Disclaimer: All the characters from the "Magnificent Seven" TV series are property of Trilogy Entertainment, The Mirisch Group, MGM Worldwide.
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They say these often begin across a crowded room and in the aftermath of what had taken place, Chris Larabee decided he was not going to be so quick to make judgements on the validity of cliches. After what transpired later, Chris could not deny the entire situation really did have its beginnings in a crowded room.
Chris Larabee looked across the crowded room of the saloon that Team 7 often frequented when they were finally off duty after a hard day's work at the office. Even though the week was only just beginning, the ATF bureau had received enough leads to keep all the teams busy, running down the sources and authenticating information. He himself had spent much of the day locked in his office, talking to informants and assessing what was useful data that could lead to an arrest.
He knew that much of the reason for his seclusion was to keep away from Mary Travis, the journalist who was spending a week with his team writing a story for the Clarion News, the local paper. This meant that she was required to tag along during their field assignments, stakeouts and now, thanks to Buck, who was going to be fast tracked to checking liquor licenses at gay bars if he did not stop his meddling, to their favourite watering hole as well. Buck, who's crazy imagination led him to believe that he, Chris Larabee, was attracted to the woman, had invited Mary along when the team had left the office at the day's end.
Chris sat apart from the rest of his team who were congregated around the woman, engaged in lively chatter as she told war stories of her journalistic prowess abroad. Although he was placed at the bar while his team occupied a table, Chris could hear snippets of conversation and had to begrudgingly admit that Mary had not been exaggerating when she said she could take care of herself. The lady was well travelled and by the sounds of it, she had seen her share of action in the past.
Chris turned back to his beer when he saw Buck Wilmington rise from the table that the rest of Team 7 were occupying, preparing to order another round of drinks while at the same time, make another attempt to charm the siren like beauty who presently owned the establishment. Inez Rosillos was at present tending bar and Chris had to admit she was a stunning looking woman, with dusky skin, jet coloured hair and dark looks that could only have been moulded for the sole purpose of seduction. Unfortunately, for Buck that is, the personality of the lady was nothing like what her incredible features might imply. Chris found her earthy, brazen and completely oblivious that her looks could reduce men to slobbering idiots if she ever chose to use her beauty that way.
"Hello darling," Buck said, leaning over the counter oozing copious amounts of charm while waiting for Inez to come for his order."
Inez glanced over her shoulder from where she had been polishing some glasses and rolled her eyes seeing Buck waiting for her. Chris watched the exchange with amusement, wondering if Buck had any idea whatsoever, how prepared the lady was for him.
"What can I get you Senor?" she asked politely, as always, never rude, just to the point.
"How about my heart?" Buck replied with a look on his face that Chris knew to be the patented 'Buck Wilmington puppy dog special.' It usually worked quite well with the insipid types but somehow Chris had a feeling that it was not going to be so easy with Inez.
"I'm sorry," Inez said sweetly. "I'm all out of hearts, but brains are the special of the house and you seem to be in need of at least one."
"You wound me Inez," Buck said smoothly and Chris had to applaud the quick recovery. "Once you get to know me, you'll see that I'm a man of depths."
"I have no doubt of that Senor," she said skeptically and then shifted to the reason for his appearance at the bar. "Now, what can I get you?"
Buck let out a deep sigh, deciding that he was going to win her one way or another but that was not to be tonight. Giving her his order, he came towards Chris to wait while she went off to fill it. Buck tried not to seem disappointed that the plan of getting Mary and Chris together in a more sociable environment had failed. He should have known Chris would not make it easy for him to work his magic as matchmaker with out a good deal more effort.
"Are you going to hide out here all night?" Buck grumbled, as he approached his old friend.
"No," Chris drained his glass and said with perfect innocence. "I'm going to go home and hide out all night."
"Just talk to her!" Buck said exasperated. "I mean she's beautiful and I think she likes you."
Despite himself, Chris' gaze shifted to Mary with interest, before realising that he had given himself away about how he really felt about the woman. Meeting Buck's triumphant grin with narrowed eyes, the leader of Team 7 said in a very low voice, "Leave it alone Buck."
The tone of his voice told Buck 'go away' and the ATF agent had too much sense of self-preservation to ignore that warning. He was almost grateful when Inez turned up with his order so that he could make a graceful departure. Picking up the tray, Buck let out a weary sigh of resignation. "Whatever you say Chris." Disapproval showed clearly in his voice as he spoke, however, Buck was not game enough to say anything else as he left.
Chris watched him go and took note of the arrival of Alexandra Styles in the establishment. Her presence in the saloon coincided with Vin rising from his chair and crossing the floor to meet her. Chris was glad that things were going so well for at least one of the team when it came to their love life. He only had to glance at Ezra who was seated on the far end of the bar, nursing a glass of champagne, to know that he was probably feeling as miserable as the leader of Team 7.
In truth, Ezra was not miserable, but he was depressed. He sat at the edge of the bar, paying little attention to the proceedings around him as he continued to stack champagne glasses in the same formation as one might attempt with small shot glasses. He knew that he was being ridiculous. Every time he met the woman, she did nothing but injure him as he could attest by the dull throbbing of his ribs following their last encounter. Trouble was, she also had the power to deliver the most heart stopping kisses he had ever known. He almost sighed, reminiscing about the wonderful scent of her perfume when those silken lips had touched him, sending a charge of electricity surging through his entire being until it had gone to critical mass in that sensitive place below his waistline.
Somehow he had to find her!
"Senor Standish," Inez said, returning to the handsome ATF agent with another tall glass of champagne. "I think this is the last one I am giving you. As it is, I think I am going to have to ask for your keys." She looked at him with no hint that she was joking.
"My dear lady," he said with typical Ezra Standish dignity, "I assure you I am perfectly capable of taking myself home or comporting myself in an automobile."
"I don't think so," she shook her head. "You're a walking violation of alcohol as it is. It's your keys or the bar is closed. The choice is yours," she said firmly, unmovable on this point.
Ezra frowned as he debated his decision before digging into his coat and producing the keys to his Jaguar. "You have me at a disadvantage, Miss Rosillos, but for the moment, I succumb to your wisdom." He dropped the whole set into her palm and watched her slip it under the counter.
"Now tell me," she said leaning over the bar and unintentionally giving an eyeful of a very impressive cleavage. Being the gentleman that Ezra was, he tried to keep his eyes on her face.
"What could reduce a man like yourself to the state you are in?" she asked, displaying a genuine concern that touched Ezra more than he liked to admit.
"I would rather not talk about it," Ezra replied, leaning his chin on the hand that was propped up by the elbow against the hard polished surface of the bar counter. "It would only make me order another drink and I think, we would all agree that I may have had enough for the evening."
"I will bring you another if you like," Inez said warmly, a hint of affection filtering into her voice for this man. Like all the members of Team 7, she was familiar with him since assuming ownership of the saloon and had been impressed at how he always managed to treat her like a lady, even though some would be so vulgar as to call her nothing more than a bar maid. It was quite something to make a woman like herself, who was not prone to sentiment, feel like a lady and for that she would always had a soft spot for him. "I will also put you in a cab myself, if I have to."
"Why Miss Inez," he produced a delightfully boyish smile. "Are you making a pass at me?"
Not really, Inez thought immediately but saw no reason to be rude because his behaviour seemed to indicate he was wounded enough already without her adding fresh pain to his stable. "Would you mind?" she asked, teasing him a little.
"Not at all," he played the game a little further before adding, "However, if I were to display an interest in you, I have this terrible feeling that I am going to be on the receiving end of yet another misfire."
"I beg your pardon?" She looked at him not understanding.
"A bad joke." Ezra shrugged away the comment. "I do not suppose you would care to take me up on an invitation to dinner sometime?"
"Dinner would be nice." Inez nodded with a smile. "When you sober up, let me know when you would like to go," she said sounding nothing like the bartender that had delivered such scathing rebuttals to Buck Wilmington in his pursuit of her. She drifted off to tend to her other customers, leaving Ezra with the warmth of her smile on his skin like sunshine on a beautiful day.
Ezra could well understand why Buck was so smitten. He also knew that with the playboy's present tactics, were never going to get anywhere with the lady. Inez was not someone that could be won over with slippery words or juvenile attempts at seduction. The person who won her heart would have to earn it. While Ezra had no aspirations for that end himself, he did like her company and he would genuinely enjoy taking her out to dinner. He watched her serving customers for another moment before deciding that he should really join the others at their table. Chris Larabee was the only one who could be that unsociable, but they all knew the reason for that even though no one was brave enough to admit it to his face.
Funny, he never thought Chris was the type to go in for cascading gold hair.
"Another fundraiser?" Vin Tanner grumbled as he heard that subject being brought up.
"Hey," Alex said with a smile as she walked back with him to the table towards his friends. "At least I don't have to spend $7000 to get a ride home."
"You spent $7000 on a lot more than that." He grinned mischievously and was rewarded with a gentle elbow in the stomach.
"You're so funny," Alex retorted and then greeted everyone at the table when they reached the others.
Once the chorus of greetings was delivered and a place had been made at the table for Alex to sit next to Vin, Buck took the liberty of introducing Alex to Mary. As Mary looked at Alex, she realized that she recognized the doctor from somewhere and took a moment to try and remember where that had been.
"Were you with the UN Relief in Kosovo?" Mary asked eyeing Alex closely, because the face was familiar.
"I was." Alex nodded the affirmative. "I did a short stint there before I came back here to private practice," she explained to those who did not know, which fortunately did not include Vin. "I've read your work in Newsweek and the New York Times. What are you doing here?" she asked.
"Slumming," Mary joked, sweeping her gaze over the men around her as she said it, eliciting a chuckle from Alex.
"Nice to be appreciated," Josiah retorted. "So did we hear something about a fundraiser?" He looked at Vin with a wicked glint in his eyes. "I thought you had enough of those."
Vin gave the man a dark look before replying. "Oh there's some charity thing that's going on with Alex's dad," Vin drawled with clear dislike in his voice at having to attend. "Looks like we're gonna have to go."
"Tell me about it," Alex replied with a loud sigh. "Last time I went to one of those things, look what I went home with?" Her joke drew some laughter from the others including Mary, who was quickly discovering that she liked Doctor Styles and seemed a fitting match for Vin Tanner.
"You didn't complain," he pointed out, proving to Mary that he was a fitting match for Alex as well. "Later."
"Okay, that's about as much as I need or want to know," Nathan quickly spoke up. "So what's the fundraiser for?" he inquired, moving to safer territory.
"I think it's for war refugees or something," Alex answered, trying to remember what exactly her father had said. She had been so disillusioned about the idea of going that she had not listened too closely to the specifics when William Styles had informed her about the affair.
"You know," Mary said easing back into her chair, her mind whirling with the possibilities presented by the arrival of Doctor Styles and a charity function. "It would make an interesting angle in the story, if you guys went to this thing. Particularly in relation to your interpersonal relationship with each other not just during work but after it as well. I mean it would be a nice contrast from all the procedural stuff not to mention, the violence you see on a daily basis."
"I could get you guys a table," Alex suggested, catching on quick and having to admit that Vin would probably be a lot happier about going to this event in a tuxedo if he had some friends to accompany him. "I'm sure the organizers would not mind the extra publicity."
"I don't care as long as I don't gotta suffer alone," Vin remarked, showing his own enthusiasm for the subject. Besides, he liked the idea of not having to suffer alone.
"I'll go," Buck said readily never being able to say no to any kind of party where the possibilities of female company, in this case wealthy and elegant female company. "With all those rich and prissy debutantes in the room, try keeping me away."
Inez, who just happened to be collecting glasses from empty tables near by just as he made that remark, rolled her eyes in disgust and was heard to have uttered one word that was just loud enough to for everyone to hear prior to her return to the bar. "Pig."
"She's just jealous," Buck said when she was no longer in earshot. "She wants me you know." He looked at the others with such conviction in this belief that no one dared to infer otherwise and allowed his delusions of grandeur to continue. "She's just playing hard to get."
No one spoke because there was nothing one could say really in answer to that statement.
"Moving along," Mary broke the silence and fortunately saved anyone from having to comment by returning to the subject at hand.
"Please," Josiah agreed.
"I think it would be a good way to show people that you're just as ordinary as anyone else, you know a multi-facetted image of the typical stereotype." She continued to put forward the case, which was winning approval the more she spoke. Besides, a black tie event where they were not the main course in a raffle did have its attraction.
"Well it's for a good cause," Nathan leaning towards an agreement to attend.
"When is it?" JD asked, wanting to do something special with Casey for a few days now. Between her studies at college and his duties here, they never seemed to go anywhere for dinner that did not involve French fries and paper hats.
"This Friday night," Alex answered. "Can I count you in too?"
JD thought quickly, deciding that since his plans with Casey on Friday involved pizza and watching one of those movies she liked that bored him to tears, this was a nice alternative. "Yeah, me and Casey are in."
"Well, I'll see you people tomorrow," Chris Larabee's voice suddenly interrupted the conversation when the leader of Team 7 appeared at the table. He had decided that he was in no mood to be sociable tonight and was fast reaching the point where it would no longer be safe for him to drive if he continued drinking. Besides, the last thing he wanted was one of his men to drive him home like he was some kind of a lush, especially with Mary Travis present. "I'm going," he said, having paused only to offer his farewells on his way out.
"Hey Chris," Buck quickly spoke up, not willing to let Chris get away that easily. Since tonight had been a bust as far as the matchmaking stakes had gone, Buck was determined to try again at the opportunity provided by a collective night out. "Mary thinks we ought to go to this fund raiser that Alex's dad is throwing on Friday night. Since it's for the story she's writing, the rest of us thought we might make a night out of it. What about you, Chris? Want to join us?" Buck asked with a glimmer in his eyes that dared Chris to refuse.
"I can guarantee a limo," Alex added, unaware of the signals were being passed between the two men, but knew that Vin would be disappointed if Chris was the odd man out, since he considered the leader of Team 7 to be his best friend.
Chris said nothing but was perfectly aware that Buck had more or less dropped an unseen gauntlet before him and was challenging him to pick it up. He avoided making eye contact with Mary because he was certain she was most interested in his answer. At least he hoped she was. For a moment, he deliberated whether or not he wanted to get into a monkey suit and wrestle with a tie that would only annoy him the entire night. On the other hand, if this was for the story being written by Mary about his team, then it was essential that he participated and would be unseemly if he did not attend. It was best just to go along.
Or he could just stop being an idiot and admit that he wanted to go instead of grandstanding like some stubborn teenager trying to look cool in front of the other kids.
"Whatever," he shrugged, opting for the less embarrassing of both choices. "You can give me the details tomorrow," Chris replied and resumed walking out of the saloon, not waiting to see their response or caring for that matter.
Yet, even as he departed, Chris could not help feeling that Friday night was going to be a disaster.
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Ezra Standish grinned as he watched JD tug at his collar yet another time. The youth was clearly uncomfortable in the attire, but was determined to make this night as memorable as possible for his sweetheart, and so had forgone his own comfort. Ezra, himself, was quite comfortable in his own chosen attire. His undercover work for the ATF often required him to dine black tie with wealthy gunrunners and as such formal wear was an integral part of his wardrobe. Instead of the black tuxedos that his fellow agents had chosen, Ezra had opted for a white jacket over his black pants.
"Where's Rain?" Josiah's deep voice broke through Ezra's musings. The older man was referring to Rain Walker, Nathan Jackson's ladylove. Rain was a graduate student at the university and was constantly bogged down by her studies. But she loved it and Ezra knew that many weekends Nathan would spend hours with her, helping her study or just being there with her.
The ex-medic shook his head. "She can't make it. Her first round of testing starts next week and she needs to study.
On the heels of Nathan's explanation, the elevator dinged announcing Alex's arrival. Vin, whose back was to the doors, was still busy adjusting his tie when he realized that all of his friends had fallen silent. Turning, Tanner's mouth dropped to the floor.
A star.
The brightest, most incandescent star from the Heavens had fallen to earth and taken the name of Alexandra Styles. Vin watched in awe as Alex made her way towards him, her silver dress shimmering and rippling with each step she took. His blue eyes dropped to the floor, taking in the sight of her matching silver shoes and traveling upwards, over the long length of her lush body covered by the starlit gown. The starlight dress was secured to her smooth shoulders by a chain of metal that looped around her neck. Alex's hair was in a state of wild disarray, wind kissed and free, it added to the image Vin had in his head of her falling from heaven straight into his arms. Slipping his arms around Alex, Vin softly kissed her, whispering against her lips, "You are beautiful."
The soft, simple statement made Alex's heart beat faster. 'Lord, could a man be any more perfect?' Alex smiled up at Vin, lost in the crystal blue of his eyes.
The two lovers were lost in each other's eyes and so had completely missed the happy smiles that had graced the faces of the other six men.
Buck watched as JD once again glanced at his watch. "She's coming, JD. Just be patient."
JD snorted. "This from the man who can't wait the five minutes it takes to go through the McDonalds' drive thru."
"Ha. Ha. Very funny, JD."
Whatever JD was going to say died quietly in his throat. For the bullpen had become graced with a fairy tale princess. JD stood rooted to the floor as the vision floated towards him, the pale pink tulle bell of her skirt gently swaying with each step she took. The hard bodice of her gown was a garden of pinks and blues and left her shoulders completely bared to JD's hungry eyes. It also left a small sexy strip of Casey's midriff bare. Her hair had been tamed into two French braids, the ends lightly brushing her shoulders. The flowers on her bodice matched those interwoven with her hair. The happy smile on her face held the young man spellbound.
The smile slowly faded though when she saw the frown on JD's face. "JD?"
Still stunned, JD said nothing until Buck nudged him, none too softly either. Then JD blurted, "We're not going anymore."
"What?" More than one voice was raised in surprise.
"I'm not going anywhere with you looking like that!" JD blustered as he vaguely waved his hands in her direction.
Casey's eyes teared as she glanced down at the gown. "You don't like it." It wasn't a question, just a softly whispered statement.
"Of course I like it!" JD nearly yelled.
Casey was confused. "Then why?"
"You look great! Like a princess! So great that I'm gonna have to beat those rich guys off of you with a big ass stick," JD snapped in exasperation. "I don't want to share you!" he declared.
The other men and Alex covered their laughter with coughs but JD was once again stunned by the exquisite smile on Casey's face. In his vexation, JD did not realize that he had given Casey the most wonderful compliment she had ever received in her life.
Leaning over, Casey shyly kissed away JD's frown. "Don't worry, JD. I'm all yours."
"Damn straight," JD growled, wrapping his arm around his sweetheart, sounding exactly like his idol, Chris Larabee.
In truth, Casey Wells did feel a bit like a fairy tale princess, Cinderella being the one that came to mind. The gown's skirt swirled heavily around her ankles was decidedly feminine while the bodice made her feel small and delicate. Over JD's shoulder, Casey sent her fairy godmother her thanks.
Buck winked at the young girl, glad he could help.
Chris was getting impatient and emphasized it by glaring at the large faced clock above the elevator doors. They were still waiting for that reporter to arrive.
"If she's not here in two minutes we're leaving without her," he growled. The six other men seemed amused by his actions while Alex and Casey wore confused expressions.
The doctor frowned at Vin's team leader. "Really, Chris. Do you have to be so... so... ."
"Jackassy?" Buck helpfully supplied as he returned Larabee's glare with one of his own.
"I don't understand this... antagonistic... behavior the two of you have towards each other." Alex shook her head, confused as to why the ATF agent and the reporter acted like five-year-olds whenever they were in close proximity. Of course, Chris wasn't the easiest man to get along with and Mary did have very strong opinions, but Alex still didn't understand why they had to behave like...
Alex's eyes went wide. The doctor studied Chris from across the room, then smiled.
"Don't even think about it." Vin's voice had Alex lifting her head from his shoulder.
Wide innocent eyes matched the equally innocent question, "Think about what?"
"Whatever you're thinking about Chris and Mary... forget it." Vin looked down at her, pinning her with his eyes, trying to make sure she understood.
Alex grinned triumphantly. "I knew it! He wants her!"
"Yeah and she wants him."
"Then what's the problem?"
"They don't like each other."
Alex didn't think she heard that right. "What?"
Vin sighed and shook his head. "Don't ask—and don't do anything. You're liable to get me killed. Chris wouldn't shoot you but he'll sure as hell have no problem shooting me."
Alexandra grinned.
Across the room, Buck's exclamation of "Hot Damn!" brought everyone's attention to the mustached man. More than one pair of eyes widened as they followed Buck's line of sight. More than one jaw dropped as the ATF agents watched Inez Rosillos make her entrance. Buck's brain had short-circuited the instant he spied the Latin beauty and the one short statement had been the extent of his cognitive abilities... that and the thought "a living flame". That was the image brought on by Inez and her rose colored dress. The dress was a single long shaft of crimson red that encased Inez's sultry body and left her shoulders bare. Her dark hair had been ruthlessly tamed into a French braid leaving only a few wisps of hair to frame her face. In her hand, Inez carried a shawl of black Spanish lace. The blood red rose behind her left ear completed the Modern Senorita's attire.
"That dress is so tight! How can she breathe?" Casey whispered in awe.
"Hell, that dress is so tight, I can't breathe!" Buck exclaimed.
Hearing the loud blustering voice, Inez sent the rogue one sizzling glance that said, 'You can look, but you're never going to touch' before heading for her date.
It is a well known fact that if the brain stops receiving oxygen, a person might become mentally deficient. In other words—Buck was stunned stupid. "What the hell are you doing here?"
Inez lifted a single dark eyebrow. "Ezra invited me."
"Ezra?" More than one voice repeated in astonishment. Buck, because he was still hoping that she had overheard their plans and decided to come to be with him. And Chris, because he knew for a fact that Ezra was still hung up on the cat burglar known as the Crimson Fox.
Ezra stepped forward, offering the Latin beauty his left arm. "Miss Rosillos has consented to give the pleasure of her company this evening. Alexandra, I hope this is acceptable?"
Alex grinned at the sight of Buck's mouth working but no sound coming out. "Oh, that's fine with me. Daddy reserved a very large table for us."
Once Ezra had gain Alex's approval, he then turned to Inez with a dazzling smile. Raking his eyes over her form, appreciation and approval shown from his delighted eyes. "You are exquisite my dear."
Inez thought about just saying 'thank you' but the sight of Buck Wilmington seething made her give into her naughty side. Slipping her arms around the Southerner, Inez laid a very generous 'thank you' right on his stunned lips. At first, Ezra was too shocked to react but then quickly sank into the sultry kiss. They kissed for what seem like forever and when they finally surfaced, it was to see several astounded faces. Ezra's eyes widened at Buck's expression... if looks could kill.
"You know, pard, you could always try shooting him in the ass," Vin smirked as he leaned over towards Buck.
Buck only spared Vin and Alex a quick glance. "Yeah, worked for you didn't it?"
Vin's "hell yeah" earned him a poke in the ribs from Alex.
Chris leaned against the doorjamb of his office about to leave for the benefit, with or without the reporter, when he was suddenly frozen in his tracks.
Damn woman.
Chris had hoped that she wouldn't come and that he wouldn't have to spend an entire evening in complete agony. Every damn time he looked at her, he got hard and stayed that way, long after she had left. The ATF leader, known for his iron will, would deplete every store of energy he possessed trying not to jump her bones. But is seemed that Fate wanted to test him even further. For tonight...
Tonight, Mary Travis was even more ravishing and desirable if it were possible. Tonight, she reminded him of his favorite dessert, Alabaster Death.
Time stood still as his mind equated the beautiful woman in front of him with a dessert so decadent that he had nearly climaxed with his first taste. The gauzy silk of the dress was the white chocolate cage that surrounded the dessert. Both confections were meant to be taken off slowly, to be savored equally slowly. The dress caressed her body from shoulders to ankle, protecting all of her feminine secrets much like how the cage protected the rich cream underneath. The starving man watched as silk floated about her, teasing and torturing him to a painful level of hunger and arousal. He licked his lips in remembrance of the moist white cake, soaked in the sweetness of Rose Grenadine, which had been hidden in the heart of the sweetest vanilla cream he had ever tasted. At this moment he was willing to sell his soul to find out if she tasted as sweet and as intoxicating as that liquor soaked delicacy.
"Close your mouth, cowboy. Flies are collecting."
To his utter humiliation, Chris felt Vin reach over and physically shut his gapping mouth. He looked over to see a smirking Vin and an equally amused Alex, who disturbingly had a calculating gleam in her eyes. Chris was grateful that she was too busy greeting his friends to see his embarrassing loss of control.
"One word, Tanner, and Alex will be disappointed tonight and every night hereafter." The deadly threat was low, and made Vin's smirk grow wider.
My God. Could a man be any more devastating?
Mary sighed as she took in the sight of Chris Larabee dressed to the nines. His dark black tuxedo emphasized his tall, lean form. He was a mysterious package, wrapped in dark cloth, daring her to open him. He brought to mind long, dark nights of torrid lovemaking. And mornings of equally scorching intimacy. His darkness swallowed the light and made him all the harder to resist. The only relief from the darkness was the small white square of his tuxedo shirt's band collar, but an onyx button cover even dominated that small white square. Her eyes traveled over his lean form, stopping when she encountered his hard, annoyed visage.
"You're late." His tone was clipped and annoyed. "Let's go."
My God. Could a man be any ruder?
The man was absolutely gorgeous but had the manners of a pig! She had chosen this dress hoping that it might sweeten his disposition just a tiny bit. But not a word, not a single blessed word of praise. No. Only a 'you're late' and a 'let's go'. She got more of a compliment from the rest of Team Seven's warm smiles than she did their leader. Insufferable cad!
Mary watched as he walked out of the bullpen, sweeping by her without a single word, not even bothering to introduce her to the rest of the women present or even acknowledge her presence.
Smart... drop dead gorgeous... sexy as hell... rude bastard.
Those words describe Chris Larabee to a tee.
As he swept by her, Chris's body tightened at the whiff of perfume enveloping her body. For once, he was grateful for the long, formal tuxedo jacket. His premonition that tonight would be a complete disaster once again reared its ugly head.
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Oh yeah, this had been a good idea.
Alexandra Styles searched her purse frantically, praying that amidst the cosmetics and other incidentals a woman tended to carry with her on an evening out, there was also a strip of Tylenol. After being trapped in a limousine with some of the most disagreeable and argumentative assholes in the universe, gender not withstanding, Alex had decided that if she did not have some peace and quiet soon, she was either going to jump out of the vehicle or start killing people. As her headache started to impress itself upon her more fully, she was starting to think that the latter of the two alternatives might be the more satisfying.
The focus of all this discourse was Chris Larabee and Mary Travis, who when apart were quite reasonable people but, for some reason whenever they were anywhere within breathing distance of each other, had the same effect on each other that gasoline had when poured on a raging inferno. Since getting into the limousine, both had not stopped arguing about one stupid thing or another and having confessed that her relationship with Vin had begun along those lines, Alex just wished they would just admit how they felt about one another. It was obvious Chris was very attracted to Mary and by her reactions to him, that feeling was mutual.
Despite how much both would like to deny it.
Of course, Chris and Mary were not the only ones who were less than happy with their present circumstances, although in Buck's case, he had limited himself to expressing his feelings with sarcastic remarks and sharp glares aimed squarely in the direction of Ezra Standish. Thanks to the passionate display by Ezra and Inez Rosillos upon the lady's arrival at the ATF office, Buck's mood was well and truly beyond the sphere of his usually happy go lucky self. The ladies' man was none too impressed that the object of his affections these last few weeks was now someone else's date. Being the unfortunate half of unrequited love did not suit the man well. The situation was not alleviated by the fact that Inez appeared utterly spectacular, epitomizing the term 'spicy Mexican' in a red dress that accentuated every perfect curve of her body and reminded Alex that she needed to add an extra mile to her morning jog.
"Please tell me we are almost there." Alex heard Josiah ask. The usually calm and spiritual man sounded almost as weary and irritable as she did about the bickering that was presently taking place inside the vehicle and wanted out of the bull pit as quickly as possible.
Vin glanced out the window and saw the vehicle take a turn of road that indicated they were only blocks away from the Pallas Gallery where the fundraiser would be taking place. "Not yet," the sharpshooter replied. "Give it another few minutes."
"Thank Christ," Nathan remarked under his breath, voicing the unspoken sentiments of the rest of the passengers who were not presently in a love hate relationship or engaged in some form of rivalry with one another.
"So how are we placed for seating?" Josiah asked, hoping to keep the conversation to the most inert subject matter in order to keep Mary or Chris from launching in to a fresh argument of something trivial that was little more than a thinly veiled ritual for mating.
"We have a whole table to ourselves," Alex explained taking the man's lead. "The truth is, the exhibit in question is extremely valuable and the organizers were quite happy to have some ATF agents on stand by. Added security without actually having to pay for it."
"Good," Mary released a soft sigh, which unfortunately was loud enough for Chris to hear.
Chris threw her a dark look, certain that remark was meant for him and immediately took up the bait. "Suits me." The leader of Team 7 snorted with just as much contempt.
"Fine," Mary snapped, back having heard his response just as he had been privy to her own. "I had no intention of sitting anywhere near you any way."
"I'll try to get over the disappointment of not having to spend an evening being stuck with a loud mouth journalist," he retorted.
A collective groan traveled throughout the entire group as they saw things deteriorate from there and prepared themselves for another verbal barrage between the two.
Josiah dropped his head back onto the top of the seat. Nathan let out a heavy sigh. Vin sagged against the window and counted parked cars passing by. Buck wondered what Inez could see in Ezra. Ezra told himself not to turn his back on Buck. Inez thought Chris and Mary made a nice couple. JD wondered how long they could keep at it before their throats got sore. Casey thought this was better than TV.
Alex just smoldered.
"Loud mouth?" Mary said, rising to the occasion spectacularly unaware that her reactions were completely predictable to everyone present but Chris Larabee. "I am not the one who has been behaving like a juvenile since I got this stupid assignment." She glared at Chris, daring him to say otherwise.
"Well we agree on one thing," Chris retorted, unprepared to yield defeat especially when it came to her. "It is a stupid assignment. You've done nothing but get in the way."
"Get in the way?" Mary sputtered with fury, her hands on her hips in the universal gesture of feminine fury invoked in all its glory. "How can I get in the way when you won't even let me out of your sight!"
While all this arguing was going on, Casey was watching them both thoroughly entertained, her eyes moving back and forth between the two supposed adults like she was watching a particularly enthralling game of tennis. "These two are great," the young woman said lowering her voice so she would not interrupt Chris and Mary.
"What?" JD stared at her as if she were brain damaged. "How can you call this great? They haven't stopped arguing since they got in the car!"
Chris and Mary, who were so involved in their tirade, were barely aware of the exchange, which had more or less been the pattern of their arguments throughout the drive to the gallery. Casey leaned over to JD without taking her eyes off the duo. "It's like watching Moonlighting."
"At least on Moonlighting, nobody's steals Maddy from David," Buck grumbled under his breath, throwing a look that said volumes in the direction of Inez and was immediately set upon by Ezra.
"What the hell is that supposed to mean, Mr. Wilmington?" The gambler glared at him with accusatory demand.
"I don't gotta say," Buck said with slight huff to his voice before folding his arms and tying not to look at Inez even though it was obvious that was what he was referring to.
"Excuse me, Senor," Inez bristled angrily, turning her gaze at him in annoyance. "I do not recall ever being considered yours for you to consider me stolen away in the first place and I go with whomever I please."
"That's obvious," he returned with a remark he knew was out of line as soon as it left his mouth.
Inez's jaw dropped in outrage. "How dare you!"
"Mr. Wilmington, I do believe you owe the lady an apology." Ezra came to her defense, starting to feel as if this whole situation was getting out of hand. Buck had no reason to be jealous since his own efforts with the lady had proved anything but successful. Despite their little show of passion earlier, which was done mostly for Buck's detriment, Ezra and Inez were just friends and he would tolerate no one besmirching her good name or her reputation with innuendo.
"Like hell I do," Buck returned tautly, clearly unrepentant about anything he had said even though inwardly, he knew he was wrong.
"I must insist," Ezra said with enough of an edge to his voice to indicate just how serious he was on that point. Suddenly, the whole situation was snowballing into an avalanche of frayed nerves and rising tempers.
"All right! That's enough!"
Alexandra Styles' voice resonated throughout the cramp confines of the limousine as her narrowed eyes swept past all of the recently silenced faces, Vin included, with an expression that could only be described as stormy. The inside of her head was playing highlights from a particularly bad German opera, thanks to the childish arguments taking place from both ends of the vehicle. Even Chris and Mary had stopped their bickering long enough to stare at the doctor in surprise at her outburst considering she had been the one playing mediator during the entire trip here by keeping everyone calm.
"Darlin'... ." Vin started to speak when Alex cut him off.
"Did I say you could talk?" She whirled around and glared him into submission. When Vin was properly cowed back into place she turned to the others and said in a low hiss. "Now we have ten minutes before we arrive at the gallery so we are all going to be quiet until we get there, do you hear me? We are going to be quiet and civil and behave partially sensitive to everyone else's feelings or else I am going to kill every one of you. Is that clear?"
"Alex... ." Chris drawled, naturally being the only one who would dare to speak up in the face of such a menacing warning. He also noted the slight wince on Vin's face as the sharpshooter returned a look of pity directed at him. Vin wondered if Chris had any idea what he was provoking. Vin had seen Alex's temper in full flower and had come away from the experience feeling glad he was armed at the time.
"Don't Alex me!" Alex growled unimpressed by his audacity since he and Mary had been the principal cause of her fury. "Between you and Mary here, I have a headache the size of Jupiter from listening to you both bitching! I haven't seem a display like this since watching two alligators mate in Wild Kingdom! Sorry, it that too vague for you? How about two wolverines in heat! I think I speak for everyone when I say will you two please do everyone a favour and just get the sex over and done with!"
Buck started to laugh as Chris fell silent, unable to say anything in response while Mary turned red with embarrassment. Buck was enjoying this immensely, the bits of home truth that Alex was dispensing out quite superbly to both of them. However, it was not wise to call himself to her attention at this point...
"What are you laughing about!" Alex roared. "You're no better than they are!"
"What did I do?" Buck stammered, sounding like a child who is unaware that it had done something wrong.
"What did you do?" Alex snorted derisively, wondering if he was stupid as well as a walking erection. "You have a yard stick for every woman you meet and it is measured by three letters. S-E-X! It's no wonder Inez went with Ezra!"
"Thank you." Inez said gratefully although she felt slightly admonished by her behaviour in front of the man earlier.
"Hear, hear." Ezra remarked with a smug expression on his face that was not going to last long.
"And you?" Alex turned to him, not letting anyone escaped unscathed. "How many times do you have to get shot in the ass before you work out not to take out a woman that someone else is interested in?"
"Hey, I resent the implication... " Vin spoke up in his defense and went very silent went Alex looked his way again.
Fortunately by this time, the limousine had arrived where it was going and the familiar sound of gears and brakes locked into place as they came to a stop. Outside, beautiful people in gowns and tuxedos made their way up the red carpeted walk, oblivious to the roasting taking place inside the vehicle at the curb.
"We're here," Nathan exclaimed, relieved that he was getting out of this asylum on wheels before Alex decided to offer a sacrifice to appease the gods of her headache.
"Thank Christ," Alex grumbled and practically climbed over everyone to get out of the door first. When she had gone, she left only muted expressions in her wake with Vin shaking his head in disbelief at the guilty that had precipitated her explosive outburst.
"Gee," Mary said innocently to the others as she saw Alex smoothing her dress on the sidewalk. "I wonder what was up with her?"
It was the job of a lifetime.
If she could make this caper work, she could actually think about retiring. Perhaps buy that little island that she always wanted and winter in St. Moritz for the rest of her life. The possibilities were endless. Staring at it from behind the velvet ropes that kept the viewing audience from getting too close to the prize itself and setting off a dozen security alarms, her green eyes sparkled at the sight of the gem.
For many in her profession, the object known throughout the world as La Piedra de las Epocas, translated from Spanish as the 'Rock of Ages,' was the Holy Grail. A solid orb of sapphire, considered one of the largest in the world, its legend was further heightened by an unrecognizable substance in the dead center of it that no one had been able to explain. Since splitting such a magnificent gem was out of the question, the mystery remained and the epicenter of the gem continued to tantalize all who sought to own it.
She had no intention of owning it, but she did intend to break it up into several large pieces and make millions from the sale. Of course, such a thing was easier said and done. Many of her colleagues now found themselves languishing in jail or reduced to gibbering wrecks in their relentless pursuit of the gem but she had no intention of going out that way. She was going to get it. After two interruptions, she finally managed to get her hands on the elusive Monet—once the goddamn ATF got their noses out of her business. This would be no different.
Anyone who happened upon her would see a striking woman with intense emerald colour eyes and copper coloured hair that was almost as brilliant as the gem behind her. Sheathed in red satin, wearing an outfit reminiscent of the one that Marilyn wore in 'Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend,' she blended in perfectly with the other partygoers. The thief moved through the elite in their fancy suits and gowns, while maintaining a deep study of them and their jewellery. She always kept her eye out for an interesting collection in the event she had a few hours to kill.
"I do not believe we've met," A male voice said silkily while she was studying the gem. While most would think she was transfixed by the jewel, in actual fact she was studying the security measures in place, seeking for the tell tale signs that were not apparent anywhere but in the blue prints of the security layout she had in her possession.
"We haven't," she replied, allowing him to take her gloved hand. "But I know who you are, Mr. Rainer."
"Then you have the advantage of me," he smiled at her with his dark hair and good looks, before planting a continental greeting on her knuckles. "Miss... "
"Smith," she teased.
"Smith." He looked at her with a raised brow. "How very elusive of you."
"I prefer it that way," she answered, turning back to the gem. "That's a very impressive bauble you have there." She glanced at it briefly before meeting his gaze.
"It's one of many," he said smoothly, disregarding it since he was more interested in her. "I hardly take notice of it any more."
"A pity," she said with a hint of amusement, perfectly aware of this game he was playing with her. These wealthy types had such a set routine, she wondered if they had any idea how predictable they were. Still, he was the owner of the object in question and so it was wise to cultivate any connection that might give her an advantage. She did not like him much, knowing as much about him as she did about the jewel itself. The man had a shady background and amidst the charity work and philanthropic pursuits, there was almost the distinct odor of someone who made his money dishonestly. She had made enough inquiries about the man to know that his background involved drug running, illegal arms trading and a whole slew of other unproven crimes.
"The gem has a remarkable history," she replied.
"You are a student of La Piedra de las Epocas?" He looked at her with some amusement, not having placed her as a follower of the artifact.
"Not a student, just interested," she said unwilling to divulge any more about herself than she needed. "I know that it was originally brought back to Europe by Hannibal after his campaigns in North Africa. There was some religious significance about it and it is supposedly cursed, although he who owns it, is seldom able to relinquish it. Hannibal himself kept it until his defeat at the Battle of Zama after which Scipio Afrikanus brought it back to Rome. It stayed in the family for a long time until one of the tyrant Caesars, possibly Nero, acquired it. It remained in the Roman treasury until the fall of the Empire and then it was used to fill the coffers of the Byzantium reign. It eventually fell into the hands of the Spanish and brought to the New World by the Conquistadors. They were eventually wiped out by a small, but ultimately, unsuccessful Aztec rebellion. The gem itself remained lost until one hundred twenty years ago with rumours that it became the focus of some strange cult before it was retrieved by your ancestor I believe."
"Very good," Rainer said impressed. "Yes, my ancestor did find it but we never considered La Piedra de las Epocas a source of bad luck. In fact, I have always found it to be most prosperous."
"I'm sure," she replied, deciding she did not like him much but had to maintain a facade for the benefit of the heist she would be attempting tonight. Her gaze shifted abruptly to a group of people entering the room and suddenly, she felt like the air had been driven from her lungs. While most of the faces were unfamiliar to her, one in particular stood out.
'What the hell was he doing here?' she thought frantically as she saw the handsome southerner in his tuxedo and admitted despite her rising anxiety, he looked absolutely smashing in it. He could identify her in a second and she had too much invested in La Piedra de las Epocas to let it slip through her fingers now or abandon her quest to acquire it.
"Excuse me Mr. Rainier," she said hastily, needing to get out of sight immediately. "I believe I see my party."
"It was my pleasure, Miss... .Smith," he bid her farewell as she started to depart.
"I am sure we will be meeting again," she declared, before hurrying into the crowd, in the hopes of losing herself in it.
"Oh my God, it's absolutely magnificent!" Inez exclaimed as she and the rest of the ATF team and their dates converged around the centerpiece of the fundraiser tonight. Most of the guests had arrived at this glamorous event, simply to capture a look at this legendary piece of sapphire. It sat beneath a glass case, its flawless facets emphasized by the sharp glare of powerful flood lights hanging from above.
"It does not hold a candle to you my dear," Ezra said smugly, throwing Buck a totally triumphant smirk that incensed the man to no end particularly when Inez wrapped her arm around him even tighter and kissed Ezra lightly on his cheek.
"You're so sweet Senor Standish," she smiled at the gambler, which made Buck sick to the stomach.
Buck sidled up to Vin and whispered in the sharpshooter's ear. "Vin, are you carrying?"
"Are you crazy?" Vin stared at him. "With that thing in here? There's enough security and metal detectors in this place to send every alarm off if I tried to come in here with a piece." He glanced at the glowing orb inside its glass case. "Why? Is there trouble?"
"No," Buck said glaring at Ezra. "But there might be after I shoot Ezra."
Mary Travis was interested but for an entirely different reason. Her attention was not focused on the gem but, instead, upon its owner, who was presently hobnobbing with the guests. They fawned over him, revealing their awe over his magnificent possession. She recognised the man even though she knew there was not a shred of proof connecting him to any of the crimes he was suspected of perpetrating. There was much speculation about Eric Rainier but very little factual information about the man himself since he did not grant interviews. Suddenly the idea of covering a little ATF Sunday edition magazine story did not seem as enticing as picking up an exclusive interview with the mysterious tycoon.
Slipping away from the others, Mary made her way towards Rainier, playing in her head all the opening lines she could use to dazzle him into agreeing to give her the interview that he had denied the rest of her professional colleagues. If she could just get this story; maybe she would not feel as if she were selling out by taking this job at the Clarion News.
"Don't even think about it," Chris Larabee said, coming out of nowhere and grabbing her arm before she could reach Rainier.
"Let me go!" she hissed at him. "What are you doing?"
"Stopping you from making a really bad mistake," he said pleasantly even though he was manhandling her in a room full of people.
"What I do is none of your business!" she declared, snatching her arm away from him. "That is the most elusive member of Fortune 500. If I can score an interview with him...."
"I'll be fishing your body out of the river," Chris snapped and had put enough space between her and Rainier to point out a few facts. "Listen the man is dangerous. We haven't been able to pin anything on him in years solely because anyone who talks dies. I don't want you anywhere near him."
"I can take care of myself." Mary bristled in annoyance when suddenly she saw something within the depth of his steel coloured eyes that made her realise that his concern was not on a professional level but a personal one. He cared not about her getting into trouble; he was worried about harm coming to her and that softened Mary's resolve a little. "I've been doing it awhile you know," she said with a little smile.
"Yeah and its amazing you're still alive." He said looking at her critically. "Don't make me get rough you." He warned.
Mary looked at him with a devious smile before leaning forward until he could smell the intoxicating scent of her perfume in his lungs and awoke all his senses as alabaster skin drew so close to him, he felt the overpowering desire to taste it with his mouth. Chris swallowed thickly at the temptation she presented but crushed the desire ruthlessly, refusing to allow her that much power over him.
"I like it rough," she said teasingly, brushing his skin gently with her breath as she leaned close to whisper that tantalising suggestion and drew away just as she saw his face turn crimson in reaction of her closeness.
He recovered quickly and returned with a look of sarcasm on his face. "You can play sexy but I'm still not letting you anywhere near Rainier."
"I wasn't playing... ." She dropped her jaw in outrage and wondered why she even bothered. "Oh never mind!" With that she stormed off into the crowd and left Chris smiling.
God, he loved messing with her head.
"Better?" Mary Travis gently applied the cold compress to the back Dr. Styles' neck. She, Alex, Inez, and Casey had the ladies' room all to themselves and were making the most of the privacy. Without the men present, they could relax and get to know each other.
"Mmm, thank you." Alex leaned her head back, letting the cold washcloth soothe the pounding in her temples. A half an hour into the charity event and the headache showed no signs of dissipating.
"You are not welcome," Mary tossed over her shoulder as she checked her appearance in the brightly-lit vanity mirror.
Alex lifted her head and stared in surprise at the reporter. "Excuse me?"
"I still haven't forgiven you for that 'wolverines in heat' comment yet."
Casey and Inez both snickered at the explanation. Since Alex's recommendation of "get the sex over and done with," the two combatant predators had stayed far away from each other, going so far as to completely ignore each other as much as humanly possible.
Alex smirked at her new friend. "I call 'em like I see 'em."
"Well, you didn't have to 'call' it in front of him!" Mary turned blazing eyes to the doctor.
Alex grinned. "Admit it. You've got the hots for him."
Casey rolled her eyes. "Who doesn't?"
"Casey!" The three older women looked at the college student in surprise.
"Hey, just because I love JD, doesn't mean I'm dead. If Chris didn't scare me so much, I'd go for him," Casey smiled mischievously, redoing the braids in her hair.
"Hmm," Inez agreed. "Senor Larabee certainly does have an air about him."
"Yeah and it smells like chauvinistic pig," Mary retorted. She watched the other women in the mirror. Mary slipped her lipstick back into her purse and was about to turn around when the door opened and in slipped a very familiar face. The green eyes said, "We don't know each other." Julia easily blended into the background, disappearing from sight.
"Mary? Mary?"
The reporter jerked when she realized that Casey had been speaking to her. "I'm sorry?"
"So do you want Chris or not?" Casey was truly dying to know.
Mary sighed and reluctantly nodded. At Casey's delighted squeal, Inez's husky laugh, and Alex's "I knew it!" Mary did something that all women for generations have done with their female friends: she swore them to secrecy. "Don't tell him."
"Why not?" Casey asked. After watching their verbal combat in the limousine, it intrigued the college student why two people would deny their attractions for each other.
Instead of answering the question, Mary changed the subject. "So, Inez, what do you think of Ezra?"
"He is so sweet. Unlike Senor Pig Wilmington, Ezra is a complete gentleman." Inez smiled mischievously. "He is also a very good kisser!"
Casey high-fived the Latino woman as Alex laughed. Mary watched as Julia stiffened at Inez's comments. Her reporter's instincts wondered why. But she didn't have time to dwell on the question as Inez's next question claimed Mary's attention.
Inez then turned to Alex. "Now, tell me. Why was Ezra shot in the butt?"
Alex smiled ruefully. "Well, it started like this... " By the end of the story, all four women had tears running down their cheeks.
"Priceless! Absolutely priceless!" Mary exclaimed as the four women made their way out of the ladies room. During the course of the hilarious story of how Alex and Vin finally got together, Mary had forgotten about the fifth woman in the room.
But she was still there and at the moment was fuming. Julia glared at the sultry Latino woman as they left the ladies' room. Julia shrank further back into the shadows when Inez suddenly turned and scanned the room.
"Inez?" Casey stopped, noticing the barkeep's sudden stop. "Is there something wrong?"
"No." Inez shook her head. "I thought I felt ojo."
"Ojo?" Casey peered into the shadows causing Julia to hold her breath.
"The evil eye." Her dark eyes made one last sweep. "Must have been my imagination. Come. The others are waiting." Inez captured Casey's hand and led the younger woman away.
Bastard. Two-timing, smooth-talking bastard!
Julia fumed as she prepared for the heist. Slipping the specially designed glasses out of their protective casing, Julia did a quick check, making sure she got what she paid for. Xander was a genius at creating special equipment and these glasses were his newest creation. Julia smiled, the modified night vision goggles worked perfectly.
After this heist, I am going to find out where he lives and steal every damn thing in his home. And I'll take his car too!
Julia smiled. He probably drove an old, slow, family sedan. After all, what else could a public servant afford? She pulled her thoughts away from revenge as she tested out the slim cutting laser. Another of Xander's inventions, it was a cutting laser small enough to be disguised as a pen. He had assured her that it would cut through anything. And judging by the hole in the ceramic wall tile, she had definitely gotten what she paid for.
Julia slipped both of her new toys back into her evening bag, then picked up the last item that Xander had supplied for her. It was small and innocuous; it looked like a small black compact. But Julia knew that if one pressed the latch, an explosion would destroy the transformer that supplied the gallery and the surrounding area with power.
Julia checked her appearance once more in the vanity, wondering what he saw in the Latino woman. She shook off the thoughts and left the room, eagerly anticipating the greatest heist of her career.
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Ezra stood by a pillar, champagne flutes in hand, waiting for Inez. He smiled at the other three women as they passed by him, each greeting him in return. His smile became wider as he saw Inez emerge.
"Gracias, Senor." Inez smiled as he handed her a flute, sipping from it lightly.
"De nada, my dear." Ezra kissed her hand, throwing Buck a smug grin as the other man bristled. But as he lifted his head, a familiar face made his smile slowly disappear.
Inez watched as Ezra's expression changed from relaxed to intense in seconds. "Ezra?"
"Inez, my dear, go find Chris. Tell him the Crimson Fox is here." Ezra never took his eyes from the red hair that moved among the crowd. "Tell him she is here to relieve the gallery of some priceless artifact."
"Ezra, what?" Inez craned her neck, trying to see what had him so transfixed.
"Please, darlin', just go find him. Chris will know what to do." The intensity in his voice made Inez hurry towards the ATF leader.
"Senor Larabee! Senor Larabee!"
Chris turned to Inez, catching her as she came close. "Inez? What's wrong?"
"Ezra said that he found the Crimson Fox, that she is here to steal something." Inez looked up at the clenching jaw of the ATF agent. "He said you would know who she is."
The remaining five members of his team had seen Inez's frantic flight and immediately gave him their attention. Chris quickly outlined his plan; they all nodded, and began making their way towards the security guards. So occupied with thoughts of Ezra's safety that he never noticed the slight stiffening of Mary Travis's body.
"You stay here." Chris swept all four women a steely glare, hoping all of them would listen. But he knew that at least one would protest, so Chris preempted her. "Ms. Travis, if you want to come, fine. Just stay out of the way." He turned to follow his men, not bothering to check if she was indeed following.
Alex, Inez, and Casey all laughed softly as Mary did indeed follow him, muttering obscenities centering on his ancestry. Once Mary caught up with Larabee and his men, they had reached the main security office of the Pallas Gallery.
"We've got an international thief in the building. One of my agents is on her tail, but he's going to need back up." Chris was in the middle of explaining the situation as the rest of his men easily got into the small cache of weapons in the office.
The head of security watched as the longhaired Tanner effortlessly picked the lock to the weapons cabinet. "But sir! We can take care of it. You don't need to worry about it."
Larabee got right into his face. The last two times the team had tangled with this particular criminal, Ezra had ended up with bruised ribs, the woman was a deadly fighter. And Larabee was not about to leave her to these rent-a-cops. "My man is out there with a dangerous criminal. We'll take care of it. You want to help? Block the exits."
The security officer swallowed thickly, nodding and began ordering his own men to follow Larabee's dictates.
Mary watched as all six agents strapped on at least two Sig Sauers and several clips of ammunition. Her eyes widened at the amount of weaponry that Vin was strapping onto himself. Three Sigs, an ankle pistol and he stuck another gun she couldn't identify in his waistband.
Meanwhile, behind her, Chris was busy watching the party through the security monitors. "There!"He pointed to one screen, the one covering the main exhibit hall. The picture showed a large crowd of people milling about the room, but Chris's sharp eye had found Ezra's face in a sea of hundreds. Chris turned to his men, issuing orders. "Get down there. Surround her. And, damnit! Don't destroy anything!" He shouted the last as they all quickly ran out, JD flipping him a smart salute as he followed his older friends out of the room. Chris sighed, turning back to the monitor bank.
Mary also watched the monitors, looking for a familiar face as well. She found Julia only a few yards away from the case holding the main attraction. La Piedra de las Epocas. She should have known that Julia couldn't have possibly pass up this opportunity. Mary stole a glance at Chris, wondering if he knew who he was looking for. Something had caught his attention. By the tightening of his jaw, Mary could tell it wasn't good. Before she could ask, he was already out of the room, leaving her no choice but to follow.
Ezra watched as the beautiful woman slid through the crowd. They were only a few yards away from the Piedra's case when she slipped on a pair of glasses.
Glasses? The Crimson Fox had perfect vision, why would she need glasses? His eyes widened.
The room was plunged into darkness as the electricity was completely cut. The Southerner could do no more than stand completely still. Panicking partygoers created a surging mass of bodies, making it impossible for him to get any closer to the gemstone or the Fox.
Julia knew that she would only have a maximum of ninety seconds before the emergency generators kicked in. With the electricity disengaged, neither the laser beams nor the alarms that guarded the prize functioned. Working quickly, Julia used the pen laser to cut open the case. Within seconds, she had the precious artifact wrapped in a velvet pouch. Reaching down, Julia secured it to the hook attached to her garter belt. With the form-fitting gown, no one would ever think of searching for the stolen rock there.
Just as she had predicted, the lights kicked in just as she straightened. Julia lifted her head, seeing that everyone was still too disoriented to notice her. Everyone that is, except one pair of green eyes that missed nothing. Eyes that went from her face to the empty display case and then back to her face once more. She cursed as he began pushing through the crowd. Julia scanned the room, recognizing the other men as her pursuer's teammates. There was only one way out.
"Excuse me... pardon me." Ezra struggled to keep up with the elusive thief through the throng of partygoers. She was only a few feet away, moving quickly through the crowd. Almost within reach but still far away to touch. At this rate he would lose her. And he wasn't going to accept defeat another time.
Mary followed the silent black cat making his way through the throng of people, melting through and around them like a mist. When the lights had suddenly flicked off, she had felt a moment of panic before a strong callused hand captured one of her smaller ones. Strangely enough she didn't panic. The touch was familiar, even though she had never felt it before. Chris.
He had tugged her closer to him and told her in a hushed whisper to stay still and behind him. His voice, next to her ear made her want to lean into the safety of his heat. Then the lights flicked back on and he was off again on Julia's trail. From where she was, Mary could see the missing gemstone and she prayed that Julia managed to escape the seven highly trained ATF agents. Otherwise, heaven help her friend, because Mary didn't think Julia could 'persuade' these seven men to let her go.
"Enjoying your date?"
Ezra heard the words right before she sent him sprawling. He had followed her into a deserted hallway. And that's where she was waiting for him. Delivering the snide comment, the Crimson Fox sidekicked him into the wall. But his mother had taught him to quickly bounce back. Jumping back to his feet, Ezra was ready for her next attack. He might not have Tanner's skill but he could still defend himself. Standish blocked and avoided nearly every punch and kick she threw at him.
"Why, my dear, are you jealous?" He said it, hoping to distract her. It didn't work. It only made her double her efforts.
"Bastard! Of what? Some Latin whore?" The Fox spat as she sent a punch to his throat.
Ezra moved to the left, grabbing her arm, sending her spinning away from his body. "Now, now, is that anyway for a lady to speak? And I do take exception to that heinous and unjustified remark about Inez."
"Unjustified? Unjustified? You're mine." To her complete horror, she had just admitted the depth of her feelings for the ATF agent. And by the delighted and smug smile, he knew it too. Realizing her mistake, Ezra took advantage of her momentary lapse, grabbing her, and fitting their lips together in a kiss.
The Fox fought against the kiss, she really tried, but she could feel herself melting into his arms, his lips, his body. She could feel his hands roaming her body, learning her curves, imprinting the feel of his hands into her mind. He surrounded her, caging the Fox in a sensual web of desire. Ezra buried his lips in hers tasting her sweetness, her bone-melting sweetness. He felt her arms wind themselves around his neck, pulling him closer. He too felt trapped by his desire, but he was a willing prisoner. The kiss went on for eternity, but in reality, only a few seconds.
"Ezra!"
The sound of the man's voice jerked the Fox from her sensual daze. She lunged back, green eyes flaring in realization that she had almost been caught because of a man. One who was here with another woman for that matter!
"Bastard!"
"No!" Ezra reached for her, unwilling to the let her go. In his desire, Ezra was vulnerable. The Fox, if nothing else, was a survivor. Lashing out, she kicked Ezra away from herself and into a wall. She only spared him a glance, then turned her thoughts to escaping with her dignity, the jewel, and her life intact.
Whirling, the Fox encountered a grim Chris Larabee, leveling a gun an inch away from her heart.
The Fox licked her lips, a seductive movement, calculated to distract the ATF agent long enough for her to get away. She inched forward, her body oozing sex and seduction.
"You wouldn't shoot little ol' me would you?" Her voice had taken on a Southern belle's breathless, flirty inflection.
The blonde man smiled down at her. "Maybe... maybe not. It depends."
She took the opening he left and sidled her body up against his tall hard one. From the corner of her eye, she saw the blonde head and angry blue eyes of her oldest friend. From the daggers that Mary was throwing at her, Julia realized that this must be Chris Larabee, the ATF team leader that had Mary's panties in a twist since day one. Julia sent a silent apology to Mary for what she was about to do. But a girl's gotta do what she's gotta do. The redheaded woman ran her hands up and down the plane of his hard chest, pressing her hips against his and breathing the lightest kisses across the stone-like line of his jaw. He was incredible; she could see why Mary wanted him so badly.
"Depends? On what?" she asked, looking up into crystalline green eyes.
He smiled again, wrapping one unrelenting arm around her slim waist, and lowering his head towards hers. Their lips were only a hair's breath apart; she could almost feel them against her own when he sealed her fate.
"It depends on how much you hurt Ezra." Chris could feel her body stiffening against his own as he bent a merciless smile on the much smaller woman. He tightened his grip on the cat burglar. "No one hurts one of my own."
The Fox wanted to remain stiff and unyielding in the harsh embrace but her self-preservation wouldn't let her. She let her body melt. Sliding her hands to his hips, she wantonly pressed herself against him, gently grinding her hips against his. She lifted her eyes, meeting his amused ones.
"No hard feelings?"
His smile was amused and ruthless at the same time. "Nope, none at all."
Mary Travis watched in fury as watched Larabee succumbed to Julia's charms. Bastard! Skirt-chasing, chauvinistic bastard!
And Julia! Julia knew about Mary's claim on Larabee. It was a line between friends you just didn't cross.
He's mine, damnit!
She watched as Julia grabbed Chris, grinding her hips against him. Mary wanted to scream; instead she backed out of the hallway.
CRASH!
Chris whirled, thinking of a possible accomplice. Easily tossing the now handcuffed Crimson Fox into his undercover agent's waiting arms; Chris grabbed the white blur. And found his arms full of struggling hellcat. Mary fought against the strong arms and the extraordinarily hard body caging her.
Chris easily held her. He had her pinned with her back to his front, one arm wrapped around her waist, trapping her body against his much stronger one. The other hand captured both her wrists, imprisoning them against her heaving chest. He held onto her tightly, savoring the feel of her softer body against his own.
"Why, Ms. Travis, were you that concerned about my safety?" Chris seductively breathed into her ear. He buried his face in her hair, breathing in the scent that had been driving him insane the entire night.
Mary froze, realizing that he was simply too strong. But unlike her long time friend, Mary didn't give the man a chance to take charge of the situation. She let her body melt against his. Mary dropped her head back on to his shoulder so that her lips were near the soft lobe of Chris' ear. She let her lips skim the tender skin there. Hearing his soft gasp, Mary smiled, delicately biting down on the sensitive lobe.
Unlike the Crimson Fox's attempt at seducing the hardened ATF agent, Mary's actions produced the desired results. His body tightened at the erotic sensation of her lips and teeth nibbling on his skin, but his grip relaxed. The moment she felt his arms loosening, Mary jerked herself from his embrace before she did something she would regret.
"Bastard," she hissed. Then she watched as he did something that was a sure-fire way to infuriate the reporter.
Chris smiled. A slow, damn smug, self-satisfied, conquering male smile.
Mary couldn't help herself. She quickly rationalized to herself that she was doing it for all womankind. No woman should have to put up with that smile coming from this man.
So she slapped him.
But she didn't count on him retaliating or his highly trained reflexes. Before she realized what was happening, Chris had her pressed flat against the wall, his body pressed against hers. He used their interlaced fingers to pin her hands near her shoulders, her legs trapped between his own. She could feel every corded muscle in his body. Every muscle in his body.
"Don't ever do that again," he whispered the words, his lips closer to hers than they had been with the Fox. She could almost taste his lips. The words were softly spoken, but the tone was dangerous, sending shivers up Mary's spine. Shivers of fear or excitement, she didn't know. So Mary did the only thing she could, she meekly nodded, not sure what she was agreeing not to do. But inside, she silently bided her time.
The sound of a cough-covered laugh brought the reporter and the ATF team leader's attention to the large group of people standing only a few feet away. Each and every one of them had an amused expression on their face. Mary could feel the heat creeping into her cheeks. Sneaking a look at Chris, Mary silently cursed. The damn man looked like nothing was out of the ordinary.
Bastard.
Chris gently pushed away from the temptation that was Mary Travis, raking his men with a hard glare. That glare settled on Ezra Standish, still standing with the handcuffed Crimson Fox.
"She the one keeping you up nights?" Subtle, Chris Larabee was not.
Ezra smiled faintly, nodding. When the woman of his dreams began trying to seduce his boss, Ezra had nearly had a heart attack. Watching the two of them locked in an embrace, he had wondered if either he or she had sustained a head wound during their fight. But then he realized that it was her last ditch effort to get herself out of trouble. Even while he abhorred the idea of her in anyone else's arms, Ezra had to admire her quick thinking. It really was a good thing that it took more than a beautiful face or body to tempt the imposing Chris Larabee and for that Ezra was grateful.
Chris watched as his agent winced slightly from the intense attack leveled upon him by the thief and shook his head. The things his men did for love... shooting each other in the ass, getting their asses kicked. It was depressing really. "Alex, Nathan, could you two look over Ezra? Vin, take care of the Fox."
Both healers came forward and began examining the protesting Ezra Standish as Vin easily took charge of the Fox.
"I'm fine! Please Alex, Nathan, I do not require your combined attentions!" Ezra exclaimed, batting at their hands.
Inez watched with exasperation as the Southerner refused the medical attention. She had heard how these men hated to be fussed over, but this was ridiculous! Even she, having no medical knowledge, could tell he needed to be check out.
"Ezra?" Inez's voice was soft and cajoling. Everyone watched as Inez slowly walked towards the now silent Southerner. Once she reached him, she stood behind him and placed her hands on his back, gently stroking it. "Por favor, Ezra, let Alex make sure that you really are sano?"
The Crimson Fox watched in absolute fury as Ezra submitted to the examination because of the Latin beauty's soft words. His friends watched in amusement. It looked like Ezra had finally found another person he couldn't say "no" to... the first being Chris.
"So, Chris, what are we gonna do with her?" Vin's voice brought Chris' attention back to the matter at hand. He watched as the Fox struggled briefly against Vin's strong grip.
"Her?" Chris slowly smiled, walking over to Vin's side. Reaching over, he ran his hands down her supple length, oblivious to the dagger-stares of both Mary and the thief herself. Smiling ferally, Chris slid one hand inside her dress and trailed it to the inside of her thigh. Gently tugging, Chris's hand emerged with a felt bag. Opening it, he revealed La Piedra de las Epocas. "She's going to jail."
"Agent Larabee! Agent Larabee!"
Chris turned towards the male voice, carefully slipping La Piedra de las Epocas into his breast pocket. He watched as Rainer strode through the crowd, a security detail behind him. Chris had been anticipating this meeting with the suspected criminal. He knew that Rainer wouldn't let the rock go without a fight and the ATF agent was spoiling for one after that heated incident with Mary. He had to work out his frustrations and outmaneuvering a criminal sounded like fun. "Yes, Mr. Rainer?"
"Agent Larabee, could we discuss this?" The man was anxious but still commanding.
"Discuss what, sir?" Chris could hear Buck snickering at his "dumb" act.
"I want my property back, Larabee."
"I'm sorry, Mr. Rainer, but as evidence in a theft we have to take it with us." Chris could see that Rainer was about to lose his temper and he had to wonder how a man who wasn't in control of his emotions could be a criminal mastermind. But his reaction could be indicative of another reason he wanted the pretty bauble so badly.
"I don't want to press charges. I just want the Piedra back." Rainer's voice was desperate and desperate men did stupid things, like getting into Chris Larabee's face. "If you don't give it back to me, I will take it by force if necessary."
Chris' smile was feral. "Go ahead," he dared the tycoon.
Rainer looked at the ATF agents, each one of them casually displaying their misappropriated firearms. All seven were in relaxed but alert stances. He could tell that they weren't afraid of gunplay. Throwing a glance at the gallery's security people, he could see that they were nervous. Unlike his own security people, they probably had never even shot a gun before.
Larabee watched the suspected gunrunner. Seeing the defeat in his eyes, Chris turned to his men, dismissing the angry millionaire. He led the way out and was halfway to the door when Josiah spoke.
"Chris, I'd be careful with him. He's desperate and dangerous."
"Why does he want it back so bad? It's not like we're going to keep it forever," JD piped up from Chris' other side.
"There's another reason he wants it back so badly," Vin spoke from behind Chris, one hand wrapped around the Fox's arm. Ezra was on her other side, also preventing her from escape.
"It might be prudent, gentlemen, if we took precautions," Ezra said as he scanned the room for possible problems.
Chris nodded. "Nathan, help Ezra with the Fox. Vin, Buck, go see what weapons you can get from the security. Pull rank, confiscate them, whatever it takes."
"Don't you think you have enough weapons?" Alex asked as she indicated her heavily armed lover. Vin just gave her this... look, before melting into the crowd.
Julia scanned the faces around her. For some strange reason she want to know these men that had finally managed to capture her. The Southerner, the one that captured her senses, was named Ezra and as she watched him with his teammates, she could see that they were more than just co-workers. They were his family. The family was led by the dark angel she couldn't seduce but at one point was eating out of her best friend's hand. The longhaired one seemed to be the second-in-command of the group, the dark beauty's lover, and the one had who shot Ezra in the butt. He was currently distributing the weapons he and the mustached man had acquired.
Chris looked up from the ungodly amount of weaponry and ammunition the boys had taken. Vin could definitely overkill the need for weapons. "Ladies, I'm afraid we're going to have to call a cab... "
"No!" Mary was not going to let them take Julia off by herself. When the seven were arresting her, Julia had indicated for Mary to not let them known about their relationship. Mary agreed, but she'd burn in hell first before she abandoned her friend. At the questioning looks, she hastened to explain. "I'm covering you, remember? This is a big bust! Catching an international thief while at a party."
Chris grunted in response, not happy. "Fine. Then the rest of you... "
The other three women exchanged looks. "Uh uh. No way. We're going with you," Alex said, acting as spokeswoman.
"What? Why?" Vin exclaimed.
Inez grinned. "We've haven't had this much fun in a long time."
"Which just means that we need to get a life," Casey muttered, but Chris heard her and sent her one of his "Larabee glares." She wisely took cover behind JD.
"Actually, it might be safer if they're with us, Chris. We don't know what Rainer might do to them if he's desperate enough." Nathan's voice of reason cut through the potentially disastrous situation. Nathan knew Chris. He protected those he considered his and he wouldn't think twice about tying up the women and leaving them in a closet if he felt that was the safest place for them. And while Nathan didn't know the women very well, he suspected that they wouldn't take to kindly to Chris's tactics.
Chris nodded his consent. "Let's get the hell out of here."
"Is it just me or did it get colder?" Alex hugged herself, shivering at the cold burst of wind that blew across them. Their party was waiting for the limousine to pick them up. The temperature had suddenly dropped and none of the women had come prepared. Alex smiled at Vin as he wrapped his tuxedo jacket around her bare shoulders. Turning her head, Alex saw JD do the same for Casey.
Ezra was torn. Offer his jacket to the woman of his heart or to the woman who was his date and friend? Inez saw the problem and solved it for him. "Senor Sanchez, may I borrow... ?"
"Of course, senorita. It would be my pleasure." Josiah shrugged off his jacket and wrapped it around Inez. He smiled when he saw how his large jacket nearly swallowed her small body. Inez grinned up at the giant. She had overheard Chris's comment and she could see the way Ezra looked at the beautiful redhead. She was probably the reason Ezra had been so discontented a few nights before at the saloon.
Ezra sent both Josiah and Inez a silent 'thank you'. Julia didn't know if she wanted his jacket or not. It was cold but she still smarted from his relationship with Inez. She turned to look into his green eyes, saw the concern there and accepted the coat with a small smile.
Chris pulled off his jacket and walked up behind Mary, placing it around her shoulders. He frowned when she shrugged it off. "Thank you, but I'm fine."
Chris didn't take no for answer. He simply wrapped it around her again, his arms encircled her, keeping the jacket in place. "Please keep it?" The soft request did more to sway her disposition than anything else he had done this night.
"Thank you," Mary quietly said, grateful that the car had arrived, for it was bitterly cold. It was surprising how cold it actually was and how quickly it got that way. But then again, this was Colorado.
The ride had only lasted a few moments when Vin noticed the car following them. Each man became more alert, checking his weapons.
"It's probably Rainer and his thugs," Nathan said as he carefully checked through the rear windshield.
"Ladies, I suggest you get on the floor." Buck quickly ushered the five women into the very center of the limousine while the other men took positions around the car. Chris was busy speaking to the driver, giving him instructions.
The first jolt was expected, but still frightening. It wasn't even that hard, but it was enough to sway and shuffle the limousine's occupants around. The driver sped up as shots were fired at them. The seven weren't returning fire. It was too dangerous; the other car was using automatic weapons.
Another hard jolt had everyone scrambling for a handhold. Julia cried out as she slid into the hard car door. Because her hands were handcuffed behind her, she had been unable to brace herself. Ezra was by her side in an instant. He quickly unlocked the handcuffs then grabbed her as the car took a corner on two wheels.
"Shit!" The driver had been so intent on the car chasing them that he never saw the icy patch of road.
They hit it at ninety miles an hour. The car began hydroplaning across the slick road. The last memory anyone had was that of a blinding flash of light.
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Chris Larabee opened his eyes and felt the heat against his skin.
Disorientation swirled his mind from image to image, replaying the last hours of his memory in a series of rapid pictures. In seconds it bled into him as surely as the slick wetness on his forehead indicating he had been injured: the fundraiser ... Mary's breath on his ear... the Fox... La Piedra de las Epocas... Rainer's men... the snow storm... car crash. God, they were in an accident! That memory jarred him back to clarity, lifting the fog in his brain with far more efficiency than anything else did.
They had hit hard and before the impact there was something else, something that did not quite make sense even though he knew his recollection of it had been accurate. Light, white blinding light that he had first believed to be the headlights of an oncoming car but then as his memory sharpened, Chris realized that it had not been coming at them. It had been all around them. He could not explain it and as he became aware of his surroundings, realized that it could wait for the moment because there were more pressing matters to contend with. He was in a car full of people who were involved in a high-speed crash and while he might have escaped unscathed so far he could tell, he could not say the rest for his concern.
Chris became aware of movement beneath him and soft warmth pressing into his chest that was not at all unpleasant despite the circumstances. He had lost his grip of the armrest at impact and went flying towards the floor. The women who already occupied that space were buried beneath the seven in the chaos that followed. Instinctively, he knew immediately who was beneath him because the churning in his gut that was very inappropriate for the moment and could only be engendered by one person.
"Mr. Larabee, as much as you might be enjoying this, do you think you can get off me now before you actually do get off?" Mary Travis said snidely from beneath him.
Figures. Chris frowned and retorted with a similar note of annoyance. "Don't flatter yourself," he retorted, pushing himself onto the seat once more.
"Oh Christ," Vin Tanner's voice groaned somewhere in the mess of tangle arms and legs. "I knew I wasn't dead. You two are still at it."
"This ain't the time for it," Chris growled, then addressed the others in a louder voice. "Is everyone okay?"
A series of groans flowed as they all attempted to disengage themselves from the untidy heap that they were presently compressed into. Chris saw Mary push herself up on her hands and knees, her blond hair freed from its confinement after the turbulence. She seemed all right but even her flippant manner could not hide the fact that she had been shaken from the collision.
Alex and Nathan, the healers in the group, naturally recovered faster and baser instincts kicked in immediately as they started asking around to see if there were any injuries. Even though Nathan was clutching his arm bruised when it had hit the hard interior upholstery of the door, his main concern was the others. Alex had to force him to remain still while she examined it. The doctor herself had escaped unharmed, except for a dark smear of color on her bare back where someone's elbow had obviously slammed into her during the impact when they had all gone tumbling.
Josiah helped Inez to a seat. The only injury she sustained was to the skin tight dress she had been wearing which had split along the side, since it was never intended to be put through the paces at it had when she was forced on her hands and knees before the crash. Unfortunately the split was wide enough to reveal that she was not wearing any undergarment except for a thong that made her crimson with embarrassment upon discovery. Fortunately, she still had Josiah's coat and she wrapped it around her waist but not before giving Buck another reason to lust after her.
As the ladies man gawked, Alex who had been sitting close by, noticed his roving eye, smacked him across the back of the head and hissed, "Grow up."
"Up ain't a word I want to think about right now," he grinned wickedly as he envisioned laying his hands on that tender piece of flesh he had just been admiring.
"You have no shame," she remarked and shook her head before turning her attention elsewhere, and in particular, to Ezra. He had been hurt prior to the accident, thanks to his encounter with the cat burglar Crimson Fox, and Alex was concerned the crash might have exacerbated his injuries even further.
"Ezra are you okay?" Nathan asked first, having the same thought in mind as Ezra sat up and slid back into the seat of the limousine, clutching his aching ribs.
"I am fine, Mr. Jackson," Ezra remarked, rubbing his neck as the question was put forward. He was aching but not so badly that he would consider it serious. Instinctively, he glanced at the Fox who had bore the brunt of his weight when he had tried to cushion her impact before the car had upended on its side and rattled them all around like beans in a can. She was disorientated and just as shaken as the rest of them.
"Hey... ,"JD said, peering through the narrow window between the passenger compartment of the limousine and the driver's seat. "I think the driver's hurt bad." He did not want to say dead even though it looked very much like it. The man's head was buried in the shattered glass of the windscreen with a spray of blood across the jagged shards that left no doubt as to his condition.
Alex was already kicking the door closest to her open and the twisted wreck of metal that the limo had been gnarled into did not make the process any easier. Chris, who was next to her helped with the attempt and with a sudden start, the door gave way under their weight and both of them tumbled out of the vehicle landing unceremoniously on the dirt.
Chris swore as he hit the ground and then realized something that drove all the annoyance of this entire situation away. Sunlight peered into his eyes and he squinted, forcing himself to gain some focus.
"We could not have been out that long," Alex stammered as she saw the same thing he did and started to feel fear. The others began emerging from the vehicle, coming to the same conclusion when they saw the position of the sun in the sky and felt heated air filling the back cabin of the limousine. Considering that it was a freak snowstorm that had caused this accident, the sudden shift in weather was bizarre to say the least.
Chris Larabee did not answer nor was he listening. He was not listening because they were not where they were supposed to be. He could almost accept that they might have all been knocked out long enough following the crash for it to be morning, but not this. His steely gaze moved across the horizon and saw not grimy streets or the familiar skyline of tall buildings, paved roads and glass skyscrapers gleaming in the light. What he saw now was nothing like that all.
The limousine was in the middle of open country, the kind of terrain that one saw in those old westerns he still liked to watch but would never admit to even under the threat of death. There were no signs of civilization as far as the eye could see, just raw, open frontier, with the sun baking the dry ground and sparse vegetation spread over an unyielding landscape that felt as merciless as it looked. The impossibility of what was before him could not be denied. This could not be and yet it was. He dug his patent leather shoe in the soil and felt the grinding sound of dirt that felt real and not like any illusion.
"Jesus!" Vin's cry of surprise sounded when he too tumbled out of the wreckage.
Chris continued staring because although it might seem to everyone else that he was always in control of every situation no matter how unexpected or hair raising it might to everyone else, this was possibly the one exception. When he stared enough at the scenery to convince himself that this was no nightmare or for that matter a dream, he whirled around to look at the limousine that only last night, had driven them through the streets of Denver while trying to evade pursuers intent on killing them. The limousine did indeed appear to be as wrecked and demolished as any vehicle involved in a high-speed collision. Unfortunately, the object upon which the crumple zone of the limousine had been fully utilized was not a wall or another car as Chris had originally believed, but a rather, large protrusion of rock which was not uncommon for these parts.
"Where the hell are we?" Vin came up along side of Chris, just as mystified as he stared at the scenery around him.
"Not in Denver," Chris deadpanned, unable to explain how this could have happened.
"He's dead," Alex declared, bringing their attention back from their startling change of geography to the driver whose head had smashed through the windscreen upon impact with the large boulder of near solid granite. Some fragment of the natural edifice had crumbled but mostly it remained intact and was more than a match for the vehicle that had crashed into it. The doctor had managed to pull open the driver's side door open so that she could reach the man, but the evidence of her eyes told her that he was beyond hope.
Chris and Vin frowned at the news but their focus was mostly centered on how they had come to be in the middle of what was almost desert country that looked nothing like Denver or for that matter, Colorado. Chris' gaze traveled across the plains and saw that they were the only living things in the nearby vicinity, which concerned him greatly. The limousine was going nowhere and with the exception of being well armed, had nothing else in the way of survival gear.
"This ain't possible," Vin stated the obvious. However, like the leader of Team 7, it was impossible for him to ignore the evidence of his eyes.
"It is, but it don't change that we're here," Chris frowned and started walking. He wanted to take a peak at the crest of the hill up ahead and see what lay beyond. He suspected they were in deep trouble but needed a clearer definition of exactly how much that was. "You coming?" He looked at the sharpshooter as he widened the gap between them.
"Where are we going?" Vin asked, as he hastened his pace to catch up, pulling at the top buttons of his shirt and loosening the rigid collar if he was going to do any walking. At least this place was giving him an excuse to get comfortable since he hated formal wear with a passion. Chris was making similar adjustments to his apparel, rolling up the sleeves of his shirt to his forearms and allowing his skin to breathe when he exposed his neck after undoing a few buttons on his shirt.
"Just doing a little reconnaissance," Chris answered shortly, then looked over his shoulder at Alex. The doctor was leaning against the side of the vehicle, still trying to reach the driver in the front seat to find out if there was a slim hope the man might have survived the crash. "Alex check everyone out, make sure they're okay," Chris barked, issuing the order.
"Yes Sir," Alex retorted sarcastically, wondering what he thought she was doing the past few minutes. Grim son of a bitch, she thought to herself as she continued to pull at the twisted hulk of metal that was the driver's side door.
"You get use to him darlin'," Vin called out to her as he drew further away, wearing a smile on his face meant only for her. "But it takes a long time." He grinned before turning away and took his place by Chris' side.
Alex watched him go for a few seconds, a wry smile on her face as she watched both men depart, before her attention was captured by Mary Travis emerging from the wrecked limousine with others not too far behind. All were eager to free of the metal wreck that had almost been their tombs.
"What's happening?" the journalist inquired as she stumbled out of the limousine. Anything else she was going to stay died in her throat when her eyes widened at the sight of where they were. She staggered next to Alex, her high heels completely inadequate for the terrain and used the side of the car for support as her jaw dropped and she was finally capable of articulating her astonishment. "Oh ... my... god. Where are we?"
"Welcome to the Twilight Zone." Alex shrugged her shoulders, just as bewildered.
"Goddamn! How did we get here?" Buck bellowed as he followed Mary and behind him JD slipped out looking just as astounded by where they were.
"What is this? Oz?" Casey grumbled, trying to pull up the bodice of her dress that had slipped to scandalous depths during the accident. "How long where we out of it?"
"Not long enough for this," Nathan remarked as he came out of the limousine, clutching his arm. "As it is I can't remember anything after the lights."
"Me neither," Josiah agreed. "And I wasn't knocked out, just a little dazed," the oldest of them replied as he helped Inez out of the car.
"Why are all you people standing around like this was a Sunday picnic?" Ezra Standish sarcastically announced himself, as he and the Crimson Fox were the last to emerge from the vehicle. "Is someone going to call for road side service or do we all intend to trek to the nearest gas stati... ." His words faded away as he saw nothing but sparse frontier wilderness before him. "We are not in Denver."
"That's what I like about Ez." Buck patted him on the back. "Always sharp as a tack."
Ezra threw Buck a scalding look and was about to make comment when behind him, the Crimson Fox made a timely appearance. "Jesus Christ. What the hell are we doing out west?"
"Out west?" JD looked at her, wondering how the Fox came to that conclusion. "How do you know we're in the west?" he questioned.
"By those two guys riding towards us." She pointed towards the distance in the complete opposite direction from where the others were staring.
All eyes followed her gaze and saw that she was right. Two men were riding towards them. While it was difficult to see their faces, it was easy to identify what they were wearing and they looked like something that had ridden out of a Zane Grey novel. Wide brimmed hats, one was wearing a jet black duster trailing the wind as he approached while the other appeared to be wearing a hat common to Indians scout as depicted in every western ever made.
"Maybe they know how we got here?" Buck replied, rounding the car and walking forward to meet the arrivals.
"I, for one," Ezra remarked as he followed the ladies man, "would like to know how this was even managed without us knowing, let alone being brought here, vehicle and all."
No one commented on that statement because it was very true. How they had come here was bizarre. They had crashed the limousine in Denver and now they found themselves some place else as if the entire vehicle had been transported to a completely different location with none of them being aware of any of it. At the very least, it was strange, and its very worst, it was damn frightening. However, none of it was as odd as when the two new arrivals approached close enough for their faces to become visible to everyone present.
"Hey," Casey exclaimed. "That's Chris."
"Chris?" Alex stammered in disbelief. She was sure she had seen them walking in a completely different direction and stared at the crest they had been heading towards when Chris had barked his orders at her and she had been tempted to flip the man the finger. Neither the leader of Team 7 nor Vin was anywhere in sight and as she tuned to the two men riding towards their merry little band, she count not deny that it was indeed Chris Larabee that was approaching, with Vin Tanner at his side.
"If this is that twisted son of bitch's idea of a practical joke, I am going to kill him!" Mary swore venomously.
"Chris!" Buck strode forward as the horses finally reached them and Chris Larabee dismounting from the saddle and Vin Tanner doing the same. "Goddamn, you bastard, I didn't think you had in you to pull a trick like this! How the hell did you manage it? You knock us out with some sleep gas or something when we got in the car?"
The man wearing Chris Larabee's face stared back at Buck. "Buck what are you doing here? What the hell is that thing?" he gestured to the car.
"That's very funny, Chris," Buck said still grinning. "Jokes over now. How did you do it?"
"You're supposed to be at the jailhouse on watch with JD," Larabee pointed out before noticing what his old friend was wearing. "What have you got on?" He looked at Buck's clothes strangely and wondered why his best friend was dressed like an undertaker.
"What have I got on?" Buck retorted. "I ain't the one dressed like Black Bart and what about you, Vin, ain't that coat killing you in this heat?"
"Better than that sissy outfit you got on," Tanner drawled with a faint smile.
"Mr. Larabee." Mary pushed herself to the front because she was sick of this nonsense. Her feet hurt, she wanted a bath and most of all she wanted to go home. "I am certain this sort of childish games are the norm with you ATF juveniles but I for one am not impressed. Where is the car and you better have one ready to take us away from this hellish place or I think I speak for everyone woman here in heels, when I say we will kill you if you don't."
"Mary?" Larabee looked her over and was unimpressed by how much of her was exposed for everyone to see. It took another moment for him to realize that the swell in her figure was absent and wondered if he had been mistaken because of the clothes his wife had been wearing. However, the woman before him had a perfectly flat stomach and looked utterly spectacular in her strange if somewhat scandalous clothes. "What are you doing here? You know you ain't suppose to be out riding with the baby and all." He came toward her and placed his hand gently on her shoulder.
"Have you lost your mind?" Mary snapped, pulling away from him. He was not going to get away for pulling this prank. There was a moment when Mary had been genuinely terrified that they had stumbled into something terrible and would reveal to no one just how relieved she was when she saw him riding towards them, with all indication that this was a planned ruse. "Baby? What baby?"
"Our baby," He stammered unable to discern what was going on. "The one we're going to have in spring?" Larabee stared hard at his wife.
"You're insane and I wouldn't have a baby with you even if you are the last man alive on this planet. If you think this pathetic attempt to impress me is working, I have news for you, Mr. Larabee, it is not," Mary snorted and started to walk away.
"Ouch!" Buck winced and then laughed. "I gotta say pard, you score ten for originality."
"I have to admit that you surprise me, Mr. Larabee," Ezra grinned. "I did not believe you had it in you to be such a magician to perform this feat of illusion. However, I might just remind you, we do have a criminal we need to take into custody?" He gestured to Julia who gave him a dark look of annoyance by the reminder that she had been captured.
"Ezra," Larabee strode towards him and said with nothing less than ice in his voice. "If I don't get answers from someone soon, I'm going to start shooting." He glared at the agent with nothing less than menace in his eyes and it began to dawn on Ezra that the man was not jesting but was rather serious.
"Vin, I think this has gone far enough," Alex sighed, tired by all this bickering. Some of them had real injuries that needed tending and she wanted out of this dress into something comfortable.
"Alex?" Tanner exclaimed as he saw his fiancée wearing silver on her skin in a dress so scant, he could see every sensual curve of her body as the material shimmered when she approached. "What are you wearing?" he managed to ask. "Everyone can see you! You're half naked!"
"You said you loved my dress!" Alex said, somewhat wounded that he was picking on her clothes when he was dressed like a reject from an episode of 'Doctor Quinn, Medicine Woman'. Man, she hated that show! Who would believe a lady doctor back in the Old West anyway? "Besides, you look like Grizzly Adams!"
"Grizzly who?" he stared back at her in puzzlement.
"Hey, what's going on?" a new voice asked.
They turned around and felt their jaws go slack from the utter astonishment of finding themselves standing before Chris Larabee and Vin Tanner, who were dressed as they had last seen the duo prior to their departure from the limousine.
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