"Lizzy, you have to go to the hospital." Red sighed lightly at the protest offered by the woman.
"Call Mr. Kaplan." Liz whined. "I don't want to go sit in some hospital room for three hours only to have them tell me, go home and take some pills." The woman was getting in a pissy mood, having to deal with the pain and heat. "Mr. Kaplan will get me home in record time and I get the good stuff with her, Red."
"I know, baby, but Mr. Kaplan isn't here, is she." Red tried reason. "We're in Texas."
"Protocol dictates you have to go to the hospital, Keen. You know that."
"It's Reddington." The woman snapped the reminder to a surprised Ressler. "Keep out of this. This is my call. Back off."
Red held his tongue because, after a couple years of saying Keen, it was obviously a slip on Ressler's end, and Lizzy was handling the matter, but... "She's my wife." He had to have some input. "I will make the call. Not the bureau...or you."
"Look, I'm just saying. Me and Samar are the agents on scene." Ressler explained his point of view and reasoning, more to Liz than Reddington, of course. "Cooper will expect–"
"I don't give a damn what Cooper expects. I will accompany Elizabeth to the hospital." Red assumed his rights. "Not you."
Looking up from her dazed stupor, Liz sensed the sudden tension and animosity between the two men.
"Look," Ressler squared his stance, bracing his hand on his hips, "I have a responsibility to my partner. I don't know why you're getting all bent out of shape."
"I'm not bent out of shape." Red stated his thoughts on the matter. "If I were? I'd put a bullet between your fucking eyes and walk away with no further thought to you than I would give a passing Uber driver."
Lizzy's mouth formed a perfect 'O'. Her eyes were wide and shocked.
"Elizabeth is my wife. Therefore, she is my responsibility." Red continued undauntedly. "Has nothing to do with you or the organization you work for. So, I would suggest you step the hell away and mind your own fucking business."
"If she's your responsibility," Ressler's jaw tightened, "why'd you let her get shot."
"Oh, man..." Liz whispered her awe. She knew Ressler wasn't the brightest bulb in the package, but she hadn't realized he was that damn dim.
Zeroing flint lock like eyes on the man, Red took a menacing step forward. "Excuse me?" The low, almost soothing quality of the man's tone caused chills to run the length of Liz's spine.
"You heard me." Ressler pushed the issue, but Samar noted the man wisely did not repeat himself.
"Perhaps," Samar hurriedly placed herself between Ressler and the danger he faced, "it would be best if we all just stepped back and took a deep breath." She eased hot tempers. "We're needed here for the duration," she glared at her partner, "and obviously, this is a problem outside our jurisdiction...you need to step down, Agent."
"...Red?" Liz quietly beckoned her husband, defusing the situation in her own way. "...I feel like shit." She told the truth. "Can you..." She swallowed, closing her eyes.
It was oppressively hot in the back of the ambulance, increasing a bout of nausea and the headache building behind her eyes. Throbbing pain pulsed through her arm, increasing the sting to uncomfortable proportions.
"I'd kill for some real time pain relief and if that makes me a pussy, don't tell Silas I asked for it." She lay back, grateful for the coolness of the pillow. She opened her eyes, reaching out her hand, which Red immediately took, having climbed into the transport rapidly, seeing her state.
Liz smiled up at him. "You always claim you'd kill for me." She whispered for his ears alone. "This would be an opportune time, just saying." She discretely motioned to the attendant filling out some damned report out on the tarmac. "He won't see it coming. Grab that little bag. I'll cause a distraction."
Red's temper cooled, sensing her ploy. "I know you're in pain, baby." He winced for her.
Samar tensed when Reddington moved with startling swiftness, but it was clear after a few seconds, his attention was for one thing and one thing alone. "You know their damned rules. Nothing until you see a doctor."
"Ergo...Mr. Kaplan?" Liz blinked innocently. "I love that woman. I'd turn to the dark side for her, especially if she were here now to give me drugs."
Red's face etched with concern. "Let's get this damn thing moving." He growled aside to the driver. "My wife is in pain, dammit!" He stiffened, returning his attention for a beat. "I'll get you out of here, sweetheart."
He left her side for a moment, and then he was back, and the ambulance doors shut. Within seconds, the vehicle moved out of the area.
"I love it when you get all medieval on people." Liz laid back, sighing her relief.
Watching the vehicle move rapidly away, Samar turned an angry glare her partner's way.
"What?" Ressler crossed his arms over his chest defiantly, his own look an almost petulant one.
Taking the needed steps, Samar crowded into his space. "I don't know what the hell your problem is," she snapped quietly, "but you're treading a fine line!" She warned. "Reddington is this far from putting a bullet in you and if you think you're somehow immune to his wrath? You better think again, idiot."
"He can try," Ressler scoffed.
"Try, and succeed!" Samar grabbed the man's arm, forcing his attention. "Whatever you think you had for Liz–"
Stiffening, Ressler jerked his head about, an incredulous look on his face. "I don't know what you–"
"It ends here, and now!" Samar narrowed her dark eyes, daring the man to refute all said. "You got that!"
Though she wasn't privy to everything that occurred leading up to their marriage, Samar knew Reddington and Liz shared a mutual love for one another.
How deep that love went, only they knew for certain. Whatever the case, they married and intended to stay the course. Or that's the impression she got of late.
In the few short days in their company, Samar witnessed the affection they shared, and how happy both appeared. After Liz's farce of a marriage to Tom Keen, it was nice to see Reddington treating the woman so well.
Even if their marriage was one of convenience, which Samar didn't believe for one second, she would damn well keep her observations to herself and support her colleague and friend if the situation arose.
It appeared her support was needed now.
In Samar's world, what a man and woman shared was between themselves and it was none of anyone else's fucking affair.
Scoffing his derision, Ressler shifted a defiant gaze out across the hot tarmac, his thoughts his own.
"Whether you like it or not, they're married and intend to stay that way." Samar stated a truth as she knew it. "Fucking deal with it."
"There's no fucking way she can be in love with that kind of man."
"It's none of your business!" She raised her voice and at his disdainful grimace. "Let me put it another way." She licked her lips thoughtfully. "If I see you act in such an unprofessional way again toward a fellow agent, I'll report your smarmy ass myself. Is that clear enough for you?"
Ressler's face showed his disbelief.
Samar lifted her head, her dark eyes flashing the fire of battle. She stalked away; her temper high, having meant every fucking word of her declaration.
LIZZINGTON
Red had stood patiently by as the doctor stitched up Lizzy's wound. She was restless and irritable after sitting in the ER all the time they had to wait.
Red made a promise to her and himself. "Baby, I'll make sure we have some medical stations set up in this area from now on."
"We won't be here that long, Red." She had taken his hand, kissing the roughened knuckles lovingly. "But it might be good for your people down here."
He seemed distracted and restless himself to the woman.
"Besides, we're no different than anyone else out in that waiting room." She reminded herself more than the man, for she had really disliked the wait. "You've just spoiled me rotten, and I'm not used to being normal any longer." She teased. "You've created a monster. That's what Silas says, anyway. Do you think he is getting any rest, Red? Tell me the truth."
"Silas will always do exactly as he wants to do, woman." Red told the truth. "We can wish and bribe and bitch," he shrugged "but I hope he found some downtime and," he sighed lightly, "some peace of mind. That's all we can hope for though, baby, right? Where he is concerned."
"He needs someone who can kick his ass." Liz decided. "Can't you do that, Red? I mean, if you really, really wanted to?"
"Even if I could? I wouldn't." He knew as much. "I threaten." He grinned. "But his friendship means the world to me, and I think it means the world to you, too. Am I right?"
Liz pouted. "Not when he doesn't rest like I told him to." She fiddled with Red's fingers. "I know he bought me something, though." She brightened. "He wouldn't forget something so important."
"No." Red held his grin, for she seemed so very earnest in her beliefs. "Of course not."
Standing over the woman resting comfortingly now, Red smiled down at his wife, absently caressing her scalp. His free fingers inching into the lovely silk of her hair, curling about lush curls, sweeping the dark fluff from her temples from time to time.
She had complained about being cold at one point a while ago. He instantly found warmed blankets and even snuggled with her until that feeling subsided, even though the bed was totally uncomfortable, not really big enough to fit two.
"The tests should be back soon." He watched as boredom and lack of sleep gave way to the drugs. The woman fell asleep finally.
He took the opportunity to stretch his legs. He wanted to speak to the attending physician as well, once more. Dembe, ever vigilant, sat just outside the room, but Red knew there were guards stationed strategically about Elizabeth's area.
It was normal operational procedure instituted by Silas early on.
Still, Red didn't like to be too far away at any given time.
"Shouldn't be too much longer." He approached Dembe, who arose, putting his crossword puzzle aside. "Heard anything from Cooper?"
"I have not."
Hunter Gaines came round the corner, coffee in hand. "I haven't either." He quipped, handing two cups over to each individual man. "Who's Cooper?"
"We turned the bomber guy over to him." Red explained. "Just wondering about some loose ends."
"Joe alerted me to the situation here. I can sit with your wife if you guys want to..."
"I know, but..." Red shook off the offer.
"You feel better being close by." Gaines grinned. "Yeah, I kinda surmised as much, but the offer is a valid one if you need it." He glanced around. "Things seem to be winding down, though, right?"
"Knowing you guys were out here allowed me to be with Lizzy," Red said. "I appreciate that fact."
All conversation halted as the doctor appeared on the scene. He held up a staying hand, glancing into the closed door of Liz's room for a second before crossing to Red.
"Good news," Doctor Doyle waved some papers about airily, "we aren't seeing any signs of a concussion, blood tests were great..." he said, quietly read through the results, checking his facts absently. "These medical records are quite impressive." He lifted an impressed brow.
"In case you were wondering," Red noted the man's surprise, "Elizabeth is an FBI agent."
"Ah," Doyle relaxed, his relief apparent. "Can I assume she is part of the team who saved our collective asses today?" He motioned to the tv in the corner, silently playing scenes from the airport.
"She is." Red beamed proudly.
"Well, we all are grateful to such people, I assure you." Doyle nodded at nothing in particular. "Please pass that on to your wife, if you will." He turned to business. "I want you to be vigilant in keeping her wound clean," he insisted, "as I don't believe what caused the injury was a bullet."
"You don't?" It was Red's turn to be impressed.
"It's a possibility," Doyle granted, "but, to me? The piercing appeared too small... too clean."
Once he saw the growing stain on Lizzy's blouse, all Red cared about was stopping the blood loss. Now that he thought about it, he vaguely remembered Jim Anders mentioning shrapnel, but he didn't register it at the time.
"I've ordered another small dose of her pain medication to keep her stable and comfortable," Doyle held a person's eyes as he talked. "Considering the circumstances, I'm going to advise against traveling for at least twenty-four hours." He recommended, clasping his clipboard before him. "In fact, I strongly suggest you take the lady somewhere she might catch up on some well-deserved rest."
"I concur." Red agreed wholeheartedly. "That will be no problem, Doctor."
"I will begin her release forms, and have a nurse provide medications and wound care instructions," he smiled readily to put everyone at ease. "Should be about fifteen more minutes, and then you'll be free to leave."
"Thank you." Red said, shaking the doctor's hand.
"You take care now." Doyle smiled once more, then took his leave as a nurse arrived with the instructions and meds.
"Dembe?" Red turned his attention to the problems at hand. "We'll need lodgings for everyone."
"Oh." The man seemed stumped for a moment. "I don't believe I've ever had to manage such things before. I'm uncertain I'm up to the challenge."
Hunter held his amusement... just.
"Alright, cut me some slack." Red grumbled. "It's been an unusual day... asshole. Even for us."
Dembe rolled his eyes. "I will have the car pulled around. Unless you think I can't handle that as well."
"What is with him?" Red was glad to have some light teasing tossed his way, his mood lifting somewhat with Dembe's charm.
"It's hard to find good help these days." Hunter commiserated, calling out to a retreating Dembe Zuma who offered over a discrete, yet vulgar, finger to both men on his way to the nearest elevator.
"He's spending way too much time with Silas." Red decided. "Hey, can you hang for a minute or two while I get Lizzy situated?"
"He can't make simple hotel arrangements...can't get the car and now? He's left his duties as well?" Hunter shook a woeful head. "Sounds like to me you need another faithful sidekick."
"Dembe assures me there is no one stupid enough to take the job." Red quipped right back. He..waited.
"Well, don't look at me." Hunter feigned surprise. "I ain't stupid."
Red grinned, crossing to his wife's room.
Tucking the blankets around the lovely shoulders, Red gently shook the woman. "...Lizzy."
Blinking against the soft light, Liz slowly opened her eyes to find Red beside her. "Sorry... was I out long?" She brought the blankets closer, enjoying the added warmth. "What's the verdict?"
"You got in a nice nap," Red smiled, kissing her forehead, "and the prettiest blue eyes I've ever seen...and now you're being released."
"Who did you have to kill?" She hummed her approval. "I'm ready, Freddie."
"There's good news and bad news." Red said. "Which first?"
"Is Francis doing something embarrassing to the nurses?"
"Francis is back in D.C. baby." Red shrugged. "Honey, we're grounded for a while. Not only by the airport, but your doctor is advising we stay put for at least twenty-four hours."
"Is that a long time from now?" The drugs had her brain fuzzy. "That seems a really long time from now, Red."
"It's not so long but we don't have to stay here." He reminded. "Dembe is finding us a nice place. What do you think?"
"What would we do without Dembe." She sighed happily. "I can leave this place?"
"As soon as you can sit up and get dressed." He promised.
"And then we fly home." Liz struggled to sit. Red hurriedly helped out.
"No, baby...remember, we're staying in Texas for a day or two."
"We're in Texas?" Those blue eyes opened wide. "Why are we in Texas? Are we getting married again?"
"If you want." He humored, smiling lovingly down at the woman. "We're in Texas because of Anton Richter. But it's okay because we caught the bad guy and everything is fine again."
"We catch bad guys," Liz informed the nurse, who patiently waited to remove the IV needle.
"So I've heard." The woman was used to nonsensical statements, clearly, her tone saying how charming she thought the proceeding conversation was. "You're quite the hero...you people saved countless lives today."
"Red, can I have a Snicker bar?"
Red helped her put her sleeve on correctly, for Lizzy had turned the shirt inside out in her attempt to slip it on.
"Ah, I don't know, sweetheart. Wouldn't you prefer something more substantial?"
"There is nothing more substantial, Red." Her serious expression amused the man.
"Oh. I see." He held that amusement admirably. "Well, sure, why not, right?"
"And some Sprite?"
"And some Sprite." He helped her stand. The nurse wheeled the chair over, gently assisting.
"Dembe will want a hamburger." Liz sat obediently.
"We'll stop on the way." The man nodded his consent.
"And Joe likes barbeque, but not too spicy." Liz lifted a scolding finger. "He has intestinal issues...as you know." She whispered rather loudly, for all that. "If you catch my drift?"
"I remember." Joe was in D.C. as well, but what the hell.
"Did my plane blow up?" Liz's brow furrowed darkly. "Did that Commie bastard blow up my plane?"
"Nope." Red turned his face to hide his grin, for the nurse paused and gave Lizzy a quizzical look. "Our plane is safe at Houston Hobby."
"Isn't that in Texas?" Liz was confused.
Red pushed her to the door, which the nurse opened wide. "It sure is."
"Well, that's just fine." The woman huffed. "How are we going to get home now?"
"We'll worry about that tomorrow." He humored, starting the stroll down the long corridor.
"Just like Scarlett O'Hara." Liz sighed blissfully.
"Okay." The man's grin widened.
They reached the elevator, at which point Lizzy became very animated. "Oh look, Red... a vending machine with Snickers and a Sprite, right in our path. It's a sign."
Red obediently headed that way. He held his smile as the woman turned, her fingers waggling frantically. "Honey, they don't use coins so much anymore. I have a credit card here." He showed her.
"Well, whatever...B7, Red...B7." She pointed at the buttons to push.
"Uh huh," Red nodded, typing C3, for the correct selection.
"Then we have to go to that other machine with the drinks." Liz hurriedly reminded. "It's right there, on the end, past the coke thingy."
"I see it, baby." He handed over her Snicker bar, which she took, tearing the package open with her teeth because her arm hurt too much to use right now.
Biting into the chocolate, Liz sighed her bliss, closing her eyes to the wondrous moment. "Oh, God. I'm in heaven, Red. Heaven! This is the best day ever!"
The nurse shook her head, grinning, but patiently waited out the stop-over.
Red glanced down the way, noting Hunter Gaines' presence. The man waited for a sign to approach, Red sensed.
A cold, freshly opened Sprite was handed over to an anxiously waiting Elizabeth. Red motioned the man forward, stepping to meet the guy. "A problem?"
Red watched Lizzy struggle with her candy bar and drink, but she was managing.
"The press got wind that a downed agent had been admitted." He had leaned to confide. "This gentleman here is Scott Mains. Head of hospital security." Introductions were made.
Red shook the man's hand. "When it rains, it pours." He softened the problem with his attitude. "While my wife is usually a social butterfly and loves being the center of attention..." he motioned to the woman meticulously examining her Snicker bar, "I don't suppose there is a back way out of this place?"
"There is." Scott assured. "Your men," he gestured to Dembe and Hunter, "have a vehicle waiting in the designated spot."
Smiling at the men beside him, Red clapped Dembe on the shoulder. "I should have anticipated he'd say that, right?"
"Yes." Dembe didn't mince words.
Noticing the resigned look on Reddington's face, Hunter chortled quietly.
"Okay, then," Red, too, cut to the chase, "is there anything I need to do?"
"Get in the car, so we may leave." Dembe once again directed Red on how things should proceed. "You're holding up the parade."
"Is there a parade?" Liz had heard that remark. "I want to see." She sat up straighter in her transport chair. "Are there clowns? I hate clowns, Red."
"I know, baby." Red reassured. "No clowns."
She seemed relieved, going back to her Sprite.
"Dembe, I didn't know just how efficient you could be...or how bossy." Hunter had chuckled at Red's obvious dilemma. "Color me impressed."
"He is, on both accounts," Red cut his friend a look, "and a pain-in-the-ass know-it-all."
"I prefer the term, invaluable assistant." Dembe mentioned. "I would also like to mention, the abundance of hyphens in that description was totally unwarranted."
Sighing his resignation, Red hooked a thumb towards a nearby exit. "Lead on, oh great one." He suggested evenly. "I'm putty in your obviously capable hands."
"Yeah, you are." Dembe didn't seem particularly surprised by that statement in the least.
"You sound like a valley girl." Red grinned for the fact, going to collect his wife.
"Dembe, we're going to a parade. Do you want a hamburger?" The woman called out cheerfully.
Hunter's expression said, in his opinion, the day was looking up. "You people are a hoot. Did you know that?"
LIZZINGTON
"Okay, baby." Red stooped down to the woman's level. "I'm going to go out there and see if the coast is clear. Hunter will be right here. I won't be but a minute, promise."
"Red, can I have a Snicker bar?"
"Eh...sure." He piped up. "I'll find a vending machine. You want a Sprite?"
"No, I don't like Sprite." She demurred. "I could go for a vodka and orange juice?"
"I don't think so." He scowled slightly. "Okay, just wait here with Hunter and I'll go find you some goodies."
She smiled happily, biting into her Snicker bar.
Hunter stepped up, smiling down at Elizabeth. "Do you remember me, Elizabeth?"
"Are you in the parade?"
The man chuckled lowly. "Yeah, I'm the guy on the white horse."
"I like white horses." The woman searched aimlessly for her Sprite. "Have you seen my vodka and orange juice? I just had it!"
Red cast the man an apologetic smile.
"No, but I have a Sprite if you want it." Hunter pulled the bottle out of the covers at her side.
"Oh, thank you. I love Sprite!"
"On that note." Red's tongue went to the corner of his mouth, but he went about his way, for Dembe was holding the door open...still. "Be right back, angel."
Liz frowned after Red's departure. "He better not go to the parade without me."
"He wouldn't think of it." Hunter assured, then his smile faded, his hand lifting hastily.
"Stop right there." His hand went to his weapon, which he tugged free of its hostler inside his jacket. The gun was brought forth, aimed and cocked in less than a millisecond.
Ressler pulled up his steps, his scowl deepening. "I'm a Federal Agent. Lower that weapon!" His own hand was lifted, motioning accordingly.
Hunter's stance did not waver. The weapon still trained accurately.
"She's my partner."
Liz sipped her Sprite absently. "Yeah, not anymore, fella." She grumbled. "You're a butthead."
Hunter tried to keep a straight face. "You want to speak to this, gentleman, Mrs. Reddington?"
"You can call me Lizzy." The woman hit Hunter's leg affectionately. "I loved you in the Lone Ranger when I was a kid."
"Uh hum." Hunter slowly lowered his weapon, never once having taken his eyes off...
"I could arrest your ass." Ressler snapped his pique, seeing the problem was defusing itself finally. "Do you have a permit for that gun?"
"Why don't you come find out for yourself." Hunter asked quietly.
"No, no...no." Liz held up a staying hand. "You are both on the side of the law. This is no way for the Lone Ranger to act. Say...where's your mask?"
"I'll just wait over here, ma'am." Hunter's eyes softened. "Just let me know if I'm needed."
"I won't tell anyone I saw your face. Promise." Liz promised.
"Thank you." Hunter nodded minutely. "I would appreciate that."
This has been a shitty day all around for Agent Donald Ressler. First having to sit through Reddington fawning over Liz the whole time the operation was going down...then having to stomach being pushed aside like he was nothing at the hospital because he was not family.
He had been Liz's family long before Reddington inserted himself into the equation.
Being close to the bomb's explosion had only been the icing on the fucking cake. He wasn't hurt, not really, but his mood was not the best right now.
He realized Liz's attitude stemmed from drugs, but that didn't help either. "I just wanted to check on how you're doing." Ressler spoke to the woman directly. "What's with the attitude?"
"I don't have an attitude." Liz took exception. "You have an attitude toward my husband, and I don't like it, one little bit."
Hunter shifted his eyes, keeping his professional demeanor, but he thought Liz's response damned amusing. He instinctively disliked this new prick on sight. He hated men who threw their authority around, even if they had it to throw.
"We don't need your approval." Liz knew for certain. "If my new status bothers you that much, let Cooper know and I'm sure we can be assigned different working arrangements."
Ressler was taken aback, not expecting this new, stronger response from Liz. She had always been the first to try diplomacy with any situation, especially in her working environment. "What's gotten into you? Are you high? What the hell did those doctors give you?"
"Ah," Liz waved the guy off irritably, "so's your mama."
Hunter lowered his head quickly, hiding his erupting grin.
"Liz, this isn't like you. I'm worried about you." Ressler stepped closer, lowering his voice. "You're not yourself. Can't you see how being with Reddington has changed you? And not for the better, if you want the truth."
"In your world, you mean?" Liz called the guy on his politics. "Because where I'm standing..." she motioned to her sitting position in the transport chair, "I'm doing just fine."
"Listen." Ressler tried reason where none existed, he knew. "This probably isn't the time to get into it."
"Oh, I want to get into it." Liz differed. "Where do you get off acting like you're superior in any way, shape, or form to my husband?"
"Your...husband," the word obviously grated on the man, "is a known criminal wanted by the FBI. I don't think that's really something a person can take pride in."
"I do take pride in Red." Liz snapped. "He's a good, decent man. He wouldn't be judging your ass if the situation were reversed. You don't even know him. How dare you presume to have any opinion what-so-ever about...my husband!"
"You're being irrational." Ressler dismissed the tirade. "It's the drugs. You can't help it, I know."
Hunter stood quietly by, awaiting any clue that the woman might conceivably wish him to beat the fuck out of her antagonist. So far, she was holding her own, but the man didn't think Reddington would appreciate anyone upsetting her at this stage of the game.
"...I know you can be impulsive. Today was a prime example," Ressler said, holding his hands out to placate the woman's rising anger, "but to actually marry Reddington? That's crazy, even for you." He was relatively certain. "What the hell were you thinking?"
"I was thinking...he has a really nice dick, and I hoped beyond hope he would use it for good in the world." Liz smiled sweetly over. "Which he has done. Thank God. And I'm all the better for it."
Licking his lips, Hunter bit them to keep his features perfectly composed. But dammit, that was funny as hell in his world.
Ressler's face reddened with anger and distress. "You're saying things you don't mean, dammit."
"Oh, I mean them." Liz disagreed vehemently. "First of all, my personal life is just that... personal." She shifted into a more assertive stance. "Secondly, if I wanted your opinion, which I don't, I would have asked for it... which I didn't."
"Yeah, well, maybe you should have." Ressler stated that opinion. "In fact, you should stop thinking for yourself altogether. That's where your problems stem from."
"Why you little piss-ant." Liz was suddenly livid. "If I had my weapon, I'd put it up your tight ass and pull the trigger."
Ressler straightened, his face registering annoyance and ire.
"Just who do you think you are speaking to me in that manner?" Liz demanded to know.
"...I'm your friend." The man tried reason and logic. "You just aren't well enough right now to realize it."
"Wow." The woman's look was an incredulous one. "You're not my friend. I don't think you ever were...not ever." She suddenly realized.
"Liz..." Ressler's lips tightened. "Don't say that." He sighed wearily. "I'm just trying to give you some good advice here. If you would only liste–"
"This may come as a total shock to you and your colossal ego." She continued undauntedly. "But you're the last person I'd listen to when it comes to...well, anything, actually."
The agent lowered his head, striving for some measure of control over a rapidly deteriorating situation.
"I can take care of myself." Liz lifted her head. "I'm not the same person I was even a month ago and I'm proud of myself for the fact."
Hunter was proud of the woman as well. He couldn't wait to share this encounter with Reddington.
"A lot of that growth I attribute to my husband, who has stood by me through some of the most horrible times a person can image." Liz teared up. "He's protected me, nurtured my soul and loved me like no other man in my entire existence, and continues to do so to this very day."
She stopped for a breath. "Which is more than I can say for that sorry excuse for a man I first married who tore me down at every turn, lied to me continuously...abused and mistreated my ass!"
Ressler lifted a placating hand. "Don't get hysterical...calm down."
"Don't you tell me to calm the hell down." Liz ranted. "And don't you ever malign my husband again to my face because if you do..." She started to rise, but Hunter was there instantly, gently preventing the unwise move.
"Alright, get the hell away from my charge or I will surely put you away." He turned his growing wrath on the Federal Agent. "You're upsetting her and that is just not going to continue...not on my watch."
Ressler shook his head. "It's okay, Liz. I'll...talk to you later when you're better."
"No, you won't." She berated. "Lose my number. Don't call me. Don't text me. And if we happen to meet at work? Ignore the hell out of me cause that's what I'll be doing with you from this moment on."
Ressler drew in a calming breath. He thought better of any more replies. "I didn't mean to upset you."
"Yeah, well...you did." Liz snapped. "A perfect ending to a really shitty day! Thanks a bunch, friend."
Hunter glanced around for the woman was raising her voice quite effectively, but what the hell, it was an isolated spot. No one was about to really hear.
Ressler took his leave, but something clicked inside his brain. He slowly halted his steps quite a distance down the corridor, turning back, his look one of disbelief.
"Jesus," Ressler disgusted, the reality hitting him hard, "it was you I heard in Montana, wasn't it."
"What if it was?" Liz wanted to know. "I'm free and over twenty-one."
"God..." Donald scoffed, "don't you have any self-respect."
"This coming from a man who stood outside a car window eavesdropping like the pervert he is?" Liz made mention. "Did it sound like I was having a great time?" She asked, assuming a plaintive tone. "Because I was! Best fucking time of my life...well, one of them. I've had quite a few since that time."
"What the hell has he done to you!" The change in the woman astounded Ressler.
"I'm sorry if my love life distresses your puritanical outlook on matters." Liz grimaced apologetically. "Maybe you should try taking the rod out of your ass and growing the hell up!"
"I think she's just being sarcastic at this point." Hunter raised to his full height, for he had been hovering protectively about the woman for a spell now. "Why don't you take this opportunity to make a discrete exit...agent."
"I can't wait to go," Ressler stated quietly. "This turns my stomach."
"Hell, seeing baby shit will do that to your ass, I'm thinking, so I'm not too upset here." Liz smirked sarcastically. "Get me the hell away from him, Lone Ranger Guy, before I do something very unladylike."
Hunter took charge of the transport vehicle, wheeling the woman to the elevator. They entered with a shell-shocked nurse in tow. The woman hit the button which would take them to the basement floor.
Liz allowed her head to drop into her hands. She pushed hard on her lids, the ache behind them starting to hurt.
"You did just fine, Mrs. Reddington." Hunter smiled down at the woman. "Your husband will be very proud of how you handled that situation."
She glanced back. "Let's not tell him."
Hunter hesitated. "I don't think that's the way to go, Ma'am."
"I think...it is." Liz's eyes pleaded.
"If he doesn't ask..." Hunter compressed his lips. "But if he does..." He warned with a look.
"He won't ask." Liz relaxed back into the confines of the chair. "And I'm fine." She lifted her head, forcing a smile. She stared straight ahead at the closed elevator doors. "I'm just fine."
LIZZINGTON
"Sweetheart, I told you I'd come for you." Seeing Hunter approach with his passenger, Red hurried over.
"I couldn't stand being up there one more second." Liz told the truth. "Can we go now?"
Sensing something amiss, Red gave Hunter a quizzical glance. His suspicions increased when the guard hesitated, then waved away any concern.
Watching Lizzy slump tiredly in her chair, Red sighed, relenting for now. "Sure, baby." He smiled, leaning to kiss her gently. "I missed you."
Liz smiled. "Is Samar all safe and secure?"
"She's in the first car up there." Red motioned with his head. "Says it's a better vantage spot to take out any pesky reporter types that get too nosy." He teased to lighten her mood.
"Stop it." Samar's lovely head came into view. "I wouldn't use my credentials for something so unethical." She scolded. "Besides, a good right hook would do it just as well."
Liz carefully transferred to the SUV, her steps a little unsteady. "It's like ice skating for the first time."
"I've got you." Red's steady hand guided and supported.
Liz looked at the man, her blue eyes misting. "I know that."
Chalking it up to the meds, Red smiled warmly. "Everything okay?"
"Everything is just...lovely." Liz realized. "I love you, Red."
"Do you?" His smile was tender. "Can't hear that enough. Right back at you, baby."
She sat back, leaning her head on the soft leather seat. "I hope wherever we're going, they have room service. And a nice hot bath..." she murmured softly. "And no bombs about to go off."
"I can guarantee it." Red promised. He climbed inside with his wife, and Dembe pulled away from the curb.
The quiet of the car soothed Liz's nerves. She closed her eyes, savoring.
"Well, people...it's been quite an exciting day. I think you will all agree." Red broke the silence.
"McSha is on his way to Chicago." Dembe informed Red, his attention for the road they drove. Traffic was light, however, it being almost dusk. "I haven't heard anything on Richter as yet."
"You got me off that babysitting duty, how?" Samar was impressed. "I won't even ask. I'm just grateful."
"You've been traumatized enough for one day." Red quipped. "Being cooped up with Ressler for the entire flight back to D.C., alone?" He grimaced. "No woman deserves that type of punishment."
"He's been difficult of late." Samar lifted her lovely brows, watching the passing scenery outside the dark windows. "I don't want to lump myself in with you ruffians, mind you," she teased her companions, "but an invitation to a five-star hotel? Not stupid enough to turn that down."
Red grinned, checking on a peacefully sleeping wife. He put his jacket over her, for the air-conditioning in the vehicle was getting chilly.
The man could see the turn-off for the hotel just up ahead. "What say, this time, Dembe, we use the valet service."
"We never use the valet service." Dembe reminded stoically.
"Well, today, we've earned the right to pull right up to the front entrance." Red decided.
"You're damned right you have." Samar's brows lifted again. "And I'll put any one straight that doesn't think so."
"That takes on an entirely new connotation when stated by a former Mossad agent. Don't you agree, Dembe?"
"I cannot say, as Silas would surely take such a statement out of context."
"Hey." Samar scolded slightly. "I'm still a free agent, as far as I know." She turned, her expression a wry one. "What are these constant referrals to your head of security and myself?"
Red wisely shut the hell up.
"I mean." The woman fished openly. "...Has Silas said something to you people that he has not to me?"
"We are not privileged to have such insight." Dembe stated emphatically. "All we know, when he is in your company, we don't wish to hurl him off the nearest high building as in the past."
"Or push him down the stairs." Red nodded sagely.
"Or blow him up with a couple of blocks of C-4." Dembe added thoughtfully.
"We're just saying, in our own inimitable way...he seems happier when he's in your company." Red rephrased tactfully.
The woman shifted, a soft smile lighting her face. "Well, I'm just saying, too." She defended her stance.
"A woman dislikes being taken for granted." Red stated quietly. "Which is not something we do around here, just in case you're wondering."
"I'm beginning to see how your operation works." The woman nodded sedately. "It is quite impressive to a new-comer, let me confide."
"Glad to hear it." Red was.
Pulling in under the porte-cochere, Dembe slowed to a stop as Red gently jostled Lizzy awake.
"Well, if you ever need a good word put in...or a decent alibi?" Samar glanced at the approaching valet. "I'm the person to see."
"...Glad to hear it." Red repeated, chuckling his mirth, waiting patiently for his wife to stir. The blue eyes opened sleepily. "We're here, sweetheart."
Dembe opened the door, waiting for the two to emerge.
"...Hell?" Liz felt the hot air hit her full force.
Red's chuckle strengthened. "Still in Texas." He grinned, helping her out of the SUV. "Come on," he hoisted her upwards, "we'll check in and get you some food, then you'll feel better."
"I feel fine now," she countered before peering at him through squinted eyes. "Don't I?"
With little food on her stomach, that shot had to be doing wonders. "I'd imagine you're feeling pretty relaxed right about now," Red granted, "but let's not push our luck."
The woman stood, glancing about the setting sun. "It's pretty here."
"Yeah." Red was more interested in the hotel's amenities. "Dembe, how's our supplies in the, taking care of wounds, department? Anything available in there, do you think?"
"I'll check it out." The man assured.
"Come on, sweetheart." Red ushered the woman with slow, careful steps. "You want me to carry you?"
"No." She pouted. "I can walk." She thought she was doing okay. "I can walk, can't I?" She sounded suddenly apprehensive.
"You're doing just fine." Samar took the other side. "You're just a little groggy. We'll make it."
"I'll check in." Dembe motioned to a nearby seating area.
Red sat his charge in a plush seat. "There ya go." He smiled across at Lizzy's flushed face, putting some hair back from her temple. "We'll go ahead as soon as Dembe gets the key-cards."
His brow furrowed. "Then I'm going to have to look at your injury."
"Are we going to play doctor?" Liz perked up.
Red's eyes caught an amused Samar Navabi's.
"Ah, that's not..." He halted, for Lizzy looked so hopeful. "You have an actual injury, Lizzy, remember?" He tried for damage control. "I have to check it. The doctor said so, right?"
"You're not the doctor?" Liz was sad.
Red checked again with Samar, who was pretending to be interested in the hotel's decor, and trying really hard to hide her amusement for his growing predicament. "... Later, baby." He leaned, whispering sotto voce. "You be a good little patient and do as your doctor advises, yeah?"
Liz's face brightened. "Oh." She smiled sweetly at him. "I can do that."
"I know you can." His look was just for her.
Dembe arrived, handing out cards and room numbers, well...one. "We have the entire top floor."
"Are you serious?" Samar looked at the card, her lovely eyes wide with subdued excitement.
"Get used to it." Hunter Gaines accepted his key with a modicum of graciousness. "These people travel in style."
"We do our best." Red lifted a casual hand. "You have met?" He asked the rhetorical question.
Grinning, Hunter inclined his head politely. "You're Silas' girl, right?"
Biting back a smile for the unexpected flush on Samar's cheeks, Red cleared his throat. "If he pulls his head out of his ass..." He muttered his growing belief, then moved on.
"That is up for debate." Samar's brow furrowed, but only slightly. "I haven't been asked."
"Didn't think Silas was that big an idiot." It was Hunter's turn to scowl.
"I want to thank you, again, for stepping into his shoes for this occasion." Red extended his hand. "I'll rest easier knowing Lizzy is in capable hands should I have to step away for any length of time."
"No way I would bail on this one." Hunter assured. "Silas can beat my ass." He held up a staying hand. "Don't tell him I said that. But more than that, I owe the big goon."
"I know you have duties here at Mark's and at home, so..." Red did.
"It's all good," Hunter assured. "My wife is away at her parents a couple days," he said. "I won't be missed."
"I'm sorry." Samar was lost. "Just how big is this place we're going?" She had counted quite a few people, after all...to share one apartment.
Red looked at Dembe.
"It is a penthouse. There is plenty of room, but if you would like your own–"
"Oh, no, I didn't mean..." the woman flustered prettily. "Not at all."
"We only need four of the six bedrooms, as Daniel is going to his own place for the night." Red said. "Wanted to check in on a few things while he was in town, maybe set it up for Emma."
"He has an apartment in Houston?" Samar asked. She knew the prices down here, for in the beginning of her move to D.C...she also had a choice to relocate to the Gulf of Mexico.
"He has a penthouse in Houston." Red corrected. "Actually, he has a couple of dwellings in the Texas area."
"He has a couple of dwellings here." Samar repeated the startling news to an equally impressed Hunter Gaines.
"I'm still looking for a place with a backyard for the kid." He sighed lightly, then winked. "Maybe one day, I too, shall climb the proverbial corporate ladder."
"Your condos weren't supplied a backyard?" Red questioned. "Mark was to ensure–"
Laughing, Hunter lifted a calming hand. "I was jesting." He smiled. "You have to understand, it's odd for me," he motioned to their surroundings, "to not look where I'm walking, so I'm not stumbling over toys with every step I take."
"Ah," Red nodded his understanding. "I remember those days."
"I'm on the top rung in my line of endeavor." Samar chuckled. "Next stop...bargain basement for me."
"I hear ya, sister." Gaines followed Red's lead, all fitting into the spacious elevator after a fashion.
Wrapping his arm about Lizzy's waist, Red steered the woman the needed direction, with Hunter closing up the rear.
"I assure you, Samar," Red was ever the gracious host, "we won't be stepping on one another's toes."
LIZZINGTON
Stepping into the suite, Liz's face fell. "Oh, no. Is the room flooded?"
"It's a pool, sweetheart." Red explained patiently, guiding her towards a nearby couch. "It's an indoor one. Nice, hum?"
Sitting back, Liz closed her eyes before lifting her feet up on the ottoman. "That's an engineering improbab... improve, no..." she tried again. "It just can't happen." She settled. "That much water would fall through the floor to the next apartment."
Red glanced at the pool. "Well, I'm glad we didn't book that floor then." He humored her.
"Is there anything to drink?" Liz whined, cracking one eye open. "I sure could go for a vodka and tonic."
"First of all, you don't like that drink," Red reminded. "And second? You have pain meds in you, baby. How about some tomato juice?"
Liz's nose crinkled. "Will it have vodka..." she questioned, then brightened, "and maybe some celery? I like celery... I think? It could be asparagus, either one will do." She said brightly. "Oh! Can I have a little umbrella, too!"
"How about a Sprite." Hunter Gaines pulled his attention from the fabulous view of downtown Houston.
"Oh, I love Sprite." The woman perked up.
"No sweat." Hunter smiled, sharing a glance with Red, who crossed to the mini-bar.
"You'll start to get used to it," Hunter grinned at the look of astonishment on Samar's lovely face as she too took in her surroundings. "It's how the other half lives, I guess."
"I came from a small village in the mountains." Samar confided, glancing about at all the opulence. "I've traveled the world, in reality, but not in company like this."
"Same here." Hunter nodded. "Oh, I haven't traveled the world, but the company I've kept sure couldn't afford anything like these amenities."
"I should have anticipated this," Samar mumbled to herself. "The chandeliers and marble floors in the lobby should have given it away, hum?"
"Places like this usually ask me to go to the back service entrance." Hunter quipped.
"The roles I've had to play?" Samar sighed heavily. "Let's just say, such women, or how they perceived me to be, are not exactly welcomed in the better establishments of any city I happened to be in."
Hunter looked at the woman in a new light. "...It must be harder for a female." He realized. "In your line of work...or former line."
"One gets used to it." She lied. For Samar never did. She accomplished the mission, then sat in a shower for hours afterwards wondering how her life would have fared had she never left that small village. "They assured me it was important work."
Hunter lowered his head, wondering at such men or their purpose in life.
"These rooms seem to go on forever." Samar strolled slowly through the corridors and floor space.
Off to their right sat a fully stocked bar, dining room and a kitchenette that made Samar's kitchen seem minuscule in comparison. To their left, various seating areas allowed for an ease between business to casual entertainment, if one could call the seamlessly divided space casual in any sense of the word.
Desperately trying not to gawk, Samar and Hunter edged deeper into their surroundings, taking in the size of the enormous television screen occupying an entire wall to their left. Numerous arrays of electronic equipment provided for a guest's enjoyment beckoned.
Running his fingers along the felt of the exquisite pool table, Hunter moved further into the room, glancing at the fireplace, which separated two enormous sections. He could see the dining room through the opened granite portal.
"Oh my god." She pointed. "Would you look at this."
"There's a pool inside the infinity pool." Samar was aghast, having just noticed.
"I think that's actually the hot tub," Hunter advised gently. "I was so hoping I wouldn't have to share with the peasants. How about you?" He cast a playful glance at the others in the sitting area.
"Well, I feel like an idiot. Who wouldn't know that's a hot tub." Samar felt like an idiot.
Hunter scolded. "Yeah," he teased her, for it was clear the lapse had actually bothered the woman, "don't be gauche. It's inset down that far because it's obviously for those late-night orgy sessions with one's significant other. Who wants someone peeking over the divider structure at such a time? I mean, really, right?"
"We're reverse snobs." Samar grinned over at her companion, only just realizing the fact.
"It's the only thing I can think to be when I feel so...out of place." Hunter admitted. "Still, it's cool. It's beyond cool." He whistled lowly. "I would give anything to share this with my wife... just for one night."
Samar smiled softly. "It is lovely, isn't it."
Glancing down at a table in passing, she lifted a booklet which listed the amenities available to them.
"Hunter, there's a fitness room there," Red had watched the two exploring, having made Lizzy more comfortable, "just beyond those doors, if you need to unwind."
After living with Dembe and Silas on and off through the years, Red knew they often worked out before retiring for the evening to burn off excess energy.
"It's twenty-two thousand square feet?" Samar lifted the information booklet, aghast. "My apartment is only a thousand square feet on a good day."
"You people need to remember where you are," Red shrugged, handing Lizzy a bottle of water. "When Texas says, they do everything big? They mean it, apparently."
"I was hoping more along the lines of something that'll burn out the infection," Liz murmured her discontent, but took the water regardless, "like... tequila or scotch."
"You were given antibiotics," Red quietly assured, "you don't have to worry about an infection."
"If you load me up with liquor, we really won't have to worry about it." Liz pointed out. "Think of it as added protection."
Biting back a smile, Red sent her a behave look. "Maybe at dinner, hum."
"Please tell me you didn't do this because we're here." Samar gestured between herself and the others, but mainly herself. "I'm perfectly fine getting a room at the Motel 6, for heaven's sake."
"Dembe and I have made use of many a motor court in our day." Red grinned. "Normally, I would agree with you," he agreed. "Since I've acquired the old ball and chain." He teased a sulking Lizzy. "I have to keep up appearances. She'll leave my ass if she thinks my portfolio is dwindling."
"I'll leave your ass if you don't find me something substantial to drink." Liz pouted, grimacing distastefully at her water bottle.
"I'll get you some orange juice." Red lifted a decisive finger, arising.
Samar slowly nodded. "You're spoiling her...this has nothing to do with us." She thought she understood."
"Completely rotten, I'm told." Red didn't deny the fact. "By those in the know."
"Hey!" Liz objected. "I'm shot here. And it's more than a flesh wound, like Francis gets. I deserve some pampering."
"You're not shot, baby." Red opened the orange juice, handing it over. "But you are one hundred percent correct. You deserve some pampering."
"...Just don't tell Silas." Liz whispered, but her happy face returned, and she drank her juice thirstily. "This tastes good."
"As long as we're not intruding." Samar relaxed somewhat. "I'm part Jewish. It's the guilt." She quipped.
"Agent Navabi." Dembe caught the woman's attention, handing her a folder made of the richest weave paper she ever felt.
"Dembe," Samar smiled, "I feel like I've known you forever...please call me, Samar." She ran her fingers over the luxurious sheets absently. "What's this?"
"I thought, after today," Red motioned, "room service might be in order." He suggested. "Unless you'd rather explore the hotel and neighborhood?"
"My exploring days are few and far between," Hunter hopped to, glancing down at the lavish menu. "I'm hungry."
He and Samar put their heads together and soon came up with their orders.
"If you would like to freshen up," Red motioned upward, "your rooms are upstairs." He played the perfect host. "Room service should arrive in half an hour. Until then, please make yourselves at home... relax. Have an orgy or two, if you're in the mood." He shifted Gaines a playful glance.
"We were just being mean-spirited. We lower types do that from time to time." Hunter hadn't known their conversation traveled. "We're taking out our envy on you, the guy with all the big bucks."
"There's an upstairs?" The news floored Samar. "Don't include me in with your unsavory group." She turned that cute nose up to Hunter. "I love it here. I'm never leaving."
Red shook a woeful head. "How easily some can be bought."
"Damned straight." Samar had no problem with the statement. "I'm going to put my feet into that pool."
"Put your entire body." Red suggested. "Look in the drawers of your chest. There will be swimming attire."
"Get out!" The woman's mouth opened. "Are you kidding me? They even do that?"
"They do that." Red assured.
"How do they know her size?" Hunter was intrigued.
Dembe sighed lightly. "Philistine." He accused. "They supply all sizes and several styles. For the price you pay here? They should throw in some pool floaters."
"...Floaties." Red corrected indulgently. "Floaties..."
"That is what I said." Dembe corrected sardonically.
"No, no, it isn't." Red begged to differ.
"Floaters are on a whole other level." Hunter quipped. "Dembe, if you'll remember your Jersey days." He teased.
Dembe understood, finally, the difference. "Ah, right, yes."
Hunter narrowed his eyes suspiciously at that one, then considered the source... and moved on.
Taking the juice, Red tugged on his wife's hands. "Come on, Sleeping Beauty." Liz was nodding off again. "Let's get you down for a spell, hum?"
"Down where?" She asked groggily.
"If you two can amuse yourselves?" Red guided the woman gently about furniture and trappings. "She's going to take a nap."