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)

175. Live: On Air

Live: On Air

The stiff curve of Red's morning erection bobbed heavily against the sheet, waking him from a deep sleep.

Groaning softly, he lazily stroked a hand against the blankets, easing the teasing sensation.

Rubbing his eyes, he squinted against the soft slivers of morning sun peeking around the edges of blackout curtains. Laying his head back into the pillow, Red blinked away the cobwebs, sighing quietly.

Pulling his phone out from underneath his pillow, he checked the display for messages. Blinking once again, the small print came into view. Dembe's texts always held a mystical obscureness which often amused. Red was not smiling this morning, recalling the traumatic events leading up to the need for the information sent.

Red breathed a little easier. All evidence of last night's activities had been eradicated.

Elizabeth was right in that regard. He would do whatever was needed to protect her, to not implicate her in any wrongdoing.

Not that he believed Elizabeth did anything wrong. Carver was a disgusting excuse for a human being who deserved to be destroyed. Apparently, his men felt the same, for they had acted without hesitation in erasing any remnant of the maniac's existence.

Closing the phone with a gentle snap, Red glanced over at his companion, finding the woman still asleep, quiet heavily too, if her soft purr was any indication.

After waking Lizzy periodically throughout the night, he assumed she would be tired, if not exhausted. He would wager a bet, she would also sore as hell from her misadventures.

Palming the two-way radio, Red gingerly rolled from the bed so as not to wake Lizzy from her peaceful slumber.

Bypassing his robe, he headed for the bathroom, absently scratching an itch on his stomach. He yawned, coughing gently as an afterthought.

Stepping into the private toilet, he pushed the door closed behind him.

Scowling down at the unrelenting protrusion, Red carefully angled the nuisance in the needed direction.

"What's with you?" He grumbled down to his engorged cock, willing it to obey his commands.

Red sighed blissfully as his bladder began emptying itself, offering him needed relief. The man closed his eyes. Ah... the simple pleasures in life.

The unit chirped cheerfully. Red glanced to the shelf where he had placed it, lifting the black radio to his lips. "And the day goes?" He inquired as pleasantly as he was going to get at such an hour of the day.

"Better than last night." Silas responded just as pseudo cheerfully. "I think we can all agree."

Red lay his head against the cool surface of the cabinet. "Well, that covers a lot of territory, considering. Dembe, you out there?"

"Edward is enroute." Dembe replied. "He should have our flight itinerary upon arrival."

"Tell him to take his time." Red murmured, wagering a guess. "Lizzy won't be ready until at least... oh, say..." the man did some hasty calculations in his head, "about three."

Silas groused, a hint of a smile in his tone. "Must be nice to lounge in bed all the day long."

"After what she went through last night, I think it's okay to be a bit lackadaisical in rising."

"I agree, but don't let on I said it." Silas stared moodily at his device.

"Take all the time needed." Dembe interrupted the tirade before it could fully take shape. "There is much to which I must attend before flight time."

"Keep me apprised." Red muttered, lowering the radio to his side.

Flushing the toilet, Red chuckled as he lowered the lid, recalling a recent incident where Lizzy cursed a blue streak over the small but inevitable infraction.

It seemed a guard had forgotten to return the lid to its proper placement in his haste to respond to a tripped alarm, leading Lizzy to have what she described as a... 'near death experience' in the interim. She had almost fallen in to the toilet before realizing her predicament.

The woman swore, her life passed before her very eyes.

Heading for the sink, Red looked himself over with a critical eye as he lathered his toothbrush in a minty burst of refreshing paste.

All in all, he fared better than expected. Those who came in contact with Carver rarely came away with a few gashes here and there. Red counted himself fortunate indeed.

While the exchange had not been a pleasant experience by any means, he had endured worse.

Stepping to rinse his mouth, Red jerked back at the unexpected, and startling, sensation of his still hard shaft grazing the cold marble edge of the counter.

"What the hell." Red spit, glowering down at the burgeoning flesh. "Must be the meds..." he muttered.

Normally, the pain he felt would have tamed any sort of erection. In this case, Lister had pulled out all the stops last night. The byproduct being a total lack of sensation in his wounds... and an erection that, were he at home, he would hide from Keres, lest she mistake it for a scratching post.

He shuddered at the very thought.

Glancing over his shoulder, his eyes softened on Lizzy shifting on the bed. Balling the blankets in her fist, she brought them closer under her chin, exposing the bare expanse of her shoulders.

He breathed a sigh of relief to find the area clear of any bruising. The way that bastard had thrown Lizzy about, he would have assumed she would be black and blue in the light of day.

That softly tanned skin which fascinated him so, was still most inviting to look upon.

Intent on relishing the lazy morning afforded them, Red turned the radio down as he crawled back under the warm bedding.

Sighing quietly, he relaxed into the space behind Lizzy. Snuggling into the sheet, he enjoyed the woman's delicate aroma tickling his senses.

Rolling to his side, he watched Lizzy's soft breathing, relaxing into the moment.

Glancing at the clock, Red exhaled quietly. Though it was still early, he supposed he should wake her. They may not be leaving until later in the afternoon, but he knew Lizzy.

She would wish to see her friends, have breakfast, pack all she had accumulated. Time-consuming things, all.

Leaning, he placed a gentle kiss between her shoulder blades, following the fragrant scent to her nape. His mouth curved into a smile when he felt Lizzy stir.

Inching closer to her warmth, he wrapped an arm about her waist, laying a tender kiss to her bared shoulder.

Humming under her breath, Liz slowly stirred to life, waking to the slight pressure of Red nuzzling his nose into her thick hair.

"Good morning..." Red murmured softly, loathe to disturb the quiet. "You smell good..."

Placing her hand against the bed, Liz pushed against the solid surface, groaning miserably as she rolled onto her back. "So do you, Sailor." She grimaced slightly, stretching muscles and tendons she did not really want to test.

"You all right?" Red smoothed a hand along her abdomen, caressing the tender flesh.

"I feel like I just rode the Hindenburg down." Liz muttered dejectedly. She sought him out. "Sorry... that was tacky."

"No, actually... that was a pretty accurate metaphor." He scanned the sheet covered form. "Any particular area which needs attention?"

Hesitating, Liz mulled over the question for a moment. "... Pick a spot." she laughed then groaned. "Don't make me laugh." She warned hastily, quieting rapidly. "Really...don't."

Red's mouth ticked at the corner, his gaze an understanding one. "I thought you might be aching a bit."

Massaging his hand against her front for a long few moments, Red soothed the aches and pains in her torso and arms with gentle pressure until he felt the ball of tension ease and her skin erupt into gooseflesh. "I learned this technique from an old Navaho Indian Chief back in the day."

"You learned it from Dembe." She cut him a scolding stare.

"Where do you hurt most?" he whispered, smoothing a hand between her breasts.

Closing her eyes, Liz concentrated on the pains. "While I'm really liking what you're doing to my front?" She stifled a moan as she turned slightly. "Here." She showed a dark, purplish bruise just above her right hip. "It feels like that maniac hit me with a sledgehammer."

Reaching for the side table, Red dripped a few drops of oil into his palms before briskly rubbing them together to heat the fluid.

"Roll over." he instructed; his voice was tight with anger which he tried to keep in perspective. "If you hadn't ended that fucker..." he shook his head, his eyes darkening. But he let it go. Time to move on. Not let the 'fucker' win in the end because Red couldn't move past the pain inflicted. "Roll over, baby." His tone had softened.

Liz lay her head onto her crossed arms, sighing lightly. "It's over. He's out of our lives forever."

Red nodded tightly, keeping quiet. Best not to voice his thoughts at this stage. She was coping...

Lowering the sheet to the edge of her buttocks, Red fully exposed the Lizzy's back.

Straddling the woman's hips, Red smoothed the oil about the provided surface before working on troubled areas, gently kneading away the knots in Lizzy's strained muscles.

Liz moaned her relief as the callous of Red's hands span the width of her back, erasing the pain which plagued her with each brush of his strong fingers.

Only when the woman slumped into the bedding and her eyes glazed over did Red slow his hands to caress the baby soft skin.

"Better?" Red murmured, lazily circling the small of her back.

"That old Navaho Indian sure knew his stuff." Liz sighed blissfully.

"Are you drooling?" Red's mouth quirked.

"Maybe." she mumbled into the pillow. "What's it to ya?"

Chuckling, he concentrated on her shoulders. "How's your head? Any dizziness?"

"No, I'm okay." she managed around a languid yawn. "I don't think I even have a headache."

Lowering himself down beside her, Red leaned on the crook of his arm, continuing the languid motion with his free hand.

"Let me see your eyes." Red said.

Lifting the dark cerulean blue orbs, Liz looked at the man through heavy lids. "Are you going to tell my fortune or something?"

"Your pupils look okay." Red was pleased to note, he quirked a brow. "And stop being such a smart ass. No more hanging with Silas. He's a terrible influence."

"He was our saving grace last night." Liz's tone had softened as well. "And don't go telling him I say nice things about him behind his back."

"You secret is safe with me." Red leaned to caress her temple with his lips.

"Have to keep that gigantic head of his in check." Liz muttered.

Shifting comfortably, Red pulled at the sheet trapping his leg, pushing his semi-hard erection into Lizzy's hip.

Liz's brows lifted, her mouth curving into a gentle smile. "Speaking of gigantic heads."

Red sighed heavily, scowling at the object of his displeasure.

"Did we have pleasant dreams?" Liz queried. "Or is it just happy to see me?"

"It's always happy to see you." Red replied without hesitation. "In this case, I think it's just punch drunk."

"What?" Liz giggled. "Thanks a lot."

Red grinned, shaking his head.

"I can't feel my arm or leg at all." Red explained. "That, on the other hand," he waved a hand towards the object in question, "has been hypersensitive all morning."

"... Oh." Liz's smile grew, as did her interest.

"Ignore it." Red sighed with a shake of his head. "I have been." he grumbled.

Turning to her side, Liz inched closer to the man's heat, the look in her eyes a playful one.

"And if I don't want to?" She asked, running her fingers over his pectoral.

Opening himself to Lizzy's advancement, Red pressed his mouth to hers. Sighing his contentment, he flicked his tongue against the tip of her searching one in a leisurely fashion.

His breath caught in his throat when he felt slim fingers wrap around his girth, manipulating the rigid shaft with a teasing caress.

"What if I would like to... put it to good use?" Liz murmured. Readjusting her hand, she stroked the bulbous head, gingerly running her thumb along the man's slit.

"It appears," Red swallowed, "to have no objections."

Red's eyes slipped closed as the woman's hand stroked his length, encouraging it to see her side of things.

"I can't believe you would take advantage of me in such a weakened state, however." Red sighed. Pushing against the sensation, he groaned deep in his chest when he felt the fingers gap, unable to contain his width.

"That feels good..." he whispered.

Rubbing a hand along her back, he traced an invisible path down Lizzy's spine before palming a convenient hip. Curving his hand around her ass cheek, Red slid his fingers between Lizzy's thighs, brushing the small hole he coveted.

Inhaling a shaky breath, Liz arched her back, opening herself to the man's possessive touch. "How do you always know... how to touch me?"

Circling the aperture, he trailed the tips of his fingers through the creamy warmth before teasing the fine hairs covering Lizzy's vulva.

"I touch you..." he murmured seductively, "where and how... I want to touch you. Your skin is like silk. I can't help but touch it."

Easing into the humid heat, his eyes closed to the sensation of the channel conforming to his thick finger. Slowly pumping the width of his fingers inside the tight cradle, Red tested the waters, more than pleased by the results found.

"You're wet." Red rumbled his approval.

Drawing her close, the rounded curve of his crown pushed against her mound, slipping between her thighs with ease.

Liz's mouth fell agape as Red's cock head slid along her clitoris. She held her breath as she felt each individual ripple of his erection glide effortlessly against her sex.

The woman's swollen lips opened, enveloping his shaft in a warm, slick embrace.

Hooking her foot around Red's hip, Liz eagerly rubbed her clit against the hard surface, her fingers curving tight into his side for stability.

Red smiled lovingly as Lizzy's brow puckered, deeply concentrating on her body's needs.

"That's good..." he groaned, praising her body's reaction to his efforts, "get your pussy ready for me..."

Encouraging her endeavors, Red grasped the woman's ass in hand, pushing up and against the tender surface, stealing Lizzy's breath with each stroke offered.

He knew he was performing an admirable job as her whimpering moans escalated.

Capturing Lizzy's bee-stung lips, Red gently nipped the plump surface, swallowing her sharp moan of excitement.

"That's what I like to feel," he rasped his encouragement. "Slick my cock in your cream, sweetheart."

Bracing his arm on the mattress, Red leaned his chest into the plump surface of Lizzy's breasts, rolling the woman to her back.

Nudging her legs apart, Red moved into the open space, widening the gap with his muscled thighs.

Leaning, he flicked his tongue against Lizzy's nipples, drawing the pink nubs into sharp points.

"Ohh..." Liz cupped the man's head, pushing the throbbing tips into his warm mouth.

Clutching the sheets in hand, Liz gasped as her core rushed with heat. A jolting sensation tore through her abdomen, sending a wave tickling through her clitoris with each gentle tug of his mouth on her breast.

Tracing the woman's delicate curves, Red parted the trembling crease of Lizzy's pussy, dipping his thick fingers into the weeping alcove.

Tenderly brushing his fingers against Lizzy's labia, Red thoroughly wet the surface with the woman's arousal, preparing the tight hold for entrance of his girth.

"Guide me..." he said, his voice husky with lust and need.

Taking the woman's shaking hand in his own steady one, Red curved Lizzy's fingers about his cock, stroking the meaty shaft with a pronounced touch.

"Take me in..." Red whispered, nuzzling the long slope of Lizzy's neckline.

Hurriedly aligning Red's crown with her heat, Liz wrapped her legs about the man's waist. Lifting her ass off the bed, she nudged her willing body eagerly against the rounded surface.

Chuckling for the woman's enthusiasm, Red kissed her furrowed brow lovingly. "You want my cock... don't you."

Lowering his chest flush against hers, Red braced his forearms, bracketing Lizzy's body with his warmth.

"And it wants you." Red whispered roughly, pushing his hips forward. "Giving you what you want..is my greatest joy in life."

Brushing his thumb against Lizzy's temple, Red watched the woman's face as his crown breached the small gap, slowly... steadily slipping into the already quivering channel.

A haze blanketed her vision as his thick head parted her cushioned sheath, demanding it be allowed entrance. Inhaling a shaky breath, Liz stilled, gripping Red's sides as his penis sank into her heat.

The ridges of the wide shaft shoved at her core, leaving her pussy feeling full, yet the woman ached for more of the excruciating pleasure afforded her.

Mewling desperately, Lizzy opened her legs wide, rocking her bottom upward to take in all the man could offer.

"You're so thick..." she gasped, grasping tightly to his bulk, her voice a husky whisper of desire.

Kissing the woman's trembling mouth, Red ran his hand along her side, gripping her hip.

"I'm gonna make your little pussy come so hard..." Red vowed, pulling her up into his downstroke.

Liz's eyes fluttered closed as the heavy weight of Red's erection rocked back and forth, massaging her inner sanctum with deliberate and intense precision.

Never before had she felt such exquisite pressure in her vagina. It truly felt as if his cock filled her to capacity and beyond.

No one had spread her so wide or taken her so fucking deep.

The thick, textured shaft pushed at her walls, tantalizing, yet soothing, her pussy with each stroke of the engorged muscle.

When Red took her the first time, and she felt him slip deeper than anyone had ever before, she felt a moment of concern she wouldn't be able to handle him. Yet, as the swollen bulge of his crown shoved at and slid along her cervix... the acute pleasure had been so staggeringly erotic, she thought she might shatter into a million pieces upon climax.

Her surprise escalated when the man emptied his seed inside her. She'd never experienced that before; feeling her partner come. Actually feeling the warmth... the burst of heat. It had made her own climax shudder deeply in response.

She knew her other partners had found fulfilment, of course, by their reactions, but it wasn't until Red that she experienced the raw, intense power and pleasure a man's climax could evoke.

Even through the condom, she felt the hard flex and jerk of his cock as it found release, the swelling of the head that pumped his ejaculate into the slippery sheath.

With the others, she never felt a longing or excitement to share that depth of intimacy with them.

With Red, however, the passionate yearning to enjoy every facet of their lovemaking became an incessant need.

The gratification she had felt when the man naturally released his climax inside her led to the most overpowering and unexpected orgasms she ever experienced in her life.

That the sensation continued, and grew in intensity each time they made love told her, she had made the best decision in her life when she allowed him to share in that erotic, intimate moment.

"Oh..." she mewled. Clinging to the powerful frame moving above her, Liz nuzzled her nose into Red's neckline, muttering breathless pleas.

Focusing on the heavy drag of the meaty flesh, Liz could almost visualize the push and pull of her core as Red's thrusts effortlessly parted and slid between her labia.

She would give anything to see Red's thick length moving inside her body; to watch the long glide of it manipulating her slick core with each stroke...

Considering how heavenly it felt, the view must be a spectacular one as well.

Lifting upward, Red braced his arms beside the woman, watching the gentle bounce of her breasts. The full mounds swayed hypnotically in rhythm with their sensual movement.

"Touch your clit..." Red rasped huskily, his voice tight with need. Inching her hand downward, Liz inhaled a sharp breath as her palm accidentally skimmed her tender nipple while sliding between their bodies.

"That's my girl..." Red watched her fingers creep closer to their goal. "Let me watch..." he encouraged.

Combing her fingers through the damp curls covering her mons, Liz sought the peak of her sex.

Unsure she wished to come so early in the game, Liz hesitantly circled her clit, slowly applying pressure to the tender tissue. She gasped a quick breath when the length of his slick shaft brushed against her fingers before she felt the soft hairs on his pubic bone come flush against her knuckles.

Her core fluttered about in response, involuntarily tightening on the rod pleasuring her.

"Yes..." Red urged her to continue, the sensation a very stimulating one. "Make your pussy nice and tight for me."

Avidly stroking the peak of her sex, Liz wriggled closer to Red, taking the man deeper into her body. Grasping her breast, she pulled and pinched her nipple, enticing Red to take the reddened nub in his mouth.

"Look at you," the praise in Red's voice was apparent, "... getting yourself off while I fuck your little cunt."

She felt a surge of sensation shoot through her breasts down to her core, hearing the man's deepened voice express his approval of her actions.

Unlike past lovers who took her added involvement as an insult... which maybe, in their case, it was. They hadn't needed any help... well, on several occasions, they had. She could have corrected any misconceptions.

Red understood her actions were a compliment to his lovemaking. The man didn't just approve of her masturbating; he encouraged it. He was enjoying it as much as she did.

It turned him the fuck on, knowing the sensations he provided enticed her to let loose and surrender to her baser needs.

Red got off on watching her play, which in itself was an aphrodisiac. The first time she performed for him, the man sat mesmerized; he loved it so much. She could tell simply by his reaction. Red was very demonstrative in his lovemaking. Very lavish in his praise.

Drawing the width of his tongue against the distended tip, he soothed the sharp peak before once again suckling it between his lips. Flicking it hurriedly, he groaned as Lizzy trembled beneath him.

"Oh, dear god..." Red crooned, palming Lizzy's free breast in his warm hand. "I can feel your pussy quivering on my cock."

Grasping her thigh, Liz lifted her legs high into the air, assisting the man in every way she knew how.

Shifting upright, Red grasped roughly, lifting Lizzy's hips, steadily fucking the hot hollow nice and deep. He moved her slight body with each stab of his cock, mesmerized by the sweet, erratic bobbing of those amazing breasts.

Bending her knees gently, Red flattened his hands on her thighs, enraptured by the view afforded him.

He didn't think there could be anything more arousing than watching his cock disappear into the hidden depths of that greedy little cavern... but he was wrong.

Brushing his thumbs along the curls dusting Lizzy's labia, he felt the long drag of his cock as it disappeared into the warm depths.

Watching his erection plunge between her swollen lips, sliding deep inside her core, was as visually pleasing as it was physically stimulating.

Red was fortunate in his choice of lovers in the past. He knew the women were mostly of high quality and excellent stock. Mostly. He had his share of lovely women. It had never felt so... richly moving before. So... physically enchanting. There were no words which properly described what he was feeling at this exact moment.

He now felt blanketed in gratification, affection, and love.

It was unlike anything he experienced before in his life.

"Yes..." Red stroked the woman's clit with increased urgency, "baby... come on... don't make me wait another second!"

Liz gasped as the emotions descended and she gave herself over more than willingly, bending to this man's will.

Her legs shook violently as the pressure in her abdomen gave way, sending bursts of pleasure surging through her clit.

Like an explosive eruption, the unrelenting pressure broke free in a tidal wave of ecstasy.

Fighting to gather her senses, Liz gasped for air and held it expectantly, hoping to control the overpowering sensation thrumming in her clit, only to feel herself spiraling out of control as the exquisite sensations converged.

A sharp, rapturous cry of joy echoed about the room as Liz surrendered herself to the euphoric cascade of warmth pulsing relentlessly through her body.

Red's head fell back as Lizzy's core enveloped him in a tight caress, slathering him in steaming liquid silk. He closed his eyes to the wondrous onslaught, basking in its glory.

Slowing, he eased inside the tight embrace, slowly bringing Lizzy back from the precipice.

Scanning the vision before him, Red felt a wave of contentment. There was nothing else in this world he loved more than seeing Lizzy flushed and whimpering from orgasmic release.

It had been his fervent wish... his fantasy, to make Lizzy experience the emotions he knew he could produce if given the opportunity. Simply because...he cared enough to do so. To give as much as he knew he would receive.

Nothing could have prepared him for how staggering the activity would turn out to be, however.

Red had many vices, but nothing was as addictive, or as fulfilling, than sharing in Elizabeth's erotic pleasure.

The way her body submitted to his, enveloping him in a physical and mental bliss... it was unlike anything in the world.

Red grinned ferally as Lizzy groaned her disappointment as he slipped free of her hot hold.

"On your knees..." Red rasped in the woman's ear, a fevered ambition overtaking the man. "Play time is just beginning...you have my word on that."

Standing upright, Red stroked his wet cock, staring down at the woman's spread legs and soft breasts.

"Get that tight little ass in the air..." Red voiced his desire, his tone already laced with involvement and anticipation. "Let me see my territory, as it should be displayed."

Slowly pushing herself upright, Liz's attention zeroed in on Red's large hand, stroking his equally large cock.

Liquid seeped freely from the bulging crown as the straining shaft bulged and flexed between his fingers.

Hurriedly leaning forward, Liz licked the pink curve, suckling it between her pouting lips.

"Fuck..." Red breathed amorously, pushing towards the sensation. Cupping her head, he encouraged her closer, slipping deeper into the warm mouth. "Take another inch, baby."

Lowering his gaze, Red pet the dark strands as he watched Lizzy voraciously suckle and lick the distended crown.

"Can you taste yourself?" Red reminded the woman where that cock had just been.

Liz hummed, hastily flickering her tongue on the underside of wide mushroom.

"Yes..." Red grunted, "tastes good, doesn't it."

Allowing the woman to slather his shaft in her warm saliva, Red reluctantly pulled back, grasping his excited cock in hand.

"Give me your pussy..." he growled, nearing the end of his patience. "Position yourself for my pleasure..." The gravelly tone thrilled Lizzy's nerve endings.

She knew that tone... she knew that deep, sensual rasp. The game was afoot, as Dembe's favorite detective would have said...

Hurriedly turning about, Liz bent over, presenting her backside for Red pleasure... visual or otherwise.

In an attempt to soothe the intense throbbing, Red caressed the long shaft as it reacted to the sight of Lizzy's pussy glimmering with come.

All to no avail. The fucking thing had a mind of its own where Elizabeth Keen was concerned.

Sensing its mate was ready and waiting, his cock strained and jerked from his hand. A string of arousal poured from the tip, as if it wept for her... and only her.

In his haste to mount his lover and ease the torment, Red grabbed the woman's hips, roughly pushing her forward.

Gasping for the unexpected manhandling, Liz scrambled for purchase anywhere she could.

The pillows went askew, some tumbling haphazardly to the floor as she grabbed for the headboard to steady herself.

Red's phone and radio skittered across the silken like sheets, disappearing from sight with a muffled clatter.

"What did I fucking tell you." Red snarled as he climbed in behind Lizzy's bare ass.

"I was to..." she inhaled sharply as Red's thick fingers pet her crease, "position myself... for your pleasure." She breathed out silkily, her voice a mere whisper of provocative seduction.

"So... fucking do it." Red stroked both himself and the woman leisurely.

"Whatever you say," Liz responded without thought, hastily lifting her bottom upright. "...Sir."

The word washed over Red like honey on buttered bread, flowing into his psyche.

Red's balls bulged in response to the very unexpected, yet deeply erotic, reply.

Knowing what was wanted of him, and more than happy to comply... Red allowed himself to adapt and enjoy the gift presented to him.

"Show me that beautiful ass." He demanded, cuffing his hand across the rounded expanse of that curvaceous surface. "Obey me, Elizabeth!" he whispered hoarsely.

The clapping sound of flesh meeting flesh echoed about them, caused both their breaths to catch sharply in their throats.

A pleasant thrum vibrated through his body as Lizzy unconsciously waved her ass about as she moved into position.

Glancing upright, he caught sight of them in the dresser mirror, his attention caught.

Slowly leaning over the woman's smaller frame, Red grunted deep in his chest as his bulk conformed about her smaller one.

Liz sighed happily as Red's warmth engulfed her and she felt the soft pelt covering his torso and thighs tickle her sensitive flesh.

"Look at us..." Red cupped the woman's chin, directing her to the sight which enchanted him.

Liz flushed a deep red as she turned and came face-to face with a deeply erotic, salacious vision.

"No," Red growled in her ear when the woman bashfully looked away from the carnal picture.

Capturing her chin once more, he halted her action. "Look how beautiful we are together."

Red watched the woman slowly lift her gaze, a pink flush covering her cheeks. Though slightly embarrassed to view herself in such a compromising position, her eyes betrayed the salacious excitement she felt.

"That's a good girl..." Red held the woman's eyes in the mirror. "Don't look away from me."

Lifting upright, Red took his cock in hand, rubbing his head between the woman's rounded ass cheeks; the tight pucker teased his frenulum to new heights.

Moving downward, he slipped his shaft between her lips, slicking it in her arousal.

"Watch my cock take you..." he directed, watching her face intently as he inched his head into the humid opening he so craved...his passion flared unchecked.

Doing as told, Liz watched, and felt, the hard shaft part her folds before it began the long descent into her body.

Easing back, Red allowed the woman to see his cock shimmering with her cream. "Can you see how wet you're making me?"

Liz's breath caught as the man's erection came back into view once again, glinting in the hazy light. "...Y-Yes." She gulped a reply because he expected one. "...Sir." Again, the sensual caress of that entitlement sent shivers up and down his arms.

Curving his fingers about Lizzy's hips, Red gently pulled at the rounded surface. His eyes darkened as the small pucker of Lizzy's ass gaped slowly apart. Lizzy moaned softly in response, further hardening his cock.

Inching his way inside her heat, Red slowly stroked his penis back and forth, thoroughly wetting the surface to his satisfaction.

Bracing his arm on the headboard, Red tightened his hand on the woman's hip. "I'm going to return the favor and get your little cunt just as wet."

Before she could even think to reply, Red jerked against her, thrusting the heavy weight of his shaft deep in her core.

"Oh!" Liz cried out, grabbing for Red's hand on her ass. "Fuck..." she gasped, dropping her chin.

"Open your eyes, baby..." Red commanded.

Entranced by the show himself, Red watched the gentle bounce of Lizzy's breasts and ass cheeks as he thrust against her.

The seductive sway of the large globes moving freely with his deepened thrusts stirred his imaginings to new heights. Her long hair swished back and forth like a rippling wave.

Shifting her attention to Red's face, Liz felt her arousal soar when she caught sight of Red's rapture. The man eagerly divided his attention from their mirror image... and the action right before his very eyes.

She longed to see the view in the mirror closer, but to see it from Red's point of view? She had never been so envious of anyone before in her entire life!

Gripping the woman in his hold, Red snarled under his breath as his hands dwarfed her slim waist, causing his already swollen balls to brush tantalizingly against his thick thighs.

Enthralled by the sight of Red's cock disappearing into her body, Liz felt her skin burst into gooseflesh as she felt the heavy width push through her slick cushion and impact against her cervix. The thick head pushed incessantly against the rounded tissue, increasing the intense pressure in her pelvis.

Noticing the woman's rapt attention, Red grinned wolfishly. "You like that, don't you."

Liz's brow puckered, dividing her attention between the breathtaking vision of Red's groin impacting against her, and the words being said.

"...Watching me fuck you." Red dropped his gaze to the real thing, watching his cock spread Lizzy's pussy apart.

Lifting her eyes to the mirror, she moaned lasciviously at the vision of Red loving her.

The muscle in his forearm flexed and bunched as he worked his hand between her thighs, where he mercilessly teased her clit. The firm muscles in his side pulled taut and rippled as his body moved determinedly over hers.

His thick thighs cradled her, cushioning the gentle impact of their bodies coming together.

Most hypnotizing, Red's expression as he slid deep and secure in her body. The look of ecstasy as his length became engulfed in her heat was enrapturing.

"...Yes." she rasped haltingly, the impact of his body against hers pushing the words from her throat.

Leaning over the woman's back, Red bunched her hair in his fist, gently tugging the handful at the roots like Lizzy loved.

"Yes... what." Red hissed, nipping the woman's shoulder with his teeth, his hot breath stirring the embers inside her body.

"Yes..." Her voice wavered with each punctuated thrust of Red's shaft, "...sir!"

Pushing her ass back, Liz took Red's cock wantonly, crying out jubilantly. The slap of his heavy come-filled balls against her clit was driving her insane!

Wrapping his arm about her waist, he held the woman stationary, fucking her little hole hard.

"I crave this little cunt of yours." Red spoke the truth. "I fucking need it as much as I do the air I breathe."

Shakily lifting her arm, Liz grasped Red's hand in hers, gripping it hard as an anchor... and for comfort.

"No one but you," Red stressed the words, for no one ever made him feel as sated, nor as loved as Lizzy, "gives me such overwhelming pleasure."

"Sir..." Liz mewled desperately, the word a mere sigh of enchantment.

"There is no one I fucking love more in this world..." Red nuzzled his nose into her nape, kissing the damp flesh. His breath was coming in short, concise gasps as his passion raised higher and higher, "...than...you!"

Cupping her mons, Red circled her tiny clit, gently tugging the swollen flesh in rhythm with his thrusts.

"Fucking come on me..." he gritted through clenched teeth. "Come on my cock, baby."

Shortening the length of his thrusts, Red increased the rhythm, bouncing Lizzy off his shaft in a hurried pace. As hoped, the tight hole quivered helplessly around him, pitching and rolling about his length in a fluttering wave.

"Yes, baby..." Red whispered breathlessly, "that's it..." he coaxed her to comply.

Panting, he desperately searched for the words to say which would push the woman over the edge.

Sensation tore through Elizabeth, leaving her arms too weak to withstand her light-weight. Lowering herself to the bed, she felt Red's cock shift inside her.

The fat head pushed straight against her g-spot before the entire length of the thick shaft followed.

"Oh, shit!" She whimpered shakily. Clawing at the bedding, her body tightened on its own accord, pressing Red's cock harder into that delicious spot.

"Tell me you want my come..." his deepened voice rasped.

"...Yes!" Liz arched her bottom, more than ready to take whatever he had to give, rasping the reply.

"Then... beg me for it." Red muttered tightly.

As expected, Lizzy wriggled her ass against him, pushing him deep into her body.

Even knowing the woman initiated the games they played, he knew well enough... she would need incentive to give him what he wanted.

Drawing back, Red pumped only a mere few inches inside her, demanding she obey his request. He grinned when she automatically moved back, searching for his full length.

The greedy little thing.

"No, baby." Red halted her intent. "Say the words... or I won't give you what you want." He grimaced, fighting against his own needs. "You don't want me to stop...do you?"

He hoped like hell she said something... anything to give them release. "You have five seconds," he desperately held back the urge to fuck her, game be damned, "... four, three–"

"Sir..." she choked out breathlessly, "g- give it to me," she pleaded, "Please! G-Give me your come..."

Shit... that was so much better than he anticipated.

"I will, baby." he promised, grasping the full weight of her breast in his hand. "I'll give you every fucking thing you want... and so much more."

Securing his grasp on the woman, Red pushed hard against the bundle of nerves, tightening Lizzy's pussy around his cock like a fucking vise.

"Be a good girl and come for, sir..." Red felt the telltale signs of her approaching orgasm... he held on tightly for control, for his own release was invading his mind and body. He wanted so very badly to... give in, just as his Lizzy had done for him.

Liz hurriedly stroked her clitoris, clamping her core tight around the man's erection.

"Yes, that's it, baby...come with me!" He snarled the words, pummeling the hot little hole with wild abandon.

Grasping hold of her pillow, Liz muffled her scream of release as she felt Red's rhythm falter and his hands grip her in a bruising embrace.

"Oh... fuck!" Red groaned a deep growl as Lizzy's pussy clamped hard around his cock and quivered, massaging the bulbous head in a mind-altering grasp.

Liz felt the rushed wash of Red's breath on her nape seconds before he awarded her a hot gush of his ejaculate.

Jerking his hips, Red held the woman stationary, pushing deep into the delectable sensation as he felt a sharp spasm in his balls. The swollen orbs contracted, sending his come rocketing down the length of his cock.

Searing bursts of come poured from his slit, further slicking the woman's hot cavern. He cried out hoarsely, admitting a certain type of defeat...one he could whole-heartedly live with.

Sounds muffled as his vision went black, the throbbing surge so intense, the arm he was braced on buckled. Locking his muscles in place, he barely caught himself before the full weight of his body collapsed on top of her smaller one.

Pulse after pulse of thick cream bathed her insides as he fought for breath and his sweat covered chest heaved helplessly against her back. "Damn..."

Slowly pushing the woman flat, Red slid his hand between the mattress and Lizzy's mound. Slowly circling her clit, both rode out the last of her spasms on his slow to deflate cock.

Red smiled proudly as the following aftershocks left the woman boneless and spent, trembling on the mattress beneath her.

Too lethargic to move, Red braced himself above the woman; his hot, panted breaths fanning her bare back.

"I love you..." he murmured, lovingly kissing her shoulders. Nuzzling the dark strands of her hair, Red exhaled shakily, a lethargic euphoria encompassing him.

Slowly sliding his erection free, he groaned as the heavy weight slid wetly along Lizzy's thighs.

Rolling to Lizzy's side, he smoothed his hand along her back, smiling at the woman laying serenely against the soft bedding.

"You're right," Liz lazily stretched, her rosy bottom lifting into the air, "it is a good morning."

Staring hungrily at the rounded ass moving about, Red felt his dick stir in response to the display.

"Baby, if you don't get out of this bed right now, you're gonna be heels up all fucking day." he warned.

"If that was a threat," Liz's eyes fluttered open, scooting closer to the man, "you had best work on that delivery," she teased and, as an afterthought, kissed the man's chest lovingly. "... Sir." The word, as always, caused Red's cock to twitch spasmodically.

He glanced at the useless thing, releasing a disheartened sigh.

Lowering his hand, Red moved it over the swell which had captured his attention, riveted by how soft the surface was under his calloused palm.

"But... I am starving." She licked his nipple before quickly rolling away from the arm that grabbed for her.

With one last ditch effort, Red flicked his hand, catching the woman full across the bottom of her ass cheeks... just where Lizzy loved it most.

Giggling, she padded naked towards the bathroom. Glancing back over her shoulder, she gave the man a saucy wink. "You have to feed me, it's in my contract."

Watching the woman intently, Red grunted under his breath for he enjoyed her returned confidence... a confidence he hoped Carver had not destroyed. He enjoyed something more though... the evidence of their lovemaking trickling down her thigh.

"Damn..." Red whispered. Shaking his head in effort to clear the hazy fog of lust, he rolled to his stomach, dropping his face into the pillow.

Laying in the quiet, he willed his sensitive cock to rest until it finally obeyed... for the most part.

Slowly lifting upright, Red scowled as he caught sight of something stuck between the headboard and mattress.

"I'm going to use all the hot water... are you coming?" Liz vowed cheerfully, then chuckled, her mind obviously still in the gutter. "Better move that succulent ass of yours."

"Worry about your own succulent little ass." Red's attention was suddenly fixed and directed.

Absently inching closer to the object of interest, Red cursed silently.

Well, fuck!

Grasping the radio, Red tugged it free from where it was wedged, releasing the button from its 'On' position.

The active green light faded...

Pressing the button once more, the green light relit just as it had been moments ago. He closed his eyes, realization dawning.

"Mark..." Red sighed heavily.

"Yes, Red?" Mark's badly muffled snort of laughter betrayed the idiot's attempt at seriousness.

"Not one fucking word to Lizzy." Red enunciated the warning, his words clipped. "Are you hearing that...as well as your other sordid, unconscionable, eavesdropping cronies?!"

The silence was deafening. For all of two seconds...

The silence was deafening. For all of two seconds...

Red's eye ticked when he heard a burst of laughter echo from the intercom on the device he held so tightly clenched in his hand.

"Copy that." Mark snickered lightly, fighting for a reserved, professional tone he absolutely did not achieve. "Never entered our minds, Red...hand to God."

Inhaling a cleansing breath, Red's mood suddenly mellowed as he was greeted with the sweet smell of sex... and Lizzy.

His attention shifted, turning towards the sounds emanating from the master bath. The woman was humming a nondescript song that he vaguely recognized.

"... I've dropped the soap," Liz said, her tone a playful one, "and you aren't here to see me pick it up." her tone sounded almost sullen.

Giving the radio one last irritable look, Red tossed it to the bedside table... grinning.

"No way in hell I'm going to miss that show, baby," he called back, "... hold on to that thought, and don't touch that soap... until I get there."

---

After a most enjoyable time in the shower, Red finally escorted Lizzy downstairs.

"So, you'll be with the girls for about.. what?" He checked his watch. "Well, whatever. Give me a call when we can reconnect. That work?"

"And you'll be along shortly because you have to check in with Dembe." Liz teased, having long since memorized the routine.

Red grinned, giving the woman a lingering kiss. "I hate this vacation has to end."

"All good things end, Red." Liz beamed happily at the man. "Not you and me, of course."

"Don't even start with the mushy shit." Silas took his place by the woman's side, ready for the call of duty. "Like I haven't heard enough of that today." he muttered sotto voce.

Nodding a greeting towards the head guard, Red's mood dropped by degrees. Behind the woman's back, Silas offered a shit-eating grin, casting knowledgeable eyes Red's way.

Okay, so the asshole guard obviously was in on the jerk-offs who heard his and Lizzy's early morning playtime. Why was Red not surprised. Red flipped Silas off as he took his leave.

The guard's grin widened considerably for such efforts.

Heading for Mark's office, Red opened the door... a silence once again met with his arrival. All in attendance turned his way. He suffered the knowing winks and smirking grins with as much dignity as he could muster.

Rolling his eyes heavenward, Red closed the door behind him with a definitive click. "Go ahead, get it out of your system." He turned, preparing himself.

Lifting placating hands, Mark chuckled. "Now, Red... we only wish to congratulate you on a job well done." The man clapped his hands together to prove his point. Applause rang out with rather boisterous cat-calls and whistles galore.

Offering those gathered a long, suffering look, Red lifted the lid on Mark's cigar box, scanning the selection available.

"I think I speak for all present," Mark checked with the others, "when I say, we were very impressed by your sexual prowess."

Red clipped the end of the cigar as the man blathered on.

"In fact," Mark leaned conspiratorially, "I think Michael should offer his sincere gratitude. Shortly after your rather impassioned performance, he and his charming wife excused themselves from our vivacious little group."

"Can you guess why?" Daniel was obviously busting to supply the answer.

Red refused to give him the satisfaction. He scanned the eager faces staring at him so expectantly.

Sitting down, the older man sighed his contentment as he settled back into the rich leather seat, dragging a heavy crystal tray within reach. Digging in his pocket, he found the lighter Lizzy gifted him.

Daniel's mood fell, for he sensed the answer would not be forthcoming.

"I gotta say though, I think you warped the shit out poor Dembe." the young cowboy tried again.

Red shifted his attention, withholding the urge to smile when he found Dembe with his ears covered... not listening to a damn thing being said, deep within the pages of an audio-book.

"Looked like a kid catching his parents fuckin'." Danny chuckled around his own cigar.

"He took the radio away just when everything was getting good too!" Mark nodded emphatically. "Spoil Sport!"

"And that's why Dembe can have his pick of any new vehicle he wishes to purchase." Red offered a sincere apologetic look, for the large man had glanced his way. "I'm sorry, guy."

Lowering the headphones covering his ears, Dembe scowled. "You are not."

Both men stared at one another stone faced until Dembe allowed a small smile.

Red returned the gesture, appreciating his friend's understanding... and acceptance.

"What were you doing to that innocent, impressionable young woman?" Mark interrupted the ensuing silence.

Red shifted a sage look. "Why, do you need a few pointers?"

"Maybe I do?" Mark scratched at his jaw absently, then shrugged. "Listening to the Master work... I have to admit, the reception you received was impressive."

Chewing the end of his cigar, Red fought the threatening smile, remembering just how involved Lizzy had been... both times.

"Buy the video when it comes out." Red mumbled, lighting the cigar in his mouth. "You heard the vocal portion already." he made a joke at his own expense.

"Oh, surely not!" Michael pushed his way into the room, his brow arching wryly. "We are all friends here, man. We should get some sort of discount, right chaps?"

"I heard you couldn't get any without my help." Red eyed the man critically. "You're welcome, in which case."

Giving Red a withering glance, Michael poured himself a drink. "If someone didn't get a little hot and bothered by that rather lively tour de force you put on... they're dead."

"You're back rather quickly, I note." Red made mention. "Didn't live up to Susan's expectations?" he asked, blowing a line of smoke in the air.

Michael clutched his chest, wounded by the painful words. His head canted after a moment's hesitation, shrugging blasé shoulders. "Well, I tried my version of an old Errol Flynn scene, but I'm not quite certain I pulled it off."

Red chuckled, appreciating Michael's dry delivery... or perhaps honesty.

"Who's Errol Flynn?" Mark twisted the knife a little, then grinned sheepishly as Danny cast him a baffled look.

"For those who didn't hear me earlier," Red strongly advised, "not a word to Elizabeth about our little... incident this morning."

"We are all rather offended you felt the need to issue the warning at all." Michael put on his best 'offended' face. "We are all gentlemen of the highest quality here."

"It's one thing to harass you about it," Daniel scolded, his tone serious, "we wouldn't do that to Elizabeth...or any woman."

Red swept the innocent faces with a bland stare.

"You're forgetting one thing, though." Mark felt he should mention all pertinent facts. "It wasn't only us that heard you..."

"There were also a couple of the ladies at the table." Daniel remembered the flushed faces vividly.

"I can head Amanda off." Mark offered his services. "But Susan and the others..."

Michael grimaced, lifting helpless hands. "I'd say you're screwed, old chap."

Red's head fell back into the soft leather, cursing his luck. "Son of a bitch..."

Why did these ridiculous things keep happening to him?

---

Shooing Silas to join Hunter and Matthew at a nearby table, Liz happily made her way to her gathered companions, all who had beckoned her over with bright, cheerful smiles of welcome.

Sitting down, she situated her plate of goodies, smiling at the others as she unwrapped her muffin.

"Good morning." She said, nodding her thanks to the server who brought her a drink. She smiled impishly at Lily, grasping the woman's hand in hers, "Oh, I am so glad you're here! What a wonderful surprise! That looks good." Liz motioned to the woman's fruit cocktail.

"Good morning, Elizabeth." Susan said a little too cheerfully as she offered over a serving platter of butter.

"Morning?" Liz answered just as brightly but then... scowled a bit. "Anything wrong?" She sought Emma to her left, suddenly realizing both women wore identical grins plastered on those pretty faces. "Okay, what's up?"

Dropping her napkin to her lap, Liz glanced between the rest of the ladies, her brow lifting into a stylish arch. The silence was telling.

"Okay..." she knew they were withholding something, "is my ass cheeks showing or something?" she checked her person, instantly seeking the women out once again.

"No," Susan unfurled her own napkin with a flourish, "but I'm sure Red wouldn't mind if they were."

Emma snorted into her tea glass, tittering softly.

Liz's forehead crinkled, laughing at the odd remark. "Excuse me?"

"I mean, after the show, you and your significant other put on this morning?" Susan teased; completely missing Liz's eyes widen in shock. "That radio was smoking hot, honey...as was I! Kudos to you!"

"... I would think Raymond would enjoy another display of... your particular brand of charm," Susan laughed merrily, then noticed Liz's blanched expression. "Immensely."

"Oh, my god..." Liz gasped, hiding her reddened face in her hands, realization dawning.

Slowly lowering her fork, Susan's brow furrowed. She noted the other woman's ashen features. "Oh...no." The lovely face pulled into a regretful grimace of empathy, realizing her faux pas instantly by Liz's reaction. "Shit." She closed her eyes. "... Me and my big mouth!" Susan uttered woefully.

Lily instantly put her hand over Elizabeth's, offering sympathy. "It's okay." She whispered.

Emma looked like she wanted to sink into the Earth. "Oh, sweety, we thought you..."

"I mean...you know?" Liz rasped tightly, wincing her embarrassment. "Y-You heard us... over the radio!" Her mortification was complete. "Oh...Jesus!"

"You didn't know?" Susan leaned, her hand covering her mouth. "I am so sorry, Liz. Truly I am."

Groaning pitifully, Liz dropped her face into her hands. Her long hair fell in a drape, hiding her flushed cheeks.

"Oh, honey," Susan tsked sympathetically, "... I just assumed Raymond would have said something."

Liz couldn't lift her head just yet, her mind going blank. How could she face her new-found friends now after such an embarrassing incident?

Silas sensed the way of things, having watched the debacle from afar. He sighed mentally, wracking his brain for a way to rescue the woman.

"Lizzy," Susan smiled warmly, "I was just making a bit of fun. I wouldn't have had I known..." she consoled. "Sometimes, I should just shut the hell up and..." the woman was more than exasperated with herself, "and shut the hell up!" she finished lamely.

"I am so sorry." Liz croaked her despair.

Rubbing Liz's arms, Susan ducked her head, catching Lizzy's eyes. "Really... don't feel that. If that's the worst thing that happens to you? A hot, sensual man makes love to you and people get to actually..."

Amy shook her head hastily, and Susan caught herself this time.

"Well, let's just say you have all the bragging rights in the world." Susan stated blithely. "Rights no one can dispute."

Liz slowly met the woman's eyes, her expression askew.

"You've got too many damned witnesses for anyone to dispute the claim." Susan tittered, relieved Lizzy thankfully responded in kind. For the other woman's mouth twitched irresistibly, the blue eyes softening. "I would take the stand for you... swear to God." Susan held up her hand to be sworn in.

Liz titled her head questioningly, sensing the woman was genuinely upset they had blundered into such a mess of a situation.

She glanced around the table and all she saw was sympathetic, understanding stares.

"We love ya, honey." Emma reached over the table in a show of solidarity. "Susan... of anyone here should get down and do obeisance to you. Michael pulled out all the stops to top Red's performance..."

"Hey!" Susan laughed musically. "Now who is touting private shit?" She saw the humor shaking her head. "But... he did. I was quite taken-aback by my own husband's abilities. He stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the damned park, all because Michael wasn't about to be outdone by your upstart of a boyfriend."

The women tried to hold their chuckles but Liz had relaxed, sensing the worst had passed and her friends were just that...

Susan sighed lightly, shrugging her shoulders. "Let's all face it, there isn't one of us that was not impressed by Red Reddington's performance as a male." She pseudo-fanned herself. "That man is pure alpha, from his fancy fedora down to those sexy toes."

Laughing, Liz felt her shoulders relax by degrees. "His toes are kinda sexy."

"He raises the bar and the other men fall into line." Susan said, spreading jam on her bagel. "I love that about him."

Liz giggled behind her hand, thankful for the woman's outlook and her friendship.

"My god, Liz," Susan felt forgiven, reverting to her old self, clanking her butter knife down on the tabletop, leaning closer, lowering her voice, "what was he doing to you up there?"

The women were suddenly all ears.

Silas relaxed finally, seeing the status quo had just shifted back into neutral. He sat back, shaking his head for the ways the female mind could twist and turn.

Whatever the problem had been, they had clearly worked it out, for which he was grateful. Liz appeared to have come through the worst part and all seemed kosher again with her tribe.

"I couldn't see a damn thing, but it was the hottest sex I've been privy to!" Emma grinned her growing excitement, sharing in her friend's good fortune. "Oh! I mean... besides Danny, that is." she hastily corrected. "Of course." She demurely sat back, smiling in a most lady-like fashion.

Susan snorted, choking on her tea. "Danny is a little baby boy compared to our resident Don Juan."

"It was rather," Amanda offered a sly grin around the table, "... steamy." She rolled her eyes expressively. "My nether regions were all in bunch, let me tell you."

"Will you guys stop it." Liz whined, her cheeks flushing despite her self-control. "This is a very private thing."

"Well, not if you would stop being so prudish." Susan scowled. "We can only live vicariously. So come on, girl, spill the beans!"

"Yes, Liz," Lily lay her chin in her palm, "paint us a picture..." she coaxed the woman to share her adventures.

Liz's mouth fell agape. "Oh, my God. Look what you women have done! Even Lily is corrupted by your evil ways!"

The group was delighted to hear of their success.

"I mean it!" Liz patted the young girl's arm sympathetically. "You just stop listening to them, Lily."

"I might get some pointers." The sweet, innocent eyes blinked over to Liz then, the girl dropped those eyes instantly, blushing terribly. "Oh, my goodness. I think you're right." She giggled infectiously.

Liz did not see Harper's expression soften tenfold as he watched the interaction between all the women gathered.

"Good grief!" Liz stated peevishly. "There's no hope for any of you."

Amanda leaned towards Emma, both women supporting each other through their delighted giggles of amusement.

"What was it that Raymond did exactly?" Susan rudely interrupted the by-play, more important matters to be discussed than morality. "I'm intrigued, as we all are, you understand."

"And don't try to talk yourself out of it." Emma caught the drift, eagerly bringing the conversation three hundred and sixty degrees. "He convinced you to call him... sir." It wasn't an accusation but an accolade, said so breathlessly. "How?! And... what did it feel like?"

"Down girl." Susan, always the mature one, gained control of the situation. "I'll handle the adult matters."

"I-I thought I heard you say that as well." Melissa confessed, clearly embarrassed to be discussing the topic so openly but desperately wanting to fit in with the popular crowd. "But over the other, uh... sounds, I wasn't positive." She glanced at Liz curiously. "You did, right? And, if so... why ever would you? What does it mean?"

Liz straightened, not the least bit embarrassed to have shared that... with Red, at least. "It's just... a game of sorts."

"Well, I know that?" Missy frowned. "I'm not naïve about such things. My question is.. why would you want to play such a silly game?"

Taking a deep breath, Liz glanced between the ladies. "It's a very personal..." she swallowed, uncertain if she wanted to go this route at all, "but if you must know...it's how I let Red know it's fine with me if he wants to become more...dominant."

"Whoa ho ho!" Emma gasped her joy, clapping her hands excitedly. "I'm getting so hot!" she exclaimed loudly then, at the men's reaction at the nearby table, the woman ducked her head, giggling her embarrassment.

"What? Really." Missy looked at the others, her brow furrowed. "We shouldn't be discussing this and you all know it."

"They were playing dominant and submissive roles." Susan replied cryptically, "And you aren't the least bit interested? Are you dead?"

"Oh!" Missy's mouth dropped open, then snapped shut. "But..isn't that supposed to be where...isn't there... uhm... whips and chains and stuff like that involved with such...games?"

"If you're wanting to know if Red has spanked me," Liz broke in, interrupting the woman, her temper flaring a bit. "Just ask!"

Emma, Amy and Amanda leaned forward, their interest rapt. "We're asking." Susan snapped briskly.

"Yes, he has." Liz said, primly sipping her own tea. "And it was fantastic! In fact, I can't wait for him to do it again. Hopefully harder, next time." If they wanted juicy gossip, she would give it over.

"Oh, hell yeah!" Emma squealed her delight, earning a small chuckle from Amy and even Lily.

Silas and the other guards turned towards the sound, their expressions amused and suddenly very interested in the 'goings-on' at the opposite table from their perspective.

"H-has he hurt you?" Missy stuttered over the words.

"Of course not!" Liz frowned at the absurd question.

Amy sat back out of the crossfire, glancing at Emma and Amanda, her brows lifting high on her forehead.

"Would you tell us if he had?" Missy asked, seriously.

"Red would never harm me." Liz scowled hard at the woman opposite her.

Feeling the sudden tension blanketing the table, Emma cleared her throat, scooting her chair closer. "Okay, point taken. This has gone far enough, everyone." She was the voice of reason, sensing Liz was being pushed too far.

"You're right." Susan nodded. "We've had our fun now... we're all adults here. Let us endeavor finally to act the part. We should all thank Liz for being such a good sport and hopefully, looking past our juvenile behavior."

"The truth is, Lizzy." Emma's smile softened. "We all very much admire and respect your man... and we love you dearly, so... I hope this time hasn't soured you against us as a group?"

She seemed to be holding her breath. Liz was debating the question, to be truthful.

Emma gripped Lizzy's hand. "You have become very important to us. I hope you know we were only teasing you. And that we envy the hell out of your situation."

"But mostly," Susan had to have the last word or die, "we envy you Red's cock."

Laughter broke out, but it was subdued in case Lizzy wasn't ready to forgive and forget.

"I don't see what's so amusing about this?" Missy frowned, turning concerned eyes towards Liz.

"Oh, lighten up." Amanda disdained. "Red would rather drag his dick through hot coals than hurt Lizzy."

"A man should not hit a woman." Missy stated emphatically. "He should not raise his hand..."

"My god, haven't you ever been spanked before?" Emma was stunned and appalled by such a notion, clearly.

"Of course not!" Missy staunchly denied experiencing such a thing.

"Well, then... you're missing out, sister." Emma winked, nudging Lizzy with her shoulder. "Let me clue you in!"

"You mean you and Danny..." Liz whispered.

"It's a Texas prerequisite to foreplay, honey." Emma snapped her fingers in the crisp air. "A good swat or two will put me in the mood every time." she confided. "You want to ride this ride? You better know how to swing a lariat about correctly... or a nice, calloused palm, if you forgot your equipment."

"What do you mean?" Missy's frown deepened.

"Baby girl, there are any number of ways to let your man know you need an attitude adjustment," Emma explained. "And you don't always have to be exactly subtle in how you get their attention."

"I can't believe I am hearing this!" Missy gaped her shock.

"Don't knock it until you try it, angel cakes." Emma suggested, her smile a sweetly innocent one. "There's something to be said about the primal trait trapped in a man's soul." she sighed airily. "I do love a man who pays attention to details so well."

"I admit," Susan said, "considering Raymond's past... I am surprised he opened himself back up to the game. It left a nasty taste in his mouth, I should imagine. How did you get him to come around?"

"The past doesn't define or dictate our actions." Liz stated quietly. "We're seeing what works best for us in our relationship."

Susan's mouth quirked at the corner, her eyes dancing mischievously. "I applaud your noble goals. Michael, too, has had his hang-ups regarding the past." She confessed. "Perhaps it's time we discussed matters openly and frankly, as you and Red obviously have done."

Missy whipped her head about, gaping openly at Susan.

Susan gave the woman a scolding glance. "You really do need to broaden your outlook, honey."

Spearing a piece of melon, Susan popped it in her mouth. "A little alpha male in the bedroom never killed anybody." She chewed thoughtfully. "Unless you count la petite mort as a literal death."

"Bottom line? I'm sorry we subjected you all to such a private display," Liz simplified the explanation for the others. "It certainly was not intentional on anyone's part."

"It was intentional on my part." Susan begged to differ. "We could have simply turned the damned thing off, though...you're right."

"It was just too damned hypnotic." Emma admitted. "If it had been me and Danny, I would have been mortified. Liz, you handled this admirably. My hat is off to you, girl... really."

"And her dear friends didn't help the matter any." Amanda felt her inadequacies. "Susan is right, we all have ginormous mouths that most times should be taped shut."

"It's okay." Liz finally could breathe. "Really, I know you guys were just giving me the business. I don't even know how the whole thing came about, to be truthful." She racked her brain. "We keep that darned radio close at all times. Which probably will change now." She managed a weak grin. "No... which will definitely change now."

"Bummer." Susan pretended annoyance. "There goes my voyeur tendencies, I guess... down the proverbial drain."

"Are you happy, honey?" Amy asked seriously. "Cause if you are, and you really love Red, that's all that counts and you know it." The woman nodded her belief. "Chalk this episode up to one colossally stupid mistake on our part and keep focused on what truly matters. You and that gorgeous hunk of man you have managed to trap in your web."

"I am happy." Liz admitted. "More than I ever thought possible... and these games." She hesitated. "They have actually brought us closer on so many levels. I thought it might be odd, calling Red," she grimaced adorably, "well, you know. It hasn't been like I imagined, though. Not at all." Realization dawned. "... It's been very freeing."

"Maybe we all could use a little more openness in our relationships." Emma replied. "What any two consenting adults do in the privacy of their own home, or hotel room... is their own business. If this lesson has taught us nothing else, it has taught that fact."

"I agree." Amy said. "Amen to that."

"Unless, of course, there's a radio nearby." Susan quipped, causing the ladies to snicker playfully and Liz to groan her misery.

"Why you haven't married that man yet is beyond me." Emma mentioned, gathering her eggs on the end of her fork. "If he's one to encourage play like we heard? Girl?" The little cowgirl made her point. "That's a 'one in a million' man... I'd snatch him up quick."

Startling at the unexpected observance, Liz hastily collected herself. "We're going to get married–"

"When?" Susan jumped on the subject change. "We have heard nothing about a 'date' as yet. Are you deliberately keeping us in the dark? What a mean, low thing to do."

"Oh, you mean like listening in on someone's private bedroom shenanigans?" Liz jibed artfully.

"It's so much lower than that." Susan debated. "One is good, clean..." she had the grace to accept her small failings, "okay, kinda dirty fun... the other is cruel and unusual punishment."

"Isn't that kinda dramatic?" Liz stuffed a piece of muffin in her mouth, trying desperately to think of a subject which might waylay Susan Fairfax's curiosity. "Besides, we haven't actually set a date yet."

Susan's mouth dropped. "What?!" The comical remark was drawn out for 'dramatic' effect.

"Let it go, Susan." Amy muttered the warning. "Again... none of our business."

"What's to set?" Susan scoffed. "It's not like Red can't afford it on the fly. Surely you have discussed plans, right? For example... wherever would you go?"

The bite in her mouth turned to ash, making it nearly impossible to swallow. Grabbing her drink, Liz forced herself to sip the liquid lest she choke on it.

"Oh, I've always wanted a wedding in Barbados." Amanda clasped her hands together excitedly. "Or maybe... Italy! In the wine country."

"No, no..." Emma shook her head stoutly. "I'm having my wedding in the great state of Texas! At Kirkwood Baptist Church. Wild horses couldn't drag me anywhere else."

"I always wanted just a small, intimate wedding." Lily piped up, her soft voice garnering everyone's attention.

Susan snapped her a look. "Why ever would you want that? Men are here to spend their money on us. The sooner you get that, the better, sweetheart." Susan patted Lily's hand gently. "You stick with me, child. I will show the ropes."

"We've heard from everyone but the actual bride to be..." Amy reminded. "What do you want, Liz?"

Liz found she didn't really mind that question. She had been thinking about the matter on and off now for days. "All I know for certain is..." she shared breathlessly, "I want something warm and lovely and quiet and... joyous." She took a breath. "Surrounded by everyone I care about and love."

"Well, shit." Susan balked. "Now you've gone and made me get all weepy." She sniffed her annoyance. "I hate getting all weepy."

"So no date, huh?" Amanda shrugged slender shoulders. "Doesn't sound like Red Reddington to me. To let you dangle about for some other man to..."

"Mr. Reddington would cut off another guy's dick if he so much as looked at her." Emma scoffed.

"Well, Red's just been so busy and–" Liz grasped at any excuse coming to mind.

"Busy, ha!" Susan waved a dismissive hand. "The way Raymond looks at you... the heat would melt metal. Trust me, he'd make the time." She was wise enough to recognize the signs. "Hell, he'd give you anything you wanted... just for the honeymoon alone."

"Susan!" Liz laughed quietly. "Like I said, he's just been busy. A wedding is the last thing he should be worrying about." she assured. "It'll happen. Maybe not tomorrow or next month, but eventually."

"But by that time, we'll be spread all over hell's half acre." Amanda was suddenly depressed. "It's been one of the best times here at Mark's I can remember." She smiled at all her contemporaries. "Right? Wouldn't a wedding be the perfect ending to a perfect vacation, is all I'm saying."

"Well, yeah, but we can't expect Liz to schedule something that important around our schedules." Amy laughed at the absurdity. "Just because we're all here and wanting to see it happen for her."

The mood at the table dropped somewhat. Each woman sighed; most hopeless romantics at heart, truth be told.

"A wedding takes planning and preparation." Lily pointed out.

The ladies around the table frowned at one another until Susan grinned. "We got a full-fledged committee sitting right at this table."

The seed of hope took root. "Well, that's true, actually." Amanda agreed.

"There is nothing we can't do together if we set our minds." Susan egged that sprout on. "We could give Liz the most brilliant wedding this place has ever seen."

"Now, wait a minute..." The turn of events flabbergasted Liz.

"Has anyone ever told you..." Amy seconded that emotion. "That you're a little pushy, Susan? This has to be Liz's decision."

"No one's ever told me any such thing." The notion was absolutely dismissed. "We could fly to Houston or Dallas to get the gown...it's not like Red doesn't own a jet."

Someone pulled out a writing pad and pen. "I could cover the catering. Mark's people are some of the best in the world." Amanda warmed to the idea.

"I know a band that will knock your socks off." Emma perked up. "Danny knows the lead singer!"

"I love weddings." Lily smiled brightly, caught up in the growing excitement.

"Oh, uhm," Liz panicked, "I don't know..." her voice quivered anxiously as she struggled for a reply. "It's so nice of you guys to want to... I mean, we don't have a license or–"

"Well, then…" Susan put down her napkin, pushing upright from her seat. The woman was a born decision maker. "Let's go talk to Mark, shall we? Maybe he might just know where to get one."

Liz felt the muffin she ate turn to stone in her stomach as the girls dragged her from her seat...

"No...no, I don't think we should disturb the men right now." The turn of events dumbfounded Liz. She threw Silas a look, hoping the guy would pick up on her dilemma and offer assistance.

The man was up on his feet, instantly at her side, without seeming to move except in one fluid motion. "Okay, you cackling hens... what's up?" He barred the way, his bulk taking up the small space they had to tread to exit the area. He caught the panic in Liz's eyes. "I smell something and it's not Chanel No. 5. What are you up to?"

"Out of the way, gorgeous." Susan tried to shoo the man aside. "We have plans to execute."

"Well, it'll just have to wait until you settle down and tell me the problem, cause..." he swept Susan Fairfax with a masculine gaze, "you won't get past me... until you do."

"Who died and made you head honcho?" Emma wanted to know. "I can go pretty well where I please and I don't need no man's permission to do so, honey."

"It's just that," Liz hastened to explain more to Silas than the women, "I know Red and Mark had a really important thing to discuss... and maybe it's not a good time to interrupt?" She pleaded with her eyes. "You probably would know, right?"

"We're not interrupting, we are seeking advise." Susan pointed out. "On a very important matter, Security Person!"

"Yeah, the men probably shouldn't be disturbed right now." Silas winced apologetically. "It's a bad time, right enough."

"You'll have a bad time if you don't move that amazing body of yours out of my walking path." Susan promised faithfully.

"I don't think you're big enough to make me, Buttercup." Silas pursed his lips sensually, sending a kiss her way.

---

Sitting reclined back in his seat, Red swirled the dark amber in his tumbler. Danny was going off... still, about some deal that had gone South. The sound of excited chatter came filtering into the room from the corridor outside, perking Red's interest somewhat.

All turned their attention as Susan and the other women came rushing through the door, flushed face and out of breath, literally pulling Lizzy in tow behind them.

All conversation had stopped, all eyes on the bevy of lovely intruders into this very male domain.

Red's smile sobered somewhat after a brief hesitation, his attention intent on Elizabeth... and Elizabeth alone.

The woman's eyes sought his, a slight panic behind the usually captivating blueness.

She was smiling at whatever Emma was chattering on about, but Red knew... Lizzy was nervous.

No, scratch that. She was apprehensive as hell.

Something was wrong.

Silas arrived on scene, wet and dripping. Cursing like a sailor, his own expression less than friendly for the same... intruders.

Susan held her giggle, striving for a serious expression. "That Security Person accidentally fell into the pool... can you tell him he's dripping on your carpet, Mark?"

Silas started forward but Liz sighed lightly, warding off any bodily harm lawsuits. "It's okay, Silas." Even she had not anticipated little five-foot-two Emma Evans would have been able to push Silas' hulking bulk into that pool. It had been quite the spectacle to behold, even in her present mood.

"Mark," Susan approached the man, the obvious spokeswoman of the group, "we have a question to put to you."

"Would it be possible to get a marriage license, for say, tomorrow?" Amanda pushed through Silas' sopping figure to excitedly squeal the request.

Sitting his tumbler down, Mark grinned, leaning his ass back onto his desktop. "I suppose I could call in a favor if need be." He said, casually crossing his arms. "Who is it that's getting married, pray tell?"

Red watched as all eyes turned towards... Elizabeth, just as he thought they might.

Lizzy had suddenly turned an interesting shade of sickly green the moment they mentioned the marriage license... it was rather easy to put all the pieces together of the gathering puzzle.

Liz slowly lifted her eyes to Red, uncertain of what, if any emotions, might be reflected back. She knew she was reeling from the sudden whirlwind in which they had thrown her head first.

The man's quiet gaze melted her heart. As always, he appeared calm and collected in the eye of the storm. His attention was focused and direct.

"You're a bitch, Susan." Silas snapped, sensing the embarrassment Liz must be feeling along about now.

"Wait a minute now, old man." Michael stepped up, ready to do battle for his lady fair.

"No, he's right." Susan waved a dismissive hand. "What about it, Reddington? Are you going to step up and do the right thing, or are we going to have to push your ass into the pool accidentally as well?"

"May I point out, ladies." Mark, always the voice of reason, intervened. "It's customary for the bride and groom to ask for a wedding license, not the members of the..."

"We're all here... it could be great fun, sweetheart." Amanda practically whined.

"And Lily so loves weddings." Emma pointed out the most important thing, surely.

"They are obviously made for each other." Amanda added the sugar and spice, her pout melting Mark's cold, dead heart.

"So... what will it be, Red?" Susan put the man on the spot, to Liz's ever growing mortification.

"That, my dear Susan, is up to the beautiful bride. I'm merely set decoration." Red pushed from his seat, walking towards his fiancé. "If this is what Elizabeth wishes to do..." he held the blue eyes hypnotically as he approached, "who am I to spoil the fun and festivities? I will definitely show up... with bells on."

Grasping Elizabeth's trembling arm, Red guided her towards a side door. "But this is a matter best discussed in private, I think." He cut Susan a look. "So... if you'll excuse us a minute. Or... even if you won't..."

Escorting Lizzy through a convenient doorway, Red silenced the woman before she could utter a word.

"Hush..." He shushed, closing the door behind them. "Okay... from the beginning if you will." he said, giving her the all clear once inside the quiet of the room.

"Oh... my... god!" Liz clapped her hands over her face once again, allowing her panic free rein.

Leaning a free hand casually on a nearby chair back, Red patiently waited for the woman to release her... frayed nerves.

"Shit... what are we gonna do!" Liz hurriedly paced, her movements jerky and disoriented.

"What exactly was it that brought about this highly entertaining episode?" Red asked, centering the woman's chaotic thoughts.

"It was just...one catastrophe after another." Liz hurriedly rambled off the statement in one breath, her eyes wide and wild. "First the fact... oh, my God, Red... they heard us making love over that awful radio!" She gulped for air. "Can you imagine the horror I felt? And then, somehow, out of the blue... marriage came up for discussion and before I knew it..."

Red allowed her to babble on, for it seemed to be getting it all out, at least.

"And, and... I tried to head them off but," the long hair swished with her negative disbelief, "Emma pushed Silas into the pool and they were running and laughing and...so...here we are and I don't know what to say to you."

She dropped her head jerkily. "I should have had more balls...I should have told them to mind their own–"

Red grasped the woman's arm, pulling her into his embrace, placing his mouth to hers... silencing the tirade.

"It's all right..." he murmured quietly, his warm breath brushing her damp lips with sweet, soft caresses. "Everything is just fine, baby. It's great, actually!"

"What are we going to do?! And why didn't you tell me!" Liz smacked Red's chest... hard, a thought racing in her head now for some few moments. "About that fucking radio! Did you even know?"

Laughing quietly, Red caught Lizzy's hands, tucking them against his chest.

"Calm down." Red murmured evenly, his tone a soothing one... he hoped. "It'll be fine."

"How can you say that!" Liz's panic returned full force.

Red shook his head, chuckling.

"We can say..." Liz searched for a way out of the situation, ideas flashing one by one in her feverish brain, "I don't know, that m-maybe you got pissed at me for not including you in all this fiasco before it got out of hand. We can pretend to be mad at each other so we don't have to even address–"

"Marry me, Lizzy." Red interrupted the nervous babbling once more.

"What!" Liz jerked her head upright, open to all suggestions.

"...Marry me." Red repeated the statement.

Blinking rapidly, Liz tried to comprehend the words... but the process was too long, too difficult right now.

Recognizing Lizzy wasn't quite firing on all cylinders as yet, Red caught her chin, directing her attention where he needed it to be.

"I was under the impression we planned to marry, eventually." Red stated the words slowly, precisely... clearly. "Am I correct in that assumption?"

"Y-Yes." Liz knew the answer to that question, at least.

"You wish to spend your life with me, and I wish to spend my life... with you." Red held Lizzy's blue eyes willfully. "That is something we both want, correct?"

"...Yes." Liz replied, gripping Red's lapel in her hands. "Yes, I want that."

"Good...I want that too." Red smiled, kissing her apple cheeks adoringly.

Liz relaxed in Red's hold, snuggling closer to his comfort and stability.

"Y-You don't think we're moving a little too fast?" Liz has to ask, swallowing hard at the growing lump in her throat. "I mean... the engagement period is for you to learn all about things I do that annoy the shit out of you... giving you a chance to run if worse comes to worst."

"That's not gonna fucking happen." Red kissed the tip of her nose in open affection.

"You don't know that." Liz replied, her tone sullen.

"Lizzy, we've known each other for quite a while now... and it's not always been pleasant between us, am I correct in that observation?"

Liz ducked her chin, remembering all their previous arguments, or more to the point, her distrust in him and the awful things she said in the past. "...Yes."

"But we've changed... grown." Red said, smiling softly. "We've been living under the same roof for months now, learning to love one another, am I right?" he reminded.

"... Yes." Liz nodded agreeably, feeling her love for the man grow with each passing second.

"Another year, or a lifetime, will not change the way I feel about you," Red felt that with every fiber of his being, "... except maybe I'll love you even more than I do right now."

Liz watched the man raise their clasped hands to his mouth before he reverently kissed her ring.

Cupping the woman's head in his palm, Red stroked his fingers soothingly through Lizzy's long hair, nuzzling her nose with his own.

"Shadow and light, night and day, good and evil..." He pulled Lizzy's body flush against his own, "male and female..." his voice lowered to a husky rasp, "one cannot survive without the other."

Liz blinked rapidly, hearing and feeling the words spoken.

"We can't survive without one another..." Red stressed his belief. "Or at the very least, I sure as hell can't live without you." His intensity made her believe those words. "I have no desire to do so. None... whatsoever, Lizzy."

Liz couldn't imagine a life without Red... she didn't want to!

"You are my equal," he brushed his lips against Lizzy's soft ones, "we complete one another."

Allowing the words to repeat in her head, Liz felt a sudden surge of contentment fill her.

The relationship... the marriage, Red felt they would have... it was basically two souls joining together as one, and the idea was breathtaking. To share something so deep with another, to trust that person implicitly, was beyond anything she could imagine.

You were their beginning, and they were your end.

"After these past couple days," Red searched Lizzy's face methodically, tenderly kissing her lips, "after everything we've been through..."

Liz searched the man's face religiously, hanging on every word he said.

"It has come to my attention, I have absolutely no desire to wait a fucking year," Red held the woman tight to his warmth, "to call you my wife."

The words thrilled Liz to the very core. To have something she longed for so close and within reach caused a well of excitement to churn her tummy in the best way imaginable.

Liz could swear she felt a warm energy transmit through their touch, one that hadn't been there before. The tingling sensation traveled through her limbs and chest, making her feel warm, safe... treasured.

For the first time in her life, she finally understood what it meant to feel a connection with another... with a soul mate.

"I'll be fucking damned if I go to my grave without claiming you as my own." Red kissed the woman deeply, taking the breath from her body. "I can't wait another moment. Marry me... tomorrow."

The door opened silently, Mark Donovan taking in the sight afforded him. The man dressed in the three-piece suit, holding the tiny woman, clad in shorts and sneakers. "I've held them off as long as humanly possible." He apologized with his look.

Red grinned retroactively. Lizzy blinked, wide-eyed.

"So..." Mark clapped his hands together, his smile lighting the room, for he already knew the answer to the question he was going to ask, "can I ... or can I not shut Susan Fairfax the hell up? Are we having a wedding?"

Red stared at Elizabeth for an eternal moment, waiting for her answer.

She looked away from Mark's impish expression, back to Red, meeting his eyes, her own blue ones full of longing and hope.

"Yes." she whispered huskily. "Yes... we are."