Seeing as it was Thunderbirds day yesterday I thought I better get on and release the next chapter!

Chapter 6

Gordon meandered his way out the lower doors of the villa. The cool morning air caressed the nape of his neck, sending a pleasant chill through him. He had a towel stiffly slung over his shoulder and a light robe loose around him he padded to the pools edge. Dropping the fluffy towel on a nearby lounger he debated about best method of entry.

Usually, he's just dive right in the deep end, but he had a feeling that might kill him this morning. Most people probably wouldn't even consider a swim after nearly drowning in scree and torrential rain the day before, but Gordon could already feel himself seizing up. Gentle exercise was key. Making up his mind, he decided actually lowering himself in down the steps was probably the way that would strain him the least. Getting out might be fun but that was a later problem.

A slight hiss emitted from his lips as his bad arm took the strain of his weight, however as soon as he was in the water it lessened. The coolness of the water flowed over him, eliciting a sharp intake of breath at the coldness invading his body. He flipped onto his back and pushed off in an adapted backstroke. His ankle smarted as he forced it to flick up and down in the water, but it wasn't as bad as he thought it would be. Having iced it on and off for most of the evening, it seemed to be recovering quickly.

He carried on in this manner for over twenty minutes. He loved this time of day; it was almost like he had the house to himself. The isle held a unique stillness at this hour as the sky went from a dusky pink to a bright cerise, then a brilliant sky blue. Today as Gordon looked up, he couldn't see a single cloud. He lay still for a moment, treading water as he gazed upwards. The water gently lapped at his face as he wafted across the pool. Slight dread started to creep in, for he knew this little snatch in time would carry on marching shortly, lost for another day. Trying to banish his impending depression, he closed his eyes and gravitated where the current took him.

A short time later he reluctantly stirred himself and swam back towards the edge where the pool was at its shallowest. He managed to gently pull himself up backwards and spin his legs around before gingerly pushing up onto all fours, keeping the weight off his bad ankle. His body protested but he ignored it as he collected his towel. Scrubbing at his hair vigorously he turned and nearly dropped his towel in surprise.

Scott was hovering, mug in hand and with a plate of biscuits by the doors to the villa. He approached with purpose; his brow etched in concern. Gordon hastily shrugged on his robe, belting it to hide the nasty looking red bruise that was continuing to bloom on his side.

"What are you doing here?" Gordon scorned.

"Didn't notice the pool was a tad choppy this morning?" Scott walked over to the patio table and set the mug and biscuits down. "I came to speak to you. Rose thinks I was out of order with you yesterday and on reflection I was rude and for that I apologise." He hesitated over the last word. Scott Tracy didn't apologise for much; you could see how much it cost him by the expression on his face.

"Most people don't need a wife to tell them that they were a jerk and if you're waiting for me to say I'm sorry too - you can do one." Gordon gingerly lowered himself into the seat opposite.

Scott gently pushed the coffee across the table as a peace offering. He'd made it just how Gordon liked it with one shot of expresso.

"I know, I know - and no I'm not looking for an apology. I'm sorry I truly am. I wouldn't travel halfway around the world if I wasn't contrite. I had a exceptionally complex rescue on top of some really bad news, and I didn't handle it well. So, when it blew up between you and Alan it was just another problem I didn't need." Scott looked across to Gordon, the sincerity visible in his eyes. "I never meant to offend you or Tin-Tin. I guess, well hell! It's a bit of a shock. None of us saw this coming."

Gordon sat back. Now he looked at him closely Scott did appear to be on edge. His leg was twitching under the table and there were dark circles under his eyes. He did seem to be on the lean side too, his cashmere sweater looser then before across his chest. At this point Scott went to his breast pocket and pulled out his packet of cigarettes. He went to draw one only to pause and stuff it back into the packet in annoyance, it crumpled under the pressure as Scott swore.

"Trying to quit?"

"Hmm? Oh yeah, I should be, but you know, it's harder than you think. I've tried several times over the years, but I have to kick the habit this time. Anyway, am I forgiven?"

"I guess so, but seriously it isn't some casual fling. I love her Scott."

"Okay…...well are you two coming back with me then?"

"Er no, I told dad no because I was pissed at you. We're going to Malaysia."

Scott looked relieved. Which again was very odd. He'd been asking everyone over to stay since he relocated.

"Scott what's wrong?" Scott's leg was still tapping a beat.

"Huh? What makes you say something's wrong?"

"You're clearly rankled and its not like you."

Scott sighed. "I told Rose this wasn't a good idea, but I suspect this was what she wanted all along." He hunched over the table, head in his hands.

Gordon's ire faded at the hunched line of his brother's shoulders. Something was up and he was on the cusp of revealing it.

"What did she want Scott?"

He glanced up at Gordon. "For me to confide in someone. This isn't easy, I mean I'm still trying to process it." He sat back and ran a hand through his hair, taking a shaky breath. "So, I found out I'm essentially infertile." He adverted his gaze; a melancholy rawness haunted his blue eyes.

"Infertile! Well, what do the doctors say, is there anything they can do?" Gordon was stunned. He had so many questions like how long had poor Scott and Rose been living with this knowledge? He had no idea his brother wanted children and now he couldn't. Gordon felt awful for him.

"So, they don't know why but my semen count is pretty much non-existent, its likely my age doesn't but me in good stead either. I've been told all I can really do is try to quit smoking and drinking. Worst case scenario we can still try IVF but the whole point of me getting tested was because I wanted to spare Rose from being poked and prodded first. You know what she's like with anything medical, IVF isn't an option for her although she's started therapy in an attempt to combat her phobias because she wants to try for both our sakes….. I honestly didn't think there would be anything wrong with me."

Gordon's problems suddenly seemed pretty insignificant in comparison, no wonder he was so out of order yesterday. "Gee, I'm so sorry Scott that can't have been easy to find out."

"You can say that again, I guess I'm just not myself right now." He stared out listlessly towards the ocean.

"Honestly don't worry about it, you've said your sorry. I forgive you."

"I should say sorry to Tin too."

"Its ok, she'd already given you a free pass."

Scott smiled, "She's a gem really."

"She is." Gordon drained the last of his coffee. "Well, whatever you decide, if you need someone to vent to or want someone to be there for you then just call me, ok?"

"Thanks buddy I will." Scott seemed to become more settled. "So, you're really off to Malaysia?"

"If dad says yes, he and Kyrano were discussing it last night. It was Tin's idea and to be honest. I was annoyed that we have to go away when I'm not the one acting out, but to be honest It's a bit oppressive here of late. We're hoping it will give Alan the space he needs. Contrary to popular belief I don't want to go out of my way to ruin his life, it's why Tin-Tin and I didn't say anything initially because we wanted to give him time to get used to the separation."

"So, it is serious between you guys?"

Gordon pulled a face. "Of course it is! We're not messing around to wind people up. It's been going on longer than you know."

"I should have known, you're good at keeping secrets." Scott was referring to his brother's previous WASP career. "Well, I sure hope dad supports you, but you can't be angry at Alan Gordon. Imagine if you were in his shoes."

"I wouldn't be an ass about it."

Scott stared at him long enough for Gordon to throw his hands up in the air. "Okay okay, I mean I might get my own back with a prank or two, but I wouldn't leave him to die."

"I'm sure that wasn't his intention. He's not thinking straight." Seeing the flit of pain pass Scott's features Gordon decided not to retort.

"Come on let's go back to the house. I need to get changed anyway." Gordon stood awkwardly.

Scott also stood before falling in tandem next to Gordon. "Say Gordon, what we discussed earlier; I'd rather not tell anyone else right now."

Gordon turned to face him. "It's alright, I won't tell a soul. I really hope that the changes your making will be enough. Tell Rose I hope it works out for both of you and thank her for telling you the truth about being an ass."

Scott smirked, despite the pain he felt. "Oh, she was very clear on that front, and she called me something worse than an ass."

"Atta Girl." Gordon replied eliciting a bark of laughter from Scott. Gordon was pleased to have cheered him however brief.

"Ah there you are. Gordon a word." Jeff beckoned him over to his desk; the lounge was still empty. Gordon sighed, so much for getting dressed. It might work to his advantage though. He loosened his robe, so it half fell open exposing his torso where the red welts were starting to darken.

"Do you want me to stay?" Scott murmured looking across at their father.

"Nah it's alright, go make yourself comfortable but if you hear shouting come back because I can't be held accountable."

Scott gave him a friendly clap on the shoulder before heading to sit down on the balcony.

Jeff raised his head as Gordon approached, his gaze falling on the darkening bruises. He frowned in concern. "Take a seat son." Gordon complied, easing himself into the nearby chair.

Jeff cleared his throat. "Kyrano and I have had a lengthy conversation, and we have agreed that Malaysia wouldn't be a bad idea. The house hasn't been inhabited for some time and there are some repairs that need to be completed. Having you and Tin Tin there to oversee them would put Kyrano's mind at ease but I do have some stipulations."

"Like?"

"You will only be staying for three weeks until Alan's next shift on Five. When John returns, you will return."

"Okay, makes sense."

"And you two will be on your own, I need you to be sensible. We have enough problems without….. well." Jeff looked at his hands folded on the desk. "I need you and Tin Tin to take precautions, its not going to go down well if a bab"

Gordon held up a hand with a choking gesture of disgust. "Dad I'm not sixteen!"

Jeff coughed awkwardly "Right…. well, it had to be said. You can make your plans immediately."

"Great. Thank you." Gordon rose, better to leave now before this got anymore awkward or his father changed his mind.

"Oh, and Gordon?"

Gordon winced, turning back "Yes?"

"I'm not trying to shut you out. I just - well after yesterday I need to keep you safe. I will still consider you for rescues as normal and you may not believe it, but I love you son, and I care for your welfare as much as your brothers."

His father had been a lot more aware of his feelings of late. Ever since the scare Gordon had inadvertently given him when he'd taken off to a conference feeling undervalued and angry at being side-lined from operations all the time. Unfortunately, that had ended in near disaster when he nearly suffered decompression sickness and blew his eardrums to pieces. His hearing wasn't what it was, but it was liveable. Almost dying seemed to have forced his father to be more empathetic these days.

"I know dad, I'm sorry I was angry yesterday."

"It's alright son." Jeff smiled, the crinkles appearing deeper around his glass blue eyes. "I've spoken to Alan, and he assures me that it won't happen again. He won't say it, but I can tell it upset him to see you hurt."

Gordon tried not to scoff, instead he said. "Right well I'll get on then before he has to endure me some more."

With that he walked out back to his room to get ready and tell Tin Tin the good news.

Jeff shook his head. He knew there would be personality clashes, hell Scott and John could really gun for each other sometimes. He just wished they had all outgrown it now he was an old man. He sighed heavily before settling his accounts book in front of him. He just hoped this separation would be enough to reset their relationship with each other.

x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x

By mid-morning, Gordon had flights scheduled to arrive for the early evening. His Father refused to have Virgil drop them directly in Malaysia, so they were flying out from Auckland, Scott had kindly offered to fly them out on his way home.

A quick round of goodbyes ensued with Alan nowhere to be seen. Tin-Tin embraced her father for several minutes, a few tears in her eyes that he had chosen not to come with them. He murmured soft assurances that he would be well and she promised to bring him back some butterfly pea flowers so he could make his favourite dish.

Gordon gave his dad an awkward handshake, his earlier warning about taking precautions was enough to have his ears burning. He somehow managed to look Kryano in the eye and tell him he would take good care of his daughter. Thankfully a quick goodbye to Virgil and Brains got him away and into the plane. Settling his harness over his chest, he turned to face Tin Tin who was beaming at him in excitement. Taking his hand, she announced to Scott that they were ready when he was.

Moments later they were in the air, Gordon watching his home quickly reduce to a tiny spec. His heart ached a little at leaving his trusty little sub behind, but he knew Virgil would keep her ship shape until he returned. Scott closed the port window, cutting off the view of home as they accelerate even faster.

The short journey went without a hitch, there wasn't much talking. It was hard to hear back here in the secondary cabin of TB1 where she wasn't sound proofed, it wasn't often she had to take passengers, and she wasn't geared for it. Gordon's ass was already uncomfortably numb from the fold down seat. Scott announced over the comms that they were coming up on the landing point. He was making some excuse to local air control about needing a stopover.

They undid their harnesses and got ready to leave after Scott switched to horizontal flight. Scott was dropping them on an old runway strip just outside the airport complex which would make it look they they'd simply walked from the car park to catch the shuttle train to the terminal.

They landed as Scott watched the cameras to see if they were being watched. It looked abandoned as it always did. "Right; have a swell time you too and hopefully I'll see you soon."

"Bye Scott thank you for the lift." Tin-Tin stepped past.

"You're welcome honey, just keep this one out of trouble for me. I don't want to scrape him off the seabed this time around."

"Aww Scott." Moaned Gordon.

He laughed. "Go on! Get going before anyone starts snooping around."

They descended before quickly running over to the cover of the old, abandoned hangar. Breathless they slipped on the road and walked the short half a mile to the train stop. A buzzing feeling was building in Gordon now, the reality sinking in that they were going to be together with no one holding it over them. Taking Tin's hand in his and kissing the back he interlocked his fingers firmly in hers as they waited. She beamed at him; the building excitement was infectious. As they waited Gordon made a point to message Rose his thanks and that Scott had spoken to him about his news and that he'd support him anyway he could. He still couldn't help but think about Scott's news, Gordon couldn't even begin to imagine how he must feel. He resolved to check in with him tomorrow.

It was late evening by the time they reached Kula Lumpur. Gordon had charted them a private flight taking just five hours instead of the usual eight and a half. Then they hopped straight on the night train that would take them out to Tin Tin's village in the outer fringes of Kedah.

Gordon gently collapsed on the silky soft bedding on the small double bed and groaned in relief. He'd been sweating buckets, and the air con was a delight. Not to mention his side was on fire from being sat in a seat for the majority of the day then lugging his bag because he felt guilty at letting Tin Tin carry it all. She sat on the bed next to him, the steady clacking of the train rocked the cabin slightly as the monorail picked up traction. "Let me take a look."

Gordon unbuttoned the front of his shirt whilst Tin Tin rummaged through her bag to pull out some local anaesthetic cream. He shrugged off his shirt before resting his head against the pillow once more. Tin Tin gasped at the deepening brown/purple bruising.

"That pretty huh?"

"Oh Gordon, you were so very lucky, but I can't imagine it feels like it." She started to dab swathes of cream onto his side, the medicinal scent was a soothing as the cream. It felt like cold glutinous liquid was dowsing the fire within his skin providing instant relief. It was divine. He all put purred as he slumped further into the pillows.

"It'll heal. I've had worse to be fair."

"Hmm." She gently tended to his side. her hands skimming the planes of his chest filling him with a warm fuzzy feeling. She then turned her attention to his ankle. She gently stretched it for him, massaging the stiff muscles before applying some ointment too. Feeling thoroughly spoiled; he beckoned her back towards him. Gordon pulled her in for a lengthy kiss, wishing he could wrap himself around her, but the pain was too great. Tin Tin gently brushed his hair away from his forehead and pressed a soft kiss between his eyes. "I'm going to get ready for bed. You should rest while you can. We may have a bit of walking to do tomorrow."

His hand trailed along her side. He wanted nothing more than to scoop her up into his embrace and get lost in her. Instead, he could feel how battered he was and knew his idea of getting ready for bed with her was dead in the water. Damn Alan! He'd inadvertently thwarted their relationship again. So, whilst she was in the bathroom he satisfied himself with contemplating all the different ways he could lavish his attention and affection on her when he was well. It was in this mindset that he dropped into a blissful slumber. When Tin Tin returned, she gently threw a spare throw over him before slipping into the covers next to him. Then she hit the light and carefully snuggled into his side so as not to hurt him. Breathing in his soft scent of petrichor with a hint of chlorine. The fresh scent relaxed her into an easy sleep, her hand slipping off his shoulder as she snuggled closer to his warmth. The train whistled on long into the night, slipping past the flurry of the lit city skyline and into the pitch black of the rural hamlets, the illuminated coastline sparkling like diamonds ensconced in Navy velvet.