Chances Not Taken, Choices Not Made

Chapter One

Chris Larabee came out of his office just as the door opened across the room. He watched as the small group of cocky detectives entered and immediately began to stir up trouble among his agents.

“Well, well,” Buck Wilmington exclaimed loudly, “What do we have here, boys? Looks like we’ve been invaded by the real cops.”

“Nah, Buck,” JD Dunne chimed in, “They ain’t the real cops. They’re here to see the real cops!” A proud smile lit up his features as he waited for the reaction from the doorway.

In no time, a brash young man bitterly replied, “You wouldn’t be so tough if you didn’t hide behind those guns of yours. Sitting in vans and watching people. Get out on the streets and play with the big boys sometime. You won’t be so tough.”

Buck and JD guffawed loudly, looking at each other in mock astonishment, then continued to laugh as the young detective fumed so visibly that his face began to turn a deep shade of pink. Ezra Standish simply watched from his desk near the edge of the room. He felt a little pity for the young detective, sensing correctly that he had not truly experienced the streets he claimed to know. Ezra knew, from experience, that those who worked in the belly of the underworld didn’t return unscathed. And they never proclaimed it proudly. A slight sympathy reached Ezra’s eyes as he regarded the young man, and he silently wished him well in his quest for glory.

Chris stepped into the middle of the room between the two groups of officers, his presence putting an immediate end to the bickering. He waited a long moment, eyeing the young detective to be sure he understood the chain of authority, then nodded to the other two officers accompanying him.

Chris was all business when he said, “Some of our underground agents learned last night that the gun ring we’re workin’ on is involved with the drug ring that our friends here from Vice are workin’ on. We’re gonna be workin’ together now, boys. So, we’re gonna start gettin’ along.”

JD’s face fell slightly as he looked toward Buck, but Buck was staring at the pen he held in his hands. JD looked back over his shoulder toward Ezra, but Ezra was looking at the detectives. Looking back at Chris, he waited for the next statement, not sure how he felt about this grouping.

Chris studied his three agents carefully, avoiding JD’s eyes to avoid his questions, then he looked at the Vice cops. Neither group was thrilled to be working with the other, but neither group had a choice. Chris didn’t particularly like it either, but if it meant closing this case quickly, he would do whatever it required.

“Okay,” Chris said after a moment, “Let’s share a little information.” He stepped toward the conference room then waited at the door for the others to enter.

One by one the detectives and agents filed past Chris, taking seats opposite each other around the table. Chris took in the seating, then shook his head slightly. This would definitely be a challenge for all of them.

Still standing at the head of the table, Chris said, “I don’t know all of you, so we probably need to start there.” He turned slightly to face the only woman among them. “Molly?”

Amelia Eagan looked sharply at Chris, warning him about the use of his private name for her. Then she turned toward the members of Chris’s team when she spoke.

“It’s Amelia. Amelia Eagan.” She glanced quickly toward Chris again, then back to his agents. JD looked at the leader of his team also, noticing a slight twitch in Chris’s jaw. On his left, JD saw a tiny smirk on Ezra’s face that he was barely trying to conceal. JD fought to repress a smile as well, returning his attention to Detective Eagan as she continued.

“Randy Sterling,” Amelia gestured to the eldest member of the Vice team, “is our surveillance leader. He’s the liaison from DEA, who has pretty much been in charge of this operation. They’ve been keeping tabs on the men we believe are running the show at the street level. There are two other agents here in Denver, both of them in a van outside Radissi’s as we speak. You’ll meet them later.” She paused and looked toward the obnoxious young detective who had challenged Buck. “Trey Porter holds down the fort. He keeps all of our information straight and makes sure we’re all on the same page. If you want to know anything about the case, you talk to Trey. And if you learn anything new, you tell Trey. He’s pretty much our lifeline on this one.”

When Amelia seemed to be finished, Buck spoke up, “What are you doing?” He avoided looking directly at her, and Amelia noticed it immediately. So did Chris.

“I’m in the thick of it.”

JD interjected in a surprised voice, “You’re undercover?”

Amelia looked directly at the young agent, leveling him quickly, and said, “Yes. I am.”

Chris spoke before anything more was said, “Mol...” he stumbled, then recovered, “Detective Eagan works as a waitress in one of the clubs owned by our man. We just made the connections last night. Seems he owns several businesses in the area, through various companies, but all of the trails lead back to one corporation - Fantasma Enterprises.”

“Fantasma?” questioned JD.

“Ghost...” Ezra said without emotion, his eyes focused before him on the reflection of his fingers in the slick surface of the conference table. Though he appeared disinterested, Chris knew his agent was cataloguing every word of the conversation.

“Ghost,” repeated JD.

Amelia replied, “People on the street call him ’El Invisible.’ The Invisible. No one’s ever seen him. No one still living, anyway.”

Five pairs of eyes flashed as her statement sunk in, and Buck flinched. Chris waited a beat then said, “Fantasma Enterprises was formed after people starting using ’El Invisible’ to refer to him. He named his corporation after the reputation he had gained on the streets.”

Buck snarled, “Like he’s proud of what he’s doin’. Like he’s mockin’ us for not bein’ able to find him.”

Amelia nodded, “Exactly.”

Trey Porter added, “Which is why we want him so badly. I’m really getting tired of him being in control.”

Ezra lifted his eyes to meet Trey’s and asked, “May I assume, then, that he is aware of the surveillance surrounding his establishments?”

Randy Sterling answered, “Oh, yes. And he loves to screw us around.”

Buck asked, “But you’ve never seen him?”

Randy shook his head, “Not that we know of. It’s a little hard to chase a ghost.”

JD’s exasperation was apparent when he asked, “Then how do we find him? How do we even know when we do get him?”

Amelia responded, “That’s my job. The employees at his clubs work through a hierarchy. They start out at ground level, then move up from club to club, eventually working in his most exclusive club, Radissi’s, which is the one he’s known to frequent. I’m two clubs away, and sure to be promoted within the week.”

JD asked, “How do you get promoted?”

Amelia looked away slightly and her voice dropped to a sad tone as she replied, “You don’t want to know.”

Ezra’s eyes flew up suddenly to see Amelia’s somber expression. He quickly masked his reaction and returned his gaze to the tabletop. Buck never looked up, but his jaw clenched tightly as the room filled with a heavy silence. Finally, Chris took over.

“Okay,” he began quietly, “we only have today to share all we know. Amelia goes deep under tomorrow afternoon, and she won’t be back in touch with us for several days and possibly weeks. There is one person within the Fantasma organization who is ready to talk with us. He’s aware that we’ll have agents there, and he’s agreed to get us as close to El Invisible as he can. He’s the closest we may ever be able to get, so we’re taking it. He’s setting it all up in exchange for leniency for his own part in all of this. Ezra has made the contacts already, through the gun dealers, so it’ll now be up to him and the informant to close this deal. Amelia will work the drug angle. Our guy won’t know who the agents are, so don’t give him anything to go on. Ezra,” Chris paused and looked at his stylish agent, “I want you to get our man to trust Amelia. I want the two of you working together all the time. I’ll feel a lot better knowing you both have someone right there to back you up if something goes wrong.”

Ezra glanced at Amelia. Her eyes showed a tiny flash of fear that only Ezra saw. But, for some reason, it didn’t bother him. Instead, it made him more determined to crack this case.

Chris continued, gesturing in Buck’s direction, “Buck Wilmington will meet with the informant regularly to pump him for information. JD Dunne will fall into surveillance with the rest of you. The others members of my team will be available for extra manpower as we get closer to the bust. Until then, it’s all up to you guys. I suggest you all find a room somewhere and exchange information. From now on, you’re inseparable.”

The six officers glanced around at each other, taking in their new team members and considering what lay ahead. Chris waited a moment, then moved to the doorway to signal the end of their meeting. He looked each of them directly in the eyes as they passed into the outer office, but when Amelia reached him, he placed a gentle hand on her forearm. She stopped, but he waited until the room was empty before he spoke.

“Don’t take any risks, Molly.” His voice showed great concern, though his countenance did not change from its stoic appearance.

Amelia looked deep into his green eyes, deep into a place she once knew too well, and replied quietly, “I won’t do anything that isn’t necessary. I never do.”

Chris met her stare, searching her eyes, peering deep into her soul, until she finally was forced to glance away. He released her arm.

“Remember that you’re on my team now,” he said as she began to walk past him, “And I like my agents to return in one piece from their assignments.”

She glanced slightly over her shoulder and said to him, “I’ll keep that in mind...sir.” Her emphasis on the final word caused a slight bristle in Chris. He sighed and walked toward his office, hoping for a speedy end to this whole ordeal.

As the six members of the newly formed team gathered their information and headed toward the hallway, Mary Travis entered the office with her cousin, Josie Cavender. The women were met with smiles and friendly hellos, but only Ezra stopped before them. Mary smiled at Ezra but moved past him toward the office of the team’s leader. Josie craned her neck to look up at her friend. Ezra’s eyes told her all she needed to know.

“You’re bailing out on me,” she said with a slight smile but narrowed eyes.

Ezra smiled sheepishly and replied, “New assignment. I am truly sorry. I was so looking forward to getting away from the suffocation of these surroundings, especially with such a charming companion.”

Josie shook her head as her smile increased. “You’re not getting outta this one so easy, mister. I suppose you can’t make dinner either?”

Ezra’s mouth twisted and his face wrinkled slightly. “I really am sorry, Josephine. I would give anything to be rid of this case.”

Josie’s face showed immediate concern. “You’re not gonna get hurt again, are you? I don’t think I can stomach any more gunshot wounds, Ezra. I don’t play nurse very well.”

Ezra’s eyes softened and he brushed the backs of his fingers slowly across her cheek. “I promise to stay clear of the gunfire this time, my dear.”

Josie looked into his eyes and forced an uncertain smile. “I’ll hold you to that, my friend.”

Ezra smiled widely then leaned down and placed a tender kiss on her forehead. “You do that, darlin’.”

As Ezra walked away to follow his team, Josie said, “You still owe me lunch.”

Ezra nodded without turning around, waving his hand in the air slightly in acknowledgment. Josie’s heart was heavy. She looked around the sparsely furnished office, her eyes landing on Ezra’s desk. Perfectly organized and spotless. As if he didn’t really work there. She sighed. Her heart broke a little more each time she thought of the difficulty her friend had experienced in his chosen line of work. She would never understand why he continued to suffer through the humiliation of constantly being distrusted, of never knowing who was on his side. He had tried to reassure her that this team, these six men with whom he was now working, were the best he’d ever known. True friends, though he would never admit it to anyone else. But Josie still had her doubts. Her own life had been filled with the pain of being let down and kept down, and she had a very hard time accepting that people might truly be good inside. And since coming to know Ezra as she had, she didn’t understand how he could trust so completely after the miserable life he himself had known.

Josie turned away from Ezra’s desk and noticed Chris leaving his office, with her cousin close behind. He flipped on the large television set in the meeting room and stepped back only inches as he watched the scene being played. Josie could see only images. Blurs of people running, the frantic pace of cameras being jostled. She walked slowly toward the room and began to see children hurrying out of a building. As she moved nearer, she could hear screams from the video on the screen. She squinted her eyes at the television and moved into the doorway to stand beside Mary.

In a hushed voice Mary said, “There was a shooting downtown. A pizza place full of teenagers.”

Josie looked up at her cousin without expression then toward the television. Chris stood motionless, one elbow resting on his fist, the other fist curled around his chin. After a moment, he inhaled deeply and stormed out of the room. Mary Travis stood for only a second then followed him back into his office. Josie was transfixed in the doorway.

Mary settled into the chair across from Chris’s desk and listened as he made the requisite phone calls. Agents had been sent to the downtown location. Two of his own men were nearby and had offered to help. That was good. Did they need more? No. Well, we’re here if you need us. Mary made mental notes of the conversation, though she knew she would not be covering this story. Her job today concerned a bad bust from the week before. And Chris was not helping her see the bureau’s side of it. No matter what he said to her, she continued to see the incompetence of the agents involved. They weren’t Chris’s agents, but still he felt it necessary to defend them. And Mary felt it necessary to point out the flaws in that defense. They quickly returned to the heated discussion they had begun before the report of the shooting had come in.

When Vin Tanner entered his team’s office he wasn’t sure, at first, that he’d come through the correct door. It was deserted. And quiet. It was never quiet. He grinned at the thought of possibly having a peaceful afternoon in which to catch up on some work.

Then he heard crying. Or he thought it was crying. More like sniffling. He turned toward the sound and saw Josie Cavender sitting in a chair in the meeting room. He watched her a moment, finally realizing that she was indeed crying, and he felt like he should do something for her. But he wasn’t sure what. He stood, shifting from one foot to the other, then dug into the pocket of his jeans and pulled out a fresh, white handkerchief. He moved a few steps toward the room, paused a second and debated turning around before she saw him, then shook off the cowardice and proceeded to where Josie sat with her eyes glued to the television.

Vin spoke quietly, “Josie?”

The startled young woman turned her head abruptly toward Vin and stared with wide eyes. Vin noticed how gray her eyes appeared when brimming with tears, and he felt a slight lurch in the pit of his stomach at the sadness contained there. He automatically offered her the handkerchief, his thoughts far from the shyness he had been feeling a moment earlier.

Josie looked at the folded white cloth being offered, glanced at the floor before her then shook her head in embarrassment and reached to take the handkerchief. She sniffled a little as she began to wipe the tears from her cheeks, then laughed sardonically.

“I’m sorry. I don’t know what’s gotten into me.”

Vin glanced at the television screen, immediately recognizing the scene being played out on the local news broadcast. Body after body was being carried out of the pizza parlor. Bodies of teenagers, children, families. He stared at the screen and felt his stomach tighten once more. Too many bodies.

Josie joined Vin in his attention, her eyes again filling with tears at the sight of the massacre that had taken place earlier that day. A crawl across the bottom of the screen proclaimed 15 confirmed dead, 6 critically injured...innocent bystanders of a shootout between two teenagers, reportedly members of rival gangs. As the words began again, repeating what had already been stated fifty times in only a few minutes, Josie and Vin forced themselves to look away.

Quietly, she asked, “Were you out there?"

Vin shook his head slowly, deep in thought, and replied, “I was already doin’ somethin’ else. Josiah and Nathan went out to help, I think."

Josie nodded, her eyes far away. After a second, she closed them, hoping to shut out the bloody crime scene images. Vin turned to watch Josie. He was just about to move and sit beside her when she stood suddenly, wiping her eyes completely dry, the tears having magically stopped flowing. She forced a smile at Vin.

“This world..." she said ruefully.

Vin nodded. “Gets pretty crazy sometimes."

Josie agreed, “It’s just so hard to take when innocent people get hurt."

Vin responded, “Hard to take no matter who’s involved."

Josie shrugged and said, “It’s not a big deal when it’s gangs taking each other out. Seems like justice somehow. But these kids...these families...they didn’t deserve to be caught in the middle."

Vin studied her with a slight wrinkle in his brow, then quietly replied, “It ain’t good. Whether it’s innocent people or gangs. Gangs are just groups of kids. It ain’t good what’s happening."

Josie looked into Vin’s eyes and with a slight determination in her voice said, “I just think that some people, people who make those wrong choices, sometimes they get what they deserve."

Vin’s jaw flinched, but he said, “Nobody deserves to die. Not like that."

Josie regarded Vin intently, her eyes staring hard into his, then she glanced away and smiled slightly. “We all make choices, don’t we. Can’t always tell how it’s gonna play out, but we gotta deal with the consequences of our choices, no matter what."

She dropped her head and moved around Vin toward the door, turning just before exiting the meeting room and looking toward the television once more. She released a deep sigh at the scene, looked at the floor, then turned and walked from the room with her head down.

Vin watched her go, confused by her statements, unsure of his own feelings for her. He was unaware how closely he was watching her until he was startled back to reality by Mary Travis’s voice right beside his ear.

“Are you ever going to ask her?"

Vin turned slowly to his left, his face only inches from the journalist’s, and with an exasperated shake of his head, replied gruffly, “Not now, Mary."

Mary’s eyes danced as she looked at the ATF’s best sharpshooter. “You may not get many chances, Vin."

Vin inhaled deeply through his nose, held the breath a moment, then exhaled slowly in the same manner, looking directly into Mary’s haze-colored eyes. His voice was firm as he punctuated each word, “Not now."

Stepping past the reporter, he made a point to shove her slightly with his shoulder. She moved with him then locked her body in place and gritted her teeth. She heaved a deep sigh and rolled her eyes. She would never figure out what made Vin Tanner tick, and it irked her to no end.

Chris Larabee watched Mary leave the room from his office doorway. He was still fuming over some statements she had made, and he found himself thinking “good riddance" as she started through the door. He was surprised to see her turn around completely and determinedly walk back toward him. He didn’t like the look in her eyes.

Choosing to meet this one head on, Chris waited for her to enter his office, and as soon as she crossed the threshold, he shut the door and returned to his desk, assuming a position of authority as the forceful reporter burst forth with further heated questions. Although he was tired of her questions, and more than irritated with her persistence, Chris found himself noticing the way she flipped her long blonde hair as she fired her accusations against the ATF. Still, he was always ready to respond whenever she gave him the chance to speak.

Vin tried to ignore them, but when their voices began to rise and become clearer through the closed door, he decided it was time to leave. He knew he wouldn’t want to be around when it was over. Chris would certainly have a lot to say then, and Vin just didn’t feel like hearing it today.

He crossed the room quickly and moved into the hallway, started toward the elevator but decided against it and headed for the stairwell instead. He only realized he had passed Josie in the hall when he was surrounded suddenly by her familiar perfume. He turned a little too quickly and felt himself flush as he saw that she was looking in his direction. Her slight smirk only increased his embarrassment. But she was gracious enough not to say anything, rather turning away and walking toward his team’s office.

Vin turned the knob on the stairwell door and pushed it open a little, then stopped and glanced back down the hall. Josie was just reaching the office entrance.

With a deep breath for confidence, Vin stepped back from the door and called her name as he walked toward her a few steps. She turned slightly, her eyes showing a question, but she did not speak. She simply waited in silence.

That silence seemed to pound in Vin’s ears until he forced himself to say, “Are you busy tonight?"

Josie looked at him a moment longer, prolonging the silence, then smiled slightly and replied, “I’m always busy."

Vin stared at her, not sure how to take her response, then nodded and looked away. He was about to turn around when she said, “Why?

He looked up quickly to see that she was genuinely curious. He shifted from one foot to the other, cocking a hip and leaning slightly, then said, "Well...maybe we could do something? Uh...go somewhere? Together?"

Vin waited, inadvertently holding his breath and willing his stomach to release its swirling butterflies. He wasn’t sure he heard her answer at first, but finally his brain registered her statement.

"Did ya have something in mind?"

Vin thought a moment, then felt himself relax. He grinned and said, "Yeah, I did. If you’re free tonight."

Josie smiled back at him, pondering his offer, then replied with a shrug, "Sure. Why not."

Vin’s smile increased as his body returned to its pre-tension state. He nodded and said, "Okay. I’ll pick ya up at...six?"

Josie nodded, "Six is good."

Vin nodded with her, not realizing how silly they both looked, and how juvenile, then smiled widely and began to take steps backward toward the stairwell. Josie’s eyes widened slightly at the sight. He looked like a teenager, and it almost made her laugh. She was glad when he turned away and walked back to the stairwell.

But then, as if on afterthought, Vin turned back toward Josie, glancing at the dress she wore, and asked, "Do ya have a pair of jeans?"

Josie’s eyebrows raised slightly, then she smirked and replied, "Yes, I own a pair of jeans."

Vin nodded and said, "Ya might wanna wear ’em tonight." He paused a moment then added, "An’ a comfortable shirt."

Josie simply looked at Vin with a bemused smile, then said, "Anything else?"

Vin waited a beat and responded, "Boots would be good. Ya have some boots?"

Josie’s jaw dropped slightly, but with a mildly indignant voice she said, "Yes, I have some boots."

Vin nodded again and said, "Ya might wanna wear them, too."

Josie continued to stare at Vin, not sure if she should be offended or amused. He looked at her a minute then smiled. As he turned to leave again, he called back, "I’ll see ya at six."

As she watched him enter the stairwell, Josie’s shoulders sagged and she looked around the empty hallway in amazement. What had just happened? And why was she not offended by that? Josie found that she couldn’t get Vin Tanner out of her head throughout the rest of the day.

+ + + + + + +

The clock in the conference room was nearing 5:00 p.m. when Randy Sterling finally suggested they all take a break. Ezra found a quiet spot at the end of the hallway in which to stare out of a window at the city below. He always felt a little edgy when it seemed a case was finally being pulled together, and this one made him especially fidgety. He had been forcing himself to sit still during their briefing sessions, but now he needed a new focus. He stared down at the cars parked across the street and wondered how long it would be until he saw that street again.

JD found himself beginning to like the brash young Vice detective. Trey Porter was pretty green when it came to actual experience, but he certainly did know his stuff. He had compiled file after file, notebooks even, of research concerning El Invisible and his dealings. JD had learned more about their own weapons case from Trey Porter than he had from his own surveillance efforts. Of course, he would never admit it, but JD kind of admired the fellow. A little.

Buck wandered toward the coffee machine and poured himself a cup. He opted against any fillers, thinking it better to take it black and strong this time. That cup of coffee fit his mood.

He hadn’t spoken much during the afternoon, only adding what he knew firsthand about the case. He had listened intently to all that was presented, finding it more and more difficult to enjoy his work on this one. He would be working backup from now on, no longer needed to complete the weapons purchase. That would be left to Ezra. Buck would meet with their informant and relay information back to the team, and in between he would be helping with the surveillance and keeping tabs on the traffic in and out of El Invisible’s domain. But Buck was worried about his duties. He felt sure he wouldn’t be able to sit back and wait for the deal to play out. He had a bad feeling about it already.

All they really knew about El Invisible came from their one informant. They had volumes of information on the trafficking of weapons into Denver, on the dealers and on the gangs who were being supplied with those weapons. They now knew that the increase in cocaine and heroin traffic was also the work of El Invisible. But when it came to learning about the man himself, they always hit a brick wall.

He was believed to be a one-time member of the Covoran organization, but this had never been confirmed. By their best guess, El Invisible rose to power immediately after Emilio Covoran died, less than two years ago. With no heir to assume his drug empire, a member of Covoran’s organization would have to take control of his interests or watch the empire crumble. Covoran’s supporters would never have let that happen. He was too valuable to their own franchises. His connections reached farther and his loyalties were greater than anyone’s in the Southwest or Mexico, and including parts of Central America. The Bureau had to assume that a Covoran hireling took power when Emilio died. When he did, he expanded the empire to include weapons. And within a year, he brought it to Denver.

Everyone, in all of the agencies combined, ached to bring down El Invisible.

While Buck stared into the air before him, Amelia moved beside him at the coffee table and poured herself a steaming cup. She, too, took it black. Buck broke from his reverie and watched from the corner of his eye as Amelia closed her eyes and breathed deeply of the piquant steam that rose from the styrofoam cup between her hands. She held her breath a moment then exhaled slowly, her eyes opening as she tilted her head and sipped the hot liquid. Loose strands of her deep red hair fell forward on her cheeks, partially obscuring her face. Buck turned slightly toward her and just barely resisted the desire to brush the hair from her face.

From behind cover of the coffee cup, Amelia whispered, "Don’t stare, Buck."

Buck’s eyes lit up as he realized he had been entranced by her, and he turned away abruptly, his cheeks gaining a pinkish tint. Amelia hid behind her cup as a smile crossed her mouth. She bit her lower lip until she regained composure, but a slight chuckle rose within her chest despite her best efforts to contain it. She turned toward the wall and pretended to study a framed print that hung there, and Buck busied himself with the files on the table.

Only a few moments later and the room began to fill with their partners, each one eager to finish up and call it a night. They had hours to go before that would happen.

+ + + + + + +

When Vin arrived at Josie’s condo at 5:45, Josie wasn’t surprised. She had somehow known he would be early, and she had planned accordingly. When she opened the door only moments after he’d rung, she was almost startled at her own thoughts. Standing before her was the same man she had seen for close to a year, at least once or twice a week, yet she had never really noticed how attractive he was. She studied him for a moment, taking in his chiseled jaw and full mouth, and forcing herself not to let her eyes travel any lower than his face. When she finally looked into his bright blue eyes, the one feature she had always noticed, she saw that he was also inspecting her. His eyes were traveling upward from her boot-adorned feet, a little too slowly she thought, until his gaze finally met hers. Her eyebrows were curiously raised as she looked into his eyes.

Vin smiled broadly, his eyes taking on a teasing glint, and he said, "So, ya do own some good ole simple clothes."

Josie’s eyes narrowed slightly, and she responded, "I told you I did."

Vin’s smile widened as he said, "Yeah, but I figured ya might just go out an’ buy some just to impress me." His tone of voice became more and more teasing with every word.

Josie refused to allow the smile in her heart to reach her eyes. "I don’t need to impress you."

Vin’s smile stopped short as he regarded her statement. He just stared at her, a little surprised, for a long moment, weighing her words and trying to determine the intent behind it. Josie let him sweat just a bit before she broke into a wide smile and eased his uncertainty. Vin chuckled and shook his head at his own reaction.

As Josie locked the door to her house and started down the walk, Vin said, "Ya know, places like these oughta be outlawed."

Frowning, Josie looked up at him and said, "What?"

Vin nodded toward her home, "These condos. They all look the same, all the way down the street. And ya can’t see the numbers on the buildings unless ya stop an’ stare really hard. I didn’t think I’d ever find yours. I kept drivin’ up an’ down the street, slowin’ at every building. I bet your neighbors think I been casin’ the street."

Josie laughed a little and replied, "How could you get lost? I live right next door to Ezra, and I know for a fact that you’ve been to his house at least a dozen times."

Vin nodded, "Yeah, but I always have the same problem. I never remember which one it is. D’ya know how embarrassin’ that is? I’m always the best with directions."

Josie stopped halfway down the walk and turned toward Ezra’s unit. Only slightly lifting her hand, she pointed toward the corner of his garage, "There’s a security camera just under the eaves, in the corner. He’s the only one on the street who has one."

Vin squinted, then smiled when he saw the well-hidden device. Teasingly he replied, "Ya expect me to see that when I cain’t even read the numbers on the front of the houses?"

Josie shrugged, "Hey, you asked. That’s how you know it’s Ezra’s."

She took a step forward to signal that they should be going, and Vin fell into step with her. Her voice was light as they crossed the parking lot toward Vin’s Jeep.

"So, how do ya know I didn’t really go out and buy these clothes today anyway? Not that I would’ve wanted to impress ya, but maybe I wanted some new things?"

Vin pointed toward her feet and said, "Those boots have seen better days. Ya didn’t buy ’em for tonight, that’s for sure. And those jeans..." He paused and his gait slowed a bit as he leaned back and glanced at the rear view of Josie’s Levi’s. She lowered her head a bit and eyed him with suspicion. Vin’s eyes quickly traversed the length of her legs, then he straightened and moved back into step beside her as he continued, "Those jeans are mighty comfortable, I ’magine."

Josie shook her head in amazement but couldn’t mask an embarrassed smile. Vin smiled too, which quickly turned into a loud chuckle, and his step gained a slight bounce.

Josie was still shaking her head when she said, "This is gonna be a very interesting evening."

As he stood beside the passenger side of his Jeep, waiting for Josie to climb in, Vin’s smile covered his face from ear to ear, and he said, "It could go either way."

Josie nodded and rolled her eyes, then smiled to herself in anticipation of the unknown.

Chapter Two

The briefing session ended around 8:45, and six weary officers gathered their materials and straggled out of the conference room and down the hall toward the elevators. Waiting for the car, Amelia rolled her head clockwise several times and attempted to massage the back of her neck with her right hand. She sighed deeply after a moment and allowed her shoulders to sag. Her exhaustion was evident.

Ezra stepped toward her and placed his hands on Amelia's shoulders just at the base of her neck. Quietly, he said, "Allow me," then began a rhythmic massaging motion.

Amelia stiffened at first touch then relaxed and allowed her head to fall forward until her chin almost rested on her chest. A quiet moan of pleasure sounded from her throat, and she closed her eyes and smiled while Ezra's fingers worked magic. As he moved his fingers upward to massage the area at the hairline near her ears, Amelia sighed tiredly.

"Right there?" Ezra asked, unaware of the stares from his colleagues surrounding them in the hall.

Amelia mumbled, "Mm-hmm..." then whispered, "Right there..." Her shoulders sagged a little more as Ezra's fingers walked up and down the length of her neck which was exposed by her upswept hair.

The ding of the elevator's bell broke the silence that had encompassed the agents in the hallway. Amelia stood tall once again and Ezra pulled his hands away. She looked back over her shoulder at the undercover agent who would be her best friend for the next month or more, and she smiled cheerfully.

"You have good hands, Mister Sullivan."

Ezra revealed only a tiny smile, but the glint in his clear green eyes betrayed his appreciation of her comment. "Happy to oblige, Miss Engle."

He tipped an imaginary hat to her, then swept his arm toward the elevator in a grand gesture of signaling for her to proceed before him. Neither of them noticed the other four officers whose eyes were fixed on them.

The ride to the ground floor was silent, and Amelia quickly felt her exhaustion creep back. When JD suggested they all head to the saloon for a round of drinks, she quickly bowed out. She wanted nothing more than to soak in a warm tub and get a long night of sleep. There wouldn't be many more of those for a good while.

JD and Trey had found a common interest in their love of motorcycles and NASCAR, and they talked incessantly on the short trip to the old bar. Randy and Ezra continued to go over a few more facts of the case that were bothering Ezra a bit, but Buck stayed aloof. He had seemed distracted all day, and especially irritable, but no one really wanted to find out why. Sometimes it was better to let Buck be moody. He never stayed that way very long.

When they arrived, the saloon was only half full of customers, and the jukebox seemed to be playing nothing but sappy old love songs. Within moments, Buck wished he hadn't joined the others. He called for Inez to bring him a beer, and with a heavy sigh, began to drown his emotions.

+ + + + + + +

Though they had been sitting in the arena almost an hour, Vin and Josie had barely spoken ten words to each other. But Vin wasn't worried. He could tell by the brightness in Josie's eyes that she was having a great time.

Josie's attention was riveted to the arena floor where cowboy after cowboy took their chances on the broncos who came barreling out of the pens at the end of the building. She was hunched forward, feet on the bleacher in front of them, elbows on her knees and chin resting on her hands. And an amazed smile was permanently fixed on her lips. She looked like a ten-year-old at her first major league baseball game. Vin grinned widely and continued to stare at her.

When the last competitor had completed his ride, Josie lazily straightened her back and stretched a bit. She caught Vin in the corner of her eye and glanced over. His grin was still in place, but when she looked at him he shook his head and winked.

She ducked her head, embarrassed, then chuckled and said, "I haven't been to a rodeo since I was a kid. Forgot how much I love it."

Vin nodded, "I can tell."

Josie's face flushed a tiny bit and she chuckled again. She glanced around the arena, watching the upcoming competitors prepare for the barrel racing portion, then she thought of something and smiled, looking over at Vin. His face took on a quizzical look, but his grin did not fade.

She began, "I was just rememberin'."

Vin prodded, "Rememberin' what?"

She grinned sheepishly and replied, "I used to think the coolest job in the world would be competin' on the rodeo circuit. Thought I could do as good a job as the best rider there was." She laughed and her shoulders bounced. "Thought it was easy."

Vin shook his head, "Not easy. Tha's the least o' what it is."

She turned to look directly at him and asked, "You competed?"

Vin's eyebrows raised as he replied, "Rodeo? Nah. I'm not that crazy. But I know some people on the circuit. An' I seen what they go through. It ain't easy."

Josie nodded then looked back out across the arena. They sat in companionable silence for a few minutes, Vin looking at his hands, until he worked up the courage to pursue his next line of conversation.

Without looking at her, he asked, "D'ya ever wish ya hadn't left Texas?"

Josie felt a slight shiver trace her spine but she stuffed down the bristling effect and replied quickly, "Nope."

Vin peered at her sideways and asked, "Never?"

Josie stared straight ahead and shook her head slowly. Her answer was firm. "Never."

After a pause, Vin started, "How old were ya when..."

Josie turned abruptly toward Vin and interrupted, "What do ya wanna know, Vin? My life story?"

Vin turned his head to look into her eyes, noticing a wall had risen between them. Gently, he said, "I'm just makin' conversation, Josie. Tha's all. We don't hafta talk it if ya don't want to."

Josie looked into his eyes for a long silent moment, surprised at the gentleness of this rugged cowboy, then turned away and stared at the bleachers below her.

"I'm not real comfortable talkin' about my past. It's not a pretty story."

Vin quietly replied, "I jus' thought we might find somethin' to talk about since we both lived in Texas a while. It don't matter to me."

Josie stared forward a bit longer, then turned her head and looked back at him. She couldn't suppress a smile when she saw how sincere Vin was. And the grin he returned to her softened her defenses somewhat. She sighed and straightened up again.

"I left when I was fifteen. An' I never looked back. Never even missed it until tonight." She turned toward Vin with a glint in her eye and muttered sarcastically, "Thanks."

Vin grinned and replied, "Any time."

Josie smirked and shook her head disdainfully. Vin chuckled loudly and looked away. Josie stole a long glance at her companion, really noticing what a great smile he had and how truly genuine he was. She felt a slight twinge of sadness at realizing how few people she had ever known who could boast such honesty.

As they watched the final preparations for the second half of the competition, Josie relaxed and determined to enjoy herself in a way she had never done before.

+ + + + + + +

The longer Buck sat in the saloon, the more sullen he became. Less than an hour after the group had arrived, he stood and said goodnight.

"Goin' already, Buck?" JD asked, "It's not even ten o'clock. You sick or something?"

Before Buck could answer, a voice came from behind him.

"Probably just got a better place to be, right Buck?" Chris Larabee was smiling slyly at his old friend and clapped a hand on his shoulder.

Buck looked into his friend's eyes and attempted a smile, "You know it." Chris recognized the lack of emotion behind his statement and looked closely at his friend. Buck averted his gaze from Chris's inspection and turned toward the door. Chris pondered the interaction a second then moved to an empty table near the others. Josiah Sanchez followed him, and a barmaid appeared instantly with beer for Josiah and coffee for Chris.

Buck nodded his good-byes to the men and walked out of the bar. He passed Vin and Josie in the parking lot but didn't stop to chat. A simple wave and good evening and Buck was in his truck, barreling down the street.

As Vin and Josie neared the door of the saloon, Josie sarcastically noted, "Wow. When you take a girl out, ya really go all out, don't ya?"

The corner of Vin's mouth turned up slightly and he peered at Josie from the corner of his eye. "Ya said you missed barbecued ribs, so I'm givin' ya the best ribs in town."

Josie's brow furrowed as she replied, "At the saloon? They don't even serve food here. Just pretzels and beer nuts."

Vin grinned mischievously and opened the door for Josie to enter. "Just wait." Josie looked at him curiously and walked into the smoky bar.

Vin moved just slightly in front of Josie as they veered through the patrons near the bar then took her hand and led her to a table in the back corner of the room. He pulled a chair out for her then excused himself to talk with Inez at the bar. Josie watched him walk away then shifted her attention to the rest of the room. She scanned the patrons until her eyes landed on the two tables of agents in the center of the room. Ezra was turned sideways in his chair, his eyes on Vin first then glancing back over at Josie. His mouth was slightly agape.

Josie caught Ezra's sight and tilted her head, smiling sweetly. They held each other's attention for a long moment, but then Josie's eyes trailed back toward the bar and Vin. She watched him from that moment on.

Ezra continued to look at Josie for a full two minutes, then glanced back at Vin. His jaw tightened inadvertently as he watched his colleague take a large platter from Inez and turn back toward the room in Josie's direction. Ezra's eyes slowly blinked, remaining closed for a moment, then he turned back to his table and raised a glass to his lips. He gulped down the last of his imported beer, stood from his seat and walked away without a word.

Only Josiah and Chris were paying attention. They glanced at each other with raised eyebrows, and Josiah commented, "Could get mighty interestin'."

Chris grinned slightly as he raised a coffee mug to his lips. He simply nodded and looked back toward the corner table Vin was approaching.

Vin was smiling triumphantly as he returned to the table. The platter he held was piled high with steaming ribs bathed in sticky, sweet barbecue sauce. He placed them directly in front of Josie then reached around the table and grabbed a chair, swinging it toward him and dropping it next to hers.

Josie's smile was wide as she looked at the platter before her. "Where'd all this come from?"

Vin's face was lit with enthusiasm. "Inez owed me a favor. She's been keepin' these in the freezer 'til I asked her to cook 'em up."

"You've been saving these?" Josie asked, slightly suspicious.

Vin shrugged and replied, "I figure tonight's as special as any for a good plate of ribs." He avoided her eyes as he spoke, but his grin appeared again.

Josie studied his profile for a moment, then dropped her eyes and smiled to herself. She didn't wait long to join Vin in devouring the platter of specially prepared ribs. And she found herself thinking it just might be the best meal she'd ever had.

+ + + + + + +

Buck had been driving for thirty minutes. He was carefully maneuvering the dimly lit alley of the quiet neighborhood, and his heart was pounding. A bright smile illuminated his features when he finally pulled into the back driveway and killed his truck's engine. Stealthily he made his way to the back door of the small house, fumbled for the correct key, then let himself into the darkened living room. He took one last encompassing look across the backyard and down the alley before closing himself in the house and locking the door.

He stood at the door for a minute while his eyes adjusted to the darkness, then tiptoed around the furniture into the short hallway that led to the bedroom. When he saw her lying in bed, her back to him but bare arms exposed above the sheets, he stood still and let his eyes travel down the length of her thinly covered form. Seeing her brought a wide smile to his lips, pulling the corners of his mustache upward toward his ears. Tight crinkles formed at the edges of his eyes, and he breathed deeply as affection filled his soul.

Buck gingerly stepped toward the bed, noticing as he neared that the light filtering through the thin curtains placed a soft glow around her curvaceous body. He stopped again to admire her, wanting nothing more than to move his hands through her lush red hair and hold her for days.

Amelia's voice came quietly through the darkness. "I wasn't sure you'd come tonight."

Buck placed a knee on the bed and sat beside her, letting his hand move freely across her stomach as she rolled onto her back to face him. He leaned over her and bent his face near hers, then whispered, "I had to."

Amelia reached a tender hand to his face, brushing his cheek and cupping his jaw, then smiled and said, "I'm glad. I really wanted you here tonight."

Buck leaned toward her slowly and pressed his lips against hers, at first gentle then more earnest and rough until his heart began to beat wildly and his body ached for her. She responded with equal intensity, rising from the bed to press against him as their kisses became deeper and deeper. She was surprised when he moved away suddenly and sat up straight.

She leaned back on her elbows and asked with a degree of trepidation, "What is it?"

Buck sighed and laced his fingers through hers where they lay on the mattress. "I hate this whole case."

Amelia relaxed, her heart dropping in her chest, and replied in a halting whisper, "I know. I hate it, too."

Buck's voice rose as he said, "Why does it have to be you? Why can't Ezra do this?"

Amelia shook her head sadly, as if to a child, and squeezed her fingers around his. "You know the answer to that. I've been working it too long, and we're really close now. It won't be much longer, especially with two teams."

His eyes fixed on their hands, Buck replied, "It'll be long enough."

Amelia shifted to her side, bringing her free hand up to Buck's face. She brushed her fingers through the length of his hair, then slowly drew them down his jaw and over to his mouth where she traced his lips with only the slightest touch. She smiled at the grin it produced.

Buck sighed again and closed his eyes. Amelia sat up and pulled Buck close to her, kissing him lightly several times in a teasing manner. His smile widened, and the crinkles around his closed eyes reappeared. She waited until he opened his eyes before she spoke.

Looking deeply into his saddened eyes, she said, "No more talk."

Buck's eyes quickly gained a mischievous twinkle and he replied, "Yes, ma'am." Moving forward, he pressed against her until they were lying together in one form, and their kisses gave way to a deeper intimacy.

+ + + + + + +

Josie was giving directions as Vin drove her home. "Now take that right. And then at the next corner, turn left."

Vin smiled, pretending to survey the houses closely.

"It's that one, right?" He was certain it was but was humoring his date.

Josie smiled and patted him on the shoulder, "Very good. I'm proud of you."

Vin grinned, "Well, they don't call me 'the tracker' for nothin'." He glanced over at her as they shared a chuckle, and Vin pulled his Jeep up to the curb.

Vin stepped out, and Josie started to follow but waited. She had learned quickly that Vin wanted to play the role of gentleman. She thought it seemed silly since his Jeep had no doors to open, but she didn't want to hurt his feelings, so she waited. When he appeared at her side, she stepped out, and they walked slowly toward her home.

They were talking quietly as they strolled with their heads down. Ezra was sitting in the darkened corner of his front porch, leaning against his door, and his eyes were fixed on them as they approached. He made no sound.

Josie and Vin were caught up in conversation and did not notice their observer. They stopped at Josie's door, their conversation waning as conversations tend to do. Josie felt an uncomfortable moment creeping up on them, but she couldn't think of anything to avoid it. She finally just looked up at Vin.

He grinned when her eyes met his. "So, ya had a good time?"

Josie smiled and nodded, "A very good time. You did all the right things." She smiled a bright smile for his benefit.

The grin on Vin's mouth faded just a tad while his eyes remained lit, and he said quietly, "Yer real pretty when ya smile like that."

Josie's smile completely disappeared and her eyes widened. She looked away quickly, then dropped her gaze to the ground. Her mind whirred.

Vin's eyes shifted back and forth, and, flustered, he said, "Well, that was the wrong thing to say."

Josie looked up from the ground but did not meet Vin's eyes. In a whisper, she said, "No. That was exactly the right thing to say." She waited a beat and added, "I just never hear it said about me."

Vin studied her a moment, then quietly replied, "Well, it's true."

Josie looked directly at Vin, her gray eyes moist with tears. Vin's heart ached with compassion, and he leaned forward to look directly into her eyes. They inched a tiny bit toward each other, their eyes traveling to the other's lips, until the moment was broken by the sound of a glass bottle rolling across concrete.

Vin and Josie froze and looked at each other in surprise. Ezra's voice pierced the quiet.

"Sorry, sorry," he exclaimed too loudly, his hands waving in the air as he chased the bottle onto Josie's front lawn. "Don't let me interrupt."

Josie looked past Vin and her eyes narrowed at her neighbor. Vin tilted his head slightly toward the sound of Ezra behind him, but he didn't turn to face him. Ezra scooped up the bottle then stumbled on his feet as he straightened back up. He faltered a bit while attempting to regain his balance. When he finally found his equilibrium, he simply stood in place. His eyes met Josie's.

Josie stared through her friend until Vin said, "He's had too much to drink."

Josie's attention returned to Vin, and she nodded. "I'm sorry."

Vin shrugged. "Not your fault Ezra's like he is."

Josie glanced back at Ezra, who was unsuccessfully straining to hear her conversation. "No, but I still feel the need to apologize for him."

Vin's brow furrowed as he considered her statement. He resisted the urge to ask about her relationship with Ezra, though it was in the forefront of his mind. He simply nodded and took one of her hands. She smiled at his touch.

Vin leaned toward her and softly kissed her cheek, then stepped back and said, "G'night. I'll call ya tomorrow."

Though her heart sank at the compensatory kiss, Josie smiled and tightened her fingers around Vin's as he was pulling away. Their hands remained intertwined until the ensuing distance between them forced the release of her grasp. They both smiled widely at the action, then Vin ducked his head a bit and turned to leave.

He walked past Ezra, his head still down, and said in a flat voice, " 'Night, Ezra."

Ezra glanced slightly toward Vin as he passed and replied, equally monotone, "Goodnight, Mister Tanner."

Vin sighed and shook his head as he quickly crossed the lawn to his Jeep. He looked back at Josie once more, tipped his head toward her and smiled, then drove away.

Ezra and Josie stood opposite each other. After a moment of thick silence, Ezra sarcastically stated, "You're positively aglow, my dear."

Josie's lip curled slightly into a snarl. "You're a mean drunk." Ezra guffawed loudly.

She walked toward him as he laughed. With a sweeping gesture of his arms, he loudly exclaimed, "And the life of any party!" Ezra continued to laugh as Josie grasped his arm and tugged, leading him back to his porch.

She stopped on the front porch and picked up the empty six-pack of bottles lying there. Glancing up at her friend, she commented, "Cheap beer, Ezra? What's gotten into you?"

Ezra opened the door and moved into his living room, replying, "Sometimes it's necessary, darlin'. That, and I didn't feel like making decisions tonight. I took the first beverage I encountered."

Josie followed him inside, noticing immediately the second carton of empty bottles on the coffee table in the center of the room. She deposited the first group into the kitchen trash then came back to retrieve the others. She couldn't help but smile at the absurdity of the situation.

Ezra flipped on the stereo and cranked the volume to seven. Immediately the room was filled with the strains of techno-pop. Ezra began to move with the music, taking two giant steps toward Josie and grabbing her hand. He pulled her against him and encircled her with his arms.

Bellowing above the volume of the music blaring from surround-sound speakers, he yelled, "Dance with me!"

Josie's resistance was minimal. Yes, he's a mean drunk, she thought, but he is the life of the party. She looked up at her old friend, shaking her head and laughing as he began to twirl her around the coffee table. Josie stopped him quickly and moved away. Ezra's face dropped at her apparent rejection, but when she moved to the stereo and flipped on the CD player, he smiled again.

She said, "If we're gonna dance, we need better music."

As if on cue, the Bee Gees pierced the atmosphere: Well, you can tell by the way I use my walk, I'm a woman's man: no time to talk.

Josie turned in surprise toward Ezra, her eyebrows raised and her mouth open. Ezra's eyes lit up and he exclaimed with an enthusiastic yelp, "Disco!"

Immediately, he shoved the coffee table against the wall and pulled Josie back into his arms. And Ezra Standish became Tony Manero reincarnate. Having no choice, Josie fell into step with her friend, laughing and following his every move as they attempted to recreate the big dance scene from "Saturday Night Fever". With each new song on the soundtrack, they twisted and turned and slid and shuffled, singing every word together with the CD. When Ezra's exhaustion finally overcame him, he collapsed on the couch and threw his head back. Their laughter died down slowly and silence enveloped them.

Through heavy breaths, Ezra said, "If you ever tell anyone I know The Hustle, I promise your body will never be discovered."

Josie plopped beside him on the couch and laughed, "I can't. If I do, you'll tell everyone I know all the words to 'Disco Duck'."

Ezra laughed loudly and turned toward her, exclaiming, "That's right! You do! Ha! I had completely forgotten that!"

She replied, "And well you should. Besides, it was your stereo. That CD was already loaded."

Ezra nodded sheepishly, and they chuckled a moment longer before falling into silence again. Josie noticed Ezra's breathing begin to slow and she stood to her feet, tugging at his hands.

"Come on," she said, struggling to pull him up from the couch, "Time for bed."

Ezra groaned, "I'll sleep here."

Josie snorted, "Yeah, and you'll never let me hear the end of it. Nope. Get up."

Complaining, Ezra allowed her to pull him to his feet, but he stumbled immediately and fell against her. She was prepared. They stood still while he regained his balance, then she wrapped an arm around his waist and braced him as they made the way to his bedroom. He fell face forward onto the bed.

Shaking her head, Josie returned to the living room and cleaned up the remaining empty bottles, shut off the stereo and returned the room to its usual order. When she came back to Ezra's bedroom, he was still in the same position. She had to laugh.

She climbed onto the side of the bed and shoved him until he rolled onto his back. He opened his eyes slightly and looked at her, then smiled and closed his eyes again. She grinned and moved to the end of the bed to remove his shoes then reached up and removed his belt, as well. Ezra's eyes fluttered as she slid the belt from the loops on his trousers.

He mumbled, "I won't remember any of this in the morning."

Josie smiled and replied, "It's already morning, and that's probably a good thing."

Ezra grinned lazily, "Probably."

Josie then leaned across him and placed a kiss on his forehead. As she was drawing away, Ezra curled his hand around the back of her neck and pulled her toward him gently. He kissed her lips softly, then looked at her through sleepy eyes and smiled. She returned the smile.

Despite his best efforts to stay awake, Ezra's eyes rolled back into his head, and he gave in, saying, "Thank you, Josephine."

Josie removed his hand from her neck and placed it on his chest, replying, "Anytime, my friend." His breathing slowed immediately as Josie turned to leave.

Just as she stepped through the doorway into the hall, Ezra mumbled, "I should brush my teeth."

Josie turned back. "Do you need me to help you?"

Ezra was silent for a long moment, then replied, "No. I suppose it can wait."

Josie's nose turned up at that thought. She shook her head slightly and walked back downstairs. Making sure all was in order, she turned out all the lights and locked Ezra inside. With heavy feet she returned to her home and went immediately to bed, anticipating an early morning that was only a few hours away.

Chapter Three

With the sun not yet risen and the neighborhood still sound asleep, Amelia sat curled up in the corner of her living room sofa. She hadn't slept much at all, and, knowing she would be away from her home for an extended period, she felt the need to sit quietly in the dark one last time before she left. She wasn't surprised, however, when Buck sleepily walked into the room around 5 a.m. His eyes were still partially closed, and his hair was rumpled and standing off the top of his head. Amelia giggled quietly at the sight. She always did.

Buck barely noticed, instead stretching onto the sofa in front of her and lying back with his head against her chest. She stretched her legs around him and wrapped her arms tight about his shoulders. Buck immediately relaxed and drifted off to sleep. Amelia's fingers absently stroked the hair on his bare chest as she once again lost herself in thoughts of what lay ahead.

She forced her mind to ponder all the possibilities for this case. She knew it was necessary to be mostly out of contact with her team, save Ezra, and she knew how dangerous that was. But, she had already worked this angle for three years in Denver, and they were about to be completely inside of El Invisible's lair. If they didn't get to him now, they never would. She was determined to close this exhausting case, if it was the very last thing she ever did.

Amelia sighed deeply at that thought. She was notorious for taking risks, sometimes unnecessarily. And she wasn't trusted like other officers. She had gotten used to being on her own, of always having to prove she could handle the job. Oddly, it was comforting to know that Ezra Standish had also experienced the same type of scrutiny. During their respective careers, both had even been suspected of being on the take, though Ezra was finally proven innocent. Amelia was still waiting for that miracle.

She sighed again, her chest struggling to rise beneath the weight of Buck's body. Amelia nestled her cheek against her companion's, closing her eyes and listening to the sound of his steady breathing as he dreamed quietly. She wanted to savor every moment of the morning.

Buck slept for half an hour, bringing himself to consciousness slowly. He sensed Amelia's presence before he was actually physically aware of it. There was a smile on his lips when he opened his eyes.

"Morning," Amelia whispered as she nuzzled him behind the ear with the tip of her nose.

Buck inhaled slowly, pulling her arms closer around him and snuggling against her. His eyes closed again while he reveled in the moment.

Slowly, the two lovers drifted back to the reality of the day and began to stir from their comfort. Buck shifted so he could look into Amelia's eyes, and his hand moved up to stroke her long, thick hair. He smiled at her dreamily for several moments, with her returning the attention, and when he finally spoke, his words were filled with sincerity.

"I think I love you."

Amelia's eyes widened only a bit, then she smiled sadly and shook her head in disagreement. "You only think that because I'm leaving. You always have rotten timing."

Buck's countenance sagged and he sat up on the couch, turning to place his feet on the floor. Amelia waited a minute then reached for his hand.

As she entwined her fingers with his, Buck said quietly, "I know you're a good cop, an' you're probably the best cop for this job, but it doesn't keep me from worryin'."

Amelia whispered, "I know," bringing his fingers to her lips.

Buck turned toward her and said, "There's gotta be a way to monitor you in the club."

Amelia shook her head and dropped Buck's hand to her lap, "There's not. They search every employee daily, and they keep close tabs on the patrons. If we even had a chance meeting with one of you, they'd be onto us for sure. It's just impossible to keep in touch with you guys. You're gonna have to trust us. And stay close."

Buck nodded, dropping his eyes and staring into the space before him. Amelia studied his silence then leaned forward and kissed his cheek. She placed her forehead against him and closed her eyes, savoring the closeness.

In a whisper, she said, "I'll be fine. Ezra will be with me the whole time. The only time I'll be alone is in my apartment, and the guys are monitoring that round the clock. If anybody gets suspicious of me, they'll see it. We'll know, and I'll get out of there." When Buck didn't seem comforted, she added, "Don't worry so much. I can take care of myself." She fought the impertinence that threatened to surface in her words.

Buck pulled away from her suddenly and stood up, emphatically replying, "I know you can take care of yourself in a normal situation, but this one's different. I've seen the best cops get taken down, even when they did everything right." His voice dropped slightly when he added, "And you're not the best."

Surprised by the emotion in his voice, Amelia stared at Buck, intently searching his eyes. She noticed that he avoided hers. Irritation welled up within her and she angrily replied, "Are you sure it's my safety you're worried about?" She paused for effect, waiting until he finally looked at her. "Or maybe you really don't trust me like you say."

Buck's lack of immediate denial prompted Amelia to look away, her temper beginning to flare. She crossed the room to a window, facing away from Buck as she attempted to regain control. She knew she should hold her tongue but her words tumbled out before she could stop them. Months of frustration spilled forth.

Abruptly turning back around, she spat out, "That's really what this is about, isn't it? That's what it's always been about. You don't trust me. You don't trust me at all! All these months I've been buying into your crap about why we shouldn't be seen together...believing you when you said you didn't want to deal with Chris...and it was really always about me, wasn't it? You don't want the scrutiny that comes with being involved with a crooked cop. That's it, isn't it? It's not about Chris Larabee. It's not even about our jobs. It's about me being thought dirty, and you not wanting anyone to know you'd associate with something like that." Her voice continued to rise as she spoke, "I can't believe I've been so stupid all this time!"

As Buck watched Amelia rant before him, as he listened to her accusations and frustrations, he felt his jaw tighten and his fists clench in an attempt to control his own temper. When she finished railing him, he chose his words carefully.

Quietly, but very firmly, he said, "You're wrong. I do trust you. But you take too many risks. An' there's a whole lot goin' against you in this case, Amelia. I've seen better cops than you get sucked under, and I really don't wanna see that happen to you."

She looked back at him, her eyes still ablaze, but forced herself to remain calm as she edgily replied, "I can handle it. I've been working this case for three years, and I've been in these clubs for months. If I couldn't handle it, they'd have taken me out a long time ago."

Buck and Amelia were squared off, each studying the other's resolve, until Buck finally gave in to his anger and said snidely, "Then you go and do this job. An' you take all the risks you want." He stepped toward her until he was staring down at her, then continued, poking a finger at her as he spoke, "But you remember this. When no one else believed you were on the straight, when everybody wrote you off, I stood up for you. Nobody else did. Not even Chris. I'm the reason you still have a job on the force. So, don't you ever accuse me of not backing you up. An' my not goin' out in public with you has nothing to do with your job or any of those rumors about you. It has everything to do with me an' my friendship with Chris, and really nothin' at all to do with you. Don't you ever lay that crap on me again, Amelia."

The color drained from Amelia's face. She had no response. She simply watched Buck's face turned redder and redder as the anger in his spirit shot through his words. During the silence following his speech, they stared at each other a very long time before Buck regained composure and quietly said, "Maybe I'm not in love with you...but if anything happens to ya...it'll kill me."

Amelia felt the impact of his statement slam onto her shoulders, and she found it hard to catch a breath. She stood looking up at him only inches away, until the silence became too awkward for either of them. Tears finally trickled down Amelia's cheeks, causing Buck's eyes to fill with tears of his own. She stepped toward him and wrapped her arms around his shoulders, hugging him tightly. His embrace was only half as strong.

When she pulled away, she looked deep into his eyes and said, "You can't get rid of me that easy, Wilmington. You'd better be here when I bust this guy."

Buck showed no reaction, so Amelia added, "Got that, agent?" Buck nodded, trying to force a little enthusiasm, but it fell dead between them.

Amelia slid her hands down the sides of his face and pulled him close. Her kiss was tender and determined, yet Buck waited a moment before responding. Passion finally overcame him, coupled with a fair amount of heartache, and he pressed his lips against hers urgently, his mouth aggressively searching hers. Amelia was the first to pull away, breathless but aching for more. Yet as she looked into Buck's eyes, she knew their time was finished.

Amelia stepped back slowly, her hands drifting down Buck's arms as she did, until they stood completely apart. They looked at each other sadly for a moment then Amelia tried to smile.

"I need a shower," she said, her voice raspy from unshed tears.

Buck nodded but did not speak. He stayed in the living room as she prepared for her shower, and when Amelia came out of the bathroom afterward, he was already gone.

+ + + + + + +

Josie was barely out of bed when the doorbell sounded two quick rings. She pulled her silk robe around her and lazily shuffled to the door. A bouquet of pink roses filled her doorway when she opened the front door.

Smiling, she said, "Nice try."

Lowering the roses, Ezra peered sheepishly over them and drawled, "Not quite adequate?"

Josie's eyebrows raised and she looked toward the ceiling as she considered the situation. Before she could respond, Ezra dropped the bouquet to his side and lifted a white bakery box before her.

"I offer breakfast, as well." He smiled brightly, if somewhat falsely, at her and waited for her decision.

She kept her smile masked as she replied, "Blueberry muffins, no doubt."

Ezra slowly shook his head, a slow smile spreading across his face, and he said, "Apricot kolaches."

Josie's face brightened, and she snatched the box of pastries from his hand. "Oh, you do know how to work me, don't you?"

Ezra smiled and entered her home, following her to the kitchen and retrieving a vase from the cabinet below the microwave, then arranging the roses within. Josie took two plates from another cabinet and carried the kolaches with her to the dining table while Ezra set the vase of flowers near the table's edge. He sat in his usual chair as she returned to the kitchen to pour him a strong cup of coffee, whether he wanted it or not. He smiled self-consciously when she placed it before him.

"This is not necessary, you realize. I'm much better this morning," he said, drinking from the steaming cup anyway.

She shrugged and replied, "Won't hurt to be even better than that."

He chuckled softly and didn't argue. She sat in the chair next to him, and they each took a kolache from the box between them and savored the first few bites in silence. Josie closed her eyes and smiled as she chewed. Ezra laughed at her childish nature.

After a moment, he off-handedly asked, "So, it's cowboys these days, is it?"

Josie opened her eyes and glared at her friend. "You couldn't let it go one morning, could you?"

Ezra shrugged slightly and looked at the table before him. "It's just somewhat surprising, Josephine. He doesn't seem your type."

Josie became defensive and looked at Ezra evenly when she replied, "I didn't realize I had a type. There certainly haven't been enough men in my life to develop a type, now have there?"

Ezra stared at her but didn't respond. Eventually, she broke the look between them and stared at the table. Her appetite had disappeared. When she continued to gaze down at her plate, Ezra sighed and reached over to gently lift her chin with his fingers.

Quietly, he said, "I'm sorry. I was completely out of line. I didn't realize you truly cared for him."

Josie smiled ruefully, "I don't know that I do, all that much. It's just really nice to have someone pay attention to me. That doesn't happen often, ya know."

Ezra's eyes reflected her sadness and he said quietly, "I know that."

Josie's eyes closed tightly and she shook her head a bit to fight the tears welling up in her throat. She breathed deeply several times then opened her eyes and looked into her friend's compassionate gaze.

"I don't know what'll happen with Vin. I honestly haven't a clue. But if I can get a tiny bit of enjoyment from someone who just wants to be with me, then I'm gonna take it. And if an attractive and decent guy wants to treat me special and take me places, then I'm not gonna say no." She grinned slightly as she added, "How many street urchins get a chance like that?"

Ezra smirked at her and said, "You are so far beyond that pitiful little street urchin, Miss Josephine. And you deserve to be treated royally. Don't you ever forget that."

Josie smiled shyly and drew her shoulders up to her ears, an action that made her look sixteen years old. Ezra placed a hand on top of hers and squeezed it affectionately. She returned the squeeze, and they sat quietly for several minutes. Soon, their breakfast fell into its normal routine, with the daily newspaper being shared between the two while their food became an afterthought. Josie found herself sneaking glances at Ezra occasionally, each time being thankful for all he had done for her during their friendship. A smile fixed itself to her lips and remained there during their meal.

As it neared time for Ezra to depart, he reminded Josie that he would be unavailable for several days.

"I will do my best to get in touch with you when I can, but it may be more than a week. I suppose, if there is an emergency, you should contact Chris Larabee at the bureau."

Josie nodded but her eyes were fixed on Ezra's. "You're worried about this one."

Ezra waved a hand in the air and started, "Oh, I worry about all..." but his voice trailed off, and he looked at his friend and sighed. "Yes. I'm especially worried about this case."

Josie placed her palm against his cheek and leaned closer. When Ezra closed his eyes and sighed again, Josie moved from her chair and put her arms around him, pulling him against her chest and embracing him tightly. Her heart filled with emotion but she refused to let it show through in her countenance. She felt Ezra's arms tighten around her waist and swallowed the tears in her throat, resting her head on top of his.

When he began to relax, Josie pulled back slightly and kissed the top of his head, then sank to her knees before him and held his hands as she looked up into his eyes. Unshed tears caused them to sparkle a bright green.

Sadly, Josie said, "Why do you continue to do this?"

Ezra replied, "It's my chosen profession, Josephine."

She quickly answered, "Which you hate."

Ezra sighed, "I do hate some of it, yes. But it's not always this difficult. Much of the time, I rather enjoy myself. This case, however, is difficult." After a short pause, he added, "And especially dangerous, I'm afraid."

He looked directly into Josie's eyes and saw that he had not sparked fear, for which he was grateful, but rather compassion. He attempted a weak smile, then pulled her hands to his lips and brushed them with a kiss. She sighed and shook her head slowly.

They looked into each other's eyes for a long minute, then Ezra stood and pulled Josie to her feet. He embraced her again, tightening his arms until he could pull her no closer. She imitated the action, and they stood quietly for several moments. When they parted, Ezra looked into Josie's eyes one last time.

"Take care of yourself while I'm away. Promise me."

She nodded, then said, "You be careful. And don't be stupid."

Ezra smiled. "Easier said than done, I'm afraid."

Josie attempted a stern look. "I realize that. Try very hard."

Ezra replied, "I will do my very best to act in an intelligent manner."

She smiled and said, "That's all I can ask."

They embraced once more, and Ezra placed a sweet kiss on her lips before he turned to leave. As he rounded the table, he leaned over and inhaled deeply the fragrant bouquet of roses, closing his eyes as he absorbed the aroma. A smile came to his lips as he stood again and moved to the front door.

As he stepped into the open doorway, Josie called, "Hey!" When Ezra turned to her, she said with a grin, "I love you."

Ezra always smiled when she said it, knowing that she didn't offer it to many. And he replied, "And I love you, darlin'." Then he added, "You be good."

Josie grinned brightly and lifted her chin high as she responded cheerfully, "Always!"

Ezra rolled his eyes and said, sarcastically, "Right," then stepped outside and closed the door behind him.

Josie stood silently for a minute more, then pushed back her anxieties and sighed. She had learned through the years not to focus on this side of Ezra's job, and she wouldn't begin now. She forced herself to continue with the normal routine of her day, remembering with a smile that Vin had promised to call her. With a happy nod, Josie decided it was truly a beautiful day.

+ + + + + + +

Vin smiled when he saw Chris Larabee's bewildered expression as he entered his office in the federal building. Chris's eyebrows rose at the sight of his best friend making himself so comfortable at his desk, leaning back in his chair with outstretched legs propped onto the corner of the desk. Chris looked at Vin a moment, then turned toward the door and pointedly looked at the nameplate which read "Chris Larabee." He turned back to Vin with an expression of mock irritation. Vin chuckled slightly at his friend and supervisor but didn't bother to hurry through his phone conversation. Chris sighed in defeat and sat in the chair opposite his own desk, listening in on Vin's conversation.

"Trust me," Vin was saying, "You'll remember how to do it. It's just like ridin' a horse. Ya don't forget, ya just need to be reminded." Vin paused while he listened, then said, "I'm sure! Don't worry. Just get yer dancin' boots on, an' I'll pick ya up at seven."

Again, Chris's eyebrows shot up in interest as he reacted to Vin's conversation. Vin smirked at his partner, knowing Chris was giving him a hard time.

Vin smiled broadly and said into the phone, "Okay, I'll see ya then. Bye." He hung up Chris's phone then leaned further back in Chris's comfortable oversized chair, clasped his hands across his chest and smiled at the ceiling.

"I could get pretty used to this," Vin said, the grin on his face growing wider.

Chris shook his head then stood and walked around the desk. When he reached the corner, he swatted at Vin's feet and knocked them to the floor with a thud. Vin laughed and stood from the chair, passing his friend with "Mornin', pard."

Chris grumbled, "Mornin', Mister Larabee," then glanced back at Vin with a teasing smile. Vin chuckled and continued to the open door. Just as he was exiting, Chris said not-so-casually, "Takin' Josie out again?"

Vin looked back at his friend and grinned shyly, "Yeah. Takin' her to that club Rain always takes Nathan to."

Chris nodded then looked down at a stack of unfinished paperwork on his desk. Vin was turning to leave again when Chris said, "It's about time."

Vin stopped and glared back at his partner. Then, with a sly grin, he said, "Ya sound just like Mary Travis." Vin raised his eyebrows and added, "Wonder why that is?"

Chris's mouth dropped open slightly in surprise, and when he couldn't think of a quick response, Vin chuckled and walked into the outer office. When he recovered a moment later, Chris mumbled to himself as he cleared off a work space, "Sound just like Mary," then added with a snort, "Not in this lifetime."

Vin was still chuckling to himself when Ezra entered their office. A sly smile played on Vin's lips, and he waited until Ezra was just about to pass his desk before he spoke.

"Feelin' alright, Ezra?"

Ezra stopped and turned to look directly at his colleague. "Actually, Mister Tanner, I am feeling quite fine this morning. And you?"

Vin grinned mischievously and replied, "I'd say life's treatin' me pretty good."

Ezra studied his colleague for a moment, his eyes narrowing to small green slits, then he turned and pulled a chair close to Vin's desk so he could sit facing the man. Vin turned to look directly at the sharply dressed agent, ready for the confrontation.

Ezra stared into Tanner's eyes and said, "I will not presume to speak for Josephine, but I feel obliged to say this to you."

Vin made a point to place his attention directly on Ezra, his behavior suggesting a challenge.

Ezra lifted his chin and studied Vin's eyes before speaking. "I have not cared for many people in my life, and even fewer have cared for me, so you must understand how important Josephine is to me. And you must also understand that she is not all that you think she is. She is tough and strong, yes. But she holds that shell lightly. And I have seen her crumble from much less than you might expect." He paused and leveled his gaze directly at Vin. "I cannot sit idly while her heart is broken again." He waited another beat, then quietly added, "There aren't many pieces left to pull back together, and I won't be available this time to mend them."

Vin's gaze shifted back and forth between Ezra's eyes, and then in a somewhat perturbed voice, he replied, "I don't plan on hurtin' her, Ezra."

Ezra's eyes saddened slightly when he said, "No one plans it. But it seems to happen, nonetheless."

Vin sat back slightly and looked closely at Ezra. "Whaddya want me to say?"

Ezra sighed and looked away from Vin a moment, then responded, "Protect her...protect her while I am away."

Vin's shoulders relaxed and he looked down at his hands in thought. Ezra waited quietly, increasingly uncomfortable but determined to see this conversation through. Vin finally looked up, his expression much gentler.

A slight twinkle shone in his blue eyes as Vin said, "Just when I think I got ya pegged, ya go an' show some heart." Vin shook his head, a grin appearing on his face as he watched Ezra.

Ezra looked away, but responded, "Yes, well, wait a while. It usually lasts but a moment."

Vin grinned at his friend's self-deprecation. But he knew he'd seen the real Ezra Standish, and he enjoyed the moment of truth.

Ezra stood and replaced the borrowed chair, Vin's eyes still focused on him, then turned once more to Vin and said very softly, "Thank you."

Vin grinned and proclaimed in his slow, southern drawl, "No problem."

Ezra sighed and rolled his eyes, then moved to his own desk. Vin chuckled to himself and turned to get to work.

Chapter Four

Amelia walked the ten blocks from her home, called a cab from the pay phone outside a run-down gas station, then went into the dirty restroom at the back of the building to inspect her appearance. Appropriately bedraggled. She smiled at her worn jeans and rumpled blouse, then ran a hand over her slightly messy hair before exiting the room. She stood on the street corner to await the ride that would take her across the city to her apartment in Capitol Hill.

Amelia forced herself to let go of the morning, pushing Buck into the back of her mind. It wouldn't do her any good to have distractions. Buck would wait.

"Or not," she snorted. She couldn't think about it now. Buck would have to deal with his own issues, and they could figure it out when the case was closed. Right now, she said to herself, you've got a job to do.

She soon settled into the back of the dingy cab and willed herself into the person of Molly Engle.

+ + + + + + +

When Amelia stepped from the cab outside her ramshackle apartment building on seedy East Colfax Avenue, Masen Carlisle sprang forward in his chair and declared, "Showtime!"

Two more surveillance technicians moved toward the windows of their rented apartment across the street from Amelia's building and watched as their fellow officer climbed her stoop and entered.

Masen mumbled, "She looks a little worse every day."

With a crooked smile, Chase Donovan said, "She looks just fine to me," prompting Masen to roll his eyes.

When Amelia disappeared from sight, each man unconsciously began to hold his breath. Two minutes passed. Three minutes. As the fourth minute approached, Chase began to fidget. He first ran a hand through his short, spiky red hair. Then he ran a frustrated hand down the middle of his face. He placed both hands on the edge of the table that held their equipment, and his fingers started tapping lightly. A second later, he began a rhythmic drumming sound. Masen glanced over at his partner, trying to contain his annoyance, and waited for the next phase of Chase's impatience.

Chase's knees began to bounce slightly, but just before he started to pace the room, the shades of Amelia's apartment were raised suddenly to let the light inside. Chase exhaled loudly.

"I swear," he said with some agitation, "she does that on purpose. She always drags it out a little longer each time. All I want is one signal! Just one sign that tells me everything's okay. That's it. Is that too much to ask of her? No! That's all she has to do. Just raise the shades to tell me it's all okay. That's it! But does she do that? No. She waits! She thumbs through the mail...she takes off her shoes...she feeds the cat. Anything but give me a signal."

Masen replied calmly, "She doesn't have a cat."

Chase shot back, "That's irrelevant! The point is, she waits." He looked across into Amelia's window, and grumbled, "She's gonna give me a freakin' heart attack!"

When Chase paused from his tirade, Masen replied, "If you didn't annoy her so much, she'd be nicer to you, ya know. It's all your fault. She's always really nice to me. Isn't she nice to you, Reg?"

Their third partner nodded silently, a slight smile lighting his eyes.

Chase looked from Reg to Masen then sneered, "Just watch your little monitors there. I'm not talking to you," then sat beside him and placed a headset over his ears.

Amelia appeared on one of Masen's screens, smiling sweetly at the camera that was housed in the smoke alarm above her head, and through their headsets, they heard, "Hey there, boys. D'ya miss me?" She smiled one more huge smile, batted her eyelashes at them, then laughed and walked away from the hidden camera.

Chase smiled despite his irritation and sighed dreamily, "Always, my love. Always."

Masen looked at Reg Petersen and rolled his eyes again. Reg chuckled and returned to studying the streets below.

Amelia moved around her apartment, gathering dirty laundry and straightening up. Occasionally she would direct an offhand remark to the boys across the street, but for the most part she was lost in thought. She had just over an hour before she had to leave for the club, and she didn't feel like getting involved in any projects. Once her menial work was completed, Amelia stood in the center of her living room and looked around her. With a slight shrug, she finally just collapsed onto the ratty couch and stretched out her 5' 10" frame. Her mind fought to stay focused.

Chase smiled to himself as he watched her. When he sighed loudly again, Masen smacked him on the back of the head and said, "Get over it!" Chase just beamed.

A few seconds later, Amelia's image disappeared, the monitor going black, causing a slight panic erupted in Chase Donovan.

"Mase!" he exclaimed, "Get her back!"

Masen frantically began checking his equipment, protesting the whole time that it wasn't his fault. Chase kept pressing and pressing, himself getting nervous at the possible loss of their only camera, but his protestations only served to create a panic in Masen. When Chase threw off his headset and began to "help" Masen, the two young men started to argue. Finally, Masen determined that the equipment was fine, and the problem lay in the camera itself.

Looking dejectedly across the street, he said, "We're blind. We lost video."

Chase stared at the blank monitor screen, put his headset to his ear and sighed in relief when he still heard Amelia's voice. At least the audio was fine. Shrugging his shoulders, he tossed the headset onto the table and moved to the cases of equipment across the room.

Pulling out another tiny camera, Chase sarcastically remarked, "You'd think the wealthiest government in the world would at least be able to afford decent equipment. Wouldn't you think?"

"What are you doing?" Masen asked, casting a worried glance at Reg.

Pulling on a set of coveralls, Chase replied, "I'm going over there to fix it, what else?"

Reg grinned, then chuckled again and turned back toward the street.

Masen stared at his partner a minute then shook his head and mumbled, "You're hopeless."

Chase zipped up the coveralls which declared him to be an employee of Roto-Rooter, then smiled mischievously at Masen and departed the room. Masen continued to shake his head as he returned to his post.

Under his breath, he repeated, "Hopeless." Reg's smile widened to cover his face.

+ + + + + + +

The knock at her door surprised Amelia, but she smiled when she saw Chase through the peephole. She feigned her best disinterested face while opening the door.

"Uh...ma'am," Chase began, in a falsified redneck drawl, "Ya got problems with yer john?"

Amelia's eyes widened in astonishment and she bit her lip to keep from bursting into laughter. After a moment, she finally managed to say in a perturbed voice, "Yes, as a matter of fact, I do. What took you so long?"

As Chase walked into the apartment, he replied, drawing out each syllable as he spoke, "We-e-ell...see...we had this over-flo-ow at the high schoo-ol...and...we-e-ell..them kids just cain't manage without their johns, ya know."

Amelia quickly shut the door and covered her mouth with a hand to keep her laughter in check. Chase smiled widely and waited for her to regain composure.

He pointed to the smoke alarm in the center of the living room and quietly said, "Lost it." Amelia nodded in understanding, then helped Chase move the coffee table under the alarm to stand on while he replaced the camera. In a matter of seconds, he was done.

Into a small radio, Chase asked, "What do you see?"

A static-filled reply came back, "I see too much of you. Step back."

Chase smirked into the camera, then moved closer so that Masen's monitor was filled from edge to edge with only Chase's nostrils.

Masen's garbled voice came over the radio, "Beautiful. Now get back."

Chase smiled and stepped aside, then adjusted the camera according to Masen's direction. Finally completed, he replaced the covering to the alarm and returned the table to its former position. Then he turned to Amelia and stood within inches of her.

Amelia looked into his young face and asked, "Anything else?"

His baby blue eyes lit up and a wicked smile appeared on his lips. Looking out of the corner of his eye, Chase said, "Well...since you asked..."

Amelia turned him around by the shoulders and shoved him toward the door, saying, "Actually, I didn't. You just imagined it. Goodbye, Chase."

He began to laugh but Amelia's hand clamped over his lips before a sound was emitted. Dramatically, Chase rolled his eyes back into his head and swooned for her benefit, taking her hand and attempting to kiss the palm. She pulled away just in time and eyed him scornfully. Chase simply smiled with a twinkle in his eyes.

She shoved him again, saying, "Goodbye, Chase."

Just before she opened the door, he turned around and said, "Did I mention that I missed you?"

Amelia gave him a warning look then rolled her eyes and opened the door. "Goodbye, Chase."

Chase laughed again and exited, waiting until she locked the door before barreling down the stairs like a teenager. Amelia could hear him stomping for two flights. She looked up into the newly installed camera and shook her head ruefully at the other agents keeping watch.

When Chase arrived back at the surveillance room, Masen waited until he returned to his post before he said, "Loser."

Chase retorted, "Shut up. This has nothing to do with you."

Masen looked over at the eternally silent Reg and replied to Chase, "Has nothing to do with you either, but you don't seem to get that, buddy."

Chase glared at his partner and returned his focus to the woman across the street.

+ + + + + + +

The flight attendant asked Ezra one last time if he would like a drink. Ezra wanted a drink. He really wanted a drink. But he declined and returned his attention to the clouds outside his window. It was always amazing to him how much could actually be accomplished in one day, and this day proved it. Since his usual early morning breakfast with Josie, he had firmed up some details with Chris, been discreetly shuttled to a remote air strip outside Denver, flown out to California where he met with one of his weapons dealers and renegotiated their deal, and now was flying back into Denver to meet with the man they believed could take him into El Invisible's organization.

Ezra sighed deeply. Is this all worth it? he thought to himself. With another sigh, and a thought of Josie, he had to answer yes. Whatever it took to rid the streets of the garbage that sucked in young kids, that is what Ezra would do. Not that he was a hero, or even wanted to be, but he'd come to see the effects of the violence that had taken over the cities, and he couldn't stand by and watch innocent people suffer. He continued to watch as Denver drew closer and closer, until finally the pilot landed at Covoran Air Strip, home to the Covoran Family's fleet of aircraft, and Ezra was finally free to regain his land legs.

He was met at the airport by his contact of four months, Jerome Pitts, a slimy-looking man with the stereotypical face of an underworld crime boss. Only his clothes sat at odds with his countenance. Loud Hawaiian shirts and baggy trousers; sneakers on his feet. Every time he saw the man, Ezra wanted to laugh.

Jerome pumped Ezra's hand wildly and smiled a toothy smile saying, "So good to see ya again, Mister Sullivan. How long will ya be here this time?"

Exhibiting an appropriate arrogance, Ezra placed dark shades over his eyes and lifted his head high, quietly responding, "We shall see."

Jerome nodded and rushed forward to take Ezra's small leather bag from the attendant unloading the plane. Ezra casually intercepted the bag before it reached Jerome's hands, giving him a cold, diminishing stare at the same time. Jerome quickly stepped away and waited for Ezra to walk in front of him. Ezra raised his nose into the air and proceeded across the lot of the private airport. Jerome followed closely, but not too closely, and he continued to talk incessantly. In four months, Ezra had learned to drown out most of the man's words.

Jerome's hired driver wove through the city toward the downtown area. Ezra pretended to only casually glance out the windows from time to time, but he was really taking in every detail. When they passed Radissi's Restaurant and Club, Ezra noted again its location and surrounding scenery.

"I would like to delay our business tonight, Mister Pitts, if you don't mind. I believe I would rather enjoy seeing a little more of your fair city."

Jerome's eyes lit up and he replied, "Say no more! I know exactly the place! Gots great music, great food, and the waitresses..." A lascivious look appeared on his round face as he continued, "They'll do anything ya want, Mister Sullivan." He elbowed Ezra with a sleazy smile and repeated, "And I do mean anything."

Ezra forced himself to smile when he responded, "Sounds delightful, Mister Pitts." Leaning slightly forward, Ezra called, "Driver, if you will take me to my hotel." The driver nodded, and Ezra sank back into his seat again. He quickly tuned out Jerome's voice for the duration of the drive.

+ + + + + + +

Amelia stepped through the door of Covo's and waited patiently as she was searched for weapons, wires and anything the doorman didn't approve of. He smiled at her as he finished and said, "Okay, Molly. You're good."

Amelia gave him a saccharine smile and chirped, "I coulda told ya that, Paddy! But must we do this every night?"

Paddy nodded slightly and replied, "Boss's orders. You know the rules." Smiling at her, he added, "But when ya make it to the big club, ya won't have to do it anymore. Mister Kepplen keeps a tight rein on his customers. He doesn't let anyone inside that he doesn't trust."

Amelia's smile widened. "Well then...I guess I'd better get after it. I sure don't wanna miss a promotion to the top, do I?" Paddy shook his head and grinned at her as she moved into the darkened restaurant. She scanned the area quickly then walked to the bar and sat beside her fellow waitress and friend, Willa. Within two minutes, Willa was recounting her latest boyfriend story into Amelia's patient ears while the remainder of the employees began to busy themselves for the club's opening in half an hour. Amelia listened carefully to Willa's woes, knowing that her boyfriend was a smaller player in the major clubs. Amelia felt her best way into those clubs would be through Willa.

Neither of the women noticed Covo's manager enter the room. He moved directly to the bar and stood between them.

Franklin Prince studied the two women with pride, then pulled the Cuban cigar from between his lips and bellowed, "Ladies, it seems you have won favor with Edward Kepplen. You're moving up."

Amelia and Willa smiled brightly and thanked their now-former boss. There was a car waiting to take them immediately to Radissi's in order to work that night's dinner crowd. As they gathered their belongings, Willa boasted to her friend, "See, I told ya my Denny could get us in. An' he has!" Amelia responded with an excited smile, but her stomach tightened as she realized this was the beginning of the final phase.

+ + + + + + +

Josie attempted to mask her surprise at the Harley sitting in her driveway. Vin caught her look and anxiously asked, “Problem?”

Josie stared a second longer then shook her head and looked up at Vin, saying, “No. No problem. Just surprised to see the bike, I guess. I didn’t know you had one.”

Vin smiled proudly and replied, “Yep. An’ I heard ya liked ‘em, so I thought ya might wanna ride tonight.”

Josie’s eyes clouded over, and she looked back at the bike. Through slightly clenched teeth, she said, “Oh. Yeah. Sure.”

Vin handed her a brand new helmet, explaining that he couldn’t find the spare he had once, then straddled the bike and waited for Josie to settle in behind him. Taking off quickly, they sped through the streets and out of her neighborhood, annoying a couple of neighbors in the departure. Josie remained silent during the ride.

Just over halfway to their destination, Vin slowed and pulled to the curb. The roads were blocked with an ambulance, a coroner’s van and several patrol cars. Taking off his helmet, Vin surveyed the scene, then slid off the bike and told Josie he’d be right back. Josie climbed off the bike also and edged closer to the crowd to learn what the situation was.

From the conversations she heard, Josie determined that a small shootout had occurred in front of a house on the corner of the street. Another gang-related shooting. The onlookers lamented the state of youth in their community and in the country, then began to discuss the increasing rate of crime in their neighborhood alone. Josie moved away from the crowd and positioned herself on the curb next to Vin’s bike. She could see the body of one of the victims, a teenage boy, being photographed and inspected by detectives. Every so often she caught glimpses of Vin as he talked with various officers within the confines of police tape. He spent twenty minutes gathering information, then walked slowly back to where Josie was waiting.

He sat beside her on the curb and said, “Pretty gruesome. Sorry ya had to see this.”

Josie’s attention seemed to be focused in the general direction of the crime scene, but her voice was flat when she shrugged, “It’s alright. Part of the job.”

Vin glanced at her from the corner of his eye, a little surprised at her lack of emotion. She was watching the coroner’s people bag the body. Vin looked down a moment, then reached for her hand and stood, pulling her to her feet.

“Let’s go,” he said, and stepped around the motorcycle to climb on once again. He moved quickly through the neighborhood, wanting desperately to put this scene behind them so they could enjoy the evening still.

When they arrived at Lucky’s Dance Hall, the party had already begun. Josie’s face brightened at the sound of country music bursting through the walls and spilling into the parking lot.

She chuckled, “Now this brings back memories.” Vin grinned approvingly and followed her inside the club.

They stood inside the door a moment and scanned the room, then Vin pointed over her shoulder to the table seating his friends. They quickly joined them, though Josie was surprised to see her cousin seated amongst the group.

Sitting beside Mary, Josie said, “I didn’t know you were coming here tonight.”

Mary nodded toward a young girl across the table and replied, “Casey invited me. Well, encouraged me, really. She said a group of you were meeting here.”

Josie looked across the table at the young girl with long dark hair and a quick smile. Casey Wells cheerfully said, “Hi! I’m glad to finally meet ya!”

Vin was standing beside Josie, and he began introductions around the table. Looking to his right, he said, “You know Nathan,” and with Josie’s acknowledgment, “this is Rain, and, of course, Casey. Casey and JD go out sometimes.”

Casey smiled sheepishly and added, “Sometimes. When I can get him away from his job or that motorcycle of his.”

Mary chimed in, “Casey goes to the University. And she’s actually considering journalism as a career.” Mary pointedly looked at her cousin, and Josie smirked.

Casey said, “Mary told me ya didn’t think journalism was a good profession.”

Josie shrugged, “I just think the media isn’t really trustworthy. That’s all.”

Casey opened her mouth to reply but Mary jumped in first, “And that’s all we’re going to say about that tonight. I didn’t come here to get into a political discussion. Let’s save that for lunch someday. Okay?” She looked directly at Josie, who shrugged again and looked away.

Vin leaned close to Josie’s ear and said, “I’m goin’ to the bar. Ya want somethin’?” Josie declined, but Vin took a few orders from the others around the table and excused himself.

Josie looked at Rain and said, “Rain, is it? Your parents must’ve been flower children.”

Both Rain and Nathan smiled brightly, and Rain answered, “My mother was a...free spirit. My father, not so free, but very devoted to my mother. It’s actually Rainbow, but I shortened it when I was a teenager.” Melodramatically, she added, “A dark and gloomy period of my life.” She chuckled, and Nathan added, “We’ve all had ‘em.” All those around the table nodded in agreement.

Nathan turned to Josie and said, “Vin said y’all went to a rodeo last night. Maybe it’s just me, but ya don’t look like the rodeo type.” Doubtful, he added, “D’ya have a good time?”

Josie nodded, “Yeah, we did. I hadn’t been to one since I was a kid, but it was fun. We had a good time.” She only offered a little and shifted her attention away in order to close the subject.

Nathan picked up on the gesture, not sure what to make of it, and looked at Rain. She shrugged slightly then tugged on his arm and got him to dance with her. Within moments they were scooting around the dance floor in one fluid motion. Casey sighed, wishing she had a partner of her own. She turned to watch the dancers but decided to make a trip to the bar instead. The minute she was gone, Mary’s questions started tumbling forth.

“So,” she said nonchalantly, “you had a good time?”

Josie gritted her teeth slightly, her eyes narrowing a bit, and said gruffly, “Yes. We had a good time.”

Mary said, “Good. You seem to be getting along well.” Mary’s attention shifted to Vin standing at the bar.

Josie followed her gaze, then bitterly said to her cousin, “He’s doing all the right things, that’s for sure. In fact,” she sneered, “he seems to know exactly what to do and what to wear and what vehicle to drive.” She looked directly at Mary and added, “Like someone told him everything I used to like to do. Like someone told him he needed to impress me with specific things.”

Mary attempted a surprised face and shrugged, “Yeah? Hmm...”

Josie was finished playing the game. “When are you gonna stop interfering? I don’t need to be impressed. And I certainly don’t need your help with my social life.”

Mary dropped the false sweetness and retorted, “What social life?! You don’t go anywhere, or do anything. The only time you go out is with Ezra.” She made a face of annoyance. “And there’s nothing to that.”

Josie’s eyes flared as she attempted to keep her voice down, “I’ve gotten very used to the life I have. And I don’t need you telling me how to make it better.” She paused a second then quietly stressed, “I didn’t grow up privileged and beautiful, like you, and I’ve learned how to accept that. I’ve learned how to be comfortable with who I am, and I’m doing just fine without men in my life. You start minding your own business. And tell Vin you don’t need him anymore.”

Josie stood from the table just as Vin reached it. As he was setting down the drinks, Josie rushed by and hissed, “You’re off the hook,” then proceeded toward the back exit of the club. Vin’s brow creased in confusion, and he looked at Mary for an explanation. She had her head down, fingers massaging her forehead in frustration.

Sighing, Mary said, “She’s mad at me for asking you to take her out. She thinks we’ve been playing a game.”

Vin’s eyes dropped slightly and he nodded, his expression growing grim. Then he followed the path Josie had taken out of the back door. He found her sitting on a brick wall behind the building, off in the shadows and away from the door.

Slowly, he strolled toward her, waited a moment, then jumped up to sit several inches from her on the wall. He didn’t speak. Finally, Josie had to.

“I know Mary asked you to take me out. You don’t have to anymore.”

Vin took a deep breath and replied, “I don’t do anything I don’t wanna do. No matter who asks me.”

Josie turned to look at him, her uncertainty obvious, until Vin met her glance and waited for her to respond. She simply looked away again and sighed.

Vin watched her closely. After a moment, she heard him chuckle but forced herself not to look at him. He finally said, “I can see why you an’ Ezra get along so good.” Josie did look at him this time. He grinned at her and said, “Ya have the same mood swings.”

Josie felt her face relax, despite her anger, and she grinned with Vin. Nodding, she said, “Yeah, we do.” She began to relax a little more.

Vin quietly said, “Josie...Mary didn’t get me to take ya out. I was already plannin' it. She just told me some things ya liked to do. I guess I wanted to make sure ya'd enjoy goin' out with me. I asked ya ‘cause I wanted to ask ya. It jus’ takes me a long time to get around to stuff like this.”

Josie’s irritation softened and her shoulders sagged. She was embarrassed at her behavior and uncomfortable with the conversation. When Vin reached for her hand, she jumped slightly at his touch. He ignored it and closed his fingers around hers.

He said, “I don’t want this to be the last time I see ya.”

Josie turned to look at him and her heart leapt with the sincerity she saw in his eyes. She knew her resistance had diminished. Her fingers moved between Vin’s, and she tightened her grasp.

Nodding, she said, “Me either.”

He smiled, looking at her with a twinkle in his bright blue eyes. Then, just as quickly as it came, the twinkle dissolved and Vin’s face grew serious. Josie’s eyes registered surprise.

Cautiously, Vin began, “I need to know somethin’. I wanna start on the right foot here, but I need to know about you an’ Ezra.”

Josie stiffened and withdrew her hand from his. When she didn’t respond, Vin pressed her gently.

“I know ya don’t like talkin’ ‘bout yer past. An’ I really understand that. Really understand that. But I gotta know. I want to know.”

In a flat, irritated voice, Josie replied, “You don’t want to know this, Vin. Trust me. This is not somethin’ you want to know about me. It’s not pretty. At all.”

Vin ground his teeth and looked at the pavement below them. After a moment, he quietly said, “When I was five, my mom died.” Josie turned in surprise toward him, her eyes fixed on his profile. Vin continued without looking at her. “Didn’t have a father, so they put me in foster homes...until I finally took off. Figured I could take care of myself better’n any of them. An’ I did. My whole life.” He turned to see Josie’s eyes full of sympathy. “I didn’t have it easy, but I did okay. An’ I didn’t get in too much trouble that I couldn’t get out of. Mostly.” He grinned at his last comment. Josie nodded in complete understanding, as he continued, “Been on my own long as I can remember. An’ I’ve done some things I ain’t proud of. But, that’s all behind me, so I don’t worry 'bout it.”

She kept looking at Vin, kept studying his face and remembering the sincerity in his voice. He truly amazed her. When he didn’t continue, she took a deep breath and, with a tender heart, responded to his opening.

“I met Ezra when I was sixteen. He arrested me.” A slight smirk followed her words, and Vin’s eyes showed a bit of surprise. He grinned a little and prodded her to continue. The words came easier now.

“You and I have similar childhoods, I guess. My mom died when I was really small, and my dad died when I was thirteen. That’s when I went to live with Mary’s family, but we didn’t really have much in common. Mary tried to be a friend, but her family was really high society, ya know? Upper class. I didn’t fit in. I mean, I grew up on a farm.” She grinned at Vin, who seemed surprised to know that fact, then continued, “So, I took off from there about a year later and hit the streets. I bet if you go back, you can probably find my face on a milk carton from back then. I actually went back to Texas, but the farm had been sold and I didn’t have anybody to stay with, so I started livin’ on the street. Pretty soon, I was doing anything I could to get by.” She looked pointedly at Vin and repeated, “Anything.”

Vin forced himself to look into her eyes, though his heart was heavy. She continued, “I was strung out on something all the time, and I was working for this guy, stealing for him. We were doing okay for a while, and I thought I was living just fine, ya know? But pretty soon, the money got a little scarce and the weather got colder, and we just couldn’t find enough food for both of us. He decided we needed a better angle.” She paused, looking at her hands, then took a deep breath and said, “He set me up with this old man who liked really young girls.” Josie’s voice wavered slightly, but she finished her statement, “That was my first time experience with sex.” She looked at Vin and added, “I was worth a hundred dollars.”

Vin drew his eyes away and stared at the section of wall between them. He continued to look down as she spoke.

“I took that hundred dollars and got outta there fast. And I’ve never been back. I hitched rides all across the South and finally ended up in Atlanta a couple months later. Broke and desperate. But, see, Atlanta is good for people like me. There’s always something happenin’ in that city. I hooked up with this little group and pretty soon I was back in business. Except now, I was also more experienced. The guy who ran this little group had a pretty good thing going. He sold coke to the people in the neighborhoods, but he never actually delivered it hand to hand. He would set up the buy, then we’d have a drop where they’d leave the money and we’d take the cash and replace it with the product. Worked great! Until the day I got caught picking up the money.”

She twisted her mouth into a smirk and looked at Vin. He regarded her a moment then asked, “Ezra?” She nodded.

“Ezra. He was just this arrogant rookie, and it was dumb luck that he saw me taking that money. He was just comin’ out of a restaurant and there I was. I took off running, and of course he chased me. We ran for probably six blocks before I penned myself into a corner. I had to give up.” She smiled as she remembered, “I didn’t have the money on me though. I stashed it before Ezra caught up to me.” Vin chuckled with her, though his eyes were bewildered.

Josie continued, “They got three of us. And then the guy who showed up for his dope. But they didn’t have any evidence; no cash, no coke, nothing. They had to let us all go. Of course, they tried to scare us while we were being held.” She looked into Vin’s eyes and quietly said, “It worked.

“I’d never been arrested before. Never been in jail. It terrified me, and I was determined to never let it happen again. When they finally released us, Ezra was waiting in a hallway for me. He asked if I had someplace to go.” Josie’s eyes took on a far-off look as she reminisced. “He felt sorry for me, had compassion on me. I remember that I started to blow him off, but something in his eyes told me that he really wanted to help. And no one had ever done that before. Not really. Not of their own accord.” She waited a beat, then added less quietly, “He bought me dinner. I remember exactly what I ate—two burgers, a plate of fries and a milkshake. And then he did something a cop should never do.”

Vin interrupted, “He took ya to his house.”

Josie nodded, a grin appearing as she shook her head, “I’d kill him if he ever did that today, but I’m glad he did it for me. I crashed on his couch and slept for two days straight. Then I ate everything in his refrigerator and left before he came home.”

Vin’s eyes reflected surprise, but he didn’t respond. She continued, “I felt a little guilty about it, but not after I got back on the street. I figured I’d never see him again anyway. I just moved to another part of the city to work. But, it didn’t quite work out that way.” Vin tilted his head in interest as she said, “See, besides being a delivery girl, I was also singing on street corners.”

Vin interrupted, “Singin’?”

Josie nodded, “Yeah. I can sing a little. And back then, I was singin’ old folk songs from the sixties, and people were pretty good about givin’ me change and sometimes a few bills. I did that almost every day, if I could. Nobody really gave me a hassle. And I really loved doin’ it, so it was a good way to make a little money. Plus, I got to keep most of it.” She paused, her mind drifting back. “It was probably a week, maybe a little longer, since I’d seen Ezra, and here I was singin’ my heart out to the business people on their lunch hours when I look up and see that pompous rookie cop comin’ out of the diner across the street. And when he sees me, he crosses the street right away. I wasn’t doing anything wrong, so I just stayed there and kept my eyes on him as he got near us. Ezra says I had the most defiant look on my face.”

Josie looked suddenly at Vin, and said, “You know what he did? He stood right in front of me and listened to every word of my song—no expression, no words—just listened. And when I was done, he pulled out a $20 bill and dropped it in my case. And then he went back to his car and drove away!”

Vin smiled as Josie finished the animated tale, nodding at the scene she described. Laughing a little, Josie went on.

“It really got to me that he was so quick to accept me just like I was. No judgments. He never talked down to me. He just took me at face value. That felt good for a change. So, I camped out on his doorstep until he got home from his shift that day. He never mentioned my leaving the first time, but he gave me his couch for as long as I wanted it.”

When Vin saw that she was not adding more to her last statement, he asked, “How long did ya stay?”

Josie smiled. “Better part of a year. But, it wasn’t just a free ride. He made me get a job. He got me a job. Well, actually, he got me job after job after job, because I had a bad attitude and kept getting fired.” She shrugged, slightly embarrassed, but continued, “And he told me I had to get clean, which took some time. And some pretty ugly fights between us. That was the worst of it. He pushed me to get sober, to stay off the drugs, to get off the bottle, and I would be okay for a while, but then something would happen. Maybe I’d get fired again or maybe it’d just be a bad day, and Ezra would end up drivin’ around all night, lookin’ for me on the streets. It was pretty bad for a while. But he stayed right there with me, and eventually I kicked it. Don’t do any of it anymore.”

Vin nodded his approval and waited for her to continue. She took a deep breath and said, “So, once we got past that, and I learned how to control my temper so I could keep a job, things started lookin’ up for me. I even started making enough money to afford a place of my own. Well...half of a place. Ezra paid the other half. And we just sorta became really good friends. It’s been about ten years now, I guess. The only time I’ve really ever been apart from him was when he moved here. I stayed in Atlanta instead of coming with him. I just decided I wanted to try being completely on my own for a while. And I did okay.”

She smiled at Vin and he nodded, saying, “I reckon ya did.” Then, as an afterthought, he added, “Why did ya come to Denver?”

Josie shrugged, “I like being around Ezra. He’s really the only friend I’ve ever had. And my boss was opening another restaurant here, so I figured it would be a good change.” She grinned slyly at Vin, shoving him slightly in the shoulder, and said, “Turned out pretty good so far.”

Vin grinned back at her, glancing away slightly then returning to look in her eyes. He laced his fingers through hers sighed. They sat in comfortable silence for a minute.

Josie broke the silence with, “I guess this isn’t exactly what you planned for tonight, huh?”

Vin rolled his eyes a little then jumped off the wall and stood in front of her, placing his hands on her knees. Looking up at her, he said, “Come on. I’ll take ya home.”

Josie shifted her eyes nervously and said in an embarrassed tone, “I didn’t mean it had to end.”

Vin leaned into her, pressing his chest against her legs, and, presenting her with a roguish grin, he replied, “I didn’t say I was gonna leave when we got there.” His eyebrows raised mischievously.

Josie felt a flush creep up the back of her neck, and she lost herself to an embarrassed but giddy smile. Quietly, she responded, “Oh.”

Vin chuckled and reached for her waist to help her down from the wall. They walked back into the club hand in hand, talking intimately.

Just as they approached the table where Mary and Casey were chatting, Vin suddenly veered left and Josie found herself in Vin’s arms, twirling onto the dance floor. Shock covered her face as she looked up at Vin. He was smiling triumphantly and leading her into a quick three-step.

She shook her head in mock disdain and raised her voice above the music’s level, “Smooth. Very smooth, Mister Tanner.”

Vin threw his head back in laughter and quickened the pace of their steps, turning circles on the floor in time to the music and expertly maneuvering through the other dancers. When they passed Nathan and Rain near the edge of the crowd, Rain smiled knowingly at her companion. Nathan nodded approval of his fellow agent’s burgeoning social life.

Pulling Josie close, Vin leaned toward her and said into her ear, “Like ridin’ a horse. Jus' follow me.” He pulled back to look into her eyes, giving her a quick wink. Josie smiled at him and nodded, then relaxed and fell easily into the long-forgotten rhythm.

+ + + + + + +

Outside Radissi’s Restaurant and Club, Ezra stalled briefly while his eyes casually surveyed the street. He knew the DEA agents were settled into a room within the high-rise across from the club, and he knew JD and Trey were somewhere close but out of sight for the moment. He lifted his head high and followed Jerome into the restaurant.

Though he was not personally searched, Ezra noticed a weapons sweep being done in a coatroom off to the side of the door. Because he was a respected guest and potential customer of the “more profitable” business, Ezra had been excused from that inconvenience. At least for tonight.

Jerome was talking again as they entered the posh restaurant. “Whatever you want, Mister Sullivan. It’s yours. I cleared it all for you. Anything you want.”

Just as Jerome was completing his statement, an attractive man of about fifty years approached them, extending his hand to Ezra as he neared.

“Good evening, Mister Sullivan. I am Edward Kepplen. Welcome to my restaurant.”

Ezra smiled and grasped the man’s hand, looking directly into his deep-set brown eyes, then said, “It is a pleasure to meet you, Mister Kepplen. Please, call me Ezra.”

Kepplen smiled agreeably, “And you, Ezra, should call me Edward.” The two men exchanged a firm handshake and regarded each other amicably. Kepplen continued, “My place is yours, for the length of your stay. If you have need or want of anything, you make that request known, and I will see to it that you have what you desire.”

Ezra smiled and replied, “Very good. I have, in fact, a request for now, if that’s agreeable?”

Kepplen appeared amused but nodded, “Anything.”

Ezra stood before the manager and stated, “I have decided to stay in Denver indefinitely. I would really like a companion during the time I am here.”

Edward Kepplen smiled knowingly, then turned toward the main room, and with a sweeping gesture of his arm, proclaimed, “And what is your preference?”

Ezra followed the man’s arm and realized he was referring to the room full of waitresses and hostesses. Ezra’s eyes swept the room, a smile playing at the corner of his lips, until his gaze rested on a tall redhead serving patrons at the bar.

With a sly look in his eyes, Ezra said, “I believe I would rather enjoy the lovely lady at the bar. The beauty with red hair.”

Kepplen and Jerome turned simultaneously, their eyes resting on Ezra’s choice. Both men smiled approvingly.

Jerome declared, “The man has wonderful taste, sir.”

Kepplen agreed, “Indeed he does. And perfect timing.” Looking back at Ezra, he continued, “She has only tonight joined our staff. A very good thing, it seems.”

Ezra’s eyes remained on the waitress, but he nodded at Kepplen’s statement. “A very good thing, indeed.”

Kepplen smiled and led the way to the bar. When he reached the woman, he laid a gentle hand on her bare arm and guided her around to face him. The eyes of Amelia Eagan immediately landed on Ezra.

Kepplen said, “Molly, this is Mr. Ezra Sullivan. I’d like for you to accompany him while he is a guest in our city.”

Ezra reached for Amelia’s hand and placed a warm and gentle kiss on her fingertips. She blushed slightly and grinned, looking away at first then returning her gaze to his eyes. He smiled at her and said, “I would be honored by your company.”

Amelia’s eyes flickered with delight and she smiled widely, replying, “I’d love to, Mr. Sullivan.”

Ezra slowly shook his head and replied, “Ezra. Please.”

For a long moment, Ezra and Amelia looked deep into the other’s eyes, until Amelia’s voice came barely above a whisper, “Ezra.”

His lips formed a slow smile and he nodded his agreement.

Kepplen stepped forward, visibly pleased with the immediate chemistry between his employee and his patron. Taking Amelia’s hand, he said, “If you wouldn’t mind, dear, I would like to speak with Mister Sullivan alone for a time. After that, he is all yours.”

Amelia looked at Ezra and smiled flirtatiously. “Great. I can’t wait.”

Ezra returned the smile then followed Kepplen to a private office in the back of the restaurant. Amelia had trouble containing the butterflies in her stomach as she continued waiting on customers. But she couldn’t actually determine the source of those butterflies, and that intrigued her.

+ + + + + + +

It was almost 2 am, and Reg was sleeping in the other room while Masen dozed in his chair. A dark blue sedan stopped in front of Amelia’s building and Ezra stepped out first. Chase abruptly sat forward, his chair creaking loudly but not seeming to affect the agent beside him. Chase squinted into the darkness.

Amelia took Ezra’s proffered hand and stepped from the vehicle, then waited as he closed the door and asked the driver to wait there.

A curious expression crossed Chase’s features. “Well, well. That was fast.” His eyes moved to the monitors when Amelia and Ezra entered the dark building.

Ezra escorted Amelia up the three flights of stairs to her door, but he did not enter. Amelia stood in her doorway after unlocking the apartment and chuckled at Ezra’s mortified expression.

“You live here?” he asked, craning his neck slightly to look past her into the apartment.

She grinned, “Yes, this is my place.”

Ezra shook his head slightly. “We’ll be doing something about that. This just won’t do.”

Amelia regarded him curiously. “Really?”

“Yes,” he replied, “Really.”

Amelia opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted by the opening of her next door neighbor’s door. A ragged old woman stepped into the hallway and looked toward Amelia. Her eyes immediately scanned Ezra from head to toe. Then she looked at Amelia and nodded approvingly. Amelia stifled a giggle.

“Can I help you, Miz Taylor?” she asked directly.

Miz Taylor replied in a craggy voice, “I got sumpin’ for ya. Came while you was gone.” She stepped back into her apartment then returned quickly with a ribbon-tied bouquet of red roses. She brought them to Amelia, then pointed at the ribbon and said, “Dere’s a card. Right dere.”

Ezra peered forward to see the card then met Amelia’s sudden glance. She gave him a quizzical look, prompting him to say, “I’m afraid they are not from me, darlin’. We have only just met, remember?”

Amelia nodded and replied, “Well, yes. But I was thinking, since you’re such a powerful and prominent man, that it would be nothing at all for you to have flowers delivered in the middle of the night.” Her eyes issued a slight challenge.

Ezra smiled slyly and responded, “That is true. It would be no trouble at all. But those, my dear, are not from me. I am sorry.”

With bewildered eyes, Amelia nodded, then thanked her neighbor and turned back toward Ezra. When Miz Taylor remained in her doorway, Ezra took the cue to leave.

Raising a hand to Amelia’s cheek, he brushed his fingers slowly down the side of her face. Then he looked into her eyes and said, “Goodnight, Molly. Sleep well.” Then he added, “The next bouquet will be from me.”

Amelia smiled, and Ezra turned to leave, then stopped and said, “I shall be here at eight o’clock. We have much to do tomorrow.”

Amelia countered, “Eight a.m.? Why so early?”

Ezra grinned, “Early birds and all...” his voice trailing off.

Amelia groaned but did not argue. “Eight o’clock.”

Ezra waited on the stairs until she had stepped into her apartment and he heard the clicks of her door locks. He then proceeded down the stairs to his awaiting driver. He was pleased with the events of the evening. The appropriate contacts had been made, and he had paired with Amelia for the duration of the deal. Everything was running according to the plan. He could sleep easy tonight.

Across the street, Chase Donovan had been sitting in the dark, anxiously glancing back and forth between monitors and Amelia’s building. The camera picked up shadows by the door but no clearly visible images. And Amelia had not entered the room to give the signal. He was almost beside himself by the time he caught sight of her on the monitor to his left.

Amelia passed beneath the smoke alarm and moved to the window. She slowly drew the shade back down and blocked out the lights from the street below, then clicked on a small lamp that rested on the table beneath the window. Chase could breathe again.

Amelia laid the flowers on a table and glanced at the card. Smiling a bit, she moved into her bedroom to shower and change.

Chase had moved within inches of the monitor’s screen, trying to see more clearly Amelia’s actions. He could make out her image, but the details were in the dark shadows. When she left the room altogether, he leaned back in his chair and prepared for the long night.

After about fifteen minutes, Chase picked up Amelia’s movement back through the apartment toward the window. She picked up the roses and proceeded to the kitchen. The closest thing she had to a vase was a tall drinking glass, so she arranged the flowers in that and placed them on the coffee table. Picking up the card, she smiled as she reread it. So glad you’re back, my love. She looked up into the camera hidden behind the smoke alarm and smiled.

Shaking her head, she said, “Thank you. Goodnight, Chase.”

Chase smiled and whispered, “Goodnight, love.” Then he took a deep breath and settled in for the night as Amelia disappeared from view.

Chapter Five

Buck angrily strode through the door and into the lobby of the office that secretly housed the handful of agents and detectives who were working the El Invisible case. The slam of the door behind him caused the security guard at the outer desk to stare at Buck as he neared the second door which led to the inner sanctum. Buck snapped his head toward the guard and questioned, “What?!” but didn’t wait for a response. The security guard simply raised his eyebrows and returned to the newspaper he was reading. Buck passed through the door, shutting it behind him with too much force.

His approach could be heard by all those within the inner offices, even while Buck passed through two more sets of doors to reach them. Though they glanced at each other nervously, no one was looking at Buck when he finally reached the room housing the surveillance equipment trained across the street on Radissi’s Restaurant and Club. No one dared. Buck’s voice broke the stillness that had surrounded them since his arrival.

“That is the sorriest excuse for an informant I have ever seen!” he bellowed to no one in particular. “Not only is he late,” he continued, his rant giving way to a sort of pacing motion, “but he’s half an hour late! And then he says he has nothing new to tell me!” Buck met the eyes of Chris Larabee, who entered the room with Josiah and Nathan. Buck continued, “If he doesn’t give me something better’n this, I swear, he ain’t gonna live long enough to get a deal. I’m gonna kill ‘im myself, right there in public!”

Chris’s gaze steadied on his long-time friend, sharing his frustration but concerned over Buck’s tantrum. Though a slight smile rested at the corners of Chris’s mouth, he stared evenly at Buck until the man settled a little.

Across the room, JD turned in his chair to face Buck with a wide grin. “You gonna be like this the whole case?”

Buck turned quickly toward JD, moving slightly closer and peering down at him, then responded gruffly, “I might! Is that a problem?”

JD didn’t flinch. Instead, he smiled wider and replied, “Nope. Just wanna know what to expect.” Still smiling, he met Buck’s stare a little longer, then returned to his computer and entered more calculations for the cameras on the street below them.

Buck sighed loudly and walked across the room to the coffee setup. As he finished filling a large styrofoam cup, Chris quietly called, “Buck.” Buck turned to see the slightest jerk of Chris’s head, signaling him to follow into the next office. Chris waited a beat, then turned and moved through the door. Buck followed a second later.

As Buck neared the door, he avoided the eyes of Josiah and Nathan. Josiah waited until Buck was shoulder to shoulder with him before his calm, rumbling voice said, “He’s only had one cup of coffee.”

Buck shifted his eyes sideways to look at Josiah, then glanced the other way to look at Nathan, who shrugged. Buck took a deep breath, straightened himself up to his full height, then proceeded into the next office with head held high. He slung one long leg over the corner of the large conference table and sat on its edge to watch Chris stare across the city through the wall of darkened windows on the other side of the room.

Buck waited. And he waited. After a minute, he moved into the chair at the head of the table, waiting still more. Finally he began to say something, but Chris turned to look at him and Buck changed his mind. He gulped his coffee.

In a matter-of-fact voice, Chris said, “What’d he say?”

Buck fought the frustration that threatened to rise again and replied, “Nothin’. Not a single piece of useful information. Why’re we wasting our time with this guy? He’s never gonna give us anything we don’t already know.”

Chris’s eyes glanced away, propelling him into thought for a moment, then he looked back at Buck. “Let’s give him one more chance. And let him know that. He’ll talk if he thinks he’s gonna be stuck there forever. Even if he makes it up, he’ll talk.”

Buck replied, with color slowly rising in his neck as he fought to control his temper, “Oh, he’d better not make somethin’ up! He’d better tell me exactly what I wanna know!”

Chris repressed a smile at his friend’s bravado. If anyone was right for this part of the job, it was definitely Buck. He’d get what he wanted out of his informant, that much was for sure. Chris watched his pal attempt to regain composure. He turned away before he made his next statement.

“I need you with us, Buck.” Chris waited but received no response, so he turned to look at his agent. Buck’s eyes showed a hint of confusion. “I need you here.” Chris leveled his green eyes on the man across the room, waiting for a sign of compliance.

Buck met Chris’s gaze but looked away slightly then placed his attention on the steaming cup between his fingers.

Chris added, “Leave your personal life at the door.”

Buck took a long, deep breath, then looked up and met Chris’s eyes. He wasn’t sure what Chris was thinking, but he had a good idea that secrets weren’t always so secret. Finally, Buck nodded slowly.

“I’m right here.”

Chris nodded then turned back to the windows. After a minute, Buck realized their conversation had ended. He slowly rose from the chair, the sound of its legs sliding across the floor startling the silence in the room. As Buck was turning to leave, Chris spoke once more.

“Go talk to Trey. Give him the rundown of your meeting. Then get outta here. Go out tonight and do something. I want you back here tomorrow ready to work.”

Buck lowered his eyes slightly, nodded, then proceeded through the side door to another office where Trey Porter had set up Information Central. Buck couldn’t wait to get out of these offices. There was nothing he wanted more than to get his mind far away from the situation at hand. At least for the time he would still be able to. Buck was actually looking forward to going out this time.

+ + + + + + +

Amelia couldn’t remember the last time she’d had so much fun. And certainly not while working on a case. She felt like royalty with all the boutique attendants clamoring to fulfill her every whim. Smoothing her hands down the sides of her full figured hips, she smiled at her reflection in the full-length mirrors before her. The red dress fit just right. Snug in all the right places, with only enough breathing room to keep her from passing out. Her bare arms accented the deep cut of the gown’s neckline, revealing just the right amount of her ample bosom. Amelia smiled again, then looked sideways at Ezra, standing nearby.

“Do I look like Julia Roberts?” she chirped, her face slightly flush with giddiness.

Ezra’s eyes traveled the length of her curvaceous form, resting on her hips then returning to her exposed shoulders and settling on her eyes. A slight smile appeared.

“No.” His tone was flat.

Amelia’s mouth dropped open slightly, then she smirked at her partner. Before she could reply, Ezra said, “But, you do look ravishing.” Amelia smiled winningly and turned back to the mirrors, regarding her appearance once more. The sales associate returned to her side, and soon Amelia was back in the dressing room.

While Amelia continued to revel in the attention, and rack up a bill at which the federal government would scream, Ezra placed call after call on his cell phone. First, he arranged for his California counterparts to meet him in Denver later in the week. One last face to face meeting to get their details in order. No product. Just an exchange of information. Then Ezra spoke with several people in Kepplen’s group, attempting to establish a direct line with Mr. Kepplen himself. Ezra refused to speak with anyone less, but each successive person gave him another reason why Kepplen was unavailable. Ezra’s calm demeanor was rapidly fading. Finally, he called Jerome.

“Mister Sullivan! How wonderful to hear from you! How was your evening?” Jerome’s sleazy nature came forth in even the most honest of questions. Ezra’s nostrils flared as he inhaled deeply.

“My evenings are my concern, Mister Pitts.” He paused so the words would sink in, then continued, “Would you kindly explain to me why I seem to be getting the proverbial ‘run-around’ in my attempts to converse with Edward Kepplen?”

Jerome paused before answering, then weakly began, “Well...uh...I...uh...”

Ezra interrupted, “Is there a problem, Mister Pitts? Do I need to take my business elsewhere?”

Jerome Pitts was sweating when he answered, too quickly, “No! Oh, no! Certainly not, Mister Sullivan. Certainly not! I’m sure Kepplen is just tied up in some other business deal. That’s all! I’ll try to reach him for you, and I’ll be sure to let him know you’re anxious to talk to him.” Pitts held his breath as he waited for Ezra’s response.

Ezra closed his eyes and placed a finger over each of the lids. Slowly, he applied pressure to the sockets below his eyes, sighing deeply and attempting to remain composed.

Quietly he said, “Very well. I look forward to his call.”

Jerome’s released breath could be heard through the phone. “Wonderful. Great, Mister Sullivan. I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about. I’ll tell him to call right away.”

Ezra was nodding in annoyance as Jerome rambled on. “Fine. Fine,” he said, seeking to end this conversation quickly.

Jerome began, “Is there anything else I can?”

Ezra cut him off, “No. There’s nothing else I nee...” He paused, his eyes resting on Amelia as she inspected the rear view of the newest gown she had donned. “Actually,” Ezra amended, “there is one more thing.”

“Anything,” Jerome stated quickly, “Name it!”

Ezra replied, “I need an apartment. I would rather not spend the length of my stay in a hotel.”

Curiously, Jerome said, “Well...okay... What would you like me to do?”

Ezra’s annoyance had peaked, and it came forth in each heavily emphasized word. “Acquire an apartment for me, Jerome. I just said I required an apartment.” Ezra sighed, rubbing his forehead with his fingertips. “A penthouse would be perfect. Somewhere downtown. One of those luxury high-rise buildings would be an excellent choice. Spacious, but not too expansive. We are only two, remember. Can you do that for me, Jerome?”

Jerome was quick to respond, “Oh, yes, sir! Consider it done, Mister Sullivan. Consider it done. I’m making the call now.”

Ezra replied tiredly, “Fine, Jerome. Fine. And be sure it’s ready by tonight. We’ll likely return around six. And I choose not to see any workers still lingering when we arrive.”

Jerome hesitated, “Six? That doesn’t really give me too much ti...”

“It gives you all afternoon, Jerome!” Ezra snapped. “I’m holding you personally responsible for this. See that it’s done.”

Dejectedly, Jerome replied, “Yes, sir, Mister Sullivan. I’ll make sure it’s ready for you and your lady. Don’t worry about a thing.”

Bored, Ezra replied, “Fine. Good-bye, Jerome,” then clicked off his phone and returned it to the inner pocket of his jacket. He was tired. And worried.

Ezra strolled slowly across the floor of the boutique to stand beside Amelia at the mirrors. She turned to him with a bright smile. A genuine smile. Her dark green eyes were dancing. Ezra responded to her excitement with a relaxed, easy smile. His first of the day.

Uncertainly, Amelia asked, “Do I really get to take all this stuff with me?”

Ezra’s eyelids dropped halfway as he regarded her, “Of course. Nothing but the best for you, my dear. Anything you desire.”

Amelia grinned slyly. “Anything?”

Ezra’s hand moved to her cheek, and he brushed his fingers across the smooth skin, moving her hair away from her face, then pushing it slowly behind her shoulders. His hand remained there for a moment.

“Anything,” he whispered, his eyes intent on hers. Amelia’s eyes sparkled and a wide smile covered her face. To the nearby attendant, Ezra asked, “What have we left to see?”

Amelia quickly responded, “Shoes!”

Ezra smiled, then chuckled a bit. With a slight tilt of his head, he echoed, “Shoes.” Turning to the sales attendant, he said, “The lady would like to see your selection of footwear.” He looked back to Amelia, mirroring her satisfaction.

“I have one more call to make,” he commented, “and then I’m yours for the duration of the day.”

Amelia’s countenance was lit with enthusiasm. “Good. Because I’d like your opinion on some things.”

Ezra nodded, “I’m all yours.”

Amelia smiled widely once again and repeated, “Good.”

Ezra’s hand returned to her shoulder then slowly slid under her long red hair to cup the back of her neck. Leaning toward her, he spoke just barely the word “appearances.” Amelia picked up the cue and leaned into him. Their lips met, and they shared a soft, lingering kiss. They parted slowly, their eyes remaining closed a moment longer, then gazed at each other. Amelia was the first to smile.

Ezra drew his hand around the base of her neck toward the front, then brushed the backs of his fingers up to her chin. He smiled lazily, smoothing the tip of his thumb across her bottom lip, then he drew away, retreating to a chair and taking out the phone once more. Amelia’s eyes remained on him as he left. She didn’t notice the sales attendant return until the woman spoke to her.

“He’s a very attractive man. You’re a lucky woman.”

Amelia continued to watch Ezra, a smile crossing her features. She nodded slowly and replied, “I suppose I am.”

+ + + + + + +

Chase Donovan clicked off the secured cell phone and hurried to his equipment near the window.

“Pack it up, boys!” he exclaimed, detaching wires as he spoke, “We’re moving downtown.” Waiting for the curious stares, he added, “Miss Molly is moving up. Seems her new partner doesn’t think this neighborhood is befitting a companion of his. He’s got a nice little place all arranged in a building near the big club. We gotta get ourselves over there and wire it before they get there. We’re the movers, boys. Pack it up!”

+ + + + + + +

It didn’t take much to convince Jerome Pitts that Masen and Chase were part of the crew hired to set up the penthouse. They blended in nicely with their youthful exuberance and eager-to-help attitude. In fact, the two of them were so eager that the other hired hands, most of whom had been picked up off the street on the way to the building, stepped back and allowed Masen and Chase to do much of the work. This suited the young officers just fine. Around five o’clock, when most of the furnishings had found their proper places, Chase suggested that he and his partner finish the work, adding a little cash incentive to the offer. By five fifteen, Chase and Masen were alone in the apartment.

Working quickly, they placed surveillance cameras in the smoke alarm, inside two lamps, and within an odd looking sculpture that sat on a table by the door. They also wired the entire main room for audio surveillance, along with the kitchenette and the inner living area. Per Amelia’s wishes, no surveillance was allowed in the bedroom.

Chase finished laying the last bug just seconds before Jerome Pitts returned. Disturbed to find the others missing, but impressed with Chase and Masen, Pitts presented the two men with an extra $50 each. The young officers made a hasty exit, rushing down the street just as Ezra and Amelia were being driven into the parking garage beneath their building. Chase glanced back once as he followed Masen around the building to a back alley but sighed when he caught no glimpse of Amelia through the car’s darkened windows. A smile came to his face quickly, though, and he ran faster to pass his partner on the way to the building where he would soon be monitoring the new place.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra opened the door to his new penthouse apartment then stepped aside to allow Amelia first entry. She smiled broadly as her eyes took in the lush furnishings of her newly established home.

Turning to Ezra, she asked, “Are we really going to live here?” Her eyes betrayed a touch of astonishment.

Ezra smiled sublimely, his hand gently cupping her cheek as he replied, “Only the best, my dear.”

Amelia closed her eyes and breathed deeply the essence of her newest surroundings. She opened them slowly with a wide smile. “Mmm...” was all she said.

Ezra moved away and casually strolled through the remainder of the apartment, taking in every detail but not commenting on one thing. When he returned to the main room, Ezra stopped only a few feet from Jerome.

Determinedly, he said, “I want a sweep of the entire apartment.”

Amelia glanced up quickly from her inspection of the bouquet of roses on the dining table, but then turned away to mask her surprise. Jerome Pitts bristled visibly.

“I’m sorry, Mister Sullivan?” he began, obviously nervous with the direction of the conversation, “You want a ‘sweep’?”

Displaying boredom, Ezra looked directly into Jerome’s eyes and repeated, “A sweep. An extensive search of everything in the apartment.”

Jerome was sweating. “May I ask why, Mister Sullivan?”

Ezra’s eyes became flat. “I believe I have the right to know if I’m being monitored in any way. Don’t you agree, Mister Pitts? I want to be absolutely sure that I am not. Certainly you can understand my desire for privacy. And my need for trust. Can you not, Mister Pitts?”

Jerome Pitts wiped the beads of perspiration from his upper lip and nodded. “Of course, of course. I’ll arrange for that right now. But I assure you, Mister Sullivan. I was here every minute while they set up the place, and nothing like that happened.”

Ezra turned and walked away, replying, “Perhaps. I would prefer to be certain.”

Jerome nodded and pressed two buttons on his cell phone. Speaking nervously, he began, “Um... Rodney... Jerome... I’m gonna need someone over here right away. I need a bug sweep. And I mean right away, Rodney.”

+ + + + + + +

In the office building across the street, Masen could barely withstand Chase’s tirade. He watched in disbelief as the events unfolded and Chase’s well planned surveillance came crashing down around him.

“What does he think he’s doing?!” Chase bellowed, already beginning the angry pacing motion across the width of the room. “Is he out of his mind?!”

Masen stared at the monitor, watching man after man sweep the room. One by one, Masen watched his monitors go black. One by one, he saw audio lines die. His heart sank a little lower with each connection lost. Chase glanced over occasionally, noting the progression, but his ranting never waned.

With his hands in the air, Chase exclaimed, “This guy! Who does he think he is?! You can’t just come in and undo what’s been mandated! What does he think he’s doing!!!”

Finally, the search ended. Every bug had been disposed of, and every camera had been located and disabled. Save one.

Chase moved to stand behind his partner, both men’s eyes glued to the picture being transmitted from the last small camera still safely housed in its sculpture near the door. Masen held his breath as the last of the men left the penthouse with their collection of useless surveillance treasures. Chase began to relax.

Just as the final man stepped into the entry hall, the young officers heard Ezra say, “Take that with you. That is most god-awful piece of artwork I have ever had the misfortune to lay eyes upon.”

Masen’s head dropped forward and his eyes closed. Chase simply stared at the monitor as the camera transmitted a bumpy view of the front door, the outer hallway and the inside of the private elevator. Chase could only see the mirrored doors of the elevator for a short time, until suddenly the camera jumped and a crash was heard.

Masen’s eyes flew open to see a large man staring into the tiny camera retrieved from the pieces of sculpture that lay on the elevator floor. Then his monitor went black. He dropped his head again.

Chase stared at the dead equipment a minute longer, his face reflecting shock. When he finally spoke, he was calmer than Masen had expected.

Through gritted teeth, Chase managed to say, “I don’t like that guy.” He waited a beat then repeated with a snarl, “I really don’t like that guy.”

Masen sighed loudly and picked up the phone to call Chris Larabee.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra stood across the room from a visibly shaken Jerome Pitts. He stared at him until Jerome was unable to look Ezra in the eye.

In an accusing voice, Ezra said, “Interesting, isn’t it?”

Jerome avoided Ezra’s gaze and stuttered, “I...I don’t know what to say, Mister Sullivan... I..uh..I don’t understand how this could have happened.”

Ezra stepped closer to Jerome and looked into his eyes, forcing the man to give undivided attention. “Perhaps you weren’t here the entire time, Mister Pitts?”

Jerome shifted nervously on his feet, nodding slightly and looking down like a defeated child. “I’m sorry, Mister Sullivan. I...I don’t know what to tell you.”

Ezra waited a long moment, until Jerome again had to look up into his eyes. Forcefully, he said, “Assure me that this will be rectified.”

Jerome stared blankly into the green eyes before him. “What do you want me to do?”

Ezra again waited before replying, his close proximity causing Jerome to become edgy. “I want assurance that I can trust you still, Jerome. And I want to know I can trust your people.”

Jerome replied, “Whatever you want us to do, Mister Sullivan.”

Ezra’s eyes narrowed slightly. “I will be mentioning this incident to Edward tonight. And I shall be using my own people from this point forward. But you...” he paused for emphasis, “you shall arrange for me to meet the man in charge. This week.”

Jerome’s eyes darted anxiously. “I’m not sure I can do that, Mister Sullivan.” Ezra leaned a bit closer as Jerome stuttered, “It’s not that I don’t want to...it’s just that...well...no one meets the boss.”

Ezra smirked, “Then I will be the first, Jerome.”

Jerome fidgeted then replied dejectedly, “Sure, Mister Sullivan. I’ll see what I can do.”

Ezra’s face hardened. “No, Jerome. You see that you do it. This week.”

Jerome’s eyes dropped to the floor and his shoulders sagged. He nodded sadly. Ezra turned away from him, signaling his cue to leave, but stopped when he saw Amelia reclining lazily on the sofa.

“Jerome,” he called, his eyes fixed on Amelia, “one more thing.” Amelia’s glance told Ezra that Jerome had turned back toward the room. “Have the concierge send up a bottle of champagne.”

Jerome’s brow furrowed. “Champagne?”

Ezra smiled slightly, an act mirrored by Amelia, and repeated quietly, “Champagne.”

Jerome nodded, “Yes sir, Mister Sullivan. Right away.” As he reached the front hall, he glanced back and said, “I am sorry, Mister Sullivan. I’ll make this right.”

Ezra’s hand waved him away without a word, and Jerome Pitts disappeared through the door.

Amelia’s smile was almost wicked as she stared at her partner who was standing over her at the end of the sofa. Ezra met her stare.

With admiration, Amelia said, “Nicely done.”

Ezra shrugged, stepping away and moving nearer a chair opposite her. He continued to stand, gazing out the windows that faced the offices across the avenue. Amelia’s eyes stayed on Ezra.

“I’m not so sure about the bug sweep, though,” she added. Then with a slight grin, she said, “Chase probably died a slow death.”

Ezra’s jaw tightened slightly. “I prefer seeing the eyes of those who watch me. It’s rather like being a fish in an aquarium. I will not agree to it.”

Amelia grinned wider. She stared intently at the man before her, remembering days long past. “You’re still as uptight as ever.”

Ezra looked at her in mock warning. “You haven’t known me for years. I’ve mellowed considerably.”

Amelia snorted, “Yeah, right! You’re the stiffest human being I’ve ever known. A fine cop, but so intense! You still don’t know how to loosen up, do you?”

Ezra sat on the arm of the overstuffed chair, an indignant smile on his lips. “I have plenty of fun.”

Amelia smiled widely and sarcastically replied, “Sure ya do. Okay.”

Ezra’s countenance belied perturbation. “Of course, to you, Party Girl, what I enjoy may not seem exciting. But it suits me rather well.”

Amelia rolled her eyes. “Okay, Adventure Boy. Tell me what you do for fun.” She made a grand show of lying back and settling into the cushions of the couch, preparing herself to be entertained.

Ezra smirked, allowing a twinkle in his eye. “I do not have to justify my life to you, darlin’.”

Amelia whined, “Oh, come on! Just tell me what you do for fun. When you go out, where do you go? I’m sure you have an adoring paramour waiting at home, so...where do you take her?”

Ezra’s eyes clouded slightly and he glanced away. “Actually, I don’t. Just a good friend who accompanies me occasionally. No one else. At the moment.” He looked up pointedly as he said the last statement.

Amelia backed off slightly, sensing the sadness in Ezra. But she didn’t give up the interrogation.

“Okay. So, you’re single. Big deal. Join the club. Where do you like to go? What do you do for fun?”

Ezra sighed, realizing this would not end until he answered. “You’re relentless,” he said, staring intently at her but softening when she smiled winningly. “Fine. When I go out, I enjoy the usual things. I might see a movie. I always go to dinner. The best restaurants, of course.”

Amelia answered, “Of course.”

Ezra continued, “I have been known to attend the better symphony performances. I rather enjoy the opera. And I’m always satisfied after a delightful evening of dining and dancing.”

Amelia’s nose turned up. In a sing-song voice, she replied, “Bor-ring.”

Ezra shook his head and turned away, wishing he’d never said a word. Amelia watched him with a satisfied smile on her face.

“That’s it?” she asked after a moment. “That’s all you do?”

Ezra mumbled, “Basically.”

Amelia asked incredulously, “Seriously? That’s really all you do?”

Ezra faced her. “Yes. That’s all I do.” Then he added, “And work. That’s what I do.”

Amelia’s shoulders slumped melodramatically. “That’s so boring, Ezra. No wonder you’re so uptight. You don’t even hang out with friends? You don’t go to bars to pick up women? Nothing? You don’t go to a gym or anything?”

Ezra sat up slightly and replied evenly, “The friends I have are quite engrossed in their own lives. I don’t need to pick up women. But yes, if you must know, I do frequent a gym.”

Amelia’s eyes lit. Then she sneered, “Oh, wait. You’re one of those cops who spends all his time workin’ out. Trying to stay buff. You guys are the worst.” Her face showed repulsion.

Ezra chuckled, unamused. “I said I frequent a gym. Not that I live there.”

Amelia eyed him carefully, then said, “Stand up.”

Knitting his brows, Ezra replied, “What?”

Standing from the sofa, Amelia repeated, “Stand up.” She moved in front of him and tugged at his hands to prompt him.

When he was standing, Amelia began to shove the edges of his jacket off of his shoulders, saying, “Take off your jacket.”

Ezra’s eyes widened, and he looked at her suspiciously. “What?”

Amelia sighed, continuing to push the jacket from his body. Emphasizing each word, she repeated, “Take off your jacket,” then added, “Please, Ezra. If I really wanted anything from you, I’d just tell ya straight out. You know me better than that.” Ezra grinned and nodded, shrugging off his jacket.

As the jacket dropped into the chair behind him, Amelia’s hands moved slowly down the length of Ezra’s silk sleeves. She gently squeezed the muscular portion of his upper arms, wrapping her long fingers around the bicep area and slowly applying more pressure. Her eyes drifted from one arm to the other, pausing briefly as they crossed his chest. An unhurried smile came to her lips. Then her eyes raised to meet his. Ezra’s countenance was purposefully stoic.

Quietly, Amelia said, “Okay. So...maybe it’s not such a bad thing.”

She looked into his clear green eyes a moment longer, then threw her head back and chortled. Ezra rolled his eyes but smiled.

As Amelia stepped away, he said, “And you think I haven’t changed.”

Amelia raised one eyebrow. “I guess we’re both a little older. And wiser.”

Seating himself again, Ezra replied pointedly, “Maybe.” Amelia grinned and raised her eyes to the ceiling. She shrugged.

In all seriousness, Ezra said, “Do you know I remember the exact moment we met?”

Amelia smiled lazily as she returned to the sofa. “So do I. A momentous period of my life, to say the least.” Her head drooped slightly.

Ezra nodded, his eyes tender. “You got through it.”

Amelia agreed, “Yes. But the cost...” Her voice trailed off in sadness.

Ezra waited a moment then continued, “So, do you really work for Vice now? Or is that still just a cover?”

Amelia regarded him curiously, debating her response. Swallowing hard, she looked directly into Ezra’s eyes, her own dark green orbs revealing uncertainty. Finally, she glanced away.

“I suppose,” she began, “if I could ever trust anyone, it would have to be you.”

Ezra replied quietly, his gaze fixed on hers, “I have never broken a promise to you. I still hold your secrets.”

Amelia sighed sadly. “I know you do.” Pausing, she looked at her hands and sighed, then said, “I’m still an agent.”

Ezra asked, “DEA?”

Amelia nodded. “Yes. But, like in Atlanta, I’m assigned to the Vice unit. When they didn’t need me there anymore, I was transferred back here to Denver. That was almost three years ago. At first, I was just working the same angles as Atlanta...”

Ezra interrupted, “Investigating cops.”

Amelia avoided his eyes but nodded. “Yeah. But within a year, the trafficking increased suddenly. We knew it had to be the Covoran people. He’s always had connections here. So, they kept me under the same cover. With Vice, I can work the drug angles and still keep tabs on the people around me.” She sighed quietly, “I’ve been working this case so long, I can’t remember anything else.”

Ezra asked, “Why are you still so deep under? Why not just let you go back to your department?”

She answered, “I haven’t paid my dues yet. You don’t get off the hook so quickly when you do what I’ve done.”

Ezra replied, “You’ve only been accused. That’s not the same as committing the act.”

Amelia nodded unconvincingly, then said, “Besides...you never know who to trust.” She looked into his eyes and added, “Do you?”

Ezra averted his eyes slightly. “No. You don’t.”

Sighing, Amelia sank back into the sofa. They were silent for a while, each filled with memories of the past. Eventually, a grin slowly spread across Ezra’s face.

Looking up, he asked Amelia, “So...what do you do for fun?” The twinkle had returned to his eyes.

Amelia smiled brightly and replied, “I had fun today.” She bit her lower lip as the giddiness rose within her again.

Ezra chuckled. “I could tell. Everyone could tell.” He grinned at her enthusiasm.

Amelia spread her arms wide and collapsed even further into the cushions. “I’ve always wanted to be taken care of like that. Like a princess with subjects waiting on me hand and foot.” She smiled exuberantly, causing Ezra to laugh.

He said, “Enjoy it. I feel certain it will all be returned in due time.”

Amelia’s face turned to a pretend pout. “All of it?”

Ezra nodded. “I’m sorry to say, but yes. I doubt the bureau will validate the expenditures I shall be submitting.”

Amelia protruded her bottom lip, frowning at her partner, until suddenly her eyes lit up and a mischievous look appeared.

“I’m keepin’ the red dress,” she said peevishly, “I don’t care what they say.”

Ezra grinned. “An excellent choice.”

Amelia nodded in agreement. “Yes, it was. Thank you for finding it.”

Ezra bowed his head slightly in her direction. “It suits you, my dear.”

Amelia beamed. Ezra stood then, picking up his jacket, and said, “And speaking of...” he offered a hand to Amelia. “We should be preparing for dinner with Kepplen.”

Amelia took Ezra’s hand and stood, smiling. “Yes,” she said with a dramatic sigh, “some work is never done.” Ezra chuckled and turned toward the bedroom.

As they moved into the other room, Amelia suddenly asked, “What happened to the champagne?”

Ezra stopped momentarily, sighing slightly and rolling his eyes. “Jerome.”

Amelia wrinkled her nose. “Where’d you find him, anyway?”

Ezra glanced toward her and shrugged. “He came with the job.”

Amelia nodded in complete understanding then sighed. “The things we do for the job..”

Ezra nodded, continuing to the bedroom. Becoming serious once again, he said, “And that is what we need to discuss. Tonight will determine how the story unfolds, I believe. And you have a great deal to do.” Stopping at the door, he stepped aside and looked into her eyes. “Are you ready?”

Amelia smiled brightly, her eyes sparkling. “Of course I’m ready! Aren’t I always?”

Ezra looked deeply into her eyes, studying her behind the masks she continually wore. Quietly, he replied, “Yes, you are.”

Amelia enthusiastically replied, “Then let’s get ready!” She plucked Ezra’s chin with her thumb and index finger, smiled cheerfully, then literally bounced into the bedroom. Ezra stood a moment longer, rolled his eyes, then followed her path.

+ + + + + + +

Buck’s patience had run out. For the fourth time, he called for JD to leave the work and come on. There was nothing to be done that couldn’t wait until tomorrow. JD finally shut down his notebook computer and pushed his files into a neat pile on the corner of his makeshift desk. Buck sighed in exasperation and exclaimed, “J...D...!!” JD picked up his jacket and moved toward the door through which Buck had already retreated.

Vin placed a foot on the edge of the windowsill and slowly pushed his chair onto its back legs. Perfectly balanced, he chuckled at the sound of Buck’s voice warning JD not to return to the inside room. A second later, Vin’s eyes shot sideways to see JD rushing back to the table and fingering through his files.

Chris’s authoritative voice came from the opposite end of the room, “JD.”

JD glanced over at his supervisor but immediately turned back to the files, saying, “It’s just this one thing?”

Chris cut him off. “JD. Go home.” When JD looked up again, Chris’s voice came as a quiet command, “Go home.”

JD stared at Chris, then nodded dejectedly. He replaced the files and moved toward the door. His mood picked up with each step he took, and as he reached the outer office, he was heard to cheerfully call “Buck! Wait up!”

Chris shook his head slightly at the boy’s dedication, refilling his never-empty mug of coffee. He crossed to the windows, picking up a chair on the way, and sat beside Vin.

“Anything I need to know?”

Vin shook his head languidly. “Nah. Same as always. Nothin’ outta the ordinary yet.”

Chris asked, “Any sign of Ezra and Molly?”

Vin shook his head again. “Not yet. I figure Josiah’s just now gettin’ there, so we got a while ‘fore we’ll see ‘em.”

Chris nodded pensively. He sipped the steaming black liquid in his mug and focused on the club across the street. After a few minutes, he attempted a casual conversation.

“Ya been spendin’ a lot of time with Josie lately.”

The corners of Vin’s eyes crinkled with amusement, but he repressed a smile at Chris’s attempt at nonchalance. Impassively, he replied, “Yep.” When neither spoke for a moment, Vin glanced over his shoulder at Chris and asked pointedly, “Whaddya wanna know, Chris?”

Chris looked at his friend, then looked back out the window. “Nothin’,” he replied, taking another sip of coffee, “Not a thing.”

Slumping down in his chair, the team leader settled his head against the backrest. Closing his eyes, he said, “Wake me if something happens.”

Vin grinned and returned to watching the scene across the street.

+ + + + + + +

Before they even got inside the door of Lucky’s Dance Hall, Buck had plenty of offers for dates for the evening. While he joined the line dance on the sawdust-covered dance floor, JD and Casey seated themselves at a table near the edge of the room.

“JD,” Casey complained, “Come on! Let’s dance!”

JD shook his head, taking a large gulp of his root beer, “I’m not dancing to that, Casey. No way. That’s the kinda stuff Buck can get away with, but not me. I’d look like a fool out there.” After a thought, he added, “And so would you.”

Casey rolled her eyes in frustration. “Why’d ya call me an’ tell me to meet ya here if ya ain’t plannin’ on dancin’, JD.”

JD shrugged and took another swig from the frosty mug. Casey fell back into her chair with an exasperated sigh and crossed her arms in front of her chest. A pout quickly replaced her cheerfulness.

On the dance floor, Buck continued to kick up his heels with anyone who would allow him the honor. When the tempo slowed, a pretty woman in her mid-forties sidled up to Buck and offered her arms to him. He smiled valiantly and accepted, gliding her smoothly around the room to the beat of the music. The woman quickly became enamored and secretly decided she would not go home alone that night. And Buck’s radiant smile cemented her decision.

+ + + + + + +

Attired in a black suit and chauffeur’s cap, Josiah Sanchez fit the part of driver handsomely. Next to him in the front seat of the rented sedan sat Nathan Jackson, clothed more casually but still stylish enough to be associated with Ezra. As they drove toward Radissi’s, their passengers discussed the details of the evening from their places in the back seat.

“As soon as you see an opening,” Ezra said to Amelia, “excuse yourself to the ladies’ room. I ‘ll keep Kepplen involved for a while, but you will have to work quickly. I doubt he’ll allow me much of his valuable time.”

Amelia nodded, placing a reassuring hand on Ezra’s arm. “I’ve got it, Ezra. Relax. It won’t take long to search his office. I’ve done this sort of thing a thousand times. I’ll be back at the table before you even realize I’m gone.”

Ezra acknowledged her ability and placed his hand over hers. He looked into her eyes apologetically, and she rewarded him with a bright smile.

Cheerfully, she said, “Have fun!”

Ezra’s mouth turned up into a smile, but his eyes did not. He squeezed her hand gently and turned to watch the city as they neared the restaurant.

When they arrived, Josiah opened the rear door and waited for Ezra to exit. As Amelia gracefully stepped from the car, Ezra looked up into Josiah’s face. Josiah offered him a slow tip of his hat and a calm gaze that inspired strength. Ezra took a deep breath and stood tall.

Placing Amelia’s hand through his arm, Ezra escorted her into the club, followed closely by their bodyguard Nathan, who was taking in every detail of their surroundings. The couple was quickly escorted to their table, with Ezra making it clear he needed to speak with Edward Kepplen at once, and Nathan found a station nearby but out of the way where he had a view of everyone in the room. Once the maitre d’ left them alone, Amelia leaned close to Ezra and turned his face toward hers.

Looking into his eyes for a long moment, she finally smiled dreamily and placed her lips on his. She kissed him tenderly, barely applying pressure and lingering only a few seconds. When she drew away, she moved only slightly until her nose rested next to his. Her eyes still closed, she whispered, “Fun, darlin’. Just like old times.” As she moved back she brushed the tip of her nose along his, then looked into his eyes again. The kiss had the desired effect.

Ezra relaxed and brought her hand to his lips for a gentle kiss. His eyes were softer now, less disturbed. And this made Amelia smile again.

Edward Kepplen joined them within minutes, profuse apologies emitting from his lips.

“I am so sorry, Ezra, for any inconvenience I have caused you. It was never my intention.”

Ezra returned to the role he was to play. “Edward,” he began, “while it may not have been your intention, I was cast aside today by too many of your employees. And I don’t consider that good business.” Leveling his eyes on Kepplen, he added, “Do you?”

Kepplen immediately shook his head. “I assure you, I had no idea.”

Ezra narrowed his eyes. “Then I am very disturbed.” He waited a beat then continued, “If I cannot reach you at any time, for any reason, I’m not convinced we are meant to be in business together. I prefer my colleagues to be available for me when I need them.”

Kepplen nodded, “And you should expect as much. What happened earlier today will never happen again, I assure you.” Reaching into the pocket of his dinner jacket, Kepplen produced a business card and a pen. “This is my private line,” he said, scribbling on the back of the card, “You may contact me here at any time.” Handing the card to Ezra, he smiled broadly, “We were meant to be in business together.”

Ezra took the card and placed it in his jacket, nodding satisfactorily. “Very good. I suppose we can put this incident behind us. We have more important things to discuss.”

Kepplen agreed, “Yes, we do.”

At this point, Amelia spoke up. “Well, if the two of you are gonna start talkin’ business, I’m just gonna have to excuse myself. This kinda stuff bores me to tears.”

Kepplen chuckled slightly then stood with Ezra as Amelia rose from her chair. Ezra placed a hand around her waist and drew her slightly closer.

“Take all the time you want, darlin’ ” he said admiringly, then placed a quick kiss upon her cheek.

Amelia smiled sweetly and placed an index finger on his lips. She puckered her lips toward him and lowered her eyelids seductively.

“Well, okay,” she said, then moved around him, her hand trailing down his arm as she passed him.

Ezra watched Amelia as she crossed the room, unaware that Kepplen was watching him. Kepplen’s smile covered his face and caused his eyes to disappear under ample cheeks.

“You two seem to be getting along beautifully,” he remarked as Ezra returned to his seat.

Ezra agreed, “Yes. She is... an intriguing woman.” Looking at Kepplen, he said, “And I am fortunate that she was in your employ when I arrived.”

Kepplen’s smile widened even more. “Very fortunate.”

A moment later, Kepplen’s expression grew serious. “Now,” he began, “we have much to discuss.”

Ezra mirrored the expression, retrieving a small notepad from within the breast pocket of his jacket. “We certainly do.”

+ + + + + + +

Amelia was in and out of Kepplen’s office in ten minutes. She found only the standard records for a manager of a restaurant, of course, but noted the perfect organization of his office. Too perfect. She had seen enough business professionals cover their tracks to know that perfect files were usually only a cover for the real business transactions. She assumed it would be found in a computerized file somewhere, but she didn’t have the time to get into his protected system. Not right then. She quickly tidied the areas through which she had searched and moved to the door.

Easily, Amelia slipped back into the hall and turned toward the restaurant’s main room again. She stopped cold when her name was called.

“Need something, Molly?”

Amelia turned to face Denny Ayala, Willa’s boyfriend. She put on her best smile.

“Nope! Actually, I was just lookin’ for Willa. I saw her earlier but haven’t been able to hook up with her since yesterday. Thought I could catch up on the dirt, ya know?”

Denny shook his head and grinned. “You girls...”

Amelia grinned back at him. “Us girls! So, have ya seen her?”

Denny replied, “She’s been sent to a private party at Covo’s. She won’t be back until after closing. I’ll tell her you asked about her.”

Amelia smiled again. “Good! You do that.” She pretended to think a moment, then continued, stepping closer to Denny and lowering her voice a little, “When are ya gonna set me up in the business, Denny?”

Denny smiled incredulously, “You?”

Amelia stood tall before him and lifted her chin proudly, “Yes, me. I want in on this. And I’d be good for ya.” She pointed one long fingernail at his chest and poked him gently. “And I think you know it.”

Denny gave her a smug look. “You probably would, Molly. But it ain’t my call.”

Amelia peered innocently into his eyes and replied, “Then introduce me to the man who makes the calls. I want in, Denny. And I’m not gonna go away quietly.”

Denny smiled admiringly. “I’ll see what I can do.”

Amelia rewarded him with an equally admiring smile. “Great! Thanks, Denny!” She began to turn away when his hand gently encircled her forearm.

As she turned back toward him, he said, “I got something for ya. A little gift. Maybe it’ll loosen up your friend over there.” Denny’s head jerked toward Ezra.

Amelia glanced slightly over her shoulder, then shook her head and wrinkled her nose. “Nah. He doesn’t go for this stuff.” With a insinuating smile, she added, “Takes other things to loosen him up.”

Denny nodded in understanding. “Well, then you can have it all to yourself.”

Amelia grinned brightly. “Sounds good to me. But, I can’t take it. Sullivan’s real particular about the people around him. He made it very clear he wouldn’t tolerate certain things. Says it fogs the brain.” She snorted at the last statement.

Looking down the hallway, Denny replied, “Well... I guess you’ll just have to work around that, won’t you? I’ll tell you what. There’s an empty office at the end of the hall. We can go there.”

Amelia glanced back toward Ezra, noting that the conversation was still going strong, then turned back to Denny with an easy smile. “Lead the way!”

+ + + + + + +

Nathan was beginning to get worried. Amelia had been gone almost half an hour, and he hadn’t seen her at all for fifteen minutes. He slowly moved to Ezra’s table and stood several feet away until Ezra acknowledged him with a glance. Nathan nodded to Ezra, Ezra nodded in return, and Nathan moved toward the hallway where Amelia had earlier gone. Kepplen was smiling slyly when Ezra’s attention returned to him.

“Security?”

Ezra frowned slightly. “Considering this afternoon’s events, I felt it necessary.”

Kepplen’s eyes darkened. “I’m worried about that, too. I’ve known Jerome for many years, and this just doesn’t seem like his style. But, I also know that he has a tendency to be lazy, and perhaps he wasn’t watching closely the men he hired to set up your apartment. I suppose anyone at all could’ve gotten inside. Even the feds, I imagine.”

Ezra looked directly at Kepplen. “Are you under intense scrutiny, Edward?”

Kepplen shook his head mournfully. “I’m afraid that this business I am in brings scrutiny regardless of my practices. If I were totally legitimate, I would still be seen in a negative light. That comes with the business. And, as I’m sure you already know, this club and several others like it, were the foothold of Emilio Covoran’s enterprise. Now that he’s no longer with us, may God rest his soul, we are simply trying to push forward and honor his memory.”

Ezra nodded in agreement, lifting his wine glass in a pretend toast. Casually, he said, “I understand that someone within Covo’s organization took over the business. If he had been father to a son, I would expect that he should take over in his father’s absence. But, Covo had no children.”

Kepplen nodded. “Correct. Emilio had no one to keep his business alive. And it has suffered greatly. That is why we each have such interest in our clubs. He granted us complete authority over the clubs we manage, with only one condition. It was a deal we couldn’t refuse. Suddenly, the profits were ours.”

Ezra quietly asked, “And that condition?”

Kepplen smiled blithely. “It is what enables you and I to transact in the manner we do.”

Ezra nodded, understanding reflecting in his eyes. “You must act as distributor.”

Kepplen replied, “I must make my resources available, if necessary.”

Ezra smiled. “Very wise, this man. Who is he, anyway?”

Kepplen’s eyes clouded again. “I’ve never met him.”

Ezra feigned surprise. “You are working for a man you’ve never met?”

Kepplen nodded slowly. “I am. It was part of the condition, as well. And part of Emilio’s dying wish. That we continue as before, with complete faith in whom he had chosen to run his enterprise. Who am I to question him? I owe him my livelihood, among other things.”

Ezra looked intently at Kepplen, studying his eyes, reading his features. Edward Kepplen was an unhappy man. Ezra looked away, taking another sip of his wine and glancing around the room. When he saw Amelia approaching, he smiled slightly and stood from his chair.

Amelia’s countenance glowed, and she was quick to greet Ezra with a sweet kiss before she sat at the table. Before she was even settled, Nathan walked toward the table. He opened his mouth to speak to Ezra, but his eyes quickly darted to Amelia, a look of surprise crossing his face. Ezra looked up at Nathan with expectancy but was relieved when he chose to move back to his earlier position at the edge of the room. Amelia glanced back over her shoulder with a bewildered expression, then looked at Ezra. Ezra simply shook his head to tell her not to give it a thought. She shrugged and did just that.

Edward Kepplen broke the silence. “Miss Engle,” he asked, “do you like to sail?”

Amelia’s face brightened immediately. “I love the water! Why?” Her eyes were dancing in anticipation.

Kepplen smiled. “I happen to have a yacht that is in dire need of attention. I’d be honored if the two of you would join me.”

Amelia beamed and quickly exclaimed, “We’ll be there!” Then, remembering her role, she looked to Ezra and asked, “Won’t we?”

Ezra grinned and took her hand in his. “Whatever you want, darlin’.”

Amelia bit her bottom lip and smiled, her eyes reducing to tiny slits and her shoulders drawing up like a child’s. Ezra and Kepplen chuckled at their companion.

“Very good. I must be out of town for the weekend, but I think Sunday would be a perfect day, if you can make it.”

Ezra responded, “We can.”

Kepplen said, “Wonderful. Sunday it is. 9:30 at the marina. I’ll have directions sent to your apartment.” Rising from his chair, he added, “And you enjoy the rest of your evening. On me.”

Amelia looked up at Kepplen and grinned broadly. “Thank you!”

Kepplen tipped his head toward her then reached to shake Ezra’s hand. Ezra tipped his head in return and said, “Edward.”

Just as Kepplen was walking away, two servers arrived with dinner for two. Amelia was more than a little impressed.

Grinning, she said, “I think I like that guy!” Ezra’s eyes shifted quickly toward her, but he refrained from comment. Her curious mood was becoming more and more apparent.

As they dined, Amelia began pointing out the patrons in the restaurant who also worked within the Covo circle. When she literally pointed at one of the more prominent players, Ezra casually took her hand in his and looked directly at her.

“Should you really be pointing, my dear?” His eyes contained a tiny bit of annoyance.

Amelia became slightly perturbed and responded flippantly, “As if anyone is lookin’ at me!”

The corner of Ezra’s mouth twisted upward on one side as he replied, “Darlin’, someone is always looking at you. They may not be watching you, but I assure you, you do not go unnoticed.” He raised his eyebrows to emphasize his point, asking also for her understanding of his meaning.

Amelia’s lips slowly eased into a grin, and she leaned toward Ezra slightly and said, “Really?” Her flirtatious nature kicked in quickly.

Ezra moved back a little and straightened in his chair, returning to his dinner but without much of an appetite. Amelia stared at him a little longer then laughed loudly, causing a few patrons to turn toward their table. She never noticed.

On the drive back to the penthouse, Nathan questioned Amelia about her search of Kepplen’s office and was surprised when she casually pointed out that there was nothing there. Nathan suddenly turned around to face her.

“Where were ya all that time if ya weren’t findin’ anything?”

Amelia stared at Nathan a moment until her eyes became narrowed. “I was doing my job,” she replied, her teeth slightly clenched. Then, accusingly, she added, “Where were you?”

Josiah looked up into the rearview mirror to catch Amelia’s expression. Nathan watched Amelia’s countenance change drastically before his eyes, her temper boiling beneath the surface and her eyes flaring with sudden anger.

He evenly replied, “I was lookin’ for you. When ya didn’t come right back, I was afraid somebody found ya.”

Amelia looked away and remarked, “I never get caught.” Then, glancing back at Nathan, she added firmly, “And I can take care of myself.”

Nathan looked into Amelia’s eyes a second longer, then turned back toward the front of the vehicle. Josiah glanced at him sideways, and they shared a look of uncertainty. Ezra caught the look but let it go. No one spoke again until they arrived at the apartment.

Josiah waited until his passengers disembarked and were safely in the private elevator before driving back out into the night. He felt pleased with his evening, having made some valuable acquaintances in the other drivers and chauffeurs at the club. He was certain there would be loose talk on occasion if he just stayed around long enough. He settled back in the driver’s seat and gripped the wheel, cranking up the volume on the radio and singing along as he drove back to the office building to brief Chris on the evening’s activities.

+ + + + + + +

In the small room across the street from the luxury apartments, Chase Donovan stared through high-powered binoculars at the entrance to the underground garage. As Josiah emerged in the blue sedan, Chase dryly made note for the record.

“Sanchez has left the building.” Chase’s enthusiasm had long since waned.

Shifting his attention to the penthouse windows, he found he could clearly make out the figures inside, and he smiled for the first time in hours as Amelia’s form moved into his sight.

Under his breath, Chase muttered, “Hello, love.”

Sitting across the room, Masen grinned slightly but continued to make notes of the arrival times. He was simply glad that Chase’s mood would now be improving.

Chase watched the scene across the street for a few minutes, finally feeling some assurance that they were secure, then placed the binoculars on a table and moved to a chair to relax. He smiled again, lost in his own thoughts while watching the apartment from the distance. But, just as quickly as it came, the smile disappeared.

Chase’s brow knit together, and he finally asked, “How many beds did they put in that apartment?”

Masen looked up pensively, trying to remember the earlier events of the day. “I think...” he began, “wasn’t there a king-sized bed in the bedroom?”

Chase stared at his partner without speaking. Masen looked back at him, not clear on the importance at first, until he saw Chase’s eyes constrict and the fuming begin.

Masen hesitantly added, “Maybe he’s going to sleep on the couch. It was a comfortable couch.”

Chase turned back to the windows, stepping closer for a better look. He could still see Amelia, but soon Ezra joined her in Chase’s sights. Chase’s eyes narrowed more.

Almost hissing, Chase stated, “That man wouldn’t sleep on a couch. You can be sure of that.”

Masen watched his partner seethe. After a long moment, Chase finally sighed and sat heavily into his chair.

Through clenched teeth, he snarled, “I really don’t like that guy.”

Masen slowly drew his eyes away from Chase, glancing across the street once, then returned to his notes. This case was turning into a very long assignment.

+ + + + + + +

Inside the apartment, Ezra and Amelia were exchanging what little information they had garnered from the evening. She felt the key might be to get into Kepplen’s computer. She was sure he kept his files stored there. Ezra was wont to agree but didn’t know exactly when they could accomplish that. He felt their best angle was still one on one with Kepplen, but he also thought they should run both ideas past Chris, just to keep him informed.

Amelia shrugged, “Whatever you wanna do. You seem to be in charge here.” She walked away as she spoke, flipping a hand into the air.

Ezra watched her curiously, glancing at Nathan for his impression. Nathan shook his head in exasperation. He’d already had enough of Amelia Eagan to last a lifetime.

She walked into the kitchenette and began to search for something to eat. Ezra called after her, “You can’t possibly be hungry.”

She turned toward him, holding the refrigerator door open, and answered, “As a matter of fact, I am. Is that a problem?” Her tone was becoming snippier with each word she spoke.

Ezra replied, “Well, no. It’s just that you ate a very large dinner, and then half of mine. How can you be hungry?”

Amelia’s shoulders dropped in aggravation, and she turned away before she spoke. Ezra and Nathan heard her sigh dramatically but were startled when she suddenly slammed the refrigerator closed and started back into the living area.

“Ya know,” she began, her eyes fiery with anger, “I don’t have to answer to either of you. This is my own time. I’ll play the ditzy little arm decoration as long as we’re out in public, but when we’re not, you two just stay outta my business. Got it?” She looked from one to the other of them until they acknowledged her. Then she nodded affirmatively. “Good! Now...I seem to have lost my appetite. I’m goin’ to bed.”

As she stormed into the bedroom, Nathan released a low whistle. Ezra looked over at him and commented, “Irish temper.”

Nathan smirked, “I don’t think that’s all it is. But I’m certainly not gettin’ in her way. My job is to stay with you. That’s all I’m gonna do.”

Ezra replied, “Actually, I believe you are required to protect the both of us.”

Nathan snorted, “Not if I can keep from it.”

Ezra grinned. “You must really dislike her if you are selecting me over anyone.”

Nathan shook his head, saying, “Trust me, Ezra. You’re a walk in the park compared to her.”

Ezra grinned and then found himself chuckling. Nathan couldn’t resist joining in.

+ + + + + + +

Buck quietly entered his home in the early hours of the morning, being careful not to disturb JD and Casey, who were slumped against each other, asleep on the couch. The television warbled on without them.

Buck watched them a minute, smiling wistfully at their young love and all its potential. Thinking about it brought a deep sigh.

Buck had been trying to remember the name of the woman from whose home he had just departed, but finally decided to give up. He didn’t plan to see her again anyway, so it was pointless to waste time on it. Still, this wasn’t like him. Even when he felt no lingering feelings for a woman, he always respected her enough to know something about her. Another sigh escaped his lips as he entered his bedroom. Within minutes he had stripped down to his shorts and collapsed on top of the bed covers. Sleep came quickly, but there was no rest to accompany it.

+ + + + + + +

Amelia had been standing in front of the bathroom mirror for a long while, but she hadn’t really seen her reflection yet. Her mind was a blur. When she finally pulled herself back to the present, she focused on the woman in the mirror. She hardly recognized the dull eyes and sallow appearance. With a deep sigh, she turned away and opened the door into the bedroom. She didn’t notice Ezra standing at the chest of drawers.

Ezra glanced over when he heard the door open then stared unwittingly as Amelia exited. His eyes traveled down the length of the long satin chemise she wore. When he drew his eyes back to her face, she had already noticed him watching her.

Ezra recovered nicely. “Another excellent choice,” he commented, noting her sleep wear.

Amelia grinned shyly, looking down and running her hands down the front of the gown. Without thinking, she said, “It’s nice, isn’t it? Not my usual, though. I’m more used to curlin’ up in Buck’s old flann...” Her eyes darted up to Ezra as her cheeks reddened. She closed her eyes and sighed in disbelief.

Quietly, she said, “Great, Amelia. Just great.”

Ezra’s face brightened and an understanding smile took over his features. “Well, now. That’s interesting. Suddenly, all the pieces fall into place.”

Amelia moved to the bed, hanging her head, and sat down heavily. “You can’t say anything, Ezra. Buck doesn’t want anyone to know.”

Ezra continued to grin but asked, “And why is that?”

Amelia sighed. “It’s a complex situation. There are just some things to deal with before we can be seen together.”

Ezra quickly said, “Such as... Chris Larabee, perhaps?”

Amelia’s eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. She started to respond but found no words. Her mouth opened more.

Ezra laughed. “Darlin’. You wear your emotions on your sleeve. And you are one of the most transparent people I’ve ever known. It was Chris Larabee who broke your heart all those years ago, was it not?”

Amelia sadly replied, “How’d you know that?”

Ezra tilted his head slightly and studied her, then replied, “I can see it in your eyes when you’re required to be near him. And...” he waited for her to look at him, “I can see it in him, as well. There’s too much tension, too much concern for there not to have been an intense history between you. And, if you’ll remember, you shared the whole experience with me when we first worked together. It didn’t take much to put a face to that man once I was in the presence of the both of you.”

Amelia sighed and dropped her head again. “I’m that obvious?”

Ezra smiled compassionately. “Only to me, darlin’. Only to someone who knows you as well as I.”

Amelia met her friend’s eyes. She could only shake her head sadly.

Ezra remarked gently, “As always, your secrets are safe with me. Although, I must say, I don’t understand Mister Wilmington's secrecy.”

Amelia sighed, slumping back against her pillows. “Well, don’t waste your energy. There’s really nothing to worry about anymore, anyway.”

Ezra regarded her closely but chose not to comment. Finally he smiled to himself, taking a pair of silk pajamas from the drawer, and moved into the bathroom. Amelia lay on the bed for a few minutes, staring toward the windows but seeing nothing, then crawled under the sheets and settled in for the night. When Ezra returned, sans shirt, it was Amelia’s turn to admire. Her mouth slowly turned into a wide smile.

Catching a glimpse of her in the mirror above the dresser, Ezra raised his eyebrows in question. Her smiled broadened and gave way to a giggle.

Laughing, she said, “Forget what I said about the gym. You go any time you want, darlin’. Any time.” Her laughter increased, embarrassing only herself.

Ezra laughed with her, rather enjoying the attention. He was still smiling when he got into bed, but Amelia’s countenance was beginning to sag again.

Looking to his side, he asked, “Would you like to tell me what’s bothering you?”

Amelia’s shoulders stiffened slightly. “I’m fine, Ezra.” Glancing sideways, she said again, “I’m fine.”

Ezra stared into her eyes, noting that she quickly avoided his gaze, then turned away and reached for a book from the table beside the bed. Amelia glanced back up at him briefly, then turned to her side and clicked off her lamp. She lay with her back to him.

“Goodnight,” she said quietly.

Ezra replied, “Goodnight, darlin’.”

He stared at the page before him for fifteen minutes before he realized his mind was far away. He could hear Nathan in the living room, most likely preparing the couch for the night. Ezra knew there would be little sleep these next few days. Shutting off the lamp beside him, he slid further under the sheets and placed his arms behind his head. It would be hours before he would finally drift away, all the while listening to Amelia’s quiet, deep breathing as she lay next to him.

Chapter Six

Ezra was quietly snoring as Amelia slipped out of bed and into the dressing area to change into her Lycra running suit. She tiptoed out of the bedroom easily, never making a sound, and did the same through the living room until she reached the kitchenette. Just as she turned back from the cabinet, Nathan suddenly appeared only inches from her. She shrieked and dropped the glass tumbler in her hand. Nathan’s quick reflexes rescued the glass before it reached the floor. When he stood again to his full height, he peered down at Amelia with a hard look in his usually compassionate eyes.

“You plannin’ on goin’ somewhere?” he asked, still towering over her tall frame.

Amelia met his stare, her own eyes mirroring the challenge he presented. “I’m goin’ for a run. It’s what I try to do in the mornings.”

Nathan stepped back slightly to look at her on level ground. “You’re not goin’ alone.”

Amelia looked directly into Nathan’s eyes and responded, “Then you’d better keep up with me.”

His smile was more of a smirk as he replied, “I didn’t say I was goin’ runnin’ with ya. But you’re not goin’ alone.”

She eyed him curiously, saying, “Well, if you think Ezra’s gonna get out of bed to run, you obviously don’t know Ezra.”

Nathan regarded her a moment then said, “How 'bout we be straight with each other.”

Amelia tilted her head in acknowledgement, her mouth twisting slightly at the corners. “Fine with me.”

In an authoritative manner, Nathan said, “You’re not on this case alone. But you’re actin’ like it. An’ I’m sorry that ya don’t like havin’ to deal with me. Truth is, I don’t care much for you, either. You’re too high-strung. But Chris gave me a responsibility, and I’m gonna do that as best I can. So, you ain’t goin’ runnin’ alone, and I ain’t goin’ with ya. I guess what that means is you’ll be stayin’ in this mornin’.”

Amelia admired the man’s honesty. Still, she was determined. “You tell Chris what you just told me. And then you can tell him I went anyway.” And with that, she shoved her way past Nathan and started toward the entry hall.

Nathan was a little surprised at first, but his instincts told him to chase after her. After three steps, he stopped. Under his breath, he mumbled, “I’m not doin’ this. I’m not a babysitter.” He changed direction and went to the windows to watch the street below. Once he saw Amelia come out of the building and begin to jog down the avenue, he moved away and picked up his cellphone to call Chris. He wasn’t looking forward to the conversation.

+ + + + + + +

Chris had been asleep for only two hours when the phone rang. He grumbled loudly and reached for it with his eyes still closed. Several things fell off the bedside table before he actually found the receiver and stopped the incessant ringing that was beginning to drive him mad.

Gruffly, Chris answered, “What?”

Standing in the living room of the penthouse, Nathan cringed slightly at the sound of the team leader’s voice. “Sorry, Chris,” he began, “I wouldn’t have called if it wasn’t important.”

Chris lay still for a moment, processing the familiar voice and allowing the fog to clear from his mind. Finally, his voice still heavy with sleep, he replied, “What is it, Nathan?” and sat up in his bed to aid the waking process.

Nathan was hesitant to relay the whole story over the phone, so he chose his words carefully. “I think we might have a problem, Chris,” he began, “with Amelia.”

Chris groaned slightly and shook his head, mumbling, “Why am I not surprised?”

Nathan swallowed hard and continued, “I don’t really wanna get into it over the phone, but I think we oughta sit down and talk about some things. If we don’t, there’s gonna be some problems down the road.”

Chris twisted to the side and placed his bare feet on the floor beside the bed, leaning forward to rest his forehead on his hand. He sighed quietly.

“Okay,” he said, “You get everybody over to the offices. I’ll be there at ten.”

Nathan nodded, replying, “We’ll be there. Thanks, Chris.” Pausing, he then added, “I’m sorry I had to get ya outta bed for this.”

Chris’s exhale could be heard through the phone. “You didn’t, Nathan,” he replied somewhat harshly, “This isn’t your fault.” He sighed again and replaced the receiver on its base.

Chris sat on the edge of his bed a long while, his head hanging low from his shoulders. Finally, he inhaled a long slow breath and stood to his feet. Starting toward the shower, he grumbled quietly, “What have you done now, Molly?”

+ + + + + + +

Amelia’s mind was in another place as she ran through the streets of downtown Denver. She had stopped seeing people and places and was now lost in her own thoughts of her relationships, the present case and her career itself. She never saw the man who stepped in front of her from the alley to her right.

Denny Ayala grabbed Amelia’s shoulders to stop her from running him down. Her face was full of sudden fright, her eyes wide with surprise.

Gasping for breath, Amelia’s voice rose high as she exclaimed, “Denny! Ya scared me to death!” She bent at the waist trying to slow her rapid heartbeat and level her breathing.

Denny chuckled slightly. “Where were you, girl?”

Amelia glanced up at him sideways and replied, “I just wasn’t payin’ attention.” As she stood, she gave him an uncertain look. “Where’d you come from? And how’d you know I’d be here?”

Denny smiled broadly and said, “I saw you running earlier, and I knew you’d have to come back this way. I just waited in the alley. I needed to talk to you.”

Amelia’s eyes filled with surprise as she replied excitedly in her best Molly voice, “Were you coming to Sullivan’s apartment?”

Denny nodded, “Yeah, I needed to talk to you.”

Amelia looked straight into Ayala’s eyes and said firmly, “Don’t ever come to his place. Ya got that? Do you have any idea what he’ll do to me if he thinks I’m involved with you? You find me somewhere else. Don’t ever come to his place. And don’t ever come to me when I’m with him. I promise you, he won’t like me dealing with you. He has very strict rules about this sort of stuff.”

Denny shook his head in amusement. “Chill, girl! I ain’t gonna ruin your little fairy tale. I’ll stay clear. I just needed to talk to you.”

Amelia settled down and gave him her full attention, still shaken and even more untrusting. “Alright,” she said cautiously, “You found me. What’s up?”

Denny took her arm and guided her back toward the alley, stopping at the corner of a building and lowering his voice as he spoke. “Did you mean what you said last night? You want in on the business?”

Amelia’s attention became rapt. “I meant what I said. Ya got somethin’ for me?”

Denny nodded. “I talked to my boss, and he said to bring you in for a trial. If you do well for a while, then you can move to the bigger things. You still interested?”

Amelia nodded, her eyes steady on Denny. “I’m interested. What do I need to do?”

Denny replied, “Not now. You need to meet Willa at the capitol building this afternoon. One o’clock. She’ll be waiting for you when you get there, and she’ll have all the details. If you still wanna get in, be there at one.”

Amelia nodded. “I’ll be there.”

Denny replied, “Okay. You do this well, and I’m sure my boss’ll set you up.”

Amelia grinned widely. “Great!”

As they parted company, Denny jogging across the street to his car, Amelia felt a chill run down her spine. She walked the next few blocks back to the apartment building in deep thought, but her eyes took in every detail of her surroundings. When she stepped from the penthouse elevator, she walked directly to where Nathan was sitting at the dining table.

Extending her hand to him, she proclaimed, “Truce.”

Nathan looked into her eyes and saw genuine sincerity. He accepted her hand and shook it firmly. As Amelia was stepping away and moving toward the kitchen, he asked, “What changed your mind?”

Amelia tried her best to be casual in her response, but she knew she was probably as transparent as Ezra had said she was. Taking a pitcher of juice from the refrigerator, she began to fill a glass as she spoke.

“Denny Ayala was waiting for me in an alley three blocks from here.” She noticed her hands were shaking some and opted not to take a drink just yet. Meeting Nathan’s eyes, she said, “I never even saw him until I practically ran him over.”

Nathan and Amelia stared at each other a long moment before Nathan sighed and began to shake his head slowly in aggravation. Amelia waited for his tirade.

Surprisingly calm, Nathan stated, “Let’s agree not to go anywhere alone from now on, okay?”

Amelia didn’t have to be convinced. Nodding assuredly, she agreed, “Okay.”

Nathan returned to his newspaper, not so certain anymore that the meeting with Chris was such a good idea. Still, if he knew Chris like he thought he did, there would be no way to convince the man to call it off.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra was still half asleep when they arrived at the temporary offices of the ATF/Vice teams. He had been up for a little while, had already downed two cups of Nathan’s horribly strong coffee, and had managed to skim the pages of the morning paper, but his eyes were refusing to open completely at this still-early hour of his morning. And the last thing he wanted to do on any given morning was meet with Chris Larabee. He immediately poured another cup of coffee upon entering the inner office and found a vacant chair in which to recline with his head against the wall and his eyes closed.

Nathan searched for Chris as they entered the room that was already bustling with activity. The surveillance on Radissi’s never slowed, and day’s were filled with detectives and agents traveling in and out of the suite of rooms as they gathered and exchanged information before moving on to their various meetings and monitoring locations. There were so many people under watch in this case that Nathan had forgotten who was in charge of watching whom. With all the minor players, the dealers, the club managers and the middlemen, it was easy to become confused. Nathan preferred to concentrate on only his area of responsibility, although he kept himself up on what the other members of his regular team were doing.

Not seeing Chris, Nathan moved to speak with Buck and JD about the surveillance notes from the night before.

JD had come on shift at four, relieving Chris and Vin, and had been surprised to notice Edward Kepplen return to his club at that hour. It had been over two hours since the last of the club’s employees had gone home, and it was highly unusual for Kepplen to be there that early.

JD added, “I just figured he’d forgotten something, but then a cab pulled up and let someone out at the door of the club.”

Buck interjected, “One of those girls that works there. The one that moved up with Amelia.”

Overhearing her name, Amelia turned toward the small group of men and stepped forward. “What’s that?” she said to Buck, her eyes suddenly very focused on him.

Buck met her stare but quickly looked away, knowing his eyes would betray his touchy emotions. When he did not answer her, Amelia looked down at JD expectantly.

JD was quick to respond. “Well, Kepplen met that girl…you know…that one you worked with when they brought you up to this club.”

Amelia supplied the name, “Willa?”

JD nodded enthusiastically, “Yeah. That’s her. Willa. She met Kepplen here at the club this morning right after four, four-thirty or so.”

Amelia’s eyes narrowed pensively. “Why would Willa be meeting Kepplen? And at that time of the morning?”

Buck quietly pondered, “Maybe they’re having some kinda fling or somethin’.”

Amelia shook her head slowly. “I don’t think so. Wouldn’t make sense. She’s got this boyfriend that treats her badly on occasion. If she was involved with Kepplen, why keep that guy on the side? Why not take the one that treats you better? And has more money to treat you better.”

Buck simply looked at Amelia and didn’t answer. Nathan considered, “Kepplen’s married, isn’t he? If he had this girl he was seeing, he wouldn’t really want anyone to know about it, right? And they’d have to meet like that. When no one would see them?”

JD added, “They were awfully friendly, from what I saw. Like they knew each other pretty well.”

Amelia’s forehead creased as she considered this revelation. “I still don’t think it makes sense.”

Disheartened, Nathan replied, “Not much about this case makes sense, does it? I guess we’ll just have to wait and see what happens.”

Frustration enveloped them as the officers reluctantly agreed with Nathan’s assessment. As Chris entered the room, Nathan turned to meet him, giving Amelia the opening to leave the little group as well. Buck followed her.

Drawing up beside her at the coffee table, he said in a hushed voice, “You look tired.”

Amelia smiled slightly, her eyes dropping lazily, and replied, “I am, Buck. We don’t get much sleep these days. Late nights and all.” She filled a cup with the steaming liquid and looked over her choices of fillers. She secretly wished Buck away.

Moving to lean against the table, he turned so he could look at her face more fully. “But it’s goin’ okay?” he asked.

Amelia sighed and closed her eyes. This was the last thing in the world she wanted to do at that moment. Trying to sound polite, she shrugged and replied, “We’re laying groundwork. So far, so good.”

Buck’s hand moved from where it rested on his leg and began to draw near Amelia’s face. Her eyes darted toward him suddenly, a look of surprise mixed with confusion. Buck’s arm stopped in midair then slowly returned to its resting position. He was surprised at his own action, as well. They looked at each other without knowing what to say. Until Ezra strolled up behind Amelia.

His calm Southern drawl brought her back to the moment. “They’re ready.”

Amelia glanced over her shoulder and caught Ezra’s eyes. They were full of understanding and compassion. She regained composure and nodded. “Okay.”

She quickly looked at Buck but never met his eyes, then followed Ezra to the meeting room where Chris and Nathan were waiting. As he neared the door, Ezra stepped aside to allow Amelia to enter then placed his hand on her shoulder as she passed him. Buck could see Ezra’s reassuring squeeze from his place a few feet away. He knew then that things had definitely changed between himself and Amelia.

Just before Ezra and Amelia joined them, Nathan was explaining to Chris that he might have jumped the gun a little.

He said, “I think we’ve worked it out. I was a little premature in callin’ ya.”

Chris shook his head and replied, “Where Amelia’s concerned, it’s never premature.” Nathan had no time to respond before the two agents joined them in the room. Josiah followed directly behind.

Seating themselves around the table, none of the agents looked at each other but rather into a space directly in front of their eyes. These were the type of meetings everyone dreaded.

Chris began immediately. “Alright. What’s the problem here?”

No one spoke up right away, but the silence got the better of Nathan and he had to confess his reservations.

“Well,” he began, “like I told ya, I was worried that things were startin’ off on a bad foot. Amelia and I didn’t really see eye to eye on my part in this. I figured it might cause some problems later on. But,” he looked to Amelia and met her eyes with a slight smile, “I think we got it worked out.”

Chris directed his attention to Amelia. “That right?”

Amelia forced herself to avoid the hostility she was feeling, and replied quietly, “That’s right.”

Chris looked back and forth between his ATF agent and the vice detective. Finally, he said, “I realize we don’t all like each other. And I’m not askin’ you to. I don’t care if you can’t stand the sight of the people you’re workin’ with. What I care about is that you can put it aside when you need to and do your job. So…” he paused and looked at Amelia pointedly, “can we do that?”

Amelia met Chris’s stare with surprised eyes. She hated that he singled her out. She stared into those cold green eyes a long moment before responding.

“Like he said,” she remarked bitterly, “we’ve worked it out.”

Chris’s eyes didn’t move from Amelia’s. The others in the room began to glance at each other, then back at the two cops. Ezra focused his full attention on Chris, his eyes tightening at the corners.

Chris finally leaned back in his chair and looked at his other agents. “Good.”

Amelia slowly drew her eyes from Chris, choosing instead to study a particular spot on the conference table. Ezra glanced sideways at her then returned his attention to Chris.

Chris thought a moment about his next statement before beginning. “I’m revising the responsibilities here. I think it might be best to give you a partner, Nathan. Someone to work with you in this role.”

Nathan’s eyes reflected slight confusion. “Why?”

Chris looked at him and replied, “Because, the longer this case runs, the more involved Ezra and Amelia will be getting. And I may need to use you somewhere else. I’m gonna put somebody else in there with you. Someone who can split the time and make the days shorter. A second bodyguard.”

Ezra and Amelia looked back at Chris. He noticed them, but remained focused on Nathan for the moment.

“This way,” he continued, “you don’t have to be on call twenty-four hours. It’s best for everyone.”

With that, he looked at Amelia. “Do you have a problem with Vin Tanner?”

Amelia’s heart fell heavily into her stomach, and her eyes widened in astonishment. Gritting her teeth to gain composure, she murmured, “No.”

Chris nodded and replied, “Good. Because your only other choice is me.”

Amelia mumbled, “I’ll take Vin.”

The two agents stared bitterly at each other until Amelia felt her emotions threaten to rise in her throat. She looked away and studied the table again. The room was filled with uncomfortable silence. Chris let that silence remain for a lengthy minute.

Finally, he looked at Ezra and asked, “What’s the plan?”

Ezra wasn’t prepared to answer. He glanced at Amelia, noticing her discomfort and the slight tremble in her hands, then looked back up at Chris.

“We think the key to some of the information we need may be in Kepplen’s computer at the club. Hopefully, his records of transaction. He is presently out of town until Sunday. We’ll be going into his office tonight.”

Chris shifted his gaze from Ezra to the others then back to Ezra. “How will you get in the computer?”

Ezra quickly responded, “Amelia can do that.”

Amelia’s shoulders stiffened slightly but only Ezra noticed. Chris seemed somewhat surprised but didn’t comment. He simply lowered his eyes as he considered the plan, then began nodding.

“Okay,” he said, looking back at his team, “Just be careful, and let me know what you find.”

Ezra tipped his head to the team leader and dryly replied, “Of course.”

With that, Chris stood and walked from the room, leaving the four members of his team alone. Nathan and Josiah noticed Amelia’s shaken demeanor. They glanced at each other then stood and followed Chris’s departure. Ezra remained seated and watched Amelia as she fought to steady her hands. After a moment, her reached over and placed his hand upon her trembling one. He saw her eyes close tightly as she drew in a sharp breath of air. Then she slid her hand from beneath his and stood from the table, moving to look out the windows. Ezra waited a moment, then crossed the room to stand beside her.

Quietly, her voice choked with emotion, she said, “He just hates me so much.”

Ezra looked at her with saddened eyes, his hand brushing her hair away from her face, and replied, “Hate is a rather strong word.”

Amelia’s shoulders lurched as she broke down and gave way to her tears. Surprised, Ezra whispered, “Oh, darlin’…” and drew her into his embrace. She cried on his shoulder for several minutes until she was able to compose herself again. Ezra released her when she drew away to lean against the edge of the table.

Amelia tearfully looked into Ezra’s eyes, remembering how sensitive a man he had always been. She managed a smile.

With a deep sigh, she asked, “Did you ever know Sarah? Chris’s wife?” Ezra shook his head, and Amelia quickly added, “Right. You were still in Atlanta.” She sighed. “She was probably the closest a person really gets to being an angel.” Her eyes lifted to meet Ezra’s. “I imagine she’s become that even more since he lost her.”

Ezra shifted his gaze downward but didn’t respond. Amelia continued.

“She’s the reason Chris left me. Took one look at her, and I ceased to exist from then on.” Ezra glanced back up and met her eyes, waiting for her to finish her thought. “The hardest part is that I loved her as much as everyone else. I couldn’t hate her for stealing his heart. And I couldn’t blame him for falling for her. So…I blamed myself. But I never really let him go.” She leveled her gaze at Ezra. “He knows that. He knows that I probably still love him, and he uses it to keep me under his thumb. Because we both know that I’ll never get him back.” She drew in a ragged breath and added, “My whole life fell apart when he dumped me.”

Ezra tilted his head as he considered what she was saying. He waited for her to continue but saw that she had no more to say. Finally, he placed his hands on either side of her face, lifted her head until he could look directly into her eyes, and said firmly, “I realize that your heart still stings with betrayal and feelings of inadequacy. And I don’t suspect that it will subside for a very long while. But, Amelia, it has been many years since those days. And we will not live in the past. Not you. Nor I. Understand?” Ezra sincerely hoped his tone was convincing enough for her.

Amelia’s eyes filled with tears once more but her resolve remained intact. She nodded slightly, trying to smile but failing. Ezra stared further into her eyes.

“What happened with you and Chris has no bearing on the present. And, whether you believe it or not, he does not mandate what you become. Only you can do that.” He paused, sliding his hands to gently cup her jaw. “Right now…I need you. And I believe in you. And, darlin’, I cannot do this alone.”

Amelia stared into Ezra’s eyes, her heart racing and her breath held. After a second, she sighed.

Pressing her forehead against his, she closed her eyes and whispered with a sigh, “You are so amazing.”

Ezra couldn’t resist a smile, and he wrapped his arms around her shoulders and embraced her with a reassuring hug. “As are you, my darlin’. As are you.”

Once Amelia had collected herself, the two agents retreated back into the other office to join the rest of their team. Nathan and Josiah had been ready to leave for some time. Amelia’s countenance betrayed that she had been crying, and this allowed her an uninterrupted exit. While Chris noticed, he immediately looked back to the paperwork he held. Buck, on the other hand, didn’t take his eyes off of her. And when he saw the intimate smile that Ezra gave her as he courtly opened the door, his heart sank. He realized then what he wouldn’t earlier admit. Whatever it was that they had, it was now over. Before it really had a chance to begin.

+ + + + + + +

After switching cars twice en route back to the penthouse, the team of four managed to return with no signs of being discovered. It was always a challenge to meet at the offices, never certain that they weren’t being watched. But, at least this time, everything seemed fine.

There was just enough time for them to regroup before Amelia’s meeting with Willa at the capitol building. She wouldn’t be wearing a wire for this first meeting, so that gave them all some extra time. As Amelia took a little private time to regroup, Ezra, Nathan and Josiah discussed the plan for that evening.

Ezra began, “Amelia is certain she can get in and out of his computer, if she has enough time. I’ll go with her and guard the door, but if someone should happen by, I want you beside me, Nathan.”

Nathan replied, “Actually, it’ll be Vin. While we were waiting for you to come out of the conference room, Chris set it up so Vin’ll be with ya tonight. I’ll come back tomorrow afternoon.”

Ezra’s eyes glazed over slightly, but he simply nodded. “Fine.” Taking a deep breath, he looked at Josiah. “Will you be joining us this evening?”

Josiah revealed his warm, friendly smile. “Always at your service, Mister Sullivan.” He smiled again broadly, exposing all of his teeth.

Ezra rolled his eyes. “Very well,” he sighed, “I intend to make this a short evening for us all. I want to get in and get right back out as quickly as possible. Whatever you two…” He sighed again. “Whatever you and Mister Tanner need to do to make that possible, please feel free. I am truly exhausted.”

Josiah nodded, placing a strong hand on Ezra’s shoulder. “I’m sure we can all use some rest tonight.”

Ezra nodded, closing his eyes a moment and pressing his fingers against the lids. Quietly, he remarked, “That, we certainly can.”

+ + + + + + +

Vin walked beside Amelia for several blocks but neither said a word until they arrived in front of the capitol building. Amelia finally turned to her newest bodyguard, finding that they were virtually the same height.

She grinned shyly and said, “I guess Chris warned ya about me.”

Vin shrugged slightly. “Not really. Said ya had a temper.” Amelia noticed a slight twinkle in the man’s blue eyes.

She chuckled, nodding her head. “That I do. But, I suppose that’s why he sent you. You seem pretty…even.”

Vin grinned, his eyes taking on a mischievous look, “I’ve been known to get mad from time to time.”

Amelia studied his eyes, then grinned. “It’s always the quiet ones.”

Vin raised his eyebrows and dryly said, “Or not.”

Amelia smiled, pleased with Vin’s sense of humor, then glanced over her shoulder toward her friend on the park bench. Taking a deep breath, she looked back at Vin and said, “Well…I guess it’s time.”

Vin nodded, then followed her a few more steps before allowing her to proceed alone. His presence was to be obvious but not obtrusive.

Amelia reached Willa before her friend realized she was approaching. Willa’s eyes were red and puffy from crying. Immediately Amelia forgot her main goal and sought to comfort the young woman.

“Sweetie,” Amelia began, “what’s wrong?” She placed a gentle arm around her friend’s shoulders, drawing close to her and looking into her eyes.

Willa sniffled. “Molly. I’m sorry. It’s nothing. I thought I’d be fine by the time you got here. I’m sorry.”

Amelia shook her head. “Don’t be sorry, Willa. Just tell me what’s wrong. Please. I’m worried about you.”

Willa looked into her friend’s eyes, surprised by the compassion she saw there. Forgetting all else, Willa began to cry again. Amelia held her until she could speak, gently rocking her friend back and forth in a soothing motion.

Trying to regain some dignity, Willa began, “Molly, I need to tell someone this. Promise me you won’t say anything?”

Amelia’s chest tightened, hating to have to do this, but she nodded and said, “Promise.”

Willa nodded and looked at her wringing hands. “A few months ago, I met my father for the first time.” She looked back to Amelia. “I’ve never even known his name.” Amelia nodded and urged her friend to continue. Willa took a deep breath, and then years of repressed emotion began to flow as her words spilled out in waves.

“He wanted to get to know me, now, after I’ve lived my whole life without him. And…” she sniffled and tried to stop the tears that were threatening to return, “He’s not the man I always wanted in a father, ya know? He’s got businesses that aren’t exactly on the up and up. And…Molly, I always wanted my father to come back to me and my mother, but now. I’m scared, Molly. I mean, with Denny, what I do for him, that’s not too dangerous. I just give out information, ya know? But, this man…my father…he’s into some really dangerous stuff. And I don’t want my mother close to that. I don’t wanna be around that. But…he’s my father. After all this time, I finally have a father. And he wants to know me, and he wants to make things right with us. He wants to be with my mother again.” The tears began to flow again, and Amelia pulled her friend close and comforted her while she cried.

For Amelia, things started to fall into place. Willa’s meeting with Kepplen in the early morning hours. The intimacy. It was not a tryst. It was family. Amelia felt sudden relief but, at the same time, this complicated matters immensely. The last thing she wanted was for Willa to become caught in the middle of federal agencies and the Covo takedown. Her heart was heavy as she considered the possibilities.

Though Willa was sorrowful and still on the verge of tears, she also knew she was meeting Amelia for a reason. Willa quickly supplied Amelia with the information for a small drop-off of cocaine to one of the clubs under the Covoran name. Amelia would simply be a delivery person. While it wasn’t much by way of getting into the business, it was a start. And Amelia took it eagerly.

As the two women finally parted, Amelia tried to assure her friend that all would turn out for the best, but her words came out flat. There was no guarantee of that. When Amelia rejoined Vin for the walk back to their car, she relayed only the information regarding the drug delivery and nothing about Willa.

As Vin opened the passenger door for Amelia, he asked, “That girl gonna be okay?”

Amelia looked down the street to where Willa was waiting for her bus. She sighed. “I don’t know, Vin. I really don’t know.”

Vin’s eyes traveled down the street as well. Shutting the car door, he muttered to himself, “Too many innocents.” With a sigh, he climbed behind the wheel and took them back to the apartment where they would prepare for that evening’s task.

+ + + + + + +

Radissi’s was barely half full when the party of two arrived with bodyguard in two. Ezra and Amelia were escorted immediately to what was becoming Ezra’s usual table. Vin positioned himself near an exit on the edge of the room, virtually unseen to the patrons.

It was still early, so the usual players hadn’t made their appearances yet. Just what Ezra had hoped. With fewer eyes to watch them, this would be easier to pull off. Amelia fell quickly into her role of armpiece, ogling over Mister Sullivan and caring very little for anything else. After ten minutes or so, they left their table and casually moved toward the hall near the offices. Glancing over his shoulder, and knowing Vin was watching his back, Ezra surmised that it was safe to put the plan into action.

The hallway was empty outside Kepplen’s office. Ezra escorted Amelia to the door, then watched the hallway as she picked the lock. Ezra placed his hand on the doorknob but waited before letting her in. She looked into his eyes when he hesitated.

Quietly, he said, “Quickly. In and out.”

She nodded, giving him a quick wink, then moved swiftly through the opening Ezra allowed her. He quickly closed the door behind her and glanced down the hall once again.

Inside Kepplen’s office, Amelia went straight to the computer behind his desk. She typed W-I-L-L-A into the dialog box requesting a password and gained instant access. With a slight chortle, she whispered, “Whaddya know. It’s never this easy.”

She quickly drew up a list of files contained in the hard drive but found nothing that seemed appropriate for her search. She clicked open a few folders, flipped through some diskettes, but had no luck. Glancing around the office, she hoped to see something that might clue her in to the whereabouts of records or files. Still nothing. She returned to the monitor before her. Sighing, she felt defeated. She had been sure this would be the key, but it was quickly becoming a dead end.

In the hallway, Ezra heard soft footsteps approaching. He waited a moment to be sure, and when he caught the shadow of someone approaching, he waited one moment more.

Then, with a sudden burst of energy, Ezra opened the door and allowed it to close behind him while he rushed toward Amelia, who was rounding the desk and coming toward the door. Though startled when she saw Ezra dashing toward her, she was even more surprised when his hands rounded her waist and picked her up from the floor. He set her on the edge of the desk with a thud, placing his mouth over hers urgently and pushing his hands under the hem of her dress then sliding them upward to her hips. Instantly, Amelia threw her arms around his neck, weaving her fingers through his hair roughly and, just as passionately, responded to his kisses. Ezra placed his body between her knees and pressed against her, pulling her hips toward him and deepening the kiss. She mirrored his actions. They continued the caress, even after they heard the office door open.

Just as quickly, the door closed.

Vin Tanner stood over the Radissi’s maitre d’, his hand on the doorknob to Kepplen’s office and his eyes burning into the young man. The man backed away a few steps, afraid to comment on what he had just seen, then turned to leave when Vin said nothing either. Vin checked that the door was closed, then turned his back to it and began to watch the hallway. A slight grin appeared on his lips.

Feeling confident that they were safe, Ezra kissed Amelia deeply once more then slowly drew away, allowing his lips to leave hers gently. Their breaths came in short gasps. Stepping back, Ezra removed his hands from beneath her dress, gingerly pulling the hemline back to its proper length and offering his assistance as she slid off the edge of the desk. Her eyes were wide with shock, but a smile appeared on her face when she looked at Ezra.

He was not smiling but met her gaze. Her smile brought a slight blush to his already flushed countenance. Amelia reached one finger to his slightly swollen lips, smiling more broadly. She ran her tongue across her own lower lip then began to chuckle.

In a whisper, she said, “Where’d you learn to do that?”

Ezra looked away, somewhat embarrassed, and, taking her hand from his mouth, replied, “Never mind. Complete your task, so we can make a hasty retreat.”

Amelia chuckled, still breathless, and glanced toward the desk. “I think I’m done. There’s nothin’ here.”

Ezra looked dejected. “Nothing?”

She shook her head, “Not that leads us to what we want. He must keep it somewhere else. But where?”

Simultaneously, they both looked around the office, but to no avail.

Ezra offered, “Where would you keep records of illegal activities?”

Amelia looked at Ezra, her brows drawn together in thought. “If I were Kepplen? I wouldn’t touch ‘em. He’s trying to run a business in this place. I’d probably let someone else...”

Ezra interrupted her, “Accountant.”

Amelia’s eyes lit up slightly and she turned to Kepplen’s desk. “Of course! What was I thinking? You don’t think he’d keep a card file or something, do you? Or a date book maybe?”

Ezra glanced across the desk as Amelia searched the unlocked drawers. Finding nothing to aid them, she sighed and returned the desk to its former state.

Finally, Ezra declared, “We should leave. Someone else can follow this avenue.”

Amelia stood from Kepplen’s chair and followed Ezra to the door. Just before they reached it, she pulled him back. Smiling, she moved her hands to his hair and began to smooth it back into some semblance of Ezra Sullivan. Looking into his eyes, she smiled wider. He simply rolled his eyes.

With a quiet giggle, Amelia said, “I don’t think I’ve ever been kissed like that.”

Ezra’s stare cut through her, and he drawled, “I sincerely doubt that is true.”

She chuckled and said quietly. “Oh, but it is true, darlin’.” Ezra rolled his eyes again.

Taking her hands from his hair and smoothing it himself, he replied, “I assure you, this is a highly unusual tactic for me.”

Amelia grinned as Ezra turned back to the door. Sarcastically, she remarked, “Sure it is.”

Ezra glanced at her once, slightly annoyed, and caused her to giggle again. He was completely unnerved by this point. Stepping into the hall, they joined Vin and made their exit unnoticed. Vin’s eyes traveled to Ezra’s hair, noticing his still rumpled appearance. He glanced at Amelia, she somewhat ruffled herself, and he repressed a chuckle. Shaking his head, he followed them toward the restaurant.

As they passed the hallway that led to the restaurant’s private lounge, Ezra stopped suddenly, tuning his ear to the music that emitted from the room. Vin and Amelia didn’t notice for several steps. When they turned back, Ezra was frowning.

“What is it?” Amelia asked, a look of concern crossing her face.

Ezra was jolted out of his trance to see his two companions staring at him. Putting on a false countenance, he replied, “Nothing. Nothing.”

Vin and Amelia looked at each other curiously, but when Ezra moved past them into the restaurant, they let it go and followed. Ezra was quiet through the remainder of dinner, finally excusing himself to the men’s room. Amelia touched his arm gently as he stood from the table.

“Are you okay?” she asked quietly, her eyes filled with worry.

Ezra smiled his usual smile. Leaning forward, he kissed her forehead and proclaimed, “Simply weary, my dear. I shall return shortly, and then, I suggest that we retire for the evening.”

Amelia nodded, attempting a smile, but the concern remained in her eyes. Something was definitely bothering him.

Ezra strolled toward the restrooms, but once out of sight of his companions, he veered down the hall toward the lounge. He knew he must be imagining it, but he had to be certain.

Cautiously, Ezra stepped through the doors of the dark and smoky lounge. His eyes immediately searched out the source of the music. And his heart sank.

Sitting at the piano, singing softly on the dimly lit stage, was Josie Cavender. Ezra stood frozen to the spot.

He listened to her as she finished her song, then was glad to see she was taking a brief recess. He waited for her to cross to the bar and ask for a glass of water, then he moved to the end of the bar and looked directly at her until she noticed his figure. She glanced over and froze.

Very slowly, Ezra drew his attention away from Josie, turning around and returning to the exit. Josie watched him retreat, not sure of what would happen next, then sighed heavily when he continued out of the room. She knew she’d be talking with him soon.

Ezra’s face was somewhat ashen when he returned to the table where Amelia waited. She was becoming increasingly concerned with his behavior. Rather than sitting again, Ezra offered his hand to Amelia and told her it was time to leave. She said nothing. Vin followed, a curious look in his eyes.

Once in the car with Josiah, Vin glanced back at Ezra and asked, “Somethin’ wrong, Ezra?”

Ezra stared out of the window. “No, Mister Tanner. I’m simply tired. Please take us home, Josiah.”

Chapter Seven

Amelia was awakened sharply in the middle of the night by Ezra’s hushed voice rising to an irritated level. She squinted into the darkness of the bedroom, searching for the direction of his voice and noticing the absence of a body to go with it. Finally, she was able to tune in well enough to realize he was in the dressing area just off of the bathroom. She sat up in bed and strained to hear his conversation.

Sitting in the darkness amongst the shoes, Ezra struggled to keep his voice down. “I don’t care,” he whispered harshly, “and I’m not discussing this with you over the phone. I must meet with you. We cannot discuss this now.” Ezra bit the inside of his lip as he fought the frustration that rose with the other party’s response. “No,” he said, “No! Tomorrow morning. Meet me at six-thirty. In that quaint little park you found last year.” His body relaxed as he listened to the reply. “Yes, the one outside the city.” Ezra smiled, closing his eyes as he remembered. “That’s the one. Six-thirty. And I won’t have much time, so please be prompt.” His shoulders bristled as he waited. “I wasn’t saying that. I just wanted you to understand the import?” Ezra sighed and listened again. “I know that you are. Please. Can we not argue right now?” He waited. “Well, that will depend on you, I suppose.” And he sighed again. “I’m sorry. I have to go now. Six-thirty.” Relaxing, a sad smile returned to his face. “I am sorry for being harsh. It’s just important that we discuss this.” Ezra’s head fell low as he stared at the floor in front of him. Finally he sighed, “Goodnight,” and clicked off his cellphone.

Amelia hurried to lie down in bed again as she heard Ezra complete his conversation. He exited the closet cautiously, but seeing Amelia still sleeping, proceeded to the kitchen for a glass of water. Or perhaps something stronger. As soon as he left the room, she jumped out of bed and retrieved her own phone, stepping onto the terrace and closing the door behind her.

When Ezra returned, he noticed Amelia was no longer in bed. A quick scan of the uninhabited room led him to the terrace, where he found her leaning on the brick balustrade and looking out over the city. She was clad in only a short chemise, but the chilly night air didn’t seem to bother her.

“Trouble sleeping?” Ezra asked as he stepped through the French doors onto the terrace.

Amelia barely looked around. “Restless, I guess,” she replied, her eyes still focused on the city lights, “Was a pretty busy night, ya know.”

Ezra nodded silently, then suddenly remembered. “I never even asked you. How was the delivery?”

Amelia shrugged. “Routine. I just took those little packets right inside the club. Tucked neatly away in all the little nooks and crannies I could find.” She ran her hand down the front of her torso, twisting her hips back and forth, alluding to her body’s natural hiding places. Then she added, “Not an easy feat, you realize. My clothes don’t exactly cover much these days.”

Ezra smiled a little and nodded. “True. But,” he looked at her with a knowing glint in his eye, “you are resourceful, and I have complete faith in your ability to smuggle anything wherever it must go.”

Amelia smiled, raising her chin into the air. “Ah, you do know me well,” she drawled.

Ezra laughed with her then placed a quick kiss on her temple. “That I do. Goodnight, darlin’. You should try to rest.”

She nodded and replied, “I will. Not tired, just yet.”

Ezra studied her intently, a slight question in his eyes, but then turned away and returned to the bedroom. When Amelia knew he was gone, she sighed in relief, rubbing her forehead. She felt like the best actress in the world at that moment. And she hated it. Stepping back to the bedroom, she pulled the cellphone from its hiding place in a potted ficus tree and dropped it in her purse as she crossed the room toward the kitchen. Ezra watched her from his place in bed then felt a slight twinge of sadness as he closed his eyes and tried to sleep.

+ + + + + + +

At five-thirty in the morning, Ezra was dressed casually in slacks and a sweater, and still he looked immaculate. Amelia had never returned to bed, so he was not surprised to find her in the living room, also dressed, watching the morning news.

Concerned, he asked, “Did you sleep at all?”

Amelia shrugged, “A little, I guess.” She avoided his stare by focusing her attention on the television.

Ezra opened his mouth to admonish her then thought better of it. He really didn’t have the time this morning. He moved toward the front door and said, “I have an errand to attend to this morning. I should return around nine, I imagine.”

Amelia waved a hand in the air. “Whatever,” she said, nonchalantly, moving her attention to the coffee that sat before her. “Take your time. I’ve got nothing better to do.”

The sarcasm was not lost on Ezra, but he simply closed his eyes and sighed to refrain from commenting. He left the apartment without another word.

The opening of the door startled Vin Tanner into wakefulness, though he was barely asleep as he leaned against the wall in a chair outside the penthouse. He returned the chair to four legs as Ezra stepped past him.

Moving to the elevator, Ezra remarked, “Sleep well, Mister Tanner?”

Vin lazily replied, “Jus’ dozin’.”

Ezra glanced at his colleague. “There really was no reason for you to remain in the hallway last night.”

Vin shrugged again, saying, “Figured I’d be more comfortable out here than in there. We all need our privacy.”

Ezra looked at Vin uncertainly, not sure how to take his statement. But the elevator’s arrival broke that stare. He shook it off and stepped into the car, allowing the doors to close without a response. Vin leaned against the wall again and closed his eyes.

Less than a minute later, the apartment door opened again. Vin glanced sideways at Amelia as she stepped into the hall. She seemed slightly startled at Vin’s closeness to the door.

Flustered, she said, “When you guard a door, you really guard a door, dontcha?”

Vin grinned only slightly. “Lose somethin’?” he drawled suspiciously.

Amelia shook her head. “Nope. Just goin’ down to get the morning paper. They don’t bring it up this early, and... well, I’m awake, so I wanted it now. I’ll be right back.”

Vin started to stand, but she placed her hand flat against his chest and said, “Please, Vin.” Looking directly into his eyes, she lied, “I’m comin’ right back.”

Vin stared into her green eyes a long moment, then nodded and leaned back again. “Alright.” This time, his eyes remained open.

Amelia had to wait for the elevator, but when she finally was traveling downward she began to get nervous. She just hoped she could catch up with Ezra before he got too far away.

Vin watched the numbers above the elevator as it traveled downward. He noticed it passed by the lobby, then finally stopped on the garage. Cursing, he pulled out his cell phone and called Chris. She’d done it again.

Amelia stepped out of the elevator cautiously, not sure if Ezra would still be there somewhere. A quick flash of headlights to her left drew her attention. She moved quickly to the small red sports car and climbed into the passenger side.

Slamming the door, she berated the driver, “How about a more conspicuous car? Do you wanna announce our presence to him?”

Chase Donovan looked at her with raised eyebrows. “Do you want my help, or not?”

Amelia sighed. “Of course I want your help. I need your help. But let’s hurry before we lose him.”

Chase smiled arrogantly. “We won’t lose him.”

Amelia looked over and questioned dryly, “And why not?”

Chase smirked. “I put a tracer on the car.” Tapping a small monitor under the dashboard, he added, “I know exactly where he is.”

Amelia stared in amazement, then chuckled. “Naturally.” Then, a little more excitedly, she said, “Well, then, let’s go!”

Chase smiled at his own craftiness. They moved out of the parking garage and followed the path that Ezra had taken.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra drove outside the city, through several suburban neighborhoods until he reached a quiet little park on the outskirts of Northglenn. He arrived first and stayed inside the car. The interim between Ezra’s arrival and that of his companion allowed Chase and Amelia to park two blocks away on the street, within clear viewing distance of Ezra.

Ezra waited fifteen minutes before another car pulled in beside his. His watch read six-twenty-eight. He smiled slightly as he stepped out of the courtesy vehicle he had borrowed from the apartments and walked around to the passenger side where he leaned against the car.

Josie glanced over at Ezra before she exited her car. He could see the anger already bubbling in her eyes. Ezra chose to keep his sunshades on for beginning of this meeting.

Josie stepped out of her car and closed the door, then leaned against it and looked at Ezra without speaking. Ezra did the same.

Finally, with a sigh, Josie said, “Well, you’re the one on such a time schedule. Go ahead. Ream me out.”

Ezra closed his eyes and sighed, shaking his head slightly. He quietly replied, “Such an acid tongue.”

Josie heard the mumble and countered, “Razor sharp, just like you taught me.”

Ezra stared disdainfully at her, his eyes full of disapproval. Then he sadly remarked, “I was more than prepared to ‘ream you out’, but…” He removed his sunglasses and sighed again. “But now that you’re here... now that I can behold...” another sigh, and in a whisper, “behold your winsome...”

Josie looked away and interrupted, “Don’t start that.”

Ezra stopped, his eyes blinking quickly, and he looked down at the pavement beneath his feet. “You’re right. I am angry.” Looking up again to meet her gaze, he corrected, “Rather, I am disturbed.” He waited a beat, making sure he had her full attention, then curtly asked, “Why are you there, Josephine?”

Josie bit her tongue to control her temper. “I’m working.”

Ezra felt his own temper rise. “No. Not there. I won’t allow that.”

Josie incredulously replied, “You won’t allow it?! You’ve gotta be kiddin’ me! Since when do you…”

Shocked by his own statement, Ezra rushed to recover, saying, “What I meant to say was that you don’t belong in that place. That club is run by...” He cut himself off suddenly, his eyes shifting away.

Josie’s eyes widened slightly in understanding. “That’s what you’re working on, isn’t it? This is your case? Ezra. Are you investigating Edward Kepplen?”

Ezra sighed, “You know I can’t tell you that, Josephine.”

She nodded, “Okay. But tell me this. Am I gonna get raided or something while I’m workin’ there?”

Ezra chortled, “Of course not. That’s not exactly what we’re doing.”

Josie nodded again. “Okay then. There’s nothing to worry about. I’ll stay outta your way and you stay outta mine.”

Ezra’s jaw tightened slightly as he clenched his teeth. Remaining composed he firmly replied, “You cannot continue working there. It’s not safe, Josephine. Not safe at all.”

Josie stood her ground. “I can take of myself.”

Raising his voice slightly, Ezra retorted, “I know you can take care of yourself. That’s not the issue here.”

Josie quickly replied, “And what is the issue here? Your control over me? Does it bother you that much that you had no idea I was singin’ in a club?”

Ezra felt his heart tighten. Perhaps it did. And before he knew it, he replied, “Does Vin know you’re working there?”

Josie guffawed. Then she studied Ezra’s face. “And if he did?”

Ezra’s shoulders stiffened inadvertently. “Well,” he began, avoiding her eyes, “I would be inclined to say that he is a foolish man for allowing it. Considering the possible risks involved.”

Josie slowly closed her eyes and looked away, sighing loudly and collecting her thoughts. Quietly, she said, “First of all, Vin doesn’t know. Secondly, he does not allow or disallow any part of my life. Just as you cannot.” Quickly looking up at Ezra, she said, “And you will not tell him. I’m not ready to share that part of my life with him, just yet. And he doesn’t have to know everything I’m doing.” Pausing, she gave him a sideways look and added, “Come to think of it, neither do you.”

The pain reflected in Ezra’s eyes immediately. He looked down again, and Josie set her jaw, watching him closely as they stood opposed in the parking lot.

+ + + + + + +

Two blocks away, Amelia squinted to make out Ezra’s companion in the distance. She grumbled about it for five minutes before Chase thought to retrieve a pair of binoculars from behind the seats in his car. Amelia shot him a look that betrayed her aggravation at his inefficiency so far.

Chase mumbled, “You’re pleasant in the morning.”

Placing the binoculars in front of her eyes, she responded, “I haven’t had coffee yet.”

Reaching for a styrofoam cup, Chase quickly retorted, “Please, take mine.”

Amelia shot him another look and returned to her surveillance. “I know this girl,” she said pensively. “I’ve seen her somewhere.”

Chase asked, “Where?”

Amelia shook her head slightly, still watching. “I’m not sure. But I’ve definitely seen her before.” She continued to watch them, wishing she could read their lips to know what this meeting was about.

Chase remarked, “You think it has something to do with the case?”

Amelia replied, “I don’t know. They’re not happy with each other, that’s for sure. I just wish I could remember where I’ve seen her.”

Chase reached for the binoculars, saying, “Let me have a look.” As he took them, he handed her the cup of coffee. “Drink this. Please.” Amelia glanced coldly at the young man, but he just winked and grinned, letting her know he was joking. Placing the binoculars before his own eyes, he attempted to discern what Ezra’s conversation was about.

Sighing, Chase said, “I should’ve bugged his car, too.”

Amelia rolled her eyes and drank the coffee.

+ + + + + + +

Josie and Ezra were attempting to stay calm. But both were seething underneath.

Ezra remarked, “If this job is so important to you, why are you keeping it secret?”

Josie raised her eyebrows a little, then replied, “Do you think I like the conversation we’re having? I knew this is what you’d do.”

Ezra replied in a raised voice, “Then why keep doing it?”

Josie calmly responded, “Because I like it. You’ve always said I should start singing again. And now I am. And now you don’t like it. You’re never happy with anything I do, you know.”

Ezra answered, “That is not true. I’m more proud of you than I am of anyone. You’ve come further in ten years than most people travel in a lifetime.”

Josie’s voice rose as she replied, “I didn’t do that! You did that! Everything that’s happened to me, every job I’ve ever had came from you! It had very little to do with what I wanted!”

Ezra’s temper flared as he yelled back, “You would rather I left you where you were? Useless little street trash crawl...”

Ezra stopped short when Josie’s eyes widened and her mouth fell open. He felt his own heart plummet at the realization of what he’d said, and immediately he crossed the distance between them and pulled her into a tight embrace. Josie’s arms remained at her side as she stood frozen with tears stinging her eyes.

“Josephine,” Ezra whispered, “I didn’t mean that. Not a word.”

Josie managed to reply, “Yes, you did. You always say what you mean.”

Ezra closed his eyes tight and struggled against the lump of tears in his throat. He embraced her tighter, hoping to find something that might steady his overwrought emotions. Josie slowly, cautiously, placed her arms around him as well, then gave in and held him tight. Very soon, she was the one giving comfort.

In a hushed voice, she asked, “What are they doin’ to you?”

Ezra’s eyes closed tighter, and he sighed, “I don’t know.”

They held each other a moment longer, then Josie pulled away and placed her hands on Ezra’s face, forcing him to look into her eyes.

“I know you’re worried about this,” she said, “But, you’ve gotta give me this chance.”

Ezra tried to shake his head slightly, his eyes full of worry, “It’s entirely too dangerous, Josephine.”

Josie shook her head. “For you. For me, it’s a job. All I do is sing. That’s not dangerous.”

Ezra opened his mouth to reply, but she placed her fingertips over his lips. “If something starts to go down, you can warn me, and I’ll leave. No questions. Okay?”

Ezra’s eyes closed slowly and he dropped his head with a sigh. Taking her hand in his, he gently kissed her fingers and nodded. “Okay. But no questions.”

Josie nodded, her face completely serious and full of concern. She commented, “You know I’m scared now.”

Melodramatically, Ezra’s shoulders dropped and he exclaimed, “That’s exactly what I’ve been trying to tell you, Josephine.”

She quickly replied, “I’m scared for you, Ezra. Not for me.” Her voice quieted to a whisper. “For you.”

Ezra looked down a moment and drew a deep breath of fresh morning air. Then a smile eased across his face, finally revealing deep dimples in his cheeks. In a teasing voice, he mimicked her, “I can take of myself.”

Josie quietly laughed with him and nodded. “I guess you can.”

The two friends stepped closer and embraced once again, holding each other a little tighter this time and not letting go so quickly.

+ + + + + + +

Amelia and Chase had to wait another thirty minutes for Ezra and his companion to complete their meeting. Apparently, breakfast had also been part of the plan, which they shared under a large tree in the middle of the park. It only served to make the two detectives hungry themselves.

When Ezra finally departed from the park, Chase was sitting at a stop sign on a side street waiting for the agent to pass. He quickly pulled into the sparse traffic behind Ezra and proceeded to follow at a safe distance. Amelia was more involved running the morning’s events through her head, trying to determine who Ezra’s friend was and how she knew her. She was completely surprised when Chase cursed loudly and began to slow down.

Looking over at the young detective, Amelia didn’t need to ask what was wrong. “We’ve lost him, haven’t we?” she asked, somehow not surprised.

Chase’s face flushed slightly and he tapped on the small device below the dash. “He found it.”

Amelia rolled her eyes and looked ahead of them on the street. “How did he find it? He hasn’t stopped once.”

Chase sighed a little and avoided her eyes when he replied, “It was inside the car.”

Amelia simply stared at him. Sarcastically, she replied, “Oh, good. I asked for your help and you give me amateur night. Fabulous.”

Chase simply sighed and gripped the wheel a little tighter. Finally, Amelia said, “Well, look. He found the tracer, but he doesn’t know who put it there, right? So, let’s just go a little faster and try to catch up with him. He can’t be that far ahead.”

Chase replied, “Well... actually...”

Amelia looked over and noticed Chase was looking into the rear view mirror. Amelia sat stunned for a second then replied, “He’s not...”

Chase finished her sentence with a nod to the mirror, “He’s behind us. Directly behind us. He must’ve doubled back around the block.”

Amelia closed her eyes and dropped her head with a quiet groan. Then she said, “Pull over.”

“What?” Chase exclaimed.

She looked at him and commanded, “Pull over. There’s nothing we can do now.”

Chase did as Amelia said, pulling parallel to a parked car. They saw Ezra drive directly past them. Both detectives stared openmouthed at the rear of the agent’s vehicle.

Ezra stopped at the end of the block, six cars in front of where Chase was parked. Amelia smirked and shook her head with a quiet snort. In a moment, the passenger door to Ezra’s car was opened and shoved ajar. Amelia smirked again.

Chase quietly said, “I’m sorry.”

Amelia shrugged. “It’s alright. There’s nothing you could’ve done.”

Chase lamented, “But I should’ve. I’m surveillance. I’m trained in this.”

Amelia chuckled as she began to step from the car. “Yes, you are. But so is he. Trained to dodge you guys. Don’t feel bad about it.”

Chase looked at his hands on the steering wheel and sighed, “I do. I feel really bad. He shouldn’t have caught me.”

Amelia ducked her head in the door and said, “Hey! He’s got a few years on you. Remember that. It’ll be a while before you’ll be as good as him.” Glancing toward Ezra’s car, she added, “And he’s really good. Trust me. You did okay.” With a smile, she added, “Thanks.”

Chase finally smiled, feeling somewhat better, and looked at Amelia. “Any time.” When she smiled brightly, he added with emphasis, “And I do mean any time.”

Amelia smiled and replied, “I know what you mean. Now go back to work! I’ll see ya later.” She slammed the door with a smile and began to walk toward Ezra’s waiting car. Chase stayed in his position and watched her travel the rest of the block.

Ezra was looking straight ahead when Amelia slid into the seat beside him. He barely waited for her to close the door before he began driving away. In the car behind them, Chase began to fume with renewed dislike for the ATF agent.

After several minutes of silence, Amelia finally remarked, “I guess neither of us can be trusted, huh?” Ezra did not respond, prompting her to say, “Oh, we’re not speaking now? Good. That’s just great.”

Ezra continued to drive back toward downtown, his knuckles turning white from the grip he held on the steering wheel. Amelia sulked as she looked out the windows. Then finally, she turned in the seat to confront him.

“I don’t suppose your meeting with people secretly and outside the city has anything at all to do with our case. It’s nothing, right?” The suspicion was woven through each word she spoke.

Through clenched teeth, Ezra replied, “Josephine has no involvement with our assignment.”

Amelia studied him a moment, turning the name over in her mind. Quietly, she pondered, “Josephine. Josephine.” Then, with sudden recognition, she proclaimed, “Of course! Josephine! She's that little waif you kept in Atlanta!”

Ezra’s foot slammed with full force onto the brakes, the screeching of the tires being heard for blocks. Amelia's body flew into the front of the car, her shoulder connecting hard with the front of the dashboard and the seat belt cutting into her flesh as it locked in place. Just as quickly, she was ricocheted back into the cushion of the leather seat.

Ezra gripped the steering wheel tightly, never looking at his companion and ignoring her yelp of injury. With almost a snarl, he said to Amelia, “I never want to hear those words from your lips again.” With a slow and definite turn, he looked at Amelia and added, “Is that clear?”

Amelia’s eyes were wide at the tone she heard from Ezra’s voice, but she didn’t back down. “Fine,” she spat out, massaging her shoulder, “I won’t say another word. I didn’t know she meant that much to you.”

Ezra turned back to the street and quietly murmured, “She means everything.”

Amelia sat up again and looked at her partner, slightly astonished. Ezra placed a heavy foot on the gas, causing the car to lurch forward suddenly and propelling Amelia unexpectedly back into the seat. She groaned when her other shoulder was pinned behind her momentarily, then twisted around to face forward again. The two cops were silent the remainder of the way back to their apartment.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra and Amelia were met in the parking garage by Vin, looking none too pleased but voicing nothing. Amelia had another meeting with Willa later that morning, and there was much preparation to be done beforehand. With Vin behind the wheel, the three officers proceeded in complete silence to the van stationed a short walk from the capitol building where the meeting would take place. Though she tried, Amelia couldn’t resist massaging her aching shoulder every so often. Ezra glanced at her a couple of times from the back seat but did not comment.

The surveillance van was full of people when Vin and crew arrived. Chase had been unusually quiet since his appearance, which worried Masen but rather delighted JD. The less the young ATF agent had to listen to the obnoxious young vice cop, the better. The arrival of Amelia set the surveillance crew into full motion. Everything was in place except Amelia’s wire.

Chase grabbed up the equipment before the door had even closed behind the three agents, and he waved Amelia over to set her up. Neither made reference to the morning, except when a sharp moan escaped Amelia’s lips as she pulled her suit jacket from her sore shoulder. Chase looked up quickly with concern in his eyes, and Ezra glanced over as well.

Chase bitterly asked under his breath, “That happen in the car this morning?”

Amelia raised her eyes without tilting her head and met Chase’s gaze. She nodded slightly, then watched as Chase’s face hardened and his attention moved past her to stare hatefully at Ezra. Across the van, Ezra turned his head just enough to meet Chase’s challenging look head on.

Amelia placed her hand under Chase’s chin, physically returning his attention to her. She looked directly into his eyes, and said, “Stay with me.”

Chase looked into her eyes, suddenly realizing they were barely inches apart. His eyes softened, but his hushed voice remained angry. “I hate that guy.”

Amelia replied, “You don’t know that guy.”

Chase responded, “I know he treats you like...”

She cut him off, “He treats me better than you could ever imagine.”

Chase stared at her a long moment, his countenance becoming more and more perplexed. Amelia finally added, “He’s my partner. And I need him. That’s all that matters. So... why don’t you stop worrying about him and start taking care of me. Okay?”

Chase immediately smiled, and somewhat shyly, Amelia noticed. He looked down at the equipment in his hands as he replied, “I can do that.” Then, quickly raising his head, he smiled with more confidence and added, “I can definitely take care of you.”

Amelia grinned and spread her arms wide. “Then set me up... love.” Chase’s eyes brightened at her use of his personal term of affection. He set about placing the wire on her, carefully concealing it within her camisole and down the front of her stomach to avoid detection from outside her clothing.

Amelia paid attention to the voices behind her, listening to JD describe the surveillance tactics for this meeting. It wasn’t necessary to video more than just the women, and Amelia’s wire would be their audio record. Basically, they were simply keeping a record of all conversations regarding transactions of the drugs. This was all routine, and mostly to keep all the facts straight and place on file. No major concerns. JD was confident that this would be quick and basic. Amelia waited until JD and Vin began discussing the scores from the previous night’s football game before she leaned forward and spoke quietly so only Chase could hear.

“I need a favor,” she whispered.

Hooking the microphone just inside the lacy edge of the undergarment, Chase answered without looking up. “Anything.”

Not wanting to draw attention, Amelia only craned her neck slightly to speak, but kept her voice low. “I need some time off the tape.”

Chase was silent a moment, prompting Amelia to rush into her next statement, “I can’t tell you why, but...”

Chase lifted his head slightly to look into her eyes, “Done.”

Amelia scrunched her face slightly, not sure of the situation, and said, “Really? Are you sure? I don’t want you to do anything that’ll...”

Chase moved his hands around her torso and followed the wire around to her back, stepping behind her and positioning the pack. He leaned close to her ear and said, “I’ll do whatever you need.”

Amelia glanced over her shoulder, finding his cheek next to hers. Quietly, she said, “Why?”

Chase came back around to stand in front of her, his hand trailing around her waist as he moved. “Because you ask.”

He pretended to adjust the tiny equipment once more, and Amelia felt a rush of affection for the young man before her. Smiling timidly, she asked, “What did I ever do to get you?”

With a chuckle, Chase replied, “No one else would have me.” Amelia chuckled with him. Making one last adjustment, he said, “You’ll have to tell me when to play dead.”

She asked, “A signal. Okay… I’ll... twirl my hair.”

Chase laughed slightly as he concealed the wires beneath the waistband of her skirt. “Not that. You always twirl your hair. I’d never know which time was the right time.”

Amelia pulled her head back and looked at him curiously. “I always twirl my hair? No, I don’t.”

Chase glanced up at her with a knowing smile. “I get paid to watch you all day. Trust me. You twirl your hair. It's gotta be something else.” Spotting her sunglasses on the table nearby, he said, “Take off your shades when you’re ready, then put them back on when it’s time to come back.”

Amelia turned slightly in the direction of her glasses, but did not look directly at them. Then she looked back at Chase and smiled. “Okay.” Her smile faded slightly to be replaced by a look of gratitude, and she added softly, “Thank you.”

Chase flashed another bright smile and said, “Anytime, love.”

They turned back toward the group then, Amelia retrieving her jacket and Chase switching on the monitors to test the wire. Just as Amelia began to slide her sore arm through the sleeve, wincing with every movement, Ezra stepped forward and took the jacket from her.

“Allow me,” he said, his eyes meeting hers. Amelia hesitated a second then smiled tenderly and nodded, cautiously slipping into her jacket and buttoning it to the top. Taking a deep breath, she turned back toward Chase.

After a few tests for sound level, Amelia exited the van and proceeded across the avenue to the park bench where Willa was to meet her. She made a point to speak to several persons along the way, testing the sound and distance capacity for the wire, as she had been instructed. On the park bench, she spoke to a pigeon, something which JD found quite amusing.

During the testing period, Chase made sure the sound cut out once, hoping to give credence to the later period of silence that he would be responsible for creating. The madness that ensued in the van as three surveillance techs attempted to do the job of one was a sight to behold. When it suddenly corrected itself, JD was more than a little befuddled. He fixed himself to the monitoring equipment for the remainder of the assignment. Chase found his station very near the plugs that served JD’s monitors and recording device.

Willa was late. And when she did arrive, she was frazzled and nervous. No matter what Amelia tried to say to draw her friend out, Willa offered no explanations. Inside the van, Vin commented on her erratic behavior.

“That girl’s in something she don’t like,” he said quietly, “She was pretty upset the other day, too. I think there’s something goin’ down we don’t know about yet. But it’s got her worried.”

Ezra studied the monitors containing the video of Amelia and Willa. He was apt to agree with Vin, and having been around Willa once or twice, he knew this behavior was odd for the usually cheerful girl. He pulled a chair close to the video screens and leaned forward as he listened to their conversation.

Willa was quick to give Amelia her delivery assignment for the evening. And once finished, Willa was ready to leave. Amelia noticed Willa’s hands were trembling, and her affection for the girl made her want to help. With a definitive gesture, Amelia removed her sunglasses, looking directly into Willa’s eyes.

The surveillance van lost all audio the very moment Amelia reached for Willa’s hands. JD’s head quickly shot back and forth across his equipment, searching for the culprit. He began checking all switches and all wires that directly fed into his board. Masen moved to the wires on the floor, following each one up to JD’s board. Nothing out of place. He never followed them the distance they stretched across the van.

Across the avenue, Amelia spoke quickly. “Willa, listen to me. You’ve gotta get outta here. You’re getting mixed up in something you don’t wanna be part of.” Willa stared at Amelia curiously, but did not reply. Amelia continued, “Trust me, Willa. This is bigger than the both of us. And it’s not safe. Please. Leave town before something happens and you get caught in the middle.”

Finally, Willa said, “Molly, I’m fine. Nothing’s gonna happen to me. Don’t worry. Just do what Denny asked, and we’ll all be fine.”

Amelia sighed and replaced her sunglasses, nodding sadly.

Chase had also been checking his section of audio equipment, all the while keeping one eye on the video screen until he saw Amelia return her shades to her eyes. Less than two minutes had passed.

When audio returned, JD sat stunned into silence before his monitors. His eyes kept darting across the board, but his face was full of confusion. Finally, he sighed loudly and said, “I hate this equipment.”

No one spoke another word until Willa and Amelia parted ways. Amelia walked in the opposite direction from Willa across the avenue, and once out of sight, she made her way back to the van. One look into Chase’s eyes told her everything had gone according to plan. One look into Ezra’s eyes told her that he had seen the whole thing. But no one spoke of the incident at all.

+ + + + + + +

The phone in the apartment was ringing when Ezra and Amelia entered late in the afternoon, followed by Nathan. Ezra picked it up immediately to find Edward Kepplen on the line.

“Edward,” Ezra began, “I did not expect to speak to you again until tomorrow. You haven’t called to cancel our aquatic adventure, now have you?”

Kepplen replied, “Oh, no. Of course not. My business did not keep me as long as I had anticipated. I arrived back in Denver only a short while ago. I was hoping you might be available this evening to meet with me.”

Ezra asked cautiously, “Something wrong, Edward?”

Kepplen did his best to cover an anxious voice, but Ezra sensed his uneasiness even over the phone. “Nothing is wrong, Ezra. I simply hoped to discuss a few matters of importance with you. Before tomorrow. I wish to relax tomorrow.”

Ezra inhaled slowly, his eyes traveling across the room to meet Amelia’s, who was listening with great interest. “Of course we can meet,” he replied, “Shall I come to the restaurant?”

Kepplen replied, “Yes. That would be fine. We’ll meet for dinner, if that’s agreeable.”

Ezra responded, “Of course. Whatever you like.”

“And, Ezra,” Kepplen said, “if you don’t mind, I’d rather meet with you alone. If it isn’t too much to ask.”

Ezra’s eyes focused again on Amelia, and he answered, “Not too much at all. I’m sure Molly will enjoy an evening to herself.” Amelia’s eyebrows raised in surprise at that statement.

Kepplen concluded the conversation by saying, “Very well, then. Dinner at six?”

Ezra replied, “Six o’clock. I look forward to it.”

Following cordial farewells, Ezra replaced the phone to the table and looked back at Amelia. “Well,” he began, “that works out nicely. I’m to have a private dinner with Kepplen tonight, to discuss something of ‘importance’. He’s anxious about something.”

Amelia thought back to Willa, but didn’t make the comparison. Instead she remarked, “So it won’t seem odd when I show up at the dance club tonight and you’re nowhere to be found. That is perfect timing, isn’t it?”

Nathan commented, “You think that’s all it is?”

Ezra turned to his colleague with a questioning look. Amelia responded, “You don’t think it’s a coincidence?”

Nathan shrugged. “I don’t know. Is it? Is anything a coincidence these days?”

Ezra walked across the room to the windows, his mind churning the possibilities. Amelia watched him a moment then turned back to Nathan.

“Surely it’s fine,” she said, “I’m just a temporary companion to Kepplen. He doesn’t think of me as more than an employee. And this is business. Serious business. Of which a whore, like me, has no part.”

Ezra shot a quick glance at Amelia and gave her a warning look. Nathan ignored her. Instead, he said to Ezra, “By ‘alone’, does he also mean I can’t come?”

Ezra pondered that a moment, then replied, “He said alone, but I only mentioned not bringing Amelia. I think you should come and if he doesn’t want you there, he’ll make that known, won’t he?”

Nathan nodded in agreement, moving further into the apartment to sit on the couch. Ezra looked at his watch.

“It’s four-thirty now. I should shower and change for this meeting.” Looking at Amelia, he asked, “When is your delivery?”

“Not until late. I have to pick up the package at nine, then take it to the club and wait for the money. Willa said it might be a long wait at the club, so I should just hang out.” Amelia smiled brightly. “Maybe I’ll do some dancing.”

Ezra rolled his eyes slightly, and replied, “Just don’t get too caught up.”

Amelia beamed. “Me? Surely not. But, then again, this is that club that plays all eighties music. You know how I loved the eighties.” She smiled teasingly at Ezra.

He returned the smile slightly. “Yes, I know you did. But, this is a job, so don’t overdo it.”

Amelia tossed her hair behind her shoulders and proclaimed, “Oh, never!”

From the couch, Nathan wasn’t sure who was really teasing whom.

+ + + + + + +

Edward Kepplen did not expect to see Ezra Sullivan’s bodyguard accompanying him to dinner, but he didn’t complain. His eyes took in the large man, whose stature was one and a half times his own, and the club owner said not a word. However, as a gesture of amiability, Ezra asked Nathan to situate himself a fair distance from their table. Nathan’s presence was quickly forgotten.

Ezra was quicker than Kepplen to begin the conversation. He took a risk by mentioning his presence in the man’s office the night before, but felt it necessary to retain trust. Ezra formed his words carefully.

“Edward, there is something of a delicate nature I must mention to you.” He noticed a slight smile cross Kepplen’s lips. “It concerns an... indiscretion of mine, from last night.”

Edward Kepplen looked at Ezra with an understanding smile. “I have been told that you and your lovely lady made use of my office while I was out of town. And I think I understand the reasons.”

Ezra sighed for Kepplen’s benefit, lowering his head to portray embarrassment, then replied, “It seems that Molly, Miss Engle, has a rather... let’s see... insatiable appetite when it comes to... well, men of wealth.” He tilted his head slightly to shrug off the last part of his statement as if he could not help what he was.

Kepplen smiled widely. “I see. But I do understand, Ezra. And, I suppose, if you were to have need of any facility in my restaurant, then perhaps my office would be the most discreet for your... rendezvous.”

Ezra felt a slight blush creep up his neck, though he didn’t intend for it to happen. He was suddenly feeling warmer than he preferred to feel. He quickly responded to Edward, hoping to return to a more casual tone.

“Yes, well, I assure you, this will never happen again. I simply had an uncharacteristic lapse of self-control.”

Kepplen nodded knowingly and replied, “Having been witness to Molly’s charms, I can sincerely say I couldn’t blame any man for losing control.”

Ezra smiled politely, if somewhat awkwardly, and remarked, “As I said, it will not happen again.” Shifting in his chair, Ezra changed his tone to one of business and asked, “Now, what is this matter of importance you wish to discuss?”

Kepplen’s features mirrored Ezra’s and he came straight to the point. “I’m interested in selling my business.”

Ezra’s eyebrows lifted in surprise. “Really...”

Kepplen nodded, strategically avoiding Ezra’s direct gaze, “Yes. I have been looking into the possibility of selling this restaurant, and I believe you might be the perfect man to take over for me.”

Ezra’s surprise was evident, and he chose not to cover it. Looking steadily at Kepplen, he asked, “Forgive me, Edward, but really… we have only just met days ago. And you believe I am the man to trust with your enterprises?”

Kepplen smiled, “True, we have just met. But, your reputation precedes you by many lengths. And I know people. I can see you are a keen businessman with a sharp mind and a clear sense of the future. I don’t believe I’m wrong in believing you will serve this business well.”

Ezra studied the man a moment, then considered what he had said. Finally, he asked, “And with this restaurant comes what, exactly?”

Kepplen took a deep breath, fixing his gaze on the candlelit centerpiece between them, and replied, “Everything.”

Ezra stared at Kepplen in silence until the older man was forced to look up and meet his eyes. Then he said, “By everything you mean, the restaurant, the club and lounge next door?” He waited for Kepplen to complete his statement.

In hushed but even tones, Kepplen continued, “And all the additional income and benefits that come with managing this particular level of Emilio’s empire.”

Ezra nodded slowly, thinking over what had been said. Finally, he asked, “And I will answer to whom?”

Kepplen replied, “To the same people I do.”

Ezra said, “The people you have never seen.” Agitation growing in his voice, he leaned toward Kepplen and continued, “I will not work for those I have not met. I thought that you understood this, Edward.”

Kepplen was nodding. “I do understand this. And I hope to change that. But right now, all I can offer you is my part of this empire. My restaurant. My club. With sincere promises to do all that is in my power to clear the way to Emilio’s successor.”

Kepplen was very nervous, Ezra could see that. But he wasn’t exactly sure of the reason. Cautiously, he prodded further.

“Edward,” he said calmly, “have you discussed this proposition with your superiors?”

Kepplen shifted in his chair, then looked past Ezra as he answered, “No. I thought my retiring would be better accepted if I could suggest someone to take my place. Someone I trusted, that they also could trust. You.”

Ezra and Kepplen regarded each other an extended moment. Finally, Ezra nodded in agreement, and said, “I understand why that might be best.” Taking a deep breath, he added, “Okay. I’ll contemplate your offer. It sounds like something I might be interested in, but I would, of course, need to review the books and the profits for the past few years.”

Kepplen began nodding. “Of course. Certainly.”

Then Ezra added, “For all facets of the business, you understand.” He looked at Kepplen without emotion in his eyes. Kepplen met his stare, then nodded slowly.

“Of course, Ezra. I can certainly arrange that.”

Ezra sat back in his chair slightly, glancing around the perimeter of the room. A smile slowly came across his mouth as he remarked, “It is a beautiful place, Edward.”

Kepplen relaxed some and smiled more easily. “I have enjoyed it immensely through the years. You will, too.”

Ezra raised a wine glass to Edward in acknowledgement, then placed it to his lips for a sip. As he did, a thought came to him. Looking back at Kepplen, he asked, “Is your lounge open tonight?”

Kepplen nodded animatedly. “Yes, it is. Would you like to move in there for the evening?”

Ezra queried, “Is there live music or...”

Kepplen interjected, “Oh, live. A wonderful young girl. Sweet, beautiful voice. I’m sure you’ll enjoy her.”

Ezra nodded thoughtfully. “I’m sure I will.”

Kepplen led the way to the lounge, finding them a table near the edge of the room but with a perfect view of the piano. Kepplen stopped a waiter, speaking to him in whispered tones, but Ezra was too busy surreptitiously scanning the darkened room to pay much attention. When he finally saw Josie she was making her way to his table. She glanced at him casually but stepped toward Kepplen and took his extended hand. The bright smile she shared with Edward Kepplen served only to knot Ezra’s stomach. He was surprised when she turned to him.

Kepplen was saying, “I’d like you to meet an associate of mine, Josie. This is Ezra Sullivan. Ezra, Josie Cavender.”

Ezra stood immediately, almost too quickly, and the color was somewhat drained from his face when he met her eyes. But Josie’s mouth turned into an easy, wide smile, and suddenly all of Ezra’s anxieties vanished. He returned the smile genuinely. Taking her hand, he placed a lingering kiss on her fingers and stood again to look at her. Even in the smoky atmosphere, he could see the sparkling laughter behind her gray eyes.

Josie’s voice was confident when she said, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mister Sullivan.”

Ezra shook his head slightly and quietly replied, “Ezra. Please.”

Josie’s gray eyes twinkled with her grin. “Ezra.”

Releasing her hand, Ezra finally looked away but remained standing. Josie regarded him a moment longer, finally feeling a bit embarrassed, then turned to Kepplen again.

“I should start my set now. I’m glad you’re here tonight.” Looking at Ezra, she added, “I hope you enjoy it.”

Ezra very quietly replied, “I’m certain I will.” He felt a smile come to his lips, but didn’t repress it. Nodding to Josie as she turned to leave, Ezra reclaimed his chair but his eyes never left her.

Kepplen’s voice broke his reverie. “Delightful young girl,” he said.

Ezra mumbled, “Delightful.” His eyes stayed fixed on the stage at the front of the room. And there his attention remained for the next three hours, through set after set. Ezra almost forgot where he was and what he was doing there, and for those few hours, he didn’t care one bit about the cases of arms that were making their way into Denver. All that mattered was Josie Cavender, and the dream that was being fulfilled in that smoky little lounge.

+ + + + + + +

Amelia was ready to leave an hour before her pick-up time. She had taken great care in her appearance, for once having the place to herself and the time to do whatever she pleased, and she was actually looking forward to the night’s adventure. An eighties club. She smiled when she thought of it. Perhaps there would be time for a dance or two. She decided to leave early to make sure of it.

She was supposed to be alone for these deliveries, but she knew that Chris would never go for that. Though she didn’t know where, she had been assured that an agent would always be closeby, wherever she was. The first night, she had seen a familiar face in the cab driver who picked her up. One of the other vice detectives who worked that strip. This night, however, the driver of her taxi didn’t ring any bells. She just gave instructions of where to take her and settled back for the ride through the city.

In the building across the street from the penthouse, Chase Donovan couldn’t believe what he had seen. How could they let her go alone? Again! After ranting aloud for several minutes, Chase finally grabbed his coat and headed for the door. His partner, Masen, called after him several times but finally gave up. No matter how he tried, there was no way Masen could talk sense into his partner. This time, he would have to learn the hard way. Masen silently wished his friend well, but knew this would probably be their last job together.

Amelia arrived first at Jaci’s, the restaurant named after Emilio Covoran’s beloved wife. She had died young, before bearing any children, and everything Emilio did after that time was dedicated to her. She was the motivation behind all of the restaurants and clubs. That had been her ambition, and her husband had seen that such a dream was fulfilled for her, albeit posthumously. Jaci’s was the first restaurant opened, and still the most successful. It was also the biggest front. Never in all the years of investigating Covo’s organization could they find the evidence to shut down this particular establishment. Amelia held a secret admiration for the keen business minds who had accomplished this feat. And she almost hated to take it down. Almost.

Entering the restaurant, she quickly detoured to the employees’ corridor, winding her way to the back of the kitchen and into the tiny office in the corner used by the night manager. He was surprised to see her so early, but he had the package nonetheless.

With Amelia’s offer to help, they concealed themselves in the office and began to split the package of cocaine into smaller, individual packets. They bagged it quickly, with Amelia placing the little packets within the confines of her leather minidress. Only a handful could actually be hidden within the bodice of her dress, but she had worn special boots just for the occasion. With a little work, forty more packets of powder cocaine were placed along the insides of her knee-high go-go boots. And even upon close inspection, save taking the boots off completely, no one would ever be the wiser. Amelia smiled at her own craftiness.

For his own part, the night manager kept one packet of coke for himself, offering some to Amelia before she left. With only a moment’s hesitation, she leaned across the desk and snorted one line, then turned quickly and departed. She moved back through the restaurant to the front doors, speaking with several employees along the way, and began the short walk to the dance club. She glanced around the street casually as she walked, aware of the partiers who lined the avenue, but she spoke to no one. To any passerby, she was simply one of the crowd.

The line to enter the club was two blocks long. But Amelia had no wait. She was on the A-list, of course, and had known the bouncer from other clubs in which she had worked. She and Willa had frequented this club as they worked their way up the ranks, though Amelia had not been there for several weeks. She stopped when she reached the building, gazing at the tremendous neon sign from across the street. She smiled at its name: “Serious Moonlight”. She always thought that was so appropriate, and it always brought the Bowie song to mind. As it was intended. Amelia could feel the energy beginning to course through her body, and she wasn’t quite sure if it was coming from the club or from the drugs. But no matter. Either way, she would enjoy this night’s adventure.

As Amelia neared the club entrance, she glanced at those hopefuls waiting on line. Her eyes quickly darted to a young red-haired man standing just inside the ropes, looking directly at her. Chase. Amelia immediately looked away, placing her attention on the bouncer at the door. When she reached him, she leaned toward him and whispered something in his ear, then smiled in gratitude and proceeded into the club. As soon as Amelia entered, the large door attendant rounded the velvet rope that held the partiers in line, pointed to Chase and motioned for him to cross under the barrier. Chase smiled in appreciation and proceeded into the club.

Across the street, Vin Tanner sat in a black Porsche behind darkened windows, watching everything that occurred.

Inside the club, Amelia was standing at the bar to the side of the entrance, her eyes on the door. When she saw Chase enter, she turned away and waited. He was beside her in seconds.

Yelling in her ear to be heard over the music, he asked, “Can I buy you a drink?”

Amelia turned toward him casually, noticing immediately the gleam in his eyes. Rolling her eyes, she turned to the bartender and requested a kamikaze shot. Chase raised his eyebrows as she met his surprised stare, then he laughed and told the bartender to give him the same. Simultaneously, the two detectives threw back the shots, then Amelia took the younger man’s hand and moved to the dance floor.

Once in the midst of the clubbers, Amelia moved close to Chase and reprimanded him, yelling in his ear but knowing she couldn’t be heard by anyone else. “You should not be here!”

Chase leaned close and yelled, “You shouldn’t be here alone!”

Amelia smiled and shook her head playfully. “I’m never alone! There are eyes everywhere!” She found her own statement very funny and began to laugh loudly, closing her eyes and losing herself in the music.

Chase was momentarily taken back by her response, but decided to follow her lead. She needed the cover, and he wasn’t going to be the one to blow it for her. Moving closer, he quickly fell into step with her. For a moment at least, they both could forget their jobs.

That moment ended quickly with the changing of the song. Amelia snapped back to reality and told Chase she had to take care of business. She pointed to an empty table and instructed him to wait there. He followed her off the dance floor, then watched her enter a back hallway. He kept his eyes on the hallway until she returned.

Amelia went straight to the office of Ricky Oliveras, the club’s owner and manager. She was exactly on time. Seating herself at the chair across from his desk, Amelia removed the five small packets from the bosom of her dress, depositing them before Ricky. She then unzipped one boot at a time and extracted the remainder of the cocaine bags. Ricky was pleased that all had made it with no interference. And again, Amelia was rewarded with a little for herself.

Taking a long sculptured fingernail, Amelia scooped a portion of the white powder into the hollow underside, then placed it before her nostril. Inhaling with one quick breath, she absorbed the coke and removed her nail. She smiled with eyes closed for a second, feeling the sensation of the powder as it traveled through her head, then she returned to the present and smiled at Ricky.

“So,” she chirped, “how long until the money gets here?”

Ricky replied, “It will be here within the half hour. Go outside and enjoy yourself. I’ll send someone when you’re needed.”

Shrugging her shoulders, Amelia said, “Okay. I’ll be on the dance floor!” She literally bounced from the room.

For fifteen minutes, Amelia was free to dance her heart out. She quickly forgot her surroundings and fell into the rhythm of the music, each song bringing back fond memories. She was impressed with Chase’s moves, and she actually enjoyed the company. So into the moment, and so unaware, was she that she never saw the police officers who began to enter the club. And she was completely surprised when the scene began to play itself out.

Vin remained in the rented car and watched the raid taking place. He thought about going in for Amelia, was just about to get out of his car, when he saw the black Dodge Ram pull up down the block. Chris Larabee quickly found his agent’s cover, knew he was still inside, and without being able to see him clearly, gestured for Vin to leave the area. Chris breathed a sigh when he saw the Porsche deftly pull away.

Flashing identification to the officers outside, Chris quickly moved inside the club. The party was going so strong that very few had noticed the commotion outside. Chris had managed to get inside before the uniforms made their appearance. Their last-minute rallying outside the doors gave him a few extra moments to get Amelia out. His eyes searched frantically among the clubbers, moving toward the back of the room as quickly as he could. He shoved his way through dancer after dancer, and was surprised at how many clubbers were close to his own age. He figured the drugs were a big draw.

Chase saw Chris at the exact moment that Chris saw him. Time stood still for a half-second, then Chase’s instincts and training kicked in and he shoved Amelia backward off the dance floor. She was only aware of moving but didn’t realize at first that she was actually almost running. Chase turned her around and pushed her forward, and immediately Amelia came face to face with Chris. One look in her eyes and Chris knew what he was up against.

Grasping her bare arm tightly, Chris virtually dragged Amelia from the room, moving toward a back exit as quickly as he could. Chase was almost running to keep up, dodging the other patrons as he did. Chris simply knocked over whomever was in his path.

Behind them, the screams and panic began. Chase looked back once and saw that the uniformed officers were beginning to outnumber the clubbers, but Chris’s gruff voice made him forget the scene behind them.

“Come on!” Chris yelled. Amelia was running to keep up with him, and she was struggling to free her arm from his grasp. With one large jerk, she pulled her arm from Chris’s hand, causing her to lose her balance and stumble backward. Chase was there to catch her. Chris reached for her again, getting in her face and yelling, “Come on!” Amelia’s eyes widened as the sound of his voice reverberated through her head.

A gunshot followed next.

Amelia immediately dropped to a squatting position, pulling her arms around her head for cover. Chris dropped also, instinctively moving to cover Amelia. Chase flew against a wall and reached for his own weapon.

Chris recovered in an instant, realizing the gunfire had come from the main room, but when he noticed Chase reaching for his gun, he reached out a hand and yelled, “No!” Chase removed his hand from beneath his jacket.

Amelia was still cowering beneath Chris, so he pulled her up and tried to move toward the exit again. She was extremely resistant. He heard Amelia’s breath coming in inconsistent gasps, but he had to get them out, so he kept running.

They exited the building through a side door, just before the uniforms located the hidden exit on the outside. Chris, Chase and Amelia just barely made it into the shadows of the trash dumpster without being seen. Amelia’s breathing was so ragged, Chase thought for sure they would be heard. But Chris kept them moving.

They crossed a parking lot that joined the dance club with an abandoned building behind it, then turned to move down the street. Chris knew they couldn’t go back to his truck, a brief moment of stupidity on his part having left it so close to the club, so he kept them walking. He figured they could find a cab somewhere away from the club. He was surprised when a shiny black Porsche pulled up beside him.

Vin got out of the driver’s side as Chris opened the passenger door. With only a slight grin, Vin said, “Figured you’d need a way to get home.”

Chris acknowledged his partner with a nod then shoved Amelia in the car. Rounding the front of the car, he threw Vin his own keys. “Meet me back at Ezra’s apartment.” Then, just before he stepped into the car, he nodded toward Chase and growled, “And bring him with you.” Vin nodded, glancing at Chase’s terrified face as the young detective watched Amelia double over in the seat of the car. Chris sped off so quickly he left tread marks on the street behind him.

Amelia’s breathing continued to come in slower and slower gasps, once or twice stopping completely. Each time, Chris glanced over at her slumped form but never did he say a word. When he saw the tremors begin in her hands and arms, he gripped the wheel tighter, clenched his jaw and floored the gas pedal. They crossed town in no time.

Ezra and Nathan had returned only half an hour earlier, and the commotion they heard outside the elevator made Nathan move to open the door. Chris was just about to pound on the door when it opened.

Amelia was more alert now, though Chris still held her tightly by the arm. When they stepped into the entryway, Chris released Amelia with a fling of his arm, throwing her across the room. She stopped just short of the coffee table, prompting Ezra to step toward Chris defensively. Chris gave Ezra no time.

Stepping toward Amelia, and yelling at the top of his voice, Chris asked, “How much did you take?!” When Amelia didn’t acknowledge him, he moved to tower over her and yelled again, his voice booming louder and louder, “How much, Molly?!! How much did you take?!!”

Amelia drew herself up to face Chris, her eyes blazing and her breathing somewhat steadier. She glared into his eyes and said nothing. Her mouth set into a thin line.

Chris attempted to stare her down for a minute, then finally felt the rage building to extreme levels and turned away in a rush, picking up a bowl from the coffee table and throwing it with full force into the wall across the room. Complete silence followed the shattering of glass.

Vin and Chase entered the apartment as the object flew past them into the wall. Vin quickly drew his head back to avoid the bowl, then slowly leaned back in to judge the safety of entering the room. His eyes stayed on Chris.

Chris stalked across the room a few feet, but when he saw Chase and Vin enter, he turned on the younger man.

“You’re done,” he said, poking a finger at Chase’s chest, “You had no reason to be there, and that’s all I’m gonna have of you. You’re thinking with something other than your brain, and I’m not stand for it! You’re off this case.”

Amelia finally spoke up. “He was there because I asked him to come.”

Chris swung around slowly with fire in his eyes, then replied, “I don’t care who asked him. He shouldn’t have been there, and he knows it. He’s done.”

Amelia fumed visibly, then finally gave in to all she was feeling. With a voice to rival Chris’s, she began to scream, “You wanna punish somebody, Chris?! Punish me! This is all my fault! It’s always my fault! You’ve been trying to take me down for years, so now’s your chance, Larabee! Go all out!”

In one giant step, Chris was standing before her, his voice booming in her face. “If I’d wanted you gone, you’d be gone! I’m the only reason you’re still here!”

Amelia’s hands spread before her in a dramatic sweeping motion and she turned around as she melodramatically exclaimed, “Oh, that’s right! You’re the reason I’m still a cop! If it wasn’t for you, I’d be out on the street!”

Chris yelled back, “Yes, it is! I kept you from being thrown out on your almighty…”

Amelia interrupted, “How could I possibly forget that! You remind me of it every single time I do something you don’t like! I know what you did, Chris! I always remember what you did! I just wish you would let it go!”

Chris quickly responded in an angry but quieter voice, “Fine. I'll do that. In fact, I’ll let you go! From now on, you’re on your own. That’s it for me. I won’t have you on my team. I’m not gonna lose good men so you can do whatever you want to have fun.” Chris spat out the last words, then added, “You’re getting nothin’ more from me! You got that? Nothing. We do not work together, and I’m not gonna watch your back anymore. It’s all yours, kid.”

Chris turned to leave, then stopped just short of the door. He looked over at a very stunned Ezra and said, “You have to decide where your loyalties lie.”

Ezra blinked suddenly, considering Chris’s ultimatum. He glanced toward Amelia and saw the slow closing of her eyes as she struggled to remain composed. Then he looked back to Chris. Swallowing hard, he leveled his gaze with Larabee’s and replied, “I need her to do my job.”

Chris waited half a beat, then turned and stomped out the door. Calling back over his shoulder, he said, “Then you do it alone.” Chris was entering the elevator before his comment had even registered with those in the room.

Vin followed Chris immediately, joining him in the elevator. After the doors closed, Vin quietly said, “Might be hard on him not knowing what we find out.”

Chris clenched his jaw, then said, while looking forward, “He’ll manage.”

Vin glanced quickly at his friend, knowing that he would eventually cool down, but in the back of his mind, he worried a bit for Ezra.

Nathan wasn’t sure whether to leave until Ezra spoke up. “He means alone, Mister Jackson."

Nathan shook his head sadly and said, “This ain’t right.”

Ezra replied, “Still, it’s the way it seems to be. We’ll cope just fine, Nathan.” With a slight grin, though forced, Ezra tried to reassure his colleague. Nathan shook his head and headed for the door.

Chase quietly crossed the room toward Amelia. Ezra quickly said, “You should go, as well.”

Chase ignored Ezra and reached to touch Amelia’s arm. She jumped inadvertently at his touch, causing her slight embarrassment and Chase great concern. “Will you be okay?”

Amelia forced a smile and nodded, her eyes drooping from exhaustion. “I’m fine. Go on home.”

Chase gave in. Before turning to leave, he said to her, “If you need anything, just...”

Ezra interrupted, “We won’t.” Both Chase’s and Amelia’s eyes cut through Ezra with a warning glare.

Amelia sighed and looked back toward Chase. “If I need anything, I’ll call.” When she saw the doubt in his eyes, she assured, “I will.” As he turned from her, she reached out a hand to grasp his. “Thank you. For all you’ve done.” Chase closed his hand around hers, then leaned forward and kissed her cheek. He was surprised at the clamminess of her skin but forced himself to smile at her. She returned the smile as best she could.

Very slowly, he moved away, not releasing her hand for as long as possible, then he walked through the door and closed it behind him. As soon as she heard the click of the door, Amelia’s shoulders sagged and she began to slump forward, her eyes rolling back into her head. Ezra was beside her immediately, having anticipated her collapse. He helped her to the couch to lie down. She attempted to steady her shallow breathing and slow her wildly beating heart. Ezra sat beside her and held her hand until she was more in control. His eyes were riveted to her.

After a moment, Amelia tried to smile, opening her eyes to look at her friend. “I really did it this time, didn’t I?”

Ezra squeezed her hand and smiled sadly. “We’ll make it, darlin’. We always do.”

Amelia nodded and drifted into momentary unconsciousness. Ezra brushed her sweat-soaked hair away from her face, then stood and took off her boots. Retrieving a blanket from the bedroom, he returned to place it over Amelia’s body on the couch. With a sad shake of his head, he left her there and shortly got into his own bed for the night.

+ + + + + + +

The muffled sounds were coming from the bathroom, but Ezra’s sleep-filled mind couldn’t quite comprehend their origin for several groggy moments. The small bit of light glowing beneath the bathroom door gave him direction, and he quietly slid out of bed and moved to the closed door, placing his ear close to listen. Crying. Ezra closed his eyes and pressed his head against the door, taking a deep breath and then lightly knocking on the door.

Immediately, Ezra heard the crying stop, followed by a sniffle and some shuffling. But no response was given. Ezra gingerly grasped the doorknob and was somewhat surprised to find it unlocked. A tiny smile touched the corners of his lips. He nodded slightly, then cracked the door only enough to make himself heard.

“May I come in?” he asked, his voice a gentle whisper.

Amelia sniffled again, then replied in a hoarse voice, “Do you dare?”

Ezra grinned and opened the door to slip inside. Amelia was sitting behind the door, wedged into the corner where the vanity met the side wall. The bright leather minidress was crumpled in a heap across the room where she had apparently thrown it in anger, and she now only wore a tiny camisole set that barely covered her voluptuous body. Her hair was a mess of wild red tangles, and her face was streaked with the remains of the heavy eye makeup she had worn earlier, now serving only to emphasize her puffy eyes and a bright pink nose. She did not look at Ezra when he entered, rather drawing her arms around her knees and pulling them against her chest. Her head was titled to the side so that her cheek could rest against the cool tile of the wall behind her. Ezra closed the door behind him and slowly lowered himself to the floor, sitting opposite her against the adjacent wall. He looked straight ahead rather than toward her.

The two sat in complete silence, Amelia struggling to stop the flow of tears that still trickled down her face. After a moment, she stopped fighting and broke down in great, heaving sobs. Ezra did his best to remain uninvolved, knowing she would need him eventually but not just yet. They stayed in silence for twenty minutes before Amelia finally tried to speak.

“I hate this so much,” she sobbed, her hands trembling as she reached up to pull her hair from the back of her neck. Ezra glanced over at her, his eyes compassionate but his face expressionless. He still did not speak. Amelia looked at him, and her eyes filled with contempt.

“None of you are better than me,” she hissed, “You all think you are, but you’re not better. You don’t know what this is like.”

Ezra continued to look directly into her eyes, never saying a word.

Amelia looked away, her voice full of anger and bitterness, and she continued, “They tell me to do whatever it takes to take these people down. Get in their world, play their games. But then when I do, suddenly I’ve crossed the line. They want it both ways, but they can’t handle it when I give it to them!”

Amelia closed her eyes tightly as the tears came again. Drawing in a long, ragged breath, she bit her lower lip and forced herself to keep from breaking down. Wiping her nose with the back of her hand, she allowed her shoulders to sag, and in a whisper, she said, “I can’t even see the line anymore.”

Ezra heard the defeat in her voice, signaling him to step in. He reached out his hand and placed his fingers through the tips of hers, still not speaking but expressing his understanding.

Amelia slowly opened her swollen eyes and looked into the face of her friend. She attempted to smile, but it only gave way to more tears. All she could do was tighten her fingers around his.

Ezra held her hand for the length of her crying spell, providing what strength he could through that one touch, until she finally remained composed long enough to speak freely and without blame.

Taking a deep breath, Amelia swallowed hard and looked into Ezra’s eyes. “It’s not the drugs that I care about. I really don’t want them, and I don’t need them. But I don’t know how to back away. When I’m supposed to be this little party girl, always looking for the next high, how can I say no when they offer it? How do I say no and still be believable? That’s my cover.” She laughed sardoncially. “That’s the cover they gave me.”

Finally Ezra spoke. His voice was hushed and tender as he replied, “They had cause to do so.”

Amelia rolled her eyes and her voice rose slightly. “They had nothing! They had one picture that looked suspicious! It wasn’t enough to send me into this!”

Ezra sighed, nodding, “Agreed. But, how did you defend yourself?” He looked pointedly at her with raised eyebrows.

Amelia’s shoulders sagged. “I know,” she said in defeat, “I know. They had no proof but I didn’t give them answers either.” She sighed loudly, pulling her hand through the tangled hair at her forehead. “I wish they’d just canned me from the start. It would’ve been better for everyone.”

Ezra shook his head. “Not true.”

Amelia looked back at him with sad eyes. But then she smiled. “I never would’ve known you, though. And it’s a cinch that Chris Larabee wouldn’t be sitting here with me right now, if things had been different.”

Ezra attempted a slight smile but quickly looked away. They remained silent for several more minutes, until Amelia sat forward some and hugged her knees tighter, placing her chin on top of them.

Quietly, she remarked, “You never asked me about it. What really happened.”

Ezra looked at his hands where they rested on his legs. “It isn’t my place. What happened does not affect my relationship with you. In any way.” He looked at her when he said the last words.

Amelia tilted her head to rest her cheek on her knee, looking at Ezra curiously. Then she smiled and replied, “But you’re dying to know, aren’t you?”

Ezra tried to remain stoic, but seeing the glint in her eyes brought a tiny smile to his lips. He allowed the grin to cross his face and said, “Of course.”

Amelia chuckled. “It’s all so ridiculously simple, actually. I was just trying to help my brother.”

Ezra offered, “Dante.” She seemed surprised that he remembered such a detail. Ezra shrugged and remarked, “I rather like the name.”

Smiling, her eyes drifted from his as she remembered her brother. “I couldn’t keep him out of trouble. He kept running back to the same crowd, getting in with the same people. And I kept bailing him out, again and again. But, of course, there came a time when he was up to his third strike, you know? Once more, and he was in prison. I just couldn’t let it happen to him. He would’ve died in prison.”

Ezra’s head lowered as he placed himself in Amelia’s situation, knowing some of what she must have felt.

She continued, “I was working the streets then. Standard hooker cover.” With a snort, she added, “Still do that, don’t I? Just got higher priced is all.” Ezra gave her a look of chastisement, but she ignored it. “The only way I could help Dante was to give him money. Which I knew, of course, he’d just use for drugs and whatever else he was into those days. But it’s all I knew to do. The one time I cut him off completely, he was put in jail for a month. And it nearly killed him.” Rubbing her eyes with two fingers, she added in a whisper, “Nearly killed me.”

Taking a deep breath and raising her head again, she said, “When he got out, I did everything I could to get him out of here. But I couldn’t make him leave. And he was the only family I had left, so I had to live with who he was and the choices he was making. I knew it’d kill him one day, but I was trying my best to keep him around a little longer.”

Ezra interjected, “So you sent money through his dealers?”

Amelia nodded, “It was the only way I could reach him. And, with me working those streets, I didn’t need anybody finding out that Dante was my brother. If I’d ever been blown, or somebody had a grudge against me, they’d go after Dante for sure. So, I sent stuff to him through his friends. ‘Course, all his friends were junkies and dealers. And one day, somebody got a picture of it. Me handing money to somebody’s target.” She shook her head mournfully. “I didn’t even know there was a case against the guy. But they got me. They didn’t have any evidence other than the picture. I never took anything for the money. But…”

Ezra concluded, “But you never explained it to them.”

Amelia shook her head. “They didn’t care.”

Ezra pondered this a moment, then carefully suggested, “Someone cared.”

Amelia smirked and looked at him. “Chris?” Shaking her head, she added, “Chris didn’t care about anything but getting me out of this town. He told them they could use me. DEA could make good use of people thinking I was dirty. Get the other rogue cops to trust me. And then, they could come in and bust ‘em. Me too, of course, but they would never get any actual evidence to put me away, so I’d be back in there and do it all again. Brilliant plan. And it sent me out of Denver. Out of Chris’s life.” She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. Sadness settled in her eyes. “But without me here, Dante fell out fast. He was dead in two months.”

Ezra lowered his gaze, sadness filling his heart as well.

After a minute, Amelia declared, “I’m tired.” Ezra nodded and took her hand again.

“I imagine that you are, darlin’. But... are you finished in here?”

Amelia looked at her surroundings, noting the crumpled dress across the room then looking down at her scant attire. Returning her attention to Ezra, she rolled her eyes and said, “I’m sure I look quite lovely.”

Ezra grinned. “Well…since you mentioned it…” Amelia chuckled with him, allowing him to pull her to her feet. She started toward the mirror, but Ezra placed his hands on her shoulders and moved her back against the vanity. Shaking his head, he said, “You really don’t want to do that.”

Amelia flushed slightly, closing her eyes, “Oh, that bad, is it?”

Ezra squinted his eyes and drew his shoulders up a little, saying, “It’s not pretty.” Then, reaching for a washcloth, he said, “Allow me.”

Amelia felt very little, her body having become numb hours ago, but the soothing feel of the warm cloth against her skin, combined with Ezra’s gentle touch as he removed the remains of makeup and tears from her face, brought immediate relaxation to her weary body. She felt herself drifting into slumber even as she stood against the sink.

Ezra looked sympathetically upon the pallid face of his partner. He cradled her neck with one hand then jokingly remarked, “Ah…there is a woman beneath this ghastly hellion I discovered.”

Amelia snorted, her eyes still closed, then pulled her arms around Ezra and hugged him tightly. He returned the embrace with equal intensity. Quietly, she said, “Did I ever mention that I loved you?”

Ezra’s mouth twitched into a slight grin. “Not that I recall.”

Amelia replied, “Oh. Well, then I won’t mention it now.”

Ezra laughed and Amelia embraced him tighter still, then drew back to look into his face. Her eyes were fighting to remain open, and she was beginning to shiver. Opening the door, Ezra stepped into the bedroom saying, “You should change and get some sleep.” He moved to his chest of drawers and returned in an instant with one of the shirts that completed his own silk pajama set.

Amelia took it with a smile, placing the soft fabric against her cheek. Dreamily, she remarked, “Oh, I love this.”

Ezra nodded, “Yes, well, it will be warmer than what you have been wearing. And I won’t be needing it, of course. So, get changed and hurry to bed.” Placing his finger on the tip of her nose, he said, “We are sailing today, remember.”

Amelia’s face showed surprise as she replied, “Is that today? I totally forgot.”

Ezra nodded, then left her alone. She was quick to bed, curling up into a tight ball and pulling the covers close around her. She still had some remnants of the chills, but she was settling down. Ezra watched her closely as she tried to relax and drift to sleep.

Somewhere in the early morning hours, Amelia awoke suddenly, her mind full of fear and confusion. But then she saw Ezra sleeping beside her, and her thoughts calmed. She slowly reached across the space between them and placed a delicate hand on his where it rested near his head on the pillow. Ezra’s eyes opened slowly, and he immediately focused on her. She smiled lazily, and when he curled his fingers around hers and squeezed her hand, she closed her eyes and fell directly back to sleep. Ezra watched her a moment, then drifted back to sleep as well, his hand curled around hers.

Chapter Eight

Chris Larabee's drive from Ezra's penthouse to his own home led him hours outside of the city. He just kept driving, his mind turning over each and every memory of his relationship with Amelia Eagan.

The anger he felt just after their bitter shouting match did not subside for some time, and as he drove aimlessly he remembered every other fight they had ever had. And there were plenty. Theirs had always been a passionate yet volatile relationship. Amelia's moodiness and stubborn temper had caused many a rift between them. Chris tried to figure her out for years but finally gave up, choosing instead to ignore her tantrums and simply enjoy the physical pleasures she could bring him. And eventually a time came when he remained with Amelia simply because of those pleasures. This, of course, brought more arguments and more moodiness.

Sometime during the early morning hours when fatigue was beginning to settle in his bones, Chris remembered something else. In his mind's eye, he saw a younger version of himself leaning against the doorway of his bedroom, eyes focused on a very young Amelia and a sly smile on his lips. He watched as she slid out from beneath the sheets of his bed and stood, raising her arms high above her head and lazily stretching her long frame to its full extent. Chris smiled as he remembered how this had always been Amelia's morning ritual. And how he had always been there to watch.

Though still frustrated, Chris whispered a sad "Molly...." then, with a deep sigh, he picked up his cell phone and began calling the members of his team to meet in a few short hours at their makeshift offices. He drove home and took a shower then went straight to the high-rise building to meet the others.

JD was already there, having decided to stay once his shift ended. He offered Chris a doughnut as the team leader entered, but Chris shook his head sharply and proceeded straight into the conference room to wait for his other colleagues. He barely looked in JD's direction. The other officers arrived within thirty minutes and were immediately warned of Chris's mood. Buck was the last to appear.

JD relayed Chris's demeanor to his friend as they walked to the conference room together. Buck's only response was an angry, "I'm pretty mad myself, JD." Buck's eyes cut into Chris's back as he entered the room ahead of the younger agent. And when Chris turned toward the gathered group, his eyes immediately settled on his longtime friend. They stared at each other silently for a moment.

Chris motioned for Buck to be seated, but Buck simply met Chris's stare a little longer, then moved back a couple of steps and leaned against the wall. His eyes remained fixed on Chris.

Larabee looked away finally and studied the faces of everyone in the room. He saw confusion, anger, exhaustion but then also a tiny bit of understanding. He took a deep breath before beginning the speech he'd been rehearsing in his mind.

"I'm sure you've all heard what happened last night," he began, this time turning away from his agents.

JD spoke up quickly, "I heard some idiot in Vice got cocky and ordered a raid on that dance club without telling his supervisors."

Chris looked at JD and answered, "Fortunately, I learned about it in time to get Amelia out." Shaking his head, he continued, "It was a bad scene, and Amelia crossed some lines she shouldn't have." Chris looked directly at Masen Carlisle, who sat next to Nathan at the conference table. "Several people crossed the line." Inhaling deeply and looking away, Chris added, "Ezra and Amelia expect to be working alone from now on."

Chris heard Buck shift on his feet. Expecting an outburst, Chris looked toward the usually jovial man. He saw only stormy eyes. Buck was trying his best to hold his tongue.

Again the eyes of the two longtime partners met in challenge.

Chris added, "I've decided to revise assignments." Drawing his eyes from Buck's, he turned toward the table of men and continued, "We'll still be watching them, but no one'll actually be in contact with them. Not until everything goes down or they need backup."

The agents surrounding the table glanced at each other, questions in their eyes and some annoyance at another shift in duties. Buck's eyes softened a bit, and he lowered his eyes to look at the floor.

Chris responded to their apprehension, "JD, you'll be working with Masen from now on. Officer Donovan is no longer part of this team." Chris made no attempt to mask his anger.

Though Masen was sitting two seats from him, JD muttered indignantly, "I hope he's better than his partner."

Masen's eyes remained on the table in front of him, choosing not to meet the eyes of any of the other agents. He ignored JD's comment.

Chris continued, "JD and Masen will need to know everything the rest of you see and hear. You two will be with Buck tonight." Turning to Buck, he asked, "Where are we on that?"

Buck met Chris's eyes and replied, "I meet him at eleven. He said it had to be late and out in the middle of nowhere. If he doesn't bring me something good, I'm shooting him on the spot."

Chris allowed a smile to touch his lips but only nodded.

Looking at Vin, Chris said, "I want you and Nathan to tail Ezra and Amelia. You'll be living in your vehicles, so from now until this is over, you won't be seeing much of anyone." Nathan glanced at Vin and the two men shared a look of quiet resignation. Chris added, "They'll be on a boat today, so you can use this morning to get your things in order. Nathan, you'll be at the marina when they dock this afternoon, and Vin will relieve you tonight. But I want you both ready all the time in case you need backup." Vin and Nathan nodded.

Finally, Chris looked at Josiah. A genuine smile came to his face as he picked up a large envelope from the table and tossed it in front of the eldest team member. "Congratulations," he said, "you just won the lottery." Josiah smiled and nodded thoughtfully, opening the envelope to reveal a stack of hundred dollar bills.

Chris said, "Josiah's been promoted." To Josiah, he said, "I want you to get into the club and keep an eye on Ezra and on the employees. Especially the managers. I want to know everything's that goin' on in there."

Josiah nodded again and smiled widely, flipping through the bills. "You've got the right man for the job, Chris." The others in the room laughed.

His mood lightened, Chris said, "We're all ready for this to be over, but it's in Ezra lap. We're gonna be there when it goes down, and I don't want any surprises before then." He looked pointedly at each member of his team. They nodded collectively.

Chris responded with a slight nod of his own and said, "Okay. Let's see if we can do better from here on out."

As the others began filing out of the conference room, Chris called for JD to remain. Buck stayed in his position against the wall.

Lowering his voice, Chris said to his youngest agent, "I don't think you need to worry about your new partner. He's not like his friend." Chris looked directly into JD's eyes and added, "But keep an eye on him."

JD smiled and nodded. "Will do, Chris." As he turned to leave the room, he glanced at Buck and was rewarded with a proud nod.

When they were alone, Buck pushed himself from the wall and quietly said to Chris, "You did the right thing."

Chris met his friend's eyes and shrugged slightly. "I couldn't leave her out there. Or Ezra."

Buck nodded. "I know. I just wasn't sure how long it would take you to see that." With an easy slug to Chris's shoulder, Buck added, "I think you're gettin' wiser in your old age."

Chris cut his eyes toward his friend but gave in to a chuckle. They left the office together to bring the other teams up to date on the new assignments.

+ + + + + + +

In the early morning hours, Ezra noted how calm the city appeared from his penthouse view. He couldn't remember the last time he felt at peace in this city, and he suddenly longed for an escape. The thought brought a deep sigh of remorse.

As he moved from the terrace to the bedroom, he noticed Amelia studying herself in the full-length mirror of the dressing area. At first glance she was enchanting, as always, but a closer look revealed the faint circles below her eyes and the hollow stare beneath her still-puffy lids. As Ezra watched her, she drew a deep breath and closed her eyes to the sight before her. He waited a moment then entered the dressing area.

Stepping directly into the closet, Ezra quickly returned and moved toward Amelia. He was upon her before she realized he had entered the small room, and her shoulders jumped slightly at the startle. Ezra stood behind her, his head peeking around to look over her shoulder and into the mirror, then he brought his hands above her head to place a wide-brimmed hat upon it. Positioning it with just a slight tilt, Ezra slid his hands from the adornment and placed them firmly on Amelia's shoulders. He smiled into the mirror as he surveyed her appearance.

Amelia studied the accessory, looking down her form to judge the entire outfit. The navy silk tank and printed sarong were enhanced by the addition of the hat, and the wide brim certainly did wonders in shading her ashen features. She sighed at her reflection, glancing back to Ezra in the end.

He smiled boldly. "Perfect."

Amelia simply sighed again, not convinced entirely, but allowed Ezra to lead her from the room to make their exit. He had opted to allow her extra time to sleep that morning, waking her finally at 8:30. She had not rested, he knew, but once she had fallen into a slumber, he wanted her to garner as much from that as possible. Edward Kepplen would have to excuse any lateness.

As they passed through the living area, Ezra picked up Amelia's sunglasses from the coffee table. Turning around to face her, he gently slid the shades on her face, resting them on her nose with an easy touch. He nodded and smiled again.

"Even better," he said with a slight chuckle, then returned Amelia's hand to his and escorted her from the apartment.

+ + + + + + +

As they neared the dock where Edward Kepplen's yacht was housed, Ezra recognized Jerome Pitts talking with their host. Ezra quietly pointed it out to Amelia, but made no gesture toward the two men. When they reached the boat, Jerome avoided Ezra's eyes but offered a cordial greeting to both him and Amelia. Then he bid them a great sail and excused himself quickly. Ezra looked at Kepplen curiously.

With a slight wave of his hand, Kepplen stated, "We'll speak of it later."

Ezra nodded, feigning dismissal, then followed Kepplen on board, allowing him to assist Amelia first. Ezra surveyed the yacht, making mental notes of everything and secretly wishing he could afford such a luxury himself. When Kepplen began to move through the undocking procedures, Ezra regarded him curiously again.

Edward Kepplen smiled grandly and remarked, "It is a guilty pleasure. I have always loved the sea, the open waters, and I finally decided last year to become a sailor myself. I purchased this yacht and took the necessary instruction to helm it on my own. I hope that doesn't bother you."

Ezra thought a moment, then shook his head pensively. "No, it causes me no concern. You simply caught me unaware." Ezra forced a smile, then nodded to Kepplen and moved to stand with Amelia at the bow of the vessel. She was staring aimlessly across the marina, and Ezra's hands upon her shoulders brought a slight flinch. Ezra squeezed her shoulders reassuringly and leaned close to her ear.

"Don't worry," he whispered.

Amelia sighed heavily, her eyes lowering slightly to stare into the space before her. Then she nodded assuredly. Ezra squeezed her shoulders again, then kissed her neck just below the ear. It brought a smile to her lips.

Straightening to his full height, Ezra slid his hands down her arms and said, "We're almost ready to leave. Why don't you relax? I'm sure this will be a pleasant voyage. I'm not the least bit concerned with Edward Kepplen."

Amelia turned slightly to look toward Ezra. Her mind was far away and still muddled from the night before. She finally nodded slightly and moved to a lounge chair on the starboard side. Within moments, Amelia had reclined and pulled the brim of her hat forward to shade the morning sun from her overly sensitive eyes. Ezra felt a bit of compassion for her but wasted no more thought on it. He moved to untie the yacht from the dock and aided Kepplen in shoving off.

The morning was uneventful. Kepplen enjoyed these outings, at times forgetting he was entertaining guests. He sailed far into the center of the lake, finally dropping anchor in a large cove at the base of the hills. And then he became a gracious host, offering a large catered meal supplied by his personal chef especially for this trip. Amelia and Ezra eventually warmed to their host and enjoyed the meal as if in the company of a dear friend.

Kepplen avoided all topics that might relate to his business ventures, and Ezra followed his lead. But when Amelia excused herself to lie in the afternoon sun, the two men stayed in the dining area below and discussed their recent developments.

Kepplen became quiet as he began to speak. "I'd like to share something with you, Ezra. To help you understand my decision to leave the business I'm in." Ezra gave Kepplen his full attention.

"I met Emilio Covoran when I was a very young man, and he helped me get out of some dangerous situations. Then he gave me a job. I owe him everything, and I've done my very best to honor his name and his memory by maintaining the restaurant and club to his level of satisfaction. These were the enterprises he loved the most. These were the businesses he was most proud to claim as his own. I never set myself contradictory to Emilio in all the time he was living."

Kepplen paused and his gaze drifted into space. Ezra waited for the older man to continue.

With a sigh and a glance down to his glass of wine, Edward Kepplen remarked, "Emilio introduced me to my wife. We were married immediately, and we've been enjoying a certain lifestyle for almost 30 years now. We've raised two children." Pausing, he looked directly at Ezra. "But I've never loved her."

Ezra contained his surprise but his eyes drifted from Kepplen's stare.

Kepplen continued, "I've finally garnered enough courage to leave my wife and family, Ezra. My sons are grown now, the youngest turns twenty-one tomorrow. And I'm finally going to do what I wish I'd done thirty years ago." Ezra looked back up at his companion as he said, "I had a girl once, before I was married, and I should've married her. But when Emilio introduced me to Victoria, I knew he intended for me to marry her. She's part of his extended family. So, I did what I had to do. But I never stopped loving my girl. And I've finally decided to make this right with her. So, I'm leaving my family."

With Kepplen's statement came a long period of silence. Finally Ezra responded, "You want to break all ties to Denver then."

Kepplen nodded. "I want to give the business to you and take my girl and leave." With a sweeping glance around the room, he added, "Sail away and never return."

Ezra stared directly at Kepplen, regarding him, studying him. Then he shifted his gaze from the man and sipped his wine. With a smile, Ezra stated, "Far be it from me to hinder a man's quest to fulfill a dream."

Kepplen met Ezra's gaze and returned the smile. "We have an agreement then?"

Ezra tilted his head in a nod and replied, "We do. Provided, of course, the business is as lucrative as I believe it to be. As you have led me to believe."

Kepplen assured him, "Oh, it is, my friend. It is."

They shared a knowing smile as they toasted their new agreement. And Ezra's mind churned the possibilities that came with these new dealings.

Note: The following scene contains Spanish dialog. If the translate button doesn't work, go here for the English translation.

Vin smiled as he noted the Jaguar pull up to the curb outside his run-down apartment building in Purgatorio. He began to walk toward it slowly, weaving his way through the group of children that surrounded him. Several groans were heard as Vin left them, pleas for him to stay and finish the game of stick ball they were playing. He shrugged and parted company with them, quickly arriving at the car and grinning as he surveyed its driver. He could hear the car's stereo from the outside and grinned wider knowing how displeased Ezra would be if he found out.

Josie stepped out of the vehicle and met Vin at the back of the car. Her eyes were full of concern as she surveyed the neighborhood.

She asked, "I shouldn't have brought this car here, should I?"

Vin glanced at the gleaming Jag and responded with a question, "Ezra lets you drive his car?"

Josie looked toward the sky and shrugged nonchalantly, "Sure."

Vin caught the tone in her voice and grinned, asking sarcastically, "Really..."

Josie grinned back at him and said, "Well, it needed to be driven, right? I mean, he's been gone a week and it was just sitting in the garage collecting dust. He wouldn't want it to get run down, now would he?"

Vin grinned and leaned toward her a little, then said slyly, "I won't say a word."

Josie wrinkled her nose and said, "That'd be best."

They laughed together but were quickly interrupted by a shy little girl with long dark hair and large black eyes tugging at Vin's sleeve. He looked down at her then leaned over so she could whisper in his ear. After a moment he smiled and looked up at Josie.

"They wanna know who you are." He was grinning as he shrugged, "Not a lot of my friends come out here."

Josie pointedly looked around the area and remarked, "I can't imagine why." Vin shot her a sideways glance of mock warning.

Josie squatted down to the little girl's level and said, "Mi nombre es Josie. Soy un amigo de Vin. Cuál es su nombre?"

Vin looked at Josie in surprise as she began to speak to the girl in her own language. The little girl quietly replied, "Rosalie."

Josie smiled and said, "Hola, Rosalie. Usted tiene un nombre hermoso. Cómo viejo es usted?"

Rosalie held up two hands to reveal six fingers.

Josie nodded, saying, "Seises. Tuve gusto de ser seis años viejo. Allí están los muchos de la diversión cuando usted es seises, no son allí?"

Rosalie's shyness began to drift away as Josie spoke with her. And with no hesitation, she asked Josie, "Es usted novia de Vin?"

Josie's eyes widened slightly and then an amused but embarrassed smile covered her face. Vin immediately turned toward Rosalie and playfully scolded, "Rosie! Usted no debe pedir eso."

Josie quickly responded, "Soy amigo de Vin. Justo como usted."

Rosalie's smile lit her eyes, showing a respect and admiration for the woman before her.

Vin interjected, "Rosie, usted debe ir de nuevo a los otros. Josie y yo necesitamos ahora irse."

He touched the end of her nose slightly and smiled at the girl.

Rosalie nodded and ran from them toward the other children. Vin slowly stood but Josie remained where she was for a moment. Her eyes followed the little girl until she reached her friends. When she stood, Vin was again looking at her. She tilted her head in question.

He began to lean toward her but stopped midway, remembering they weren't alone. His eyes took on an apologetic look. He just barely glanced toward the makeshift ball field, then, with a little embarrassed grin, he straightened. Josie smiled in understanding.

"We should go," she said, then, glancing toward the children, added, "Somewhere there isn't an audience." Vin nodded and moved around her to the driver's door.

Josie asked, "You wanna drive?"

Vin looked at her, then at the car as he opened the door, then back to her. He shook his head, saying, "Nah. Not really my style."

Josie moved closer to him so she could look directly up into his face. She simply smiled, holding his eyes for a long moment, then drew away and moved behind the wheel of the Jag. When Vin joined her in the passenger seat, he looked around the interior of the car and said, "Still looks okay."

Josie glared at him. Vin just laughed loudly as she pulled away from the curb.

+ + + + + + +

When the sun began to dip low on the horizon, Edward Kepplen pulled up anchor and set sail for home. Amelia moved again to the bow and crossed her arms around herself, squinting into the slight breeze that had begun with the movement of the boat. Ezra watched her a while, noting how quiet and relaxed she had become as the day wore on. He finally rose from his deck chair and moved to stand behind her.

Amelia smiled when she felt the warmth of his body press against her back, and she turned her head slightly when Ezra drew his arms around her and pulled her close. He rested his cheek against hers, and she closed her eyes with a quiet moan. They stood silently for a moment, then Amelia opened her eyes again and looked across the water.

"Why don't we just let Edward drop us off on that little island over there?" she said, smiling, "We could abandon everything and build a little hut and eat whatever we found on the island."

Ezra smiled and raised his eyebrows in thought. "Hmm... hut dwellers... Darlin', you and I could never be hut dwellers. If we escape the lives we now live, may I suggest we inhabit a more civilized island? Perhaps the Caymens? A place where we are not forced to forage for food."

Amelia chuckled. "Okay. The Caymens it is. Do you think Edward would take us there?"

Ezra grinned only slightly, the amusement replaced by a quiet concern for her. When he didn't answer, Amelia turned back toward him a little and found him studying her. She turned her head a little more to see him clearly. His eyes were compassionate. They regarded one another for a minute, neither speaking a word, then Ezra slowly leaned closer and pressed tender lips to her mouth. She responded hesitantly, so he drew back slightly, though still only centimeters from her lips. He waited a moment then repeated the kiss, this time being met with equal intensity. Ezra quickly deepened the kiss, but Amelia's passionate response drew them even deeper as they stood at the bow of the yacht and shared a brief time of freedom and disregard for everyone else in the world.

At the helm, Edward Kepplen smiled at the scene on the deck below and thought of the woman back in Denver that he loved so dearly.

+ + + + + + +

The yacht returned to the marina just before nightfall. Nathan had been sitting in the darkened SUV for three hours. The first hour didn't bother him, but the second hour made him worry. Then, during the third hour he began to become irritated. He had learned from the first surveillance team that Ezra and Amelia were on board with only Edward Kepplen, and there had been no indication thus far that Kepplen would put them in danger. But Nathan had expected them sooner, as Ezra had indicated earlier in the week, and this delay made him nervous and frustrated.

When he saw the boat dock and Ezra and Amelia step off with Kepplen, Nathan breathed a quiet sigh. Maybe some things would start going according to plan now. Maybe.

He waited until Ezra pulled his borrowed car from the parking lot, then stealthily followed them back to the apartment. He parked two blocks before the building, parallel to the street, and settled in for the next few hours. Nathan didn't really enjoy this part of his job, but he knew Chris had a good reason for asking him to do it. There were many times on this case that Nathan felt less than useful.

He sighed and shifted in his seat to get comfortable while he watched the building up the street.

+ + + + + + +

Edward Kepplen had invited Ezra and Amelia to dinner at Radissi's, but when they returned to the apartment, Amelia immediately crashed. Ezra showered and changed, then left her a note saying he had gone to the club and encouraged her to get some rest. Amelia never woke.

Waiting in the exit of the parking garage, Ezra glanced down the street and immediately noticed the black vehicle with dark windows. He smiled to himself, thankful to know he was not truly alone, then pulled into the street and proceeded to the restaurant. When he entered Radissi's, he was met in the foyer by Kepplen.

Kepplen shook his hand warmly and asked, "Are you dining alone this evening, Ezra?"

Ezra replied, "Molly was a bit worn from the afternoon." After a pause he added, "This will allow us more time to discuss my new venture."

Kepplen nodded, "Yes, I suppose it will."

He led Ezra into the restaurant toward his private table in the back. As they passed the patrons, a commotion was suddenly heard to their right. Both men turned simultaneously to see an impeccably dressed Josiah Sanchez laughing loudly at a table, flanked by two young women of considerable beauty. They were both vying for the undivided attention of their companion, and Josiah was trying his best to please them both. Laughter had been rising above the normally quiet level in the restaurant since the party of three had arrived just a few minutes earlier.

As Ezra watched, he again smiled slightly to himself. And he was secretly grateful for Chris's retraction of his promise the night before. Ezra then noticed Kepplen watching Josiah as well, and felt the need to apologize.

"I am sorry, Edward," he began, "it seems that my former chauffeur is creating quite a spectacle."

Kepplen laughed, "Oh, you have no need to apologize. I suspect he is simply acting out his delight with being able to afford a bit of luxury finally." Turning to Ezra he said, "It seems he has been awarded with a large sum of money, courtesy of the Nebraska lottery."

Ezra smiled, nodding his head. "And he came here to share his newfound wealth." With a cynical snort, Ezra said, "Typical." He turned on a heel and continued toward the back of the room. Josiah's booming laughter again rose above the quiet.

Once seated at Kepplen's table, Ezra asked, "So tell me, Edward. Why did Jerome Pitts pay you a visit so early this morning?"

Kepplen cleared his throat and answered, "He asked me to smooth something over with you." Ezra raised his eyebrows and waited for Kepplen to continue. "It seems our Mister Pitts is a bit intimidated by you, Ezra."

Ezra remarked, "Really..."

Kepplen nodded, "Yes, and frightened of the retribution he believes you have the power to invoke."

Ezra responded dryly, "As well he should be."

Kepplen agreed, "That is precisely what I told him this morning. But, he did ask that I intervene, and I agreed."

Ezra's eyelids slowly closed in an exasperated blink. "Am I to understand that I will not be meeting the man in charge of this enterprise? The man you expect me to join in business?"

Kepplen sighed. "I'm sorry, Ezra, but I can't do anything more. We work for a faceless entity. But we continue out of respect for a friend. I can only offer you what I have. Nothing more. But it is a worthwhile venture, Ezra. Be assured of that."

Ezra looked away from Kepplen, a small defeat planting itself in his heart, then he replied, "I am intrigued by your offer, Edward. I have given it considerable thought. But," he sighed quietly, "I don't like this. If Covo were still alive, I would never hesitate to accept your proposal. I would gladly accept it. However, now, I cannot envision myself working every day for a ghost." He leveled a stare at the man across from him.

Kepplen's eyes revealed his disappointment but he attempted a smile when he said, "I understand. I wish it were different. I wish I could assure you that there is no risk involved. But, as you know, we are partakers of a business ripe with risk. I'm sorry we cannot work this out to both of our satisfactions."

Ezra nodded. "As am I, Edward."

The men became silent for a period, drinking quietly and considering the next step. Finally, Kepplen said, "Well, shall we dine now?"

Ezra lowered his head in a slow nod and settled back in his chair for the rest of the evening.

+ + + + + + +

Vin was thirty minutes late and Nathan was beginning to worry. Just as he reached for the phone to check on him, Nathan caught a quick flash of headlights in his side mirror. Turning toward the street he saw a replica of his own vehicle. Nathan smiled as Vin drove past and then turned left at the next intersection. Nathan dialed Vin's cell phone number and started the engine as it rang.

From his vehicle, Vin answered, "I'm late."

Nathan replied, "I was about to worry."

Vin sighed, "I'm sorry. I went to grab a bite with Josie, and we didn't make it back. I shoulda called."

Nathan heard the apology but sensed that Vin didn't really feel too bad about being late. Nathan had to smile though. It had been a long time since Vin had been involved in a relationship that made him forget about time. He answered Vin, "Don't worry ‘bout it. Ya didn't miss anything."

Vin smiled, "Yeah, I figured. I'm comin' up on ya now."

Nathan glanced into the mirror again and saw Vin approaching. He slowly pulled from the curb and eased into the street, then watched in the rearview mirror as Vin pulled forward and began to parallel park.

"Ezra's at the restaurant, but Amelia stayed behind. She's upstairs now. Lights are off, so I figure she's trying to sleep. If I was her, that's what I'd be doing too." Vin chuckled at his friend but refrained from comment. Nathan continued, "Josiah called a few minutes ago and said Ezra was on the way back. Should be a quiet night."

Vin said, "Hope so."

Nathan nodded then said, "I'm goin' home. Goodnight, Vin. Call if ya need me."

Vin responded, "Will do. ‘Night."

Nathan glanced back once more as Vin settled the truck in place and killed the engine. With a smile, he clicked off the cell phone and proceeded toward his home.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra returned to a darkened penthouse. His mind was so full of possible next steps that he never thought to look at the cars on the street. Vin made note of Ezra's arrival then slumped down in the seat and rested his head on the back. He especially hoped for a quiet night.

Ezra waited for his eyes to adjust to the dim light then quietly made his way to the bedroom. Amelia appeared to be fast asleep, and this pleased him. She wouldn't be much good to him without rest. Especially after her difficulties in the past few days. He stepped into the dressing area and closed the door partway, clicking on the closet light. He studied his reflection in the mirror as he loosened the tie around his collar.

Ezra noticed how tired he looked. He stopped unbuttoning his shirt and stared at the circles beneath his eyes. This case was no more or less dangerous and frustrating than twenty other cases he'd been a part of. But it was emotionally exhausting and beginning to take its toll on him. He always worried a bit when working undercover--worried that his cover might be blown, worried that backup might not arrive in time, worried that it might not arrive at all. But this case had new worries. Besides his job, there was now Josephine to worry about. And Amelia. Whether she admitted it or not, she was not as strong as people believed, and Ezra had seen her fall under the smallest of circumstances. He sighed and closed his eyes. He simply wanted this case to end...and quickly.

Continuing to unbutton his shirt, Ezra stepped away from the mirror. He was startled to see Amelia standing just inside the doorway, leaning her head against the wall and watching him. He attempted a smile but knew it appeared false.

Amelia looked worn and weary. With her long red hair falling in disheveled layers about her face and her sunken eyes clouded with fatigue, she appeared ten years older than she normally looked. For the first time since he'd known her, Ezra realized, she looked all of her almost forty years, and then some. Ezra's eyes took on a saddened gaze.

Amelia watched Ezra with little expression. She simply stared vacantly at him and waited for some response. He hesitated a long while before he spoke.

"You should be deep in slumber, my dear." Ezra was trying his best to keep the tone light.

Amelia nodded slightly and replied, "I was. Now I'm not."

Ezra waited.

Finally, Amelia asked, "Anything new I need to know?"

Ezra turned back toward the closet and continued to undress while he spoke. "Kepplen refuses to expose the man in charge. He claims to have never met him. I find that difficult to believe, but perhaps."

Amelia said, "Either way, he's not giving in to you. He's protecting his assets. I can't really blame him."

Ezra nodded as he sat to untie his shoes and slip them off. "For all the conversations, despite all of the subtle indications from Edward Kepplen, it appears that he will not cooperate as I had hoped." He sighed and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees and staring tiredly at the floor before his bare feet. "I must do better than this."

Amelia watched as Ezra continued to stare, his thoughts turning over new ideas and possibilities for closing their case. After a moment she walked slowly to where he sat, moving directly before him then sitting on her knees. Ezra raised his head to meet her. She looked into his disturbed green eyes, her own eyes filled with concern and understanding. One corner of her mouth turned up slightly, and she raised a hand to Ezra's cheek, pressing the palm lovingly against his skin. Ezra's eyes gave way to a sincere smile.

Amelia gently stroked Ezra's cheek with the tip of her thumb, then just as smoothly drew her hand to his jaw and began to move her thumb across his lips. Ezra unconsciously closed his eyes.

In a whisper, Amelia said, "What do ya need, darlin'?"

Ezra's eyes opened slowly to stare into hers with question. She met his stare and waited before replying, "You've done more for me than anyone should have. What can I do for you?"

Taking her hand from his mouth and cupping his own around it, he moved his other hand around the back of her neck and weaved his fingers in her hair. With a grateful smile, he said, "You just did it."

Amelia smiled and halfway rolled her eyes, settling back on her legs and looking up at her friend and partner. They each looked into the other's eyes, seeing more than most people ever tried. Ezra's fingers inadvertently began to massage her neck, causing a ripple of pleasure to move through Amelia. She titled her head against his hand and sighed with satisfaction. Ezra's fingers moved down her neck then gingerly pulled away and returned to his lap. Amelia's eyes remained closed as she felt her lower lip begin to tremble. She clamped her teeth over it and bit down firmly. Ezra watched her struggle to maintain composure but did not interfere. His surprised eyes simply searched her face. Finally, Amelia inhaled deeply through her nose and opened her eyes. They were moist with unshed tears. An embarrassed smile replaced the tremble on her mouth.

Hanging her head a little, Amelia remarked, "It's never right for us, is it?"

Understanding lit Ezra's eyes. When he didn't answer, Amelia raised only her eyes to peer up at him. A shy grin appeared and Amelia pushed herself up from the floor, then stepped back and looked at Ezra once more. Her disappointment couldn't be masked, but she attempted nonchalance.

Ezra's eyes stayed fixed on her as she stood and as she moved and then as she leaned against the closet and looked at him. The fragility that lived within her tough shell was shining through with piercing intensity. He watched her longer then stood and moved toward her, his vulnerability equaling his reservation.

Amelia's eyes widened a bit as she watched Ezra approach. Without thought, they pressed against each other in a rush and quickly forgot decorum. Their mouths searched frantically, finding lips, teeth, tongues, chins. All thoughts vanished as Ezra and Amelia relinquished self-control and gave in to aggressive carnal behavior, hands roaming and lips fused with passionate abandon.

And then Ezra hesitated.

A slight break in the kiss brought reality crashing upon them, and Amelia pulled back just enough to look into Ezra's eyes. The wildness was still shining in hers, but Ezra's eyes were distant. An apology quickly came through his gaze.

Amelia sighed and lowered her head. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath to regain composure. When she opened them, she focused on Ezra's bare chest. Disappointment made her heart heavy.

Ezra moved his hands to her shoulders and gently squeezed them to reassure her. She smiled reluctantly, not willing to look him in the eye. A tiny, sardonic laugh emitted from her tingling lips.

"You'd do anything I asked, wouldn't you?" Her eyes remained on his bare skin.

Ezra quietly replied, "Tonight, I believe I would."

Amelia's mouth turned up in a smirk. She swallowed the lump that suddenly filled her throat and forced back the tears that threatened to fill her eyes. Drawing a deep breath, she trepidantly walked her fingers up from Ezra's waist to his chest then to his shoulders, finally looking into his eyes and pressing her hands flat against both sides of his face.

Her voice still a whisper, she said, "But you'd be doing it out of pity."

Ezra eyes held hers for a long, tender moment, then he leaned toward her and gently pressed his forehead to hers. With a soft sigh, he closed his eyes and touched the tip of his nose to the tip of hers.

Amelia slid her hands from his face then drew back. Ezra appeared surprised. She studied his eyes and saw what she had suspected. He showed no signs of desire. She sighed once more.

Stepping away from him, she started toward the bedroom but turned back shortly to regard him once more. Her mouth opened to say something but no words seemed appropriate. Ezra waited expectantly, seeing clearly the frustration in her demeanor. With a slump of her shoulders, Amelia dropped her head then slowly turned and left the dressing area. Ezra stood in place for a long minute, his eyes focused to the doorway through which Amelia had just exited. Then his gaze drifted into nothingness. He returned to the present a couple of minutes later.

Crossing to the chair, he lowered himself heavily and leaned his head against the wall. There was no amusement in his eyes, no desire, no dissatisfaction. He felt nothing. A complete emptiness. He closed his eyes and expelled a long, depressed sigh.

+ + + + + + +

Inside the surveillance van, JD and Masen could hear Buck's agitated growls while he waiting impatiently for his perpetually tardy informant. Buck's attitude toward the man had always been negative, but he was especially perturbed on this night. JD had done his best to give Buck something to laugh about, but nothing was working this time.

Buck began to pace angrily up and down the dark street just inside the entrance to the marina. He was already uncomfortable with the meeting place, having seen too many movies in which bodies of cops were dumped into rivers. But this wasn't the main reason Buck was unhappy. He had been strung along for too many months by this supposedly reliable informant, and Buck had begun to tire of the runaround. He had decided earlier that afternoon that this would be their last meeting if his man couldn't produce the goods. No more pussy-footing.

Headlights from an approaching car flashed across the parking lot. Buck turned away slightly and said in a low voice, "Here we go, boys." JD and Masen flipped some switches and settled in front of the recording device.

Buck watched the car pull past him then reverse and back into a parking space across from where he stood. The windows of the black Lexus were too dark for Buck's taste, and he felt his fingers twitch inadvertently. His senses were sharp now.

The driver of the Lexus emerged slowly, looking at Buck nervously as he closed his door. But he didn't step forward. Buck was surprised to see him take two steps to the back door and open it, stepping aside to allow his passenger room to exit. Buck's fingers twitched again, thinking for a moment that he should draw the gun from beneath his jacket. His eyes were slightly wide with apprehension.

Buck watched as the passenger climbed from the Lexus. And his mouth literally dropped open when he realized who it was. Walking toward him across the shadowy parking lot was none other than Edward Kepplen.

Chapter Nine

As Kepplen walked toward Buck, JD and Masen sat in the surveillance van, stunned into silence and listening intently to what was about to take place. This was the biggest surprise yet, and none of the agents knew what might happen next.

Kepplen extended his hand to Buck and said, “I’m Edward Kepplen. I believe I may be able to help you.”

Buck stared a moment longer, then hesitantly clasped Kepplen’s hand. He looked the older man in the eye but did not respond.

Kepplen withdrew his hand and stepped back slightly, trying to judge the character of the lanky man before him. He saw Buck’s eyes shift suddenly to the man at the car and was startled when Buck suddenly pointed toward him.

“Hey!” Buck called loudly as the man began to return to the car, “You stay right there! I don’t want you outta my sight.”

Kepplen glanced around at his driver, nodded for him to do as Buck said, then turned back to the agent.

“I assure you,” he said, “you have nothing to worry about. He is simply my messenger. He has been protecting me by meeting with you in my place.”

Buck’s brow wrinkled in confusion, and he said, “Protecting you from who?”

Kepplen smiled ruefully, “I have found that all officers of the law do not possess the same levels of integrity. I needed to be certain I could trust you and your agency.”

Buck’s eyes narrowed slightly at the accusation, but he did not refute it. He simply answered, gesturing toward Kepplen’s driver, “So this guy’s been stringin’ me along all this time, and he didn’t know anything?”

Kepplen replied, “I’m sorry, but yes, that’s true. I needed to be cautious.”

Buck stared boldly into the older man’s eyes and leaned a bit closer. “I need information.”

Kepplen nodded, “Yes, you do. And I am prepared to present to you enough information to cripple the weapons operation that exists within Emilio Covoran’s empire.”

Buck smiled without humor. “That’s what I like to hear.”

Kepplen replied, “But I cannot give you this information tonight.”

Buck snapped his head toward the sky and exclaimed in frustration, “Of course you can’t!”

Kepplen rushed to reassure him. “I have the information, but I must travel to retrieve it. I have it stored safely outside the city.”

Buck leveled his gaze at the club owner. “I want it tomorrow morning.”

Kepplen drew in a slow breath. “I understand that you are anxious. And I will do whatever I need to do, but you must understand my position as well. I must be discreet. I will need to travel under normal circumstances, such as a business trip. And I will need to meet with you when there is no risk of discovery.”

Buck drew a frustrated hand down his face. With a sigh, he said, “Okay. Fine. When can we get the records?”

Kepplen replied, “I must attend to a family matter tomorrow evening, but I shall make the journey the following day. We can meet late that night.”

Buck nodded, “Tuesday night. Fine. We’ll meet back here?”

Kepplen’s eyes quickly surveyed the marina in the distance behind Buck. “This will be satisfactory.”

Buck almost rolled his eyes, but instead said, “Good. Tuesday night, right here. And you’ll bring the records and everything we’ll need to take this guy down?”

Kepplen nodded. “I will bring what you require.” He paused a moment, then hesitantly added, “And you will provide me with the protection I’ll need?”

Buck nodded sharply, “That’s the deal. We’ll make sure you and your family are protected. Don’t worry about that.”

Kepplen’s eyes drifted away for just a moment as he chose his next words. Then he said, “Actually, my family will not need the protection.”

Buck’s eyes narrowed in suspicion. “What?”

Kepplen avoided Buck’s stare, and replied, “My children are grown, and my wife is in no danger. She’s protected by the Covoran extended family. No one will bother her.” Drawing a deep breath, he clarified, “I want safe passage for another woman and her daughter.”

Buck’s eyebrows rose as he stared at Kepplen, then a sly smile lit his face. Nodding in understanding, he said, “Oh, I see. A mistress.”

Kepplen cringed visibly at the description but did not argue. “Will that be a problem?”

Still grinning, Buck replied, “Nah. No problem. You can take whoever you want. Doesn’t matter to us. Just as long as you give us what we want.”

Kepplen nodded, clasping his gloved hands together in nervousness. “I will give you all that you need.”

Buck added, “Tuesday night. Right here. At this time.”

Kepplen nodded again. “Correct.”

Buck tipped his head slightly in agreement and smiled, extending his hand to Kepplen. “Then we have a deal, Mister Kepplen.”

Kepplen shook Buck’s hand and replied, “Very well, Mister...?”

Buck shook his head. “That’s not important. You just call me if there’s any trouble.” Cutting his eyes toward Kepplen’s driver, he added sarcastically, “Your middle man over there knows how to reach me.”

Kepplen lowered his eyes slightly then acknowledged Buck’s remark and turned toward his car. Buck’s smile turned to a sneer as he watched the man walk away, but he stood in place until the chauffeur had settled his employer in the back seat of the Lexus and driven away. He watched the car disappear into the darkness before returning to the surveillance van parked in the shadows at the end of the parking lot. He couldn’t mask the satisfied smile that appeared on his face. Finally, something was going right with this case.

+ + + + + + +

Morning came bright into Ezra’s penthouse apartment. When he found that he could no longer drift back into slumber, he forced himself out of the bed and went directly to the shower. Even that did not help his overwhelming state of grogginess.

Amelia was already moving around the apartment. Ezra wasn’t sure how long she had been awake, but he knew she didn’t spend the entire night beside him. When he stepped into the living room, she was sitting in a chair beside the window. Though the newspaper was in her lap, she was staring absently out at the city. She didn’t hear him enter the room.

Ezra casually said, “Good morning.”

Amelia only barely turned toward him and muttered a quiet, “Mornin’,” then returned her attention out the window.

Ezra felt the chill immediately fill the room. He watched her for a moment, debating whether to attempt conversation, but decided to leave her alone. He poured a hot cup of coffee and searched the refrigerator for something to eat.

Amelia glanced toward the kitchen quickly then, seeing Ezra’s back toward her, lifted her head to watch him. Her eyes were cold, and anger played on her lips. When Ezra began to turn away from the refrigerator, she quickly snapped her attention to the window again.

Ezra saw the movement of Amelia’s head as she looked away. His teeth clenched slightly. Then he sighed deeply and closed his eyes to quash the frustration that was threatening his mood. When he knew he was calm, he proceeded toward the couch and placed his breakfast on the coffee table. Before he could turn toward Amelia to ask for a section of the newspaper, he heard her rise to her feet.

Turning around to face her, Ezra was startled to see her tossing the paper in his direction as she walked past. His reflexes were quick enough to catch it, but he couldn’t help but stare at her as she fairly stalked toward the bedroom. He waited a moment, then decided he had already had enough of this behavior. He followed her.

She heard him enter the dressing room behind her but didn’t stop to acknowledge him. Ezra watched her a moment, then took the initiative.

“Please tell me,” he drawled, “that you are not angry with what happened last night.”

Amelia looked directly at him with piercing eyes. “Why should I be mad? Nothing happened last night.”

Ezra felt a shiver run through him at the bitterness he heard in her words. He considered his response, not wanting to fuel a smoldering fire, but he didn’t respond quickly enough.

Amelia took a large step in his direction, saying, “I need a shower.” She continued past him into the bathroom, then shut the door and turned the lock.

Ezra’s eyes rolled back into his head and he clenched his jaw angrily. But he didn’t push the issue. There were too many other things on his mind to waste time with this. He returned to the living room to take a better approach to the day.

+ + + + + + +

The morning sun didn’t seem to bother Vin as he dozed in his truck on the street outside the penthouse. It was the cell phone that woke him.

“Yeah?” Vin answered in a groggy voice.

“Vin,” Nathan said urgently, “you asleep?”

Vin slid himself up from a slumping position and mumbled, “Nah, just dozin’. What’s up?”

Nathan’s words came quickly, “Ya think you could stay on a few more hours? Rain’s gotta take her dad to the hospital for some tests, and I wanna be there while she waits.”

Vin replied, “Sure. He alright?”

Nathan responded, “Yeah, I think so. But he’s got some pain, and his doctor wanted to see him. Ya sure you don’t mind?”

Vin shook his head, becoming more alert, “No problem. Take as long as ya need. Ain’t nothin’ happenin’ here anyway.”

“Thanks, Vin,” Nathan answered, “I’ll get there as soon as I can.”

Ending the phone call, Vin let down his window a few inches and drew a deep breath of the cool morning air. His senses comin’ alive again, he looked up at the apartment on the top floor of the high-rise two blocks down the street and watched for signs of life. He saw nothing, and in his mind he was thankful. While he didn’t mind the extra hours, he found himself hoping for a quiet morning. Glancing at the clock on the dashboard, Vin wondered if it was too early to call Josie. He decided it was, but thoughts of her brought a grin to his face. Settling back against the seat, he watched the minutes click by as he waited for the right time to call.

+ + + + + + +

Buck had been awake most of the night. At six thirty, he finally decided to get out of bed and stop the tossing and turning. The dynamics of this case had changed so quickly, and Buck wasn’t sure how it was going to affect all of their players. Chris had opted not to gather the team but rather to inform them separately and allow the agents to stay in place. No one’s responsibilities changed with the revelation of Edward Kepplen’s involvement, but Buck had a nervous feeling nonetheless. His mind soon focused on Amelia, as well as Ezra, and he wondered how much they knew about Kepplen. Buck couldn’t help but wonder if they had been aware of Kepplen’s intentions and hadn’t told Chris. Though it gave him a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach, Buck began to doubt Ezra and Amelia in every way.

And that made him even more anxious to close this case.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra’s afternoon meeting with his California contingents went smoothly. Despite the new developments with Kepplen, he still needed to complete the deal with these buyers. Without a transaction, there would be no evidence. Without his buyers and Kepplen’s suppliers, there would be no transaction. Ezra moved forward according to the previously established plan. Everything else was incidental.

On his return to the apartment, Ezra kept an eye on the vehicle behind him. Vin remained two cars back no matter where he went. Ezra was grateful that Chris had not been so angry with Amelia to leave them completely alone, and he was especially relieved to know that Vin was somewhere near when Ezra met with his buyers. Whether he admitted it or not, Ezra knew he was privileged to be a part of this team of agents. And he knew he had to at least try to play by the rules. It got him nowhere when he opted against that.

At the entrance to the apartment’s underground garage, Ezra stopped before pulling in and watched Vin in the side mirror. As Vin passed him, Ezra noted the identical vehicle already parked on the street one block away. A tiny smile came to Ezra’s lips. The changing of the guard. He returned his foot to the gas pedal and crept slowly to the guard station. The smile grew wider as a distinct feeling of comfort enveloped him.

The rise of the elevator toward the penthouse floor brought a darkening of his mood with every level. When he reached the apartment, he even hesitated before entering. He had no idea what might meet him on the other side of that door.

Entering cautiously, Ezra opened and closed the door as silently as possible, then stepped through the foyer with the lightest of gaits. His eyes moved across the room swiftly. Amelia was nowhere in the first room. He took a deep breath and proceeded further.

Amelia was lounging on the terrace. She glanced at Ezra when he stepped outside, but with her eyes covered by sunglasses, he couldn’t properly gauge her mood. A thick silence ensued.

Finally, Amelia asked, “Any surprises with your guys?”

Ezra was watching her from the corner of his eye. “None to speak of,” he replied, “The transaction should occur exactly as planned.”

Amelia nodded slightly, her attention transfixed on the city scape. After another moment of uncomfortable silence, she rose from the lounger and moved toward the bedroom doors.

“I’ve decided that I deserve some pampering before Kepplen’s party tonight,” she said, “I don’t suppose you’ll need me until then?”

Ezra followed her with his eyes and turned only slightly toward her as she passed him. Evenly, he replied, “I can’t think of anything I might need from you. Enjoy yourself.”

Amelia feigned a chipper response of “I shall!” and entered the dressing room to retrieve her robe. She was almost as anxious to get away from Ezra as he was for her to leave.

On the terrace, Ezra sighed heavily. Of all the things he had to do, attending a party with Amelia Eagan was the furthest from his desires.

+ + + + + + +

By the time Ezra arrived with Amelia draped on his arm, Edward Kepplen’s sprawling estate was bustling with activity. They entered the mansion and were immediately greeted by Kepplen, who insisted on introducing them to all of his associates. Many men had traveled great distances to attend this twenty-first birthday party for Kepplen’s youngest son. Ezra was the perfect guest, making appropriate conversation and rubbing elbows with the proper players. He recognized many of them, aware of each man’s involvement with Emilio Covoran through the years. He expected that they were not in town simply for a party, and he kept a close eye on the more prominent associates throughout the evening. If small meetings began to break out, he intended to be nearby, if not a key part of them. Kepplen’s enthusiasm for Ezra Sullivan made his acceptance quite agreeable to all.

Amelia quickly tired of the game. She played her role of adoring escort with a fair amount of sarcasm, and Ezra continually found cause to glare at her. After a time, she chose to excuse herself from Ezra’s side and found a small group of people she had known from her time in the clubs. Her mood immediately brightened.

As the night wore on, Ezra found himself torn in too many directions. He was trying to be a cordial guest, showering platitudes upon Mrs. Kepplen and her son, the guest of honor. He stayed near his business associates as well, attempting to retain his air of authority and respect. But he kept becoming distracted by the rising volume in the corner of the room. The corner which featured “Molly” as the central attraction.

Amelia’s laughter could be heard above the rest of the group, and sometimes above everyone in the room. To Ezra, she became increasingly annoying with every sound. He finally found himself staring at her with anger smoldering in his eyes. And then he broke.

From across the room, Ezra watched in dumbfounded amazement as Amelia openly joined the small group in taking several lines of cocaine. Not one glance around her, not one thought to the rest of the party. She simply leaned over the table and absorbed the powder.

Ezra stood motionless for several moments. When her laughter filled the room once more, he strode purposefully through the crowd, each footstep heavier and quicker than the last. Even as he wove his way through the guests, his eyes never wavered from Amelia’s position. When he reached her table, he stepped so close to her that his presence cast a long shadow across her form, and she couldn’t help but regard him. The smile that covered her face quickly disappeared.

Ezra’s eyes flared with rage. He stared at Amelia until he saw a slight hint of fear surface in her eyes, and then he waited a moment more before speaking. His words were razor sharp.

“May I speak with you, please?”

Amelia stared into his eyes, a perfect look of defiance, then slowly dropped her eyes and rolled them toward the group around her. She displayed boredom to them, but rose from her seat and started past Ezra. He caught her bare arm and tightened the grip a little too firmly. She tried to pull away, careful not to struggle outwardly, but Ezra’s grip tightened a little more each time she moved.

“You’re hurting me,” she sneered under her breath.

“I don’t care,” he replied, and led her through the back doors to the open-air porch behind the house. When he found a secluded area, he swung Amelia around to face him. His words spilled forth angrily and without thought.

“There is nothing you can say to me that will excuse what I have just witnessed. I trusted you, and I believed in you, and you have now contemptuously extinguished that relationship. I will not be humiliated in this manner. Not here and not tonight.”

Amelia stared at him after he finished speaking then suddenly burst into piercing laughter. Ezra’s eyes filled with surprise, and he glanced around to see if she had drawn anyone’s attention. Several people were looking in their direction.

Amelia’s laughter ceased as quickly as it had begun, and her countenance instantly turned to stone. Her eyes seemed filled with pure hatred.

“I don’t care how you feel,” she snarled, “or what kind of humiliation you think you’ve encountered. It doesn’t matter one bit to me. I’ve played your adoring companion far too long, and this is the end. You have your agenda, and I have mine. There’s no reason we even have to see each other again until the party ends.”

She leveled her gaze at Ezra and waited, more than ready to pounce once more on anything he chose to say. Ezra weighed his options, ran her words through his mind once more, studied her fiery eyes. Then he looked away and stepped away from her without a word.

Amelia hadn’t expected that response. She turned to watch him leave, astounded at the way he had backed away from the fight, and she immediately felt a horrible weight of guilt. Her heart told her to go after him. But the voices that she heard around her kept her in place.

Willa and her boyfriend, Denny, came upon Amelia at the corner of the patio. They failed to see that she was watching Ezra and quickly drew her attention away. Ezra never looked back.

The night dragged from that point on. Ezra found it difficult to keep his focus, and while he tried, he couldn’t refrain from scanning the party every so often for a glimpse of Amelia. Each time he found her, he wished he had not. She seemed to lose her senses a little more with each passing hour. He hoped that she was simply performing an act for her companions, but he feared the worst. And he was thrilled when he finally found a comfortable time to depart.

Excusing himself from the current conversation, he began the search for his partner. After half an hour, he started asking guests if they had seen her recently. He followed the trail they gave him for another forty-five minutes until finally he was certain that she was no longer at the party. He called the penthouse but received no answer. He called her cell phone and heard her voice mail message. Frustrated, he made a quick search of the grounds surrounding the party, but finally resigned himself to the fact that she was truly absent. As Ezra made his way to the front of the house, he spotted Willa and Denny. Perhaps she would know at least when Amelia had taken leave.

“Excuse me,” he said, lightly touching her arm to turn her attention, “I’m looking for Molly. Have you seen her recently? It appears that we have lost sight of each other within the congregating guests.” He hoped his voice portrayed the appropriate amount of sincerity to mask his frustration.

Willa smiled warmly at him. “Hey, Mister Sullivan! Ya lost your date?” She giggled and said, “I haven’t seen her for a couple of hours, but I wouldn’t worry ‘bout her. She’s probably just moved to the next party.”

Ezra’s confusion was evident. “Next party?”

Willa nodded, “Sure! There’s always another party!”

Denny, added, “And if there’s a party, Molly’ll find it.”

Ezra’s eyes glazed over and he shifted his attention downward in thought. Finally, he inquired, “Might you be able to direct me to this next party?”

Willa focused her full attention directly on Ezra, then replied, “You’re worried, aren’t ya?” Seeing Ezra’s stoicism lapse momentarily, she offered, “I wouldn’t worry, Mister Sullivan. Ya don’t really know Molly all that well, but I can tell ya that she likes to have a good time. She’ll probably jump from party to party all night, and then she’ll be home in the mornin’. If I was you, I’d go back to your nice place and go on to bed. You’ll see when the sun comes up!”

Ezra regarded her silently for several seconds then replied, “Perhaps I will. But, if I might have some indication of where she may have gone, I would feel more at ease.”

Denny shrugged, “Yeah, I guess ya would. I figure she went with Marty and her group.” Looking to Willa, he added, “Don’t ya think?”

Willa nodded pensively, “That’s probably right. She was hangin’ out with them most of the night. I’ll tell ya what, Mister Sullivan, I’ll find out where Marty went. How’s that?”

Ezra nodded, “I would be very grateful.”

Willa smiled. “No problem! You just wait right here.”

Ezra agreed, thankful that Denny was accompanying her. His eyes searched the room once again while he waited. Several minutes passed before Willa returned, and when she did she had only sketchy information. Some guests had heard Marty mention a club outside the city, but no one knew for sure if the group had actually planned to go there tonight. It was all that Ezra had, and he was thankful for a starting point, at least.

Quickly excusing himself, he bid farewell to Edward and his wife, then made his way outside and waited for the valet to bring his car around. As he exited the gates of Kepplen’s estate, Ezra noticed the dark vehicle parked on the street. His mind began to churn. He knew he couldn’t begin a search for Amelia with Nathan tailing him. He decided to head back to the city for now. As he drove, he called Amelia’s cell phone once again and hung up at the first word of her voice mail. There was still no answer at the apartment either. Frustrated, he fought the urge to call Chris Larabee, but it rested in the back of his mind nonetheless. Above all, he blamed himself for letting Amelia out of his sight.

Ezra returned to the apartment and entered the underground garage. Instead of taking the elevator to the penthouse, he went to the lobby and requested a second car from the concierge. Kepplen’s connections had given him privileges not usually available to the building’s tenants, and Ezra reasoned that he had every right to use them. Keys in hand, Ezra went up to his apartment and turned off the lights in order to fool Nathan into thinking he had retired for the evening. Then he returned to the garage. Successfully escaping without being seen, he drove back to the outskirts of the city to find the club Willa had suggested.

Ezra’s search stretched throughout the night. He found himself behind Marty’s group each place he was sent. Again and again, he was told he had just missed them. Ezra quickly realized that “just missed them” could mean as much as two hours before. Eventually he found himself back in the city limits, and he instinctively began cruising the streets. While he did not expect to find Amelia, he had run out of other possibilities. And he wasn’t willing to give up the search. Several times, as the night wore on, his mind played tricks, throwing him back to a difficult period of his life, and he saw Josie on the street corners. Each time he worried a little more about Amelia.

He returned to the penthouse around four a.m., exhausted and troubled. His mood was especially volatile. He wasn’t sure if he wanted Amelia to return soon or not, for fear of how he might react to her when she arrived. But when he saw the beginnings of daybreak, he shook off his frustration and opted for bed. He might not sleep, but he was determined to worry no longer. If there was one thing he had learned in his experiences with Josie, it was that he couldn’t change the present situation. Amelia would return when she had the party out of her system. And then they would deal with the consequences.

Chapter Ten

Edward Kepplen ran a nervous hand through his thick gray hair and glanced at the rearview mirror for the fifth time in two minutes. His eyes searched the area surrounding his car, suspicious of every other driver on the highway. His heart was beating slightly faster than normal, and his blood pressure had risen. Yet, in the midst of his anxiety, a smile covered his face as he thought of the woman he would see in just over an hour. Yes, he thought, yes, this is all worth it. This is the right thing to do.

He pulled into the left lane and passed the thick of traffic. Behind him, a few car lengths away, a nondescript government vehicle sped up to keep Kepplen in sight.

+ + + + + + +

Having only drifted in and out of sleep in a two-hour span, Ezra finally rose from bed. As he moved sluggishly through the apartment, a part of him expected to find Amelia collapsed on a couch in another room. She was not there. His mind immediately tried to envision horrendous images of where she might be and what she might be doing,
but he forced himself to look past those thoughts. As he headed to the bathroom for a shower, his cell phone rang. The display registered an unknown caller message. His heart leapt.

"Ezra," the caller said, "It's Jake Allen. I've got something."

Ezra's disappointment that it wasn't Amelia quickly vanished. "I was beginning to assume you had abandoned me," Ezra answered, "I'm pleased to know that is not the case."

Jake chortled, "You kiddin'? I've been working my butt off to get this for you. I want to be free and clear of any favors to you."

Ezra smiled, "Wise decision. So, tell me what you have discovered."

"Well," Jake replied, "I had to go all the way back to Covo's island activities, but I found out that he had a godson he treated just like his own son."

Ezra considered this, saying, "If I were to have no heirs but wanted my business to continue after my death, I would certainly pass the torch to my godson. Of course. And to protect him, I would keep his identity a secret. It makes perfect sense."

"Yeah, it would," Jake responded, "if the godson had lived."

Ezra's face turned ashen. "Pardon me?"

Jake said, "His godson died almost three years ago." Ezra closed his eyes and sighed. Jake continued, "Ezra, my search led me to Atlanta. That's where his godchildren were raised."

Ezra's brow wrinkled. "Did you say god children?"

Jake answered, "Yes. There was a son and a daughter. The daughter is still alive."

Ezra replied, "And living in Atlanta?"

"No," Jake responded, "She left Atlanta several months ago..."

Ezra heard his colleague's voice trail off. "And?"

Jake sighed, "And no one's seen her since then."

Ezra sighed again. "Naturally." He thought for a moment, then asked, "Do you have anything useful for me, Mister Allen?"

Jake's voice gained enthusiasm. "Actually, I think I do. I found pictures of the godson's funeral in some newspapers. I figure there were probably a lot of players there, and you'd probably see some connections. Plus, these are the only pictures of the goddaughter
that I can locate."

Ezra picked up his keys and started toward the door. "I'll meet you at your office in twenty minutes."

When the elevator opened on the garage level, Ezra came face to face with Chase Donovan. Chase looked haggard and worn, his clothes seemed slept in, and his eyes were full of fear.

Dryly, Ezra commented, "Well, Mister Donovan. It seems as though you haven't been taking good care of yourself."

Chase leveled his gaze at Ezra and replied, "I can't find Amelia."

A tiny spark flickered in Ezra's eyes, but he forced himself to show no outward emotion. Instead, he stated, "I believe I remember that you were removed from surveillance responsibilities, were you not?"

Chase's jaw tensed and he answered, "Look, I know she left Kepplen's party before you, and..."

Ezra interjected coldly, "Are you following me, Mister Donovan?"

"I'm following Amelia," Chase replied, "To keep an eye out for her." He looked into Ezra's eyes and added, "Since no one else seems to care."

Ezra slowly closed his eyes in annoyance, drawing a deep breath and raising two fingers to pinch the bridge of his nose. He waited a moment before countering with, "Amelia chose to follow her own leads last night, and she has yet to return to discuss her findings. And I am now on my way to an appointment, so if you will excuse me..."

Chase remarked, "I followed her to three clubs but she never came out of the last one. When I went in to find her, they said she'd left already, but I didn't see her leave."

Ezra resisted the twinge of worry that threatened to rise within him, instead saying to Chase, "Perhaps she knew you were following her and departed through the back exit? She prefers to work alone, you realize."

Chase nodded, "Yeah, I know that. But I'm still worried. I don't like not knowing where she is. There's too many..."

Ezra cut in, "I'm sure she's fine. And when she returns, I'll tell her you worried about her. Will that make you feel better?" His mocking tone was not lost on Chase.

"When you see her," Chase replied, "tell her to call me." Then, through clenched teeth, he added, "Please."

Ezra smiled contemptibly. "Of course."

Chase shook his head at the arrogance of the man before him. He would never understand Amelia's affection for him. But he had to accept that Ezra was the only link he had at the moment to locating her. Turning from the agent, Chase began walking out of the garage, careful to avoid the guard who had not seen him enter. Ezra waited until the young man was gone then got into his car and drove onto the street.

As he traveled, Ezra sought out Nathan's vehicle behind him. He drove carefully, increasing the distance between them one car at a time, until he was almost a mile ahead. And then he turned right and sped up, hoping to reach the next block before Nathan could reach the first corner. He succeeded. Ezra took three more turns before making his way to the highway and proceeding to the FBI building.

Nathan was left in his vehicle, cursing his colleague and angrily searching the streets for any sign of where he might have gone.

+ + + + + + +

Two agents from the FBI watched in surprise as Edward Kepplen's illegitimate daughter caused a scene on the front lawn of her mother's home. From what they could tell, the daughter had refused to leave with her newfound father, and she was trying desperately to
convince her mother to stay with her. Kepplen had stepped out of the argument quickly, realizing this was not the time to exert parental authority. Willa would have to come with them of her accord. He now realized that she would not.

With tears in her eyes, Willa's mother pulled away from her daughter and said goodbye. She looked back repeatedly but finally climbed into Kepplen's car and instructed him to drive away. Willa remained on the lawn, shock and anger clouding her features, until realization finally settled in. She clenched her fists and returned to the house.

The two agents carefully moved out of their position and proceeded toward Kepplen's departing vehicle. They were surprised to see them turn around several blocks ahead and return toward them.

"No," exclaimed the agent behind the wheel, "No. He can't do this. He can't go back."

His partner replied, "He's going. You'd better cut him off."

With a proclamation of disgust, the first agent turned sharply to pull in front of Edward Kepplen. Kepplen just barely missed colliding with the government vehicle. The second agent exited the passenger side of the car and rushed toward Kepplen. Quickly flashing
identification, he opened the door and instructed Kepplen to move into the back seat.

"I'm afraid you can't return, Mister Kepplen," he remarked, "You've made the decision, and there's no going back. I'm sorry. I'll be driving you back to Denver."

Kepplen and his mistress were stunned into silence. Exchanging frightened glances, they accepted the agent into the car and did everything he instructed. The agent nodded to his partner and turned the car back around. They left the neighborhood quickly and drove
straight to Chris Larabee's downtown office.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra entered the FBI offices as discreetly as possible, hoping to see no one he knew. He met Jake in the darkened audio-visual library and quickly came to the point.

"Let's see the pictures," he said, without so much as a salutation.

Jake smirked. He was happy to finally be free of any debt to Ezra Standish. He inserted the microfilm and searched for the news articles about the funeral of Covoran's godson. He zoomed in and cleaned up the image enough for Ezra to make out the faces of the
Covoran family.

Pointing to the screen, Jake commented, "This is the goddaughter. Christiana Rivera."

Ezra sarcastically replied, "Lovely. What do we know about her?"

"Well," Jake began, "we know that she grew up in Atlanta with her younger brother Angelo, and they were very close to their godfather. Their own father was murdered when they were nine and seven years old, so Emilio Covoran stepped in. They saw him every few weeks, and they spent summers on the Covo island. Christiana worked out of
Atlanta, but I found a few records that indicate she made a lot of trips to Mexico and South America. But she covered her tracks so well that they all appear to be business-related."

Ezra asked, "What type of business?"

Jake replied, "Interestingly enough, she has a restaurant distribution company."

Ezra smiled satisfactorily, "Really... Well, that would indeed be beneficial if your godfather was involved in illegal weapons shipments."

Jake nodded, "It would, but there's never been any proof of that. The Atlanta divisions know who she is and how she's connected to Covoran, and they've been watching her since they first became suspicious of Covo, but no matter how many raids have gone down, there's never been any evidence. She's clean as they come, as far as anyone can see."

Ezra caustically answered, "I highly doubt that she's without blemish."

Jake nodded then suddenly moved closer to the monitor. He questioned, "Look at the woman next to Christiana. Could she be a widow?"

Ezra leaned down for a better look. The woman Jake referred to certainly looked the part of a grieving widow. She was seated with the immediate family. Her head was covered with a black veil that hung from a wide-brimmed black hat. Stylish but appropriate. Ezra focused on her face.

He asked, "Was the son married?"

Jake's brow furrowed. "I don't remember seeing that anywhere. But I guess he could have been. This woman is definitely with the family. She's on Covoran's right side. That's a pretty important place to be. It's where I would expect Christiana to be. She must be close to Covoran."

Ezra agreed and queried, "Is this the only picture you have of the funeral?"

Jake shook his head. "No, I think there's one in another file. Let me find it."

As Jake thumbed through the materials on the desk, Ezra studied the picture on the screen. There was something haunting about the woman in question. As he stared at the grainy image, the tiny hairs on his forearms rose and a slight shiver ran across the back of his neck. So mesmerizing was she that he had to step back and force himself to
look away.

"Here it is," Jake proclaimed, taking the first film out of the machine to replace it with the new one, "This is from a newspaper in Mexico. Losing the expected Covoran heir was big news down there."

Ezra dryly remarked, "I'm sure they recovered."

Jake raced through the film until he found the Obituary section. An entire page was devoted to the funeral of Angelo Rivera. Ezra studied the photos over Jake's shoulder, then touched the screen on the bottom left corner.

"That one," he said, "Let's look at that a bit closer."

Jake drew the picture to a full screen size, and instantly the Covoran family filled the monitor. Ezra became silent. The photo was taken after the conclusion of the interment, when friends and family were providing condolences, and the photographer had captured a very clear image of the woman. The caption confirmed that she was indeed Angelo's widow. Ezra stood transfixed.

When Ezra did not comment, Jake turned to look at him. He appeared stricken.

"You okay, Ezra?"

Ezra did not respond immediately. He continued to stare at the photo on the screen. And then his senses returned, and he quickly stepped away.

"Jake," he said as he moved toward the door, "make hard copies of those photos then call me. I'll come back to retrieve them."

Jake leaned in his chair to watch Ezra depart. "Sure thing, man. Are you gonna be o..." Ezra was in the hall before he could complete his question.

+ + + + + + +

The framed print hanging in the living room was hypnotic. The longer Josie studied it, the further inside herself she drew. The image of horses kicking up dust as they roamed across the prairie, reigned only by a lone rider keeping careful watch. It had a calming effect, conveyed a feeling of tranquility. She never heard Vin speaking to her from the kitchen, and she never heard him move up behind her. She was drawn back to reality only by the warmth of his presence as he put his arms around her shoulders and nuzzled his unshaven cheek to hers.

"You're daydreamin'" he said quietly, a smile on his lips.

Josie smiled, still focused on the picture. "Yeah, I am." They stood silently for a moment, then she added, "Every time I see this, it just feels like.... home." Vin smiled and regarded the print with her. She turned her face slightly toward him and whispered, "You feel like home."

Vin's smile became more serious, and he turned so he could see her fully. She avoided his eyes for a moment then couldn't resist and looked up. Her heart leapt at the emotion she saw in Vin's eyes. Affection. Directed at her. She allowed a wide, embarrassed smile,
but she didn't look away. She wanted to get lost in his sparkling blue eyes.

Vin waited a moment then leaned closer and very gently kissed her. She had been waiting for it, and she responded with a firm press of her lips to his. Taking his cue from her, Vin pulled her closer and sought to deepen the kiss. Josie's mind drifted from the present, and
she thought only of the surge of passion that was causing her entire body to tingle. And just as their bodies began to respond on their own, the phone rang.

Vin fought the urge to pull away. He resisted, pressing further into Josie and willing the ringing to stop. Then he relented and pulled back, his countenance reflecting irritation. He looked into her glazed eyes and silently apologized.

"I'm sorry," he said quietly, "I have to answer it. The case and all..."

Josie nodded and smiled. "I understand." She flipped her head toward the phone and said, "Answer it."

Vin grinned and drew a deep breath through his nose. With a slight shake of his head, and eyes full of mischief, he said, "Don't... move...."

Josie's smile increased and a flush crept up her neck. She only nodded, afraid of what words might come out if she spoke. Her mind was a rush of energy and desire.

Vin crossed his living room in two large steps and snatched up the phone with a flourish. "Hello!" he said, his voice a bit too breathless.

"Vin?" Chris asked, "That you?"

Vin's shoulders slumped a bit, and he looked back at Josie. He feared the worst for their morning.

"Yeah," he answered, "What's up?"

As Chris began telling Vin about Ezra's AWOL status, Josie moved to a bureau at the edge of Vin's living room. Several antique items lay atop the chest, the most intriguing of which was an old spyglass that once belonged to Vin's great-grandfather. She smiled as she recalled the stories Vin had told her about the instrument and his grandfather's travels across the Territories in the 1800s . Vin was very proud of this particular piece, and Josie found herself drawn to it as well. She picked it up and extended it, then turned back toward the room and began inspecting things at closer range. Vin found himself stifling a chuckle as he tried to focus on his conversation with Chris but was distracted by the woman across the room. He heard very little of what his partner was saying.

And that's exactly what Josie had hoped.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra was standing in the middle of a bedroom, his eyes roaming over every article housed there. He smirked when they settled on a jewelry box at the edge of the dresser. Being careful of all it contained, he sifted through each bauble, desperately hoping he found nothing at all. A small gold eternity band in the bottom of the box caught his eye. Raising it to the light, he studied it thoroughly, a crease forming between his brows. An inscription was engraved on the inside of the band, and the words he read made his heart sink. He stood motionless for a long minute.

Replacing the ring to its treasured place, he walked from the room and never looked back.

+ + + + + + +

Vin had lost track of his conversation long ago. He was focused on Josie, a full room away from him, trying everything she could think of to distract him. It was working.

Standing in the middle of the living room, she shifted her eyes to glance at the Owen print again. Then she looked back at Vin, a wide grin spreading across her face. Vin glanced from her to the print then back to her with a curious look in his eyes. She grinned wider,
glanced once more toward the picture, then started toward him.

The ring of her cell phone stopped her short.

Looking at Vin with an expression of disbelief, she groaned and moved back to the table to answer it. She saw her home phone number on the display. Frowning, she clicked the answer button and hesitantly said, "Hello?"

Ezra's icy voice came through the receiver. "You neglected to tell me about Angelo."

Josie felt her face drain of color and a sick feeling rise in her throat. She quickly turned away from Vin and willed herself to remain poised. She couldn't speak.

Ezra said, "I'm at your house. I want you to meet me here. Now."

Josie weakly answered, her voice hushed, "Okay." She heard the line disconnect before her word was completed.

She stood a minute longer, holding the phone, her mind racing with thoughts of how to proceed. Then she heard Vin ending his conversation. She quickly spoke into the phone.

"Okay. I'll be right there. Don't worry."

Vin was beside her as she returned the phone to her purse. She couldn't bring herself to look him in the eyes. His hand was gentle on her arm.

"Everything okay?" he asked, concern filtering through his words.

She pretended to be busy gathering her purse. "Yeah," she said, hoping the fear in her voice was not apparent, "Yeah, it will be. There's a problem at the restaurant. I've got to go take care of it."

Vin's fingers slid to her wrist then encircled her hand. With a reassuring squeeze, he said, "Okay. I have to go, too. Some things came up with the case."

Leaning down a little, he lifted her chin to look at him. Her eyes danced away but she forced herself to look at him. His smile sent pangs through her heart and brought tears to her eyes.

Vin added, "I'm sorry this didn't work out."

Josie allowed the tears to fill her eyes and spill over. Nodding, she quietly replied, "So am I, Vin. I really am."

Vin chuckled slightly as he brushed the tears from her cheek. "Hey... we'll do it again. I promise."

She swallowed hard and said, "Sure," closing her eyes and leaning against Vin's chest. He drew her close, comforting her with the strength of his embrace. She felt the sobs beginning in her chest, and she knew she had to leave before she broke down completely.

Drawing away, she moved toward the door without looking at him. He moved in front of her to open it, then held her back with his hand.

With concern in his voice he asked, "This thing with the restaurant, it's not a big deal, is it?"

Josie nodded sadly. "Yeah, it is. I... I'm probably gonna need to be out of town for a while. I'm sorry."

Vin shrugged. "It's okay. These things happen, right? You call me when you get back."

Josie drew her eyes to meet his once more, then tried to smile. She finally forced a tiny nod of acknowledgement. And then she couldn't draw her eyes away.

Vin saw her worry. He wanted to help her, but he didn't know what she needed. So he did all he could think of at that moment. He leaned toward her and kissed her as lovingly as he knew how. Josie felt the tears again sting her eyes as she responded to Vin's lips with an aching fervency. And then she had to back away. She had to leave. She pulled away and whispered, "Goodbye." Then, not looking up again, she turned and walked out the door, waving a hand at Vin in response to his called goodbye.

Tears blurred her vision as she walked out of the apartment and toward her car. She quashed the choking sobs that attempted to overwhelm her, and she sniffled loudly and drew a deep breath to calm her anxiety. Sitting in her car, she pulled out the cell phone and dialed.

Containing her tears, she responded to the voice that answered the call, "Ezra knows." She listened impatiently to the response, then said, "I don't know how. But he knows. He's at my house, waiting for me." A pause. "Yeah, I think we'd better. Just do what we planned. I'll meet you at the office." Another pause as Josie stifled a sob. "And Christi?" She closed her eyes as she added, "Don't hurt him. Just, please don't hurt him."

Glancing once more at Vin's building, Josie took a deep breath and determined to pull herself together. She placed her car into gear and drove toward the meeting place.

Chapter Eleven

The interrogation still ran strong four hours after Edward Kepplen had been ushered into a conference room at the federal building in downtown Denver. Chris Larabee stood in an adjacent room, arms crossed on his chest, watching closely through one-way glass as Buck attempted to extract every minute detail from the only man they had who could help them topple Emilio Covoran’s empire. Or, at the very least, release the foothold that Covo had in Colorado. Chris noticed that Kepplen was still fairly stolid despite his nervousness. With a smirk, Larabee bemoaned the nature of the players in organized crime. Calm and collected, stoic and loyal, no matter what situation befell them. Always cool under pressure. Traits that Chris Larabee could certainly admire.

Buck finally called for a break, leaving Kepplen alone in the room. Chris watched the man’s shoulders relax a bit then turned to assess Buck as he joined him in the outside room.

“He’s given us all he knows, Chris,” Buck said quietly, “I wanna ask him about a couple more things, but I think he’s come clean already.”

Chris nodded silently, pondering the next step, then replied, “We’ve got enough to cripple the operation, but we need to know who’s behind the orders. We need to know where the shipments originate. The meeting places just aren’t enough. The records will only put the lower levels down.”

Buck agreed, “I know. Kepplen can’t tell me the name of the top man. He says he never met him. He’s saying all the same things he told Ezra. I guess we could bring in all of the middle men and see if they’ll talk.”

Chris shook his head. “Won’t do any good. There’s too much loyalty to Covoran.”

Buck’s eyes lowered as he accepted the limitations of their investigation. With some defeat in his voice, he asked, “What now?”

Chris’s eyes were fixed on Kepplen. The man had given them all he could. All he had. He had risked his own safety and the safety of a woman he loved. He had turned his back on his family, and he had chosen to oppose Emilio Covoran’s successor. He had no reason to hold back. Much of his life was now over. He had only one thing left to grasp. One woman to sustain him through the remainder of his life.

Drawing a deep breath, Chris said, “Make sure you get all he knows. Ask him everything you can think of.” Turning toward Buck, he added, “Then hand him over.”

Buck looked toward Kepplen. “Do you think he’ll make it?”

Chris studied the older man in the next room before responding. “It’s out of our hands, Buck.”
A slight smile touched the corners of Buck’s mouth. “If Covo’s people don’t get him, he’ll disappear before the week is up. Kepplen’s smarter than the feds.”

Chris blinked slowly. “That’s not our problem.”

Buck nodded reflectively then returned to the room for another round with Edward Kepplen.

+ + + + + + +

The ATF offices of The Magnificent Seven were a bustle of activity. JD was entrenched in research, pounding out searches on his computer, following every new lead that was given him as a result of Buck’s interrogation. Each new trail brought more frustration for the young agent, but he was determined to exhaust all possibilities with each lead.

Nathan and Josiah had been on the phone most of the morning. They had begun to receive reports early that morning of rumblings within the Covo ranks. By mid-afternoon they had only been able to determine for certain that a traitor had been discovered. The two agents were trying to determine if that person’s identity was yet known.

When Vin joined them, he took over for Nathan on the phone, and Nathan began poring over documentation about Covoran’s organization that had been collected throughout the years. By late afternoon, the agents were all weary and yearning for an update from Chris about the interrogation. Vin occasionally found his thoughts wandering back over his morning with Josie, concerned for her state of mind. He called her several times but each time received her voice mail. He didn’t want to seem worried, so he didn’t bother her at the restaurant. He felt certain she would be fine, but he was concerned nonetheless. He was grateful when Chris and Buck finally joined them.

“What do we know, boys?” Chris asked as he strode purposefully into the office.

Josiah was just returning his phone to the receiver. “It’s not Kepplen, Chris. That’s not the leak they found.”

Chris moved toward Josiah, surprise reflected in his green eyes. “No? Who is it?”

Josiah tilted his head slightly. “Well, I’m not positive, but I think they found out about Amelia.” Chris’s eyes flashed momentarily, but he remained impassive. Josiah continued, “I finally reached one of our agents inside, and he heard rumors that a cop had been discovered within Kepplen’s club. The things he’d been told sounded like Amelia.”

Even before Josiah finished speaking, Chris was dialing Amelia’s cell phone. Voice mail. He called the apartment. No answer. Then he got in touch with the officers who were watching the apartment. They hadn’t seen her all day. Chris’s eyes landed on Buck. Neither said a word for several moments. Finally, Chris gave the order to enter the penthouse. If she was there, it would look like a bust. Replacing the phone, he looked around the room at his five agents.

“We need to find Ezra,” he said solemnly, a hint of anger tainting his words.

No one moved at first, the possibilities settling around them in a dark cloud, then Buck started toward the door. He was met by an agent of the FBI.

The young agent stared up with surprised eyes as he practically ran into Buck. Then he looked past him to find Chris. Moving around the lanky man, he walked directly to the team’s leader. Buck’s eyes followed him into the room.

“I’m Jake Allen,” he offered, “I’ve been doing some research for Ezra Standish.”

Buck immediately returned to stand behind the young agent, his expression masked with caution. Jake attempted to ignore the man towering behind him but found himself completely uncomfortable in this new environment.

Chris asked, “What kind of research have you been doing?”

Jake noticed that the man dressed in black had a mood to match his attire, and he decided it would be best to present his research and make a hasty exit. He presented a manila envelope to Chris.

“Ezra asked me to dig into Covoran’s past. To look past the facts we had, look at his family, his associates. He’s had me scouring every newspaper issued during the last ten years in America, Mexico and South America. Anything with the slightest mention of Covoran.”

Buck interjected, “And you found something?”

Jake nodded quickly. “Covo had godchildren.” The other four agents moved to form a tight group around Jake as he continued. “They didn’t seem to fit into this case at first, but then I found a connection between his restaurants and his goddaughter. She owns a shipping company.”

Chris’s brow was wrinkled as he listened to the man describe Christiana Rivera and her possible involvements with Covoran’s enterprises. When Jake paused for a moment, he asked, “Why were you working for Ezra instead of your own department?”

Jake sighed nervously. “I owed Ezra a favor, from his days with the Bureau. He asked me to do this quietly, in case nothing showed up.”

Buck snidely remarked, “Or in case something did.”

Nathan stepped in a little and asked, “When did you see Ezra last?”

Jake glanced at Nathan, concern in his face, and said, “This morning. But I was supposed to give him these photos this afternoon, and now I can’t get him on the phone. I was afraid he’d been called away, and this was too important to keep to myself. This is a big break.”

Buck suddenly snatched the envelope from Jake, pulling out the photos as the others began to quiz the young man on Ezra’s whereabouts. After a moment of flipping through the pictures, Buck asked, “Who’s funeral is this?”.

Jake replied, “Angelo Rivera. Covoran’s godson. He and his sister were very close to Covoran, like his own children, apparently. And with Christiana’s shipping business, it seems the obvious...”

Buck’s anxious voice cut in, “Chris. Look at this.”

As Buck handed the photo across Jake, the young agent commented, “We believe that may be Angelo’s widow. But I can’t find any record of a marriage. Ezra seemed really shaken by it this morning.” Jake looked between the two older agents and added, “A lot like you’re acting now.”

Chris met Buck’s eyes, then dropped them and slowly looked toward Vin. Surprised, Vin frowned uncertainly.

“What is it?” he asked, visibly uncomfortable with the looks on Chris and Buck’s faces.

Chris handed the photo to Vin with a heavy hand. The team’s best sharpshooter looked at the picture a moment before any reaction could be seen. Then his friends saw him tense his jaw and swallow hard. His eyes were glued to the image displayed in his hand. For several seconds the air was thick with silence. JD looked toward Buck and Chris, then to Nathan and Josiah, but he wasn’t going to be the first to speak. He just kept glancing back and forth amongst his team members, hoping someone might say something to fill him in.

Vin finally took a breath, having just realized he’d been holding it, then handed the photo to whomever would take it and walked toward the window. Nathan took the picture from Vin, troubled by the distress in his friend’s eyes.

Jake was the first to speak. “You guys know who she is?”

Buck quietly answered, “Yeah, we know her.”

Not being able to stand the suspense any longer, JD burst out, “Who is it?”

Buck’s voice became even more hushed. “It’s Josie.”

“What?!” exclaimed JD. “You’re kiddin’!”

Buck leveled a hard stare at his young friend, demanding silence. One quick glance toward Vin at the window, and JD refrained from further comments. Vin’s shoulders tightened at the mention of Josie’s name.

Taking the photo from Nathan’s hands, Chris turned back to Jake. “What did Ezra say this morning when he saw this picture?”

Jake replied hurriedly, “He did just what you did. He didn’t say a word. Just stared at the picture for a long time and left the room without saying anything about it. He just asked me to make these copies and get them to him this afternoon.”

Chris asked, “And you haven’t been able to get in touch with him?”

Jake shook his head. “No. I’ve been trying for hours, but I can’t get him.”

Chris and Buck exchanged glances, and then Chris drew a deep breath. His mind churned through the possibilities. But he was very sure of himself when he spoke.

“Okay. We’ve got some new leads to work. JD, find me everything you can about this Rivera woman. What’s her name?”

Jake answered, “Christiana. Christiana Rivera. Her brother’s name was Angelo.”

Chris nodded. “Okay. Get me everything there is about the both of them. And I want it yesterday, JD.” JD was already at his computer as Chris proceeded to give instructions to his remaining agents.

“Josiah, I want you to find Amelia. When’s the last time we saw her?”

Nathan supplied, “She went to Kepplen’s party with Ezra. That’s the last time I saw her.”

Chris asked, “Did she leave with Ezra?”

Nathan began nodding, then hesitated, frowning slightly. “Ya know, I’m not really sure. I never saw them leave the house. I only saw the car. And the windows are so dark I can’t ever see inside. I guess I just assumed she was with Ezra.” Nathan’s voice betrayed the sudden guilt he was feeling.

Chris brushed aside Nathan’s burst of conscience. “It’s not your fault, Nathan. There’s no way you could’ve known. And Ezra wasn’t exactly cooperating these past few days. Let’s just try to find someone who’s seen her since the party.” Nathan and Josiah nodded in unison and moved toward their desks. Vin was suddenly walking toward the group.

Chris turned toward his friend and looked at his face. Vin’s features were taut, and, though his eyes burned with anger, Chris could see how hurt he was. He did not look at Chris. As he passed the men before him, Vin glanced over to JD.

“While you’re looking up all that stuff, JD,” he said in an even tone, “find out everything you can on Josie Cavendar.” He moved toward the door. “And when ya get it, call me.”

JD questioned, “You sure, Vin?”

Vin turned back toward the youngest agent and stared directly at him. His voice clipped with bitterness, he said, “I’m sure. I wanna know everything there is to know about her. I don’t want any more surprises when I take her down.” Vin turned on a heel and walked out of the office. Five pairs of eyes followed him.

Buck glanced at Chris, but Chris was already looking toward Nathan. Without Chris saying a word, Nathan knew what his job would now be.

“I’ll stay with him,” Nathan said, grabbing up his jacket and starting toward the door.

Chris called after him, “You call me every hour.”

Nathan nodded and waved a hand in acknowledgment, disappearing into the hallway.

Chris waited a moment, taking several deep breaths to clear his head, then continued his earlier instructions. “Buck, go back and talk with Kepplen about Amelia. Find out what he knows about the party. Somebody has to know where she is.” Buck was heading out of the door before Chris’s statement was complete, and his countenance reflected the urgency they all were feeling.

Chris stood alone in the center of the outer office, listening to JD’s click of the mouse intermingle with Josiah’s voice as he sought clues from his contacts. Suddenly Chris was very tired. Taking a deep breath, he muttered, “How did this get so ugly?” With no response, he chose to move into his office to await the next bombshell.

+ + + + + + +

Vin’s attempts to control his anger had become thinly veiled as he searched through the furnishings in Josie Cavendar’s home. Nathan felt uneasy from the start. The search was, of course, illegal, and they had gained access to the home in a unlawful way, but Vin was determined and Nathan couldn’t stop him. He simply watched the angry young man for signs of the impending explosion as Vin virtually unearthed everything in the condo. And when nothing telling could be found, Vin’s anger began to bubble just beneath the surface. Nathan halfway wished Vin would just start ranting and get it over with. But that never happened.

Vin satisfied his curiosity within the home, declaring it a worthless search, then started toward the door to leave. He stopped short as he reached the credenza at the entrance. His eyes settled on a framed picture of Josie and Ezra. He remembered Josie’s voice from the day she told him about it, about a friend who had snapped the picture at a party in Georgia. Josie and Ezra, face to face, smiling together, each absorbed in the company of the other. Completely candid it was, capturing the obvious connection shared between the two friends, the loyalty, the love. Vin clenched his teeth as he stared at the picture now. It seemed to hold new meaning.

Nathan waited on his partner. There was no rushing Vin. It had to be played out. He was surprised, though, when Vin said nothing at all and walked out of the door. Nathan glanced at the picture once more, sighed and followed Vin. Locking the door behind him, he noticed Vin staring up at the roof of Ezra’s home next door.

“What is it?” Nathan asked.

Vin began moving toward the home and called back, “Ezra’s got a security camera. I wanna see what’s on the tape.”

Nathan watched as Vin once again gained illegal access to another home. Unlike Josie’s place, Vin didn’t know the code to this alarm, and Nathan knew they would have company soon. He opted to stay outside the door and watch for the security patrol that would inevitably follow.

It took Vin fifteen minutes to find the equipment. He might have been impressed with Ezra’s security setup had he not been so angry at that moment. And with little time to spare, he decided to grab all the tapes he saw and take them to the office to view. He was coming out of the door when Nathan saw the security patrol car turn the corner. He glanced at Vin uncertainly.

Vin kept moving toward his Jeep. Nathan looked again toward the approaching car, then back to Vin, and finally followed the agent to his vehicle. Vin backed out of Ezra’s driveway and turned his Jeep toward the security patrol, pulling up beside them. He displayed his badge to the officers and looked squarely into the eyes of the driver.

“Sorry for the trouble, guys,” Vin stated, “We forgot to get the alarm code from our partner when we came out here. That’s his house. Ezra Standish. He asked us to pick up some stuff for him while he works a case, and I just forgot about the alarm. Won’t happen again.”

Vin gave the rent-a-cops no time to ask questions. He just tipped his head slightly when he finished speaking and drove away without looking back. Nathan forced himself to look straight ahead, but he was dying to see the looks on the faces of the two officers. He found himself smiling for the first time all day. Glancing back to Vin, he noticed that the mood was not contagious.

Vin drove from Josie’s home to her place of employment. Walking inside the restaurant, he realized he’d never actually been there before. His mood darkened further.

No one at the restaurant had seen Josie since the night before. She was supposed to work that afternoon, but she’d arranged for another manager to take her place. All anyone knew was that she’d had an unexpected situation arise and was probably going to be out the rest of the week. They had no details, but as Vin and Nathan were leaving, one of the waiters mentioned Radissi’s Lounge. She did some singing there, he said, and they might know more about Josie’s situation.

Vin’s brow wrinkled at the mention of the club. He stood silent as the waiter spoke, then continued to stand when he had finished. Nathan quickly thanked the waiter and prodded Vin toward the door. Vin soon snapped back to the present.

In the parking lot, Vin cursed himself under his breath. “How could I miss it? We were right there, and we didn’t see her. How could we not see her?”

Nathan knew Vin wasn’t asking for a response. He listened patiently as Vin finally allowed his anger to seep through the walls he’d built around his emotions. Vin’s words were few but powerful as he relayed every time he had been with Josie and every little incident that now seemed glaringly obvious. How could they have missed it?

Nathan’s thoughts took a different turn. Ever since that morning when Ezra had purposely left him behind, Nathan had been questioning Ezra’s actions throughout the investigation. And now, with an obvious betrayal before them, Nathan felt certain that Ezra was involved with the wrong side of the case. If nothing else, his relationship with Josie would certainly color his thinking, and Nathan now believed Ezra had been leading them down a wrong path all along.

As they returned to the federal building, both men hoped that Ezra’s security tapes would give them some clear answers.

+ + + + + + +

No one had seen Amelia Eagan since the night of Edward Kepplen’s party. Kepplen confirmed to Buck that her true identity had indeed been revealed, but he knew of no one who planned to use that against her. The general consensus, according to Kepplen, was that Amelia was harmless to them as long as you fed her desires. Denny Ayala had been the initial person to point this out to the organization, remembering her from his time in Atlanta when he was nothing more than an errand boy. Amelia had been a mainstay in the clubs and restaurants, working a different angle but playing the same games. She had always teetered between both sides of the law, but she was never a threat to their business. Denny had learned quickly that the way to control Amelia was to keep the threat of exposure hanging over her head. But this time, in Denver, Denny had found no reason to use it yet. He had been waiting for the opportunity, Kepplen explained, the chance to control her when she threatened to expose the dealings. But she never got that close to them. She never became a threat. Her disappearance came as a surprise to everyone.

By the time Kepplen had relayed all he had heard from Denny Ayala, Buck was red-faced. He heard all that was said, but he didn’t believe for one second that Ayala wasn’t involved. With Kepplen still talking, Buck left the room and phoned Chris with the details. Chris attempted to keep his voice level, but a sudden fear for Amelia came through anyway. He promised Buck that he’d find her and immediately set the wheels in motion.

+ + + + + + +

When the APB crackled across his police scanner, Chase Donovan sat up quickly from his slumped position on the couch. He hadn’t slept in days, and his apartment was in shambles. But the bulletin finally confirmed what he had known all along. Amelia was missing, and not of her own will.

Without a second thought, Chase rushed from his apartment and ran to his car.

+ + + + + + +

Vin very nearly threw the useless videotape across the room as he took it out of the player in Chris’s office. Chris avoided his friend’s eyes. Very calmly, Chris picked up another tape and inserted it into the machine, then pushed the fast forward button on the remote control and silently returned to viewing. Vin took a deep breath, waited a moment and took another one, then counted to ten in his mind. After another long moment he felt enough in control to return to the task. As he turned back to the television, he saw Ezra’s image. Chris backed up the tape and played it in real time.

Vin and Chris moved closer to the screen as they watched Ezra. Departing his vehicle, Standish never once looked around him as he walked to Josie’s door, but his countenance was full of worry. He was inside the condo for more than thirty minutes, the tape revealed, and then a second car pulled up on the street. Vin and Chris moved even closer. Three large men with dark complexions and impeccable clothing had moved in unison from the car to Josie’s home. Within seconds, they had returned into view, two men in front followed by the third with Ezra in tow. The third man had one hand on Ezra’s arm and the other clamped on his opposite shoulder. Ezra’s face was masked, but Chris didn’t see fear reflected there. Vin’s heart leapt in his chest as he watched the scene.

Ezra was forced into the backseat of the car while the first two men moved to Ezra’s vehicle. The third man took his place behind the wheel and backed the car from the driveway. As he turned to drive away, a second backseat passenger came into view. Chris froze the tape and stared harder. Vin squinted his eyes and peered closer also, then moved to the door and called for JD. When the young man stepped into the office, Chris directed his attention to the screen.

“That’s her,” JD confirmed, “That’s Christiana Rivera.”

Chris nodded. “That’s what I thought.” Rewinding the tape, Chris called out the license plate number on the Rivera vehicle, waiting for JD to write it down, then played the tape once more until both vehicles disappeared from view. JD rushed back to his computer to track down the vehicle.

Standing slowly, Chris clicked off the television and stared out of his window to the darkening city below. Vin watched his partner a long while before speaking. And even then, he had little to say about the situation.

“Didn’t look like he put up much of a fight.”

Chris continued to stare out the window, and Vin’s eyes eventually drifted to the sky as well. After a moment, he sighed and turned to leave Chris’s office. He turned back slightly at the sound of Chris’s voice.

“We’ll find ‘em.”

Vin’s silence caused Chris to look around at him. Finally, Vin nodded and answered, “Count on it,” before walking through the doorway and settling at his desk.

Chapter Twelve

The area beneath the Broadway viaduct was unusually quiet for four a.m. A patrol car slowed as it moved through the streets, the two officers inside casually scanning the area with jaded vision. Bodies lined the street--some huddled together for warmth, some half-dead anyway. The same thing every night, it seemed. Different faces at times but all with similar stories. Homeless people without a break, runaways afraid to return home, drug addicts too high to remember how they came to be living there. The senior of the two officers shook his head ruefully. He had lost compassion for these people long ago and now just patrolled out of duty. He couldn’t help them. They wouldn’t let him. Too many times he had attempted to sober up an addict, to rehabilitate a prostitute, but to no avail. He would see them back on the street within a week. The officer now glanced over them without a second thought.

As they neared the end of the darkened street, the younger officer pointed toward the shadows.

“She’s new,” he said matter-of-factly.

His partner nodded slightly. “Yeah, there’s always a new one out here.”

As he drove past the slumped form of the woman, his partner squinted toward the figure. “Slow down,” he instructed, leaning toward the backseat to take a better look. The senior officer slowed only a bit. With a furrowed brow, the younger man asked, “Didn’t we get a report about a woman in a red dress?”

The older officer frowned in thought. “Did we?”

Grabbing his flashlight, the younger officer opened his door saying “Stop the car” while exiting the vehicle.

Pointing the flashlight in the direction of the woman in red, the officer cautiously approached her, being careful to survey the surrounding area while he walked. The woman was lying in a lifeless heap amidst a mound of torn newspapers and forgotten refuse. The officer squatted before her and leaned close, listening for sounds of life. When he heard nothing, he reached toward her and pushed her head back a bit to examine her face. Thick tresses of deep red fell around her ashen features, remnants of makeup still caked upon her face. The young officer stared silently at what was once a beautiful woman.

“A shame what people’ll do to themselves,” his partner said from behind, startling the young officer with his words.

The younger man moved closer to the woman and placed his ear next to her mouth. He was still for several long seconds. Pulling back quickly, he said, “She’s just barely alive.”

His partner smirked then shrugged and said, “Give her a few hours. She’ll be fine.”

The younger officer glared back at his partner, making a mental note to retire before he stopped caring about people. Placing his arms around the woman’s waist, he hoisted her body to a standing position. The woman’s full weight fell heavily against his chest, her head lolling back and forth before crashing into his shoulder. He balanced her as best he could and scooped up her legs to carry her to the patrol car. His partner watched in amazement for a moment before protesting.

“Wait a minute,” the older man started, “Hold on. We ain’t takin’ that woman anywhere. We cain’t go rescuing every pretty face you see out here.”

The younger man struggled with the back door as his partner complained, finally getting it open far enough to lay the woman inside. His partner finally ran out of words to say.

Shutting the door, the younger officer faced off against his partner. “That woman don’t belong out here. My guess is somebody’s looking for her. We need to make sure they find her.”

The two partners stared at each other for several seconds, neither saying a word and neither willing to back down. Finally, the younger cop remarked, “If we don’t go now, she’s gonna die in the back of your car. You wanna explain that?”

With one last glare, the older partner turned away and climbed behind the steering wheel, muttering profanities under his breath. As they drove away, his partner radioed their discovery to the station house, stating their intention to take the woman to Denver General before returning to their patrol. Nervously glancing back at the wretched form behind him, he hoped they weren’t too late.

+ + + + + + +

Chase’s eyes drifted off the road to stare at his police radio as he heard the exchange between the officer and his dispatch. The description he gave of a woman with long red hair wearing a red dress sent Chase’s heart straight into his throat, and he fought to catch a breath as he listened to the young officer speak. The description of her condition evoked a gag reflex in Chase, and his eyes stung with sudden tears. When the name of the hospital was spoken, Chase slammed the accelerator to the floor of his car.

In a whisper, he urged, “Hang on, love,” as he sped toward General.

+ + + + + + +

Buck’s long legs were stretched before him with feet propped upon his desk as he leaned far back in his chair and stared at the ceiling. He had counted every tile on that ceiling, at least three times. But he continued to count, knowing that he would make himself crazy if he allowed his thoughts to take over. At least he was being productive.

He saw the blur of motion from Chris’s office before he heard the man’s words, and he knew they’d found Amelia. Dropping his feet to the floor with a loud thud, he brought JD to sudden wakefulness. JD jumped completely out of his chair to a standing position before he realized he was awake. But the look on Buck’s face as he met Chris’s eyes was enough to keep JD from protesting the startle.

Chris stopped just long enough to gain Buck’s attention before continuing toward the door. Buck was at his side in an instant, his long strides quickly overtaking Chris’s steps as they exited the office. Chris had said only three words.

“They found her.”

+ + + + + + +

Chase arrived at the hospital just moments before the two officers arrived with Amelia. A trauma team was already in place. Chase stood in the emergency bay and stared open-mouthed as Amelia was lifted from the backseat of the patrol car and placed on a gurney. She looked as close to death as anyone Chase had ever seen. His heart ached.

He followed as Amelia was rushed to a trauma room and stood on the fringes as they began to assess her condition. Her breaths were intermittent, her pulse quick, blood pressure elevated, pupils dilated. Chase’s throat constricted.

Noticing Chase at the edge of the room, a nurse moved toward him, intent on asking him to leave. He spoke to her before she could reach him.

“She’s been using cocaine,” he said, his eyes fixed on Amelia. The doctors looked his direction suddenly. “Cocaine,” he repeated.

The eldest doctor attending to Amelia asked, “Do you know how much?”

Chase’s eyes remained on their patient as he shook his head slowly. “No,” he managed quietly, “Not a lot. Just enough to get a little buzz, usually.” He waited a moment, then added, “But she’s been missing for two nights.”

The doctors glanced at each other without words then set back to their task. The nurse touched Chase’s arm gently. “You’ll need to wait outside, sir,” she said, her voice compassionate and soothing. Chase stared a minute longer at Amelia as the doctors attempted to stabilize her breathing. Taking a deep breath, he pulled his eyes away and returned to the present crisis. Walking toward the waiting room, he met the officers as they were leaving.

“Excuse me,” he began, “where did you find her? The woman you brought in?”

The junior officer answered, “Under the Broadway viaduct.” Then, seeing the anguish in Chase’s eyes, he asked, “She’s not an addict, is she?”

Chase’s eyelids lowered involuntarily. “Not the kind who would be at Broadway.”

The officer nodded, confirming his suspicions. He waited a moment longer then clamped a reassuring hand on Chase’s shoulder and said, “I hope she turns out okay.” Chase acknowledged his statement with a slight nod but turned away before his emotions overcame him.

As the officers left the building, Buck rushed into the waiting area followed shortly by Chris. Chase heard them before he saw their faces.

Towering over the nearest nurse, Buck gruffly asked, “Where’s the woman that the cops brought in?”

Before the nurse could respond, Chase called out, “She’s down the hall. They’re working on her now.”

Buck and Chris simultaneously looked toward Chase, but neither responded immediately. The nurse took the opening.

“Do you men know the woman?” she asked.

Chris turned back to face her and nodded. “She’s a federal agent. How is she?”

The nurse shook her head. “I don’t know. They just took her in. She was in pretty bad shape when they got here.”

Chris responded, “You think you could find out for us?”

The nurse looked into the intense green eyes of the man before her and felt compelled to help him. She nodded and asked them all to wait there. Buck began to pace. There was little information when the nurse returned. Yes, she had overdosed. They were doing some tests to determine the extent. Her breathing had stopped, but a drug called narcan had prevented intubation. She was awake for a few moments, but had drifted away again. The doctors were stabilizing her, and she would probably be taken to ICU shortly.

Chase’s heart felt as if it might burst. He wasn’t sure how much more he would be able to listen to. Buck withdrew to the edge of the room. The nurse promised Chris she would keep them informed then left them to attend to other duties. A desk clerk caught Chris’s attention.

“I need some information about her. Is there a family member I could call?”

Before Chris could respond, Chase moved toward them. “I’m her brother,” he said, avoiding Chris’s deliberate stare as he took a clipboard from the clerk. He listened to the instructions then moved back to the chairs. As he passed Chris, he glanced up only long enough to see the disapproval in the agent’s eyes. Chase didn’t care. Seating himself with the forms, Chase began reading through the questions and realized he couldn’t answer them. Name: Amelia Eagan. Birthdate: unknown. Address: unknown. Allergies: unknown. Chase stared at the blank form in frustration and sighed.

Chris sat two seats away from Chase and reached for the clipboard without speaking. Chase followed it with his eyes then watched as Chris began to fill in every blank on the form. Chase’s inadequacy came crashing upon his shoulders. He continued to watch Chris’s hand move as he completed the form until Buck’s pacing distracted him. Then he began to study the ATF officer.

Buck’s face was colorless from exhaustion, and his brow held a deep indentation from hours of worry. He paced with no thought to his action. Chase sensed that the motion was comforting for the older man, a sort of relaxation technique to keep him occupied. But the nervous twitch of his hand as he repeatedly ran it through his hair, across his mustache, down the side of his jeans, belied the frustration that bubbled beneath his exterior. Chase knew then that he wasn’t alone in this anymore.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra shifted again in the uncomfortable desk chair. His arms ached from being twisted behind him for over 24 hours, and he moved his wrists in a vain attempt to reduce the discomfort made by the handcuffs attaching him to the chair. But his eyes never left the large bodyguard who had been his only companion since he was taken from Josie’s home and brought to this upstairs office in an abandoned airplane hangar.

Ezra had attempted conversation several times, mostly just to relieve the intolerable silence, but found the man to be uncooperative. And Ezra’s attempts at humor had eventually turned too sarcastic for the man’s taste, bringing across Ezra’s cheek the butt of the pistol he wielded. Ezra’s cheek itched as he remembered the sting of the metal as it met his cheekbone. And the caked blood trickle down his face drew the skin taut and irritated his skin. But Ezra continued to stare.

And wait.

+ + + + + + +

Josie stood at the window, her attention fixed on the run-down hangar half a mile from the building she occupied. From her vantage point, the hangar looked abandoned. That was good, necessary for their survival at that point, but she felt the presence of its inhabitant deep within her. Her soul ached with his fear; her head pounded with his anger; her heart wrenched with his disappointment. Disappointment begat from unflinching trust. Josie closed her eyes and wished the time to fly.

Christiana Rivera completed giving assignments to her gathering of henchmen. “The priority is now security,” she instructed, “By no means will we be found. It is your job to ensure our safety and secure our cover. It should appear to be business as usual. You have your assignments. I’ll contact you again in two days. Questions?” No one dared. “Good. Go.”

Ten men filed from the tiny room in the abandoned offices of the dilapidated airstrip. Christiana began gathering her belongings, glancing once at Josie’s distant gaze, and fought the desire to reprimand her friend. Instead, she commented, “You knew this day would come.”

Josie shook herself from the reverie with a toss of her head. Looking at the woman across the room, she responded, “I did. But I hoped it would turn out differently.”

Christiana twisted her mouth slightly to repress her tongue then decided not to hold back. Turning to look directly at Josie, she said, “I told you from the very beginning he would be trouble for us. There’s no other way to do this.”

Josie looked into Christiana’s dark eyes and saw intense loathing. She sighed slightly. “He won’t stand in the way, Christi. He won’t. We don’t have to worry about him. We just need to keep him hidden for a while.”

Christiana studied her friend with a hint of disapproval in her expression then shook her head in resignation and turned her back to Josie. Stuffing papers in her briefcase, she said, “We’re asking for trouble by keeping him. They’ll be crawling the city to find him.”

Josie responded, “Maybe. But maybe not. He’s notorious for doing things his own way. They usually don’t launch a full-scale search for a couple of days.”

Christiana turned around and moved directly in front of her partner. “We’ve lost one day already.”

Josie nodded and lowered her eyes. “I know.”

Turning abruptly and moving toward the door, Christiana commented, “I think you’re wrong about him, but we’ll do it your way first.” Glancing over her shoulder, she added, “But if he steps out of line one time, I’m dealing with it myself.”

Josie’s heart filled with mixed emotions as Christiana led them from the office to a waiting car below.

+ + + + + + +

The nurse touched Chase’s shoulder as she spoke. “You can go in now.”

Chase stood quickly, running a hand across his face to awaken his senses. He glanced across the waiting room toward Chris Larabee. The controlled expression of the man in black did not change until Chase left the room. Chris listened as the nurse’s trailing voice explained what Chase would see when he entered ICU 4.

“She’s sedated, so she won’t be awake. But sometimes patients can sense the presence of family members, so you should talk to her. Just don’t be surprised if she doesn’t respond. She’s on several monitors and an IV, and she looks quite the worse for wear. She’s not the same woman you knew. She’ll never be that woman again, but she’s a very lucky woman to have survived this...”

Chris looked to Buck as the voices faded from earshot. Buck’s eyes were vacant, large bags having formed below them, and his countenance was sunken. Chris knew he hadn’t slept well for weeks, and it was beginning to show in his features. Rising stiffly from his chair, Chris walked down the hall to the lounge a few rooms away, helped himself to two cups of coffee, then returned to nod at the pretty young nurse who had offered to help them in any way she could. Buck didn’t see Chris approach until the coffee’s steam was rising into his nostrils. He shook himself back to the present and accepted the cup.

After several sips, Buck attempted to speak. “It’s always the waiting I hate.”

Chris nodded as he sat in a chair near his long-time partner. They said nothing for a long while as they sipped the coffee and listened to the quiet workings of the Intensive Care Unit. Chris watched the nurses tend to their duties, but Buck continued to stare at the floor beneath his feet. Twenty minutes passed before Chase returned.

Buck stood as soon as Chase entered, his eyes full of question and concern but his mouth unable to form the words. He had seen them take Amelia from the trauma room. She was only the shell of her former self. He wasn’t sure he wanted to see that again.

Chase read Buck’s expression. “She’s not awake. I don’t know if she heard me or not. There just wasn’t?” he sighed, swallowing the lump caught in his throat. “She didn’t respond to anything.”

Buck’s eyes drifted from the young officer before him, a glaze forming over them as he listened. Chris stood a moment then turned back to the chairs and took his former position. Chase waited a second then followed suit. Only Buck was left standing as they began their vigil once again.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra’s chin rested on his chest where it had lain since he dozed off from exhaustion. He did not hear the door open behind him.

Josie entered first, immediately moving to Ezra and kneeling before him. She called his name but received no answer. Anxiously glancing toward Christiana, she asked, “Is he drugged?”

Christiana looked to the man who had been guarding Ezra, her eyebrows raised in question. “No,” he replied in a thick South American accent, “he’s asleep.”

Josie leaned down to peer up into Ezra’s face, her hand gingerly brushing the caked blood on his cheek. She moaned angrily, “I asked you not to hurt him.” Christiana looked at her man across the room and rolled her eyes in exasperation.

Ezra heard the familiar voice, but it was distant. He fought to draw himself from slumber, the pressure in his head threatening to close out the world. The sound of his guard’s voice brought him closer to wakefulness, and then Josie’s voice again drew him out. His eyelids flickered slightly but did not open.

“Ezra,” Josie whispered, “Ezra, wake up.”

Ezra’s eyes fluttered open but closed again. He tried once more and squinted at the brightness of the lighted room. Josie sat on her knees in front of him.

In a parched mumble, he said, “Josephine.”

Josie attempted a smile, relieved that he was not hurt, and placed her hands on the sides of his face, carefully avoiding the cut on his cheek. Ezra’s eyes closed again at her touch.

Christiana’s sarcasm broke the moment. “How touching.”

Ezra opened his eyes quickly and cut them toward the voice of his captor, his chin raised in defiance. Josie stood and turned toward the large man beside her, holding out a hand and requesting the keys to the handcuffs that bound her friend. The man looked at Christiana.

“Give them to me,” Josie said, her voice full of authority. The man immediately handed the keys to her. Josie said, “You can leave now.”

Christiana interjected, “I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

Josie turned to her with a defiant look in her eyes. “I’m safer with Ezra than I am with anyone. Including you. I don’t need a bodyguard here.”

Christiana stared at Josie for a long silent moment, challenging her on equal ground but knowing this battle would not be won, then she looked to the man and nodded toward the door. He left the room without hesitation. Christiana’s untrusting eyes settled on Ezra.

As Josie moved behind Ezra’s chair to remove the handcuffs, she asked Christiana, “Where are his guns?”

Christiana replied, “There’s only one. It’s downstairs.”

Josie studied her partner for a moment then glanced at Ezra, who met her with guarded eyes. Josie moved around the chair, leaving the handcuffs in place, and knelt again, raising the leg of Ezra’s trousers to reveal his ankle holster. The gun was still there. She looked at Christiana.

Christiana’s mouth opened slightly in surprise. Then her eyes narrowed at Ezra. Ezra divided his attention between her and the woman at his feet. Josie removed the pistol without regarding him.

Handing it to Christiana, she said, “They forgot one.” Christiana’s lip curled in disgust.

Returning to free Ezra from the handcuffs, Josie said, “I want to be alone until it’s time.”

Christiana’s jaw tensed as she remarked, “It’s not a good idea, Josie.” Josie turned to her but had no chance to respond before Christiana added, “I know you think you’re safe with him, but I’d rather not leave you alone. Not right now.”

Removing the handcuffs, Josie walked toward Christiana as Ezra slowly rose from the chair, his joints and muscles protesting with fury. He watched closely as Josie came toe to toe with the woman a full head taller than she. A small smile tugged the corners of his mouth.

“I deserve this much,” Josie said definitively, placing the cuffs in Christiana’s hand, “Give me this, Christi. One last time.”

Christiana looked over Josie’s head to Ezra. The two met with a bitter stare. Ezra’s eyes then traveled to Josie’s form and softened before looking to the floor. Christiana looked back down at Josie.

“It’s not a good idea,” she repeated.

Josie answered softly, “You have no reason to worry.” Then, in a pleading tone, she added, “Please. This is all I have.”

Christiana clenched her jaw but relented, nodding to Josie in compliance. Still, she leveled her gaze at Ezra and gruffly added, “I’ll be right outside.” Ezra stared back at her, expressionless.

Josie waited until Christiana left the room before turning back to face Ezra. He was leaning against the desk then, fighting to remain on his feet. Josie’s countenance fell as she realized how exhausted he was. “I asked them not to hurt you,” she said dejectedly, moving to his side and ushering him to the couch at the edge of the room. She helped him sit then walked into the tiny bathroom in the opposite corner. Returning with alcohol and a washcloth, Josie sat next to Ezra and began to clean the blood from his cheek, wincing along with him as the alcohol seeped into the cut. His attention was fixed on her face as she completed the task in silence. She avoided looking into his eyes.

When she returned to the bathroom to clean her hands, Ezra noticed her glance at him in the mirror, then quickly return her eyes to the sink. He continued to stare at her until she returned to the room.

Before she could begin something else to avoid the subject, Ezra said, “Must I ask, Josephine?”

Very slowly, Josie finally met his eyes, staring for a long frightened moment before replying. With a deep sigh, she settled herself on the end of the couch, facing forward so as not to look at him, then looked at her hands and began.

“When Angelo was murdered, Emilio took me into his family as if I’d been born a part of it. He was as much a father to me as anyone could be. And I loved him dearly.”

Ezra fixed his attention on Josie, trying to understand the emotions attached to her tale. He wanted desperately to understand.

She continued, “Emilio had no children of his own, so everything he had went to Angelo and Christiana. After Angelo, it came to me.” She suddenly looked at Ezra, feeling more confident. “The last thing anyone wanted was for the Covoran Empire to die with Emilio. So he taught us his business.”

Ezra interrupted, “Illegal business.”

Josie shook her head slightly. “Not all of it. The restaurants make a legitimate profit. They always have. The side business, the drug business, is separate. But when Emilio died, he gave each manager the option to become part of the distribution. Some of them did, and others chose not to.” She paused a second, collecting her thoughts and looking over Ezra’s shoulder as she remembered. “After Angelo died, Emilio began teaching Christiana and me everything we needed to know. His operation is well-oiled. It basically runs itself, but there has to be a final decision-maker. He wanted us to be that for him when he was no longer able. He trusted us that much. But he also knew that his associates wouldn’t take well to answering to two women. Young women, at that.”

Nodding in sudden enlightenment, Ezra supplied, “Thus, El Invisible.”

“Invisible!” Josie snorted, “People always have to put labels on things they don’t understand. We’re not invisible. We just don’t have to be hands-on in everything.”

Staring hard into Josie’s eyes, Ezra interjected, “But weapons, Josephine? Guns? That’s not you.”

Josie answered apologetically, “No, it’s not. It wasn’t Emilio either. I tried to fight it, but I had so little control. Emilio died more suddenly than any of us anticipated, and we still had so much to learn about his business. One of his closest advisors stepped in to help us keep control, to help us keep things running, but we learned pretty quickly that he had his own agenda. He’d been trying to get Emilio in the weapons arena for years, but Emilio had a secure empire without them, so he never committed. With Emilio gone, this man took control. A little at a time, but he took control.”

“Took control from you?” Ezra asked.

Josie shook her head. “Not actually. We came to an agreement with him. He had charge of the guns, and we maintained Emilio’s business the way it was before. We oversaw the restaurants and the drug shipments, and he kept our involvement a secret.”

Ezra’s brow furrowed slightly as he considered this. “Two entities within the same organization.” He smirked and added, “We weren’t looking for enough people.”

Josie nodded, “No one knows this. Emilio evoked enough loyalty that his partners wouldn’t question him, even in death. His empire continued to flourish without his presence, so it appeared he had set up a proper successor. His associates believe that Christiana is still involved only in the distribution of merchandise and that his advisor is still acting in the same capacity. I’m simply his daughter-in-law. And no one knows who’s actually calling the shots, but since their profits haven’t decreased, they don’t seem to care. It works for everyone.”

“Until you get caught,” Ezra stated. She looked into his determined green eyes and acknowledged his statement with a sad nod.

Taking a deep breath, Josie looked away and quietly said, “I’m leaving.” Ezra’s expression changed instantly. She glanced at him and elaborated, “If I get caught, no one will protect me. Christiana is part of the family, and the others have worked their way up in the organization. I’m still an outsider. Emilio warned me of this right from the beginning. I joined him anyway. But I knew I might have to leave one day, so he made arrangements. And today is that day.”

Ezra stared at her with a pained expression of confusion and anger. He didn’t know how to respond. Josie didn’t need to hear his words to know his thoughts.

“I have to leave, Ezra. I refuse to get caught. I’ve been prepared for this possibility a long time, and now I must leave.”

Ezra opened his mouth to respond but looked away instead, focusing on a painting hanging on the wall across the room. His jaw tensed as he fought his emotions.

Josie watched him a minute then placed a gentle hand to his temple and ran her fingers through his hair. Ezra’s eyes closed involuntarily.

Quietly, she said, “I love you. And I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you. But I can’t stay. Not now.” Ezra turned slightly toward her and allowed her to take his hand as she said, “I don’t really expect you to understand.”

His fingers intertwined with hers, Ezra replied, “Explain it to me. Help me to understand.”

Josie’s heart swelled in her chest, and she replied sadly, “My whole life no one has cared about me. Not since I was a child. No one but you. And when you left Atlanta to come here, I was alone again.”

Glancing up at her, Ezra contradicted, “I asked you to come with me.”

“I know,” she replied, “But it wasn’t best for you. You had so much to work through, and I would have been a distraction. You know that. We’ve discussed this. It wasn’t right for me to follow you here at first.” Ezra acknowledged that truth, looking at their hands again. She continued, “But when you were gone, I felt so alone. And when I met Angelo, I had a family again. And then, a business. And power. And authority. And luxury at my fingertips.” Wistfully, she said, “Ezra, things I’ve only dreamed of! And now I have them all.”

Ezra looked directly into her eyes and objected, “That makes such a life as this acceptable?”

Josie met his look and challenged, “Suddenly you’re moralistic? Please, Ezra.” His eyes left hers. Josie watched him for a moment, then asked, “Why do you call me Josephine?”

Ezra glanced up in surprise. “Pardon?”

She repeated, “Why do you call me Josephine?” Without waiting for his response, she answered, “Because you’ve always wanted me to be something I’m not. You took me in from the streets and cared about me like no one has. But you’ve never accepted who I am. Who I truly am.” She paused, meeting his bewildered eyes. “This is who I am, darlin’. This woman you see now.”

Snidely, Ezra remarked, “You can take the girl out of the street, but you cannot take the street out of the girl.” Anger flashed in Josie’s eyes, and she jerked her hand from his. Ezra studied her, looking beneath the surface as far as he could see. But when he met the wall that had been erected to keep people from getting too close, sadness enveloped him, and he was forced to look away.

After a moment of uncomfortable silence, Josie reached for his hands again. “I have to leave.” Hesitantly, she added, “I want you to come with me.” Ezra’s attention snapped back to her. She shrugged and said, “There’s no reason for you to stay here.”

Ezra quietly replied, “I have an assignment to complete. And responsibilities.”

A smile came to Josie’s face. “That was a good answer. Sounded good. But I know you better than that. You’d leave in a second if you wanted to.”

Ezra looked deeply into her gray eyes. “Yes, I would.”

“Then come with me,” she offered, “Just drop everything and come with me.”

Ezra turned away slightly for a moment then glanced back at his friend. The only thing of which he was aware at that moment was the warm smile of an old friend.

+ + + + + + +

Chase sat in the darkness of ICU 4 and watched Amelia’s body rise and fall as she struggled to breathe. She hadn’t been awake once since they had moved her from the ER. That worried him. He was so drawn into his own thoughts that he never heard Josiah Sanchez enter the room. Chase was startled when he sensed the presence of the large man and looked over to find him standing silently at the end of Amelia’s bed.

Josiah’s soothing voice pierced the darkness. “She looks peaceful.”

Chase glanced back at Amelia and whispered, “I hope so.”

Josiah waited a moment more then moved a chair near Chase and seated himself. He considered his words a long while before speaking. “I don’t know about you, but I’ve found the best thing to do in situations like this is offer up a prayer or two.”

Chase sighed and said, “I know all about prayer. It’s prayer that’s kept my family together since my dad died. Prayer kept my mom from going crazy as a single mom with two young kids. Prayer helped me raise a sister when Mom couldn’t be there because she had to work double shifts to make ends meet.” Chase glanced beside him at Josiah. “It’s prayer that saved my baby sister from killing herself on drugs and booze at fifteen.” Turning back to Amelia, he repeated quietly, “I know all about prayer.”

Josiah’s eyes traveled downward toward his hands. Nodding, he said, “Prayer’s a powerful thing.”

Chase nodded. “Yeah, it is. But it doesn’t come with guarantees, does it?”

Josiah shook his head slowly. “No, it doesn’t.” Pausing, he added, “But I’d rather cover my bases and hope my prayers were heard than find out later God was just waiting for me to ask Him. Wouldn’t you?”

Chase’s eyes fell on Amelia’s face. He nodded. In a raspy, tear-filled voice, he replied, “Yeah.”

Quietly, Josiah said, “I’ll say a few for her… and a few more for you.”

Chase replied, “Thanks. That’d be good.”

Looking from Chase to Amelia, the elder man remarked, “She’s lucky to have a friend who cares about her so much.” When Chase’s eyes glanced sideways at him, Josiah added, “I hope she knows that.”

Chase returned his attention to Amelia without responding, his eyes filling with tears once again, and the two men sat in silence until the nurse came for the next check on the patient.

+ + + + + + +

“Agent Larabee. There’s a phone call for you.”

Chris jerked himself from the state of dozing he had fallen into and stood quickly to follow the nurse. His head was pounding when he reached the phone.

“Larabee,” he said in a gruff tone.

“It’s me,” Vin said through the receiver, “How’s it going over there?”

Chris inhaled deeply and replied, “She’s not awake yet. They say she’ll be okay, but not for a while. What’d you find out?”

Vin answered, “Dead ends. Every address for Christiana Rivera or anyone connected to her comes up empty. It’s like she doesn’t really exist.”

Chris smirked at the irony. “Right. Well, keep looking. There’s gotta be something on her. She’s right here in this town. Somebody’s gotta know how to find her.”

Vin realized the frustration in Chris’s voice was increasing with every phone call. Attempting to bring some good news, he said, “They brought in Denny Ayala for questioning.”

Chris responded, “They won’t get anything from him. He’s not gonna talk.” With a sigh, he added, “The answers we want are lying here in ICU.”

Vin quietly replied, “Any idea when she’ll wake up?”

Chris answered, “No. Molly’s the kind of person who doesn’t like to face reality. Oblivion’s more comfortable for her than waking up to us. She could stay there for a long time.” With no response from Vin, Chris continued, “I’m gonna stay here a little longer, and if she doesn’t wake up, I’m coming to join you. If anything happens, you call me here.”

Vin agreed, “Will do,” then hung up.

Chris walked down the hall to Amelia’s room to find Buck sitting beside Chase and trying to get the younger man to take a much-needed break. Chris watched from the doorway as Buck finally succeeded and Chase approached the hall. Their eyes met briefly, allowing Chris to see the anguish in Chase’s eyes. Chris remembered that feeling. He remembered it all too vividly. He quickly glanced away and stepped out of Chase’s path. Buck joined Chris at the door as the young cop made his way to the elevators at the end of the hall.

“He needs some rest,” Buck said.

Chris replied, “We all do,” looking pointedly at his friend. Buck twitched his head slightly and turned back to the room. Chris’s eyes moved to the still form lying in the darkness, waiting a moment before he said, “They can’t find Rivera. But they did get Ayala.”

Buck looked at his partner. “Did he talk?”

Chris shook his head. “Not yet.”

Buck considered that a moment then asked, “Is Kepplen gone?”

Chris answered, “They’ve got him in a safehouse till this blows over.”

Buck grinned a little and said, “I’m glad we don’t do witness protection. Man, I’d go crazy just sitting around waiting for something to happen.”

Chris nodded but showed little expression. “I doubt he’s out of trouble. Too many people’ll want to find him. They’ll see some action.”

Buck’s eyebrows raised in contemplation, but his eyes quickly turned despondent. Both men returned their attention to Amelia, until Chris finally said, “I’m going back to the office. See if I can help them find something. Call me when she wakes up.” Buck nodded.

Chris moved toward Amelia’s bed slowly, standing above her while his eyes traveled over her face. She was almost unrecognizable. A twinge of anger in his heart surprised him, and he couldn’t decide if he was angry at what had happened to her or angry at her for allowing it to happen. He clenched his teeth at the feeling.

Taking a deep breath, Chris turned on his heel and left the room, not once looking back and thinking only of finding the people responsible for the condition of this agent under his charge.

+ + + + + + +

Just after midnight, Amelia’s eyes fluttered open. She stared at the ceiling for a long while, trying to determine her state of mind. She moved her eyes to the left and realized she was in a hospital. Moving her eyes to the right, she saw Buck slumped in a chair at the end of her bed. Beside him and closest to her was Chase, awake but staring into nothingness. She attempted to move her hand but found it heavy and numb. She opened her mouth and had to try several times before she found her voice.

“Chase?” she whispered. Chase’s head snapped toward her immediately. He stared at her, unsure if he was dreaming, then saw her move and came closer beside the bed. He took her hand but couldn’t speak for the emotion swelling within his throat. Tears filled his eyes.

“Chase,” she repeated.

He smiled, allowing the tears to fall on his cheeks, then squeezed her hand and smiled wider. Amelia’s eyes closed.

Buck woke at the sound of movement in the room then stood when he heard Amelia’s hushed voice. He watched her until she opened her eyes again, then almost laughed out loud when she turned to look at him. His excitement made him almost giddy, but the relief overwhelmed him. He couldn’t speak.

Amelia stared at Buck for the length of time he stood at her feet. Their eyes were locked on each other, and neither attempted to speak. But the weak smile on Amelia’s face told Chase all he needed to know. He was out of place here. Chase released Amelia’s hand, causing her to turn back to him. He forced a smile and stood.

“I’ll be outside if you need anything,” he said, sadness evident in his tone.

Amelia nodded slightly and returned her attention to Buck, but Buck watched Chase as he left the room. When he turned back to Amelia, she was smiling as best she could. He moved to sit beside her, holding her hand as he spoke.

“You scared the daylights outta me,” he began, “Don’t ever do it again.”

Amelia’s eyes closed involuntarily. “Okay,” she whispered, “I’ll try not to.”

Buck squeezed her hand lovingly, attempting to comfort her but feeling inadequate. His emotions threatened to spill over at any minute. Amelia squinted into the darkness, her eyes shifting back and forth quickly. Buck felt her body begin to tremble.

“What is it?” he asked, concern filling his voice.

Amelia's shivering increased. "Just don't." She pulled her hand from Buck's. Her eyes continued to glance nervously around the room, frightening Buck.

Not knowing what to do, Buck moved a little closer to Amelia, but she suddenly jerked her body to the opposite side of the bed, avoiding his touch. Her eyes were wild. Buck stood up, fear settling upon him, and stared with wide eyes at the woman before him.

"Get away!" Amelia yelled suddenly.

Buck stepped back immediately as Amelia struggled to sit up. She finally reached for the IV in her arm and tugged at the line. Buck quickly came to his senses and stretched across the bed to stop her, but Chase was there before he reached her hands.

Chase grabbed Amelia’s hands and pulled them away, steeling himself against her sudden shriek of anger. The scream startled Buck, and he jumped away. Chase struggled with Amelia for several seconds until he finally pinned her arms to the bed. The nurse entered to another of Amelia’s maniacal screams. With Chase’s help, she was able to control her patient until another sedative could be given. As the drug took effect, Amelia curled into a fetal position and pulled her arms over her ears. Buck stood at the edge of the room, open-mouthed and staring.

Chase eventually glanced toward Buck. When the elder man sensed the attention, he allowed his eyes to meet the young man’s. Chase’s silent stare was undisturbed, no shock at all in his countenance. Buck suddenly felt out of place. With one more glance at Amelia, he turned and walked from the room.

+ + + + + + +

“The plane’s ready.”

Josie nodded to Christiana where she stood in the doorway then turned toward Ezra. The wait had been excruciating as the night wore on, and their conversation had stalled after the initial discussion. Josie’s plans were set. It was Ezra’s choice now. He had been turning over their conversation for hours, and now he had run out of time.

Meeting Josie’s stare, Ezra looked into her eyes one last time. She smiled despite the circumstances, and he could not resist. His smile reached his eyes. Ezra’s friendship with Josie had sustained them both through a great number of disappointments, and even now it was the most important thing in their lives. She was his friend, above all else.

“It’s time, Ezra,” she said, “I have to go.”

Ezra nodded and moved to join her at the door. They left the upstairs office hand in hand.

+ + + + + + +

Amelia woke again in the early morning hours, immediately glancing to her right for Buck. Instead, she found Chase with his head lain on the side of her bed. She stared at him a moment, then raised her hand and placed it gently upon his head. He sat up immediately. His eyes settled on her, judging her state of mind and smiling when he realized she was lucid. She returned the smile with as much strength as she could muster.

“What are you doin’ here?” she asked.

Chase smiled sheepishly. “I didn’t want you to wake up alone.”

“Yeah?”

He nodded. “Yeah. You shouldn’t be alone.”

She looked into the caring eyes of this young man at her side and saw immediately the intense devotion she had been overlooking. A wave of tenderness filled her spirit, and she moved her hand to touch his face.

Her voice barely audible, she whispered, “Thank you.”

Chase took her hand cautiously, gauging her reaction by the look in her eyes, then squeezed it tenderly when she remained calm.

Amelia studied him for a few moments, thankful that she wasn’t alone. But she wondered why it was Chase at her side, a man she hardly knew, and not Chris or even Buck. When her emotions threatened to overwhelm her, Chase sensed her anguish and squeezed her hand again.

“You’re still pretty out of it,” he said, “Why don’t you rest some more?”

Closing her eyes, Amelia nodded slightly. Chase released her hand, but she quickly clasped hers onto his again. Looking at him with a frightened expression, she said, “Don’t leave.”

Chase placed his free hand on her head and stroked her hair gently. “I won’t,” he replied, “Sleep. I’m not going anywhere.”

Amelia nodded and closed her eyes again. Chase continued to stroke her hair until she drifted off to sleep a few moments later. And then he stayed in his chair beside the bed throughout the remainder of the night.

+ + + + + + +

At three a.m., the office of Chris Larabee’s team was buzzing with activity. Vin and Nathan had been there since the evening tracking all of Christiana Rivera’s moves for the past five years, leading them into more dead ends than they had ever encountered. But they continued. They could find little connection between Josie and Rivera, despite their best efforts, but Vin refused to believe Josie wasn’t involved. The questions and her unusual behaviors were too great to overlook. He and Nathan continued to search for links.

Buck had arrived shortly after one, visibly disconcerted but in desperate need of something to take his mind off Amelia. Soon after his arrival, word had come from Denver PD that Amelia had indeed been taken by Denny Ayala’s goons and pumped full of heroin until she lost consciousness and could no longer respond. She had been dumped under the viaduct and left for dead. When her kidnappers were questioned, they were very surprised to learn that she was still alive; they confessed immediately. The initial lead had come from Willa, Denny’s girlfriend and Edward Kepplen’s daughter. Willa’s genuine concern for Amelia had given her a sudden burst of conscience, as did her overwhelming fear when she couldn’t get in touch with her mother. She gave up her boyfriend in an attempt to save her own life.

The information did little to relieve Buck. Now he knew what Amelia had been dealing with, but he felt helpless to aid her recovery. And he seemed out of place next to Chase Donovan. He sensed that the younger cop could do more for Amelia at this particular time than Buck could ever do. He figured it would be best to give him room to do it.

Chris’s cell phone rang at 3:15.

“Larabee.” A pause. “Where are you, Ezra?” All ears perked up, and Vin moved to the door of Chris’s office to hear every word.

On the other end of the phone, Ezra said, “There will be a shipment delivered in one hour to Warehouse 76 on the north end of town. This will be your only opportunity, Mister Larabee. The man you seek is Reed Alexander, forty years old, dark hair, dark eyes, medium complexion, large build. Six foot three is a good estimate. He is your man, Mister Larabee. He is responsible for the trafficking of weapons into this fair city of yours. If you do not apprehend him tonight, you shall never have another opportunity.”

Chris was hastily taking notes and did not realize Ezra had finished speaking. When he did, he urgently called, “Ezra?”

“Go to the warehouse, Mister Larabee.”

“Ezra, where are you?” A click. Silence. “Ezra! Standish!!”

Vin’s eyes dropped to the floor and he moved away. Buck, standing behind him, asked Chris, “Josie?”

Chris shook his head, gritting his teeth in anger. He stared at Buck for several seconds, trying to regain composure, but the pressure behind his eyes made it unbearable. Finally, he shut his phone off, grabbed a notepad from his desk and stormed into the outer office.

“There’s a shipment going down in one hour. Let’s go!”

Five agents jumped to attention and followed Chris out of the door.

+ + + + + + +

Ezra stared at the cell phone in his hand. His head hurt, and he was tired. But he had to keep going. He looked at Josie standing several feet away with Christiana and determined to continue. Tossing the phone into a nearby trash receptacle, he moved toward the women.

Josie tried to smile through unshed tears. “I’ll miss you, Christi,” she said, taking the hands of her friend and sister-in-law. “I wish it could be different.”

Christiana bit her lower lip and nodded. Putting her arms around Josie, she hugged her close and said into her ear, “You deserve better than this. So much more.”

Josie hugged her friend tighter. “We both do. But, it’s done. We move on.”

Christiana nodded again, gave Josie one last squeeze then pulled away and smiled down at her. “I love you.”

Josie smiled. “I love you, too. Take care of yourself.”

Christiana replied with a sigh, “You too.”

The two friends continued to look into each other’s eyes until Ezra placed a gentle hand on Josie’s shoulder.

“We should go, Josephine.”

Josie glanced back slightly then once more at Christiana. The older woman smiled reassuringly and released her. As Josie turned away, Christiana met Ezra’s eyes.

“Take care of her,” she said.

Ezra looked deep into her eyes and replied, “I always have.” He turned and followed Josie into the waiting plane.

Seated in the cockpit, Josie looked at Ezra in the pilot’s seat next to her. “You sure you remember how to fly this?”

Ezra studied the controls. “It’s much like riding a bicycle, is it not? One never truly forgets.” He hoped his reply sounded more confident than he felt.

Josie accepted it. She looked forward out of the window, noticing the clear night skies for the first time. As Ezra started the engines and easily navigated the airstrip, taking them into flight, she glanced over several times and smiled. Her heart was full of mixed emotions, but she was thankful for the man beside her.

Once they were in the sky, Ezra spoke. “So,” he began, smiling sideways at Josie, “tell me about Angelo, darlin’. He must have been quite special.”

Josie beamed. “He was, Ezra. He really was. You would’ve liked him. He was a lot like you.”

Ezra smiled. “Well, then. I must know all there is to know.”

Josie began her story as Ezra took them high into the night sky. And somewhere behind them, in a mile-high city in Colorado, a six-member team of the ATF finally got their man.

Epilogue

The warm soothing breezes from the bay tickled Josie's skin as she relaxed in an oversized hammock on the terrace of her new island villa. Dropping her book against her chest, she closed her eyes and breathed deeply the salty air, filling her lungs and holding the breath as long as she dared. When she opened her eyes, her gaze rested on Ezra, stretched beside her from the opposite end of the hammock. Though he also held a book in his hands, his mind was far away. She watched him for several minutes, noticing how little he was moving, save the occasional blink of his eyes. She had seen this mood before.

"You're taking me back, aren't you?" she asked quietly.

Ezra slowly turned to her, his apologetic eyes meeting hers. Each stared deeply into the other's heart, sensing the future without needing to discuss it.

"Yes," he replied.

Josie waited a few moments, not willing to break the trance that held them, then asked, "Why'd you allow me to leave?"

Ezra's eyes drifted from hers, a melancholy smile crossing his lips. He sighed deeply and looked back to her, his eyes flickering with sadness. "Could I have altered your decision?"

Josie hesitated a moment, then allowed a crooked smile. "No," she answered. "Not in a million years."

Ezra tipped his head toward her with a grin, bringing a tiny laugh from his companion. After a moment, the two stared at each other once again, allowing the silence to surround them. Josie's countenance fell slightly as she considered the situation. In a comforting manner, Ezra placed his hand upon her leg stretched beside him. Josie's eyes followed his movement then returned to his face.

"What if I won't go?" she asked him. "If I say no?"

Ezra waited a beat then replied, "You'll go."

The corners of Josie's mouth drooped slightly, and she leaned back into the hammock and closed her eyes. Ezra's hand absently stroked her leg as he spoke.

"Are you interested in the true reason I prefer the etymon of your name?" he asked. Josie opened her eyes just a bit but gave him her full attention. "It is not what you believe. I have no desire to change the person you have become. I simply wish for you to be the woman you are destined to be." Josie raised her head slightly as he spoke. "Even from the beginning, from the moment I first beheld you, I was certain you would change my life. I saw in you, while you were yet a child, a true lady. A woman who would capture the hearts of those she met and evoke in them a passion to which they were yet unfamiliar. Josephine seemed the fitting moniker." Leaning forward, he touched the tips of his fingers to hers, and added, "You have not fully become that woman, but I see more of her with each passing day."

Josie's heart swelled as she listened to Ezra. He had always examined her more deeply than she was willing to delve, but she trusted him completely and knew he was right. Her eyes traveled to their hands, fingers barely touching, and she drew a deep breath. Ezra reached to place his other hand behind her neck and pulled her closer to him, kissing her softly upon the cheek. She felt the warmth of his breath near her ear and turned to rest her cheek against his.

She quietly said, "It's hard to love you sometimes, but I do. So much."

She felt his smile as he drew back to look into her eyes, his forehead pressing to hers. "Not many will, so you must know how important you are to me."

Josie nodded. "I know. And you to me." She sighed. "We're quite a pair."

Ezra's smile broadened. "Rather unlikely, I'd say."

Josie smiled with him. "Most unlikely."

They chuckled together, drawing away and relaxing once again into the comfort of the hammock, their minds far from where they had been just minutes earlier.

+ + + + + + +

Chris entered the hospital room on the fifth floor of Denver General Hospital and found Amelia staring lazily out of the window at the sunny afternoon sky. He reached her bed before she realized he was there. When she turned, her face brightened immediately, bringing a little light into her sunken features.

"Hey stranger," she said in a quiet voice.

Chris smiled and replied, "I've been here. You just never knew it."

Amelia groaned, "Oh, you must've come when I was in my delirious state. What a pleasant person to visit."

Chris sat on the edge of her bed and teased, "I've seen you a lot worse."

Amelia smiled sheepishly. "Yes, that's true. Unfortunately."

Glancing toward the empty chair in the room, Chris asked, "So where's your bodyguard today?"

Amelia attempted a glaring look, answering, "I assume you mean Chase. He's downstairs talking with his mom. Did you know she's a maternity nurse?"

Chris nodded. "I heard something about it. You know he's been here since you were brought in? Never left your side."

She inhaled slowly. "Yeah, I heard. Josiah was here earlier and kinda filled me in." Glancing toward the chair that Chase had previously occupied, she questioned, "I can't imagine why he'd want to stick around for this."

Chris's expression grew more serious but he shrugged and replied, "I don't know why he stayed here this whole time, but something's got him. You're under his skin, that's for sure."

Amelia met his eyes with questions in her own. "You think so?"

Chris simply nodded. After a couple of minutes of silence, he touched her cold, weak hand and asked, "How're you feeling?"

Amelia's eyes rested on his hand. "Well, between the nightmares and being on suicide watch, I'd say things were just rosy." She looked up at Chris and saw the worry he had been trying to mask. "But I'll be fine. I always am, right?"

Chris considered this a moment then replied, "Not always." When Amelia lowered her eyes, he asked, "What happens now?"

She answered bitterly, "You haven't heard? I'm on suspension, pending further evaluation and drug counseling. I'm definitely out of the agency. Wouldn't look right for me to be part of DEA now, would it? Whether I get to stay on the force at all is still up for debate."

Chris nodded. "I knew about that. But what I wanna know is what you're planning to do."

She looked into his eyes for several seconds. "I guess I'm doing what they tell me."

"You still wanna be a cop?" he asked.

Her eyes betrayed her apprehension. Looking away, she replied, "It's all I know, Chris."

He countered, "It's all you've done. It's not all you know." He saw her shoulders sag a bit at his statement, but she did not reply.

A moment later, Amelia turned back to Chris and suddenly asked, "How's Buck?"

Chris's eyes drifted from hers for a split-second before he answered, "He'll make it. He thought you might need some space. I don't think he feels comfortable with this right now."

She muttered, "He wasn't comfortable with things before." Realizing what she had said, she looked up suddenly and found a tiny smile on Chris's lips. Grinning shyly, she remarked, "You knew about us the whole time, didn't you?"

Chris shrugged. "I figured something was going on. Buck's pretty transparent when it comes to women, so when he started hiding it, I started paying attention. I never knew for sure until you disappeared. It was pretty obvious by then. I don't know why you didn't tell me. It doesn't matter."

She responded, "Tell it to your friend. He seemed to think it did."

Chris nodded pensively. "He's loyal. But he's wanted you since the first day he saw you. I knew it all along." He grinned widely and said, "I think that's part of the reason I stayed with you so long, even when we knew it wasn't working. I didn't want him to have the chance when I couldn't get it right." He shrugged. "That's probably why he didn't feel comfortable now. He probably wasn't sure how I'd react."

Amelia nodded wearily, yawning inadvertently. "Yeah, that's probably it."

Taking his cue, Chris stood to leave, saying he'd return when she was less tired. When he leaned down and kissed her forehead, Amelia's arms tingled at his touch.

As he stood again, she said, "I'm sorry I screwed it all up for you."

He shook his head. "You didn't hurt me all that much."

She nodded sadly. "I guess not. Still, I blew my cover and hurt the case."

He replied, "Your cover was blown before you even joined my team. Denny Ayala knew you from Atlanta. You didn't have a chance."

Amelia's shoulders dropped melodramatically, and she shook her head in disgust.

Chris consoled her with, "We did get something, though. Edward Kepplen brought us names and dates. It's enough to break up some of the lower levels. Maybe enough to hurt 'em for a while."

Amelia was pleased. "So it wasn't a total loss."

Chris shook his head. "Not at all."

She questioned, "And he'll testify against his partners?"

Chris's expression took on shreds of discomfort. "Well, he said all the right things, but the agents protecting him let him get away."

Amelia's mouth dropped open slightly. "You're kidding."

Chris shook his head. "Nope. He's gone. Left sometime during the night. All we know is that his boat's been moved and he's gone, and his mistress and daughter are gone, too."

"Willa left?" she responded.

Chris nodded. "All of 'em." A tiny smile tugged the corners of his mouth. "Buck called it. He knew Kepplen would take off. And he was right."

Amelia shook her head in amazement. "So how does that affect your case?"

Chris shrugged. "Not my case really. All Kepplen had were drug shipments. He didn't have anything more than recorded transactions for the weapons exchange. But he knew dates and contacts for future deals. DEA lost their man. He didn't help us a great deal other than confirming what we'd suspected all along. Kepplen just cemented for us that all of this activity is a Covoran operation."

Amelia shook her head again. It was almost funny, though she couldn't laugh. She thought about these new developments for a moment then looked up at Chris suddenly.

"How's Ezra?"

Chris's back bristled visibly at the sound of his name. "Ezra's gone."

Her brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean 'gone'?"

"I mean," he replied, "he's gone. He left. It looks like he was covering for his friend Josie the whole time, and when we found out she was involved, he left with her. We tracked them to California, but they're somewhere in the middle of the Pacific Ocean by now. We haven't found them."

Amelia's eyes widened in surprise. "Josie? Josephine?" Frustration colored her countenance. "I saw him meet her. One morning in some park in the suburbs. I trailed him."

Agitated, Chris said, "Why didn't you tell me that?"

"Because," she replied, "he said it was personal. It didn't seem to matter to this case."

Chris responded, "Well, it did matter. She turned out to be one of the people we were looking for. Very much a part of the organization."

Amelia stared at Chris. She couldn't believe it. "So he just left?"

Chris nodded. "Left. Took Josie and left."

Amelia's eyes left Chris and slowly traveled to her hands, but she saw nothing before her. After a moment, Chris touched her arm gently and said he was leaving. Though she acknowledged his departure, she barely heard him go. Instead, her mind filled with every questionable behavior she had seen Ezra exhibit.

+ + + + + + +

Faint shards of moonlight pierced the darkness of the villa as Josie sat on the end of the bed gazing at the bright stars through the open doors and willing the night to never end. She made no sound, but Ezra awoke anyway. He watched her with downcast eyes for several minutes from where he lay in the bed. When she sensed his attention, she immediately looked over her shoulder and met his eyes.

There was nothing to say. Nothing that would change the next day's events. Neither intended to discuss it further, yet there was so much left unsaid between them. Josie feared their friendship would never be the same. A knot formed in her stomach, and she knew the tears would follow. She turned and crawled to the head of the bed, moving beneath the sheets where Ezra had pulled them back for her and nestling her body against his for comfort. When his arms encircled her, she began to cry. The weeping was silent at first, but with each sob came fear, and soon the tears were accompanied by convulsions that began in her heart and wracked her entire body. Ezra pulled her as close as he could and tightened his embrace. He said nothing, but his own silent tears intermingled with hers as the moonlight lowered in the room and took them into morning.

+ + + + + + +

One week and one day after Ezra had taken Josie from Colorado to a remote island in the South Pacific the two stepped into an elevator of the federal building in downtown Denver. Chris was waiting for them when they entered the offices of his ATF team. Ezra held Josie's hand, her grip tightening when they stepped into the offices and she noticed Vin at his desk. She looked at the floor and continued to walk. Ezra glanced at Josie in time to see her look toward Vin, then glanced toward his fellow agent. Vin's stare was piercing. Ezra looked away.

Chris shut the door behind them when they entered his office but didn't say much for several minutes. Josie looked out of the window separating Chris's office from the rest of his team and found Vin watching her. Their eyes met for a minute then she saw his expression fill with disgust as he turned away. Rising from his chair, he moved out of sight. She dropped her head and forced back the anguish rising in her throat. Ezra squeezed her hand.

The three met in Chris's office for only twenty minutes. When Ezra called on the way to the building, Chris had only enough time before their arrival to notify the state's attorney office that he would be delivering Josie. Chris knew Ezra well enough to know he wouldn't cooperate if things were not done his way. Ezra laid out the deal for Chris, making sure he understood that Josie was giving herself up but no one else. She would serve time for her own crimes, which basically amounted only to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. There was no evidence to say otherwise. She would not be incriminating anyone other than herself. Especially not Christiana Rivera. They would have to find the evidence on their own if they wanted to put her away as well. It was all they had, and Chris knew they had to take it. He would leave the rest up to DEA.

As Chris led them from the office to escort them to the meeting with the state's attorney, Josie refused to look at the other men in the room, but she knew they were watching her.

"I can feel their hatred," she whispered sadly to Ezra.

Ezra glanced at the five men in the room, each one staring at the two of them with different degrees of bitterness and confusion. He stepped behind Josie and moved to stand between her and his team members. His arm tightened around her shoulders in an attempt to make this easier for her, but his own heart was heavy.

Vin Tanner was the only person in the room not looking at the small group exiting the office. His eyes were fixed on the sun setting over the mountains far in the distance.

+ + + + + + +

The morning sun crept into Amelia's room one last time as she gathered the last of her belongings and handed a bag to Chase. They sat on the edge of the hospital bed to await the wheelchair that would officially release her from her stay. Nervously, she raised one hand and began to twirl a section of her hair around her fingers. Chase placed his hand over hers and returned it to her side.

"You're gonna be fine, love," he assured, squeezing her hand gently, "Don't worry."

She smiled at him uncertainly and nodded. "I know." Her voice rang false.

Hearing the approaching wheelchair, they stood as Buck entered, pushing the chair with a wide smile on his face.

"Did someone call for a ride?" he asked with a twinkle in his eye.

Amelia smiled broadly and laughed. "I guess that would be me."

"Well hop in," he replied with a sweeping gesture of his arm, "I'd say it's high time you got outta this place."

Amelia replied, "You bet it is." Just as she began to sit in the chair, she noticed someone else standing in the doorway.

"Ezra," she mumbled, causing Chase to turn toward the door as well.

"What are you doing here?" Chase asked angrily, taking a step toward the doorway.

Buck placed a hand on Chase's chest and said, "Let it go, son."

Chase met Buck's eyes and said, "He shouldn't be here," then turned toward Ezra and said, "You're the reason this happened. If you'd been doing your job, instead of protecting your own…"

"Chase!" Amelia's voice was louder than it should have been but she made no apologies. When Chase looked toward her, she gave him an even stare and said through clenched teeth, "I can handle this."

Chase and Amelia stared at each other for several seconds, making the rest of the room's occupants more than a little uncomfortable, until Chase finally backed down.

Amelia calmly said, "I want to talk with Ezra," leaving no room for debate on the subject.

Buck stated, "We'll wait outside," and pushed Chase toward the door. Ezra stepped into the room before the two exited, but he couldn't miss the flames that Chase's eyes shot in his direction. He lowered his eyes and waited until they were in the hall before approaching Amelia.

She sat on the edge of the bed and asked, "How are you?"

Sitting beside her, Ezra attempted a grin and said, "I should be asking that of you, my dear."

Amelia shrugged. "They say I'm fine. But I have a feeling I won't be back to normal for a long time. Then again, I'm not sure what normal is."

Ezra nodded and took her hand in his. "It has been quite an ordeal, hasn't it?"

She looked up at him, studying his profile for a moment, then asked, "How is your Josephine?"

Ezra's eyes filled with sadness but he presented a stoic expression and answered, "She shall endure."

Amelia replied, "Chris called me last night and told me you brought her back. Five years is pretty lenient a prison term."

Ezra continued to be impassive. "Perhaps. But it is also an eternity. And she did give us what we sought."

"Not all of it," she replied. Ezra's eyes turned glassy as he stared at the floor. Amelia studied him a minute then asked, "Why'd you come back? You could've stayed gone, and no one would have ever found you."

He lowered his head. "It was simply a matter of time until we were discovered. Contrary to popular opinion, I do have faith in our justice system."

A smile crossed Amelia's lips. "I don't believe for one second that's the reason." Placing a hand above his ear, she ran her fingers through his hair and said, "I'm sorry you have to go through this now." With a sigh, she quietly added, "I'm sorry for a lot of things."

Ezra tilted his head and drew away, standing suddenly and avoiding her eyes. "We'll be fine. You should take care of yourself." He tipped his head toward her and moved to the door, abruptly ending their conversation.

Emptiness filling every crevice of her fragile heart, Amelia could only watch him leave.

When Ezra exited the room, Buck started back to the door, but as Ezra passed Chase, he heard the younger officer hiss, "This wouldn't have happened if you'd been there for her." Buck turned around to see Ezra glance over at Chase with saddened eyes but say nothing in response. Instead of walking away, Chase stepped toward Ezra and punched him square in the jaw, knocking him backward several steps. In one large step, Buck came to stand between Chase and Ezra.

"That's enough!" he reprimanded, towering over Chase and looking toward Ezra to be sure he was okay.

Touching his jaw, Ezra stared directly at the young officer for several seconds with no expression on his face. Then he turned and walked to the end of the hall and pressed the elevator call button. Buck looked back down at Chase.

"Go get Amelia," he commanded. Chase didn't argue.

Buck watched Ezra as he waited at the end of the hall. The man was distressed in a way Buck had not seen, and he wondered how long it would take Ezra to recover from this latest disappointment. With a sigh, Buck turned and proceeded back to Amelia's room.

+ + + + + + +

It had been a week since Josie and Ezra returned to Denver, and Josie was still trying to adjust to life in prison. The routine wasn’t an issue, of course, and the living conditions were even bearable considering her time spent in far worse places, but the lack of freedom was horrific. She felt claustrophobic most of the time and had even succumbed to a few panic attacks in the week since she’d arrived. Listening to her stories, Ezra found himself wondering if this had been the right decision after all. She was miserable, and he hated to see her that way. He had promised her from the moment they met that he would do everything in his power to give her a good life, and now he knew he’d failed her.

Josie touched his hand as they sat together in the visiting area. “It’s not your fault,” she said, looking up at him.

He nodded sadly and clasped her hand. “Perhaps not solely, but I am partially to blame. And I would welcome the opportunity to relive these past few years, if it were offered to me.”

Josie looked into her friend’s sad green eyes. “I love you for all you’ve done. And I knew what would happen when I returned, so you can not blame yourself. I didn’t have to come back.”

Ezra nodded but directed his eyes to the tabletop between them. They sat in silence for a while, enjoying the companionship but not knowing what else to say. She had only been there a few days, and there was little to catch up on. Very soon, their time ended. Ezra took her hands in his one last time. Drawing a deep breath for strength, he avoided her eyes as he said, “Mary would like to see you.”

Josie averted her gaze, her jaw tensing visibly. She waited a moment then shook her head. “No.”

“She's family, Josephine. You really should...”

“I said no, Ezra.”

Ezra pressed her no further. Pulling her hands toward him across the surface of the table, he looked directly into her eyes and waited until she met his gaze.

“We will survive this, Josephine. I promise this to you. And I intend to keep this vow.”

Josie attempted a smile, her heart warming at the friendship they shared. He leaned toward
her and placed a sweet kiss on her forehead before rising and walking to the door. When the guard opened the door, Ezra met Vin on the other side.

Ezra’s surprise could not be contained, but Vin only looked at him a second before averting his eyes and moving past him into the visitor’s room. Ezra looked back at Josie but was met with the door closing in his face.

Josie’s face lost all color when Vin sat opposite her and her brain lost all ability to think. She sat motionless before the man she had hurt so deeply.

“I don’t have much to say to you,” Vin began, his tone more cold than Josie anticipated, “but I have to know something.” Josie could only nod her head. “I don’t understand why.”

As Vin waited for her to respond, he quickly realized that he wouldn’t understand her reasoning even if she tried to explain. Instead of allowing her to answer, he spoke again.

“You know what, I don’t think there’s anything you can say to me that’ll make this right. I don’t know if I’d believe you anyway. I should just go.”

As Vin rose from his seat, Josie called his name. “I never meant to hurt you.” Vin responded only by staring down at her from where he stood. “I really didn’t mean to hurt you. Everything that happened between us was honest. You’re the only person I was truly myself with.”

Vin studied her earnest expression for several seconds before replying, “I met this woman once that I really liked. An’ I had a good time, and I thought that maybe this was someone I could spend a lotta time with an’ get to know pretty well. But now I see this other side to her that I can’t make sense of. I don’t think you can be two totally different people and still be true to yourself. But maybe I’m wrong.” Pausing, he sighed and added, “Maybe in about five years I’ll be ready to figure it out.”

Seeing Josie’s eyes fill with tears, he turned to leave. “Take care of yourself, Josie.”

She began to cry as she watched him walk away, leaving her alone in the room with the other inmates and their visitors.

+ + + + + + +

The saloon was especially boisterous at the end of this particular work day, a new karaoke machine being the reason for most of the activity. Chris sat in quiet amusement as he watched Buck and JD argue over which selection they would next try to perform. For his part, he hoped they'd never figure it out. He glanced toward the door when it opened and was surprised to see Amelia enter the bar. Chase was at her side. He motioned them over with a slight wave of his hand, noticing how much better she looked than the week before. As Amelia sat beside Chris, Chase asked if he could get her a drink.

"Um..." she began timidly, then wrinkling her nose, she said, "better make it water." Chase smiled and moved toward the bar. Amelia looked at Chris.

"I'm trying to be good," she remarked with a shrug.

Chris grinned. "Somebody should be."

They chuckled together a minute, and Amelia surveyed the room. Her eyes fell on Buck, who had finally convinced JD it was his turn at the microphone. He met Amelia's look and smiled widely as he began to sing: "Well, excuse me, but I think you've got my chair..." Chris looked back at Amelia and chuckled at her reddening face. She shook her head and looked away from Buck, hoping he would not continue. She should have known better.

As Buck worked his way through George Strait's song, he also worked his way through the patrons in the bar, eventually kneeling beside Amelia and singing directly to her. She covered her face and refused to look. When finally the song ended, and a rousing applause was given for Buck, she finally met the face of her admirer. He was so pleased with his own cleverness that Amelia had to laugh despite her embarrassment. Chris quickly escaped, and she motioned for Buck to sit beside her, bringing another round of applause from his audience.

"You're absolutely out of your mind," she said with a laugh, "You know that, don't you?" Buck beamed with a wide smile that ran from ear to ear. And then he laughed with her.

"You look pretty good," he said, "for a woman who almost died."

Amelia's face registered momentary shock. "Thanks," she said sarcastically.

Buck just shrugged it off. "So," he began, "what happens next?"

She studied him a minute before answering, "Well, they say I should take it one day at a time. So I am." Waiting a beat, she added, "I don't think I'll be ready to come back for a while."

"No?" Buck asked.

She shook her head. "No. It's a little too much for me right now." Taking a deep breath, she commented, "I think I'd better take it easy for a little while. Figure out what I should do next."

Buck's expression was compassionate as he said, "You don't have to come back, ya know." Rushing to explain, he added, "I mean, I want you to come back, but you don't have to. You've earned the right to do what's best for you. Remember that."

Amelia smiled, placing a tender hand on his cheek. "You're so good for me."

Buck grinned and shrugged off her comment. "Yeah, but it looks like I'm not the only one." Looking in the direction of the bar, he remarked in his best Ezra impersonation, "Still have your personal valet, I see."

Amelia followed his attention to Chase, who was watching them until they looked his direction. He quickly turned back to the bar and tried to look busy.

"He's decided I need 24-hour care," she explained. When Buck looked back at her, she said, "He's sleeping on my couch." Focusing again on Chase, her eyes softened a little as she added, "It's not a big deal, really. We've found we have a lot in common."

"Really…" Buck remarked.

"Yeah," she replied, her eyes sparking and a cheerful lilt in her voice, "He's a good guy. And," she looked into Buck's eyes, "he cares about me. A lot. No one's ever cared for me like this."

Buck resisted the urge to look away, but he felt the sting of her words. Still, he knew they were true. Smiling, he took her hand in his.

"I'm glad," he said chivalrously, "That's what you need."

Amelia smiled, grateful for Buck's friendship and understanding. He winked at her, then leaned close and kissed her for a long, tender moment. The bright twinkle returned to Buck's eyes when they parted. Strains of JD's voice began to fill the room.

Glancing over his shoulder, Buck said, "I think it's time I saved these people from JD." He was laughing as he stood.

Chase joined them as Buck was standing. The elder man extended his hand to the younger one, saying "Good luck. You've got your hands full." Amelia rolled her eyes but laughed with Buck anyway.

When they were alone again, Chase's eyes rested on Buck. Amelia placed a hand over his and said, "He's been a good friend to me when no one else was. We just needed each other for a while. That's all." Studying Chase for a second, she smiled and added, "But... things are different now."

Chase's blue eyes twinkled, and he smiled slightly and nodded. "Okay" was all he said.

At the bar, Vin was finishing off his third shot of whiskey since he'd arrived. He wasn't sure how many beers had been served in between. And when Ezra suddenly appeared at his side, he immediately asked for one more of each.

"Don't feel like talkin' tonight, Ezra," he muttered, nodding to Inez as he took the next beer.

Ezra accepted the bottle of whiskey from Inez and replied, "Then you are fortunate, Mister Tanner, since my only intention on this melancholy eve is to imbibe in solitude."

Vin glanced sideways at Ezra, studying him a moment, then acknowledged his statement with a nod and returned to his beer. Ezra poured himself a shot and turned to survey the room. His face wrinkled in distaste at the karaoke performances of Buck and JD as his eyes traveled across the tables in the room. He stopped when his gaze met Amelia's.

They regarded one another with uncertainty for several seconds until finally Ezra lifted his glass to her and tipped his head in greeting. Amelia forced an uncomfortable smile. Ezra waited only a moment then lowered his eyes and turned back to the bar. He threw back the whiskey and served himself another.

Amelia's eyes remained on Ezra even after he turned his back. Then she glanced at Chase beside her. He was watching her throughout the exchange.

With a sigh, Amelia said, "I don't think I'm ready for this yet. Would you take me home?"

"Sure," Chase replied, standing and pulling her chair out for her. Amelia took his hand as they exited the Saloon.

Chris looked around the room at his team of agents. He knew Vin and Ezra would be no good to him tomorrow, and he was grateful for a slow day to catch up on paperwork. Buck and JD were still attempting to entertain the crowd, and Chris wasn't sure if it was working, but they persevered nonetheless. He smiled when he saw Nathan and Rain leave early. At least someone was having a pleasant night.

Chris looked at Josiah, sitting on his left. "What do you think, Josiah?" he asked, "You satisfied with the way this turned out?"

Josiah glanced around the room as he took another drink of his beer. Allowing his eyes to settle on Vin and Ezra, he replied, "Well, can't say I'm happy with all of it, but I'd say we did a fine day's work."

Chris allowed a half-grin. "Yeah, I guess we did. A fine day's work." And he took another gulp of his coffee as Buck's voice growled in the background.

The End