Mika's World

Musical Inspiration of the Day

2010-01-29T08:17:00.001-08:00

So, I found a picture the other day of Chuck star Zachary Levi (you can find it here). In it, he’s holding a cigarette to his mouth and looking down at the camera. And while smokers completely turn me off, for some reason the combination of the cigarette, the smoke, and the look on his face totally inspired me in so many ways. The colors, the textures, the subject. LOL Oh, and the wonderful lighting helps. A lot.

With that picture in mind, I began to write. And it was going really well until, about 1000 words in, it took a really maudlin turn. Now, while a bit of a sad tone to a story isn’t a bad thing, I had to stop and put it away for fear it would go way down into the darkness. That happens more often than I’d like to admit and while I love a dark, emotionally wrenching story, the majority of the world out there doesn’t. So, I stopped. I needed to gather my thoughts, regroup, and formulate a new plan of attack. Poor Jace. LOL

On my way into work this morning, however, my iPod gave me a bit of inspiration as well in the form of a song I haven’t heard in a long time. It randomly spits out an older Tim McGraw song called “All We Ever Find” off his Tim McGraw & the Dancehall Doctors CD. By the end of the first verse, I knew that this song fit the theme of the story I was writing perfectly. It’s a love song full of hope and inspiration. Passion, encouragement, contentment and unconditional love fill this song. And it’s just what I needed to turn my story around. Here are the lyrics for those of you who don’t know it.

All We Ever Find
Say exactly how you feel
Right now you're free to say it all
There is no one here to judge you
I only love you
You're free to close your eyes and fall
You can trust me, this is real
Say exactly how you feel

Tell me all your dreams
And what you think love means
We'll lock the world outside
Embrace the gift of time
Promising forever
Knowing that this moment
Might be all we ever find

Every breath of who you are
Tells a story that I love
I have finally found the truth
In what I see in you
And what I feel with every touch
The simple beauty of your heart
In every breath of who you are

Tell me all your dreams
And what you think love means
We'll lock the world outside
Embrace the gift of time
Promising forever
Knowing that this moment
Might be all we ever find

Promising forever
Knowing that this moment
Might be all we ever find

It’s those little moments, the hug in the kitchen, the touching of hands as you pass on your way to the staircase, the accidental knock in the head in the car… wait, maybe not that last one… but the others, those are the moments that you remember forever. It’s not the big, expensive presents, or the fancy dinners out, it’s those little moments that stick in your heart and make you know that the one you found is the one for you. And that’s what this song made me realize.

And now, maybe it’ll be okay if Lessa spills her guts to Jace, telling her just why she’s so afraid to let him walk out that door. After all, he is holding her securely in his lap and I highly doubt he’s going to let go until he gets the truth out of her. But then, I could be wrong. My characters have surprised me before. *looks directly at Mr. Matson trying to hide in the corner* And I have no doubt that they will continue to do so in the future.

Now? Now I need to go finish this project. :)

~Mika

I Think I Got It!

2008-10-23T15:31:00.001-07:00

I think I figured out what to do next. Reordering some of my stories and changing them to fit. Hope I don’t confuse myself more than I already am. LOL Doesn’t help that so many of them were originally written out of order, does it? And egads, I’ve been working on this for two years now…

Ummm… What Next?

2008-10-21T15:47:00.001-07:00

LOL

When I wrote all this, I hadn’t ever thought of having to put it all together. And now, I’m stuck. Not sure what comes next, or what should. Been trying to patch things together as I go and hopefully it’s been working. ROFL.

Guess I’m going to have to go back and figure that one out, huh? I know I’m going to have to do some repair work and make a connection between where I left off today and what will most likely come next. SO, if you find something that doesn’t make sense, be sure to holler at me. :)

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 7

2008-10-21T15:40:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: Can ya tell that Eric Chruch’s song had just come out? LOL

Two Pink Lines

“Oh… my… god…” Ali groaned, rolling over into the sunlight.

“Whatsa matter?” Blake mumbled sleepily.

“I think the phone’s ringing…”

“Ignore it, babe…” he murmured, attempting to pull her back into his arms.

“Can’t Cowboy.” She placed a light kiss on his cheek and sat up. “The friends I’ve got? If I don’t answer the phone, they come find me.” Stretching, she shrugged on Blake’s discarded flannel and barefooted it down the hall.

“This had better be worth dragging me out of my warm bed,” she announced.

“Don’t you mean ‘away from the warm body I was snuggling’?” Albert’s laughter filled her ears and she gave in and smiled.

“Yeah, somethin’ like that, I guess.”

“Glad to hear it. I was afraid he’d bail on you and then I’d have to kill him.” He paused, trying to phrase what he had to ask next. “So, what’s new?”

“Um, I’ve discovered that there is such a thing as ‘almost too much sex’.”

“Almost?”

“Yeah, because although I’m sure I’m getting there, I haven’t quite reached the ‘too much’ part yet.”

“Oh gods… and you wonder how you got into this situation.” He tried and failed to stifle his laughter. “Sooo… anything else I should know?”

“Subtle, Rogan. Very subtle. The rabbit didn’t die, if that’s what you’re asking.”

Albie breathed a sigh of relief. “That’s good news.” He paused. “Or is it?”

“I think so, although I got the distinct impression Blake was disappointed. I could’ve been misreading him but I dunno…”

“Well, I guess its better that he’s disappointed that you’re not than angry because you are.” He coughed out a short laugh. “Did that make sense?”

“Only coming from you it did.”

“Oh, shut up and go back to bed. Lemme know if you actually make it to that point of ‘too much’.”

“Not sure if I’ll make it, but I’m sure we’ll try our best. Bye-bye and thanks for checkin’ up on me, Pop.”

“No problem.”

Ali hung up the phone and laughed.

“Oh, this isn’t good.”

“Hey hot stuff! What are you doing out of bed?”

“Looking for you.”

“Oh well, here I am! Now, what isn’t good?”

“The fact that you were laughing when you saw me nekkid.”

“Ooooh… that!” She covered her mouth to catch an escaping chuckle. “I was actually laughing at Albie. He was calling to check in.”

“Check in? Is he looking to come home already?”

“Maybe, but he was more concerned with whether he was gonna have to shoot you or not.”

“Me? What have I done?”

“Nothing… yet. He was afraid you were going to freak out and bail on me, with last night’s issue.”

“Ahh,” he mumbled, lips against her neck. “Never in a million years.”

She wrapped her arms around his waist and smiled. “Glad to hear it. So, so glad.”

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Interlude

2008-10-21T15:32:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: Just when you thought the Interludes were a thing of the past… LOL

E-mail from Hell

From: crazyalirae

To: scarlettfire

Subject: Dodging Bullets

…and I’m not even on assignment. Imagine that. Not that *I* would ever get myself into any kind of trouble. Nope, not innocent, well-behaved lil’ ol’ me.

Yeah, right!

I can’t really go into details right now because if Blake catches me up again, I think he’s going to tie me to the bed… Hey, now there’s an idea…

Um, sorry? But seriously, I dodged a serious bullet this time. I need someone to smack me a time or two to get my head back on straight. I think it’s off its track again. *Sigh*

What are we gonna do with me?

Aw, crap… I think I hear footsteps.

BYE!

Ali

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 6A

2008-10-21T15:28:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: I had written the original chapter entitled Some Beach and then, about six months later, I got a writing challenge to write an entry in a father’s journal. I thought that taking this chapter and re-writing it from Blake’s point-of-view would be interesting. And I discovered that I do love writing in his voice. So much fun. :) This picks up right after Ali has snuck out of bed, leaving Blake without his heating pad. LOL

Some Beach Flipside

“Ali?” Blake rolled onto his side and stared at the empty half of the bed. “Where could she have gone?”

Groaning, he forced himself out of the warm bed and onto the floor. Stretching, he looked towards the bathroom. Nope, not in there, the door was open. Kitchen? It was empty too. Scratching his head, Blake started back to the bedroom when he noticed Albie’s door partway open.

What could she be doing in there?

Yawning, he opened Albert’s door and glanced in. Not seeing Ali, he started to go back out, stopping when he heard a sob. Looking around again, he noticed a light on in the bathroom. The door was halfway open and he approached carefully, not wanting to scare her. And if she was crying…?

Ali stood in her brother’s bathroom, clad in a plain white Hanes t-shirt, holding a long thin box, crying. Squinting, he tried to read the box when the sudden reality of the situation dawned on him. Very brightly. Oh my god…

“Care to explain that to me?” Blake asked from behind her, motioning to the box in her hand. How the hell did this happen?

“What? I mean, I thought you were asleep.”

“I was. Then I got cold and you weren’t there anymore. What’s going on?” Crap. Please let me be dreaming. I’m not ready to be a daddy yet. Please, not yet.

Ali sighed, resigned to the fact of the matter at hand. She lifted the box up and showed him. She watched him turn even paler as his suspicions were confirmed. “Blake…”

“How long have you known? Or suspected, I guess?” And why the fuck haven’t you told me yet?

“Just a couple days.”

“And you were gonna tell me when?”

“As soon as I was able to use this damn thing!”

“Sorry. Sheesh.” He turned to walk out of the doorway. Damn her anyway. I don’t need this right now.

Ali reached out and grabbed his arm, watching how the muscles played under the taut skin. “I’m sorry. I’ve been really stressed these last few days. I could lose my job, you know.”

“No, I didn’t know. You’d get booted from the military for being pregnant?” How the heck do they expect to get more soldiers?

“Not exactly. It’s more like HOW and WHEN and with WHOM it all happened.” She paused a moment and frowned. “I doubt it’d even matter that it’s been months since that assignment ended. I can hear Caleb now, ‘It’s the principle of the matter, Lieutenant’.” She shook her head sadly.

“Mmm… I see. So, why didn’t you call? Even if you didn’t know, and you were worried, you could have called me.” He held out his arms and hugged her hard. “I need you. I care about you. I want to help you. And I don’t give a damn that your general ordered us to stay apart. If you’re having my baby, I am here. End of story.” Please don’t let me break down and cry. She doesn’t need that right now.

“I know. You’re just… you, I guess. Superstar and all that crap. I didn’t want you to panic and foul things up for yourself. I certainly didn’t want to screw up your career. I’ve done enough of that to my own lately.” She sighed heavily and kissed his chest. “Besides, I knew Albie would be home in a day or two and he’d smack me around and make me do the right thing.”

He flashed instantly to a memory of meeting Albert in the driveway earlier. Blake started to laugh suddenly. “Sorry,” he mumbled, laughing even harder. No wonder he retreated so quickly.

“What’s so funny?”

“When I met him in the driveway, he said he’d gone to get aspirin for your headache. Couldn’t even go get your own test?”

“Too dizzy to drive.”

Blake looked down at her and smiled. “Too ditzy to drive maybe. Now, are you gonna use that thing or do I need to hold it for you?”

Growling, she pushed his naked body out of the bathroom and slammed the door in his face.

~*~

His smile faltered and faded as soon as she closed the door. He heard her sigh loudly, followed by the ripping of the box. The sounds coming from inside the bathroom were making him nuts. Crumpling paper. The sound of the box hitting the floor. The next three minutes would be the hardest he’d ever waited out.

He glanced at his watch and started the countdown. Then he started pacing. Wondering. Thinking. Praying.

I’m not ready to be a daddy. Not yet. I’m still too much of a child myself. He laughed at that thought. No shit, Blake? You can barely take care of yourself. A wife and a baby? No freakin’ way.

He shook his head roughly, clearing the negative thoughts from his mind. Glancing back at his watch, he noted only forty seconds had passed. Blake looked at the closed door and bit his bottom lip. Am I in love enough to marry her if she’s pregnant? Hell, will she even let me marry her? Will she let her brother beat my ass for this?

Just past a minute fifteen. Blake forced one hand through his unruly curls and sighed. There were so many things to consider. And so much of it had nothing to do with the maybe-baby. What if it was a false alarm? Would she still want to be with him? Would their relationship still be the same? Better? Worse? Stronger? He didn’t know. And how would this affect the ban on their being together? Would she even tell her general asshole if she was?

How will I tell my mother if she is? She won’t care how much in love I may be, all she’ll see is that I’ve screwed up. Again. She’ll never forgive me. And if this ruins her career?

Panic set in with that thought. Holy crap. What if she gets into serious trouble over this? I can’t raise a baby by myself. Damn!

He forced himself to take several slow, deep breaths. You’re overreacting. Take it one step at a time. Looking at his watch again, he was both relieved and frightened to see they’d hit the two-minute mark.

One minute to go. He paced, hands tangled in his dark hair, heart pounding. God, I love her. There. He’d said it. Admitted it to himself. And there ain’t a chance in hell that I’m going to let her go no matter what the outcome of this damn test! Finally, he was ready to face whatever fate had in store for him, and damn his parents, his job and her job too. All that revelation and fifteen seconds to spare.

Taking a deep breath, and saying a silent prayer, he raised his fist to knock on the bathroom door.

~*~

“Okay, Cookie. It’s been three minutes. Come out, come out wherever you are…” And please God let this all be okay…

Ali looked at the white stick sitting on the bathroom sink. “Crap.” Sighing, she let him in. “There,” she pointed to the offending object. “Go look.”

Blake took a deep breath and steeled his nerves to what he was about to see. What was it going to reveal? Baby? No baby? Would this tear them apart either way? He knew one thing for certain: he couldn’t let anything ever come between them now. Not ever. No matter what it took, he was on a mission to get her back for good. He closed his eyes as he stepped to the edge of the sink. He swallowed his heart back down into his chest, looked down, and opened his eyes.

“Aw, crap, Ali.” He stared in disbelief at the negative sign on the little plastic stick and sighed. Looking up and meeting her relieved gaze, he gave her a weak smile. “I guess it’s all going to be okay then, huh?”

“Yeah,” she smiled back.

So why do I suddenly feel so empty? And why does it hurt so much?

Mika’s end note: And why the hell am I suddenly crying when I knew how this was all gonna end? *sniff sniff*

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 6

2008-10-21T15:18:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: When I originally wrote this, I was anxious for a baby. A good friend of mine screamed NOOOOOOOOO! Ali’s not ready! Assuming, of course, that Shana would follow right behind. I was still undecided at the time I finished this chapter.

Some Beach

Ali stood at the sink, head hanging, fingers grasping the countertop desperately. She stared at her haggard reflection in the stainless steel. “Please, just shoot me now,” she muttered. After another week of attitude, Stone had forced her to take a week off. Or else. She often wondered if he thought she would murder someone in the hall for looking at her wrong. He might not have been far off the mark.

She’d opted to come home to Nevada for those few days after reading online that Blake had a concert scheduled in Baltimore during her time off. She figured that was when he’d wanted to see her. Better that she just not be there at all and remove the temptation. For both of them. Another wave of nausea hit her hard and she gripped the sink tightly.

“Ali?” came a familiar, and welcome, voice from the hallway. “Are you here somewhere?”

“Yeah, I’m in here, Albie.”

Albert pushed open the door to the kitchen and just looked at his long-time friend. Frowning, he came up behind her and put his hand on her back. “Babe, are you okay?”

“No. I’m dying. Leave me in peace. And why are you here?”

“I’m still worried about you and don’t give me any of that ‘I’m fine’ crap, because I know you’re not. And, after talking to Blake the other day, I know he’s not either.” He gently turned her until she was facing him. “After listening to him cry, I figured I owed it to the both of you to come after you.” Lifting her chin to meet her gaze, he smiled and looked into her worried eyes. “I also doubt you’re dying. Now, spill it.”

“I’m pregnant.”

“WHAT?”

“You heard me.”

“How late are you?”

“Just about two weeks. But…”

“But, it’s only two weeks. You’ve never been very predictable in that area, you know. And you have been later.”

“Yeah, I know, but then, I’ve never felt like this either.” She gripped her stomach and made a face.

“Like what?”

“Sick. Dizzy. Headachy. Weepy. Too tired to give a…”

“Shit.”

“Well, I was going for a different ending, but close enough.” She’d have laughed, but her tummy would have revolted on her.

He waved one hand in the air. “No, I didn’t mean that. I just meant, ‘Shit, you probably are then’. That’s all.”

“That’s all, he says. Shoot me before Lockhart finds out. Please.”

Albie shook his head and pulled her into a hug. “Caleb’s not gonna find out. Have you taken a test yet?”

Ali shook her head. “Woke up too sick these last few days to do much of anything. Been too dizzy to try and drive.”

“Okay then,” he began. “First order of business is to go get a test. Go lay down. I shouldn’t be too long.”

“You don’t have to…”

“Of course I do. Besides, I need to know if I should take some of my leave time to do some ‘hunting’ of my own.”

“Albert Rogan!”

Laughing, he kissed her cheek. “I’m only teasing. But, have you talked to him lately?”

“No. Not since I gave him the bad news. Not sure what I’d say even if I had.” She paused and caught her friend’s gaze. “You do realize that this could be my ass. Getting preggo is one thing, but doing it with a man I knew I shouldn’t have been involved with? Stone’ll hang me by my toes.”

“I know, but we’ll worry about that when we know for sure, okay?” She nodded and flopped onto the couch. “Until then, try not to freak out on me, okay? It’s my first day back home. You coulda waited until tomorrow to do this to me.” He kissed her forehead and pulled a blanket over her prone form. “Be right back, babe.”

Ali adjusted the pillow and promptly fell asleep.

*~*~

Grabbing the Walgreens bag, Albert climbed out of the Jeep and locked the door. He was halfway up the drive when he heard his name. Turning, he stumbled when he saw who was coming up behind him.

“Hey Albie, wasn’t expecting you here. Thought you were gonna be gone for a month?”

Shit! “Hey Blake, got things done and over with sooner than expected. That always makes the uppity-ups happy.”

“Yup, sure does. Is she home?”

“Yeah, she was just flopping on the couch when I was leaving. How’d you know she was here?”

“Shana told me when I called the apartment. Told me she was alone and unsupervised.” He laughed an evil laugh. “Whatcha got?”

“Um, aspirin. She had a headache.”

“Ah. Lacking something in her diet, maybe?” He gave the other man a grin to match his evil laugh.

Despite everything, Albie couldn’t help but laugh. “Mmm… could be.”

Blake clapped him on the back and let himself into the house. Albie hid the pregnancy test behind his back and escaped to his bathroom to hide the incriminating evidence.

*~*~

“Hey Cookie,” Blake murmured, kneeling down beside her.

“Later, Albie. I don’t wanna think ‘bout it now.”

“Huh?”

“Ignore her,” Albie interrupted. “She talks crazy when she’s half-asleep.”

“Ah, gotcha.” He placed a gentle kiss on her nose and let her sleep.

“Care for a grilled cheese? It’s about the extent of my culinary skills.”

“Sure. That’s about as gourmet as I get.”

*~*~

Ali awoke to the smell of grilled cheese and dill pickles. Forcing her eyes open, she threw off the blanket and staggered into the kitchen. “You are SO gonna make me like, I dunno, five of them things. Now.”

Almost choking on his sandwich, Albie looked up and grinned. “Sure thing, babe.” He pulled the skillet out of the sink and began buttering bread.

“So,” Blake began, “does this mean I’m in the doghouse?” He affected a pathetic pout.

“Huh?” she asked, startled. “Shit! Where’d you come from?”

“Oklahoma. Where’d you come from?” Flashing that grin at her, he got up from his seat at the kitchen counter. Blake reached out to pull her towards him and she took a step back. “Crap. I really am in the doghouse. First you ignore me, now you’re not letting me near you.” He looked hurt. “What’d I do?” he asked quietly. “I know that this is like, an illicit meeting and all, but I thought you’d be happy to see me at least.”

Get it together! She scolded herself quietly. “I’m sorry, Cowboy. I honestly didn’t see you sitting there when I came in. And for the rest, I’m just not awake yet and all that survival crap sticks with you.” She forced herself to go to him and let him hold her. It took all she had to not panic in his arms. “I am happy to see you, though, even if it could cost me my rank.” She tried to laugh her fear and anguish off.

“Mmm… I see,” he mumbled, burying his face in her neck. “I suppose I forgive you.” Relieved, he let her go.

“Here,” Albie handed over three grilled cheese and a handful of dill pickle chips. “I’ve gotta go pack.”

“Pack?” Ali and Blake looked at each other.

“Jinx!” Albie yelled and rushed off to his room.

Ali watched him run off down the hall. Blake watched Ali put away all three sandwiches without pausing.

“I love a woman with an appetite,” he reminded her lovingly.

Horrified, she realized all three sandwiches and the pickles were gone. “Whoops! Hungrier than I thought.”

“Apparently.”

Albert appeared back in the kitchen, a small olive green duffle bag in one hand. Blake eyed him and the duffel warily. “Where are you going? You just got home.”

“Um,” he flicked his gaze towards the tall cowboy beside her. “Gotta mini-job to do. Just remembered it.”

“You are so full of…”

“Blake, please,” she laughed. “Are you going to the base to crash?”

“Yeah.”

“Why?” Blake looked him over, worried he’d done something else wrong.

“Because, Cowboy, he’s afraid you’re gonna stay.”

“Is that a problem?”

“Not for me. You, Albie?”

“Not if I’m not here, it isn’t.” He grinned and kissed her cheek. “Just call me and let me know when the ‘code red’ has ended. ‘Kay?”

Trying to hide the blush creeping up her cheeks, Ali muttered, “Sure.”

Albie shook hands with Blake and wished him luck. “What’s a ‘code red’ and why do I need luck?”

“A ‘code red’ is the prospect of a well, a really good evening. Or weekend. Or well, you get the idea.” She was blushing so furiously now; she couldn’t even look him in the eye.

“Mmm… nice. So why’d he wish me luck then?”

“Probably since I almost killed my last boyfriend on a long weekend.” He’d also turned out to be a traitor, trying to gather sensitive intelligence at her expense, but she wasn’t about to tell him that.

“Ahh… what a way to go, though!” Blake laughed and pulled her into his arms. “So, what do you say? We’re both fed. You’ve had a nap. Should we start the interrogation now?” He nipped at her earlobe, sighing his hot breath along her neck.

Ali shivered at the expectation of an unplanned romp with the hottest man she’s ever known. “Absolutely!” Taking his face in her hands, she pressed her lips against his and forced her tongue into his mouth. He willingly allowed her in, meeting her tongue with his. Ali was just beginning to melt when she felt a vibration at her hip.

“Dammit!” She pulled her phone out of its holster and glared at the caller ID. “Go on back, I’ll be right there.” She pecked him on the cheek and swatted his backside.

“Yes ma’am!” he mock saluted, pulling his shirt off as he headed towards her room.

Ali shook her head and answered her cell. “This better be good.”

Laughter. “Could it get any better? I put the thing in my medicine cabinet. Don’t forget to use it!”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Thanks.”

“Love ya, babe.”

“Love ya too, ya nut.”

Albie disconnected and Ali left her phone ‘accidentally’ on the kitchen counter.

*~*~

Ali snuggled deeper into the covers and closer to her lover. He pillowed her head on his shoulder and held her close with his free arm. Content and satisfied, they were both on the brink of sleep.

“I’ve missed you, Cookie.”

“I’ve missed you, too, Cowboy.”

Within minutes, he was breathing deeply. Ali resisted the urge to let his slow, even breathing lull her to sleep. She still had one very important thing she needed to do.

As soon as she was certain he was asleep, she eased his arm off her, and slipped out of bed. She padded down the hall to her brother’s bedroom. Taking a deep breath, she opened his door and let herself inside. Snagging a freshly laundered T-shirt off his dresser, she pulled it over her head and attempted to cover something of herself.

She opened the bathroom door and rooted in the medicine cabinet until she found what she was looking for. Staring at the box, she began to cry.

“Care to explain that to me?” Blake asked from behind her, motioning to the box in her hand.

“What? I mean, I thought you were asleep.” Nice recovery there, Hart.

“I was. Then I got cold and you weren’t there anymore. What’s going on?” Worry creased his forehead and laced his seductive blue eyes.

Ali sighed, resigned to the fact of the matter at hand. She lifted the box up and showed him. She watched him turn even paler as his suspicions were confirmed. “Blake…”

“How long have you known? Or suspected, I guess?”

“Just a couple days.”

“And you were gonna tell me when?”

“As soon as I was able to use this damn thing!” She hadn’t meant to shout, but her nerves were more frayed than ever.

“Sorry. Sheesh.” He turned to walk out of the doorway.

Ali reached out and grabbed his arm, watching how the muscles played under the taut skin. “I’m sorry. I’ve been really stressed these last few days. I could lose my job, you know.”

“No, I didn’t know. You’d get booted from the military for being pregnant?”

Blake started to laugh suddenly. “Sorry,” he mumbled, laughing even harder.

“What’s so funny?”

“When I met him in the driveway, he said he’d gone to get aspirin for your headache. Couldn’t even go get your own test?”

“Too dizzy to drive.”

Blake looked down at her and smiled. “Too ditzy to drive maybe. Now, are you gonna use that thing or do I need to hold it for you?”

Growling, she pushed his naked body out of the bathroom and slammed the door in his face.

*~*~

“Okay, Cookie. It’s been three minutes. Come out, come out wherever you are…”

Ali looked at the white stick sitting on the bathroom sink. “Crap.” Sighing, she let him in. “There,” she pointed to the offending object. “Go look.”

“Aw, crap, Ali.”

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 5

2008-10-21T14:35:00.001-07:00

The Hardest Part

Pulling herself off the floor, she leaned against the bathroom sink and stared at her pale reflection. “This just can’t be happening to me,” she muttered. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself the luxury of a few self-indulgent tears.

The tinkling of music snapped her eyes open. Her cell phone was ringing. Grasping her robe more tightly around her, she abandoned the bathroom for her bedroom. Rustling around in the mess she’d left on her nightstand, she finally found it and answered, somewhat breathless. “Hello? Lt. Hart.”

A soft chuckle filtered over the line. “Morning, Cookie. Did I disturb you?”

Blake. “No, Cowboy, not at all. I was… just getting out of the shower. Sorry I took so long.” Please God, don’t let him hear that I’ve been crying.

The earlier chuckle became a throaty, all-male laugh. “Nice visual there, I think I like it.”

“You are a pig,” she teased.

“And it’s why you like me so much, isn’t it?”

He knew her too well. “But of course!” She felt her heart fall into her stomach at this easy banter. She still hadn’t been able to break the bad news to him and now, now… this. “So, why are you calling me so early in the morning? Or are you just coming home?”

“Yeah, just got in,” he muttered, sounding slightly embarrassed. “Two shows tonight.” He paused, thinking quickly and deciding to move forward. “I am going to be near you soon and I wanted to see you again.”

Her heart plummeted even farther. “Can’t do that,” she whispered, dreading the next words out of his mouth.

“Busy?”

“No,” she hedged, “not quite.”

“What’s ‘not quite’ mean, Cookie?” His voice had taken on a hard edge.

“Forgive me, but I don’t know how to say this without hurting you.”

“Then just say it,” he spat angrily.

Ali bit her trembling bottom lip, angrily forcing the tears back into their ducts. “I’ve been ordered to stay away from you.”

“What the fuck?” he screamed. “Why? What the hell is it now? It’s not like you’re still my baby sitter or anything!”

“No, I’m not, and I almost wish I was.” The tears had fought back and won, streaming steadily down her cheeks now.

“What’s wrong? Why this, why now?” At least he didn’t sound like he wanted to rip her throat out any longer.

“General Stone. Or, rather, Bryan and his best pal, Caleb.”

He understood now. Her ex and his upper level best friend were out to not just break them up, but keep them apart as well. “Why are they doing this to us? I only just found you and now I have to let you go? I won’t. I can’t. Cookie?”

“I’m sorry, Blake, but I don’t have any choice. Bryan’s jealous, and he’s involving Caleb because he knows I’m encouraging Shana to break away. And Stone…” the tears were close to choking her now. “Stone at least makes sense. Your life is very high profile. By the nature of my job, I have to stay very low profile. A relationship with someone like you is sure to blow my cover. I don’t like it…”

He sighed. “But it does make sense. I never meant to jeopardize your job, or you. I’m sorry.” Blake could feel the tightness closing in on his throat suddenly.

“But it sucks.”

“Yeah, it does. Do I at least get to say good-bye?”

“You’re giving up, just like that?” She was incredulous; he would let her go without a fight?

“I don’t want to, but I’ve met that general of yours. He’d toss me in the pokey without a second thought if I did anything other than what he says. He told me so and I believe him.” The invisible hand clenching at his throat moved lower and squeezed at his heart. “Is there anything either of us can do?”

She shook her head and laughed.

“What’s so funny?”

“Other than me shaking my head at the phone? Nothing.” The sound of his laughter eased the ached in her soul just a bit. “Sadly, once General Michael E. Stone makes up his mind, there’s no changing it.”

“So, no good-bye then.” It was a statement, not a question.

“No,” she whispered. “Our last night together was our good-bye.”

“If I’d known that, I wouldn’t have ever left.”

“I know, Cowboy, and I’m sorry.” And you don’t know just how sorry, either. “I’m going to miss you.”

He looked out the kitchen window and stared absently into his back yard. “I’m going to miss you, too. “

“Good-bye, Blake.”

“Good-bye, Allyson. Thank you for not allowing the bad guys to fill me full of holes.”

The corner of her mouth quirked up at that. “Anytime you need a bodyguard,” she teased and hung up.

~*~

“General, I’m worried about my sister. “

“It’s a bit of heartache, Rogan, she’ll get over it,” Caleb Lockhart spat out. “And probably not even heartache at that.”

“Yeah,” Bryan snorted, “more like a loin ache, I’d guess.”

“Lockhart,” General Stone growled, “and Tracey, that will be enough!” Looking at Lt. Rogan, he glared. “And why are you so worried about her. She’s a grown woman.”

“I know that,” he replied indignantly. “But, she’s not eating, she’s not sleeping, and Shana says she’s been physically ill these last few days. She won’t talk to me or to Shana.”

He stared hard at his lieutenant while considering his options. If he didn’t at least agree to talk to her, there’d be hell from both Rogan and the irrepressible redhead. “I’ll talk to her. Go back to work.”

Albert saluted. “Yes sir.”

~*~

“You requested my presence, sir?” she tried to joke, but without any real heart in it.

“Yes, Lieutenant, I did. Have a seat.”

Allyson sat, worried about was was coming next. “I have been doing as you requested.”

General Stone gazed at her, not understanding at first, and then the realization hit him. “For once, he is not the reason you’re here.” She visibly relaxed and he wondered at that briefly. “No, rather, this time it is because of your brother.

She groaned and rolled her eyes. “What did he and Bazooka do this time?”

Stone gave a belly laugh that shook the small office. “Oh, no, nothing like that. Not today anyway. However, he is concerned for your wellbeing.”

Ali blinked. “Huh?”

“He and Shana are concerned about your health. She says you’ve been ill and your brother concurs.”

Aw, hell. “I feel fine, General.”

“And emotionally? How are you there?”

Double hell. “As well as can be expected, considering.”

“Considering what?”

Considering the fact that I’m almost positive I’m pregnant with the baby of a man I’m not even allowed to see? “Considering you took one of my best friends away from me and insisted I never see him again.”

“You barely knew him!”

“Yeah, and sometimes you just click with someone. Sometimes, General, it’s just right. May I go now?”

“Yes. Dismissed. And shape up or there will be trouble.”

She rolled her eyes inwardly. “Yes. Sir.”

~*~

“Albie?” Ali poked her head into the rec room and looked around for her brother. “You in here?”

“Over here, cutie,” called Bazooka, head down over a foosball table.

“Hey sis,” Albie greeted her, not taking his eyes from the heated match he was sharing with his friend. “How are… OUCH!” He looked up at her then. “Why’d you just hit me?”

She frowned hard at him. “I know you mean well, but please, stop trying to help. I do not need to be grilled by General Stone over my current emotional state. It’s fragile enough as it is.”

“I’m sorry,” he told her honestly, leaving the game half finished to hug her. “He said he was just going to talk to you.”

“I know,” she reassured him, “but you know how he is, especially where Blake is concerned.”

Albie looked at his feet. “If I hadn’t…”

“Shana would. I know. And I’m thankful you beat her to the punch. She’d have made a mess of things. But now? Just leave it alone, okay? I’m fine.”

“You don’t look fine.”

“Bazooka? You stay out of it too.”

“Sorry,” he muttered.

“Don’t be, but you are all causing me grief with your well-meaning help. Got me?” They both nodded, not happy, but knowing she was right. “Now , someone call Red so we can get some dinner. I’m starved.”

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 4

2008-10-21T13:15:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: Yeah, so I was gone for more than a few days. Sorry. LOL

Coming Clean

The plate of food sat on the table in front of her, untouched. She hadn’t eaten all day and yet, she couldn’t bring herself to eat this, either. Her stomach was in knots.

“Ali?” her brother asked concerned, “Are you okay?”

She shook her head. “No, not really.”

“You’ve been acting weird all week, wanna talk about it?”

She frowned. “Not really, but I suppose I should.” She picked up a tortilla chip and sighed. Crunching on the cheese and sour cream covered bit of chip, she chewed and thought how to break the news to her brother. “I’ve been ordered to break off my relationship with Blake.”

“What?” The shrill response startled both Ali and Albert.

“Hey Shana,” Albie called out once his heart had started beating again.

“Geez, you scared me.”

“Well, you just scared me too, chickie,” the redhead informed her, plopping down next to her and reaching for her roommate’s nachos. “I thought you just said you were dumping Mr.. HotStuff Cowboy.”

Ali sighed again. “I have to.”

“What the fuck for?” Albert. Never one to mince words.

“No choice. Stone’s afraid that his um, fame will blow my cover and thus ruin every possible future mission.”

“And thus dooming the free world to a fate worse than death,” Shana finished for her, quoting one of their general’s favorite scenarios.

“Something like that,” she mumbled. “More like ruining any chance I had to be happy for a change, that’s for sure.”

Taking her hand, Albie gave it a squeeze. “Have you talked to him yet?”

She shook her head. “Not yet, I don’t even know what to tell him.”

“How about your C.O. is a dumbass?” Shana looked at her two friends and their frowns. “What? Works for me.”

A smile quirked up one half of Ali’s mouth. “Works for me too, but I doubt Blake will accept that.”

“So, what then?”

“I don’t know, Red, but I do know it won’t be easy. He and Leslie had a big row after the awards show. She admitted to her infidelities and he walked away. I don’t know what to say that’s not going to make him feel just as betrayed.”

“Try him, sis,” Albie assured her. “You might be surprised.”

She shrugged. It was possible, although she wasn’t ready to admit it. The possibility that Blake might go along with the dissolution of their almost-relationship hurt more than the idea she had to give him up. After all, didn’t that mean the relationship was that easy to let go of? “Maybe,” she admitted.

“I think that, for once, Albie might be right, Ali.” She squeezed her friend’s arm, wishing there was more she could do. “Hopefully he’ll at least understand, even if he doesn’t like it.”

Ali nodded, fighting back the sudden onslaught of tears forming behind her eyes. What the hell was wrong with her these days? Ever since her last visit with Blake, she’d become more and more prone to tears. And she never cried. Never. “Doesn’t look like I have much choice, wish me luck.”

“Luck,” they chimed in unison.

“Thanks, and I better get going. Lots to do and more piling up all the time.” She shrugged, trying to act unconcerned and failing miserably. “I think Bryan is bound and determined to keep me buried under a mountain of paperwork until I agree to date him again.”

“God help us all,” Shana replied, watching her best friend walk away.

“Amen,” Ali called back over her shoulder. “See you at home later.”

“I’ll have the tequila ready!” she shouted encouragingly. As soon as Ali had disappeared from sight, she caught Albert’s gaze. “Is she really okay?”

He looked from where his sister had disappeared over to the redhead sharing the table. “I think so. I know she’s upset, but she’s not one to dump her feelings on anyone, you know.”

“Yeah, I know, but she’s been acting oddly. And she’s pale. And not sleeping. I’m worried.”

Sighing, Albie took Shana’s hand and gave it a quick squeeze. “She’s in pain. She’s been alone way too long and now she’s having to give up the one thing that’s making her happy. Give her some time, okay?”

Shana nodded. “Okay. Thanks.”

“Anytime.”

The Girl and Her Ache

2008-10-14T10:24:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: This is a very personal piece for me. My best friend had a bad marriage. Her husband left before their child was ever born, I believe, and if not, not very long after the baby arrived (it’s been 11 years, I forget, so sue me). That poor child has this huge hole in her heart that he left and she can’t find a way to fill it without finding him. I wish I could hug her and tell her that she’s so much better off, but I don’t think she would understand, and that’s a good thing, trust me, that not knowing things can be much worse. Sometimes, it’s better when the Daddies don’t stay. Just don’t ask me how I know.

I stood listening to the poor young girl just spilling her heart out over the father she never knew. All the hurt, anger and frustration she’d kept locked inside for the past eleven years overflowed and poured out before me. Her mother sat off to one side, frowning. Mom knew how lucky the poor thing was to have never known her father; the girl had no clue.

Yet, I had been on both sides and knew things that neither of them had a clue to. This is why I was there. Mom had the girl’s best interests at heart, and only wanted her child happy. She knew that deep down, once her budding pre-teen found the man she so desperately sought, that she’d be saddened, broken, and disappointed. However, what she failed to accept was that this, like so many other hurtful ventures, was a needed and necessary part of growing up. Something she needed so she could finally move on. Move forward.

Not pleasant by any means, but something the girl needed to do in order to become the person she was destined to be.

I took the girl’s hand and squeezed it gently. She looked up at me, blue eyes full of tears, and offered up a trembling smile. “So, do you get it? Do you understand or are you like her?” She looked across her shoulder at her mother. Not judging, just questioning.

I shrugged. “Don’t blame your mother; she understands more than you can know. She’s just trying to do her best.” She had, after all, been by my side through most of what had shaped me all those years ago.

The girl sighed. “I know, but she’s not making it any easier.”

Nodding, I agreed. It was a mother’s job to protect, to coddle, to keep safe. “It’s because she knows you have a lifetime of heartache before you, she wants to spare you as much of that as she can.”

The girl nodded, I think she knew that all along, but her quest kept her from acknowledging it. The desire to know, to discover, and to find closure burned in her blue eyes. “But I need this.”

Again, I nodded. I knew so well what she meant. I’ve been there. I’ve suffered the daily heartache of having a father who wanted nothing to do with you. At least, in her case, he’d left and gone away. Mine still came home every night, forcing the rejection into my young, pre-teen face, over and over until I no longer thought I could bear it. And yet, still I strove to make him proud, make him accept and maybe, eventually, want me.

Commiserating on her need to fill that empty space in her chest, to find that acknowledgement and approval that she thinks she lacks, I smiled softly. “I know I needed it once too.”

“How did you get past it?”

She is entirely too perceptive for one of her age, I realized suddenly. “I forgave him.”

The blonde child blinked at me and frowned. “That’s it?”

“That’s it,” I agreed. Sadly, for me, the forgiveness came too late, not until he’d been taken from me and there was no longer a chance for reconciliation.

“How could you give him that?”

It wasn’t easy. He’d destroyed me, more thoroughly than anyone ever could have. He tore down my defenses, beat my self-esteem into submission, and gave me reason to doubt every thought I’d ever had before or since. And yet…

And yet, it wasn’t him that I hated. Near the end, as an adult, I finally came to understand that it wasn’t him who had abandoned me. It was the alcohol. It was the addiction that had torn him away from his family, his job, his life. It abducted him and replaced him with someone no one knew. And that was what had happened to this child as well. The drugs, the lies, the addiction had stolen her father away from her.

She needed to discover that. Would it be easy? Not by a long shot. Did I think she could handle it? Absolutely. She had the heart of gold, an unbelievable group of people who already loved her, supported her, and wanted her. His rejection would hurt, but eventually, I was sure she could find the strength to forgive as well.

“You just let go. You let go of the ache in your heart, the anger in your soul, and the desire to be perfect for him.”

“I can’t do that.”

“Maybe not now, but soon. I promise you that much. One day, you’ll wake up and discover that you can move on. That you don’t need his acceptance any longer to be a whole, beautiful person. It’ll be the most freeing experience of your life. And then you can truly begin to heal.”

She looked over at her mother again, smiling this time. “Okay, but I still need to find him. I don’t know if I can ever move on if I don’t.”

Mom nodded sadly. “I know, and I will do what I can. And you know, that no matter what, when this is all said and done, that I will be there for you, right?”

The girl smiled more broadly. “Of course. I couldn’t do this without you.”

I smiled. She’ll never know just how lucky she was to have grown up with such a loving family surrounding her. How grateful she should be for that hold in her heart, instead of a hole in her soul like I had for most of my life. I’d not change things for me, my trials have helped me become who I am, but if I can spare one child that anguish, then it’s worth it. If I can help this one child that I adore so much, than I have achieved something worthy.

And that in itself is healing the emptiness inside me, my heart, my soul, my very being, making me whole all over again.

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 3

2008-10-08T15:56:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: This is it for now, more next week sometime. Enjoy!

Back to the Grind

They’d managed to steal four days alone before Ali’s leave time was up. Reluctantly, they said good-bye and went their separate ways. Ali went back to her headquarters in Washington, DC; Blake back to his sometime-home in Nashville before heading back to his real home outside of Tulsa.

Ali sat with her booted feet propped on her desk, thinking on her recent mission to Peru. The situation there had been handled and the rebels, aka terrorists, had been contained. Something still didn’t make sense but she couldn’t quite put her finger on it. Yet. She leaned back in her chair and tapped her lips with a finger.

“Let it go,” the voice told her.

She looked up and met the soft brown eyes of fellow soldier, Andrew Kash. “Hey Andy, let what go?”

“Whatever it is you’re thinking so hard about. It can’t be good.”

Ali grinned, sitting up in her chair and putting her feet back on the floor. “I was just rehashing our last mission.”

Andrew frowned. “See, I told you it wasn’t good.” He leaned forward and rested his forearms on the edge of her desk. “What has you rethinking that one? We went in, we got out, none of the good guys got hurt.”

“Yeah,” she agreed, “but something’s still not right. We never found their ring leader and that worries me.”

He shrugged, unconcerned. “They all slither back to the same dank hole eventually, so why worry?”

“I dunno,” she admitted, “I just feel like we missed something and it’s annoying me.”

“Better put it out of your mind soon. Just heard General Stone discussing a possible new mission with Caleb and Bryan. I think your office was their next stop.”

“Thanks for the heads up. I can look busy then.”

Laughing, he couldn’t pass up the chance to tease her a little. “Also gives you time to get him off your mind.”

Ali growled and he ran for the door. “Jerk,” she muttered. Approximately three minutes later there was a knock on her door. “Enter.”

General Stone entered followed by her two commanding officers, Bryan and Caleb. “Afteroon Lieutenant, may we have a seat?”

She wasn’t so sure she liked this; for any kind of mission debriefing or discussion she’d have been summoned to them. The fact that they had come to her boded ill for everyone. “Of course, General. Can I get any of you a drink?” She had a mini fridge stocked with bottled water and Frappuccinos for those times when she desperately needed a caffeine fix.

“No thank you, Allyson,” Stone replied, urging her to sit. “We’ve come to,” he looked at his two right hand men, momentarily at a loss for words, “have a bit of a discussion with you.”

“Okay,” she began, slightly afraid. “Any other time, I probably would be aware of what I’d done to deserve a confrontation like this, but for once I’m at a loss. Enlighten me.”

Caleb frowned. “I think you’re pretty sure of what you’ve done.”

“Huh?” Ali looked from face to face trying to find some hint of the crime she’d committed but wasn’t getting any help. “Okay, so call me stupid, but I really don’t know.”

“It’s probably because she doesn’t think it was wrong,” Bryan snorted angrily. “Sleeping with a man committed to another woman doesn’t generally cross her mind as wrong.”

“Fuck me,” she mumbled under her breath. “This is about Blake then, I’m guessing?”

“Yes,” General Stone started, leaning forward in an effort to intimidate her. She’d known him for too many years however, he didn’t intimidate her in the least. “It has been brought to my attention that you’ve had an… interlude… with the man.”

Ali choked on the mouth of water she’d taken. Interlude? She swore they’d performed entire concerts… “Excuse me?”

Bryan opened his mouth, ready with an angry response, but the good General beat him. “I have reason to believe you’ve been intimate with Mr. Matson, Allyson.”

Looking from Bryan to Caleb, she realized that they’d either assumed she would or had found out somehow. Undaunted and unashamed she wasn’t worried that she’d done anything really wrong. “And?”

“And you damn well knew you weren’t allowed!” Bryan managed to get his nasty retort in this time.

“Allowed? Are you my father now? I sure as hell hope not because…”

“Bryan! Allyson!” General Stone bellowed. “Stop it now.”

“Yes sir,” they muttered, glaring at one another.

“What he means is that you knew going in that any sort of fraternization between the two of you was not permitted. You broke that rule.”

“Only after the mission was finished.”

The General squeezed his eyes shut, hoping he really hadn’t heard her correctly. “So they’re right then,” he asked her, slowly opening his eyes to look at her.

“Yes, sir,” she admitted, frightened for the first time since they’d arrived.

“Lieutenant, you do know that that’s not allowed either?”

“If I had known, do you think I would have done it?” Seventeen times.

Stone let out a heavy breath. “When did you last see him?”

“My last visit home, a week or so ago.”

“Make sure that it’s your last.” General Stone stood to leave and motioned to the other two to do the same.

“But General…”

“No buts, Allyson. You know the rules.”

“And this is a new one for me,” she fumed.

Bryan crossed his arms and smirked, waiting for the fireworks to fly.

Stone looked around and frowned. “Bryan, Caleb, wait for me back at my office.”

“But,” they both spluttered, disappointed at missing what was sure to be a real show.

“Now,” he growled.

“Yes, sir,” they muttered and slinked out the door.

Ali glared. “When did the rules change?”

Stone held his hands up. “I’m sorry, but I have no choice. Keeping your identity on the down-low is high priority. If you start dating someone who is so high profile, it will blow your cover. Makes it hard to go unnoticed when everyone knows who you are.”

He had a point there, she had to admit. “I have no intentions of being in the spotlight with him. He even said that he didn’t want to share me with the world. I don’t see…”

“Because you are blind. You know what you have to do, now do it. Understand?”

Ali nodded, unhappy. Blake was going to be pissed. And that’s if she was lucky.

Chapter 4: Coming Clean

The plate of food sat on the table in front of her, untouched. She hadn’t eaten all day and yet, she couldn’t bring herself to eat this, either. Her stomach was in knots.

“Ali?” her brother asked concerned, “Are you okay?”

She shook her head. “No, not really.”

“You’ve been acting weird all week, wanna talk about it?”

“What?” The shrill response startled both Ali and Albert.

“Hey Shana,” Albie called out once his heart had started beating again.

“Geez, you scared me.”

“Well, you just scared me too, chickie,” the redhead informed her, plopping down next to her and reaching for her roommate’s nachos. “I thought you just said you were dumping Mr. HotStuff Cowboy.”

Ali sighed again. “I have to.”

“What the fuck for?” Albert. Never one to mince words.

“No choice. Stone’s afraid that his um, fame will blow my cover and thus ruin every possible future mission.”

“And thus dooming the free world to a fate worse than death,” Shana finished for her, quoting one of their general’s favorite scenarios.

“Something like that,” she mumbled. “More like ruining any chance I had to be happy for a change, that’s for sure.”

Taking her hand, Albie gave it a squeeze. “Have you talked to him yet?”

She shook her head. “Not yet, I don’t even know what to tell him.”

“How about your C.O. is a dumbass?” Shana looked at her two friends and their frowns. “What? Works for me.”

A smile quirked up one half of Ali’s mouth. “Works for me too, but I doubt Blake will accept that.”

“So, what then?”

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 2

2008-10-08T15:54:00.001-07:00

Headlights in the Rain

It had been months; too many months if you asked him. Sadly, no one had bothered. He missed her and the waiting was killing him. “Just a few more weeks,” he whispered to himself. “Just a few more weeks. Then you can see her again. C’mon. It won’t kill ya.” He sighed. “The hell it won’t,” he mumbled loudly. Their prearranged date, set for Valentine’s Day, was much too far in the future for his taste.

He’d last seen her here in October. It was now New Year’s Eve. A dark, rainy New Year’s Eve to boot. “What a way to start a new year,” he thought sourly. “Just what I didn’t need tonight.” The clouds were thick, grey and showed no signs of letting up anytime soon.

Blake let the curtains fall back into place and paced the hotel room. He and his band should’ve been on their way back to Nashville, back home, by now but the nasty weather was keeping them in Vegas for one more night. “There are worse places to be stuck, I suppose,” he grumbled, unconvinced. At least his band mates were enjoying themselves. Someone had to.

Music floated up from his hip suddenly. Snatching his phone up, he glanced at the display. Seeing her name appear, he grinned. “It’s about time, babe. I’ve been waiting weeks to hear from you!”

“Sorry, Cowboy, been out of the country as you are aware. Kinda hard to make calls from Peru, ya know.”

“I suppose,” he teased, not wanting to let her off the hook quite yet, “but it’s still no excuse.”

“Jerk,” she teased back. “So, what’s new with you?”

“Nothin’. Just stuck here in Vegas for the night.”

“Can you get ‘stuck’ in Vegas?” she asked. “Most people I know would kill for a reason to stay over.”

“Well, if it weren’t for this freak rainstorm, I could be on my way home tonight. I need to go home. I want to go home. This trip has worn me out.”

“Gettin' old there, Cowboy.”

“HEY! That’s not nice!”

Ali laughed at his outrage. “Easy boy.”

“It’s hard to be calm when I’m here in the rain and you’re… um, where are you?”

“Home.”

“Home? Not at your headquarters?”

“Nope. I’m home for the first time in ages. Well, actually more like eighteen months, unless you count a day here and a day there, but I don’t.”

“Hmm. So, where’s home for you?”

“Henderson.”

“Hendersonville? Tennessee? Why didn’t you…?”

She cut him off before he could get too excited. “No dork. Nevada.”

“Huh?”

“I think you need some sleep. Henderson, Nevada. I’m probably about fifteen miles from you, at most, depending on where you’re staying.”

“Oh.” Then: “OH! You’re HERE! So, why aren’t you here then?” Meaning with him. Preferably naked.

“Because,” she said, as if explaining the facts of life to a two-year-old, “I didn’t know where you even were until you answered the phone, remember?”

“Oh, yeah. There is that.”

“Are you always this thick?”

“Not always.”

“Just usually?”

“Right. So, how long until you get here?”

“Gonna tell me where you are first?”

“Nope. Ya gotta guess.”

~*~

After checking his website for the venue he’d been performing at, Ali got into her Jeep and headed down to the infamous Las Vegas Strip. Traffic was atrocious and took her almost forty-five minutes to make a routine, twenty-minute trip. Eventually, she pulled into valet and left her keys with the attendant. He took the keys from her and moaned, “So much for the fireworks, huh?”

She nodded in sympathy. One of the nice things about living in Las Vegas was the fireworks. You got them on the 4^th of July, of course, but also on New Year’s Eve, at every casino opening, and anytime the gambling moguls thought it would work to their advantage. “No fear, they’ll shoot ‘em off tomorrow if they can’t tonight.” And it was true. Anything to bring the people back out.

Stepping off to the side, avoiding all the foot traffic, she pulled out her cell phone and dialed.

“Yeah?”

“Hey Cowboy, I’m down at valet. Where are you?”

“Standing right behind you.”

Grinning, she flipped her phone shut and stuffed it into her pocket. “How’d ya know?”

“You’re too smart for your own good.” He pulled her into a tight hug and held her close. “I knew it wouldn’t take you long to find me.”

“So? Dinner or what?”

“Dinner definitely,” he said, reluctantly letting her go. “I’m starved. They’ve got a good steak place here. C’mon.” He reached for her hand and led her into the casino.

~*~

“Glad to see your appetite hasn’t changed any.”

“Stuff it, Blake. I like to eat.”

“And apparently, you aren’t shy about it either.” She threatened him with a forkful of baked potato. “I’m not complaining, I swear!” he laughed, hands in the air, waving in mock surrender.

Ali lowered her forkful of potato and smiled at him. “I’ve missed you.”

“Me too. I mean, you.” Blake sighed and shook his head. “One more time – I’ve missed you too.”

“Amazing. You write beautiful love songs that woo millions of women but can’t tell me whatcha mean for diddly.”

“Putting words on paper is so much easier. Ya don’t have to have a conversation. Ya just talk to the paper and it stays quiet.”

“Mmm. Imagine that, something that doesn’t talk back.”

He glared at her and thought better than to say what he was thinking. Instead, he grabbed the dessert menu out of her hands. Ignoring her protests, he perused the night’s selections and settled on some cheesecake.

~*~

Resisting the urge to lick the whipped cream from the edges of her mouth, she lifted the napkin to her lips and dabbed at it, hoping she got it all. Blake watched her intently, smiling self-consciously the entire time.

“What?”

“Ya shoulda let me get that for you.”

“Do you ever think about things before you say them?”

“Yeah.”

“Bet that was one of those things that sounded better inside huh?”

Ignoring her, he smiled. “Take me home with you.”

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me. I’d take you back upstairs but the entire world would know by daybreak. And this is not something I want to share with the whole world.”

“Just my neighbors?”

“Sure, as long as they’re not too nosy.” He leaned in closer to her. “Please?”

She gave in to the smile building behind her lips. “Can’t resist a man who says ‘please.’ Pay for dinner and we’ll go. Although,” she paused, looking at him, “you’re not gonna be impressed.”

“With you? Too late.”

“No, my house. It’s kinda small.”

“I grew up in a small house. I like ‘em.”

“And that’s why you live on 200 acres?”

Blake blushed. “Well…”

“Come on, Cowboy. I’m just teasing.”

Swatting playfully at the back of her head, he followed happily.

~*~

Ali chatted aimlessly on the drive back to her modest place on the outskirts of Las Vegas. Between singing along with the radio and talking about her latest trip, she stole glances at her some-times-between-times-boyfriend. Wishing she could get him more permanently, she sighed.

“What’s the matter, Cookie?”

“Just thinkin’.”

“’Bout what?”

“You and me and a dog named Boo.”

“Funny.” He let the silence fill the car temporarily. He knew what she was thinking because he had the same idea. Not that it’d ever work, but he was more than willing to try. Instead of speaking his mind, he stared out at the stretch of freeway before them. The darkness of the night overpowered the streetlights overhead. Visibility was almost nothing but Ali was an accomplished driver. She’d driven in much worse.

Contemplating what was to come, and ultimately how it’d end, he stared at the play of the headlights in the rain. The halogens were broken up into shards of light by the storm. Solid for a moment, then shattered by the wind and rain. The gusts of wind and downpour of rain echoed Blake’s scattered thoughts and torrent of emotions. He looked at Ali as she concentrated on the road.

“Next exit, almost home.” She glanced quickly at him and frowned. “Don’t think so much. It’s not good for you.”

“Sorry. Just wondering how I’m gonna leave you later.”

“Easy. Don’t.” She grinned mischievously. “Well, not until you have to, anyway.”

Blake grinned despite himself. “Works for me.”

“Good, because we’re home.”

Ali turned into the drive and paused, waiting for the garage to open. “All ashore,” she teased, pulling in and closing the door behind her.

~*~

He sat on the edge of the bed and watched her getting dressed in the moonlight. It was time to go. The call had come half an hour ago, probably when they discovered he wasn’t in his room. Taking her hand as she passed, he pulled her close to him.

“As much as I’d like to, I doubt your band is going to want to wait another hour or two.”

“You don’t have to drive me back. I can call a cab. Stay here and stay warm.”

“Uh-uh. The storm’s died down and besides, I don’t know when I’m gonna see you again. I can’t just let you walk out my door.” She looked away from his pleading blue eyes. “Anyway, at least this way it feels like I have some kind of control.” She let out a long breath. “Here, put your shirt on. We’ve gotta get moving.”

“This sucks.”

“You said it, babe.”

The words had only barely left her mouth before she found herself flat on her back, with Blake smiling down at her. He was still shirtless, looking good in nothing but his jeans. He had his cell phone in his hand and a grin on his face.

“What are you doing?”

Stealing a quick, chaste kiss, he quieted her. “Shhh…” He dialed and listened intently. “Hey. Yeah. It’s me. Look, head on home without me. I’m gonna stick around here for a bit.” Silence. “No, I’ll catch a plane in a few days.” More silence. Blake laughed. “Noooo, nothing like that. What makes you think I’d be shacking up with someone?” He gave Ali a look that spoke volumes. “Nope, I won’t forget. Ha, ha, very funny. Yeah. Have a safe trip. See ya in a few. ‘Kay. Bye.”

Smiling, he closed his phone and tossed it onto the nightstand. Placing a small kiss on her forehead, he whispered, “Happy New Year, babe.” He snuggled down close to her. “Now I don’t have to leave until you throw me out.”

Ali laughed and closed her eyes, enjoying the sensation of his dark curls against her face as he buried his nose in her neck. “As if that’s going to happen!”

“Yeah,” he agreed. “As if.”

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 1

2008-10-08T15:46:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: Sure as hell is a good thing I don’t have any avid readers as I just posted a chapter and removed it because DOH it was the WRONG ONE. LOL Sorry…

Chapter 1: Rainy Day Blues

Ali looked up from her report to gaze out at the cloudy, grey skies. Sighing at the beauty of a rainstorm in the desert, she forced herself to buckle down and get back to work. If only her mind would cooperate.

Raindrops pounded against the window overlooking her neglected herb garden. Herb forest, as her charming brother Albie referred to it. Basil gone wild. Mint and oregano bushes. That sort of thing. At least the rain kept the bees at bay.

Giving up on the report for the time being, she left her desk and walked to the window. Gazing at the green herbs, her thoughts wandered to her missing half.

“Where are you, Cowboy?” she asked herself. “And are you thinking of me?”

They’d parted ways ten days ago in this same city. He’d called a few times; so had she. He’d even sent her a text or two in the last week and a half. But it wasn’t the same. It certainly wasn’t ‘enough’. Enough what? She wasn’t sure. All she knew was that it wasn’t enough.

Thunder rumbled in the distance followed quickly by a flash of light. Ali hugged her arms around herself and leaned sideways against the wall. The emptiness inside her grew a bit.

“Why aren’t you here?” she whispered.

The sound of her cell phone ringing startled her out of her reverie. Smiling at the caller ID display, she answered, “Hey gorgeous, where are you?”

“You stole my line,” he teased. “So, what are ya up to these days?”

Ali laughed. “Not much. Trying to finish the last of the paperwork left over from the ‘Hick Incident’ as HQ is calling it. Then, in a week, I’m being shipped out again; destination unknown.”

“Unknown?”

“Well, until I’m debriefed, it’s unknown. Classified, rather. Other than that, I’m just standing here watching the rain.”

“I’ve always liked rainy days. Makes a small town even smaller.”

“Yeah, I’m sure.” The silence hung easily between them. “Well, I guess I should finish my report. I’ve got a chair by the fire and a cup of hot chocolate calling my name.”

“Oh. Um, okay.”

“Blake?”

“Yeah?”

“I miss you. A lot.”

“Me too.” He gave a short laugh. “I mean I miss you too.”

“I knew what ya meant, Cowboy.”

“Good.” He paused, taking a deep breath. “When can I see you again?” he said in a rush. “How long are you going to be gone?”

Ali sighed. “I really don’t know, Blake. These assignments can last anywhere from a day or three to several months. This last assignment, your assignment, lasted three months.”

“Crap.”

“My thoughts exactly. I wouldn’t think it would take any longer than 6 weeks, from what I already know about it, which would put me back here around the middle of December.”

“That’s too long. I’m not sure I can wait until December!”

“You are so sad, Cowboy.”

“I can’t help it,” he said in small voice. “I’ve never needed anyone like this before.”

She bit into her bottom lip, feeling as if that pit in her chest had opened up and swallowed her whole. “I don’t know what to tell you. I wish we could make a date for New Year’s, but I have no way of knowing if I’ll be home by then.” Or alive even, she thought in horror. Her upcoming assignment was not a pleasant one.

“Alright, alright…” he began. “How ‘bout Valentine’s Day? That’s longer than I want to wait, but you should be home by February, right?”

“I would hope so.”

“Good. It’s a date then, Cookie. I’ll just miss you until then, I guess.”

“Sorry. Wish there was another option but there just isn’t.” Ali took a deep breath; let it out slowly. She hated what she had to tell him next. “Are you going to be okay while I’m gone? You know you won’t be able to have any kind of contact with me.” Tensely, she waited for the explosion.

“What! Why? How…”

“Blake, honey, I’m being sent out of the country and secrecy is our primary priority. I’m sorry,” she finished lamely.

“How am I gonna keep from going crazy? Not knowing if you’re okay or not? What if…” his voice caught slightly, “… if something happens?”

Her stomach tightened at the hitch in his voice. “I’ll be checking in with HQ regularly. I’ll make sure Albert calls you with updates. It’s the best I can do.”

“Okay,” he agreed sullenly. “I guess it’s better than nothing.”

“Thank you for understanding. It’s hard for me too. I hate leaving my friends, my family really, and I hate leaving you.”

“Glad to hear it.”

She smiled at the sound of the smirk in his voice. “Gee, thanks, honey.” Smiling to herself, she listened to him breathe for a moment, remembering a time she made his heart pound and his breath ragged. “I always miss the simple things the most. The phone calls. The sound of you breathing beside me. Chocolate. That kind of thing. I’ll call you the minute I’m back in the states, okay?”

“You better. I’ve got some more of that breathing to do, ya know?”

Catching his not-so-subtle hint, she laughed out loud. “Sure, I’d be happy to help ya with that. But seriously, as much as I like this, I have got to get this paperwork done. Caleb was kind enough to let me bring it home with me and not make me return to DC with him to finish it. But, he also expects it by morning, so I’ve gotta get working.”

The sound of his sigh saddened her. “Okay. Just don’t forget about me, okay?”

“Not so sure that I could do that if I tried, Cowboy.”

“Watch out for yourself, okay?”

“Always. And take care of you, too, right?”

“Right.” Pause. “Miss you, babe.”

“Miss you too, Cowboy. Talk to you soon.”

“Yeah. Bye.”

Ali closed her cell phone and looked back out at the rain. It had picked up while she was on the phone. Water poured from the heavens in a steady stream. Clean. Refreshing. Cleansing. So why’d she feel like crying suddenly?

“So?”

“So what, Albie?” She didn’t turn to acknowledge him, afraid of what he might see on her face. Albert Rogan knew her a bit too well.

“Sooo, how’d he take the bad news?”

“And what makes you think it was even him?”

“Because you still have your back to me, for one.”

Damn. “He wasn’t too happy at first, but he’s okay with it now, I guess.” She wasn’t sure at all, but he didn’t need to know that.

“That’s good news.”

“I guess.” She turned to face him finally. “You’re gonna have to fulfill your promise now, though.” Seeing the mug of hot chocolate in his hands, she smiled.

He held it out to her. “I even remembered the whipped cream, see?” He waved towards the puff of white floating in her drink. “I had every intention of keeping my promise, even if you hadn’t asked. I know what he’s come to mean to you.”

Ali met his eyes, surprised, her drink halfway to her mouth. “You what?”

“It’s only obvious. If nothing else, spending all that time with him on the road, I knew you’d become friends at least. He’s too nice of a guy not to like.” He watched as she sipped her hot chocolate. “And when you add in his odd sense of humor and those blue eyes, I knew you’d be hooked.”

“Am I that transparent?”

“No, I just knew you were that lonely. Now, don’t argue with me,” he stopped her before she could get started. “Hell, I’m in the same boat, remember? If it wasn’t for you, I’m not sure I’d even remember what a woman was.”

Ali rolled her eyes at him and smiled. “Thank you. For everything.”

“You’ll get my bill in the mail.”

“No doubt,” she grinned, rolling her eyes once more.

Code Red 2: Life Sentence: Info

2008-10-08T15:07:00.001-07:00

Okay, so it’s been awhile. And I have no excuse because, if you had any idea how many pieces I have written in this series, you’d shoot me for holding them hostage. Or well, maybe not. LOL

Anyway, I’ve been trying to find a better way to tie the first part in with what came after, and I think I have come to a workable solution. If not, I’m sure you’ll let me know. *glares at certain somebodies* This might take longer to get posted and updated because things have changed in Ali’s world since I first started writing this and I need to make sure I have all my fact straight. LOL Can’t have Ali complaining now, can I? She does enough of that crap without a reason. GIVE her a reason? *shudders*

LOL

Happy Wednesday Faithful Reader (or two)!

~Mika

Sorry, Wrong Goddess

2008-10-08T14:58:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Notes: Written in October 2007, this was written after discovering The Seventh Sanctum and it’s Grimoire of Questionable Spells. Do I really need to go any farther?

He whirled his wand in the air and pointed it at the angry shopkeeper. He’d been yelling, screaming and throwing a tantrum for nearly fifteen minutes, ever since the brothers had crashed through his storeroom wall with their stolen go kart. “Hear me now, Goddess Ophisti, save this man from himself!”

A bright green blast of light shot forward out of his wand, hitting the angry man square in the chest. The shopkeeper stumbled backwards, flailing his arms in a desperate attempt to keep his balance. Falling backwards, he landed in a pile of empty boxes that had been scattered by the crash.

All was quiet for about thirty-five seconds when the once-angry shopkeeper leaped up and looked around nervously. Flinging an arm to the side, he smashed a box of Cheez-Its, causing them to fall to the floor, adding to the mess in the storeroom.

“What the hell is going on here?” the shopkeeper asked quickly. “Why are all these boxes on the floor? Why are you two back here? This is my store and I don’t want you here can’t have you here now you’ve gotta go. Didn’t you hear me? You’ve gotta get out of here now before I call the police!”

Roderick looked at his twin, eyes wide. “My gods, he didn’t even take a breath. Who the heck did you invoke anyway?”

Ramos shrugged. “Ophisti, the goddess of calm.”

“No, you dork!” Roderick declared, smacking his younger brother in the head. “Ophelti is the goddess of calm. Ophisti is the goddess of chaos in small doses!”

“Oh crap,” Ramos muttered, paling visibly. “You know what this means then?”

“What? That instead of hitting him with the laser of collected thoughts you hit him with the luminous ray of caffeine? You idiot! Sometimes I’m ashamed to be your twin.”

Friendship Quotes

2008-10-08T08:46:00.001-07:00

My best friend has been collecting these and sending them to me. Thought I’d share a few since I’m leaving tomorrow morning to go see her. Can anyone else here just SEE Dakotah in the Old West?

Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. Just walk beside me and be my friend. – Albert Camus

I no doubt deserved my enemies, but I don’t believe I deserved my friends. – Walt Whitman.

Friends are the family we choose ourselves. – Edna Buchanan

Only real friends will tell you when your face is dirty. – Sicilian Proverb

Friends are the little prize in the cereal box of life. – Anonymous

LOL Okay, no more for today. I have a ton more though, so keep your eyes peeled. :)

Mika

So You Want to Be A Writer?

2008-10-03T17:52:00.001-07:00

Amazingly well written article here, on Ms Beth Kery's blog. Go check it out.

(Thanks Beth and not that you could write anything bad!)

Mika

I Walk Alone

2008-10-01T06:30:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: And apparently that's truer than I thought. LOL Posted this to another group and didn't get a single response. Not even a 'You suck, give it up'. Hmmm... must be worse than I thought. *G* Ah, the Muse will smite me for that one, I suppose.

I walk alone

Watching, waiting

Always wondering where

This life I lead will take me

Will you still be there

Always by my side or

Will your memory wilt

And fade like a dream gone by

The future holds unknown

Every answer I seek

Time will tell

But until that day

I forever walk alone

Dakotah: Interlude ~ Bring Me the Sunset in a Cup

2008-09-29T15:34:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: Yet another inspired by a writing challenge. This one was based on the first line of an Emily Dickinson poem of the same name. This particular piece is just a little over two years old. Poor Sierra. LOL

“Bring me the sunset in a cup…” quote the vampire. “Or how about in a bottle, little one?”

The dark-haired infant squirmed in his crib as his papa picked him up. Dakotah situated his small son against his chest and walked out of the nursery, applying the bottle of breast milk and blood to his lips.

Austen grasped at the bottle of pinkish liquid and sucked for all he was worth. Suck. Suck. Sigh. Suck. Suck. Big sigh. The vampire just shook his head and continued out into the living room where the little dhampir’s mama sat waiting.

“What was that you were mumbling back there?” she asked as she took her son.

“Poetry.”

“Poetry?” Sierra cocked an eyebrow. “A vampire who quotes poetry?” She shook her head. “Now, I really think I’ve seen everything.”

“You ain’t seen nothin’ yet,” Dakotah grinned, doing his best ‘punk’ impersonation.

“Sheesh. What a dork.”

“I’d be careful if I were you, Sierra. This dork has fangs.” He gave her a mock growl.

“Oh yeah. Riiight. Fangs. I think they’re how I got into this situation in the first place,” she lifted the baby outward just a bit to indicate she meant him. “Like I’m sooo scared.”

“Bring me the sunset in a cup,” he began. “Reckon the morning’s flagons up, And say how many dew:”

Sierra raised both eyebrows and looked at her husband oddly.

“Tell me how far the morning leaps, Tell me what time the weaver sleeps, Who spun the breadths of blue!”

“Wow. I’m impressed.”

“It’s Emily Dickinson, and just the first verse. I became enamored of the poem the moment I first read it all those years ago. Nothing has spoken to me quite like these words. It defines a piece of my life that no one quite understands.” He paused and watched her burp their son. “Well, no one that isn’t like me, that is.”

Dakotah walked over and sat beside Sierra. “Please, let me have him again.” Once Austen was nestled quietly against his chest, he went on. “It’s almost like, ‘tell me a story’ and tell me about the day, all you see, all you experience without me by your side. “

“Interesting. So, what brought all this on?”

“I’m not quite sure,” he confessed. “I think it was something about the color of Austen’s dinner.”

Sierra studied her husband for a moment realizing that even after all this time there was still a world of things she did not know about him, and most of which she may never get the chance to discover. That there was more depth to this supposed creature of the night than there was to most ‘deep thinkers’ of her time. She smiled as she wondered what this meant for their child and what kind of man he’d grow to be.

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 4

2008-09-29T15:26:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: I’m not sure about this chapter, I teenk it sucks. And not in the same way Dakotah does. LOL Oh well ~ this is what I get for taking so long to get where I was going. *sigh*

Sierra screamed as her heart started beating again. Painfully hard. Awareness flared around her, light stabbing her eyes. Blinking rapidly, she looked around at the scared and concerned faces surrounding her. “What happened?” she whispered.

Dr. Anders cleared his throat. “Apparently, you have a weak heart, Sierra. Giving birth nearly killed you.”

Her eyes widened in fear. “The baby…”

“…is fine,” Dakotah reassured her. “He’s healthy and screaming in the nurse’s arms.”

“Where?”

“In the lobby,” Cheyenne squeezed her sister’s arm. “Are you okay?”

Sierra began to nod yes and then shook it no instead. “I’m not sure. Why do I feel so… weird?”

“Weird how,” Dr. Anders questioned.

She shrugged. “I don’t know how to explain it. Things seem… brighter, clearer somehow.”

“Damnit,” Dakotah growled, “you promised.”

Backing away from the angry vampire, the doctor held up his hands protectively. “I didn’t think…”

“Think? No you surely didn’t think Doctor!”

Before Dakotah could rip out anyone’s throat, Sierra interrupted anxiously, “What the hell are you two arguing about.”

Dakotah scrunched his face up into a look of disgust and despair, an odd combination on so elegant a face. “He insisted I share my blood with you. He was afraid you were going to perish and that was the only way to save you. I refuse to force you to suffer like I have.” He turned and glared at the doctor. “And now it’s too late.”

Sierra was horrified. She knew the hell he suffered through day in and day out. They’d discussed this very thing time and time again, and always came to the same conclusion: neither of them wanted her to come to the dark side. “So I’m now… like you?” The last word was barely audible.

“We don’t know that yet,” Cheyenne added hopefully. “Do we?”

Reluctantly, Dakotah shook his head. “No, but the signs are all there.”

“Can’t you,” she shrugged her shoulders at a loss for a good term, “tell?”

He looked her over and noted her shinier hair, her brighter eyes, the glow to her skin and growled in his throat. But, there was still a lot of her, the human her there as well. “I can try.” Leaning in close, he took a deep breath, in through his nose and held it, briefly, before exhaling. “You still smell human, but there’s one other…”

She screamed again as he moved quicker than she could process and embedded his fangs deep in her neck. One small swallow and he stood back, wiping his mouth. “Am I okay?” Sierra wasn’t sure what had scared her more, the thought of becoming vamp or his sudden lack of respect for her humanness.

He slowly licked the remaining blood off his lips, slowly, thoughtfully. Almost like he was savoring the taste. “You taste… different, but still human. What has happened here?”

Dr. Anders looked nervous before clearing his throat. “I have no way of knowing for sure, but my guess is that she temporarily has some of your abilities. Like an energy drink will give you a temporary boost of power. I would think it should fade in time, but I have no way of knowing how this will affect her in the long run. May I draw some blood to run some tests with?”

Sierra nodded, and smiled weakly. “Only if you bring my baby to me. I can’t believe I’m still without him!”

The doctor looked horrified for a moment. “Of course, right away.”

Cheyenne stopped him before he could run out after the nurse. “Do what you have to do. I’ll get the baby so that we can get them all out of here ASAP.”

He nodded and turned back to Sierra while Cheyenne went in search of the infant. Returning almost instantly, she cradled her new nephew in her arms. Bringing him to her sister’s side, she grinned. “See? He’s perfect. Nurse says he’s adorable and healthy in every way.”

She reached for her child and held him to her chest. His tiny fists were pressed against his pale cheeks, framing two pink lips. A thatch of dark auburn hair topped his head. “What color are his eyes? He’s snoozing much too soundly for me to see.” She stroked his little arm and sighed, happy to finally have him here.

“I think they were blue,” Chey told her, grinning even more broadly. “But we’ll see soon enough, I’m sure.”

Dakotah reached out and touched his son. “I’m sure we will. Let me hold him so you can get ready.”

“Am I able?” She looked to the doctor for his confirming nod.

“Yes, just be careful. And be aware that this is not a normal child. He will require blood as well as his mother’s milk.”

“And how will I get that?” Sierra asked, concerned.

“I will procure it for him, do not worry.”

She looked at her husband as if he’d lost his mind. “How can I not worry?”

He smiled a gentle smile. “We have no idea how much he will need, but even now, I do not need much. We will figure it out and we will make it work.”

She couldn’t argue with that, not really. “Okay then. I’m ready. Are you?” Dakotah and Cheyenne both nodded. “Good. Do we have a blanket for Austen then?”

The doctor blinked for a moment until he realized she was referring to the baby. The blanket he’d been wrapped in was covered in blood and needed changing. “Yes, yes, I do and I think I even have a diaper to send him home in.”

Dakotah shook his head. “Forgot the diaper bag. Bad Mommy.”

“Hey,” Cheyenne threatened. “You be nice to her! She’s had a hard day!”

The vampire looked at his sister-in-law and laughed his first real laugh in weeks. “Oh, so she’s had a hard day, then? And I have not? Almost lost my wife and left with no idea how to raise a child on my own?”

“Oh, okay,” Cheyenne said exasperated, “you have a point.” And then something clicked. “So you decided on Austen after all?”

Sierra nodded. “Yes, I thought it had a nice sound to it – Austen James.”

She nodded in agreement. “I like it, now, let’s go home.”

“That is the best suggestion I have heard in awhile,” Dakotah agreed, wrapping his son in the new, clean blanket, and handing him to his sister-in-law. Lifting the now-dressed Sierra from the table, he nodded in the direction of the doctor. “Inform me as soon as you know something.”

“I promise.” He knew better than to lie to a vampire.

“Good.” Following Cheyenne, he carried his wife out into the lobby and into the desert night.

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 3

2008-09-26T15:59:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: I’m not very sure about this chapter, I think it’s a bit lame. But oh well. I can fix it later, I suppose.

Stretching his long limbs, Dakotah yawned. It was not like him to awaken and still be tired. He called for Sierra as he went up the stairs, letting her know he was awake finally, hoping she still was as well. At the top of the stairs, he glanced at the clock. Eleven AM?

Not trusting his eyes, Dakotah rechecked the time in the kitchen. “I’ll be damned,” he muttered to himself. Chuckling, he finished the thought with, “You may indeed, if you get lucky.” Cursing Sierra and her love of westerns, he looked out the living room window to see low-hanging, dark clouds. “Monsoon, ten o’clock,” he mumbled, smiling at the early ‘night’. “Might just be able to surprise her today.”

Intending to make a cup of his special tea, Dakotah returned to the kitchen and stumbled across the hastily scrawled note half hidden under a coffee mug on the table. Concerned, he pulled it out and read it quickly.

D—

Sierra’s in labor, took her to the doctor. Come as fast as you are able!

--Chey

“Damnit,” he growled. Looking from the clock to the clouds, he debated whether he should chance it or not. Deciding he didn’t have a choice, he grabbed his trench coat, grimacing at the thought of wearing it in the Nevada summer heat. Better than frying, he thought angrily at himself. Just make it to Anders’ office and you’ll be fine. He’s not that far away.

Taking a deep breath, Dakotah flew out the front door, slamming it behind him and raced for his truck.

~*~

“Breath, Sierra, breathe,” Cheyenne chanted, over and over.

Sierra gripped her hand while she held her sister’s leg. The other was being held by a young nurse, looking rather pale. “I don’t know if I can, I’m so tired.”

“You’re doing great,” Dr. Anders assured her, although his face said something completely different. Machines kept beeping and he was sweating. Not a good sign. A pounding at the front door distracted him. “Excuse me, I’ll be right back.”

Sierra looked up at her sister in a panic. “Where’s he going?”

Cheyenne shrugged. “I don’t know, but he damn well better not go far!”

Before she could reply, Sierra heard the doctor mumbling and a familiar voice answering. “Dakotah,” she whispered.

“But how?” Cheyenne asked, confused.

“I don’t know, but I’m not sure I care,” she gasped. “Gods, Cheyenne, this hurts!”

“You’ll be okay, Sierra, the second dose of medication hasn’t taken effect yet.”

“Sierra, baby,” Dakotah breathed, rushing to her side. “I’m so sorry.”

Sierra shook her head. “Don’t. Worry.”

He smiled a sad smile. “Don’t talk, just concentrate.” He took the nurse’s position, determined to help if he could, but afraid at what he saw.

Her blood pressure’s dropping rapidly, Dakotah, the doctor had told him. I’m not sure if her heart is going to hold out. The baby is going to be fine though. Of that at least, I am certain.

Dakotah was terrified that his beloved Sierra was suffering so. And the thought of losing her? Insane. He refused to even consider it an option. Dr. Anders was an excellent physician and he would not let him down. Not now when it was so important.

“There we go, Sierra,” the doctor shouted. “I can see his head, come on.”

Dakotah leaned in and kissed her forehead. “Be strong, baby, you can do this.”

“For you, I will,” she grunted through clenched teeth, pushing one last time, hard as she could.

“You did it,” the doctor congratulated her, handing the squirming child to his assistant for a bath. “And I’m proud of you. Both of you.”

Smiling down at his wife, Dakotah sighed. “Thank you, Dr. Anders, for everything. But mostly for being here when I couldn’t.”

“I guess this odd bit of weather worked to your advantage then.”

Dakotah nodded and squeezed Sierra’s hand. “Yes, it did, and I’m very thankful.” Sierra weakly squeezed back. “Are you feeling okay,” he asked concerned. Her grip was weakening by the second, as her face paled.

“Doctor,” Cheyenne screamed from the other side of Sierra, “do something, she’s… she’s not well!”

Anders paled even further; her heart was failing and he didn’t have the right equipment to save her. Calling an ambulance was out of the question; her body had already started to change in preparation of nursing a half-vampire infant. Sending her to a hospital would ensure she wound up in a laboratory somewhere. “I don’t know if I can.”

“What do you mean?” Dakotah spat. “You’re a doctor, save her!”

Anders shook his head. “She has a weak heart, she didn’t tell me that until her BP started to get erratic. She’s having a heart attack and I don’t think I can save her.”

“Then call 911!” Cheyenne shouted. “Or I will!”

She pulled out her phone and started to dial. “Wait!” She and Dakotah glared at the doctor, praying he had a good damn excuse. “I can’t. She… her body has been changing during the pregnancy. The baby… the baby is a dhampir – part vampire, part human. He’s going to need certain things to survive, things a human mother couldn’t provide. She goes to a hospital and…”

They all suddenly understood. She’d spend the rest of her life under a microscope. Not the kind of life they’d wish on anyone. “What do we do then?” Cheyenne’s voice was tiny in the silence.

Dr. Anders looked up and met Dakotah’s eye.

“NO!”

“Just …”

“No,” he repeated. “I won’t do this to her!”

“I’m not asking you to. I’m only asking you give her enough to save her, give her strength. Not enough to turn her.”

“I can’t.”

“You don’t and she’ll die.”

He took a deep breath, and looked into the face of his dying wife. “I don’t have any choice, do I?”

Dr. Anders shook his head. “No, but I can make this easier on you. I have an idea.”

Looking up, questions in his eyes, Dakotah asked, “And?”

“And, I’m not sure if it’ll work, but we can try.”

“Then let’s do it.” He looked to Cheyenne who nodded, once. “And you’re sure…”

“Yes,” the doctor cut him off. “Now, give me your arm.”

Dakotah obliged, handing over one thickly muscled arm. Dr. Anders withdrew a syringe from his stash and inserted it into the vampire’s vein. “I was going to have to do this anyway,” he explained, “so that the baby would have something to eat until we could explain the situation to Sierra. But now,” he laughed, “I’ll have to do it twice.” He removed the first syringe and replaced it with a second, drawing another tube of blood. “There,” he muttered, placing a cotton ball over the pinprick. “Kara, come take this,” he instructed her to empty the blood into a bottle and feed it to the infant while the others looked on.

The heart monitor attached to the new mother started to beep rapidly. “She’s not going to make it much longer, let me near her.”

The assembled family moved, warily and watched as the doctor inserted the needle into Sierra’s arm, injecting her with her lover’s blood.

“Shouldn’t you have used a clean needle,” Cheyenne asked worriedly.

Dakotah shook his head. “My kind can’t catch or spread disease. She will not suffer from the shared needle. “

Cheyenne wasn’t convinced, but she didn’t think he’d lie about something like this.

All three waited, tense, to see if the doctor’s experiment would work. Her heart rate sped while her blood pressure dropped. And then suddenly, her eyes opened. And she screamed.

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 2

2008-09-26T15:42:00.001-07:00

Dakotah smiled slightly at the sight of his wife asleep on the couch, pillow over her eyes, hands on her round belly. She’d obviously been trying to stay awake long enough to see him, but just as obviously didn’t quite make it. He bent low over her and inhaled the tempting scent of her blood, her piña colada scented cologne, and the heat of the day still lingering on her skin.

On second thought, that’s probably not cologne. It was more likely sunscreen.

Deciding that it really didn’t matter, he removed her shoes and tossed them near the doorway. Lifting effortlessly, he carried her into their room and laid her gently on the bed. Pulling the blanket over her still form, he tucked her in before crawling in beside her. He held her, rubbing her belly and enticing his child into action.

He chuckled softly at the first kick from the inside. “Yes, yes, my little one, I know you’re eager. But not much longer and you’ll be free from your prison. And you’ll have so much more room to romp and kick in.” His son agreed with a kick and a stretch, eliciting an anxious smile from the vampire. “Soon, but not soon enough, if you ask me.”

Dakotah gave Sierra’s tummy one last pat and added a kiss on the cheek. Seeing that she wasn’t about to wake up, he decided it was past time to eat. Despite hating leaving her alone, he knew he needed to go while she slept so that he wouldn’t be caught out hungry when she needed him. He’d slip out and be back in no time.

~*~

Opening her eyes, she did a double take before realizing Dakotah must have moved her into the bed when he had woken last night. She smiled knowing that only a vampire’s super strength could have lifted her heavy ass off the couch last night. Maybe two.

Cheyenne was standing in the doorway, tapping her foot anxiously. “Come on already, I thought you’d be dressed by now.”

“Sorry,” she apologized, yawning. “Tried to wait up for Dakotah last night, but the sun sets so late these days and I’m soo tire…”

“You fell asleep,” Chey finished for her.

“Yeah. Lemme go get my clothes on and we can go.” Sierra stood, stretching, when a sharp pain shot across her back and around her front, doubling her over.

Cheyenne rushed to her sister’s side, lifting her mass of red curls to reveal her pale face. “Sie? Are you okay? Want me to help you sit?”

Sierra shook her head to all of the above. “Grab my… cell phone. Quick.”

Chey nodded, rushing off to the kitchen, removing it from the charger and racing back. “Here, I have it, who am I calling?”

“Dr. Dr. Anders, please.”

Cheyenne frowned. “That’s not our regular doctor.”

She shook her head. “No, it’s not, because I’m not having a normal baby. Now, please!” She begged.

Snapping out of her shock, Cheyenne complied, waiting impatiently through the three rings until the doctor finally picked up.

“Dr. Anders, may I help you?”

“Yes,” Cheyenne gasped, “my sister, she’s having a baby!”

“I’m sorry, but I don’t deliver babies, can I direct…”

“You don’t WHAT?” Cheyenne screamed. “Why the hell did Sierra have me call you then?”

“Chey, please…” Sierra pleaded.

“Sierra?” he asked. “Sierra James?”

“Yes, you twit, that’s her!”

“What’s wrong, and who are you?”

“I’m her sister, not that that should matter and I’ve already told you – she’s having HER BABY!”

Dr. Anders closed his eyes and took a deep breath, knowing Dakotah would have his neck and everything in it if he lost his cool with the sister of his beloved Sierra. “Relax ma’am, and tell me where you are?” He listened to Cheyenne’s screaming once more and nodded. “Okay, if she’s able to walk, put her in her car and get the both of you to my office. I’ll have everything ready.” God help me.

~*~

Cheyenne slammed Sierra’s phone shut and growled. “Do you think you can walk to the car?” At Sierra’s weak nod, she helped her sister up and guided her to the car in her pajamas. After getting her settled, she raced back inside, left the vampire daddy a brief note, and took off.

~*~

Dr. Anders paced just inside the office doors, looking out for any sign of his patient. Seeing the lone car finally flash into the parking lot, he propped the door open and hurried to the passenger’s side door. Opening it, he found a very pale, very scared redhead, clutching her belly. He took Sierra’s hand and pulled. “Come on, girl, just a bit farther and we can get you ready, okay?”

Sierra nodded, feeling ill. “Sure, but Dakotah…”

“Grab her other arm and let’s go,” he ordered Cheyenne, who complied in mute agreement for once. “Now, Sierra, we’re going to have to do this together, Dakotah’s not going to be able to be by your side this time.”

She sobbed quietly, not wanting to know how he was going to react, knowing she couldn’t wait for him to awaken. “I’m sorry, Dakotah,” she whispered as they dragged her inside.

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 1

2008-09-26T11:17:00.001-07:00

Mika’s Note: This is a work in progress. Bear with me. Hopefully those that read will batter me with comments until I get my fangs in gear and finish this. LOL

She set the box of candles on the counter and gasped for breath. The pains had started two days ago and had been getting progressively worse. Sierra had ignored them for as long as possible, knowing she still had three weeks before the baby was due. Wincing at the ache in her back, she considered the idea that she just may be wrong.

Taking a glance at her watch, she saw it was only 3:30 and that the sun wouldn’t set for close to another five hours. Gotta love summer in the desert. Not only was it 118º outside today, but she couldn’t get to Dakotah until her bedtime.

“Suppose I could call Chey,” she muttered to herself, thinking of her sister. She’d just picked up her cell phone when the bell above the door tinkled merrily, announcing a customer in the shop. “Guess she’ll have to wait,” Sierra laughed, leaving the storeroom and greeting her customer. “Afternoon, how can I…” her voice ended in a laugh when she saw her sister on the other side of the counter.

“What’s so funny?” Cheyenne asked, not sure if she really wanted to know.

Sierra waved a hand in her sister’s direction. “Sorry,” she gasped, “but I was just going to call you.” She rubbed her belly and sighed. “My back hurts and I’m not sure if I should drive home or not.”

Cheyenne narrowed her eyes at her entirely too calm sister. “And how long has this been going on?”

Sierra shrugged, not wanting to either worry her easily excitable sister. “A couple days,” she tossed out, casually.

“A couple of days?” Cheyenne roared. “Are you crazy?” She shook her head at that statement, realizing that her sister was having a vampire’s baby. “Scratch that. Does Dakotah know?”

Sierra looked over Cheyenne’s shoulder and grinned. “Um, noooo, not quite,” she teased, motioning to the bright summer sun beating down on the sidewalk outside. “I’m thinking that he’s not only asleep right now, but under his bed to boot.”

She shook her head in resignation. “That’s not what I meant and you know it! If you’ve been having contractions for ‘a couple days’, you should have told him by now.”

Sierra waved her off. “He’d just worry. And if I went into labor now? He couldn’t do anything to help me. And believe me, he’d try. He stayed up for three days the first time I had one of those Braxton-Hicks contractions and trust me, it wasn’t pretty. Cranky vamp with no sleep? Shudder.”

The older woman’s stern façade cracked at the mental image of Dakotah with bags under his eyes and unkempt hair. “Okay,” she agreed, “I’ll give you that much, but you have got to tell him tonight, no excuses. Got me?”

Sierra nodded. “Got you.”

“Good, now I’ll take you home, if you’d like.”

“Please.”

Cheyenne turned the OPEN sign over to read CLOSED and straightened a few books that had been knocked askew during the course of the day. Watching Sierra close out her register and organizing things for the next morning, she wondered what would happen to the shop during her maternity leave. “Will you be closing up shop until you’re back on your feet again or do you have someone to run it for you?”

Sierra looked up from counting her receipts and stared at her sister. “You know, I hadn’t really thought about it. The few people that I know and trust enough don’t know enough about my lifestyle to operate this place effectively.”

“And those that do know and understand?”

Sierra grinned, despite the pain in her back. “Well, they’re not able to work my hours, if you catch my drift.”

She did. “So, what are you going to do?”

“Play it by ear, I guess. Most of my regulars know and are prepared. But…”

“But?”

“But, I’d hate to lose the income. I guess that’s one more thing to ask Kotah about, I have no doubt he’ll have someone to help out.”

“Well then, that’s good enough for me. Are you done over there?”

She nodded. “Yup, just let me stash this in the safe and we can go.”

The Trouble with Trees

2008-09-20T21:25:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: WOW! Less than 400 words! Whoda ever thunk it, coming from me? Idea was spurred by something someone said.

As strange as it may sound, a tree kept me in the bar all night. Yeah, I know, wishful thinking, right? But not so. You see, my ex is a freak. He can’t seem to let go and annoys me to no end on a daily basis. And my doctor wonders why I suffer from anxiety. I swear, really.

So, when he caught me out last night, he just had to approach me and get in my face. I hate that more than anything and I just so wasn’t in the mood to deal with his crap. So, when he started in with his ‘don’t you love me anymore’ and ‘why can’t we work it out’ junk, I just leaned over and kissed my new friend. Long and hard.

And she kissed me back.

Needless to say, he freaked even more than usual. Serves him right, but I digress. He ranted, he raved, and then he went out into the parking lot and pulled a chainsaw out of the trunk of his sedan. See, I told you he was a freak. He then took said chainsaw and hacked at the tree I parked underneath that evening. Dumb move, I’m now thinking.

It took three hours for the rescue team to remove the tree from my poor little Miata. Then it took another hour for the insurance adjuster to arrive, pissed at being drug out of bed at so late an hour. Police, hangers-on, and drunks surrounded me. Well, us, I suppose. Lorie stayed by my side as they hauled Karl away, screaming that he’d get me, some day, eventually. She also stayed through the insurance guy yelling at me and the two cute rescue workers declining any payment once they’d heard the full story.

Interesting the evening, to say the least.

Now, I’m not the type to go for a one night stand, least of all with another woman. But hey, anymore, I’m up to just about anything. So, Lorie’s at the door, waving to indicate the tree is now off my car and we’re clear to go.

Apparently our friendly neighborhood tree boys are following us home.

Curiouser and curioser.

But heck… after the night from hell… who am I to complain?

And see, it really was the trees fault I never made it home… at all… last week.

Male Order

2008-09-18T10:44:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: My BFF is attempting to get back into the dating scene and told me yesterday that it'd be so much easier to find a man if she could just pick one out of a catalogue. That innocent (and oh-so-honest) comment inspired this. Thanks Red, and yeah, I know, you'll never forgive me, right?

Deafened by the roar of the truck in the garage, she rubbed her temples, praying for an Advil or two. Imagine that, and I haven’t even made it inside where the kids are yet. Ali smiled to herself, forcing herself to leave the solitude of her truck’s cab. The vibrations made by the obnoxiously loud vehicle still reverberated in her head and the garage.

It’s such a man thing, she thought to herself, to have a vehicle that people can hear before they ever see it. But then, that was Blake all over. This was the man that managed to rig a custom muffler onto his tractor after all.

Laughing quietly, she grabbed her laptop and walked the fifteen feet to her mailbox. Securing her computer between her boots, she tugged open the ailing metal box and started pulling mail out. Bills, bills, and more bills, she noticed. A few ads, a letter from a friend on the other side of the country, and a thin, cardboard box.

Odd, she thought, turning the box over in her hands. I haven’t ordered anything. My Perfect Man & Co? She shook her head as the laughter bubbled out of her. Sounds like an ‘adult bookstore’ to me. Shrugging, she piled all the other mail on top of the box, lifted her laptop and headed back towards the chaos.

“Ah, thank God you’re home,” Blake announced upon seeing her. “I have to run.”

“What?” Ali asked, setting her laptop on the breakfast counter. “Where are you going?”

“To meet Billy and that brother of yours, remember?” He had a brief moment of panic, thinking he’d forgotten to tell her after all.

The light came on and she relaxed. “Of course, I forgot.”

“Can’t imagine why,” Blake teased her, flashing her his overly white teeth in a broad grin. “Thanks, Cookie.”

“Be home by curfew or else,” she teasingly threatened.

“Or else what?” he joked back, kissing her forehead.

“Come home late and you’ll find out,” she grinned back evilly.

Blake grimaced, knowing she still had her firearm stuck at the small of her back. “Yes ma’am,” he saluted before blowing her another kiss and running out the door.

~*~

With the kids fed and down for the night, Ali grabbed the mail and sat on the couch, a glass of water on the table before her. She’d just separated out the bills from the junk when the front door opened and a red head poked inside.

“Is it clear?”

“Yeah, Shana, it’s clear,” Ali laughed at her friend. “Come on in.”

“Thanks. If those rugrats of yours saw me…”

“It’d be all over but the ‘Auntie, Aunite!’” They both laughed at that; Rory and Rayna had an unnatural love for her best friend. “And, on that note, where is the little one?”

“He’s at home, asleep. I needed a few minutes alone, so I rustled up a baby sitter. Figured I’d be home long before Billy anyway.”

Ali nodded. “Yeah, and if it came to that, you could sneak home and get him and bring him back. It’d take two seconds to set up the play pen.”

Shana eyed her closely. “Don’t tempt me.”

“Aren’t you the one who always said, “Lead me not into temptation; I can find my own way?”

She just laughed evilly. “Paying bills? How exciting,” she teased. “Ali hon, I think you’ve been married too long.”

“Not paying them, not just yet. Sorting them out from the riff raff that came in today’s mail.”

“Ahh,” Shana commented, understanding. “Get anything interesting?”

“Aside from a letter from Courtney, not much.”

“She doing okay out there in Hell?”

Ali had to smile at that. Shana, being from the South had no real concept of heat and couldn’t comprehend why anyone would willingly want to live in the southwestern United States. “Yeah, seems to be enjoying her new post, so all is well.”

“That’s cool,” she was saying when she spotted the box. “What’s that?”

Shrugging, Ali had no answer. “Dunno, haven’t opened it yet.” She handed it to her friend and allowed her the honors. “Didn’t order anything so it’s probably junk.”

Ripping open the easy pull tab, Shana silently agreed. Upon getting the box open, she pulled out a hardbound book. The cover depicted a buff, bronzed man in nothing but his tighty-whiteys. “…Assembly Required: Go from slim pickens to perfect pickens in six weeks,” she read, amused.

“What the hell?” Ali asked, taking the book from her friend’s hands. Flipping through the pages, their eyes widened as they grazed over the full-color glossy pictures of men’s bodies.

“Oh my God,” Shana snorted, “I think it’s a catalogue of some sort.”

Ali closed the book and looked more closely at the cover. “I think you’re right.” She pointed to the fine print near the bottom of the front cover, near to the UPC code. “A do-it-yourself catalogue for building the perfect man.”

“No freaking way!”

“Oh heavens to Mergatroid, I think it is.”

Laying the book flat on the coffee table before them, Ali opened to the table of contents and they skimmed the page, commenting on the chapter titles.

“Introduction,” Ali quipped, seems like a good way to start a book.

“Brains vs. Brawn: How to decide if you want a smart man or a buff man.” Shana grinned, thinking on Billy for a moment. “Definitely buff over brains any day.”

Ali sighed. “Easy for you to say, I’ve got neither.”

“Aww, poor Blake,” Shana giggled, “but at least he’s cute.”

“Yeah, there is that. And look at this one, Chapter Six, Packages vs. Prowess: Should he be hung or should he have staying power?”

“Ohmigawd,” she choked, “can’t we get both?”

“Finally,” Ali laughed, “I’ve got at least one of those.”

Waggling her eyebrows, Shana grinned, “Wanna share which one?” Knowing Ali would change the subject instead of answering, she blurted, “And this! Hair and Eyes: Do blondes really have more fun? And are those baby blues worth the upgrade?”

After perusing the table of contents, they went over the color contents with a fine-toothed comb, building their ‘perfect’ man in jest. Knowing that while the men they already had were far from perfect, they were also far from rotten.

“Oh geez, look at the hair on that one,” Shana groaned. “How could anyone find that sexy?”

Ali coughed, choking on her mojito. Sometime during their perusal, they’d graduated from water to rum. “Wanna rethink that one? Last time I saw Billy without a shirt I remember thinking he needed some mowing.”

“Not my fault your man has more hair on his face than on his chest,” she teased back.

“I like it that way, thankyouverymuch.” She laughed until she saw something else that caught her eye. “How about this, you can get your skin tones in anything from albino, and that’s an actual color here, to ‘as dark as it gets’.”

“Hmmm, dial-a-tone on your man, interesting. I’ll take mine somewhere in the middle, not too dark, but not pale either.”

Ali nodded in agreement, “Me too. Like mine toasted a bit.”

(September 18, 2008)

“Toasted? Yeah, I think you are,” Shana laughed, raising her glass. Taking a sip, she noticed the time suddenly. “Damn, this has been fun, but I promised I’d be home by ten.”

Looking up, Ali noticed it was quarter past. “I’ll call home and let your sitter know you’re on your way. We can pick this up at work tomorrow.”

Shana leered and giggled, “You can count on that.”

She shook her head and watched her friend climb into her car and drive off. Satisfied that she’d be okay, Ali called ahead and let Shana’s temporary replacement know she’d be home before long. “Guess I ought to check on the kids and put myself to bed as well,” she muttered walking down the hallway, turning off all but the entrance light.

~*~

The alarm jolted her out of sleep, startling her awake. Ali stretched and yawned, looking beside her to make sure her husband had made it home in one piece. He evidently returned sometime during the night. The drool on the pillow proved he’d been home for at least a couple hours. He didn’t start that until he’d been asleep at least three hours.

She’d been in the shower before it hit her. The build-a-man catalogue. Ali started to laugh at the absurdity of her subconscious mind. “What a bizarre dream,” she told the shampoo. “Just one question, is somebody trying to tell me something?”

Having gotten herself together for the day, she holstered her gun and reached for her cell phone, pressing the talk button and dialing Shana, intending to make sure Billy had made it home as well. “Morning,” she greeted her long-time friend, closing the bedroom door behind her. “How are you feeling this morning?”

“Not too shabby. Billy stumbled in sometime after two this morning, I think.”

“Sounds about right,” Ali agreed. “I have to tell you, I had the strangest dream last night.”

“Really?” Ali was known for her bizarre dreams and any mention of one perked those who knew her right up. “Was it juicy?”

Ali snorted. “Not quite, but it had potential. I got a catalogue in the mail,” she began, entering the living room and spying her glass of water and grinning, “and it was a build your own man spec book.”

“Oh my God, you’ve got to be joking!” Shana exclaimed. “Did you share with me?”

“Yeah, we actually looked at it together and…” her voice trailed off as her eyes spotted a piece of cardboard on the floor.

“And?” Shana urged.

“And we built our perfect men.” Moving to the far end of the coffee table, she found the box. What the hell?

“Sounds like fun to me, although I am pretty partial to the one I’ve already got.”

“Yeah,” Ali agreed distractedly. “Me too, usually. Um, can I talk to you in a bit?”

“Sure, I need to finish getting dressed anyway. See you in ten.”

“Yeah, see you.” Ali pressed the end button and stared at the coffee table. And the catalogue from My Perfect Man & Co. sitting on top of it.

A Day in the Life

2008-09-18T08:30:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: Sadly, this really DID happen. And even scarier? They HIRED HIM.

99.5% of the time I love my job, I really do. I like talking to people. I like the joking and teasing and good humor of the plumbers I work with. But every now and then, things go bad fast.

My number 1 pet peeve is stupid people. If you're confused or you just don't understand,that's one thing, and entirely understandable. Even if you just forgot, which is annoying as hell, it's still understandable. But when you're just plain stupid? I don' get it.

Today's example:

We're hiring, right? Okay, no big deal, or so you would think. However, a 'help wanted' ad seems to bring out every freak and crazy person in the valley. Along with all the stupid ones as well. I cannot tell you how many calls a day I get during an ad run asking if we are still hiring plumbers. Nope, sorry, we're only looking for electricians today. DOH! We're a PLUMBING company you freak! Of COURSE we're looking for plumbers!

But I digress.

Not long after I arrived this morning, I got a typical call.

Me: "Good morning, Blade Plumbing, how may I help you?"

Freak du Jour: "I saw your ad in the paper."

Me, rolling eyes: "Yes. And?"

Freak: "Are you still hiring plumbers?"

Me, resisting the urge to tell him the ad only started today and that um, yeah, we're still hiring. "Of course, come on in and put in an application."

Freak: "Well, you know, gas prices are high right now and I'd rather not come all the way down if I'm not going to get the job."

Me, grasping phone in a choke hold: "Well, they don't do phone interviews and if you're experienced, I'm sure there won't be an issue with you getting hired." Didn't tell him we were rather desperate at that point.

Long silence and then Freak: "Oh, okay." Disgusted sigh. "I'll come down. Where are you located?"

So, I, being the amazingly organized and efficient secretary that I am, give him our address, cross streets, and some brief directions. Now, several years ago, we expanded our building and now share it with a communications company. Their doors are locked for security reasons and you have to call up to get clearance to be let in. Us, not so much, but you have to tell people it seems because they miss the very obvious, very bright green sign hanging over our door. So, I tell him: "When you get here, pull into the first driveway and park in the parking lot. You'll see a big, bright sign with Blade Plumbing on it."

Freak: "Okay, I'll be there in an hour."

Four hours later, I get another call.

Me: "Good afternoon, Blade Plumbing, how may I help you?"

Freak from Earlier: "You're not here."

Me, wondering WTF this guy is smoking. "Yes, we are. Our door is set back from the main building some, but there's a..."

Freak, who is beginning to tick me off. "No, you're not. I'm in your parking lot and you're not here."

Me, now wishing he was sharing whatever it was: "Okay, where are you?"

Freak: "You're across from the paper company, right?"

Me: "Right. And where are you?"

"I'm in the lot directly across from the paper company, and you're not there."

Me, thinking the hell I'm not, if I wasn't we wouldn't be having this inane conversation.: "Yes we are. Stay right where you are and I'll come out and get you."

And that's exactly what I did. I got up from my desk and poked my head into our Estimator, Jordan's, office. Luckily, his brother, Davis, was there as well since he's the one doing the hiring. "I'm going downstairs to prove to this freak that we are where I said we are. My advice? Don't hire him. He's in the parking lot and can't find us." Leaving them staring after me, I went down the stairs, out the front door and into the parking lot. I found him standing four cars down from the front door, unable to locate the BIG FREAKING SIGN above the door.

And yeah, they hired him.

And you wonder why I'm a Mad Secretary, right?

Dakotah: Interlude: A Vampire in Wal*Mart

2008-09-16T14:26:00.001-07:00

This was written in January 2005 and follows directly after Sierra's story. Poor Kotie.

Things change when you’ve been dead a couple hundred years. I discovered that again just this evening. You see, I’ve been dating a woman 270-something years younger than me (give or take a couple decades), and tonight she’s told me that the impossible has happened.

We’re going to have a baby.

Now, I don’t know how this happened. Well, I know the theory of how and the science behind it but what I don’t understand is the how of it. After all, I’m dead, aren’t I? I guess I’m more alive than I previously thought.

Not even our resident vamp doc quite understands it all. Although, I think he’s holding out on us.

Which is why I’m here. In Wal*Mart. Searching for baby clothes, cribs, and all that goes with having an infant in your home. Unfortunately, there isn’t much open at this time of night. Even in Las Vegas, your options are limited at 2:30 in the morning.

I’m a lucky vampire. I have a beautiful redheaded witch who loves me and doesn’t mind a boyfriend who has a tendency to be a pain in the neck. She takes care of my day-to-day operations and ensures that no one opens the blinds in my bedroom at lunchtime. Despite the fact that she’s been tempted to do exactly that on occasions, she cares enough to resist the urge and I’m thankful. She’s self-supporting and owns her own business. A very modern witch. What more could a bloodsucker want?

But this. What do I do with this? A baby? Seriously. I haven’t been a father since I was turned three hundred and some years ago. My son was only a toddler then. Now he and his mother are nothing more than dust. Every last parenting skill I might have ever had is dust along with them.

Sweet Sierra. She’s too good to me. In an effort to ease my anxiety, she has purchased nearly every book she can find on fathering and parenting. And even one or two on being an older father. I doubt that I’m what they had in mind when they wrote those. Not that I can really comprehend much of what was inside those books. During the short period of time I was a father, my duty was to keep my family from being murdered and hopefully bring some money in. Everything else was up to my wife.

I am so not prepared for this.

So here I still am, at Wal*Mart, at 2:45 on a Wednesday morning. Pink or blue? Yellow or green? How am I supposed to know? My son wore black, white and grey. Not much else was allowed for young men back then. They aren’t kidding when they say things were better in the good ole days.

I’m in over my head, I think. When I get home I’m going to leave my credit card for Sierra and let her do the shopping. After all, what’s the rush? There’s still 30 weeks to go until D-Day.

And there’s no doubt she’ll know better than I do.

Sierra: Part 2

2008-09-16T14:20:00.001-07:00

Not a whole lot to warn you about in this story. No sex, very little language, but a bit of suggestion. :) And um, okay, so I had a hard time breaking this apart and you got two pieces. LOL Also, forgive my formatting... I never bothered to fix that, either. LMAO.

That's how it started.

Here's what happened next:

Dakotah remained estranged from me for many months. It wasn't until after Angie and Peyton split ways that I saw him again...

~*~

I was just turning off the shower when the phone started ringing. Expecting the answering machine to pick up, I reached out and grabbed my towel and began drying.

Three rings. Stop. Three more rings. Stop again.

Odd. Whoever was calling was hanging up before the machine could pick up. Grunting, I wrapped the towel around me and waddled damply to my phone. Looking at the caller ID, I noticed Angie's number. Before I could even think to call her, the phone rang in my hand.

"Hello?"

"Jeez Sierra! Where have you been?"

"In the shower, Ang. What's it to you?" Man, she was agitated. "You could've left a message."

"What? To tell you I dumped Peyton? Not hardly!"

"What?" It was my turn to ask this. "Why'd you dump him? I thought things were going good."

A heavy sigh came over the phone. "It *was* but not now. He was always gone at night. I couldn't ever get a hold of him during the day. He was becoming possessive and impossible!"

I counted to ten before responding. This sounded like every other guy she'd ever dated to me. "Sorry to hear that. Any idea why?"

"Yeah. Other women. LOTS of other women. I'm such an idiot."

"Nah," I consoled. We all make mistakes. Big ones sometimes," like letting a gorgeous man getting away without even getting his number, I thought. "Don't worry about it too much."

"Yeah," she agreed. "Maybe you're right." She was quiet for a moment, then: "There is this cute guy in my biology lab that's been asking me out..."

"There you go! Perfect!"

"Thanks! He left me his number; maybe I'll go call him. Thanks, Sierra. I knew you'd help!"

"Anytime," I lied. She was just too easy to 'convince' when it came to men. Angie wasn't a whore, but it didn't take much to coerce her into dating someone. Oh well. She just moves on. Wish I could.

I'd just put down the phone and was on my way back to my room when the phone rang again. Expecting Angie again, I answered the phone: "So what now? Need permission to sleep with him too?"

"Excuse me?" came that sultry voice I never thought I'd hear again. "While I admit to a dalliance or two in the past, I've been quite content with women for a very long time."

Oh my goddess! "Dakotah? Is that you? I'm so sorry! I was expecting Angie again and she's always looking for approval for whatever crazy idea she already has. I..."

"Shh, it's quite all right." He was laughing at me which *wasn't* 'quite all right'. "I found myself at your doorstep this evening and was wondering if you had plans for the evening."

"No," I said then kicked myself. THAT sounded desperate. "I mean, not yet. What brings you over here after so long?" I have to admit I was fishing.

"I'd finally decided I'd been too long without you and your company. May I come up?"

"I'm naked." DOH! Idiot! "I mean, I just got out of the shower and haven't gotten ready yet. I'm a mess."

"You're lovely as you are. Please, go get dressed. Leave that paint off your face. You've got a lovely complexion; don't ruin it with that stuff."

I was dumbfounded. NEVER had a man told me to forget the spackle. Hmm...

"I'll patiently wait down here until you're ready."

Quick moral debate. Morals lose. "Come on up. I'll let you in and then get dressed."

He arrived at my door in half a minute. I let him in and retreated to my bedroom practically floating. He was, if possible, even *more* gorgeous than before.

"What were you planning?" I called from behind my half-closed door.

"Nothing fancy, just a walk in the moonlight maybe. Dress comfortable."

That, I like. Comfy. Jeans, Hello Kitty T-shirt, Nikes.

He slowly appraised me as I emerged from my room. His amazing blue eyes devoured me from head to toe and back again. "Perfect. You look perfect."

Without another word, he took my hand and led me out of my apartment and onto the sidewalk. We walked towards the park and basked in the light of the nearly full moon. He didn't speak again until we'd passed through the park and back again. At my door, he paused and considered me carefully.

I was flying high right then. My prince had returned! "Come on, we can talk inside." I turned to go in and he stood on the mat.

"Sierra, I came tonight to apologize for something that happened when we were last together. I did something inexcusable.”

Inexcusable? I didn't remember much but I knew it couldn't have been THAT. There wasn't any way. My neck was the only thing sore that morning. Well, that and my head.

"*Please* come inside. I have *extremely* nosy neighbors."

He contemplated that for a minute and reluctantly stepped inside. I curled up in my favorite chair, waiting for the bomb to drop. He remained standing, pacing, wearing a hole in my already sad carpet.

"I took advantage of you last time we met." I started to protest and he waved me quiet. "No, not in the way you're thinking. We regrettably did not have intercourse but... I did trespass upon your body in a way I shouldn't have."

Okay, if you say so. "I'm confused. If we didn't have sex, then how did you take advantage of me? Did you rob me?"

Wearily shaking his head, he sighed, "No, my dear. It's not that simple." He paced some more. "How should I say this? I'm not like other men you've met."

Ain't that the truth, I thought to myself. I've never met a god before.

"That's not what I meant either," he replied to my thoughts, startling me. "But I am happy to see you find me desirable."

"Okay, now you're freaking me out. HOW did you know what I was thinking?"

He caught my gaze again like he did that night but this time I didn't feel my body yielding to his like before but I was unable to look away. His hands lightly gripped my wrists. :I'm not human. I'm a creature of the night. That night, I took your blood and not your innocence. It doesn't matter anyway because I didn't have your permission to do so.:

He released his hold on me. I blinked rapidly trying to take in what he'd just revealed to me. "Why are you telling me this? Why didn't you just erase my memory or kill me off?"

"Because in all my three hundred and more immortal years, never have I come across someone such as you. Only once, in my mortal life, did I know someone like you. My wife. She was lost to me the night I became what I now am." He paused and looked out my window. "But that's a story for another night."

I remained silent. What do you say to something like that? I mean, how often do you have supernatural creatures confessing in your living room? Not often on my block!

"You have an old soul, Sierra. I'm not going to tell you you're my wife reincarnated because I don't think you are. But you aren't new to this earth. You've walked this path before. There's a reason things come easy to you. Baking, healing, working magic." His eyes met mine and he went on. "I've been looking for someone like you for a long time."

In the midst of trying to find the right words, he pressed his lips against mine, gently at first, but quickly with growing passion. With one arm snaking around my waist, he pulled me against him. I could feel the hard lines of his body and the tips of his protruding fangs as his tongue pushed into my mouth. Gasping for breath from the unexpected kiss, I stared up into his eyes.

"I'm sorry," he began, backing away. "I couldn't stop..."

I grabbed his wrist and stopped his retreat. "Kiss me again," was all I managed before he was on me again.

~*~

Being the lady that I am, I will leave it at that. He tasted my blood again that night, bringing us both more pleasure than we knew possible, but just a nip and no more. Dakotah was determined to court me in his old-fashioned way and I was bound to let him. It's nice being courted. And taking just a sip was his way of letting me know he respected me for more than a meal.

I now live with him in his place on the outskirts of town. Or, what used to be the outskirts. This city has grown so much, there isn't much outskirt left. The wildest parts of town are the more densely inhabited areas instead of the dry, desert areas of old.

We've lived here for close to 18 months together. It was the best decision I'd ever made. I just hope I still have a place to live in the coming months. He's a good guy, yes, but he's not always that understanding. Besides, it's going to be quite a shock. All these years he didn't believe he could father a child. A big shock. Three hundred plus years is a *long* time to go believing something only to have it proven wrong.

~*~

So, are you still with me? Good! Glad I could entertain you. Now, I've got to go rest my ever-expanding body and prepare for the influx of trick-or-treaters. Might as well try and think of a way to break this interesting bit of news to my blood-sucking, creature-of-the-night, father-to-be too.

What's that? The truth? Come right out with it? Nah, it'll never work. I'd wind up with more than the usual hickey he gives me, I think.

Guess it's a good thing it's Halloween. At least no one would notice his fangs as he's chasing me down the street.

Maybe I can convince him it was aliens...

Sierra: Part 1

2008-09-16T14:10:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: This story isn't very long, only a little over 4,000 words, so instead of chapters, I think I'll just break it up into 3 or 4 parts. And I also just came to the realization that I never did fix this story to fit with Dakotah, so I'm thinking she'll be having a flashback later, in another story. *sigh* Why do I do these things to myself?

Originally written October 2003.

The Witching Hour. All Hallow's Eve. My night to howl, so to speak.

I think I've been spending entirely *too* many nights howling lately. Or, at least, that's what my body's telling me. Sick as a dog, no energy, grouchy to the extreme. Yup, my body's *definitely* telling me something.

I'm gonna be a Mama.

Which, under ordinary circumstances, wouldn't be so bad. But I've got a problem. No, no... my boyfriend didn't leave me. No, he doesn't beat me or otherwise abuse me. Nope, he's as loving and considerate as any one man can be. And he's hot to boot. The problem is much more serious than that.

You see, my boyfriend's a vampire.

Yeah, you heard right. Vampire. As in neck-biting, blood-sucking, turning-into-a-bat-and-flying-away vampire. Well, maybe not turning into a bat...

But the neck-biting is good. Too good.

He doesn't know. Not yet. Gods, not yet. But in time he will. Soon. I'm running out of time. And excuses.

So, I gather from that look on your face that you're wondering how all this happened. Well, it's a long story. I'd be happy to tell you if you're content to sit and listen.

You are? Well, get comfortable we'll be here awhile...

~*~

It was Samhain, or Halloween if you must, three years ago tonight. I was decked out in all my witchy glory and headed out with a group of friends to a newly discovered club they'd been invited to. It was supposed to be full of really hot guys, one friend had confided. Truth to be told, it was full of really *COLD* guys. Cold as in dead, or more appropriately, Undead. But we didn't discover that until later.

We headed out in my best friend Angie's car. With six of us packed into her Toyota, we joked and teased as we made our way over towards UNLV and the plethora of trendy bars and hangouts that surrounded the campus. I'd always wondered who thought to put that school so close to not only the airport but the Strip as well. Just what college kids need - easy access to booze, women and gambling. And a fast way out. But I digress...

"Sierra, I'm shocked."

"Shocked? Why Angie?"

"Look at you! Black cape, long peasant dress, Tinkerbell wand... It's not like you to perpetuate stereotypes. All you're missing is a tall, pointy hat."

"Sorry Ang, I left the hat at home with my broom." Laughing at myself, I continued, "Nah, but it IS Halloween. I just thought I'd dress so everyone *else* would know I was a witch."

"According to Donny," chimed in Celia, another girlfriend, "you don't need to dress up."

"Yeah, well, what does Donny know?" I mumbled, trying not to think too much about my recent ex. "After all, he does prefer Lana to us."

We all laughed in an attempt to erase Celia's untimely comment. Donny and I had been an item for well over a year - my first steady man since graduation. Then, one night about three weeks ago, he left without a word of explanation. Angie and Tara saw him out hanging on Lana a few nights later, a girl he swore he couldn't stand. So much for honesty in relationships, right?

"Look at this place!" whined Constance, our resident rich girl. "It looks like a warehouse!"

Laughing, Angie replied, "Gee, I hope it ain't a strip club then!" referencing the fact that most of the strip clubs around town were precisely that, warehouses.

We unfolded ourselves out of the car, straightened our clothes, and basically primped before heading inside. Looking around at the bland facade, my eye caught on the club's sign. Nightwalkers. "Hey Ang, that's quite an odd name for a club, isn't it?"

She glanced at the sign and nodded. "Yeah, but then a real oddball told me about this place. Remember Peyton? That cutie in my night class? Him."

"Oh no!" I laughed. "We're in trouble then!"

"Now Sierra, he's a nice guy,” she scolded. "Just a bit... eccentric... is all. Besides, he said he'd be here tonight, so be nice!"

"Yes Mom," I mocked as well all entered the club.

The illusion of a warehouse vanished as soon as you entered the building. Plush, antique-type sofa benches were scattered everywhere. Made of some sort of dark wood, they sported red velvet cushions and practically called out, "Come sit on me". The floor was concrete, stamped in an odd design that resembled flowing water and colored a pale reddish-pink. The bar was on the far wall, directly opposite the front entrance. It was made of the same dark wood as the sofas and polished to a high shine. A gorgeous, redheaded creature with brilliant green eyes stood behind it taking orders and mixing drinks.

Off to the far right was a high, old-fashioned stage that was currently void of entertainment. A rich, red velvet curtain hung directly behind it, presumably hiding the performers. The rest of the huge space was littered with people dancing, drinking, and trying to pick each other up amongst the many tables and sofas.

Spying the stage, Tara stage-whispered playfully, "Oh my gosh, it IS a strip club!"

"I resent that comment!" came a familiar voice from behind us.

"Sorry Peyton!" Angie called as her tall, blonde god walked up and hugged her. "We were just joking."

An odd twinkle lit up his eyes. "'S’okay. No offense taken, my dear." He focused his smile on her a moment longer before turning it on the rest of us. "So, are you going to introduce me to your friends or not?" he teased.

Flustered, Angie sputtered, "OH! Of course! You know Tara, right?" he nodded and she went on. "This is Celia," pointing to our short brunette friend, "Constance," pointing to *our* blonde goddess, "Paige," our redheaded goddess, "and Sierra." That's me, of course, the resident pagan and scapegoat. "Guys, this is Peyton." We smiled and passed hellos back and forth.

"Ladies, why don't you find your way over to the bar and order yourselves some refreshments? I regret that, with the holiday tonight, there won't be any performances, but we can find a way to entertain ourselves, I'm sure." He paused and looked back over his shoulder. "I have some friends with me. They're over that way," he pointed over his shoulder in the direction he'd looked before. "Be dears and get something for my Angie, would you? We'll meet you over at our table."

Tara took Angie's order and we wove our way to the bar. Waiting for my drink to arrive, I watched Angie and her new paramour. She hadn't mentioned anything about seeing him, but anything was possible. He was certainly enjoying her company however.

Constance and Paige were noticed by a couple of hunks almost immediately after reaching the bar. They made obvious faces and we laughed and waved them off. Grinning like schoolgirls, they focused their attention back on their new pals. We couldn't deny them; this is why we were here after all.

On the way back to Angie and co, Celia was headed off by a rather obnoxious and completely obvious young man. And Celia, being Celia, drank it up and excused herself.

Looking at each other, Tara grinned at me. "Looks like I just might be going home with *you* tonight."

"I love you and all, Tara, but you're just not my type." We giggled self-consciously and resumed our mission, drinks in hand.

"Where are the girls?" Angie queried as I set her drink before her.

"Out there," I said, motioning my chin out towards the dancing throng. "Mingling, I suppose."

"Ah," Angie replied knowingly. "I see. Anyway, Tara, Sierra, this is Andrei, Peyton's roommate."

"Hi," he replied, shaking both our hands. "Nice to meetcha."

"We're still missing a member of our party," Peyton interrupted. "Dakotah's not very fond of this kind of place so he tends to hide. But, he's here somewhere."

"Oh, okay," I replied, not knowing what else to say. I looked to Tara for help but she was oblivious. Her eyes were locked onto Andrei's. He was standing now, with one hand outstretched to her. Seeing a lost cause for what it was, I turned back to Angie and Peyton.

"Angie dear, I do think Andrei has the right idea. Would you like to dance?"

By the way Angie's face lit up, I didn't need to hear her answer. Her voice found me anyway. "Sierra hon, are you gonna be okay here by yourself? I mean..."

I cut her off. "Go, dance! It's okay. Besides, I'm still nurturing some unresolved anger. Go have fun." She didn't need any convincing. They were off before I'd finished my sentence.

Looking down at my Coke, I frowned. "Why'd I pick tonight to stay sober?" I mumbled, wallowing in my own self-pity. Poor me.

"Maybe because that alcohol crap will kill you. Or at least get you into serious trouble in a place like this."

Startled, I looked up.

"Sorry," apologized the voice. "I thought my friends had been sitting here."

"If you mean Peyton and Andrei, yeah, they were here."

"Where are they now?" I pointed without looking and he nodded. "As I thought. Mind if I join you?"

"S-sure," I stumbled. "Plenty of room."

He seated himself across from me and held out his hand. "I'm Dakotah. Sorry they all abandoned you. No social skills, that group."

"No, it's okay." I forced myself to look him in the eye and was startled and surprised by what I saw.

His eyes were a deep blue color, framed by long, thick lashes. The kind most women would kill for. He had long, dark hair that fell in loose waves down his back, almost to his waist. There must've been some kind of Indian blood somewhere in his family because he had that beautiful caramel-colored skin and fine features that the Indian people call their own. And his body, well, wow.

But there was a contradiction in his eyes that I couldn't figure out. As beautiful as they were, they seemed out of place in his young face. Almost like they'd seen more than his years hinted at. Liked they belonged in an old man's face and not in a fresh kid's. I told myself I was imagining things and tried to concentrate on what he was saying. He was so hot however, that I had a hard time looking at anything but his well-muscled arms or hearing anything but my heart thudding in my chest.

"This isn't my thing. Especially not on a night like this. I'd rather be out under the moonlight." he was saying.

"Yeah, I agree," I think I said.

Angie and Peyton suddenly appeared next to us. "Glad to see you decided to show your face, pal." Peyton shot out. "Had a young lady all alone here at our table."

I swear Dakotah rolled his eyes. "Well, if you weren't so eager to get your fang on, she wouldn't have been here alone, would she?"

"Fang on?" Angie asked, confused. "Oh, I get it! Like 'get your groove on' but you used fang since were in this gothy-vampish club!" She tittered a little laugh. "That's funny!" Dakotah just stared at Peyton.

"We're going to go cuddle on a couch. You two should join us." :She looks like she's pretty tasty. I wouldn't let her get away if I were you.:

:Go away, Peyton. Do what you want. Just be discreet! There are way too many mortals in here tonight. If you must feed, then do so out of sight:

Obviously, I was unaware of this conversation, but I knew something was going on. The tension at the table just went up about fifty notches.

"Whatever you say, boss." Peyton spat.

"I'm not your boss. I'm just tired of your games." Dakotah watched Peyton lead Angie over to an unoccupied couch in the corner. He turned his attention back to me as they began to make out. "Please, excuse me. I need to get out of here. My apologies - I don't mean to leave you on your own."

"No worries. Not like it's the first time it's happened tonight." I looked out towards where my friends had disappeared. "Unlike my friends, I'm not interested in one-night stands and carousing all night." I watched nameless faces pass by me on their way to and from the bar. "Maybe I should leave too."

"If I miss my guess, you all came here with Peyton's friend, right?"

How the hell did he know that? "Yeah, we came with Angie. So?"

"So, you don't have any way home."

"I can catch a cab."

"Not in this area. You'd be history."

"I've lived here a long time. Don't worry about it."

"I'll take you home."

"Um, no. And you're worried about thugs on the streets? Sorry, you're a Greek God and all, but I'm not that stupid."

"Romanian."

"Huh?"

"Romanian God. But that's beside the point." He caught my gaze with those incredible blue eyes and I felt my body yield to his command. There'd be no arguments from me anytime soon. "It's okay. I don't bite." *Weeelll, not hard anyway.* "I'll take you home and you'll be safe."

"Okay." Don't ask me how or why, but suddenly I trusted him. He took me by the hand and led me to the front door. I followed like a lovesick puppy.

"My truck is over here." He directed me to the left and escorted me to a newish Dodge Ram. While unlocking my door, he glanced back at the club, like he was sending psychic hate mail or something. "Get in." I obeyed.

I don't remember telling him which way to go but I must have since he found my place without a hitch. He had my keys in his hand and let me into my own apartment. I felt obligated to have him in for a drink. I *do* remember screaming at myself NOT to do this, but I don't remember listening very well.

In the end, my stupidity didn't cost me my life. But it could have. I know that now.

We talked for a good part of the night. I know that I wish we'd been otherwise occupied. After some time, I think he felt the same way. I don't know when he left me. All I know is I woke up on the wrong side of my bed, clothed in my favorite jammas, with a crick in my neck.

Sitting up and rubbing my neck, I squinted at the bright sunlight coming through my window. Morning! Oh no! Where'd the time go? I moved to get out of bed and fell to the floor. After letting the carpet comfort my pounding head for a moment, I moved more slowly and pulled myself back into bed. That's when I noticed the rose and paper on my nightstand.

Sierra:

Everything is as it should be. You drifted off to sleep shortly after midnight. I brought you to your room and laid you on your bed. I locked up and left. I next went to insure your friends all made it home safe. They are all fine.

Be warned: Nightwalkers is NOT a place for girls like you and your friends. Peyton made a serious error in inviting you along. For your own safety and sanity, do NOT return. Trust me when I say it could cost you more than your innocence.

Will I see you again? Time will tell.

Until that day, be well,

Dakotah

Sighing, berating myself for not being able to remember anything, I got a glass out of the kitchen, filled it with water, and put the rose in it. I carried it back to my room and left it on my nightstand. Wondering if I'd ever see my Greek God again, I fell asleep.

About Sierra

2008-09-16T13:38:00.001-07:00

This is the second in the Dakotah series, told from Sierra's point of view. I think I like this lighter, shorter story better. However, I went back and tweaked things after re-writing the original Dakotah story, so if there's something that doesn't quite jive, shoot me a note and let me know so I can fix it. I thought I caught all those, but you know how sneaky those inconsistencies can be...

Now, onward and upward... or was it 'to infinity and beyond!'?

~Mika and Buzz

Dakotah: Epilogue

2008-09-15T13:54:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Yeah, yeah, yeah... I can hear you cheering... stop it. LOL 'Scuse the horrid poetry. LOL

Journal Entry ~ August 3

All is well once again in my home. My love has been returned to me, body, mind and soul. And I believe I have learned my lesson. I must have since here I sit, hot mug of tea in my hand, despite the horrid heat of August in Nevada. It may take a century or two, but I do eventually learn.

My mother would have agreed, whole heartedly on that account.

She is still wary of me, even on my best days. She’s seen the caged animal get loose and now fears retribution for having stashed him back inside his fenced preserve. I think she fears I’m going to lose control of the demon inside me again and that I’m going to lay the blame on her for forcing me to keep him locked away. I doubt she’ll ever know, or truly understand, that she is the reason I lock him away, have banished him from my existence.

You can’t love when you are consumed by desire, greed, and need. You can only destroy. Melinda is a prime example of that very principle. May the gods above save me from that fate. I pray that Sierra and her dear sister, Cheyenne, drag me into the sunlight before I become the bitter, angry vampire that Melinda has warped into.

I have lived my life refusing to have regrets. While I wish I hadn’t ever harmed Sierra, I do not regret what has transpired between the two of us. I think it was necessary for her to understand the nature of the beast that resides within me. I only wish I hadn’t hurt nor scared her nearly as much as I had. That’s as close to a regret as I am allowing myself. She will be more careful from this day on. And maybe, just maybe, she knows me a tiny bit better than she had just a few days before.

Tyler is even more enamored of my russet-haired witch than ever before. He admires her beauty and is amazed by her strength, the emotional as well as the physical. Never before have either of us encountered a mortal being with such strength of heart and spirit. She is what keeps me sane, and what gives me reason to rise with the moon every evening. My dear Sierra, this poor creature would be beyond lost without you in my life.

And you wonder why I was so drawn to you from the very beginning. I only wish I could explain it to you. Maybe someday. But until then, I will have to satisfy myself with caring for you and seeing to your every need. Even if that entails humiliating myself by being your coffee boy. Your wish is my undying command.

In eternal night,

Guided by the brilliant

Light of my love,

No more searching; only finding

I sought you for centuries

You, my perfect mate

Only to find you now

Just when I thought I’d lost

All chance to ever have

My reward, my rescue

I hold on tightly

Afraid to let go and be lost

In the eternal darkness

That I know as my soul

Dakotah James, once upon a time known as Tawno Brishen Kobori, forever just to be me

Dakotah: Chapter 8

2008-09-15T13:51:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: Lots of lovey-dovey make-up sex forthcoming... And another inside joke between Zan & I. LOL

"And for you, sir?" The girl in the green apron and cheesy grin asked.

Dakotah sighed. This barista was much too cheerful for so late at night. "One large iced decaf double nonfat mocha. Lotsa whipped cream. Please."

“Absolutely!” the cheery girl replied, repeating his order. “And the name for the order?”

“Dakotah,” he exhaled loudly. “With an ‘h’.” If he was going to be embarrassed like this, the least they could do was spell his name right. Looking out the storefront window, he could see Sierra and Tyler discussing something in the Mustang. “Probably me,” he muttered, walking closer to the windows and freedom from the mortification of being at Sierra’s whims.

“I have one large iced decaf double nonfat mocha with extra whipped cream for Dakotah at the bar.”

He stepped up to the bar, took a straw and smiled at the girl, making every attempt not to show her his fangs. It wasn’t her fault he was here right now. “Thanks.”

Stepping outside, he glanced at the cup, curious if they’d gotten his name right; it was rare anyone did, even after being told. He grinned a toothy smile when he noticed that she’d not only spelled it right, but had added fangs to the smiley face adorning the cup. “Of all the things to put on my cup.” He shook his head, not wanting to really know.

***

"So, are you satisfied?" he asked later. They were curled up in bed, snuggled close.

"Almost. " She reached her face up to his and kissed him. Forgiving him.

As he slid his tongue into her mouth, he could taste the chocolate from her coffee. A hint of the creamy whipped topping that had capped it off. "Mmm, you taste good, even better than usual. I could get used to this, I think." He delved his tongue between her lips once more, tasting her a second time.

"Good thing I get decaf," she giggled. "Last thing we need is you getting a caffeine high off my blood." His mouth smothered her next set of giggles. She broke free long enough to get one more dig in on him. “I’d never forgive myself if I was responsible for setting a wired vampire loose in the city.”

He growled playfully at her, attacking her mouth in a desperate attempt to shut her up, just for a little while. She could tease him later. Much later.

Dakotah's hands moved along her curves, settling comfortably on her hips. "No, you don't want me getting a caffeine rush.” He nipped at her bottom lip, teasing, taunting. “Especially since I already plan to have you all night as it is. And if I get too much caffeine, well, then you’ll be the sorry one." Sierra smiled; she couldn’t think of a single reason to complain. She also highly doubted she’d be sorry for anything that came out of tonight.

He pulled at her bottom lip with his teeth, letting his blood teeth gently graze their length. She shivered beneath him. Tonight it would be good. His tongue moved in and out of her mouth, dancing and playing tag with hers. Engaged in a long, lingering kiss, his hands moved up her stomach and along her breasts. She inhaled deeply, filling her chest with air and pushing her breasts against his hands. "You tease," he breathed.

"That's me. Only I'm not teasing now." He could hear her heart skip a beat, fear and anticipation swirling inside her.

A throaty chuckle was his only answer.

One long kiss was all it took for him to get her shirt onto the foot of the bed. Trained, dark fingers toyed with her pink nipples, pulling and pinching as she squirmed. His hand gently caressed her flat stomach and moved downward to the patch of copper hair he loved to tease her about. Obediently, she opened her legs to his touch.

“A redhead to your roots,” he teased. She blushed and guided his fingers into place. A place he knew very well by now. Sierra’s back arched as the first of his fingers slid inside her. He buried his face in her neck, lightly nipping her salty skin. She moved against him, driving him into a frenzy of desire and bloodlust.

Dakotah licked the taut skin of her neck and panted, “You are so ready for me and I’ve barely even touched you.” He gave her another little nip with his fangs. “Do you have any idea what that does to me?”

She grinned evilly. Taking his erection into her hand, she muttered, “I can see what it does to you.” She stroked the length of him three or four times, feeling him harden even more, delighting in the feel of him in her fingers.

When the growl escaped him, her smile broadened even further. Sierra ran her free hand through his long, dark hair. Getting a firm grip on the back of his head, she forced him into a kiss. She spread her legs and, with the other hand, guided him into place. He fit easily inside her, her anticipation making it ever so easy for him.

Dakotah gave a muted cry of pleasure. His gums ached and his pulse raced. Slowly, he moved against her soft, white skin. She lifted her hips to meet him, accepting him deeper with every thrust. Sierra let her head rest against the pillow, biting her lip and closing her eyes. They had a perfect rhythm going, one they both wanted to last forever. Her little grunts and squeaks became louder and more frequent as she got closer to her climax. Her body began to move of its own accord, not allowing him to pull out of her for more than a second at a time.

It was time. He knew it. He could feel it in her body. He could smell her sweat and her blood. He wasn’t ever sure at a time like this which one was the sweeter smell. Dakotah inhaled the mingling scents of her body and his, savoring the way he felt inside her and loving the way her body heat was warming him.

He lowered his mouth to her neck. She inhaled sharply at the prick on her skin. In an effort to prolong the inevitable, he licked at the tiny droplets of her blood that were welling up to the surface. Teasing him the way he’d enjoyed teasing her. Sierra’s body began to tremble with her approaching climax. Giving in to lust, to the bloodlust, he drove his erection inside her, plunged his fangs into her vein.

Sierra gasped; the dual orgasm shook her physically, emotionally. She felt his release; he slowed and stopped moving against her. He lay to the side, lips still attached to her neck. Sighing, she held him to her, allowing him to finish in his own time. Closing her eyes, she floated near sleep thinking, I’m gonna have one hell of a hickey tomorrow…

Dakotah: Chapter 7

2008-09-15T13:49:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: The 'wrap-up'. *G* Short, and could have been included with Chapter 6 now that I think of it. *sigh* Whatever.

"So what did she hit?" Tyler asked, curiosity rising to the surface now that the threat had vanished. Dakotah had just finished explaining the night’s events to an astounded, but much relieved, Sierra.

"I'd blessed and consecrated his pendulum specifically to meet his needs. I put protection from evil spells and such on it. Never thought that he,” she motioned to the man beside her, “would need it, not knowing what he was. But, I guess it worked!" she laughed giddily at the thought of something going so right. “For once being overly cautious paid off for me.”

"Yeah, you're one mighty powerful little witch! I ain't gonna mess with you!" Tyler teased Sierra, thankful she was going to be okay. He’d become quite attached to her over the time she and Dakotah had been a couple. Losing her tonight had never been an option. For either of them.

Dakotah noticed her absently rubbing her wrists. "Are you okay? I wish we could've gotten to you sooner. I couldn't get through all those protections you'd put on yourself.” He held her tightly and kissed the top of her head. Now is no time for scolding, demon.

"Sierra, if you'd put up shields to protect you from him, why didn't they protect you from her?" In all the years he’d been alive, Tyler had never tangled with a witch, not a real one anyway. Having been a scholar in a previous live, his quest for answers never ceased.

"I... I don't know. I think she may have broken them somehow. I felt this strange tingling when I was going to change my clothes. I wonder if that's when it happened?" She tried to shrug it off, but the creepy memory remained.

"It probably was. She was born during the height of magic users, back before Christianity was the norm. Melinda was at one time a very powerful witch, and at a time when the rules against harming others were much less strictly enforced.” He sighed, not wanting to think on it, unable to do anything but. “Now, she's just a mean, bitter old vampire." Dakotah pulled the fiery redhead even closer. "But don't let that lull you into security. I have no doubt she could pull out some tricks that'd make us all turn and run." And I think we may discover just how powerful she’s become.

"I won't ever let my guard down. Not now or ever. I'm just sorry I couldn't trust you. You hadn't hurt me, after all." She pressed her back against his chest, searching for the elusive feeling of safety.

"That's not the point. I could have hurt you very easily. I'm just glad it didn't come to that. You were wise to just give in, no matter how wrong." He blushed at the look Tyler was giving him. "Baby, I'm so sorry this happened. If there's anything I can do... let me know, okay?" His eyes met hers, touching his mind to hers. You know I will do anything you ask, from now on. I owe you that much.

"Well, if you're serious, you know what always makes me feel better..." she slyly suggested.

"No. Absolutely not." he said adamantly. "No." It was so un-vampire like and embarrassing. He couldn’t believe she would even ask. “Please no.”

“But, you said, you promised!” She pouted playfully, knowing she already had him. "Fine. If you don't love me enough..."

Dakotah: Chapter 6

2008-09-15T13:48:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: Figured I'd post what was left. Yippee, right? And forgive me if my chapters end abruptly. Never divided it up before for some dumb reason and am too short of time to REALLY read it over. So, hoping it makes sense. LOL Some violence and assuredly some bad words...

"They'll be here soon," Melinda announced confidently, pacing the bare concrete floor. "He's letting his thoughts slip in his excitement. I can hear him loud and clear." A triumphant smirk crossed her face.

"That's good. I can't wait to get my hands on him!" Brett chuckled, ideas flitting through his mind. "My payback for stealing what was going to be a very lovely slave for me." His gaze flicked to Sierra.

Melinda looked down at him. "You will do no such thing. He is MY chylde, MY responsibility. If anyone is to dispatch him, it will be ME. Do you understand?"

He nodded his assent, too terrified of her to speak. Too disappointed to think of a good enough response.

"Good. Besides, once I have him back under my control, I plan on taking him home with me." Brett did not like the smile on her face.

***

"Oh dear Goddess," Sierra breathed, "I'm so stupid. I was just scared. Please help him find me. If you help me out this time, I swear I won't buy any more herb plants. I will never murder another innocent plant!" Tears streaked her cheeks. "Please help him find me!"

I already have, my child, daughter of my soul. Be strong and blessed be…

Sierra started and looked around until the feeling of peace and security overcame her and she knew her goddess was with her. And that eventually, she would be safe again.

***

"Doesn't it figure? All these warehouses! She could be anywhere." Tyler groaned, looking from side to side at the numerous buildings surrounding them.

"She's not. She's here. This one." He pointed to a nearby grey colored building. "I can hear her breathing."

"In we go then!" he announced more eagerly than he felt.

The two vampires walked the perimeter of the building, scouting and observing their environment while trying to find an entrance. They came across a side door on the west side and broke the lock.

“Easy enough,” Tyler muttered, watching Dakotah snap it in his fist.

Inside, it was dark. The warehouse had been designed so that inside there was two smaller warehouses and one large office area. Their door had led them into one of the smaller warehouses.

"Which way?” Tyler looked around them, the darkness not an issue for the vampire. “She's obviously not in here."

Dakotah thought for a second before the question was answered for him. "She's at the north end, in the back of the office," announced a feminine voice. "But you're going home with me."

"Over my undead body," Dakotah fumed. "I will never follow you and your twisted self anywhere ever again.” Just let me get Sierra and get the hell out of here, he begged.

"And you, Tyler, Mr. Big Shot Vampire, you're mine,” Brett growled from behind his newest master.

"Brett!" Ty exclaimed in disbelief. "What the hell? Why are you here? And why am I really all that surprised?”

"You wouldn't understand, I'm sure. You'd never believe me if I told you how your friend deceived Sierra by telling her vicious lies about me. How he stole her from me." He shook his head sadly, consumed with his self-delusions. “She’s so sweet and delectable, I just wanted a taste or two but not now.”

"I warned her about you, you pig! You take girls out and a week later they're on a milk carton,” Dakotah defended himself and his past actions easily. No matter what her eventual answer to his courting was to be, he’d been determined to make sure she didn’t end up with him. And dead for her troubles.

"I wasn't talking to YOU!" he shouted, turning to glare at Dakotah, anger flaring in his green eyes.

Tyler took the opportunity. Flinging himself at Brett, he knocked him to the ground. Brett fought and struggled, landing one good punch in on Ty's jaw. Being the stronger of the two, Tyler wrestled him to the ground and slashed him across the throat with his nails.

Brett's hands flew up to his rapidly escaping blood; his scream gurgled in his ripped throat. Tyler quickly pulled his silver executioner's knife out of the holster at his hip and finished the job. Quickly. Bone snapped as he sawed through the punk's neck. I’m enjoying this too much, I think.

Panting, Tyler looked up at the sound of a single clap.

"How daring! My hero!" Melinda teased. "Now I don't have to get rid of him myself." Her glare turned back onto Dakotah. "You on the other hand..."

Like lightning, she flew at him, claws and fangs bared, prepared to cull her cub. Her flight stopped abruptly, her body hitting an unseen force surrounding her target. Stunned, she fell limply to the ground. Briefly dazed, she weakly muttered, "What the..."

Dakotah didn't give her a chance to finish the thought. He was on her immediately, pushing her face down on the cool cement. She thrashed and kicked, throwing him off to the side. Melinda rolled onto her back and oriented herself. In a breath, he was back on top of her, shoving her back to the ground. She saw the glint in his eyes and panicked. He meant business this time. There'd be no persuading him tonight. He’d changed, just like they’d warned her.

And typically, she refused to listen.

He saw nothing but her beautiful pale breast. The white skin he'd fallen in love with. The soft body he'd held so many nights... You can't think about that, he harshly reminded himself. Raising the blade he always carried with him, out of habit, and for moments like these, he brought it down, strong and sure; it met the concrete as she dissipated beneath him. Silver rang on concrete; the sound echoed loudly in his ears.

Another time, my love, she laughed. However, you’d better keep an eye on that little witch of yours, just in case.

"This isn't over, is it?" Tyler sighed.

"Not by a long shot, I'm afraid. Let's go find Sierra." Dakotah stood, brushing the dust from his denim clad jeans, his wife his only objective now.

Dakotah: Chapter 5

2008-09-15T13:43:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: The 'joke' between Sierra and Dakotah actually came from a card my man sent me when I was living in Phoenix, away from him. Still have it too. And yeah, I do think of the oddest things at the oddest times. Warnings in this chapter: nothing really bad except my idea of an 'action scene' here and in the next chapter or so. LOL

Sierra walked down the hallway to their bedroom, unbuttoning her blouse. Feeling an unusual sensation, she stopped, cautious, curious. Her body was tingling in a strange way, not unpleasant but far from comfortable. Reminded her of the after effects of spell casting, especially those days when she’d forget to reground the energy after finishing her ritual. A shiver crawled up her spine. "Boy, that was weird," she mumbled, continuing on. “Kotie must be thinking of me after all,” she muttered, remembering their old joke.

Ever get the chills when you’re all alone, Sie?

No, Kotie, why?

You should with all the time you spend naked in my thoughts.

“Why do I always think of the oddest things at the oddest times?” Sierra asked herself, not expecting an answer. She reached the bedroom door, shirt hanging loosely around her body. Just a moment too late, she heard the person creeping behind her. "Wha..." was all she managed before a damp hand muffled her scream. Fingers closed over her mouth, clamping down hard.

Shh, my sweet. I won't hurt you, at least not yet. The stranger’s grip tightened on her, squeezing her heart with fear. You remember me, don't you? We were hitting it off so well until… well, until you met him. And he found a way to change your mind about me, didn’t he? His mistake.

Eyes widening in fear, Sierra recognized the voice. It was Brett, another vampire, one she'd been interested in before she'd met Dakotah. He’d frequented the same places she and her friends had and she saw him often. Sierra had been thinking of accepting his offer of a date until later when Dakotah had warned her off him, told her of his temper and unpredictability... I guess he was right.

He jerked her around and dragged her back out into the living room. Another form entered from the kitchen. Another vampire, she knew immediately. She could feel the malevolent power and energy rolling off of her being. Not a good sign at all.

Brett tossed her onto the couch and ordered her to sit.

"So you're the pretty little witch I've heard so much about? Humph. Don't know why he made such a fuss." The barb hurt, but Sierra did her best to ignore it. "Doesn't matter. You're just going to bring him to me anyway. Then I'll give you to Brett for 'safe keeping'." She laughed. "Bind and gag her. We're leaving." Brett obeyed.

***

"Ah, finally!" came the relieved sigh. "She's home."

"Great. How'd you finally connect with her?"

Dakotah looked worried. "I don't know. Something must've knocked her shield down. We'd better hurry."

Tyler turned the key in the ignition of Dakotah's Mustang and raced out of the parking lot.

***

"She's not here, Tyler. I've looked everywhere. Something's really not right."

My, aren't we a bright boy!

Dakotah looked around quickly, trying to find the source of the mental voice. His senses on full alert, he attempted to hone in on its location.

I'm not around you, honey-boy. Your little woman and I are having a ... chat. Why don't you come join us? There’s always room for one more in my brood. But, well, you already know that, don’t you?

Where are you? He pleaded. You’d better not hurt her! I promise you’ll regret even thinking about it.

Or what? She cackled. Come and get her. If you can

The voice was gone.

"Shit! Where is she, D? Forget that, WHO is she?"

"As to the where, I have no idea, I couldn’t pinpoint her location. She’s learned a thing or two in these last few decades, I think. As to who... well, she's Melinda."

"Melinda? Who the hell is Melinda?”

"Just Melinda," he said, looking past his friend, procrastinating on telling him the truth for as long as possible. "Go out to the car and get my map. I'm going into Sierra's altar room. I need to find something." Let’s just hope she didn’t ward her sacred space as well as her body, he silently prayed.

Tyler nodded and headed out to the car. He returned a few minutes later and found Dakotah sitting cross-legged on the floor with an intricately carved wooden box in his lap. In one hand he held a small silver knife and in the other a whitish stone on a black leather cord surrounded by smaller, darker stones. "Whatcha got?"

"This," he said holding up the small weapon, "is her ritual knife. She says she uses it mostly for symbolism and to chop herbs, but she also says she keeps it around to keep me in line. It's silver." He held it securely between his thumb and first finger, displaying the triple goddess symbol carved into the wooden handle as he moved it side to side. The light glinted off the untarnished blade and finely honed edge.

"This," he said, allowing the stone to dangle off its chain, "is a pendulum. She's been trying to teach me how to use it, but I've never had much use for it. Old dogs, new tricks and all that.” Dakotah smiled slightly at the lame joke. “Tonight we're going to see if I actually paid attention to her or if I'd just thought I had." He paused as he held the stone in his hand. "Sierra found it in some store and swore that, once she'd held it, that it had been made especially for me. It's a moonstone," he pointed to the large whitish stone hanging in the center of the cord. "These," he motioned to the tiny round stone beads on either side of the moonstone, "are bloodstone. Fitting, isn't it?"

***

They spread the map out on the kitchen table, smoothing it flat. "So how does this thing work?" Tyler asked.

"Like this," he responded. Dakotah leaned over the center of the map and took a deep breath. Taking the pendulum out of his shirt pocket, he held it steadily over the map. Concentrating on the lessons Sierra had given him, he silently grounded himself, making an effort to connect with the Earth. It was a half-hearted attempt; he didn’t have the time to do it properly. He had questions and needed answers. Fast.

"What is the action for yes?" The stone moved back and forth.

"What is the action for no?" The stone slowly swung in a circle. “Okay, on to the important issues.” Tyler was confused, but held his tongue, having faith that one of them knew what was going on.

"Is she in the city?" The stone moved back and forth. Yes.

“Good news, that,” Ty interjected. Dakotah grimaced. It was a large city they lived in.

"Is she in the west?" The stone slowly circled. No.

"Is she in the north?" The stone swung back and forth. Yes.

"Bingo!" Tyler shouted, getting excited despite himself.

"Geez! Be quiet!" Dakotah moved the pendulum over the eastern portion of the map. "Where is she? Please!" Never in my life did I think I’d be begging a map and a stone for help.

The pendulum hung motionless for a long time, much, much too long for either vampire’s comfort.

"Come on Dakotah, this is stupid. We know the area, I have some ideas where she could be, let's just go and..." Tyler's voice trailed off as the pendulum started to move again, side to side, a direction they hadn't seen before. "What's it doing?"

"I don't know, but I'm going to find out." He watched for a moment, studying the pendulum, not breathing. It was swaying more to the right than the left so he gently eased it to the right. It still reached to the right. He moved it a bit more. “My god, I think it’s trying to tell where she is,” he murmured in disbelief. It began to swing to the left suddenly, but only slightly. Dakotah watched for a moment and moved it a tiny bit to the left. The pendulum began to swing in a circle. "Quick, I think it’s got something! In the kitchen by the phone, grab the pen!"

Tyler found it quickly and returned at a run. "What do you want me to do?"

"Follow the motion of the pendulum and make an outline." Tyler did as Kotie instructed, taking care not to touch the stone and knock it off course. "That's where she is," he said, pointing to the circle, smiling for real finally. He kissed the moonstone and put it around his neck. "I guess she was right, it was made for me."

"I guess this also means you've been listening to her too," his friend teased, ducking out of Dakotah’s reach, running for the front door.

Dakotah: Chapter 4

2008-09-15T13:36:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Aren't you glad I didn't go with the interludes? LOL Nothing bad in this chapter 'cept some language. :)

She brushed her blonde hair back from her face, peering intently at the young vampire before her.

"So, have you been preparing things as I have asked you to?"

He nodded eagerly. "Yes ma'am, I have. Your residence and finances are all taken care of, just as you ordered."

"And what about Dakotah? Will he be here tonight? As promised?"

The youngster paused, frightened of the elder vampire. "I... well, I doubt it."

"What do you mean?" she said, growing angry.

"You see, he's living with this witch..." The younger vampire paled, cautious of the angry woman’s temper.

"He's what? You didn't tell me anything about another one of our kind!" she interrupted.

"Oh, that she's not. She's a mortal witch. She's been trying to cure him. Or come close. Seems to be working. He hasn't been around here much. Except for last night." He looked quickly at her, knowing immediately he'd said the wrong thing.

"He was here last night? And you didn't inform me?" She moved closer, closing the space between them.

"But you're his creator, his sire. Don't you know these things?"

"I used to know these things! If I still did then I certainly wouldn't need you would I?" She grabbed him by the neck and brought his face to hers. "Now listen to me. Something has been blocking out his thoughts from me for quite some time now. That's why I'm here, to find out why and how he is doing this. Now tell me why he was here last night."

"He came to hunt. And because he felt that something was out of place. Not right, you know? He never did figure it out that I know of."

Hmm, so he's feeling my presence, she thought. That's good. That's VERY good.

"Come along, Brett. Show me where this little waif is shacking up with my chylde." She loosened her grip on his throat and let him fall weakly to his knees.

***

"Oh Cheyenne!" Sierra wailed. "I can't take this. I'm going back and try to work this out." She threw her hands up in surrender, heading for the front door.

"Are you sure?" her sister asked in concern. "He could easily kill you in a rage like that. It scares me." She crossed her arms across her chest, hugging herself.

"I know, Chey. It scares me too. But, in over a year, this is only the second time he's flipped out on me like that. There's something up and I don't like it."

Her sister sighed. "I guess your efforts have been for nothing then." She handed her sister her purse reluctantly, not wanting to let her leave the safety of her home.

"The tea! That's what was wrong!” She took her purse distractedly, thinking. “He said he needed to get out and hunt last night so he didn't have his tea. He hasn't even so much as playfully growled at me since he's been drinking it. Now I know I've really got to go." She pecked Cheyenne on the cheek quickly.

Cheyenne got up from her chair and hugged her younger sister. "If you are sure, then go. You're always welcome here."

"Thanks sis!" she said, hugging her back.

"Just be careful. Hot or not, he is a killer and a demon. Remember that."

"I will."

***

"I can still feel it, Ty. My skin is absolutely crawling now. It's driving me nuts." He absently rubbed his arms, trying to rid himself of the gooseflesh. "I haven't felt this way in years." Suddenly, his face blanched. "Oh no. Please let me be wrong. Please let me be wrong." Dakotah clenched his teeth, fear and anger bubbling up unexpectedly. Please no, he begged.

"Wrong? About what?"

"Let's just say that, if I'm not wrong, then it's going to take all of Sierra's gods to get me out of trouble." He blanched even further. "Oh god, Sierra!" He quickly got up, almost knocking the table over. "I've got to find her."

"Okay, let's go." Tyler followed his dark-haired companion out of the bar, trusting he knew what he was doing.

***

Shaking with fear and anticipation, Sierra got out of her Dodge and began the long walk up the driveway to the front door. She hadn't used the front door since the first day she'd come to live with him. Now, she was back to being a stranger in her own home, in a sense. She felt like she didn't know him as well as she thought she had.

“Focus,” she mentally scolded herself. “Remember why you came back!”

She pulled herself together and approached the walkway. A strange feeling of foreboding overcame her as she reached for the doorknob. She paused, pulling her hand back partway. "Stop being silly, girl," she told herself. "It's just Dakotah's anger and frustration you're feeling. Now go in there and fix this!"

Sierra twisted the knob angrily and pushed the door open, tensing for an attack. When none came, she relaxed slightly and stepped inside carefully. The house was dark but that didn't alarm her. Dakotah often sat in the dark, reading or listening to music, not realizing her human eyes weren't as sharp as his. She was constantly turning lights on around him, bringing him into the twenty-first century. And he was constantly teasing her about needing glasses or having night blindness. She flipped on the porch light and then the foyer light. Now able to see, she made her way across the living room to the main lights for the house. Turning them on, she looked around. Empty. He wasn't here.

"Guess I could at least go change and figure out where he might be," she said to the empty air and headed for her room. “Kill some time anyway.”

***

"Okay, let me concentrate..." Dakotah begged out in his car. He closed his eyes and focused his thoughts on his love and tried to locate her. This ancient mind trick worked so much better when her blood was fresh in his veins, but it hadn't been long since he'd tasted her. It helped that their bond was a strong one; they were normally always connected with a ‘thought and a prayer’ as Sierra called it. "Dammit!" It was those damn protective shields keeping him out; her stubborn streak keeping him from locating her.

"What is it? Is she okay?" Tyler asked, concerned and frightened for his friend’s mortal wife.

"I don't know... I'm having a hard time finding her. She put up a protective shield to keep me away from her, afraid I'd REALLY hurt her and she musta been sly enough to put up mental wards to keep me out of her head too.” He sighed loudly. “She's too smart for her own good sometimes." Screaming mentally, he demanded, Damnit child, let me in!

Dakotah: Chapter 3 (For Real This Time)

2008-09-12T07:42:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: Thank you, Robin, for pointing out that I'm a dork that can't count to three... Glad you're enjoying btw.

As far as warnings, well, Sierra's a practicing witch, so if that sort of thing bothers you, she performs a ritual in this scene. Other than that, this chapter is pretty mild compared to the last one... LOL

The sound of rustling forest green silk followed her around the room as she prepared her sacred space. Dakotah had allotted her an empty room to set up her altar and so she could perform her rituals in peace and safety. She’d decorated it in earth tones so, no matter what the sabbat, her altar decorations wouldn’t clash with her décor. Ostara, Lammas, or Samhain, it all worked together. And she preferred it that way: simple and functional.

For the first time since she'd moved in a year ago, she was thankful for his generosity. At first, she’d refused, told him it was unnecessary, all she needed was a quiet corner somewhere, but now, now she understood. Sierra also knew that he understood as well; he’d suspected she’d need a safe zone, somewhere she could truly be out of harm's way. She could work her magic and be confident in it, and she needed all the confidence, concentration and strength she had for this next act. Setting the last candle in place, she surveyed her setup and nodded in approval.

Taking a deep breath, she stepped within the circle of candles and steeled her nerves. You have to do this, Sierra, she insisted. He's overstepped his boundaries again. You don't want to have to bind him, do you? Her inner mother continued to coerce her, working in full guilt mode. "No," she mumbled, "I don't want to do that. Not yet." Despite his mistakes of the night before, she knew that somewhere in the demon there was a man who loved her. Somewhere. “Not ever, if I can help it.”

Closing her eyes and breathing deeply, Sierra grounded herself, making peace with the earth, borrowing its power. Focusing her thoughts, she drew the Earth’s energy into her, felt it course through her veins, reaching out to her extremities. Enjoying the ebb and flow of the energy for a moment, she held her breath and slowly released it. Opening her eyes, she prepared to cast her circle, readying herself for the next step.

Feeling the Earth’s life force flowing through her, she approached her altar. Taking a small bowl of sea salt, she walked the perimeter of her circle, sprinkling the salt, blessing it with the power of the Earth, effortlessly repeating a chant she'd used for years. Next, she took up a burning stick of her favorite incense and walked the circle again, repeating her chant and blessing the circle with the element of Air. She continued with a red candle for the element of fire and finished with a small bowl of water. Placing the water back on her altar, she picked up her wand of sterling silver and moonstone and coaxed the energy within her to move through her body, down her arm, and into the wand. Concentrating the energy into a sort of ray, she sealed her circle.

Sierra visibly relaxed knowing that no one, not even the Vampire, could cross the circle she'd created. She could now take her time and do what she needed to do. She sat cross-legged on the floor at the center of her circle. Again, she grounded and centered her thoughts, emotions, and energies. When she felt calm enough to continue, she began to build a shield around her. She was determined to keep him from hurting her again.

Once her psychical and psychic shields were in place, she said a quick prayer to Brighid, her patron goddess. She was going to need every aspect of her patron goddess to help her save whatever it was she had left. Goddess of the hearth, creativity, inspiration, love and protection, every aspect her Goddess represented was an area she needed blessings in. Sierra was going to need to be creatively inspired soon, or her hearth, love and safety were going to be gone.

***

Stirring restlessly in his subterranean bed, Dakotah could physically feel the sun reach the horizon. His restlessness eased as it began to slip below the surrounding mountains. He sat up on the edge of the bed ready to face the evening before him. Stretching, he was grateful he slept in a death-like slumber for the bed he'd put down in the cellar was very uncomfortable. However, it served its function and that was what mattered at the moment.

He dressed quickly and went in search of his love, intent on apologizing and making things up to her. His actions had become clear to him as he came to wakefulness this evening. He was appalled and ashamed and was prepared to beg her forgiveness. He only hoped that she’d be generous enough to give him another chance.

Dakotah was more than aware he was running low on chances these days.

***

She wasn't in the living room or the kitchen. He paused to think where she might be. Her truck was still in the driveway so she couldn't have gone far. The scent of burning candles tickled his nose and brought him his answer. She was in a ritual of some sort. Worried that he'd missed one of her holidays, he quickly checked the calendar. Nope, he still had one more day. What was she doing then? He decided that it was her business and not his; he’d busy himself with some household chores until she was done. It invited some dangerous wrath to disturb her.

He was in the middle of mopping the kitchen floor when she appeared. Still dressed in her green silk ritual robe, she was the picture of a Celtic goddess come to earth. Her hair fell in loose waves over her shoulders and down her back, catching the light and playing games with it. Constantly in awe of her simple beauty, he stood there just smiling and admiring her. He started when she cleared her throat, looking at him.

"Evening, Sierra. Have a good day?" He moved near her. She ignored him. "Look, I'm sorry. Let's discuss this." He reached his arms out to her. "I know I got out of control..." his voice trailed off as he felt the resistance, a force pushing him away from her. Gentle but insisting. "What did you do?" he whispered, afraid.

"I put up a ward and a shield. I want to keep you away from me. I know what you did wasn't planned or intentional, but that doesn't mean that I have to put up with it." She took a steadying breath and looked into his eyes. "I don't deserve it and I refuse to take any more chances with my safety.”

"You're right, you don't deserve to be treated so badly or thoughtlessly.” He held his arms out, palms up, hoping she’d come nearer. “Let me hold you and make amends. I've said I was sorry, what more do you want from me?"

"Sorry is sorry.” She held her hands up, waving him away. “That’s exactly what you said last time you hurt me. Back when you promised it wouldn't happen again. You lied. You were wrong. It’s obvious you can’t control yourself, even when you try. You can't blame me for wanting to protect myself."

"No, I can't, but this is ridiculous.” He lowered his hands to his sides, gripping fistfuls of denim between his fingers. “I can't get within three feet of you without feeling uncomfortable. Don't you think that's a bit much?"

"Sorry. I sure don't. My safety is first and foremost."

"Then leave. If I can't be near you then I don't want you here. I may have made the mistake, but this is still my home. Good-bye." He turned his back and walked out of the kitchen; he didn’t, he couldn’t let her see the fear in his eyes. The knowledge that she was right and that he was going to pay.

Sierra stood still, shocked. Had he really just thrown her out? This wasn’t what she’d wanted nor expected. All she’d planned was to keep him away until he was back to himself, back to taking his tea every night. Four, five days at the most, and then she’d release the wards. She’d planned on being careful, keeping them both safe, but not alienating him completely. Sighing, she resigned herself to getting dressed. She'd go stay with her sister for the night and come back tomorrow and talk to him. Maybe.

***

He kept his face hidden until he heard the front door slam and her truck leave the drive. Swallowing the urge to chase after her, he left the library and put his boots on. Her scent filled his senses. It took all he had to keep from breaking down. He had to see Tyler and find out what was going on with him.

Dakotah: Chapter 2

2008-09-11T08:13:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: Some bad language, sex, and an unspeakable topic (for me anyway, so what do I do? I write about it... *sigh*)...

The Animal was still strong within him when he returned home. He was almost completely in thrall to his blood lust, the beast in control of his thoughts and feelings. The stolen blood rushed wildly about his veins, warming him and enticing him. He could smell her the instant he entered the house. She had such a sweet and sultry scent about her. His little redheaded witch was sometimes much too irresistible for her own good. The vampire was so close to her that he could taste her sweetness on his lips, on his tongue, in his mouth.

It was late and he knew immediately where he'd find her; her schedule was like clockwork. Sniffing the air, he followed her freshly washed smell down the hallway to the bedroom they 'shared'. Her scent filled the air just as her calm heartbeat filled his ears.

Opening the door, he saw her. She lay curled up on her side of the bed sound asleep, dressed in an old T-shirt of his, a favorite of hers. Her knees were pulled up to her chest, revealing the innocent white cotton of her bikini briefs. One bare foot hung over the edge of the mattress, dangling in the warm night air.

As he surveyed her tanned skin, he felt his teeth grow once more. A different sort of lust began to consume him this time. He'd always been fascinated with her toes, so small and fat, so out of synch with the rest of her. And her legs were perfection; although she wasn't tall, her legs were long and muscular, well toned from years of yoga and running. Her round hips swelled and merged into a small waist, almost too small, even for one as petite as she. Firm, healthy breasts rose and fell with the rhythm of her breath, pushing his restraint to its limits. Blood pulsed slowly through the veins in her long, beautiful neck. Her lips were pushed out in a precious pout as she slept, eyelids closed over her deep blue eyes. Wild red hair covered the pillow beneath her head.

Desire consuming him completely, Dakotah hastily pulled his Polo over his head and tossed it onto the floor. In an incredible act of balance and coordination perfected over the years, he tugged his boots off his feet while standing. Without a second thought, he popped the button open on his jeans and pushed them down his legs and onto the floor. He didn't bother removing his socks before climbing into bed, fangs and erection both fighting for control of his brain.

He snuggled up to her back, one arm reaching around her waist, running lightly over her taut belly. Sierra smiled in her sleep and snuggled back against him comfortably. Unable to resist, he kissed her bare throat and she moaned lightly, dreaming of him. He kissed her a second and third time, more frantic each time. Biting his bottom lip, he slid his hand down into the front of her panties. His fingers slipped through the tangle of fiery hair and between her legs. Sierra squirmed and moaned, dreaming of him doing things he knew she loved. He buried his face in her neck and errant hair, inhaling her scent.

Moving of their own accord, Dakotah's fingers slid inside his lover's body; Sierra's eyes flew open, startled, confused. "Kotie, honey?" she asked shakily.

Shh, quiet, he spoke into her mind.

"Honey, I'm tired. I... I need to get some sleep... busy day tomorrow..."

Making room for her, he pulled her down onto her back and straddled her waist. "Quiet!" he demanded, tearing at her panties, ripping the thin cotton easily.

She started to object, struggling against his hold, until she looked into his eyes. His normally calm, but often troubled, blue eyes were gone, consumed by a red fire burning deep within his soul. Terrified, she shut her mouth and gave herself over to him. She knew better than to test his restraint at a time like this. With a man like this, there was a thin line between hungry for love and just plain hungry. And he’d crossed that line tonight with a giant leap and a bound.

He forced her legs open with one hand. Positioning himself above her, he roughly buried himself inside her. A frightened squeak escaped her before she could stop it. She heard him growl before shutting her up with a forceful kiss. His tongue plunged into her mouth over and over again, exploring her as he thrust himself deeper into her. Fear and worry overcame her; she fought the urge to struggle, knowing it'd only make things worse. You don’t anger an already mad animal. That would only cause him to turn violent. That was something she hoped to never see again. Something she swore she'd never put up with again.

Dakotah released his hold on her mouth. Panting, he licked the sweaty length of her neck. Shivers raced up her spine. When he took her blood, it was always in an intimate setting, almost always during their lovemaking. Before, she'd tried to let him partake of her when he felt the need, but, after losing control one night, he swore he'd never drink from her again. She'd slyly convinced him it was okay at times like this, knowing she got as much out of it as he did. But tonight.... would he go too far? Would he remember to stop?

Do I have a choice? She wondered, frightened and angry.

Her back arched as his fangs pierced her skin. She pressed her body against his, pulling him closer, urging him to drink more deeply, hating herself for rewarding him for treating her like meat. But she couldn't help it or stop it. Her body had a mind of it’s own; she was no longer in control. She knew what was coming and she wanted it. Badly. Waves of pleasure shook her body as he drank. His body slowed, almost sated, regaining a measure of control. Regaining a semblance of coherence.

The shared passion, the taste of her essence brought him slowly back to himself. He shifted his body in order to take care of her needs, bringing them both to a second and different sort of climax. His hands roamed over her, exploring and teasing, bringing them both back to normal slowly and gently. Loving her was a favorite pastime of his, he’d do anything to touch her body, nuzzle her neck and kiss her skin. Just to hold her close one more time.

Dakotah removed his teeth from her neck and his body from between her legs. Breathing heavily, he bent to kiss her and apologize for waking her when she slapped him. Hard. Stunned, he stared at her in disbelief.

"What was that for?" He thought he should probably already know, Sierra was anything but aggressive, but his brain was still covered by the red fog that had clouded his thoughts for the last hour or more.

"You know, you bastard,” she growled angrily. “You swore you'd not do that again!" She pushed him off of her and got out of bed. Tears streaked her face and her body shook, the terror finally leaving her body. It seemed that he wouldn't kill her. Not tonight at least.

He sat there and stared at her. Trying to remember. What had he done? "What...?" he began.

"Oh don’t give me that crap!" she screamed. "Just get out! I don't want you in here anymore. Now before I get really angry!" She slammed the bathroom door shut before the tears began to flood down her cheeks.

Dakotah hung his head. The Bloodlust still fogged his brain, rendering his memory useless. But now he was pretty sure of the trespass he'd committed. "Baby, I'm sorry,” he whispered. What was wrong with him anyway? And could he fix what he’d so thoughtlessly broken?

Dakotah: Chapter 1

2008-09-10T09:24:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: There's some blood and violence at the end there, not that they didn't get what they deserved. LOL

Bursts of rust covered the sky as the last remnants of the sunset faded slowly away. The mountain looked as if someone had set it on fire tonight. And, in fact, someone had. Mother Nature. Firemen were desperately trying to contain a fire that had been started by a lightning strike during one of Nevada's freak summer rainstorms. The smoke rising from the blaze made for an exquisite sunset. Grey clouds surrounded the setting sun, muffling and muting its glare, rendering it strangely red and dull. Just like a smoldering ball of blood.

There was something about a sunset in the desert that was different from anywhere else, Dakotah thought to himself, peering through his thick, specially treated windows. Other places you got orange and yellows, but here all you got was shades of red. It must be an omen.

He was still standing at the window when a young auburn-haired girl walked up behind him, stepping quietly in her bare feet. "Evening, Dakotah. Sleep well?"

"Like the dead," he responded without thinking.

Giggling, she replied, "Nothing unusual there. Would you like your tea?"

Turning, he frowned. "No thanks, Sierra. I think I need to hunt tonight." He paused, trying to think of a way to change the topic of conversation without brushing her off completely. He often feared his old-fashioned and brusque manner would put her off. "Did you have a good day?"

It was now her turn to frown, but only slightly. "Yeah, not too bad. Just baked some bread for Lammas. It's in just a couple days."

He took a deep breath, inhaling a fragrance he'd adored in life. "Mmm, nothing better than the smell of fresh bread." He sighed. "It's one of the few mortal pleasures I actually miss. Fresh bread and my mother’s homemade apple butter."

She smiled and shook her head in amused disbelief. How could he be such a demon and still seem so human? It was just part of his irresistible charm, she guessed.

"Why do you think you need to hunt?" she ventured. "You've been doing so well. I thought the tea was helping." The smile faded from her face, erased by the worry that came every time he hunted.

"It has been, I promise. Your tea has been working miracles on the cravings, honey. I just don't know.... there's something in the air tonight, I think." It was more instinct than anything else and he wasn’t sure just how to explain it to her, despite the fact that she probably felt it too. "Bring me my boots, would you?" Although desperately wanting to delve farther into this, Sierra immediately complied, handing them to him from the closet behind her. "Thank you," he said and stepped out into the night.

***

Shivers coursed over the vampire's skin. Even though the sun had been down for over an hour, it was still hot in the city. Bizarre as it was, intense heat had always given him shivers. And the Vegas heat was one of the few elements that still affected his undead body. Rubbing his arms vigorously, he stopped in front of the bar and looked up at the neon sign.

Midnight Brothers the sign read, causing him to smile slightly. The current rumor had it labeled as a gay bar. No, alternative lifestyle, he reminded himself, laughing. Alternative lifestyle. Right, if they only knew. Unable to hide his irrepressible smile, he entered and greeted some of his fellow nightwalkers.

"Hey, D!" called one, an irritating fledgling named Markus. "Its nights like this that remind me why I wanted to leave the days behind!"

Laughing, he agreed completely. Startled at the light touch on his shoulder, Dakotah turned and looked into the eyes of his oldest and dearest friend, Tyler. "Hey pal," he greeted him, extending his left hand to shake, and wound up being pulled into a hug.

"It's been a long time, huh?" Tyler agreed. "What's kept you away so long?"

"Ah, well, Sierra's finally made some progress. Through a lot of experimentation and a lot of prayers, she's found something that helps control my Hunger. It's amazing but true."

"Mmm, Sierra,” asked a third vampire. “So how's that little red-headed witch of yours anyway?" Brett, that was the young creature’s name.

"Good, Brett. She's doing really well. Her shop is busy as can be and she's happy as can be."

"If she's doing so well, then what brings you out tonight?" queried Tyler.

"I truly don't know. I told her it was something in the air, for lack of a better explanation. But, now that I'm out, I think I was right. There's an odd feeling out there tonight."

"Ahh, I think you've been spending too much time with that little witch," scoffed Brett. "Something in the air? You've gotta be kidding!"

Dakotah shrugged the comment off; there was bad blood between the two vampires and he wasn't about to stir it up tonight. Not if he didn't have to. Brett would lose, enough said.

Let it go, not all of the young ones are as in tune with the forces of the world as we are.

Does that make us senior citizen vampires then? Or just freaks?

Chuckling at the mental exchange, Tyler smiled at his friend. "Hey, let's go talk,” he prompted. “C'mon, I've got my usual table." He patted the other’s back, attempting to relieve the sudden tension between his friend and the rogue.

Okay, but I do need to hunt tonight, the sooner the better.

Understood. I need to as well, so we'll talk first and eat later, I promise.

Dakotah nodded and followed his friend and mentor over to the corner they always inhabited. They seated themselves in their usual places. Tyler took the chair with the view of the bar; Dakotah put his back to the wall and watched the rest of the club’s customers mill about, looking for who knew what.

"What's on your mind tonight, D?"

"I really don't know, Ty. It just doesn't feel right, ya know? Like there's something out there that just doesn't belong."

"Hmm. I haven't noticed anything, but that doesn't mean it isn't there. My concentration hasn’t exactly been at its peak lately." Tyler paused and thought for a moment before changing the subject. "Anyway, how's married life these days? I haven't had a wife in over two centuries!"

“Well, you know, Ty, some things never do change.” Both vampires laughed at that and began talking about their lives, both present and past, until the Urge came over them both.

"I think it's time," Dakotah stated.

"I think you're right. Let's go."

***

They were standing on the street corner, hassling innocent tourists with their antics. So far, they hadn't hurt anyone, but the time was quickly nearing. Impatient to be done for the night, they shoved flyers advertising female escorts into the faces of every passerby, young or old, male or female, none of the three particularly cared. Their frustration levels rose with every refusal and nasty denial. The night was young and they wanted to be part of the scene, not here where they were.

Dakotah and Tyler had intentionally wandered into a lesser-populated area of the infamous Strip generally only frequented by thugs and lowlifes. A vampire’s preferred meal. Or, at least their preferred cuisine anyway. The selection always seemed like a buffet, lots and lots to choose from, enough so you never got bored. Sadly, they were also generally overcooked. Drugs, alcohol, hard living all gave dinner a nasty aftertaste.

"Hey Mister," one of the street punks yelled, stepping out in front of a rather well-dressed older man, "take one of these! Hot girls are just a call away!"

"No thanks," the man responded calmly, attempting to push past the blonde kid and his stack of papers.

"I said, take it! I've gotta get rid of all these before I can go home and get paid so take it!" he insisted, shoving the lewd pamphlet into the man's face.

"No thank you, I'm not interested in smut," the gentleman stressed and again tried to get away. The other tourists in the vicinity made every attempt at a quick getaway, avoiding the smut peddlers at all costs. Some were luckier than others.

The punk was livid. He grabbed the tourist by his lapels and screamed in his face. "I see how you are, you with your nice suit and shoes, just oozing money and status. You don't care if an honest man can't make a living!"

Honest man? Dakotah thought rhetorically, and just a bit sarcastically.

What a bunch of punks, Tyler thought back at him.

Yeah, let's feed 'em to the wolves.

Or something like that, Kotie?

Dakotah’s response was a throaty chuckle.

Still shouting angrily, the punk started to shake the businessman roughly. Tyler approached the scene cautiously, not wanting to startle the volatile man. "Why don't you let him go and discuss this with me?"

"No! He's just another rich bastard trying to make his living off the regular folk without giving a damn about the regular folk!"

Using his friend's distraction, Dakotah stepped up behind the harasser. While quickly wrapping one arm around the punk’s waist and the other around his neck, he applied a bit of pressure to the throat area. "Let him go," he hissed in the porn-peddler's ear. "Or else." He left no room for discussion or misinterpretation.

Slowly, his fingers released the businessman. Finally free, the gentleman took off at a run, vowing loudly to never return to Las Vegas for any reason, conventions or not. "Okay punk, now it's just you, me, and your friend," he laughed viciously. "And my friends." Two more punks stepped out beside the first. A brunette grinned meanly, rubbing his hands together, while a redhead attempted to look intimidating.

Well D, I hope you're hungry. Tyler laughed softly.

Mmm, it HAS been six months, you know.

The original instigator stepped forward, pulling out a pocketknife. "Come on boys, time to play!"

Tyler leaped forward, lashing out with his foot and disarming the punk. Stunned, the blonde reacted much more slowly than usual. Tyler moved closer, getting ready to make his next move, when the punk's fist shot out towards his face. The vampire caught the blonde’s fist in his hand and forced his arm downward. "Thought I was that easy? You don't know what you're messing with." What you’re messing with, he corrected himself silently.

Growling fiercely, he jerked the man's body forward and caught him by his shoulders. In a fit of anger and frustration, he sunk his elongated teeth into the man's sweaty neck. The dust and dirt of the street and desert mingled with the blood now coursing through Tyler's mouth. He wrinkled his nose at the stink of the man but persisted in his feeding. Those 110º days don't do a body justice. Becoming limp, the body fell against Tyler and he let it fall carelessly to the street. He looked to Dakotah and saw he was holding his own.

Dakotah had one filth monger by his neck, squeezing mercilessly and had the other by his shirt collar. As he absently squeezed the man's neck, he sunk lower and lower, slowly falling to the ground, dying to the sound of his throat being crushed. The other, he pulled close to his face and grinned, bearing his fangs to the startled man.

"Do you see these?" he growled, referring to his teeth. "These are my justice. They are judge and jury when it comes to scum like you three. They also happen to be my favorite form of executioner." He barked out a rough laugh and snaked his teeth onto the redhead’s neck.

His tongue touched the salty, grit covered skin of the arrogant young man he held to his mouth. His conscience forced him to recoil from what he was about to do, but his body, the Lust that drove his actions, wouldn't let him. Fighting a battle of wills, he slowly buried his blood teeth deep into the man’s throat. His grip on the other relaxed and his dead body fell to the ground, unmoving. Discarded for another pleasure.

With the first rush of blood, he was totally lost to the Animal within. He surrendered to the euphoria wholly, completely. Drawing deeply, he felt the dirty man's heart slow and he eased up, savoring each and every drop of the rich liquid. Struggling, struggling, he fought to keep control. The Animal overcame him and his control faded. Within minutes, the third body was drained and lying on the asphalt.

Licking the remaining blood from his lips, Dakotah dumped his two dead bodies alongside the third; already at the bottom of an orange construction drop box just a half-mile from their feast. Knowing that bodies turn up every day in Las Vegas, they weren't too concerned about them being found.

And it’s not like his fingerprints were likely to show up in AFIS. If the police even bothered to check.

Dakotah: Prologue

2008-09-10T09:14:00.001-07:00

Mika's Notes: Nothing exciting to report. LOL

Prologue

Journal Entry ~ July 29

I’ve heard it said ‘that which don’t kill us makes us stronger’. If this is the truth then I fear I may be close to invincible at this point in my unlife. For better or for worse, I’m here to stay.

You see, in the three hundred plus years I’ve lived, I’ve endured – and overcome – much hardship. Wars, famine, plagues, you name it, and I’ve most likely lived through it. Horrors that those alive today cannot even begin to imagine. Or would ever want to.

So, how was I to know that there was something much more dangerous than anything I’ve ever known before lurking around my one place of safety? A threat so near to my home and my love? And who would have ever believed that an arrow to my heart would come so close to doing what all the terrors of the modern world hadn’t been able to manage?

Surely, it was a surprise to me as well.

Eternally yours,

Dakotah James

About Dakotah

2008-09-10T09:04:00.001-07:00

First of all, it has a lame title so, if you think of something while reading PLEASE let me know, k?

Second, I wrote this in July 2002. I had been on my way to my ceramics class when, waiting at a red light, I glanced over towards Mt. Charleston and observed the sunset. At the time, there had been some horrid wildfires burning out of control. The smoke and fire, however, made the most amazing blood-red sunset I'd ever seen. I started writing this story the very next day. The image of that sunset was burned into my brain.

Five years later, I pulled poor Kotah back out and dusted him off. After approximately doubling the word count, fluffing and fleshing out the story, I submitted it for a writing contest and lost. LOL But oh well, I still lurve him... :)

Warnings on this story: It's a bit more violent than my normal stuff and, of course, there's lots and lots of naughty stuff too. *G* I hope you like. I think it's one of my better pieces, although my best friend disagrees. LOL

~Mika

Romance Novels Summed Up in a Picture...

2008-09-09T08:35:00.001-07:00

LOL (Click for larger picture)

Quote of the Week

2008-09-08T08:33:00.001-07:00

"When something can be read without effort, great effort has gone into its writing."

- Enrique Jardiel Poncela

Mr. Midnight

2008-08-27T14:27:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-26T14:22:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-26T10:48:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-26T10:45:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-26T10:01:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-26T09:59:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-26T08:03:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-25T10:45:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-25T10:42:00.001-07:00

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

2008-08-25T10:30:00.001-07:00

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…

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 6

2008-08-25T10:28:00.001-07:00

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.”

“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

2008-08-25T08:35:00.001-07:00

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

Snicker

2008-08-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

Here is your couple's love horoscopefor Friday, August 22:

An especially vivid dream has inspired you -- can you make your nighttime fantasies into reality? You can! Don't be shy, tell you partner all about it. They'll love the chance to make this one come true.

I'm not even going to go there...

~Mika

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 5 B

2008-08-22T07:43:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Yeah, yet again a piece added after the fact. LOL Originally titled Dirty Deeds (and not necessarily done dirt cheap either...) Psst... and now you know why Bryan had a black eye the first time you met him...

“Got it. Thanks Caleb.” Bryan closed his cell phone and turned to the young blonde lounging across the hotel couch. “Miss Morgan?”

“Yeah, Bryan?” She sat up, putting her magazine aside.

“I thought you might like to know that Lieutenant Hart has been reassigned.”

“Who?”

“You remember the soldier assigned to act as Mr. Matson’s bodyguard?”

“Oh.” She remembered vividly the gorgeous woman and the way Blake had watched her every move. “Good, that makes me much happier.”

“I figured it would. It took some effort, but I got them to reassign her. Albert Rogan and David Haley, both male, are with him for the duration.”

“You did this?”

“Yeah,” he admitted awkwardly.

“Why?”

“Well, I saw how much it had upset you and well, to tell the truth, I wasn’t sure she was fit for the job.”

“But you said she was one of the best?”

“She is but…”

“But there’s history there, huh?” Leslie nodded, understanding, and thought about it for a moment. “Are you still together? Is that the problem?” Moving to the edge of her seat, she waited for his answer.

“No,” Bryan sighed. “We haven’t been together for awhile now. But, it’s hard to get used to it. We were a couple for close to three years.”

“What happened?”

He looked around, not really wanting to tell her the truth. “I guess I got a bit overbearing.” And that’s a complete understatement if I’ve ever heard one. “She, being not just a soldier, but a strong-willed independent woman, didn’t take to it very well.” He shrugged, attempting to fight off all the old demons he still harbored.

Leslie watched him closely, observing all the subtle facial changes he experienced when working through the emotions he attached to this other woman. It was clear he still cared for her, but how much? “Is she the one who gave you the black eye? The day we met?”

“Oh!” He rubbed his eye, remembering. “Yeah, she’s usually the one.” His hand dropped from his cheek and fell limply to his lap. “I was pretty lost without her at first.” Standing suddenly, he left his seat at the desk and sat on the coffee table in front of her.

“And now?” She leaned forward, placing one hand on his wrist.

He looked up and met her eager eyes. “I think… I know I’m better now.”

She squeezed his wrist, smiling up at him. “I’m glad to hear it. I hate it when a woman gets a good man so down.”

“Well,” he grinned, “I have you to thank for helping me get over her. You’ve… given me hope for a second chance.”

Leslie turned his arm over, exposing the underside of his forearm and palm. Tracing a line from the crook of his elbow to the base of his fingers, she pretended to consider his words. Unable to hide the smile, and unexplainable rush of desire, overtaking her, she concentrated on the whorls of dark hair covering his skin. When did this happen? She asked herself. When did I start being attracted to him? He’s so not my type. “Ya know, Bryan? I think I’m ready for a second chance too.” Placing her palm in his, she entwined their fingers.

“But you’re not single. Or, are you having problems with…”

Her smile stopped his ramblings. “Not yet, we aren’t, but a girl can’t be too careful, can she? Gotta always be prepared for the future.”

Bryan swallowed hard, and nodded. “Absolutely, ma’am.”

“Please,” she chided, “if we’re going to work so… closely… you’ve got to start calling me Leslie.”

“Yes ma’am, Leslie,” he grinned. “It never hurts to be prepared.”

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 5 Interlude

2008-08-22T07:39:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Joe Nichols sings a song called "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" that I most likely had been listening to about then... LOL

A Note on Red’s Pillow

Shana,

I’m back temporarily. No clue why they flew me all the way back here only to ship me back to where I was already.

I’m ticked. I don’t want to be here. Gods only know what Albie and Bazooka are telling him as we speak. I shudder at the thought.

<sigh> I miss him.

Meet me for a drink? I think I’m in need of one badly. Wonder if he knows Joe Nichols? I hear a bottle of Cabo Wabo calling my name.

A desperate,

Ali

Code Red: The First Mission: Chapter 5

2008-08-22T07:36:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Not a lot to say here except that it was originally titled On a Good Day... and the last line will tell you why. LOL

“Excuse us for a moment, if you will, Mr. Matson,” Albert grabbed Ali by the arm and glared at her. “I need to speak with my associate and get debriefed. Bazooka will let you in on our immediate concerns and interests.”

Blake nodded absently, wondering if there was more to the friendship than either said. Realizing the other soldier was talking to him, he reluctantly tore his eyes from Ali and turned his gaze on the one they called Bazooka.

~*~

“What the fuck do you think you were doing?” he demanded in a strangled voice, trying very hard not to yell.

“Um, trying to get laid, what did it look like?

“Ali, I love you and all…”

“But?”

“But, what would you have done if it had been Bryan instead of ‘Zook and I at the door?”

“Given him a broken nose to go with that black eye?” she suggested.

“You are incorrigible.”

“No, just lonely. That’s all.”

Albie sighed and pulled her into a hug. “I’m sorry. This life sucks but it’s all we’ve got.” She nodded into his shoulder. “Well, you’ve still got me.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” she mumbled. “And you’re staying here with my stud while I’m being shipped who knows where.”

“Las Vegas.”

She looked up. “Really?”

“Yup. There’s a good chance we might meet back up again.” He returned her smile and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. “So, is he really so hot that you’d risk it all to be with him for one night?”

“It’s not the hot factor, although that’s through the roof…”

“So? You’ve been assigned to watch men just as good-looking and never crossed the line like this before. So why now? What is it about this one man that would make you put your career on the line?”

Ali shrugged, knowing the real answer sounded even more stupid than she felt at the moment. “He’s just a really nice guy, Albie. Nothing more, nothing less.”

“Holy shit!” he stage whispered. “You’re in loooove.” Ali rolled her eyes and walked down the hallway to her hotel room.

~*~

Blake watched as Ali boarded the tour bus and walked carefully past him. He caught her arm while she tried to maneuver herself into a seat behind him. “I don’t think so. I need to talk to you.”

“What’s to talk about?” knowing full well exactly what they had to talk about.

“Why are you here?” he motioned to the bus in general.

Ali sighed and looked for Albie. “They’re dragging me along with you to Tulsa and then I’ll be reassigned from there. We have a small base in the area.” Not seeing either her brother or Bubble Gum Brain in the area, she took Blake’s hand and gave it a squeeze. “I’m really sorry…”

He put a finger to her lips. “Shh. Don’t apologize. I knew better. I just didn’t care.”

She sighed. “Me either.” Then, quietly, “I don’t want to be reassigned.” Ali laid her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. “Wake me when it’s over,” she mumbled.

“Okay, now you’re just being silly,” she heard as she was dragged out of her seat. “Go. Now. Back of the bus, baby.”

Ali glared at Albie as he pushed her down the aisle. “But who…”

“’Zook. Now go.”

Realizing that it was pointless to argue, she shut her mouth and slumped into a seat.

He looked at her quizzically. “Man, that was WAY too easy.”

She just glared at him and pulled out a book. “I’m not talking to you, you mean thing.”

Laughing, he settled himself down on the bus seat. “It’s a long way to Tulsa, honey, you’d better get over yourself soon.” His smile faded a bit as he met a pair of blue eyes across the length of the bus. Albert shrugged and mouthed, “Sorry,” to the questing eyes. The eyes narrowed and then returned to the front.

~*~

“Just give me five minutes, please. How much trouble can I get into in five minutes?”

Cocking his head to the side, Albie grinned. “I see you’ve forgotten about Radney Dee. I think it only took him three and a half.”

Ali rolled her eyes. “I was sixteen. What do you expect?”

“I’m not sure, but all I do know is you’ve learned a lot since then. Five minutes. No more.” He stalked away.

Ali turned at a knock on the door. “Come in.”

Blake poked his head in and smiled. “Your friend said you were looking for me.”

It’d be just like him to start my five minutes from that moment too, she thought. Taking his hand, she smiled. “Yeah, Al was generous enough to give us five minutes before I have to report in.”

Flashing an evil grin, Blake commented, “Now, that’s not nearly enough time for what I had planned.” The grin faded, quickly. “Come here.”

She obeyed and fell into his arms.

“I’m going to miss you. What will I do without you?”

“Believe me, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dork won’t give you enough time to miss me.” She pulled back and looked him in the eye. “But seriously, you’ll be fine. They may be dorks, but they’re two of my very best friends and two very good officers. They’ll take good care of you.”

“I was kinda getting used to how you were taking care of me,” he murmured.

“Now you’re being a tease.”

“No, now you’re leaving.” Ali turned to see her brother in the doorway. “Besides, Stone’s here and is waiting on you to fly back to our base.” Turning to Blake he said, “So kiss her and let her get her butt in gear.”

“Yes sir!” he gave a mock salute and planted one on Ali and quickly let her go. “You get going. I don’t want to cause any more trouble.”

She sighed dejectedly as he and Alex walked out of the door. “And as you can plainly see, I’m not having a good day…” she sang to herself.

Complicated

2008-08-21T17:52:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Since I had to go register my new truck today, I sat and wrote this on my phone. Yeah, I know, how sad am I? But hey, it kept me occupied and now you get some fresh, new material

WARNINGS: A tiny bit of bad language, sorta explicit scene, and some yummy m(ale)/m(ale) action... You were warned.

(August 21, 2008)

"Hi, I'm Deke..." he began that night, "and it's complicated."

Complicated? Calculus is complicated. This? This shit was insane. Now, it all started out nice and normal and then, before you know it, his fangs are in my dick.

See? Complicated, my ass.

What's worse is, with the way he was sucking on me, I didn't even notice at first. But then I has to get nosy. I had to see what that beautiful mouth looked like wrapped around my cock. Freakin' idiot.

I pushed myself halfway into a sitting position and looked down at all those long auburn curls... And he looked up with those entrancing amber eyes and smiled.

And then I saw the blood.

Deke must've sensed my building panic because at that moment, he swallowed me whole, took a drag of my manhood like it was some sort of fleshy cigarette and made me come. Hard.

I woke up a few hours later, exhausted, hungry, and ready for more.

Deke grinned and handed me a glass of orange juice. "I told you it was complicated."

I repeat: complicated my ass.

A Journey of a Thousand Steps

2008-08-21T15:21:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Have I ever told you how much I like to lie to myself? LOL But seriously, I needed to write something and this just popped out. Mind you, it's all true. Well, all except the power guy. My meter's read remotely. LOL But um, well, I did fall flat on my face across the front seat of my truck this morning. *sigh* Just a day in the life...

A Journey of a Thousand Steps…

(August 21, 2008)

…begins with a fall. Or so I had heard and never really believed.

I woke up feeling ill. My annual summer cold, I figured, so I gargled with some high octane mouthwash and headed downstairs to feed my fuzzball of a hamster and get ready for work. I packed my lunch, grabbed my cell phone, my mp3 player and my book. After dumping my stuff in the passenger’s seat, I climbed into the driver’s side, dropped my phone into the cup holder and went on my way.

Halfway to my morning fix I realized I’d forgotten my wallet. Damn! I turned the truck around and headed back home. Luckily, I wasn’t far.

Grumbling, I stumbled into the house, grabbed my wallet and almost ran into the meter reader. Was it time for the power to be read again already? I cringed at the thought. “Sorry,” I mumbled, embarrassed but not surprised by my clumsiness.

Sighing, I tugged on the door and proceeded to climb in… only to have my foot slip off the running board. My foot loosing traction caused my shin to bash against the runner and my knee to become close friends with the edge of the truck. Being the ever-so-graceful person that I am, I flew face-first into the bench seat of my Dodge, smacking my head on the steering wheel.

Lovely. Just. Freaking. Lovely.

Rubbing my head, I regained my composure and pulled myself to my feet. Looking up, I gazed right into the deep brown eyes of the power guy. He stifled a laugh, I could tell. “Yeah?” I asked.

“You okay?” Yeah, he WAS laughing. Jerk.

“Um, yeah. I meant to do that.”

“Okay… if you say so.”

“I do.”

“Be safe then.”

Yeah. As if. But before I could comment, he turned and walked down the driveway to his truck, shoulders shaking at my expense.

Darn him anyway.

Just wait until next month.

The Weekend ~ Steve Wariner

2008-08-21T14:57:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I swore to myself that I wouldn't post any more today. Already went and changed my archiving to weekly because the monthly well... go look. LOL But, I'm sitting here reading and listening to some music when this flash from the past hits me and I think about how appropriate it is to the entire Ali & Blake situation (and believe me, they HAVE a situation LOL). So, I thought I'd share.

And well, um, now that I think about it... he has one more song that fits them as well (and one that my Blake's namesake likes to sing in concert)... Lonely Women Make Good Lovers. *SNORT*

The Weekend

Couple of days isn't a very long time
Why can't I just walk away, I used to be good at goodbyes...
Out on the water...under the stars...
I let the moonlight play a trick on my heart

[CHORUS]
You had some fun for the weekend
But I'll be in love for the rest of my life
You took me out to the deep end
And I fell right over I didn't think twice
I found got something worth keepin
And if I can't have you tonight....
At least I had the weekend

The radio plays the sound of the waves rolling in
the smell of the night sure can get under your skin
Just for a moment...I held you too close
Now I'm all out of time and I don't want to let go

[REPEAT CHORUS]

[BRIDGE]
How much can happen in a night or two?
I guess its all depending on your point of view....
You had some fun for the weekend (girl)
But I'll be in love for the rest of my life
You took me out to the deep end
And I fell right over I didn't think twice
Finally got something worth keeping
And if I can't have you tonight
At least I had the weekend...

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 4 Interlude

2008-08-21T14:20:00.001-07:00

LOL I think that, looking back, I was having entirely too much fun with this.

Another Letter to Shana

From: crazyalirae

To: Scarlettfire

Subject: Cowboy ~ or Playboy?

Howdy Partner!

Oh my gawd. Oh MY gawd. Is there really anything else to say? Oh heck, I’ve gotta say it again: Oh. My. GAWD!

But I’ve really done it good this time. Was it worth it? Oh, hell yeah. LOL. No help for me, I guess. Not sure at this point if I really want any help either. My only regret is that it didn’t go any further than it did. Did I just say that out loud?

Man, it’s been too long since I’ve been this close to a real man. Tired of all these leatherneck wanna-bees. And the drama! You’d think we were stuck with a bunch of women with a testosterone problem! Really! What a mess.

And now I’ve lost it all.

And what timing. Couldn’t expect anything less out of Albie and Bubble Gum Brain. As much as I hate to admit it, I think it was for the best. They kept me from really screwing up. Badly. Not that I like it or anything…

<in a tiny voice> Help!

No, not really. I don’t think I want to be saved right now. Give me a few weeks and ask me again. I’ve got to figure out how to refocus now. Just as long as he doesn’t smile at me, I should be okay. <rolls eyes> But I guess since he’s on his way to the East Coast and I’m on my way to Vegas, not much chance of that happening, is there?

Heck, who am I kidding? I’ve got it bad. And he knows it, too.

Eternally in trouble,

Ali

P. S. Blake introduced me to someone I think you might like. Cute AND buff. And he can sing too! Meetcha in LV in a few months… Maybe we can go stalk ‘em both then. You game?

P. S. S. How’d he and I wind up here anyway?

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 4

2008-08-21T14:16:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Aww, poor Blake!

Ali stood off to the side of the stage, hidden from the audience by a pile of speakers. Her view, however, was totally unobstructed. Blake was on his second encore, and so far, so good. No trouble or threats of any kind. Not unless you counted the surge of star-struck females that kept trying to pull him into the crowd. She smiled at the thought of it. How many of them would know what to do with him if they got him?

“Thanks ya’ll!” he called to the crowd. “Good night!”

Moving past her, Blake reached out and touched her arm, followed immediately by his band. She turned smartly on her heel and followed them. Smiling at his drummer, she moved past him and stepped up to Blake’s side. “Good show, as usual. Those women love you.”

He looked away a bit uneasily. “Yeah, they get a bit crazy sometimes.”

“Aw, they can’t help themselves. You’re just too darn cute.”

He looked at her sideways. “You’re being sarcastic.”

“Just another service I offer,” she teased, squeezing his arm playfully. “Wait,” she said, stopping him from reaching for the door to the tour bus. “Let me check first. And don’t give me that look. I’m here to look after you. All of you.”

He gave her a mock bow and allowed her to check out each bus before letting them all aboard. “All clear guys, go ahead.” They all nodded their thanks, moving around her to get onto their busses. At first, Blake and his band mates had been a bit uncomfortable around her but, as the weeks wore on, they got used to her presence. Now, they were even happy to have her around.

“Where are we headed next?” she asked the driver.

“Back to the hotel for the night. We leave tomorrow afternoon to head to the next place.”

“Good. Thanks.” She patted the bus driver on the shoulder and moved down the aisle, deciding on a seat. Blake grabbed her arm as she passed.

“I may not smell all that great but I’d like to talk to you, if you don’t mind.”

Laughing, she took the seat next to him. “I’m so used to being around nasty, sweaty men that I probably won’t even notice.”

He shook his head and smiled at her. “The guys and I would like to thank you for all you’ve done for us since you joined the party. We appreciate you keeping us safe. That last time… well, it scared the crap outta us all. Don’t want to go through that again, ever.” He looked out the window, trying to control his emotions. “I guess what I wanna say is, could I buy you dinner? As a thank you, just a thank you, I promise. If you’d rather not, after all that’s happened, I can live with no.”

Ali looked into his blue eyes and saw how scared he was to be asking her out. She figured it had to be the gun. Men don’t trust a woman who was packing. And their near-miss a few weeks ago? Couldn’t possibly be that. So, she decided to go easy on him. “Sure. Sounds good to me. Tonight? Or sometime later?”

“No, tonight, if that’s okay.” She nodded and he relaxed a bit. “And I’ll shower first,” he added quickly.

“Awww… but I like my men all hot and sweaty,” she teased.

He leaned in conspiratorially, “Shh… that comes later.”

Ali couldn’t help but laugh. And hope.

~*~

Ali knocked twice on the hotel room door. A muffled “coming” came from inside moments before the door opened and a pair of blue eyes peeked out. Smiling, Blake let her in. “Ready?” she asked.

“Yep. Let’s go,” he smiled and grabbed his hat.

“What is it with that thing?”

“I like my hat, thank you.”

“I like it too, but doesn’t it need some alone time?”

Blake growled at her and placed it firmly on his head.

Ali sighed. “So much for all that beautiful hair.”

Aside from the hat, he looked good. She watched him close the door, noticing the way his worn, faded jeans hugged his legs and thighs and totally molded to his firm backside. Smiling, he took her hand and led her down the hall to the elevator.

“I like this shirt,” she told him while they waited on the elevator to arrive. “The blues and greys really make your eyes stand out. As if they weren’t blue enough already.”

“Thanks.” He got quiet for a moment as the elevator arrived. While punching the button to take them to the ground floor, he looked her over. “You aren’t so bad yourself, tonight. Green isn’t your color, you know.”

“Well, I highly doubt olive drab green is anyone’s color, but it’s okay. Better than those nasty desert cams anyway.” She laughed. “But you ought to see me in forest or hunter or even lime green.”

Blake grinned and shook his head. “This is gonna be one heck of a night, I can tell already.”

“Baby, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet,” Ali sang.

“Oh lord, help me,” he teased.

~*~

“This is actually pretty good for a hotel restaurant,” Blake commented, pushing his empty plate away. “How’s your dinner?”

“Great, thanks.” Ali pushed her nearly clean plate away too.

“Nice to see a woman who isn’t afraid to have an appetite.”

She looked a bit sheepish, and then laughed. “It comes from being a soldier. You eat when you get food because you never know when the next meal’s gonna be.”

“Well, I like it. Dessert?”

“Absolutely!”

“You’re a bit too eager, I think,” he teased.

“Only when it comes to dessert,” she hinted.

Resisting the urge to turn twelve shades of red, Blake buried his face in the dessert menu. “Mmm… chocolate cake.”

~*~

Blake took Ali’s hand again outside his door. “I hope that threat of replacing you doesn’t come true anytime soon, I’m just getting used to you.”

“Well, gee, thanks,” she joked.

“I think you know what I mean. I’d miss you if you left.”

It seemed to take a lot for him to admit it. “I’d miss you guys too.”

“And me?”

“And especially you, you big dork.”

He grinned his goofy grin. “That’d be me.” Blake caressed her face with one hand. “You’re tall for a woman. It’s not often I can look someone in the eyes without getting a crick in my neck.”

She smiled. She’d noticed the same thing. “I’m six-foot-one. Still quite a bit shorter than you, but not bad.” She took his hand from her face, kissed the palm, and let it go. “Thank you for dinner, although you didn’t have to thank me for doing my job.” She allowed him to continue holding her hand; she wasn’t quite ready for him to let go yet.

Placing his freed hand on the back of her neck he leaned in and briefly pressed his lips against hers. “I don’t want to say goodnight yet.”

“Then don’t.”

By way of response, he pulled her through the door and hung the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on the handle in record time.

~*~

Blake didn’t even bother to flip the light on. The courtesy light gave him enough illumination to see what he was doing and not kill himself in the process. He pulled her close to him and tilted her head just enough to look into her eyes. Brushing her hair from her face, he asked desperately, “Are you sure you…”

She cut him off with a kiss. The tension left his body and he returned the kiss heartily, hands moving along her back. One settled along her waist while the other wound its way back to her neck. “I know I shouldn’t, but I’m not sure we’ll ever get another chance. And I can’t let you get away, I’d regret it for the rest of my life.” She pressed herself against the length of his body, causing a well-anticipated reaction in him.

Blake sighed into her mouth, giving in to his body’s demands. Ali pushed away slightly, breaking the kiss.

“This has got to go,” she murmured, tossing his hat onto the dresser. Running her fingers though his disheveled curls she grinned. “I just love your hat hair. It’s so sexy.”

“And I think you’ve lost your mind, honey.” He pulled her back against him. “Now get back here.”

She gave him a throaty chuckle and prepared to show him just how lost her mind was.

~*~

“Mmmm…”

“Heh. I like the sound of that.”

“Then keep kissing me, Cowboy.”

“Yes ma’am.” Blake turned his attention back to her neck and inhaled deeply. Nipping lightly at her skin, he guided her back towards the bed. “You smell so good.”

“See? That’s what a shower will do for you.”

Biting playfully, he nipped a bit harder than before, causing a squeal to escape her lips.

“Oh god, that was so not me that just did that.”

“Mmm… but I think it’s perfectly you,” and he laughed that sexy, masculine laugh.

She slid her hands into his back pockets and pressed his hips against hers, hoping he’d get the point. And by the way he felt he was getting the point very clearly.

“You’re gonna get yourself into trouble doing things like that.”

“Trouble? I was lookin’ to get lucky.”

Groaning, “You just might get that too.” He began to release her trapped shirt from her jeans, biting at her lips while he tugged.

A knock at the door startled them both.

“Mr. Matson? Are you in there?”

“Shit!” she hissed, tucking her shirt back in as best as she could.

Blake gave her an inquiring look then turned to the door. “Depends on who’s on the other side.”

“Lt. Albert Rogan and Bazooka Joe. We’re here to relieve Lt. Hart.”

Grinning, Blake turned back to her. “It takes two men to replace you?”

Ali shrugged and winked. “You’ll understand when you meet them.”

Wondering how he got caught up in all this, Blake sighed. “Okay, I’m coming.” He looked to her and whispered, “Are you okay? Can I let ‘em in?”

Ali nodded, not trusting herself enough to speak.

Returning her nod, he turned on the light and let the two replacements in.

~*~

Albert gave his adopted sister an eloquent look as he passed by her and into the room. “New uniform?”

“It’s called being inconspicuous. If I look like ‘em, then they don’t suspect.”

“Mmm… so that’s what it’s called.” He grinned at her, noting the flushed cheeks and scowl on her face. “Your secret’s safe with me, lover.”

“I really hate you some days, Albie.”

“Yeah, I know. But it’s all good.”

She rolled her eyes at him, knowing it didn’t do any good to lie. He knew her better than she knew herself, or so it seemed.

“We’ve been sent to take over. Ali’s got a more important assignment that requires her special skills,” Bazooka, also sometimes known as Lt. David Haley, was saying.

Blake looked over his head and caught her eye. “Special skills?” His blue eyes sparkled at her. “Should I be jealous?”

“Jealous?” ‘Zook scratched his head, confused. “No, she’s a disguise expert able to impersonate just about anyone she has a mind to. And her talents are needed.”

Albie looked at her sideways and mouthed, “Jealous?”

She smacked him and took a place next to Blake. “These are two of our more, um, interesting officers. Albert Rogan, mountaineer and all-around geek, and good friend,” she motioned towards the geek in question and he nodded. “And David Haley, expert in the area of explosives and anything noisy, hence the code name of Bazooka.” Bazooka nodded in acknowledgement and blew a big, pink bubble.

“And this is where the nickname comes from,” Albie explained, popping Bazooka’s bubble all over his face.

“Nickname?”

“Yeah,” Ali grinned. “Bubble Gum Brain.”

Blake lifted his eyes to the ceiling and mouthed, “Why me?”

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 3 B

2008-08-21T09:48:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: Are you laughing yet? This was titled Trouble in Paradise and is yet another section added after the fact. I keep hoping all this is adding depth but am horribly afraid it's just confusing the issue...

Opening her eyes, she looked around the living area of the hotel room. Not seeing anything immediately, Ali sat up and rubbed her eyes, scanning the darkness a second time. There it is again. Leaving her bed on the couch, she checked the door to make sure it was locked. Moving to the kitchen, she assured that all was code green: good to go.

This flippin’ hotel room is nicer than my damn apartment.

“So what the hell am I hearing?” she asked herself quietly. “Front door is secure, balcony door ditto. Kitchen and all other areas clear. And Bryan’s sound asleep on the floor.”

Ali made a second round of the hotel room and paused outside Blake’s door. Lifting her hand, she got ready to knock when she discovered the source of the noise. She closed her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose with two fingers. I do not want to know what they’re doing. I do not even wanna…

“Ali?”

She turned quickly, firearm ready. “Damn, Bryan!” Lowering her weapon, she glared at him. “You know better than to sneak up on me!”

“Sorry. Noticed you were up. Is everything okay?”

“Yeah. Thought I heard something is all.” Returning to the couch, she sat and stretched. “It was apparently just them.”

“Them?” He looked back over his shoulder and realized whom she meant. “Oh. Yeah.” He frowned for a second before asking, “Were they… um, are they…”

An odd mix of emotion crossed his face as Ali watched the situation hit home with him. Sparing him the effort, she just nodded. “I’m assuming so. Either that or there is someone in there murdering Miss Morgan.”

Bryan’s frown deepened. “That’s not funny.”

“I know, I know. What did you want me to say?”

“Nothing, Allyson. I’m going back to bed.”

Ali let go of her anger and her jealousy. “I’m sorry, Bryan. This has just been a long, boring assignment. I’m tired. I want to go home. I’m enjoying the company, but there just doesn’t appear to be a threat anywhere. I feel like I’m wasting my time.” Wasting my time chasing a man I can’t have, maybe.

“Well then, I guess you’ll be happy to hear that as soon as your brother and his cohort return from their current assignment, they’ll be replacing you here.

Panic flooded her suddenly. What did he just say? “I’m being reassigned in the middle of this? I don’t think you’ve ever taken me off an assignment before it was complete.”

“You just said yourself that you were bored. Besides, we have need of you elsewhere. Now, I’m really going back to bed.”

“Night, Bryan,” she mumbled. She watched him bed down on the floor, thankful for his insisting she sleep on the couch. Lying against the arm of the couch, she stared at the ceiling, relieved that in the darkness he hadn’t been able to read her expression. What would he have seen anyway? Hurt? Anger? Frustration?

Who knows, Ali? Does it even matter now anyway? Now that it’s clear Blake isn’t quite done with Leslie yet?

She squeezed her eyes closed against the flood that threatened at their rims. Breathing slow and deep, she forced herself to relax and rein in her rampant emotions. This was completely unlike her to get caught up in a man like this. When the hell did she become so attached? And why? It couldn’t have been because of what happened earlier. Sex was just that – sex. And it didn’t matter how hot the Cowboy was. Not like they’d managed to get very far anyway. Just enough to get her started. And apparently unable to stop.

Ali knew better, even if she was unwilling to admit it to herself. She’d fallen hard for the tall, lanky goofball on the day they’d met. He had a knack for being irritating and loveable all at the same time. His goofy personality melded with his immeasurable talent and boyish good looks and hit her right where she was weakest: her heart. Despite knowing ahead of time that he’d had a girlfriend, she couldn’t help but be attracted to him; he was one of the few men she knew who still treated her like a woman, and not like what she was: a soldier. She was in deep and couldn’t see any way out.

~*~

He watched her brewing coffee in her pajamas. Dressed in nothing but a tank top and cast-off boxers, she had his complete attention, even at this early hour. Needing to feel her body against his, he stepped behind her and reached an arm around her waist.

“Don’t touch me, Blake.”

“How’d you…” he asked, confused.

“I could hear you breathing. Besides, I’m trained not to miss things like that. Be glad of it too.”

“I just want a hug.”

Ali looked over her shoulder and frowned at him. His hair stuck up in wild cowlicks across his head while his deep blue eyes still held that sleepy ‘just-woke-up’ look. “You smell like her cologne.”

Blake took her by the arm and turned her until they were face-to-face. “Does that mean you’re jealous?”

“No,” she swallowed her initial positive response, forcing herself into her persona-mode. “It just means I’m stupid.”

“That’s not fair,” he protested, trying to keep her from walking away.

“Only as fair as you using my lonely heart against me to pass the time with.” And that was completely unfair. “If all you were looking for was a night or two, you should have just told me before…” She quickly bit off the rest of her response, before her poor, lonely heart could completely betray her.

“Before what?” He moved closer, backing her against the kitchen counter. “And what makes you think I don’t want more from you?”

Blake leaned in to kiss her; she pushed him back, more roughly than she’d intended. “You do realize Bryan is up and on the prowl, right? You cannot touch me like this when he’s around. Or at all anymore.” She moved out of his reach and poured herself a bowl of cereal. “And how do I know you don’t want more? Shall I point out how loud the two of you were last night?” She instantly regretted her remarks. He at least had the courtesy to look ashamed.

“I’d say I didn’t have a choice but I know you wouldn’t buy that.”

“Not a chance, Cowboy.”

He gave her a sideways grin. “And it wouldn’t really be true anyway. You had me so riled up yesterday…”

She held one hand up. “’Nuff said. I really don’t want any more details.”

His grin broadened suddenly. “I could always show you.”

“Show her what?” Bryan asked from the doorway. “And what the hell are you wearing, Ali?”

“My ‘jamas,” she told him, carrying her cereal to the dining area.

“And you?”

Blake shrugged. “Just offering to show her how to shoot a bow. Told me she already knew.” He shrugged again, following Ali to the table.

He sat down across from her, watching her eat. Bryan moved behind her, studying their reactions to one another. “I’m going to check on Miss Morgan since you two seem to be on task.”

Once he’d left the area, Blake caught Ali’s gaze. “I want so much more with you than you’ll let me have. I could give you everything you’ve ever dreamed of and then some. I’m not as successful as a lot of these guys are, but I do okay.” He took her hand in his and squeezed. “And I can love you like no one’s business, if you let me.”

She pulled her hand back. “You know that can’t happen, we’ve had this discussion already. Besides, men don’t date girls like me.”

“I would.”

“Yeah, but you’re not all there either.”

He grinned. “Yeah, not the first time I’ve been told that.”

“Won’t be the last either, I’m sure.” She put her spoon down and sighed. “I can’t even begin to tell you how much I want to say ‘Okay, Blake, let’s go’. But it’s more complicated than that.”

“Yeah, don’t remind me.” Blake stood, looking down at her. “Just remember this the next time you’re feeling lonely, okay? I’d give anything for another chance. But I think I ought to go check on Lee myself.”

He left her sitting at the table with her cereal and her thoughts. What I wouldn’t give to be able to let you have another chance…

Wearily, she stood and returned her dishes to the kitchen. In silence, she washed and then dried her bowl. Carefully placing it back in the cupboard, she wondered what a real relationship would be like. It’d been too long since she’d had one, it was almost impossible to imagine.

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 3 A

2008-08-21T09:28:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: This was originally titled Where'd It Go? and was based on a writing challenge that said: Write a short story based on the phrase 'I just couldn't remember where I left my gun after...' Heaven help me, but I immediately thought of Ali. Poor girl. So, this was also added after I'd finished the first draft. Kinda funny, and oh so Ali & Blake... Tiny warning though: they get a bit frisky, but nothing explicit.

Carefully following her established routine, she took notice of anything that might possibly be different than it had when they’d left two hours ago, before the show had started. Not seeing anything out of place, she turned to the door and motioned Blake in. Another day down, how many left to go?

“All clear, Cowboy.”

He nodded at her, smiling. “Thanks.”

“It’s my job.” She moved to the side, allowing him to move past her. Watching as he made his way to the back of the bus, he paused long enough to tap in his code and enter his makeshift bedroom. “And you’re welcome,” she breathed as the door closed behind him.

Ali had just settled on the couch when he poked his head back out. “Aren’t you coming?”

“Should I be?” The gods only know how badly I’d like to…

He flashed her a sexy smile full of promise and wickedness in response. “I don’t know, should you?” He let the door close behind him, leaving her sitting with her thoughts.

Heaven help me, she scolded herself. I know I shouldn’t but… how can I not?

Ali stood nervously and made her way to the back of the bus. Lifting a fist, she knocked quickly. Her heart pounded as she waited for him to answer.

His blue eyes were shining with mischief when he peered out at her. “And I thought you’d just let yourself in.”

She shrugged, trying to hide the shaking of her hands. “Not my room.”

Grinning, he teased, “It could be.”

Blake took her hand and pulled her into his room. Backing her against the door, he tilted her chin up, kissing her soundly. He put both hands on her face, cradling her chin between them. The rasp of stubble against her bare skin sent shivers of excitement through her. She lifted her hands to his, placing hers over his, then allowing them to slide down to his forearms.

“You have no idea how long,” he kissed her again, stealing the gasp of pleasure from her mouth, “I’ve wanted to taste you like this.”

Ali closed her eyes, trying to calm her pounding heart and tame her racing thoughts. Pressing her hands against his chest, she pushed him back. “Blake, stop. This can’t…”

“It can, Cookie. If you let me.”

“It’s not you it’s…” He stopped her protest with his tongue. She pushed him back again, angry. “Damn you, you’re not making this any easier.”

He let her go and stepped back. “Hey, you came back here, remember?”

Yeah, but you asked me to. Ali rubbed her eyes with her fingertips. “I know. I’m sorry. My brain wasn’t working at that moment. I think your grin short-circuited it.” Or your tongue maybe.

Running his fingers through his hair, he looked at her helplessly. “What now then? I’ve already embarrassed myself by coming on to you. And you don’t want me.”

She hung her head in defeat. “You have that so wrong. It’s not that I don’t want to; it’s more that I’d rather not go to jail over disobeying a direct order.” She laughed. “You’d have to be one hell of a lover to make me wanna do that.”

“You’ll never know unless you try.” He grinned until he saw the conflict of emotion on her face. “You’d really go to jail over something so stupid?”

She nodded. “You forget that one of my superiors is a jealous ex. The other is the jealous ex’s best friend.”

“Ah. I see. So, you were ordered not to sleep with me? How rude.”

Ali couldn’t help but laugh. “I was ordered not to get involved in any manner. With any of you.”

“This is why nobody likes you. You rain on my parade.”

“Sorry, Cowboy. Forgive me for being a tease?”

“Only if you let me kiss you again.”

“Blake…”

He moved closer, tilting her face up to his again. “No one will have to know. I sure as hell won’t tell anyone.” Lightly, he pressed his lips against hers and pulled back. “Will you?”

“Nark on myself? Not a chance.” She allowed him to kiss her cheek, chin, and neck. “But if you keep biting me like that, it’s going to be obvious.”

His laugh tickled her skin. “Well then, I guess I’ll just have to bite where it won’t show.”

Please? “What about your girlfriend?”

He pulled back and looked her in the eye. “Your pal told my band she was gettin' friendly with your ex. Why should I care?”

“Because Bryan lies like a rug when it comes to women.”

“Don’t we all?” He kissed her again, wrapping an arm around her waist. “Even so, I know her. She had no problem coming on to me while I was still married. Why wouldn’t she do this too?” Blake braced his free hand against the wall. “So, now that we’ve settled that, the first thing I need to do is this.” He pulled her gun from its holster at the small of her back. Leaning sideways, he dropped it on his dresser. “Now, if I make a wrong move you’ll just deck me and not shoot me.”

Ali laughed again. He had that effect on her; it didn’t matter how dire the situation, he could always make her smile. Just the thing she needed. Relaxing against the door, she let him kiss her. Why fight it? Bryan’s been accusing me of sleeping with him since I started this assignment. Might as well make him right. Can’t possibly get into any more trouble than I’m already in…

Blake pulled her shirt from her jeans, sliding one hand up her stomach. She fell against his chest as the driver pulled out of the venue parking lot and started down the road. They jolted back against the door as the bus stopped at a red light. The sudden stop causing her gun to roll off the dresser and onto the floor.

Leaning away from him she muttered, “Just let me…”

Blake spun her around, causing her to topple onto the bed that was now behind her. “No ya don’t, Cookie. You can get it later.” He climbed onto the bed next to her.

“But…”

“Nope. Not gonna listen.”

He turned his attention to the buttons on her shirt, slowly popping each open and placing a kiss on every exposed inch of skin as he progressed. With the last button, he opened her shirt completely, exposing her tanned skin and olive green bra.

“Do you not own anything in any other color?”

“Will you be disappointed if my undies match?”

Blake cocked his head and thought about it. “I guess if I managed to make it that far, I don’t have the right, do I?”

She just shook her head, unable to dispute his logic. His fingertips brushed across the button of her pants. Deftly, he popped it open as well, tugging the zipper down as he went.

“Oh no,” she muttered, reaching for her hip.

“What did I…” his voice trailed off, seeing her reach for her phone. “Oh no is right, you are not going…”

“I have to,” she sighed, freeing her phone from its holster. “I haven’t checked in yet.” Glancing at the display, her worst fears were confirmed. “Keep your mouth shut.” Flipping her phone open, she said curtly, “Lt. Hart.”

“Took you long enough,” Bryan replied sourly. “Where are you?”

“On Mr. Matson’s bus.” She frowned at Blake who rolled his eyes at her formal manner. “We only just left the venue about ten minutes ago. The driver is taking us back to the hotel for the night; we leave early in the morning for the next show.”

Blake rolled his eyes again and made a ‘get on with it’ gesture. She grinned despite herself. It’d been too long since she’d had a man so eager to be with her. Unable to wait for her, he slid his fingers inside the waistband of her panties. Disgusted with the realization that they did match her bra, he gave them a tug and made a face.

Attempting to continue her conversation with her commanding officer, she smacked the back of his head and glared. “Yes, Bryan. I understand. No, everything is normal here.” Yeah, okay, so maybe not?

“Good. We’re in the area as well and will be meeting up with you at the hotel. We’re actually already here, waiting. Miss Morgan is anxious to see Mr. Matson as well. See you in ten.”

Ali gaped at her phone in disbelief. Smacking Blake’s hand away from her crotch, she sat up. She shoved her phone back into its holder angrily. “Stop it,” she smacked his hand again.

“Damn, that hurt,” he whined, shaking his hand. “Kiss it better?”

“I would if Bryan and your girlfriend weren’t waiting at the hotel for us.” She wiggled out from under him, hating the cool air against her feverish body.

“Crap.” He pushed himself into a sitting position and watched her frantically tuck her shirt back in. “Ali…”

“Don’t,” she begged. “Please just don’t. I knew better and just couldn’t stop myself. I’ve been alone too damn long to say no.”

His face fell at the reality of her words. He knew she’d had a bad breakup awhile back and still he’d pushed. It’s what he got for listening to his guitarist. Tim insisted she was interested and maybe she was. But what right did that give him? And blaming Tim didn’t help either. “I’m sorry.”

“For what? Trying to take my mind off my pathetic life for a few minutes? Don’t be. I should be apologizing to you for leaving you hanging.”

Blake sighed, shifting positions. “I’m definitely not hanging.”

Ali choked on her laugh. “I’m sorry,” she laughed again. “I know it’s not funny but…”

He stood and pulled her against him. “You’re right, it’s not funny.” He pressed his hips against hers, allowing her to fully feel her effect on him. “And you’re gonna pay for this later. The very next time I get you alone.” He grinned evilly at her. “And I promise, you won’t regret it.”

She let him kiss her one last time before pushing him away. “I’ll hold you to that Cowboy. Now, help me find my gun.”

Ali got on her knees and started looking. Blake swallowed hard, holding a hand out to her. “Here, go get yourself together. I’ll look for it.”

She took his hand, letting him pull her to her feet. “You sure?”

He nodded. “Yeah. Besides, watching you crawl around on the floor is not going to get it found. It’s only gonna get us caught.”

She patted his chest, grinning, “Thanks.”

The door had barely closed behind her when the bus stopped beside the hotel. The front door to the bus opened and Bryan entered. A young, bleach blonde followed close on his heels.

Praying that her face wasn’t nearly as flushed as it felt, she saluted her superior and greeted him. “Hey Bryan.”

He nodded at her and looked around. “Where is Mr. Matson?”

Ali canted her head to the door behind her. “Changing his clothes, I believe.”

“Will you let him know we’re here and ready to go inside?”

Giving him a mental eye roll, she nodded. Knocking on Blake’s door, she called out, “Mr. Matson?” She could just see him rolling his eyes again. “Miss Morgan is here as well as my team leader.”

“Lieutenant!”

She turned quickly to see Bryan moving towards her. “Yes sir?” she questioned, not knowing what could be wrong. Nothing that he can see, I don’t think…

“Where is your firearm? It’s not in its holster.

“Oh, well, you see…” she stalled.

Behind her, the door opened and Blake emerged, grinning. He held her gun up and announced, “I found it! It slid under the bed somehow.” Ali covered her face with both hands before Bryan could glare at her. Looking at the faces surrounding him, Blake’s grin slid from his face. “What? What did I say?”

Holding one hand out and keeping the other across her eyes, she begged, “Hand it over, please? I’d rather shoot myself now rather than wait for the firing squad.”

Reluctantly, he handed it over. “Okay, if you’re sure, Cookie. Just try not to splatter your brains all over my bus. Okay? I just go it washed.”

A nervous laugh bubbled up from her toes. Before long, she couldn’t quit giggling. Even knowing she was extremely close to getting into some very serious trouble, she couldn’t stop. Holstering her weapon, she sat heavily on the couch behind her and let go.

“Allyson?” Bryan asked, half afraid.

“Yeah?” she gasped, looking up.

“Is there something you need to tell us?”

“No,” she began, wiping the tears from her eyes. “No, I don’t think there is.” And not that anyone here would believe me if I told them the truth anyway.

Bryan flicked his gaze to Blake who stood calmly watching. “Are you sure?”

Blake shrugged. “Losta girls have lost their guns in my room. Seems to be a black hole or somethin’ in there.” He shrugged again and pushed past Bryan and Leslie and exited the bus.

Leslie crossed her arms angrily, trying to decipher the reality of what had gone on. Deciding she ought to start with the source, she turned and stormed off the bus, searching for Blake, leaving Ali alone with Bryan.

Bryan cleared his throat. Ali’s giggles had started to subside finally. “So?”

“So what?”

“So, are you going to tell me how your gun wound up under his bed?”

“Do I have a choice?” she questioned rhetorically. “It slid off the dresser when the driver stopped at a red light.”

“And why was it on his dresser and not on your person?”

Ali shrugged, wondering how much trouble a little white lie could get her into. “He was curious what I was carrying. Seeing as he has quite the gun fetish, I gave it to him. He looked it over, and sat it down. The bus stopped, my gun went flying. He thought it more prudent for him to be the one crawling around on the floor of his bedroom looking for it rather than me.”

She sat quietly, as close to being at attention as she could get in her position. Bryan studied her, noticing she met his gaze evenly, not flinching or reacting in any guilty manner. He knew her well enough to know she wouldn’t sleep with just anyone, especially a man with a girlfriend, but he was still undecided on how she felt about this particular man. “All right. I’m not so sure I believe you but I don’t have any reason not to. Get out and get inside.”

Standing quickly, she saluted and hustled out of the bus. Winking at Blake as she jogged by, she silently gave thanks. Here’s to the government for teaching me how to be such a skilled liar.

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 2 Interlude 2

2008-08-20T09:14:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: This was added later on, after I'd finished the first draft of the story. I felt that Ali & Blake needed a bit more time to develop their relationship and this is still one of my favorite pieces I've written about them. Makes me laugh every time I read it. Blake is such a dork. Was originally titled Checking In. Maybe a bit of bad language and lots and lots of flirting. LOL

Ali watched Blake and then his band file onto their respective tour busses. After double-checking to make sure everyone was on board, she climbed in and headed towards the back of Blake’s bus, stopping long enough to grab her laptop from the storage compartment. Deciding on her seat, she sat, pulled out the laptop, set it on the pullout table, and plugged in her headset.

Satellites were apparently good for more than just outer space observations and TV. Amazingly enough, her laptop was designed to connect to the Internet via satellite, among other things. Keying in her security code, checking to make sure the web cam was turned on and functioning, she logged into HQ’s server and waited. Waited for someone to deign her important enough to answer.

While she waited, Blake had finally noticed she wasn’t beside him, in her usual spot. Leaving his seat, he came to the back of the bus and squished himself in beside her. “Whatcha doin’?” he asked, looking over her shoulder at the empty screen.

Of course, Caleb took that opportunity to acknowledge her. “Allyson!” he began cheerfully. Upon noticing Blake peering over her shoulder, he continued, “What’s he doing there?”

“Hey,” Blake announced, pointing at the screen, “that’s pretty cool.”

Ali rolled her eyes at the both of them. “Yeah, Blake, makes things easier to a degree,” she told him. “Especially regarding communications.” To Caleb, she said, “He was just being nosy, wanting to know what I was doing.”

Blake tucked his chin against her shoulder and watched Caleb on the screen. “Can he see me?”

“Uh, yeah.” She pointed to the miniscule web cam embedded in the top of her monitor. “That’s a camera there.”

“Is he an idiot?” Caleb asked.

“Nooo, he just can’t hear you, you dumb…”

“That’s quite enough you two!” boomed another familiar voice.

“Sorry, General Stone, sir. I’m getting bombarded from both sides here.” She looked from the screen to the vulture hanging over her shoulder, breathing down the front of her shirt. Clearing her throat, she continued. “Things are going well on this end. No reports of anything out of the ordinary.” Blake maneuvered his arm behind her back, settling it along her waist. His hand curved around her hip and rested lightly across the top of her thigh. His body pressed against the length of hers; his face snuggled up to her cheek. Ali covered the mouthpiece briefly and asked him, “Making yourself comfortable, Cowboy?”

“Excuse me?” Caleb asked, annoyed. “Something you’d like to share with us, Lieutenant?”

Praying she wasn’t bright red, she shook her head. “No, nothing sir.” She flicked her eyes back towards Blake, hoping he’d get the hint. When he didn’t, she decided to give in and revel in the feel of his body against hers, inhaling the woodsy sent of his skin, and enjoy it while it lasted. She leaned back into him and continued with her report. “Like I was saying, situation normal here. No sign of any kind of Brotherhood activity. I will remain on the lookout as,” she stifled squeak as he pressed himself closer to her, hand slipping between her thighs “always.”

“Are you okay, Lieutenant?”

“Yes, sir, General Stone. Bumpy roads out here in the sticks.” She elbowed Blake as inconspicuously as she could. “Our next stop is as scheduled. We left on time and appear to be making good progress so far. We’ll stop for lunch in about four hours or so, I believe.” Blake nodded against her shoulder in confirmation. “See?” she waved her hand at the growth on her back, “he agrees. Anything else?”

“Yes,” Caleb spat, “you do remember that you’re on a mission?”

“Me? Yeah, of course. Why do you ask?” Please God; don’t let him bust me in front of Blake. All I was doing was my job, I swear. You were watching, weren’t you?

“Gee, Ali, I can’t imagine why I’d be concerned.”

She could feel the sarcasm in the words. “Had you not taken so long to respond to my call, you’d know that he sat down here after I’d made the initial call.”

“I can vouch for that,” Shana piped up, grinning in the background. “I was watching.”

“So, why didn’t you answer the call then?” Stone demanded, turning to face her.

“Caleb restricted access. I can only answer calls when I’m the lead officer.”

“You will change that, immediately. Understand?” Caleb nodded. “Good, we’re too busy for this garbage.” He shook his head, wishing for a shot of whiskey right then. “Alright then, keep on top of things and don’t let yourself get… distracted, okay?”

Ali nodded and attempted a salute. ”Yes, sirs. Will do. Lt. Hart, over and out.” She had to hide a grin; as she terminated the connection, she could see Shana giving her a double thumbs-up.

“YOU,” she said, turning her head to face Blake, “are going to get me court-marshaled with stunts like that!”

“Sorry, Cookie, couldn’t help myself. With you sitting here I had to be as close to you as I could get,” he whispered in her ear. Squeezing her thigh, he added, “Besides, the view was way too good to pass up.” Pressing his lips against her neck in a quick, but promising kiss, he untangled himself from her body and moved back to his seat. “Are ya gonna join me, like usual?” He motioned towards where he’d been sitting.

“Yeah, I just need to do something first, okay?” Like change my panties.

He nodded and went back to his seat. “I’ll get the cards,” he called back over his shoulder, “you bring the booze.”

Opening up her e-mail client, she sent a desperate note to the only person who’d understand.

Shana:

HELP ME! I think I’m drowning…

Ali

Shana, still listening to Stone and Caleb arguing over the communications restrictions as well as over Ali’s predicament, grinned at the e-mail. Sending her reply, she went back to monitoring the bickering.

Ali looked down at the response with an open mouth.

Honey:

Why should I help you? Looks like you knew what you were doing to me!

(and not a protest in sight!)

Red

Oh gods, she was in trouble now…

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 2 Interlude 1

2008-08-20T09:00:00.001-07:00

Letter to Shana

From: crazyalirae

To: Scarlettfire

Subject: Cowboy

Hey Red,

WTF? How is this happening? I never thought in a million years I’d get the hots for a hick. But he is cute. Love those blue eyes. And that shit-eating grin of his. Whoooo…. <fans self> And I doubt we even need to get into how he looks in those painted-on jeans. Mmmm… Long legs that go on for miles…

Huh? What? Sorry. My bad. Drifted off there for a moment.

Yeah, yeah, yeah… I know what you’re thinking. And no, I do NOT have any plans on following through with my lust. No, really, I don’t. Geez, you’re starting to sound like Bryan. He had me in bed with him before I’d ever even MET him. Despite that’s where I’d like to be right now…

<huge sigh> So what now? It’s hard to jump in bed with a man when we’re always on this bus. Let’s not forget that the whole band is following us or with us at any given time. Oh joy oh joy. This has turned into a real adventure.

But I’ll behave. Or at least, I’ll try. Lemme know if you think I’ve gone off the deep end and then THROW ME A LINE!!

Ali

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 2

2008-08-20T08:56:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: This chapter was originally titled Losin' Leslie which was actually something ELSE the very first time, but I'm not going there. Nothing but a bit of silliness in this chapter. :)

“So you two aren’t actually touring together?”

Blake looked sheepish. “Um, nooo. She um, just…” he trailed off.

Ali bit back a smile. “Came for a visit?” she suggested.

“Uh, yeah. That’s about right.”

“Oh-kaaay,” Ali laughed. “If that’s your story than that’s what we’ll tell HQ. Until then, we’ve got to get someone on her tail as well, just in case.” She pulled her two-way radio off her belt and called Caleb.

~*~

“Right. Okay. Thanks for the intel.” Caleb placed his radio back on his hip.

“Looks like the little blonde was just flown in for some after-hours recreation. She’s left to the airport.”

Bryan raised an eyebrow. “So she’s not his girlfriend? I think you’d better get you-know-who away from him if that’s the case.”

Caleb observed his second-in-command for a moment, noting how bad he was at hiding his jealousy. “No, not quite. She is his girlfriend; she’s just not touring with him. As Ali put it, it was a ‘routine hook-up’ whatever that means.” Caleb looked at the steaming Bryan and restrained a laugh. “Better get your keys and head to the airport. We can’t have Ms. Morgan out on her own with a psychopath bent on ruling the world on the loose, can we?”

Bryan stated at his commander with a gaping mouth. “But what about…”

Caleb held up a hand. “We’ll assign someone else to that case. I’ll get your team out to you ASAP.”

~*~

“Ms. Morgan!” Bryan yelled, gasping. “Wait!”

Leslie turned to see who was calling her name. “Oh, it’s him.” Sighing, she slowed and allowed him to catch up. “What are you doing here?”

“HQ sent me to escort you to your next show,” he panted, desperately trying to catch his breath. “They figure that if Mr. Matson is a target then, as his girlfriend, you might be a target as well. I would have escorted you here had we known you would be leaving so soon.” And had I been assigned to you.

Leslie thought it over for a moment. “Okay then. You can carry my bags.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Bryan looked to the pile of carry-on luggage and cringed. “This is going to be a long assignment, I can tell already,” he mumbled quietly as he hefted her make-up bag onto his shoulder.

~*~

Settled in, bracing for the flight, Leslie resigned herself to her fate. I guess it could be worse. He’s at least somewhat attractive. It’s just… She looked at the career soldier sitting next to her and had a panicked thought. “Excuse me um…”

“Bryan. Call me Bryan.”

“Of course, Bryan. Um, that officer you left with Blake…”

“Allyson Hart. Yes, she’s one of our best.”

“Oh, that’s good. Um, what I was wondering was, is she married?”

“Married?” Bryan laughed. “No, not hardly.”

“Is she otherwise attached? Like with a man?”

Bryan thought sourly about the cowboy he left her with and bit the inside of his cheek. “No, no boyfriend either.”

“Girlfriend?” she asked desperately.

Laughing, he shook his head. “Nope, no girlfriend, although I wouldn’t put it past her.”

Shit! And she’d walked off and left her man with the woman. “Oh. Okay. So, you think Blake’ll be safe with her?”

“Absolutely. She’s a highly skilled soldier and very intelligent as well,” he reassured her. But, whether he’ll be safe from her is something else altogether, he thought bitterly.

“Hmm… as long as you’re sure then.”

“He’ll be fine, and so will you.”

“But she’s professional, right?”

“Usually.”

Leslie nodded and tried to settle down, knowing that she wouldn’t be able to relax until she and Blake were back together again and she was sure he wasn’t anywhere near that woman who seemed to completely catch her man’s attention in so short a time. But she trusted Blake, or at least, mostly. It was that soldier she didn’t trust. She hadn’t liked the way Blake had been so at ease with her. And so quickly.

In the meantime, she figured she could enjoy herself and maybe even have a little fun. Just so things stayed… even. “So, what about you? Boyfriend?”

Bryan gave her a horrified look and then he noticed the smile. Easing a bit, he smiled back. “No, no man in my life as we speak.”

The Break Up

2008-08-19T14:03:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: I wrote this as a pre-Blake Ali story. I had gotten a challenge from my writing group to 'write about what people would find in your trash' and ran with it, although I don't think I ever shared it with them. I think that I had finished the first of my Code Red stories at that point and although Ali made no bones about the fact she and Bryan were no longer an item, she never mentioned why. I thought that finding not just her boyfriend, but also her commanding officer digging around in her trash to be a good enough reason. Men, can't live with 'em and you just can't shoot 'em...

The Break-Up

(January 31, 2007)

“Bryan?” Allyson questioned, stepping inside her small apartment on base.

Looking up guiltily from the trash strewn across her kitchenette floor, he spluttered, “What are you doing here?”

“Um, I live here. Sometimes.” She came around to face him. “The question is what are you doing here? And why are you in my garbage?”

“You’ve been acting strangely lately,” he told her, standing and brushing his hands off. “I thought I’d investigate.”

“Investigate?” she asked, incredulously. “Looks to me like you’re snooping!”

“Look,” he said, attempting to placate her, “I’m you boyfriend, but I’m also your superior. It’s my job to make sure you’re at your best.”

“Boyfriend,” she laughed. “Not for long!”

“Now wait a minute! I’ve found some rather incriminating evidence that you’re going to have to explain!”

Ali rolled her eyes, forcing herself to calm down. He was in the wrong, after all. “Go for it, Bry. Make my day.”

He lifted up a movie ticket stub. “What’s this?”

“A movie ticket?” She rubbed her temples, feeling a headache coming on already.

“Who’d you go with?”

Closing her eyes and counting to ten, she responded calmly, “Alex.”

“Why’d you go to a movie with him?”

“Because he’s my friend and because Shana was on a date.”

“Hmm,” he murmured, setting the ticket stub aside. “And this?” He held up another piece of paper.

She leaned in closer and grinned. “Dinner receipt.”

“Fancy restaurant,” Bryan observed.

Her grin broadened. “Yeah, it was. Nice wine, yummy tiramisu.” She knew she was baiting him, but she didn’t care. If the jerk was going to sift through her garbage, he deserved it.

“Who did you go with?”

“Why don’t you look at the signature on the receipt? It’s not mine.”

“Hmm, “ he studied the signature very carefully. “Reid. Damnit Allyson! Why didn’t you just tell me you and Shana had dinner together?”

“One: it isn’t any of your business. Two: I figured that if you’d spent all this time digging through my trash, you’d have figured it out by now!” She was tired of playing games with him. God only knows what was in her trash, but she knew that something incriminating had to be in there.

“Why’d you two go to such a ritzy place?”

“I keep telling you that it isn’t any of your business, but you just won’t listen, will you? I had some good news that night and she treated me to a special dinner. Friends do that sort of thing, you know.”

“What good news?”

“She’d just told me she’d found a new boyfriend,” Shana commented from the entrance to the kitchen. “One that doesn’t dig in the trash.”

Ali flashed her redheaded roommate a ‘thank you’ look, then went back to Bryan. “Anything else? So far you haven’t proved a damn thing!”

“Explain this!” He triumphantly held up a limp piece of something.

“What the…?” As she studied the item in his hand, it became so much clearer. “Oh, that’s right. It’s a condom. Can’t imagine why you wouldn’t know what one of those were, Bryan.”

“Damn you!” he screamed, face turning red. “Why can’t you just answer the question?”

“Because you’re invading my privacy!” she yelled back. “And in case you’ve forgotten, I share this place with Shana. Did it ever once occur to you that any of those items might be hers?”

Apparently not, because he hung his head and wrung his hands. “You’re right. I never once thought that…” his voice trailed off as he remembered what he was holding. “Please tell me this is hers…”

Shana turned bright red and nodded. “Now, do you mind?”

He tossed the used latex into the garbage. “Sorry. Would you…”

“Sure.” Red gave her roommate a ‘call me’ gesture and walked out of the kitchen.

“Bryan, this has got to stop.”

“What?”

“This,” she waved at the kitchen.

“This is the first time I’ve gotten into your garbage,” he protested.

“Maybe so, but you follow me, you check the messages on my answering machine, you look to see who’s called my cell phone…” She paused as it all began to sink in. “You’re becoming obsessive and overbearing. Not to mention possessive and untrusting.”

“Please tell me you’re not seeing someone else?” he begged.

“I’m not. Yet.”

“Then… the dinner?”

“I’ve been promoted.”

“Really? That’s great! We should…”

She interrupted him. “Bryan, no. This isn’t going to work. Especially now.”

“What do you mean?”

“Were you even listening to me before? You are becoming the clingy possessive boyfriend. The kind of man I cannot trust. And now that I’m going to be gone more and have more responsibilities, it’s only going to get worse. No thank you.”

“So, that’s it? It’s over?”

“Yeah, it is.” Her voice softened suddenly. Resting a hand on his arm, she continued, “Grow up some. Learn to trust me. Then we’ll see what happens, okay?”

He nodded sullenly.

“Look, you’re still here and so am I. We don’t have to stop seeing each other completely… I just can’t have a relationship with you right now. It’s getting to be too hard. And this,” she motioned to the mess on her floor again, “was really the last straw.” She patted his arm and moved to leave the kitchen. “Now get… I’ve got a date.”

“But you said…”

“I’m just teasing. I’ve got a class tonight. Now scoot!”

“On one condition?”

“Shoot.”

“You’ll have dinner with me tomorrow?”

“As long as you promise no more spying!”

“You’ve got it!”

“Good, gimme a hug and then go. I’ve got to change.”

Bryan hugged her and held her close. Giving her a friendly kiss on the cheek, he left her apartment, wondering. “Will we ever be okay again?”

CR: TFM ~ Chapter 1 Interludes

2008-08-19T10:29:00.001-07:00

I added these in as I originally wrote the story for a way to get a better idea of what was going on in poor Ali's head. I'm not sure if they work or not, but they're kinda fun. :)

Note to Red

From: crazyalirae

To: Scarlettfire

Subject: YeeHAW

Hey Shana,

Just wanted to let you know that I think I’m a-gonna like my new assignment. He’s even cuter in person, if that’s possible, and has the goofiest personality. Caleb informed me that I shouldn’t be on this assignment very long, that it should be wrapped up in a few weeks, at the most. I sure hope not! <insert evil grin here> This could prove to be fun!

Just need to give his girlie the boot.

Hope you’re enjoying your deserted isle. See ya soon! Rumor is November – if I’m still on this assignment anyway.

Ali

CR:TFM ~ Chapter 1

2008-08-19T10:20:00.001-07:00

Mika's Note: I had originally called this 'Hat Hair' for obvious reasons. A little bad language, some covert flirting.

“Aw, crap!” He muttered, looking in the mirror. “Why me? Why do I end up with the frizzy hair? Huh?” Disgusted, he turned from the mirror and grabbed his hat. “One benefit to being a hick, they always expect you to be wearing a hat at least.”

“Quit your whining, Blake!” came a voice from the corner. “I swear, you’d think you were a woman!”

Blake spun around to face his current girlfriend lounging in the dressing room’s only chair. “For crying out loud, Leslie! I have to look good when I go out there,” he waved vaguely in the direction of the stage. “Or, at least, better than this.”

The petite blonde rolled her eyes and glared at him. “You look fine. Now stop it!”

He watched her for a moment; she sat in the chair, one leg slung over the chair arm, the other on the floor. It wasn’t her he was angry with, at least not completely. Her clingy, possessive attitude was beginning to get on his nerves, but it wasn’t what was on his mind right now. No, he had other things more pressing weighing on his mind. Things this twenty-something girl had no idea about.

“It’s time. If you’re gonna be backstage, you need to come with me now. If not, you’re stuck back here until the show is over.” He flung open the dressing room door and started the long walk to the stage.

Sighing, Leslie dragged herself out of the chair and followed behind him. She didn’t have a chance of catching up to his long stride and she didn’t bother to try. She’d get there when she got there.

Halfway to the stage, Blake was joined by his band. Grabbing his guitar from a nearby roadie, he stepped onto stage and into the lights.

~*~

“Ahh, good show, huh?” Blake asked, tossing his sweat-soaked hat onto the couch. Running his hands through his already disheveled hair, he looked at Leslie. “Sorry for snapping at you earlier. I’ve got a lot on my mind.”

She shrugged and pretended like it didn’t mean anything. “Its fine,” she lied. They both turned at the loud knock on the door.

Blake looked around frantically for a brush or something but the door opened before he had a chance. “Come in, I guess,” he muttered at the blonde head sticking in the dressing room doorway.

“Mr. Matson? I’m Caleb Lockhart. I was sent by your uh, management company. May we come in?”

Blake looked at the man for a moment, thinking, “Aren’t you already halfway in?” Biting his tongue, he said aloud, “Sure, of course. Excuse the mess I’m in.” He self-consciously rubbed his head full of hat-hair.

Behind the blonde came another male, darker, with a frown on his face and a black eye. Following him was a brunette with bright blue eyes and a body you wouldn’t expect on a soldier. Watching her made Blake even more self-conscious of his unruly mess of hair and sweaty body.

Caleb introduced each as they entered. “This is Commander Bryan Tracey,” he nodded to the dark-haired man with the black eye. “He’s second in command on this situation.” Bryan stuck his hand out and shook with Blake. “And this is our covert specialist, Lieutenant Allyson Hart.”

“Ali, please. No one but my father ever calls me Allyson.” She grinned and added, “Unless I’m in trouble, that is.”

Blake nodded at them both, just a bit speechless. Leslie sat in her place in the chair, staring bewilderedly at the scene before her. As if feeling her eyes boring into the back of his head, he came back into reality and introduced her to the party. “She’s my girlfriend and I would like to be sure she’s safe as well.”

“Absolutely, Mr. Matson,” Caleb comforted. “If she’s with you, it’s likely she’s in danger as well.”

~*~

“So you’re saying you’re being stalked?” Leslie almost screamed. “Why the HELL didn’t you tell me?” Her voice was rapidly approaching the hysterical point.

“Honey, please.”

“No! Oh, no, don’t even start!” she screeched. “You are so not getting out of this that easily!”

“Ms. Morgan, please calm down.” Ali began. “Men do strange things sometimes when it comes to the women in their lives. Things that often only make sense to them.” Inwardly, she rolled her eyes. How’d he put up with the little chit? Outwardly, she encompassed the two men beside her with a wave. “Ask me how I know.”

Leslie nodded absently, thinking. She looked at Blake who was still trying unsuccessfully to smooth his wayward mane. “Oh all right. I still don’t like that you didn’t tell me. I have a right to know these things.” She pouted momentarily, and then added, “Especially if I coulda gotten killed with you!”

“Yeah, you do. Sorry.” Blake looked around with a real deer-in-the-headlights look. “So, it’s settled, then?”

Caleb nodded. “Yeah. Lt. Hart has been assigned to keep you out of harm’s way. Do you have any questions?”

Blake shook his head, too confused to think much.

“I do,” Leslie piped up, her anger momentarily forgotten. “How’d he get a black eye?”

Everyone looked at Bryan. Bryan looked at Ali, who was conveniently studying the door hinges. Blake could have sworn there was a hint of a smile on her face.

“It’s a long story,” was all he said.

~*~

“So, you think you can handle watching this one?” Caleb asked Ali outside the dressing room.

“It’ll be a hardship, I’m sure, but I’ll manage somehow,” she replied, trying to hide the grin creeping onto her face. I could watch THAT body for a long, long time.

“I’m not sure I like this idea anymore,” Bryan whined. “Remind me again, why are we playing body guard to a bunch of hick singers?”

“Because intelligence says that his stalker is more than just a crazed fan trying to get attention.” Caleb turned to Ali. “I think you need to let them know what to expect, and find out their schedule so that we’re all on the same page.”

“Yes sir,” she replied, saluting.

“We’ll see you back at base. Be GOOD.”

“Would I ever be anything else?” she grinned.

“That’s what we’re afraid of,” Bryan groaned.

~*~

“Mr. Matson? May I come in?”

“Yup.”

“Thanks,” she came through the door and shut it tightly. “I’m the one you get stuck with, as you know. I’ll be traveling with you for a while, with my three partners. My commander will need to know your schedule so we can coordinate.”

“Okay. I’ll get my manager to get the info to him.”

“Thanks. Where’s Ms. Morgan?”

“In the bathroom and no more of this mister and missus stuff, it’s driving me crazy. I’m just a country boy who got a bit lucky. Not somethin’ special.” He was back to nervously smoothing his hapless curls.

Ali nodded in acknowledgement of his modesty. “Sure, as long as she doesn’t object.”

“She won’t. Lee thinks its weird being called ‘Ms’ and ‘Miss’ all the time. She still hasn’t gotten used to it yet, I think.”

Ali understood that all too well. Having been promoted at a young age, being called ‘sir’ by soldiers older than her took some getting used to. “You’re going to go bald if you don’t stop rubbing your head like that.”

He grimaced and pulled his hand away. “Sorry. My hair’s a mess. Couldn’t get to a brush or my hat before ya’ll came in.”

“Sorry. Caleb’s never quite learned how to wait for an answer. Just be lucky he was the one leading the parade. Bryan’s never learned how to knock.” She looked up into his blue eyes and thought how nice it’d be to get lost in them. Leaning in closer to him, she whispered, “Besides, I think you wear the ‘rumpled’ look rather well. It gives you this sexy, ‘I-just-got-out-of-bed-and-haven’t-been-sleeping’ look.” She grinned while he blushed bright red.

Ali thought she’d just embarrassed him; she was good at that, she’d had lots of practice. Blake knew better: he was wondering if she was as willing as he was at that instant to find out if it were true.

Mika's World

Musical Inspiration of the Day

I Think I Got It!

Ummm… What Next?

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 7

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Interlude

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 6A

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 6

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 5

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 4

The Girl and Her Ache

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 3

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 2

Code Red 2: Life Sentence ~ Chapter 1

Code Red 2: Life Sentence: Info

Sorry, Wrong Goddess

Friendship Quotes

So You Want to Be A Writer?

I Walk Alone

Dakotah: Interlude ~ Bring Me the Sunset in a Cup

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 4

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 3

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 2

Dakotah: Blood Oath: Chapter 1

The Trouble with Trees

Male Order

A Day in the Life

Dakotah: Interlude: A Vampire in Wal*Mart

Sierra: Part 2

Sierra: Part 1

About Sierra

Dakotah: Epilogue

Dakotah: Chapter 8

Dakotah: Chapter 7

Dakotah: Chapter 6

Dakotah: Chapter 5

Dakotah: Chapter 4

Dakotah: Chapter 3 (For Real This Time)

Dakotah: Chapter 2

Dakotah: Chapter 1

Dakotah: Prologue

About Dakotah

Romance Novels Summed Up in a Picture...

Quote of the Week

Mr. Midnight

Onwards and Upwards

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Epilogue

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 9

If only…

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 8 Interlude

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 8

Invisible

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 7 Interlude

Back to the drawing board, I guess…

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 7

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 6 Interlude

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 6

Quote of the Week

*Snicker*

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 5 B

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 5 Interlude

Code Red: The First Mission: Chapter 5

Complicated

A Journey of a Thousand Steps

The Weekend ~ Steve Wariner

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 4 Interlude

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 4

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 3 B

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 3 A

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 2 Interlude 2

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 2 Interlude 1

Code Red: The First Mission ~ Chapter 2

The Break Up

CR: TFM ~ Chapter 1 Interludes

CR:TFM ~ Chapter 1

Snicker