from my childhood."

"My kind of grandma." Daniel offered the woman a toast.

"Your grandma got you drunk?" Liz gasped her pique.

"Only to draw out the fever," Red cut Daniel a wry glance. "Right?"

"Or shut us the hell up for a while." Daniel muttered knowingly, for his Nana Bea wasn't shy about why she gave her grandson the elixir.

"Either way," Red took a mouthful of his own drink, "it worked. I don't remember suffering one little bit throughout my youth."

"Yeah," Liz scoffed, "until the next morning, when the hangover hit you."

"It wasn't until my college days, I actually understood the term, Hair of the Dog," Red imparted another gem from his youth, "but very vaguely remembered grandma mentioning it... once or twice." he chuckled.

"My god," Liz's eyes widened, "she plied you with more alcohol! Keep you blitzed until the sickness passed?"

"They just wanted to ease our suffering, Liz." Daniel assured.

"Or theirs.." Liz grumbled.

"Some people show their love in different ways, baby." Red patted Lizzy's hip consolingly. "Grandma was a doer, not a talker."

Liz held her amusement. The surrounding men chortled at the wry remark.

Silas had been moseying in their direction for some time now, but well, there were a lot of ladies between the bar and grassy fields.

He finally plopped down, joining the conversation. "I had Hot Toddy's for a cold, whiskey on the gums, scotch as an appetizer...I turned out just fine."

"Oh, that's a ringing endorsement." Liz scoffed her disgust. "You are not the poster child for... well... anything." She suddenly realized just how morally corrupt her guard was and would always be.

"All I'm saying, don't knock it til you try it." Silas swigged his beer. "Those are words to live by, whatever the circumstances."

"Unless it's a hanging." Francis sat, patiently weaving a necklace from the clover flowers about him, his long legs folded beneath him. "Especially if you're the guest of honor."

"There are, of course," Silas shifted the boy a pained look, "exceptions to every rule."

"Well, I'm bored." Daniel pulled Emma between his legs, taking the discussion elsewhere. "What's this about slathering oil all over your scrumptious body, my little Texas tornado? Let's get back to that."

"You mean," Emma feigned naïveté, twirling the ends of her long hair, "like... for oil wrestling?"

Red stifled a bubbling laugh welling in his throat when Daniel blinked dumbfounded, gradually comprehending the unexpected repartee thrown his way.

"...Yeah," Daniel slowly drawled, "I... I guess we could wrestle a bit, if that's what does it for you."

"Don't knock it til you try it?" Emma reminded with a flirtatious wink Silas' way.

Emma's eyes twinkled with both amusement and mischievousness, for Daniel's expression was no longer a happy one.

Suckling on her straw, Lizzy shifted a quizzical glance Red's way, allowing his quiet chortle its freedom.

"Silas, behave!" Liz chided curtly. "Don't go causing trouble!"

"Me?!" Silas spread his hands out, scowling at Emma, who giggled infectiously.

"All right people, are we doing this or not?" Mark held his ever ready clipboard to the fore. "I don't have enough for the opposing team, which would be... you slackers."

Glancing over the great expanse of field, Francis draped the long clover necklace over Missy's neck. "There are a lot of my enemies over there." He had taken notice.

Missy held up the 'necklace', grimacing. "A girl likes diamonds, you know."

Silas rubbed his eyes, popping a cheese puff in his mouth. "A guy likes a girl to put out for diamonds."

"Silas!" Liz hastily shut down the conversation.

"Logic dictates, Francis," Red came to the rescue, "if all those people aim to maim and kill you, for whatever agenda, perhaps you should sit this one out."

"Well, see... that would make him a pussy." Ben pointed out the obvious.

"Hey, I ain't no pussy." Francis proclaimed loudly and proudly. "Sign me up!" He tapped Mark's clipboard.

Mark kicked the guy's leg. "Come on, Gollum, show us what you got!" He gave the guy a thumbs up.

Francis was up and shaking his body vigorously. "I'm a little tight."

Ben massaged the guy's shoulders roughly, pounding the muscles overly hard... just because he could. "It's just touch football."

"I thought it was flag football?" Liz was confused.

"What's the difference?" Missy was bored this time, clearly.

"There's a lot of difference if someone breaks your legs while he's trying to 'grab the flag'." Silas pointed out the subtleties of play. "Or someone shanks your ass while he's gently touching you 'out'."

"This sounds bad." Liz decided.

Red smiled, showing his pride for Lizzy's deductive reasoning. Though the woman was completely unaware a man had broken his leg during this very game last year, she had grown accustomed to his associates and the incidents that occasionally befell them.

"Francis," Melissa stood, her expression a concerned one, "do you really think you should play?"

"Oh, yeah," Francis waved off any concern, "...sure." He reassured his date and himself. "I've broken a leg and been stabbed a couple times before and look," he spread his arms wide, completely missing the stunned horror on Melissa's face, "I'm perfectly fine. It's all cool. What's to worry about, right?"

"He's just running the ball." Ben placated Melissa, shoving his friend towards the field. "He'll be fine. He's a great little runner."

"Comes from his all-star days with the track team." Mark lied easily to cover Francis' youthful illegal transgressions well enough.

"I wasn't on the track team." Francis was confused again. "Was I?"

"More like, all those years outrunning the cops," Ben chuckled, "in his misspent youth."

"You were right there alongside me." Francis recalled. "You should know, bitch."

Liz giggled quietly when Red's head fell back, releasing an exasperated sigh.

"Whatever the reasons, he has enough practice running away," Daniel lifted to his feet, catching the shirt Mark tossed his way, "the little rat. Why do we get yellow! We ain't no cowards!" he shook the jersey in his fist.

Liz looked at Red. Red looked at Liz. "You guys rock the yellow." She smiled brightly. "Francis, isn't yellow your color though, really!" She second guessed herself a breath later, glancing at the opposing team, all of which were eyeing her friends with malicious intent. "I mean, if you think you should play..."

"Lizzy," Red gave the woman a scolding glance, "Francis is a big boy. He can take care of himself."

"You got money on the game, don't you?" Liz whispered the rebuke, her eyes narrowing knowingly.

"Yes," Red didn't lie, "but that doesn't negate the fact Francis can be as stealthy as a gazelle being chased by a vicious, unrelenting predator."

"Which is exactly what those men over there appear to be." Liz knew better than to think Red would say something so... dumb. "And don't think I don't know you're quoting that idiot." She dared him to refute her.

Red's jaw worked restlessly, silently confirming her hypothesis with a half shrug.

"The kid heals fast." he reminded the woman of the numerous flesh wounds Francis suffered to date.

"You better be concerned for your own sweet ass." Silas picked up his blanket. "We're a little too close to the playing field, if you want my expert opinion... and who doesn't?"

All the women instantly followed suit, moving blankets, purses and drinks to the designated safe spot.

"Well, everyone apparently." Liz sneered disdainfully at her guard's sudden popularity, watching the migration.

"What about me?!" She practically stamped her foot. "You're supposed to be watching out for my beautiful backside and you're just leaving me?!"

"If you see my ass headed in any given direction at any moment during the game," Silas called back over his shoulder, "... try to keep up."

"You're supposed to protect and serve!" Liz stomped off, following close behind her guard's retreating ass.

"I... am... on... vacation." Silas reiterated for the thousandth time.

Liz turned on Red, waving an imperious hand at her guard. "This... this is who you chose to protect me?"

"I'm here, baby." Red playfully placated the woman. "I'll protect you."

"I think you're missing the point." Liz's voice lifted the further she went along. "What if, for some unforeseen reason... his check doesn't clear the bank one day? Do I suddenly become persona non grata with the bastard?"

"Would you give a hundred percent at a job," Silas provoked the woman, "... if you weren't getting paid?"

"First, my checks always, always clear the bank... any bank." Red assured, withholding the urge to smile. "We have also discussed this in minute detail. If he allows you to die due to negligence or derelict of duty... he doesn't get his year-end bonus." He included. "I was very firm on that issue."

Liz's mouth fell open, her expression one of horrified outrage.

"It's a damn good bonus," Silas said, laying his head on the crook of his arm, "enough to offer some due diligence, or at least, it has been... in the past."

Scratching his jaw line, Red smothered his smile when Lizzy scowled hard at her guard.

"Negotiation time is just around the corner, isn't it?" Silas kinked his back meaningfully. "Got to think about my retirement years."

"I'm gonna watch my own ass from now on." She muttered through her sullen pout.

"Now, baby," Red soothed ruffled feathers, "you know I watch your ass... continuously."

"You shouldn't coddle him like you do!" Liz retained her pout.

"He's old, honey. Consider the source." Red kissed her cheek, cuddling the woman close. He smiled when Lizzy relaxed fully against him, snuggling in, apparently pacified for the moment.

"Anyone taking bets who's gonna walk away with the most serious injury?" Silas wanted to know, perking up a little. "I've got my money on Francis."

Red dropped his head when Lizzy tensed against him, watching as the players took to the field.

"He'll be fine," Red murmured.

"He won't be dead, at the very least." Silas corrected,

"Thankfully," Red moved things along, "Dembe and Danny are on the same side." he made mention. "They'll be right there by Francis' side."

Liz craned her neck, looking for the man. "Unless they placed bets on the other team."

"There's that." Red related. "I'm warning you now though, Dembe can be quite aggressive, and I happen to know, or at least I'm almost positive... he bet on our team."

Silas cast the man a, what a bunch of shit, look. He knew Dembe would play the best odds, and so did Red.

Liz narrowed suspicious eyes when both teams finally took to the field, forming offensive and defensive lines.

"I don't remember that move in touch football." Liz drawled warily.

"Well, it's because they're playing flag football, baby." Red checked with Silas, who shrugged.

Liz was confused, for she was almost positive they said touch football earlier. "Or did I say that?" she muttered to herself.

"If he gets seriously hurt," she turned pissed eyes on Red and Silas, "you two will answer to me."

"Well, I'm shaking in my boots." Silas had managed enough interest in the ensuing game to lean against a sturdy tree, arms folded, a rather cynical look on that handsome face.

"Lizzy, you just don't understand these men... the purpose of the game." Red explained.

"The purpose is to kill my friend." Liz understood enough. "I don't see Thor here among the elite out there."

"Nor will you," Silas smirked, "I no longer have anything to prove to myself," he thumbed his chest, "nor anyone else."

"You saying Dembe has?" Liz put her hands on shapely hips.

"He's out there." Silas chuckled for the fact.

Liz rolled her eyes, then gasped. She hurried over, hastily grabbing something off the ground.

Red had missed the by-play, for his back was turned.

Liz held up the object, her expression a shocked one. "Francis made this for you! Why did you throw it away?"

"Are you serious?" Missy stared at the necklace of slowly wilting clover disdainfully. "Why would I want that thing?"

Liz's expression hardened. "Are you serious?!"

Emma and Amanda stifled a giggle.

Missy gasped. "Don't be mean to me."

"Don't be mean or thoughtless to Francis." Liz snapped. "I've about had it up to here with people taking advantage of," she frowned hard at those surrounding her, "... my friend!"

Liz went back but chose to stay close by Emma instead of seeking out Red.

The man sighed heavily. "Well, we've put our foot in it this time."

"You mean, you have." Silas wasn't particularly worried about anything except the action on the field. "You see that little bastard steal our ball? Maybe we should think about hiring him."

Red's interest had waned somewhat. "Whatever you think. Feel him out after the game."

Red caught Lizzy's eye, but the woman refused to hold his quiet stare for long.

"I have some feeling out to do as well, it appears."

"You're pussy whipped." Silas decided.

"As you are any and all times Samar decides to turn those brown eyes your way." Red arched a knowing brow.

Silas' expression remained unchanged, but Red knew he had scored a point.

Red made his way to where Lizzy stood.

"We can try this one next, Liz." Emma directed her newly formed cheerleading squad, an animated excitement on the pretty flushed face. "Go Eagles go, get that post, ram it up their asses, where it'll hurt most!" The woman coached the ladies.

Red's brow lifted, and he grinned at the rather enthusiastic display of support offered.

The other women giggled their approval, ready to practice if guided by the little firecracker inspiring such loyalty.

"What?" Emma noted Red's interest. "We take our football seriously down here, you know."

"Oh, I wholeheartedly approve." Red held up a peaceful hand. "This crowd needs to liven up a bit. I'm sure you all will inspire a more festive atmosphere."

Liz turned her head slightly towards the man's presence, a pleasured flush on her cheeks for his praise. Subdued somewhat from their earlier discussion, she was open to resolving issues between them... now.

"I only hope we are the Eagles." Red ventured.

"We are." Emma beamed. "I can't believe Mark, who normally thinks of everything, didn't think to name the teams!" She exasperated.

"Then the other team is..." Red admitted his curiosity.

"The Bulldogs." Emma wrinkled her nose distastefully.

Clearly, the consensus of the other team was an unfavorable one, as each lady gave a look of discord when their name was mentioned.

The unwavering loyalty shown to their players was rather endearing, Red thought.

"If I may steal this cheerleader for just a few moments?" Red didn't wait for confirmation, gently guiding Lizzy to a more private venue. "Only be a minute, there's a flag on the play, anyway."

Having sensed Liz was at odds with her man, Emma sent her friend a supportive look and gentle smile that said, I'm here for you.

"Let me get straight to the point, baby." Red smiled down at the sullen little face.

He formulated his words carefully, glancing at the men gathered around Mark, awaiting a decision of some sort.

"This thing with Francis," he scowled down at the lovely blue orbs, "you really don't believe I would put a fucking wager above his welfare, do you?"

Liz remained silent, her brow furrowed.

"Elizabeth!" Red's scowl deepened. "My god, really!"

"...No," Liz knew well enough, "no, I know you wouldn't." She admitted. "It's just, he shouldn't be out there. I had a bad feeling, Red." She blurted.

Red took a moment to think her words through. "It's a football game, Lizzy. I'm not quite sure which kind..."

"I know that." Liz did. "But you as much said, the games are used to settle scores."

"They can be, yes." Red nodded absently, following along so far.

"Most backyard football games end at first blood." Liz gestured to the carnage taking place. "This one, on the other hand, has become more... intense." She waved a hand at the bloodied players. "I feel like I'm watching a bunch of Gladiators out there."

Red knew she referred to a free-for-all fisticuff melee that had proceeded the time-out Mark called earlier.

He didn't exactly have a defense as yet, for all she said was true, but he had an explanation for what she was witnessing.

"You have to understand," Red drew in a breath, "these men are a special breed. The victory of a take down, the challenge of besting your opponent..." how did one go about making sense of the male species, "in earlier times, they would have been the gladiators of their day, the knights, the champions of lost causes, Lizzy."

The woman's brow furrowed.

"There isn't much they fear, their aversion to pain is the stuff of legends." Red told the truth, for even his pain tolerance was high. "Francis is one of those people." he shrugged. "If there's a chance to go to the extreme; to feel the rush... he's a junkie."

"Okay, I can understand that." Liz conceded for she knew some people had the fortitude for intense situation. "But you also intimated these guys... they operate by a different set of rules."

"They do." Red acknowledged their past conversations about such issues.

"The other team," she side-glanced the opponents warily, "their primary target is Francis."

"In a business aspect, yes, I'm sure he is." Red admitted. "Here, on the field... it's different."

"Francis doesn't really want to be out there... does he?" Liz frowned her concern.

"Yeah, he does." Silas had sauntered up, his hand empty of beer. He opened the ice chest, rectifying the problem. "It's exactly where he wants to be."

Liz begged to differ. "If you guys hadn't goaded him–"

"He would have found another excuse." Silas disdained. "It's what we do... it's in our nature, woman. It's what and who we are."

Liz blinked. Could that be true?

"Wait..." Silas gestured to the next play.

"Really watch them, Lizzy." Red turned the woman about.

She sought Francis out on the field. The guy seemed on a natural high. He was animated, talking a mile a minute, eagerly taking his place in the huddle.

All watched Ben snap the ball to Mark, who caught it with nimble fingers. Glancing down the length of the field, the man hurled the pigskin before rolling left, just barely missing a tackle by the opposing team.

Tracking the ball's trajectory, Red grinned as Francis caught the ball and bolted across the open expanse. Running just ahead, Dembe and Daniel did their best to run interference, all dodging players as they went.

Watching Francis nimbly hop over the obstacles thrown in his path, Liz cringed as the man took a glancing blow at the ten-yard line... pushing him the last few feet into the end zone.

Applauding their team, Liz relaxed some, especially watching everyone surround and congratulate Francis' achievement.

"Not everyone has the ability or desire to be a doctor, lawyer..." Silas put it on the line. "We aren't wired for a mundane, idle existence. Something inside snaps and says, go for it."

Understanding dawned. "You mean like military types, cops? Why some men join Special Forces?"

"We can't do the politics of the military," Silas waved a dismissive hand, "so we find another niche... one that fits us."

"Politicians send soldiers out to die while they sit safely behind lines." Red knew exactly what Silas meant. "While the Powers-that-Be negotiate and compromise, we are sent into impossible situations to stall for time. It's about money and power. It always has been."

"If governments would keep their noses out of a soldiers' business," Silas gave Red over a beer, "wars wouldn't last half as long."

"Do you know how many good men I've lost trying to follow fucking orders from a desk jockey?" Red fumed. "Those days are past. Now..." he waved his beer, "my kind settle disputes in our own way."

"You were both soldiers a long time, though." Liz cringed hearing a pile of bodies crash behind her.

"Chicks dig the uniform." Silas lightened the moment. "And things I can do with my mouth if I really put my mind to it..."

Liz's head dropped. "Oh, please!" she muttered her disgust. "The minute you open your mouth, the illusion vanishes!"

"The adrenaline," Red had pondered her question, ignoring Silas, for he knew the man was helping as only Silas could, "the rush... not only out in the field, but the business we've chosen?" He debated his own reasons. "It takes a certain confidence, ambition... competitive nature."

Liz understood these facts were something she had to figure out. And did she want to continue in a world populated by such people?

Red said these people approached situations no-holds-barred. They had their own rules, laws and penalties... judgements.

But then, she recalled these same people after the storm that had hit Mark's hotel and how they all came together as a team to make things right again.

While no one seemed to suffer fools gladly among Red's associates, nor did they appreciate any show of incompetence... the loyalty shown, the willingness to pull together, accomplish goals...

It was a tangled muddle at this point in her mind.

Liz nodded thoughtfully, thinking back over their time here at the hotel.

The guests played the games and laughed and ribbed one another, but there was an underlying seriousness during competition... as if each player had something to prove.

Whether it was to their peers, or themselves... Liz couldn't say, but it was always there hovering in the background.

Liz had to admit, watching people here had been enlightening. After the storm, the desire to do what was right, the offer of loyalty shown to Mark was not only admirable, it fascinated.

These men were a tight knit group, covering one another's back to some extent. They had found a way to mix business and pleasure.

Liz imagined traitors were a rare occurrence among Red's crowd. If someone were to turn traitor... she bet they didn't last very long on either side. If you could be bought by the highest bidder, you were of no use to anyone... you were expendable.

Not to mention, new blood was being thrown into the mix every day. Men wishing to make a name for themselves... get a quick payday at someone else's misfortune.

Considering the substantial bounty on Red's head, it was a wonder someone hadn't attempted to collect on it yet. Most, she assumed, knew not to tangle with Red, for he had sources and associates everywhere.

But to know the threat was out there, it had to keep the man on his toes. It had to be a lonely existence, never truly trusting anyone.

"Do you ever get tired of it?" She murmured softly. "Having to constantly watch over your shoulder."

"No," Red winced painfully when Dembe took a particularly nasty hit. "The boredom would set in quickly were there no challenges in life."

Red relaxed as Dembe stood, shaking off the hit he'd received.

"I'm enjoying the rush while it lasts." Red quirked his mouth. "I will have to retire at some point, of course."

"Will you?" Liz wondered.

"Only when I've reached my goals." Red confessed, "..or I'm given no choice."

Silas' arm swung out as he caught a flying projectile headed directly for the back of Liz's head.

Red had seen the blur, instinctively tugging the woman into the sphere of his body as he covered her smaller frame with his own.

Both he and Lizzy straightened, sensing the danger passed.

"You want this football shoved up your ass sideways!" Silas asked, none too pleasantly as the perpetrator approached. "Watch what the fuck you're doing!"

The cheerleading squad choked on their laughter, encouraging such un-gentleman like behavior.

"Fuck you, Silas!" the man spat belligerently. "Just give me the ball!"

Tsking for the man's folly, Red jerked back out of the direct line of fire when Silas' arm shot out without warning, grasping the offense man's blue jersey tight in his beefy grasp.

"Uh oh!" Liz grimaced, squeezing her eyes tight, hunkering into Red's protection.

"You prick son of a bitch!" Silas growled, hitting his opponent squarely on the nose, sending blood spraying all over the bastard's clothes.

The man reeled back, taken by surprise.

"I'll give you something more substantial than a fucking ball!" Silas bellowed, dragging the half-staggering nuisance off the field. "What the hell's wrong with you, boy! When I say jump... you better damn well say, how high!"

All watched the guard drop the half-lucid man beside the med-tent doctor before swaggering back.

The referee and Mark approached, hand out for the ball.

"Blow that damned whistle at me," Silas warned the ref, "and I'll stick it up your ass!"

"How do you know," Mark took the ball, "he's not into shit like that?"

Silas pulled a skewed face, then shrugged, going for another beer.

"He drinks a lot of beer." Emma had noticed, having come to check on Lizzy. "I like that in a man. Bet my Danny could drink Silas under the table." She proudly preened.

"Don't take that bet, or they'll do it." Red suggested.

Recalling the last time those two jackasses took to the challenge, Red very vividly remembered, after the two imbeciles passed out, he had to pay out a couple grand to cover the costs of all their shenanigans.

It was remarkable just how much a couple dozen escorts prices had raised in the last ten years.

Shaking off the memory, Red refocused his attention. "You ladies have done a remarkable job supporting our team."

In all his years, he'd never seen the crowd so invigorated. In the past, everyone had been rather staid, serious. Now, all were actively rallying for their chosen teams and genuinely having a good time.

"They say they'll stitch my cheers on a pillow." Emma shared her excitement and pride. "Have you heard the lame-ass comebacks from the squad over there? Bunch of amateurs." She pulled an adorable face. "Half-time is coming up." She brightened instantly.

"I'm there!" Liz promised. "I'll yell the loudest."

"Yeah, that's shocking." Silas muttered.

"Shut up!" Liz... yelled.

Turning their attention back to the field, all watched the guys take formation. Focusing on Dembe, Red grinned when the man snapped the ball... or so everyone thought.

Danny plowed into one man after another, running interference for Dembe.

Dembe sprinted after Daniel, with Ben and Francis in fast pursuit.

"Go, Dembe!" Lizzy yelled her encouragement.

Red chuckled as the woman ran a short distance to watch the action unfold. Holding his breath, he stepped about Lizzy's position as Matthew nipped at Dembe's heel, making a grab for the man.

"Run, you little bastard!" Silas offered over his own sort of encouragement. "Move your ass, dammit!"

The mood too high, too energizing, Red tapped his leg restlessly. "Come, Dembe!" he muttered tightly, urging his friend on.

Securing a fistful of Dembe's jersey, Matthew leaned into his heels, desperately trying to reel Dembe in.

Taking one for the team, Francis dove for Matthew's feet, upsetting the man's balance. Red grimaced, the move sending both men into an uncontrolled tumble along the unforgiving ground, kicking up dirt and clumps of grass in their wake.

Hurrying to the end-zone, everyone cheered their man all the way to... victory!

"Yes!" Silas slapped his hand together, upsetting his beer.

"Oh, my god!" Liz rushed for Red, throwing herself into his arms. "Did you see that!"

Red's eyes twinkled as he caught sight of Lizzy's eyes welling with happy tears.

Red watched the Eagles trudge off the field. Tired, dirty, grinning all. Only Francis seemed to have the energy to remain upright.

"Hey, what's this?" He fingered the clover necklace about Lizzy's neckline.

"Oh! Missy was cheering you on. It kept slipping over her head." Liz lied fluently. "I'm keeping it safe for her."

Francis spared the woman a look. "Yeah, right." He grinned, a sadness in his eyes. "It's okay, Lizzy, it's just a stupid–"

"No!" Liz balked, her hand going to the necklace. "It's pretty and smells so good!"

"Put it in a plastic bag in the cooler. It'll keep in there." Emma smiled happily. "It's really nice, Francis. Very intricate work."

"You worry about me, little filly." Danny accepted the Gatorade the tiny woman handed over. "Not our star running back."

"I thought I was the tight end?" Francis shared his confusion.

"You," Red halted all remarks before the men could utter a word, "are the MVP of the team, Francis." He fed the young man's ego.

Mark glanced at Daniel, sniggering their amusement for the overblown accolades of Francis' prowess, but otherwise remained silent.

"The Eagles would not have advanced to this stage without your spectacular show of athleticism." Red concluded, his tone a droll one.

"I am good." Francis concurred.

"The Eagles?" Mark questioned curiously.

"We're calling our team the Eagles," Emma piped up, "and the loser team the Bulldogs," she explained the newly formed rules of the game, "because they shit on everything they touch."

"Ah," Mark nodded thoughtfully, "I see."

Liz smiled her agreement as Red nodded sagely.

Danny, enjoying the wit and forthrightness displayed, chortled under his breath, kissing the woman's temple.

"The sight of my big, brawny man out there on that battlefield just makes my nether regions warm up." The little Texan almost teared up for such sentiment displayed.

"Baby," Danny lowered his body slowly, forcing Emma's smaller form back into the surface of the blanket, "you're making my nether regions all hard and achy."

"That's my job, cowboy." Emma's arms encircled the man's neck as she welcomed his kiss and embrace.

"He's getting you all sweaty." Missy cringed visibly.

"Not quite yet," Emma whispered seductively for Danny alone, "but hopefully... tonight?"

Francis shook his head minutely, taking the beer Silas handed him. "You did good kid on that run, after Mark threw the ball."

"Superbly thrown the ball." Mark corrected diligently, laying back, the man basked in the cool breeze and shade.

"Hey, I ran interference." Ben lifted a weary head, falling back into Amy's lap. "That touchdown was mine!"

"Francis made it." Liz pointed out, grinning over at her friend. "You do run fast." She had noted the fact.

"Emma, that one cheer?" Danny opened his eyes, for he had been taking in the woman's scent. "About their tired, sagging balls dragging the ground, holding them back and all?"

Emma feigned modesty. "It just came to me."

"That really bolstered my morale." Danny sighed into the woman's neckline.

"And really pissed off the opposing team." Mark reminded all his weary warriors.

"They can't take a joke," Francis grimaced for such poor sportsmanship, "or a little criticism."

"Did you hear me applauding?" Liz asked plaintively. "After your touchdown?"

"He had a little help!" Danny's face was comical. "Did you applaud after mine?"

"We all applauded." Red patted his friend's shoulder in open camaraderie. "That one won me some big bucks."

"Which you will gratefully offer to share." Daniel scowled a warning.

"Win the game and we'll talk." Red countered.

"When that big guy hit you at the ten-yard line," Ben arose, pointing to Francis, "I thought for sure you were gonna collapse like a deck of cards, man."

"Nah, my sense of direction is acute." Francis dismissed the naysayer. "I collapsed the right way."

"Well, that touch down just fired me right up, I can tell you now." Emma slowly slid her hands down Danny's side.

"Compared to previous games," Red noted Lizzy noting the young couple's mischievousness, "this year's spectators have been exceedingly supportive, thanks in part to a wonderful effort by our lovely cheerleading ensemble." He shared the ladies' efforts with their significant others.

Emma bowed her head graciously. "Those girls put their heart and soul into every little insult we could muster."

The announcement was met with wholehearted approval from the 'squad'.

The men raucously applauded their women's actions.

"Can you sense the electricity in the air?" Emma wanted to know.

"That's the blood-loss oozing from the Bulldogs." Mark sneered, stretching his aching body experimentally.

"Or the constant shuffle of money changing hands." Red added. "Dembe, you and Danny have made for a formidable defense out there." He held a hand aloft. "Not to lessen any other members' accomplishments or attempts."

"I was breathless when you got that second touchdown, Mr. Zuma." Missy finally found the courage to approach the large man.

Dembe seemed ill-at-ease as the woman had said nothing about Francis' efforts.

"You should have seen Lizzy's face," Red covered the awkward moment. "She was running right alongside you there, Dembe! Barefooted, no less." He finished up.

Liz wiggled her toes into the cool grass. "It just feels good."

"You cleared that damned lineman completely, old son." Silas recalled the play as well.

"Now that was a team effort." Mark pointed a finger toward the sky. "What with Danny running block, Francis and Ben faking the hand-off... and, of course, my own modest but totally effective efforts."

"That play made me spill my beer." Silas hit Dembe on the back. "Even I was impressed with such devious, underhanded tactics."

Dembe modestly begged off.

"That damned Matthew guy almost spoiled the whole thing." Francis recounted. "I say we take him out this next play and I don't mean for an ice cream soda. Are you with me?"

All the players offered a good-natured thumbs-up.

"You think they will offer me a spot on a major team?" Francis' face was the epitome of optimism.

Danny stopped nibbling on Emma's ear, seeking the guy out. "They?"

"You know," Francis didn't think it needed a great deal of explanation, "they... they have cameras everywhere... drones. They're watching, rest assured."

Liz exchanged perplexed looks with Red. "But... who's watching? Are you talking about scouts or something, Francis?"

"Word will filter back to the little people eventually sure, but no," he stepped closer, lowering his voice, "don't be naïve, Lizzy. Get with the times. They already encoded DNA. We're all just test subjects in a larger, more diabolical future they have mapped out."

"Some should qualify for that test subject thing more than others." Silas made mention.

"Francis knows of what he speaks." Ben subscribed to the same conspiracy theories. "Just all you skeptics wait and see."

Danny planted his arms beside Emma's shoulders, stretched his body over hers. He performed several push-ups, grinning down at the redhead below him.

"Limbering up for the next round of play, baby?" Emma batted coquettish eyes.

"I figure if Francis can show off for them... so can I." the muscled young man teased in his own fashion. "I'm pro material too."

"You sure are, honeybuns." Emma latched onto the man's strength, her feet hooked about Danny's waist, her arms lovingly embracing his massive shoulders.

Liz chuckled for the antics. "That's so cute..."

Silas cocked a brow. "And kinda hot to watch."

"Silas!" Liz instantly scolded.

"Lay off woman!" the man snapped. "I'm on vacation here!"

Liz tightened her mouth, seeking Red's input.

"It is kind of hot, baby." Red's eyes twinkled. "Don't you see it?"

Exasperated, the woman automatically checked out his meaning. "You always take his side!"

Silas opened a bag of chips. "That's because I'm prettier than you."

Liz was speechless, incensed for such an inaccurate announcement.

Emma gasped into a fit of giggles, falling from her perch as her grip gave way.

"Thanks for spoiling my fun," Daniel sent Silas a perturbed look, but settled over the woman, cradling Emma protectively until the moment passed. "You got the best laugh, spitfire."

He was content again.

"When we get back out there," Mark lifted to his elbow, laying on his side, "the shit-kickers will have the ball." He had been strategizing in his mind.

"The Bulldogs," Emma's muffled laughter came from beneath Danny's bulk, "will have the ball."

Liz hit Silas' arm... hard. "You are not!"

All eyes turned her way.

"I m-mean.." she stammered, flushing prettily.

"You're each pretty in your own way." Francis settled the issue at hand.

"When the man is right..." Ben nodded sagely.

"As I was saying!" Mark bitched. "The other team is down one. How do you ball sacks think they will come at us?"

"It's gonna be brutal, man." Ben sighed heavily. "They will come at us with everything they got. I wouldn't want to be out on that field..." he sing-songed his head, "except I got a death wish... and everyone knows danger is my middle name."

"So... you'll be there." Mark assumed correctly. "So, what's our plan?"

Red smiled gently at Elizabeth, watching Emma and Danny at 'play'. "Silas isn't the only voyeur in the family, I see." He whispered aside.

His tone allowed total approval, but Liz flushed a pretty pink again. She moved into his embrace.

"Do... do we look like that?" She whispered, her imagination running rampant suddenly.

"You forget Vegas so soon?" He jogged her memory. "You tell me."

"I... I liked that." She lifted innocent eyes. "Does that make me a bad person or something?"

"I believe, curious, is the word you're looking for." Red corrected. He looked back at the couple beside them, all he could see of Emma under Danny's great bulk was tiny feet, a slender arm and lots of wavy red hair.

"That static cling is a bitch, hey, Danny." Mark could see the sensual aspect of his friends' antics.

"Someone rub 'em with Bounce sheets, stat." Ben suggested drily. "Rein it in, buckaroo. Save all that energy for the playing fields."

"Eat shit and die, Ben." Daniel suggested right back, kissing Emma lovingly.

"So much for taking constructive criticism." Ben philosophized.

"My old football coach tried that, save that energy for the field, bullshit on us." Daniel grumbled. "Got me nothing but blueballs and a pissed off girlfriend."

"How long d'you last?" Mark chuckled.

"One game." Daniel admitted. "Worst damn week of my life."

Liz touched the stubble of Red's jaw, directing his attention back to her.

"I feel like that." Liz murmured, unable to take her eyes off the couple. "Like... I'm surrounded by you, your essence when we... make love."

Red nuzzled her nose affectionately. "Do you, baby?"

"Is it wrong to want to watch when," she didn't know for certain how to phrase her desires, "... we...you know." her words trailed off wistfully.

"Did it feel wrong?" Red knew Lizzy's sheltered upbringing made certain things feel taboo, "I say, no one thinks anything if a man likes to watch an erotic coupling." They never had in his world, at least. "What's good for the goose... is good for the gander."

Liz lifted a hypnotically mesmerizing stare.

"Sounds like a fucking brilliant idea to me." He more than warmed to the notion. "Hell, were it up to me, I would line our entire bedroom, wall to ceiling, with mirrors."

Liz giggled. "Maria would disapprove but... maybe we could enlarge the one over on the bureau..." she suggested, "maybe in the master bath?"

"You obviously haven't been given the grand tour of Maria Crocetti's home in Naples." Red held his amusement. "That place has more mirrors than a fun house at Coney Island."

"Red," Liz scolded quietly, "it does not. Stop saying such crude things."

"Then tell Maria to stop buying up the Eastern Hemispheres collection of mirrors."

"Oh! Are you talking about Antonio and Maria's house in Naples?" Francis heard the last bit, eager to join the conversation.

Gasping her shock, Liz clamped her hands over her wide mouth.

"Told ya..." Red shrugged.

"We gotta get organized, people!" Mark watched a few of the opposing team drift toward the playing field. Several were donning their brilliant blue jerseys once again.

Most looked suspiciously calm and content.

"Our plan?" Francis kinked his body this way and that. "Hand off the ball to me and... step aside."

"That ego of yours if gonna get you killed one day." Silas predicted. "I only hope I get to pull the trigger."

"Silas!" Both Liz and Silas yelled the same thing in unison. "Yeah, yeah," he swiped a dismissive hand, "been there, done that!"

Liz exasperated. "It wasn't a nice thing to say."

"He couldn't do without me, Lizzy." Francis laughed such absurdity aside. "We're like this!" Two fingers were held up and tightly pressed together.

Silas held up one finger, and one finger only.

Francis laughed gaily. "You kill me, Silas."

"Been trying for years, but you're a slippery little bastard, gotta give you that." was the man's earnest reply.

"Unwind from your little succubus, Daniel." Mark motioned for the man to come along as he passed Emma's position.

"I'm coming." Danny grumbled. "Just be happy this ain't no damned polo match, is all I'm saying."

Both Liz and Emma looked to Red for explanation of the cryptic remark for the men were taking to the field for the second half of the game.

"Is that where he got that scar over his eye?" Emma didn't like to pry, and Daniel hadn't offered.

"Some guy swung his mallet, but Danny's horse was closer than anyone thought." Red didn't think he was telling tales out of school. It was no big secret.

Silas' mood improved as his memory was jogged. "Dan pulled that son-of-a-bitch off the horse, broke the mallet over the guy's back," his laughter increased as images flitted by in his brain, "and threatened to stick it up his worthy opponent's ass until he sang soprano."

"No one could calm him down that day." Red nodded thoughtfully. "He was royally pissed."

"Mark had to threaten to call off the poker game that night if all animosities weren't halted immediately." Silas' frown returned. "That got everyone's attention real fast. So now Danny has all these registered players glaring at him," he scratched his nose, "and Red standing next to him, threatening to beat him to death with the very same mallet."

Silas' good mood returned. "That was a good day."

"Yeah, sounds like fun." Liz looked at the guy as if he were insane. "What is wrong with you people?"

"Nothing a good lay won't cure." Silas sauntered over to Emma, his look a suggestive one.

"Get away from her!" Liz pointed to a neutral enough spot. "You just come stand right here!"

Silas ran his tongue against his bottom lip, his glance a lecherous one. He ignored Elizabeth completely, of course.

Red grinned when Lizzy scurried over, sitting between Emma and her guard, her scowl a determined one.

Emma laughed her delight. "You sure know how to brighten a girl's day, Silas."

"I'm even better at night." Silas suggested suggestively.

"Do not encourage him!" Liz flabbergasted. "Just behave... both of you!"

"Oh, honey," Emma smiled warmly, "... it's just a little Texas flirting. It's as natural as–"

"That red hair of yours?" Silas' eyes dropped to the woman's lap meaningfully.

Emma fingered the vivid tresses, her delight brightened.

"Duty calls, Eaglets." Red interrupted the audacious flirting. He motioned to the other women awaiting guidance and direction from Texas' head cheerleader.

Lizzy threw Silas a glare them flounced off to join the squad.

Red watched her go, sighing his melancholy.

"What the hell's wrong with you now?" Silas kicked back, watching the ladies.

"Is it wrong," Red muttered, "to wish Lizzy had the outfit"

"A man has his fantasies." Silas replied.

Red cocked his head as Lizzy bent and touched her toes, lifting the sweet ass into perfect view.

"No, really," he murmured, "the skirt would be..." he exhaled his contentment, "so much easier for her to move in."

"Yeah," Silas rolled his eyes, "I'm sure that's the reason you want to help out the team."

Blinking, Red shook his head, breaking the woman's spell... for the most part.

Red watched the offensive and defensive lines form. "Danny never did thank me for saving his ass that day."

"There's a mallet around here somewhere." Silas pretended to look. "Want I should go find it? You can finish off the ungrateful little prick. Will that make you feel a sight better?"

Red let it go.