Mr. Midnight

Mika's Note: Inspired by a song by the same name off of Garth Brooks' Scarecrow CD.  And before you ask, YES, I DO have an obsession with Oklahoma.  So there.

Thanks, Garth.

Rain on the roof and time on my hands

Trent sighed, looking out the window of the studio. Rain had been pouring down nearly all night, with only a slight break shortly after he’d arrived for his show. Fits my mood perfectly, he thought sarcastically.

The sound of rain on the roof and a cool breeze blowing always brought him back to that night, two years ago tonight. But no, he promised himself that he wouldn’t think about that any longer. Especially not on a night like this when the rain was pounding against his brain and there was entirely too little to keep him busy.

He shook his head and looked at the phone lines. Not a blinking light in sight.

It sure seemed quiet out there in radio land

But how could he not think about it? Or about her? When the lines were dead like tonight all he could do was spin records and fight the memories. No matter how hard he tried, he wasn’t ever able to get her – them – completely out of his head, and heart.

He’d invested so much into their relationship to just let it fall apart like it did. Trent was still convinced that he could have done something more, something that could have changed her mind that night. But what?

They call me at the all-night station/Make their special dedications

The first call of the night came in, breaking his reverie, just one more broken-hearted soul looking for yet another sappy love song to worsen their already miserable condition. Most nights, he wondered if he was performing a service or making life that much more unbearable for the already miserable, knowing that he’d never really know for sure.

“Evening, caller, what can I do for you?”

Sniffles filled his earphones, causing a mental eye roll on Trent’s part. “I, I need to hear a song,” the teary female voice said.

“Sure, what can I play for you?”

“Well, I don’t know, I need your help.”

And I do my best to play their request/When it's a desperate situation

“What’s the situation? If I can’t figure out something perfect for you, I know our listeners can.”

“It’s like this. You see, my guy and I, we’ve been together for four months now and he’s been cheating on me. I love him and,” sobs over came her suddenly and she couldn’t get past them.

Trent sighed, another one of these calls. Why can’t these girls get past the cheaters? Why do they always have to love them? Why can’t they see them for the dogs they were and just move on?

This was a desperate situation

But then, Via got past him, and he’d never cheated. Not once.

“It’s okay,” he comforted. “I know just the song for you. It’ll even bring a smile to your face, I promise.”

“Really?” she asked between sniffles.

“I promise.”

“Thanks.” He could hear a little bit of hope working its way back into her voice, a good sign.

“That’s why I’m here,” he told her before hanging up. But isn’t that Kenny Chesney? He smiled slightly at his own dumb joke. “And that song was about alcoholism, not cheating you dork,” he mumbled, pulling up the song he wanted on his computer.

“Our first request tonight goes out to all you suffering from some dog male doing you wrong. One day, they’ll learn. And if not, well, take some advice from this song and make them learn.” He shut off the microphone and cued up the song about an angry girlfriend taking revenge on her cheating boyfriend. At least he was right about the song making her smile; it always made him grin when he heard it. <Before He Cheats, Carrie Underwood>

I'm Mr. Midnight alone and blue

He’d taken this job a few months after his break-up with Via, his long-time love and high school sweetheart. She’d not wanted to listen to his pleas; she just said it was time to move on, to get past what they thought they had. What we thought we had. He’d never quite figured that one out. He still thought they had had something great.

The brokenhearted call me up/When they don't know what else to do

“Go ahead caller, you’re on.”

“Hey, Mr. Midnight, I need help with a song request.”

At least she wasn’t crying. “Okay, shoot.”

“My fiancé told me this afternoon that he wants to break off the engagement. He says,” and here she sighed heavily, “that he just isn’t ready, that he’s not sure he wants to settle down. I think he’s found someone else and is just afraid to tell me.” She got quiet for a moment and Trent thought she was going to cry. She surprised him by continuing in a stronger voice than before. “We’ve been together for years and, while I really don’t want to lose him, I don’t want him to stay because he feels he has to, you know?”

“I know exactly what you mean,” he agreed, knowing much too well what she was going through.

“So, do you have something that fits that?”

He nodded to himself; it was one of his all-time favorites. “I do. What I’m thinking is a contemporary remake of an old classic, I hope you like and that it helps. It helped me back when I was where you are now.”

Turning back to the glowing monitor, he found the song he was looking for. The deep male voice singing about freeing the one you love caught at his heart. Why tonight? He never understood how the listeners could always know what he was feeling; this last caller proved that much too well. His song choice proved that doubly. If being free is worth what you leave behind… <Goodbye Time, originally by Conway Twitty, remade by Blake Shelton>

Every song is a reminder of the love that they once knew/I'm Mr. Midnight can I play a song for you

All too often, like tonight, his song choices reflected his experiences, past and present. But then, you can only teach what you know, right? He lived in fear of the moments someone called with a problem he could relate to in such an intimate manner. This last caller was one of them. He’d freed the love of his life, given her the chance to go and search her heart and mind for what she really wanted. Two years ago, tonight, he’d given Via up forever.

The phone flashed a red light at him again. He sighed; he’d been hoping he could listen to the rest of the song before having to answer another call.

“Mr. Midnight. Can I play a song for you?”

“Yes, please,” she whispered into the phone.

"Caller on the line could you please hold on?"

Trent’s blood ran cold. No, it can’t be.

I recognized her voice the minute I picked up the phone

Via! It was Via! There wasn’t a doubt in his mind that it was she, even after all this time. Her slight Oklahoma drawl, the breathy quality her voice took on when she whispered like she was now. His heart leapt in his chest. Confusion warred with excitement and dread. It was her, it was her!

Should I tell her that it's me or leave it at a memory

“What can I do for you tonight, caller?” What do I do? Will she know it’s me? After all the late nights she spent sitting up, listening to my other shows on other stations, how could she not know it’s me?

Haven't been myself since the day she left/And I'm never gonna be

Trent never completely recovered from her leaving. She’d taken more than just a piece of his heart; she’d taken his hope and his dreams as well.

All the unanswered questions swarmed into his mind from long ago. What did I do? Why won’t you let me fix it? Is there someone else? Why, why, why?

I'm forever gonna be

He could still hear her non-answer echo in his mind. Trent, I just have to go, please understand. There’s nothing you did wrong, nothing you can change.

I'm Mr. Midnight alone and blue

He’d lost his job shortly after that. He couldn’t concentrate, couldn’t cope with the inanity of the callers he got daily. And then three days after she’d left, he’d gone off on a caller who’d been whining about her one-night stand who refused to be a one-night stand. That had been the final straw as far as his boss was concerned.

The brokenhearted call me up/When they don't know what else to do

An old friend had stepped in then, offering him this job thinking it’d help him get past his heartache. At first, he was skeptical, believing that it’d only make things worse. But the more nights he worked, the more calls he took, the more people he helped… Well, it had helped him.

It never surprised him how much a simple song could mean to someone. But the effect that one song could have, that was the thing that never failed to astonish him.

Every song is a reminder of the love that they once knew

And then the way that someone else’s request could play at his heartstrings at the strangest of moments that could bring him to his knees.

I'm Mr. Midnight can I play a song for you

“I don’t really have a song request, but I do have a request.” She continued to whisper, as if afraid of being overheard.

“Absolutely,” he was on edge, afraid and curious about what was on her mind so late at night.

Imagine my surprise when she spoke my name

“Tell him…” Her voice drifted off; he listened to her breathe for a moment, enjoying the silence and the imagined closeness between them again. He closed his eyes against the memories it brought back.

She said, "Could you tell him that I love him and I wish things could be the same."

“Tell Trent that I love him and that I’m, I was wrong. He’ll understand what...”

Then a voice I never knew Said, "Honey, who you talking to?"

“Baby?” The confused voice was faint but loud enough to carry past Via, across the phone lines and into Trent’s astonished ears. “Baby? Who are you talking to? Hang up the phone and come back to bed.”

“Shh,” she told him. “I will in a minute, I swear.”

Trent held his breath, waiting. Waiting for her to finish, waiting for him to leave, waiting for her to explain. Just waiting.

“I’ve, I’ve got to go…”

The line went dead, along with his hopes.

I'm Mr. Midnight alone and blue

He stared at the phone in disbelief. She was there, right there, just a minute ago, and now she was gone. Again. Just like back then.

“Well, that was awkward,” he laughed at himself and the situation itself. “So, for this Trent and all others like him, this is for you.”

The brokenhearted call me up/When they don't know what else to do

The perfect song had hit him like a rock, slammed into his frontal lobe at the speed of light. No thinking on this one tonight, no hesitation at all. It was divine intervention, he almost believed, but he knew it was just right.

For her.

For him.

Every song is a reminder of the love that they once knew

He closed his eyes and let the music wash over him and through him. Let the lyrics carry him away down into the memories he’d tried so hard to keep at bay.

The song said it all, it hit every nerve. It spoke to him in a way tonight that it never had before. She was, after all, always there, when he closed his eyes. <When I Close My Eyes, Kenny Chesney>

Apparently, he was there for her, too.

I'm Mr. Midnight can I play a song for you

A flashing red light lit up the darkness of the booth and he groaned, leaving his fantasies for his reality.

“Mr. Midnight. Can I play a song for you?”

-- MS 11/14/07

Onwards and Upwards

Now that I've finished posting Code Red: The First Mission, I'm working on editing the second installment that I'm calling Life Sentence (which may change, I suck like a cheap whore when it comes to thinking up titles).  It's all about babies and mistakes and things. LOL  This will probably take me a bit since I haven't touched any of it in awhile and I need to make sure it all connects.  ROFL  After opening up the first chapters, I see I wrote it August 29, 2006... so almost two years ago.  EEEEK! 

So anyway... I'm not sure what to post next whether it'll be Dakotah, a vampire story I revamped (ha ha) for a writing contest or if it'll be Mr. Midnight, a stand-alone song inspired by a song of the same name by Garth Brooks.  Anyway, not that you care, as long as it's something, right?  And now, I've got a request for more of my lusty vamp couple so I'll have to think on that as well. 

Huh.  Wonder if Deke knows Dakotah....

~Mika

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Epilogue

Mika's Note: Well, this is it.  Or is it?  This epilogue was written about the time I wrote chapter 2 or so.  Got a writing challenge to write a short story or poem based on the phrase 'a plate of sunshine'.  And well, inspiration struck.  I never had any idea I could write the end before I wrote the middle, but there you have it.  Thank you again, Genta.  :)  I owe you a lot ya know?  Hope you've enjoyed the ride so far. 

“I thought at first that having you around was going to be a trial,” he smiled at his brunette beauty. “And then I met you and knew you were going to be trouble from the get-go.” His smile widened. “I was right on that one.”

Ali stuck her tongue out at Blake, and grinned. “That’s a no-brainer, Cowboy.”

“Maybe.” He shook his head and looked back into her blue eyes. “But, it’s been worth it. I’m thankful to have met you. I wish you didn’t have to leave me.”

There was a knock on the door followed by a muffled, “Hurry the hell up, would ya?”

Ali laughed at Bryan’s impatience. “I don’t know if it’s just jealousy or if he really is that eager to get going!”

“I’d vote for the jealousy. He knows you’re mine now.” He ran his hand down the side of her face. “Or, at least I hope you are.”

Ali leaned in and kissed his cheek. “I can be anything you want me to be… or need me to be. All you have to do is ask.”

Letting out a breath he didn’t realize he was even holding, Blake drew her into his arms and held her close. Her head fit perfectly beneath his chin, just one more sign they were meant for each other. At 6’ 5”, he hadn’t met too many girls that he could hold like this and it felt so good to be able to do it now. He didn’t want to let go, ever.

The pounding at the door came again.

“I think that’s my two-minute warning, Cowboy.”

He flashed her that goofy grin, the one that won her over the first day they met. “Well, then I guess we’d better make the best of those two minutes, don’t you?”

In reply, she lifted her head and pressed her lips against his. He pulled her even closer than before and returned the kiss, happily. They stayed together, holding on, until Bryan’s impatience led him to kick the door finally.

“Could you give a girl a freakin’ minute to say good-bye you stupid leatherneck?” she screamed at the closed door. “Jeeze Louise, I swear I’m gonna smack you in about two seconds!”

Blake lost the fight to keep a straight face. Laughing, he pulled her back to him for one last kiss. “You’re just a little plate of sunshine, aren’t you?”

“What can I say? I try.” Blowing him a kiss, she left the hotel room, leaving him alone and with the promise of a time to come. Soon.

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 9

Mika's Note: Was going to save this for tomorrow, but it's the last chapter with just the epilogue left.  So, why not?  :)  I had titled this one Kerosene for obvious reasons.  Warning needed for this one: Poor Blake finally gets lucky. LOL  So, that'd mean what?  Sex?  YEAH!

“Cookie,” Blake whispered in her ear. She was leading them back to the hotel room he’d been given for the next few days, courtesy of the SMA and the casino.

Shivering from the heat of his breath on her bare skin, she shot him a quick glance. “No, two more minutes. I can see the elevators from here.” If I could only take you home with me instead of back to some damn hotel…

“Please,” he breathed.

Biting her lip, she fought the urge to do as he asked. “No, Cowboy, this ain’t backwoods Podunk. The police frown on having sex in the hallways here in the city. Even more so on the casino floor.”

He glared at her for a moment, and then the look softened. “You’re right. I just can’t wait two more minutes.”

Grinning, she responded lightly, “Well, you’re just gonna have to.”

Growling in frustration, he leaned in and bit her shoulder. “Okay, but you’re gonna pay.”

“I can only hope,” she thought as she slid her keycard into the elevator’s door.

~*~

“Open, open, open,” he chanted internally as he paced before the elevator door.

“Great performance tonight. I never get tired of hearing that song.” With a ding, the elevator opened and Blake drug her inside.

“Close, close, close,” he thought at the elevator doors. “No!” he screamed silently as an older couple approached the doors as they started to slide closed. Pressing his finger against the Close Door button, he mouthed an insincere ‘Sorry’ at the couple through the slit in the doors.

Ali gave him a look. “Now, that wasn’t very nice!” she mock scolded.

“I don’t care.” He cut off her protest with his mouth against hers. Blake backed her up against the rear of the elevator and tugged on her shirt, freeing it from her jeans. “I told you I couldn’t wait two more minutes,” he mumbled against her neck. His hands found her backside and pulled her against him.

A small groan of anticipation escaped her mouth at the combined sensations of his lips on her neck, his hands on her ass, and his hard cock pressed against her thigh. The elevator couldn’t reach her floor fast enough.

Mercifully, the elevator reached its destination and opened its doors. Ali extricated herself from Blake’s embrace and led him toward his room down the hall.

~*~

Blake almost allowed her to close the room door before grabbing hold of her again and kissing her deeply. Ali relieved him of his silly hat and ran both hands through his thick, dark curls, reminding her of the day they’d met and how he’d had the sexiest hat hair.

His hands caressed her back and wandered down past her waist. Cupping a cheek in each hand, he pulled her against him, causing her to rise to her tiptoes and deepen the kiss. He reached further down and grasped the inside of her thighs, lifting her off the ground and into his arms. A small, excited sound came from her as she wrapped her legs around his waist. One arm slipped around his neck and the other curled around his back.

“Hey Cowboy, wanna get lucky?”

“Do you even need to ask?” he breathed, teeth nipping at an ear.

Placing on knee on the bed, he eased her onto her back. Deft fingers quickly unbuttoned her blouse and exposed tanned flesh. Blake teased and tempted with light kisses down her neck and across her breasts. Sliding his tongue under the lace, he coaxed yet another happy sound out of her. Grinning his broad smile, he gently popped open the front clasp of her black bra, freeing her breasts.

With a sigh of relief, he nuzzled his face against her bare skin. “I have been waiting too long to get this close to you,” he mumbled, lips tickling her exposed flesh. Blake took one nipple into his mouth and gently teased it with his teeth and tongue. Ali settled back against the bed and let him enjoy his moment. She drug her nails up the length of his neck and into his hair. He shivered with the touch and took as much of her into his mouth as he could.

“Blake…” Her phone rang. She shifted her weight in an attempt to sit up and answer it.

“Don’t you even dare,” he threatened, pushing her back down onto the bed. “You are not going anywhere for a long, long time.”

“Promises, promises, Cowboy.”

Growling, he bit into the side of her neck, eliciting a squeal out of Ali. “That wasn’t very soldier-like, was it?” He chuckled and bit her again, causing her to arch her body into his. “Ah, good heavens, that’s more like it.”

Blake pulled at the button on her jeans, and tugged on the zip, revealing her firm, tanned belly to his anxious fingers. He slid his tongue into her belly button causing her to squirm wonderfully beneath him. Groaning, he reached his arms behind her and pulled her into a sitting position. Kissing her deeply, he pushed her shirt and bra off her shoulders, letting them fall free. Tossing her clothes out of the way, they fell backwards onto the bed.

Ali moaned as his lips caressed her nipples, left then right then back again. His light nips made her squirm. She wrapped her fingers in his hair, pulling lightly. He released her nipple and attacked her mouth again. The rough kisses only made her crazier. And by the need shining in his eyes, they weren’t helping him any either.

“I need you,” he whispered against her mouth.

She slid her fingers up his taut stomach and across his chest, detouring to brush across his nipples. “So, what are ya waiting for?”

He blessed her with that infamous, blinding smile before kissing her lightly on the lips. “Just waiting for you, love.” He sat up long enough to remove his shirt, and then eased back down, pressing his now-bare chest against hers. “Mmm… just as soft as I’d hoped.”

Laughing, she slipped her tongue into his mouth while reaching for his belt buckle. “Do you make love with your boots on?”

“Um, no…”

Well then, get rid of ‘em so I can get you naked.”

“Yes Ma’am!”

Ali laughed giddily as he stood on one foot and wrestled his boots off, one by one. Setting them aside, he tugged hers off as well, placing them beside his. “See how nice they look together?” he asked her.

“Suuurre…”

“You’re no fun!” he teased.

“Oh, I’m sure you’ll change your mind on that soon enough.”

“I hope to have reason.”

“Well then,” she teased back, reaching again for his belt buckle. Getting it undone, she quickly popped the button and slid down the zipper. She pushed him onto his back and straddled his waist.

Leaning forward, bare breasts brushing against his skin, she placed a chaste kiss on his lips. Blake traced the curve of her hips with his hands, stopping at the waistband of her undone jeans. When she leaned forward to kiss him again, he pulled quickly, exposing her backside to the hotel room.

“That was sneaky,” she mumbled, kissing him.

“No, it was desperation.” He flipped her onto her back and pulled her jeans the rest of the way off. Grinning like a sixteen-year-old on his first date, he tossed them to the floor and pinned her to the bed. “And now you’re gonna pay for making me wait so long.”

Slowly, he slid his hand along the inside of her thigh, slowing when he felt the heat of her desire. Kissing her gently, he pressed his fingers against her, easing inside. Ali gasped at the hoped-for touch, spreading her legs as much as she could while he was still over her. Moving himself to one side, he opened her up farther and found her clit. While working his fingers against it, he felt her get hotter, and wetter, almost immediately.

Moving his fingers in slow circles, watching her move to his rhythm, he positioned himself between her legs, sliding his tongue in below his roving fingers. Blake gasped at the way her body tightened as he entered her for the first time. He flicked her clit with the tip of his tongue and she screamed. His cock reacted happily to her enthusiasm.

Ali worked her fingers into his curls. Gasping with pleasure as his fingers and tongue switched spots; she moved her hips to meet his thrusting hand. Blake moaned against her body, moving his fingers and tongue against her until she pressed herself against his face, gripping his hair tightly. She rocked her hips against his hand, moving her clit against his tongue. He reveled in her orgasm when it hit, licking her dampness from his lips and fingers.

Breathing heavily, he positioned himself over her, looking down. “Boy, that was easy.”

“It’s been awhile, Cowboy,” she smiled and reached out to him. “And there’s something to be said for technique too.”

A faint blush colored his cheeks as he grinned down at her. “Well, ya know, I’ve never had any complaints…”

“You’re gonna get one in about 2 seconds if you don’t get your jeans off and get back over here.”

The grin turned to a leer and Blake quickly rolled off her. Pushing his jeans down and kicking them off frantically, he fumbled and nearly fell off the bed before he got them off. Disgustedly, he threw them to the floor.

Blake crawled over to his lover, kissed her deeply, tongue lingering in her mouth. Gently forcing her backwards once more, he regained his place above her. Bending down, he took her mouth with his, pulling gently on her bottom lip. She could feel the tip of his straining cock brushing against her belly; it was damp, sticky and leaving a trail on her stomach.

Ali reached up and took him in her hand. Blake groaned with the caress. She stroked him lightly, with the barest of touches, amazed that he could get any harder than he already was. He dipped his hips and moved with her, arms shaking with the need building inside him.

“Baby, stop… or…” his breath caught in his throat. She’d slid her hand along the length of his cock and squeezed at the base. Seeing the distress on his face, she let her fingers trail across his balls; they tightened in response.

“What. Did. I. Tell. You?” he growled through gritted teeth. Seeing the devilish look on her face, he bared his teeth. “So, that’s how ya wanna play then?” He loved the sparkle in her eyes, but tonight the playfulness was driving him to the edge. “Kiss me.”

“But of course,” she replied, eagerly. Enjoying the game and his intense reactions to her. She closed her eyes and let him have his fun.

The moment her lips touched his, he took one wrist and moved it above her head. Ali pressed her body closer against his, and kissed him harder. Smiling into the kiss, he moved her free wrist above her and grasped them both with one hand. Her eyes flew open and she glared at him. It was his turn to let his eyes sparkle mischievously. “I want you. Now. And you’re not gonna stop me.”

“Oh no?”

“Nope.”

“Allyson?”

“Huh?” They said together, stunned. Blake released her wrists and looked at the door, almost expecting it to break open at any time.

“Are you in there? I know this is your room.”

“Bazooka?” Blake wasn’t in the mood for this.

“Yeah?”

“This is my room.”

“Oh, sorry.” He thought for a moment and asked, “But is Ali in there?”

Ali had had it. “Bazooka!”

“Hey, you are in there! Can I come in, I need to talk to you.”

“Is the hotel on fire?”

“Um, no.”

“Then get the hell out of here.”

“But Caleb and Stone…”

“Blake? Do you carry a gun with you on tour?” She winked at his surprised face.

“Um, yeah. Actually three or four.”

“Good. Hear that Bubble Gum Brain?”

“Um, I’ll tell them I couldn’t find you.”

“Good boy.”

Chuckling, Blake kissed her cheek. “So, where were we?”

“Last I remember, you said you were gonna have me and I couldn’t stop you.”

“Mmm…” he murmured, nipping at her neck. “That’s right.” Taking his cock in his hand, he nudged her legs apart. Despite her words, she opened up for him, giving him a ‘hurry the heck up’ look as well. Taking the hint, he took a deep breath and entered her.

He plunged his tongue into her mouth as he pushed his erection into her body. Ali twined both hands in his curls, raising her hips to meet his. She gasped as their bodies met, feeling like she was drowning in his passion. Blake too, was barely holding his head above water, letting the waves of pleasure bury him completely.

“Ali, baby,” he whispered between kisses. “I’ve waited so long.”

Biting his bottom lip, rocking her body against his, she just smiled. “And good things come to those who wait, right?”

“Wrong. I’ve waited too long and now I’m gonna explode. And too soon.” He pounded his hardness into her, forehead to forehead, breathing hard, stealing kisses as fast as he could, his hands squeezing her backside, pulling her towards him. She lifted her hips, giving him better access, allowing him to thrust harder and get deeper than before. Ali couldn’t pull her gaze from his. Like he said, they’d waited too long. And now they were both going to combust.

Laughing a throaty laugh full of promise, she kissed him deeply, reveling in the feel of his cock slipping between her thighs, the sight of his eyes losing focus, and the intensity of his orgasm as he came, hard, throwing his head forward, and gasping for breath.

He collapsed on top of her, desperately trying to slow his racing heart. “Oh my…”

She giggled. “Mmm… oh my is right.” Ali kissed his shoulder and wrapped her arms around his broad chest. “And I’m going to have Cowboy-sized hand-shaped bruises on my ass for the next week to prove it.”

Blake laughed that all-American-male laugh that made her insides tighten with desire. “Well then, we’ll have to make sure you have a matching set then, once Round Two starts.”

“I think I like the sound of that.” Grinning like a schoolgirl, she met his kiss halfway. Their lips had barely touched when there was an insistent pounding at her door.

“Allyson, um, the hotel still isn’t on fire, but if you don’t show yourself soon, um, I think Caleb and Bryan are gonna beat this door down.”

“Crap. I…”

Blake kissed her gently. “I know. I don’t like it, but I know.” He kissed her again and pushed up into a sitting position. “I don’t want to be the reason you get into trouble.”

“Too late, Cowboy. You’re already the reason.”

He grinned that sexy grin so laden with promise. “Well then, I don’t wanna be the reason for any more trouble.”

“Deal. Now let me up.”

He moved off of her legs and watched her dress and then disappear through the door. Sighing, he laid back down, inhaling the scent of their sex on the sheets. Cuddling her pillow against his chest, he wished to all that was holy that they could find a way to make this work.

If only…

Swallowing the thought before it could be spoken, he drug himself out of bed and into the shower. Rinsing, drying and dressing as quickly as possible, he let himself out and wondered, “What next?”

The ring of his cell phone answered that question for him.

“Yeah?”

“Mr. Matson, this is Caleb.”

“Yes sir, what can I do for you?”

“I think you and your fellow musicians are safe for now. We would like you to meet us down in the convention area of the hotel. We have a temporary command center set up down here and would like to debrief you.”

Blake could hear some giggling in the background and smiled, thinking of how Ali’d react to a comment like that. Been there, done that, got the T-shirt.

“Excuse me one moment,” Caleb covered the mouthpiece with his hand and yelled a muffled, “Shana, that is not what I meant and you know it!” He huffed angrily and returned to the phone. “Do you need directions, Mr. Matson or are you familiar with this hotel?”

Blake grinned, understanding immediately why Ali and Shana were so close. They were just alike, it seemed. “No, no that’s okay.” He was trying to hold back the laughter and failing miserably. “I think I can find my way.”

“Good. See you in ten.”

The line went dead and Blake shook his head. “At least I might get a chance to say goodbye now.” He hoped. Desperately.

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 8 Interlude

Mika's Note: Jokingly subtitled Okay, Make Me.  LOL  Can we say conscience easer?

“Shana,” Ali whispered, grabbing her friend’s arm, “Help me!”

“Help you?”

“Oh gods, Blake gave me five minutes and…”

“And then he’s gonna rip your clothes off?” She grinned knowingly.

“Something like that.”

“So what’s the problem?”

“The problem is that there isn’t one…”

“So?” Shana was confused.

“He and Leslie, technically, are still together!”

“With the way she was hanging off Bryan all night, I doubt that.”

Ali sighed. “I agree but…”

“But nothing. If she’s sleeping with him, Blake’s more than fair game. Besides,” she patted Ali’s arm, “I didn’t once see or hear her looking for him. Go find your man and make him yours. Finally.”

“Yeah, I’ve been way too good for way too long. I’ll deal with the guilt after the afterglow has faded.”

Shana covered her mouth and laughed. “There’s my girl!”

“Uh-oh…” Ali sighed. “Here he comes.”

“And he looks… determined.” Shana laughed harder. “Um, is saying ‘have fun’ necessary?”

“No!” she stage whispered, intent on doing just that.

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 8

Mika's Note... SOOO close now, I can taste him...er it.  Yeah, the end.  LOL  This was originally titled Don't Make Me after a brand new song (at the time) and it actually fit. LOL  I still think this part needs some real work, but I'm at a loss.  :)  And now you get to meet one of my favorite characters out of this series - Paulo.  :)

Ali walked the perimeter of the building alongside the coordinator of this year’s SMA awards show. Despite the fact that she should be paying attention to this man, she couldn’t help but let her eyes wander in search of Blake. And where her eyes roamed, her mind followed.

“… will arrive shortly.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t get that last part.”

The coordinator cocked his head slightly, measuring her mentally. “I was saying that not everyone has arrived yet, but will arrive shortly.”

“Do you have a list of those who are currently here?”

“Of course. It has been turned in to your Head of Security.”

“Head of…” Ali’s voice trailed off as her eyes met Caleb’s. “Yes, of course. Thank you for your time, sir.”

“You’re very welcome. We’re quite attached to our musicians, so we appreciate your every effort.”

“No problem. I’m quite attached to one or two myself.”

She watched him retreat and quickly scanned the area again. Damn! Still nowhere to be found.

“Looking for someone, Lieutenant?”

“Nope, just scanning the area for possible threats, Sarge.”

“MmmHmmm...”

Ali allowed her eyes to sparkle as she frowned at him; Caleb just laughed. “It’s so good to have you around again, my dear.”

*~*~

“Okay folks,” she said loudly, “I understand that tonight is just a rehearsal but the fact of the matter is, disaster can and will strike at any time. In all likelihood, it will be tomorrow, so that the threat is televised. But we can’t be too cautious until then.”

Ali’s friend and co-conspirator, Shana stepped to the podium beside her. “My associate, Ms. Hughes, and I will be heading the security for tonight’s rehearsal and tomorrow’s show. Should you see or hear or even feel something unusual, please let us know ASAP. Any questions?”

“Yeah,” came a familiar, sexy voice, “are ya available for body guarding?”

Shana and Ali glanced at one another and grinned. “All depends on who’s body I’m guarding, Cowboy. But seriously, yes, the firm is available 24/7 for any of your security needs. Now, if we’re finished, you may commence with the rehearsal.”

*~*~

“Ahh… I am so happy to be out of those freaking heels!” Combing her wavy brown hair with her fingers, she caught the bartender’s eye. “Another round, please.” He flashed her a killer smile with lots of white teeth and set to making two more margaritas.

“You make a lousy blonde, ya know.”

“Gee, thanks. Just what I needed,” she teased. “Main reason I washed that crap out as soon as I could. Not that I won’t have to go blonde again tomorrow though.”

“You’d make a great redhead though.”

Ali laughed at the thought of that. “I’m just surprised you-know-who recognized me in that getup.”

Taking a drink of her fresh margarita, Shana grinned. “I don’t think it was your face he recognized.”

Ali raised her eyebrows in question.

“The man was staring at your backside so hard, I was afraid your pants were about to catch fire!” When her partner nearly choked on her margarita, she sobered slightly for a moment and then asked, “So, since you’ve been around all this for awhile, I’m sure you’ve kinda gotten to know some of the music they were playing tonight, right?” At Ali’s nod, she continued. “So, can you tell me who that hunk was singing that ‘Why So Long Gone" song?”

“Ahhh… that studly, unshaven cutie pie.”

“Yeah, that’s the one!”

“That’d be Billy Tatum. And if my eyes aren’t totally blurry, I think he’s coming towards us as we speak.”

Shana swiveled quickly in her barstool, nearly falling off and onto Billy’s chest. “Oh my god…”

Ali just grinned.

*~*~

“Billy, this is Ali and…”

“Shana, Blake.”

“Ah, that’s right. I’ve heard a lot about you.” Noticing Shana glaring at Ali, he interrupted himself. “No, not from her. From the other two.”

“Other…”

“Albie and Bubble Gum Brain.”

“Oh, then now I’m REALLY mad!”

Blake honored her with one of his all-out smiles. “It’s not that bad, really. Can we join you?”

“What a stupid question!” Ali responded, patting the seat beside her. “Make yourself at home.”

Billy looked at Shana and smiled. Then, looking more closely at Blake’s companion, asked, “Weren’t you a blonde earlier?”

“Yeah, but it’s a long story…”

“And one you can tell them at a later date.”

Shana sighed and Ali lowered her head to the bar top. “Good Gods, why me?”

“Gentlemen, please say goodnight. These ladies have a long day ahead of them tomorrow.”

Ali gave Blake a pleading look and got off the barstool. Growling at Caleb, she blew her cowboy a kiss and stalked off.

*~*~

“Well, today’s the big day. Keep your eyes open.”

“Absolutely, boss!” Albert chimed in.

“Yes ma’am!” came Bazooka’s reply.

“Give me strength,” she muttered, “on some beach… somewhere.” Louder, she instructed, “Come on, dorks. Let’s go.”

They separated, each taking a different direction. Ali headed backstage while Albie took the seating area and ‘Zook went outside. Starting back by the dressing rooms, she began her rounds.

“Normal, normal, normal,” she mentally checked things off her list. “Normal, not so normal,” she mumbled as she came across one of the genre's more interesting duos teasing a young newcomer before the big show. “Normal, normal, nor-uhhhh….”

A large, sweaty hand clasped over her mouth while another arm wrapped around her waist and pulled her into a dark dressing room. Ali started to struggle until she saw the familiar bow and arrow tattoo on the forearm of her captor just as the door shut behind them, killing all light.

“Damn it, Blake…” she began to chastise, being cut off abruptly by his tongue in her mouth.

“Shut up,” he mumbled, breaking away momentarily, “I’ve missed you and we never got a chance to get started last night.”

“Please, just tell me this is your dressing room.”

“Sure is.”

Pressing her back against the door, he maneuvered his tongue back into her mouth and kissed her with all the pent-up passion of the last few months. She was just starting to relax into his embrace when she noticed something blinking just out of sight.

“Blake,” she murmured, pushing him back slightly. “Silly question, but you don’t have a razor or anything plugged in over that way, do you?” She turned him in the direction of the blink.

“No, now let me…”

“Not now, out!!” She pushed away from him shoved him out the dressing room door as fast as she could. “Quick – go find Albie – he’s out in the seating area. Please!”

Seeing the fear in her eyes, he obeyed. The idea that she could have radioed him at any time never crossed his mind. He ran for all he was worth.

Relieved that she’d gotten Blake out of the danger zone so quickly, she radioed Bazooka and informed him she’d found something suspicious. Grabbing two security guards, she instructed them to block off the area as fast as they could and to evacuate anyone already in the adjoining rooms.

While security did its job, she went back into Blake’s dressing room and pulled the make-up table away from the wall carefully. And there it was. Plastic explosives attached to the back and leg of the table. The detonator had given it away.

“It’s me,” Bazooka called out as he came inside, closing the door carefully. “Where is it?”

“Here.” She pointed and got out of his way. This was his area, not hers.

“Huh. How’d you find this so quickly? With the lights on it would’ve been pretty hard to spot.”

“Yeah, but with the lights off, it was pretty obvious.”

“But why would the…”

“Just disarm the damn thing, please?”

“Nice evasion tactic there, girlie.”

Bazooka was halfway through disarming the bomb when the door opened. “Hey babe, you were looking for me?”

Ali looked up and her jaw dropped open. “Get him out of here!”

“But…” Blake began.

“Crap! Allyson, why didn’t you TELL me there was a bomb?”

“Because, I figured you were smart enough to know that I sent him to find you for a reason! I could have just called, ya know? Now, out!”

Albie grabbed Blake by the arm and drug him back out to safety.

*~*~

“I don’t like her in there where there’s a…”

“Shh… not so loud! Besides, it’s her job. She’ll be fine.”

“I still don’t like it.”

“I don’t like it either, but I’ve long since given up telling her so.”

*~*~

Ali turned at another intrusion. “Albie, I said…” She paused when she saw the dark-haired cutie in the doorway. “Shit! Paulo! You…” she jumped up as he slammed the door shut and took off.

“Who?” Bazooka queried.

“Paulo! Keep working, I’m going to get him.”

She was out the door and hot on the terrorist operative’s tail in seconds.

*~*~

Paulo ran full out down the corridor, pushing celebrities and peons out of his way as he went. Smacking into Rogan, he stumbled. As he righted himself, their eyes met briefly. But long enough.

“Oh no, not you, you bastard!” Albert grumbled as the other man sucker punched him and took off again.

“Stop him, Albie!” Ali screamed.

Attempting to regain his footing after the punch to the stomach, he left Blake staring while he pursued the bomber. Ali was close behind. Down the corridor and across the common area they chased him. Paulo pushed through an opening that led to the stage.

“Go that way,” Albie pointed off to the left. “I’ll go this way and we can sandwich him.”

Ali nodded and took off. She landed on the stage just as Paulo appeared out of the darkness. Putting her all into the leap, she launched herself at him in a full-body tackle, taking them both to the ground. Wrestling her one-time lover and sometimes informant onto his chest, she bent one arm behind him and locked his wrist into a cuff. Albert slid to a stop beside her, panting.

“Nice tackle. Play much football?” he teased, helping her wrench Paulo’s other arm into the cuffs.

“Not since you took my charge from me.”

“Ah, so that’s what you two were doing in the hotel room that night. I see…” He clapped his hands together, laughing.

Growling, she replied, “Just help me get him up.”

*~*~

Caleb arrived on the scene momentarily. “Good work, you two. Bazooka’s still working on that bomb, but he’s making progress.” Two of Caleb’s men came and hauled Paulo away. “Lt. Rogan, damage control, please. Lt. Hart, go back and assist Bazooka. He doesn’t give you any lip.”

“Yes sir,” they replied together, snapping salutes and heading off.

*~*~

“Hey ‘Zook, Caleb sent me to help. Need a hand?”

He grunted his usual reply and went back to work. “Hand me that, would ya?” He waved his hand in the direction of the toolbox.

“Sure,” she replied sarcastically. “Luckily I know what that is.”

“Thanks.” He fiddled with the bomb again. “Ooops.”

“Um, oops?”

“Yeah.”

“Great.”

“Sorr-ree”

Bazooka leapt from his crouch onto his partner, shielding her from the blast that followed seconds later. Once the dust had settled, several pairs of curious worried eyes looked in.

“What the hell?” Caleb.

“Oh gods, Bazooka! The GREEN wire! The green one!” Albie.

“Oh holy hell!” Shana.

THUD! Blake.

“Aw, crap.” Ali. “Is he okay?” she asked, brushing plaster and bits of make-up table out of her hair.

Kneeling beside him, Shana gave him a cursory inspection. “Well, he seems to be alive, at least. That’s a good sign, right?”

“I’d like to think so.” This from an unfamiliar voice.

Ali and Shana looked up from Blake’s pale face into a stubbly one with sultry blue eyes. “Hey Billy, fancy meeting you here,” Ali teased. For the first time in her life, Shana was speechless.

Blake opened his eyes and smiled. “You’re gonna kill me, I think.” The smile widened. “But I think I’m gonna like it.”

Blushing, Ali helped him up.

“So,” Bryan announced, striding to the front of the crowd. “You think we oughta get this party started?”

Blake outwardly gaped at Leslie hanging off Bryan’s arm but inwardly rejoiced at the possibility of being rid of her. Even if only temporarily. Catching Ali’s eye, he winked.

Invisible

She sat and watched them talk back and forth, over and around, but never directly to her. It was infuriating but then, she’d never really felt as if she had all that much to say anyway. So why start now? Sighing, she stood, tired of trying to fit into the conversation and constantly being ignored and trampled over.

Mirah lifted her tray of untouched food and moved to the trash can. Dumping it all in, she sighed again, too distraught to eat but not wanting to waste either. “One day won’t hurt,” she muttered to herself and moved out of the break room and into the office proper. Looking at her watch, she saw she still had forty-five minutes until lunchtime was over and she could go back to her desk. In forty, she could probably get away with going back, but not so soon.

Deciding to get out of the stuffy office, she went down the stairs and out the front of the building into the rain. The rain never bothered her much, so she stepped out into it willingly, even happily. She wore no makeup, so there wasn’t an issue there. And her hair? Well, it was a joke on its best day so there wasn’t any concern there either. Mirah wore it straight and short and liked it that way. Her only concern was for her glasses. Water spots always were trouble.

She stood, allowing the rain to drip down her face, smudge her glasses, plaster her hair to her face. It was cleansing and pure, refreshing from the summer heat. Washing away her desperation, her solitude, and her frustrations.

For the moment.

~*~

And that’s how I picture myself – standing in the rain, smiling, happy, and alone. Invisible.

I am Mirah, and I am the mad secretary. This is my story.

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 7 Interlude

Interlude: Note to Self (cc: Shana)

From: crazyalirae

To: Scarlettfire

Subject: Note to Self

Well, since you seem to know me as well as I know myself…

I like guns. And crossbows. And weapons. And… Well, I like ‘em a lot… I think I have to so I can do my job, but hunting? Noooo way. So whaddaya do when the hottest thing walking tells ya he wants to take you into the woods and shoot fuzzy creatures? And feathered ones too? Eeewwww….

Note to self: Get a grip.

But seriously, taking him into the woods: good idea. Killing things: bad idea. Maybe we can fish? I can deal with that.

Another note to self: Get a life.

Maybe I’ll just stay home, clean my guns and try and intimidate him? Won’t work? Didn’t think so. I tried. Only one option left…

One last note to self: Get a new boyfriend.

(NOT AN OPTION!)

Back to the drawing board, I guess…

Ali

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 7

Mika's Note: Have a few spare minutes and thought I'd post an extra chapter since I know Robin has nothing else to do on her vacation but read my blather. LOL  Getting close to being done.  About 2 or 3 more chapters and an epi.  Oh, and that middle scene?  It's quite the joke amongst the group now... Poor Zooka.  :)

Allyson looked up from her laptop and smiled at the suit standing before her. “Can I help you, sir?”

“Yes, I think you may. I was supposed to meet a young lady here named Jayne Allmann from Messina Security. The description I was given makes me think that would be you?” He looked her over, noting the long, blonde hair and green eyes.

“James Humbolt?” she asked, smoothing her dyed hair.

“Yes, ma’am. Pleased to meet you.” She took his offered hand in a firm grip and motioned to the unoccupied chair opposite her.

“Please, have a seat, Mr. Humbolt.” She waited for him to get situated and then began the same spiel she’d been giving for the last ten days. “There have been a number of incidents occurring around the country at various artists’ shows this year. To date, no one has been seriously injured, but we suspect that it’s only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured, or worse.

“My company has been hired by the Southern Music Association to provide extra security at this year’s awards show this coming October.” She handed him a thick folder from her briefcase and continued, “This is some information on our company and some ways for both the record companies, and the artists themselves, to keep everyone as safe as possible. We are currently deciding on the best course of action for the night of the event and will be in touch with everyone as soon as we know what that course of action will be. Until then, can we count on you and the artists your label represents to do all they can to not attract any undue attention to themselves?”

“We will do our best, Ms. Allmann, but you know how celebrities can be, I’m sure.”

“Of course,” she agreed, placating him. “Thank you for your time.”

~*~

“Report, Bryan. How’s the assignment going so far?”

“Very well, Caleb. No signs of insurgency or other trouble. Been pretty quiet to tell the truth.”

“Good, good. When do you anticipate your arrival in Las Vegas? Recent intelligence has led us to believe that the Brotherhood’s big strike will be on the night of the award show, as we had anticipated.”

“We will arrive the day before, as planned. Ms. Morgan will return to her home just outside Nashville and I will accompany her. From there, we will proceed to Las Vegas, NV, as planned.”

Caleb nodded to himself. “Good plan. Keep me informed.”

“Absolutely. Bryan out.”

Caleb put the phone down and shook his head. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d think Lt. Hart was right about him. This time.”

~*~

“Albert. Dave. What’s going on you two?”

“Not much, Caleb,” Albie reported. “Had a bit of trouble that turned out to be nothing.” Looking at his partner, he continued, “We took care of it and are on our way to the next stop as reported earlier.”

“What kind of trouble?”

“Nothing to worry about,” Bazooka blurted.

“Oh?”

Sighing, “There was a misunderstanding. ‘Zook has been inspecting everything within reach for bugs and bombs and there was, um, an… accident.”

“Accident?”

“Yeah.”

“More info please, Rogan. What kind of accident?”

“Bazooka kinda blew up Mr. Matson’s guitar case.”

“And how did THAT happen?”

“I thought it was rigged.”

Caleb slapped his forehead. “And what lead you to that belief?”

“It was ticking.”

“That’s because I left my watch in it, you idiot!” came a muffled shout from the background.

“Was that Mr. Matson?” Caleb asked, not really wanting an answer.

“Uh… yes,” they replied in reluctant unison.

“Why does he sound like that? All distant and… odd?”

“Ummm…” Bazooka began.

“Well, ya see, Caleb, we had to um, restrain him. For the better good.”

“Who’s better good?”

“His,” Bazooka replied.

“’Zook’s,” Albie countered simultaneously.

“God help me,” Caleb muttered. “Untie him, now, and be more careful! Lockhart out!”

Rubbing his temples and reaching for some aspirin, Caleb sighed heavily. Turning to the presence behind him in the command room, he groaned. “And all this time, I was worried about Allyson getting cozy with him.”

“At least, if she’d tied him up,” Shana began, “it would’ve been with his eager consent.” She ducked and ran as Caleb threw the aspirin bottle her direction.

~*~

Ali adjusted her hair and blinked at the annoying contacts. Sipping her iced mocha, she flipped her laptop back open and accessed the web. Smiling at the beauty of free wi-fi connections, she accessed her e-mail, working on her daily report.

“So this is the nature of my life for the next several weeks. Playing patsy to a bunch of self-important bigwigs,” she grumbled unhappily. “Ferreting out spies and traitors is important to the safety of the nation,” she thought then of Blake, “and to the fate of country music as we know it.” Laughing at the sarcastic tone of her thoughts, she poured herself back into the report Caleb was so eagerly awaiting. But she couldn’t help sparing another thought for Blake.

Pulling out her cell phone, she sent him a simple text message:

What’s up, Cowboy? Having fun without me?

~*~

“Fun?” he asked himself. “Not likely.” He snapped his cell phone shut and called out, “Al? Bazooka? I’m gonna go sit on the balcony. I hate being stuck inside all the time.”

“All right. Just stay out of sniper range.” Albie called back.

“Lemme have my bow and you won’t have to worry about it.”

The boys looked at each other, surprised. “Nice,” ‘Zook said appraisingly.

Opening the sliding door, Blake muttered, “Geez, I need to go hunting.” Or just shoot something.

Once on the balcony, he flipped his cell phone back open and dialed a number that was quickly becoming familiar. “Hey honey, how’d ya like to spend a week in the woods with me?”

Ali smiled into her phone. “Just you, me and your gun?” she teased.

“Naw, I prefer a bow to hunt with. Although there’s nothing wrong with a good shotgun or rifle…” his voice trailed off. “That’s not quite what ya meant, is it?”

Laughing, “A bit slow, are we?”

“Yeah. I need you back before these two blow anything else up.”

“Oh no… what did Bubble Head do this time?”

“How’d you know it was him and not the other one?”

“Explosives expert, remember?”

“Ahhh… that does explain things.”

“Yes, like the lack of common sense. What’d he exterminate this time?”

“My guitar case.”

“Oh gods… your guitar wasn’t still in it, was it?”

“Thankfully no…” Blake walked away from the sliding door and leaned one arm against the balcony railing and looked out over the city. Grey clouds had moved in and a cool breeze was blowing his hair back slightly. “And I do have others, but this was my favorite.” The smell of rain was in the air and a shadow of a full moon hung over him. He looked up at it wistfully.

“Well, at least your guitar was safe. That’s a plus.”

“I guess. But my new watch was still in the case where I’d left it. Ticking loudly, apparently.”

Ali slapped a hand over her mouth, knowing all too well what had caused Bazooka to blow the thing up.

Blake blew out a sigh. “It’s not that funny, Ali.”

“Oh, yeah it is,” she giggled.

“And to think, I was standing here, watching the moon and clouds, missing you.”

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 6 Interlude

Mika's Note... OOOH... only one interlude and one chapter for this one! LOL  Just when you were beginning to think I didn't know what a chapter was...

Interlude: Note to Red

From: crazyalirae

To: Scarlettfire

Subject: WooHOO!

Red,

Looks like I’ve got a date for the awards show. How ‘bout you? Not that I’ll actually get to be seen with him but maybe I can guard that body some more? Hmmm?

Gotta go. Think my 12:30 appointment just showed up.

Keep my sanity in your prayers. I’m goin’ on three weeks and counting…

AH

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 6

Mika's Note: Originally titled NEW STRINGS after the Miranda Lambert song of the same title - the song talks about starting over and that's kinda where Ali winds up in this chapter.  No warnings to give, unless you have an adverse reaction to insane silliness. LOL

“Where’s Bryan?”

“Still shadowing Ms. Morgan. We’re erring on the side of caution this time around. The powers that be figure that if Mr. Matson is a target, she may be too.”

“Makes sense to me. But why pull me off my assignment and leave that poor, twenty-something girl in Bryan’s clutches?” She looked at Caleb and smiled. “And you were all worried about Blake’s innocence.”

Caleb just looked at her. “I thought your brother explained to you that we needed your expertise on this assignment.” He tapped the bulging manila folder in front of him.

“Yeah, I guess he mentioned it.”

“Good. Now here’s the situation…”

~*~

Leslie clawed her way out from under all the blankets pulled over her head and groggily groped for her phone. “Hullo?”

“Hey Lee, whatcha up to?”

“Um, sleeping, Blake. Yawn. What’s so important?”

“Nothin’ babe. Go back to sleep. Miss you.”

“Yeah, miss you… yaaaawn… too.”

“Bye.”

“Bye.”

“Who was that?” Bryan asked sleepily.

“Just Blake. Lay back down and keep me warm.”

“How could you possibly be cold…?”

Leslie gave him an ‘I can’t believe you just asked that’ look and fell back against her pillow.

“Oh… OH! You mean…”

“Shut up and kiss me you jarhead.”

~*~

Allyson still couldn’t believe the Brotherhood was so desperate to get some kind of foothold, any kind of foothold, that they’d start singling out country musicians and industry reps. “Ya gotta be kidding me,” she mumbled.

“No, unfortunately we are not,” General Stone lectured her. “There has been a rash of minor attacks on these people all across the country as of late, Mr. Matson being the most recent.”

Caleb looked into the folder spread out before him. “Others had included Martina McBride, Trace Adkins and Dierks Bentley.”

“Oooh, can I take that last assignment?”

“No!” they shouted in unison.

“You are both no fun!”

“Could you please take this seriously?” Stone huffed.

“I was taking this seriously until you saw fit to drag me off my assignment!”

Caleb and the general looked at each other. “We had our… concerns… about leaving you on that assignment so you’ve been reassigned.”

“Hmm… let me guess, Bryan was the concerned one, right?” The looks on their faces confirmed her suspicions. “Whatever. Just let me do my job and get on with my life.” She was fuming inside but she’d be damned if she was going to let them know that.

“Are you going to be up to handling this?”

“Yup.”

Stone sighed. “Can’t you ever be serious?”

“You asked, I answered.”

“Fine. You’ll be meeting with the coordinator for the Southern Music Association awards ceremony on Tuesday. That’s September 5^th, with the awards show being in late October. That should be sufficient time to get things organized and possibly hunt down any conspirators.”

Ali gave a mental eye roll and nodded. “Sure thing, boss. I’ll get right on it.”

“It’s about time,” Caleb breathed.

And give me time to find a certain blue-eyed cowboy while I’m there, she thought to herself.

~*~

“But…”

“No buts! You are not sending my hats to be inspected for bombs!”

“Well, okay, but if your head blows up…”

“He won’t have to listen to your dumb ideas anymore at least.”

“My dumb ideas, Rogan? What about the time…”

And the argument ensued. Blake stared in awe at the two professional soldiers, and best friends, who never seemed to be able to not fight. But never seemed to get mad at each other either. “What is it with those two?” he asked an equally perplexed band mate.

Feeling a vibration at his hip, he pulled out his phone and smiled at the caller ID. “Hey, Cookie, what’s up?”

“Not much, Cowboy. Just heading for Vegas, and I thought you’d be interested to know.”

“Now, that is the best thing I’ve heard all day.”

“Hmm, Albie and Bazooka Joe at it again?’

A sigh escaped Blake’s lips. “Uh-huh.”

“Get used to it. They fight like a married couple.”

“How do they make up?”

“Very carefully.”

He loved the sound of the grin in her voice. “So, whatcha doing in Las Vegas?”

“Gonna be helping coordinate the SMA Awards Show for you fools this year. Not that anyone is going to listen to anything practical or that might actually save a life… but hey, all in a day’s work, right?”

Laughing, he replied, “Right!” Blake paused to gather his nerve. “But you’ll still be there for the show, right?”

“Should be, unless Caleb and General Stone decide to screw with me again. But being the one coordinating this whole mess, they won’t be able to get rid of me without a hassle. So, I’ll still be there.”

“Good, because we have a bit of unfinished business. And I’ll have some time off too.”

Grinning like a fool, she paused for dramatic effect. “Yeah, I think I have a day or two of vacation coming. I’ve always wanted to go see the Trump Taj Mahal.”

Blake stared at the phone in his hand dumbly. “That is in Atlantic City, Ali. And besides, that is NOT what I meant.”

Unable to hold back the laughter any longer, she giggled. “And I am so totally trying to get your goat, ya big dork. Looks like it worked.” Not to mention that she’d spent an awful lot of time in Vegas, she knew which hotels were and weren’t there. But he didn’t know that.

Growling he retorted, “You are so gonna get it when I see you.”

“You better watch it, choir boy. You never know – I just might see you first.” Ali smiled a lustful smile and hung up.

Quote of the Week

We're so engaged in doing things to achieve purposes of outer value that we forget that the inner value, the rapture that is associated with being alive, is what it's all about.

  - Joseph Campbell

And how very true is this?  As children, we live for the moment and strive for happiness in all things.  Once we become teens, we are taught that this is not how we are to live our lives.  Our sole purpose, once we become adults, is to present the perfect picture to the outside world.  No one is to know that we are struggling, that we are unhappy, that we dislike our jobs.  And they wonder why so many of us are medicated and numb these days.  At least I'll never have to worry about that.  Well, the numbness anyway.  I may just end up medicated if they ever catch me. LOL

~Mika