I was not going to do this. I told myself, "No writing stories until after Christmas." But this idea just keeps invading my thoughts, so I have to write it and get it out of there. Think of this one as your Sue Thomas F.B.Eye Advent Calendar of B/T fluff. Enjoy.
Let It Snow: A Daily Advent--ure"
Oh the weather outside is frightful
But the fire is so delightful
And since we've no place to go
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
It doesn't show signs of stopping
and I've bought some corn for popping
the lights are turned way down low
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
When we finally kiss goodnight
how I'll hate going out in the storm!
But if you'll really hold me tight
All the way home I'll be warm
The fire is slowly dying
And, my dear, we're still good bying
But as long as you love me so
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
The tinny broadcast of the popular carol was certainly appropriate for their own weather forecast. It didn’t show signs of stopping. Traffic was snarled, planes grounded and trains overcrowded as potential travelers were forced to put their holidays on hold. There was no doubt; they wouldn’t be getting through tonight. They’d have to make the best of it here and try again in the morning. Turning to his companion he smiled apologetically and said… “Sorry, luv, looks like you’re stuck with a bloke like me tonight.”
“I guess I can endure it if I have to.” Tara feigned a sigh, then giggled. She stood and walked over to the only window in the living room of Bobby’s apartment and pushed back the multicolored drape. “It seems like it’s letting up out there. It’s just snowing now, not blowing. I think I could make it home if I drive slow enough.”
“Like I’m going to let you do that,” Bobby mumbled.
Tara propped her hands defiantly on her hips and Bobby quickly added, “Besides if you go home, you can’t open the present I got you.”
“You got me a present? It’s not even December 1 yet.”
Bobby reached behind the couch and pulled out a flat, package wrapped in bright silver and topped with a sparkly crown of curling ribbon. “I wanted to give it to you tonight, but if you insist on going home…” He waved the package in front of her and Tara tried to snatch it from his hands. He stood up and easily held it above her head.
“Bobby Manning, give it to me this instant.”
Bobby looked down at the face of the woman he been dating since Jack and Sue got married five months ago and a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. “I’ll only give it to you in exchange for something.”
“Like what?”
Bobby licked his lips.
“A kiss?”
“No, luv, I’ll need something more – substantial – than that.” He winked at her and was rewarded with an elbow into his stomach.
“Ow,” he grunted, doubling over. Tara dove for the gift, but Bobby was faster. He grabbed her waist with his free hand, and in one swift move, deposited her onto the couch and pinned her beneath him. In a fit of giggles, Tara continued to make futile attempts to snag the package. Bobby taunted her by bringing it closer, then snatching it away.
Bobby bent his head to Tara’s ear. She could feel his hot breath against her cheek. “You ready to make a deal Agent Williams?”
“I’m listening,” she whispered.
“There’s only one thing I’ll take in exchange for this . . .” he said suggestively.
“Bobby ---“
“…your car keys.” He leaned back to watch her expression change from shock to a smile in seconds.
“Are you kidding?”
“Nope, give up the keys and you get to open the gift.” He waved the sparkly package in front of her making sure it seductively caught the glimmer of the fireplace. “Take it or leave it. That’s my final offer.”
Tara rolled her eyes. Deep down, she knew he’d never let her drive home anyway, and quite frankly, she really didn’t want to. Finally, she sighed, “Oh, all right. Now, would you please get off me and fork over the present?”
He swung his body away, stood up, and held out his hand. “Keys first.”
Tara snagged her purse sitting beside the couch and rummaged through the contents. Finally, she held out a key chain with more baubles and characters than keys. She held it in front of her. “On three.” Bobby nodded. “One – Two—Three.” She dropped the keys into his hand and passed her the gift. As Bobby pocketed the keys to Tara’s car, she destroyed the wrapping paper and pulled out the gift.
“It’s an advent calendar,” she stated, trying to sound enthused.
Bobby sat beside her and smiled. “Yep. Read the card attached to the back, luv.”
Immediately, Tara recognized Bobby’s scrawl on the card which read “To Tara, my luv.”
Luv,
When I was just an ankle biter, my mum bought one of these every year. We would open a window each day and within 24 hours, she’d surprise us with something related to the picture inside. As I got older, we each took turns surprising one another. It was one of my favorite things about Christmas, and I wanted to share this tradition with you.
Always yours,
Bobby
“Thank you. I feel so honored.” She kissed his cheek, the bubbled. “Oh, Bobby, this will be so much fun!” She glanced at her watch. “You know, it is after midnight, so technically it is December 1 now.”
Bobby laughed. “Okay, my impatient one, we can start.”
“You’re going first?”
“My apartment. I go first.”
She giggled. “By all means then.” She passed him the calendar. “Aren’t you going to open it?”
“Sure, as soon as you close your eyes. You don’t get to see the picture. You just have to guess what it is. So close those beautiful baby blues of yours.”
She complied. “Keep ‘em closed. No cheating,” he teased. Gingerly, he tore open the little door marked number 1. With a soft chuckle, he closed it securely and placed the calendar face down on the coffee table. “Okay, you can open your eyes now.”
Tara looked at him expectantly.
”Hey, I have 24 hours. What’s your hurry?”
“Bobby, this is going to kill me.”
He grinned broadly. “I know, and I’m going to love every minute of it,” he teased.
Tara scowled at him. “You’re not going to pout now, are you, luv? Oh all right. Give me fifteen minutes and I’ll put your inquisitive nature out of its misery.”
Full Version: Let It Snow - Oreolover - Option 2
RomanceFanFiction.net > The Highlights - A Place To Start > Seasonal/Holiday Challenges > 2005 Seasonal/Holiday Challenges > Christmas Challenge 2005 '<:)
December 1
Tara watched Bobby go into his bedroom and heard drawers open and close. He came out several minutes later wearing an F.B.I sweatshirt. He tossed her a blue, plaid flannel shirt. “Here, put this on.”
Tara thrust her arms into the sleeves and watched Bobby toss another log onto the fireplace. He returned and gathered her into his arms. “It looks good on you.” He reached into his pocket and produced a pair of sweatsocks. “You’ll need these, too. Stay here while I get a few more things.”
Tara pulled the socks on over her nylons and listened as Bobby seemed to be getting things together in the kitchen for something.
“No picnics, Manning!” she yelled.
“Just snow cones!” he shouted back.
He moved around the corner, set down a plastic grocery sack of items, and picked up her coat. “Ready?” Tara slipped her layered arms into the coat Bobby held for her, then wrapped her scarf tightly around her neck before donning her gloves. Bobby did likewise except he added a stocking cap. “You’re missing something,” he told her. Rummaging in the coat closet, he pulled out a second stocking cap for her and plopped it on her head. “Perfect.”
Snagging the sack of goodies with one hand and Tara’s hand with the other, he pulled her through the door, down the hall, and out into the crisp winter air. Their breath encircled their head like wreaths and Tara was reminded of the “Night Before Christmas” poem. The street lamps made the snow glitter. Bobby pulled her into the lawn beside the building.
“Luv, I’m going to need some help on this next part.”
“Help?”
“Yeah, making snowmen isn’t exactly an activity we do in the Outback.”
“Really?”
“It's about 75 there in December.”
“Oh. Well, aren’t you lucky you have a first rate snowmen maker at your disposal?” She bent and scooped up a handful of snow and packed it into a snowball.
“You are not going to throw that are me, are you?”
“No, we are going to roll it in the snow.”
Within an hour, they had successfully created a snowman, and at Tara’s insistence, a snow woman. “What have you got in that bag for eyes?”
“According to that Frosty song it should be coal, right? I’m afraid I was fresh out of that, but I did have four flourescent golf balls. What do you think?”
“Perfect.” He produced the balls, and two carrots for noses. For the mouth, he’d brought two bananas. Tara couldn’t help but laugh when he pulled one of his multicolored, floral ties from the bag and wrapped it around the snowman’s neck. She stood back and surveyed their handiwork.
“It looks good, but she looks cold.”
“She’s a snow woman. Of course she’s cold.”
Tara removed her own scarf and draped the creation. “There.”
With the warmth of the scarf now gone, Tara immediately started shivering. Bobby pulled her close and rubbed her arms. “Let’s get you inside where I can warm you up properly.”
Tomorrow, door #2.
Tara watched Bobby go into his bedroom and heard drawers open and close. He came out several minutes later wearing an F.B.I sweatshirt. He tossed her a blue, plaid flannel shirt. “Here, put this on.”
Tara thrust her arms into the sleeves and watched Bobby toss another log onto the fireplace. He returned and gathered her into his arms. “It looks good on you.” He reached into his pocket and produced a pair of sweatsocks. “You’ll need these, too. Stay here while I get a few more things.”
Tara pulled the socks on over her nylons and listened as Bobby seemed to be getting things together in the kitchen for something.
“No picnics, Manning!” she yelled.
“Just snow cones!” he shouted back.
He moved around the corner, set down a plastic grocery sack of items, and picked up her coat. “Ready?” Tara slipped her layered arms into the coat Bobby held for her, then wrapped her scarf tightly around her neck before donning her gloves. Bobby did likewise except he added a stocking cap. “You’re missing something,” he told her. Rummaging in the coat closet, he pulled out a second stocking cap for her and plopped it on her head. “Perfect.”
Snagging the sack of goodies with one hand and Tara’s hand with the other, he pulled her through the door, down the hall, and out into the crisp winter air. Their breath encircled their head like wreaths and Tara was reminded of the “Night Before Christmas” poem. The street lamps made the snow glitter. Bobby pulled her into the lawn beside the building.
“Luv, I’m going to need some help on this next part.”
“Help?”
“Yeah, making snowmen isn’t exactly an activity we do in the Outback.”
“Really?”
“It's about 75 there in December.”
“Oh. Well, aren’t you lucky you have a first rate snowmen maker at your disposal?” She bent and scooped up a handful of snow and packed it into a snowball.
“You are not going to throw that are me, are you?”
“No, we are going to roll it in the snow.”
Within an hour, they had successfully created a snowman, and at Tara’s insistence, a snow woman. “What have you got in that bag for eyes?”
“According to that Frosty song it should be coal, right? I’m afraid I was fresh out of that, but I did have four flourescent golf balls. What do you think?”
“Perfect.” He produced the balls, and two carrots for noses. For the mouth, he’d brought two bananas. Tara couldn’t help but laugh when he pulled one of his multicolored, floral ties from the bag and wrapped it around the snowman’s neck. She stood back and surveyed their handiwork.
“It looks good, but she looks cold.”
“She’s a snow woman. Of course she’s cold.”
Tara removed her own scarf and draped the creation. “There.”
With the warmth of the scarf now gone, Tara immediately started shivering. Bobby pulled her close and rubbed her arms. “Let’s get you inside where I can warm you up properly.”
Tomorrow, door #2.
come and put me out of my misery also 
yes, it's already tomorrow over here...can we get another post??
I loved the idea very much! keep going!
I loved the idea very much! keep going!
It's AMAZING story!!!!! 
Bobby is so attentive and tender and loving and
Can't wait for your next post!
Restie
Bobby is so attentive and tender and loving and
Can't wait for your next post! Restie
A Bobby and Tara story
This is cool!!!! And I mean that in the warmest way possible! 
This is going to be the battle of the fittest, of of the wisest as you wish, on who can think of the nicest surprises for the other.
Jack and Sue married? Are we gonna meet them too in this story?
This is going to be the battle of the fittest, of of the wisest as you wish, on who can think of the nicest surprises for the other.Jack and Sue married? Are we gonna meet them too in this story?
I love advent calendars. I have every one I ever owned and put them up all over the place every year. It makes it kind of long to open them each day 
Now I get an advent story -- life can't get better than this. I can't wait to see what each day brings. You're brilliant Oreolover -- and I'm so glad you don't have any willpower kav
Although you said you weren't sure about this one. I realllly like this one.
Great job on the first day.
Great job on the first day.
Thanks for the warm welcome to my let it snow story. (Pun intended.) Fair warning: some days will be serious, some funny, and some romantic. A little for everyone.
Note to anyone who can help: I forgot to put my name in the subject line after the title, but I don't know how to fix it.
Oops!
"Let it Snow: A Daily Advent -ure"
Dec. 2
“Remember, you can’t open the next door until after midnight, luv.”
“Do honestly think I’d cheat just because I’m excited to get my turn? Now, you get going. I’ll see you in the morning.” Tara leaned forward and met Bobby’s lips one last time.
As soon as the door was shut, locked, and bolted, Tara headed for the calendar. She picked it up and contemplated opening the tiny window. Glancing at the clock, she noted it was 11:30. “Well, it’s midnight somewhere.” She smiled at her own wit. Easily, door number two gave way to her prying nails.
Tara put on her cotton night shirt, removed her make up, and brushed her teeth. Then, she reached again for the flannel shirt of Bobby’s she’d worn. She wrapped herself in it and found herself getting lost in recalling the last twenty-four hours.
She had thoroughly enjoyed Bobby’s technique for “warming her up properly” after they had made their snow people. After things became “heated” between them, he’d pulled away, desire hooding his eyes. She found herself loving him even more for caring enough to restrain himself. Who was she kidding? To restrain both of them. Giving her a final kiss on the forehead, he rose and stuck a DVD of Tim Allen’s “The Santa Clause” in the machine. Opening advertisements and credits rolled while he made a bowl of microwave popcorn. He returned to the couch juggling the large bowl and two steaming cups of hot chocolate.
“Thought this was a safer way to warm you up, luv.” He passed her a cup and waited anxiously to see her reaction. “So, what do you think? It’s my secret recipe.”
Tara, who considered herself quite a cocoa connoisseur, had to admit to him that it was probably the best hot chocolate she’d ever tasted. “What’s your secret?”
Bobby laughed. “That’s for me to know and you to never find out.” She took another sip trying to discern the subtle differences. “Face it, luv, there are some things that even you can’t figure out.”
Snuggled together on the couch, the late hour claimed her and she fell asleep. Bobby carefully extracted himself, lifted her into his arms, and carried her into his bed. As if she was in the dream world between sleep and waking, Tara was only vaguely aware of Bobby removing the FBI sweatshirt and slipping in beside her.
The smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls awakened her. It took a few moments to figure out she was in Bobby’s bed. Immediately, she made a mental inventory of her attire. Relief flooded over her as she found each item in the correct place including the flannel shirt. She pulled the soft cloth to her nose and inhaled his masculine scent which clung the fabric.
“What are you doing?” he asked from the doorway.
Tara startled and felt her cheeks warm. He handed her the plate he carried containing the cinnamon rolls and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. “These should smell better than my shirt,” he said with a wink.
“You baked.”
“Yep. Me and the Pillsbury Dough Boy. You know, tear off the paper and whack the tube on the counter? It’s my specialty.”
“I thought hot chocolate was your specialty.”
“What can I say? I’m a man of many talents.”
Now, she pulled the shirt even more tightly around her and imagined Bobby’s arms that had held her only a few minutes ago. She hadn’t removed the shirt the rest of their snow bound day. By evening, the streets had been cleared, but Bobby still insisted on driving her home. When he went to leave, she’d offered him the shirt, but to her secret thrill he’d told her to keep it. “It’ll keep you warm,” he said, “until I can.”
”What exactly did he mean by that?” she wondered. The phone ringing jerked her from her thoughts. She grabbed it on the second ring. “Williams.”
“Hi, luv. So, what was behind the door?”
“You know I can’t tell you.” Quickly, she glanced at the clock. It read 11:50, and she knew she was busted.
“I knew you couldn’t wait,” he chuckled. “Get some sleep. Love you.”
Tara snuggled under her down comforter making plans for the morning hoping Bobby Manning wouldn’t know what hit him.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Tara couldn’t believe her luck when Jack announced that he, Myles, Bobby had some surveillance work to do for the rest of the day. As soon as they were gone, she asked Lucy and Sue if they’d like to take the rest of the day off and help her with a little project. Both ladies readily agreed.
An hour and a half later, the three of them tugged the heavy Christmas tree through the halls towards Bobby’s apartment.
“I think it’s stuck,” Lucy said, pushing a branch out of the way so Sue could see her.
“It can’t be!” Tara yelled.
“I told you they always look smaller at the lot than inside,” Lucy complained.
“Sue, will you go keep watch out the window for him?” Tara asked.
Sue went over to the window at the end of the hall and turned back to them. “No one yet except for a snow man and snow woman and a snow kangaroo.”
“Snow kangaroo? When did he do that?” Tara stepped back and surveyed the tree which wouldn’t budge. “I guess we could chop off some limbs on the right and put it in the corner.”
“Girl, the size of this tree will take up his whole apartment.”
“He’s here!” Sue shouted.
Panicked, Tara glanced around looking for a place to hide. With no place to go, she hurried to the top of the stairs to try to prevent him from going down the hall. Unfortunately, she forgot the sacks of ornaments, tinsel, and lights that she’d purchased. Instead of meeting him at the top of the stairs, with the unmistakable sound of crunching glass, she tripped and fell headlong into his arms.
“Tara!” he exclaimed righting her. “Are you okay?”
“I was just hurrying to meet you. Shall we go out for dinner?”
“Sure, just let me go change.” He eyed her critically when she attempted to prevent him from passing. “Luv, are you sure you didn’t hit you head? You seem to have a few kangaroos loose in the top paddock. ”
Using his long arm, he gently pushed her aside and stepped into the hallway. “By jingoes! It’s a Chrissie tree!” He spun towards Tara. “My surprise for the day?”
She nodded. “It’s stuck.”
“Oh, it’ll only take a little elbow grease to get it in the door.”
One saw and a lot of elbow grease later, the tree stood impressively in the living room covering nearly every inch of the area. Bobby pulled a fretting Tara into his arms. “It’s perfect. Now, if you’ll dismiss your elves, we can decorate it.”
Lucy picked up the sack, clanging the shards together. Bobby kissed Tara’s head. “Don’t worry, Luce. We’ll just get more. Thanks for your help ladies. You certainly made my place look – festive.”
“Looks more like a bloody forest,” Myles said from the doorway.
“Is Sue in here?” Jack asked, stepping around the trees expansive boughs.
“Over here, mate.”
Locating his lost bride, Jack wrapped her in his arms. “Thanks for leaving me the message. Ready for dinner?”
“Hey, I’ve got an idea. Why don’t we get a pizza and we can all decorate the tree?” Bobby suggested.
Myles chuckled. “Well, I think there’s plenty of tree to go around.”
Note to anyone who can help: I forgot to put my name in the subject line after the title, but I don't know how to fix it.
Oops! "Let it Snow: A Daily Advent -ure"
Dec. 2
“Remember, you can’t open the next door until after midnight, luv.”
“Do honestly think I’d cheat just because I’m excited to get my turn? Now, you get going. I’ll see you in the morning.” Tara leaned forward and met Bobby’s lips one last time.
As soon as the door was shut, locked, and bolted, Tara headed for the calendar. She picked it up and contemplated opening the tiny window. Glancing at the clock, she noted it was 11:30. “Well, it’s midnight somewhere.” She smiled at her own wit. Easily, door number two gave way to her prying nails.
Tara put on her cotton night shirt, removed her make up, and brushed her teeth. Then, she reached again for the flannel shirt of Bobby’s she’d worn. She wrapped herself in it and found herself getting lost in recalling the last twenty-four hours.
She had thoroughly enjoyed Bobby’s technique for “warming her up properly” after they had made their snow people. After things became “heated” between them, he’d pulled away, desire hooding his eyes. She found herself loving him even more for caring enough to restrain himself. Who was she kidding? To restrain both of them. Giving her a final kiss on the forehead, he rose and stuck a DVD of Tim Allen’s “The Santa Clause” in the machine. Opening advertisements and credits rolled while he made a bowl of microwave popcorn. He returned to the couch juggling the large bowl and two steaming cups of hot chocolate.
“Thought this was a safer way to warm you up, luv.” He passed her a cup and waited anxiously to see her reaction. “So, what do you think? It’s my secret recipe.”
Tara, who considered herself quite a cocoa connoisseur, had to admit to him that it was probably the best hot chocolate she’d ever tasted. “What’s your secret?”
Bobby laughed. “That’s for me to know and you to never find out.” She took another sip trying to discern the subtle differences. “Face it, luv, there are some things that even you can’t figure out.”
Snuggled together on the couch, the late hour claimed her and she fell asleep. Bobby carefully extracted himself, lifted her into his arms, and carried her into his bed. As if she was in the dream world between sleep and waking, Tara was only vaguely aware of Bobby removing the FBI sweatshirt and slipping in beside her.
The smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls awakened her. It took a few moments to figure out she was in Bobby’s bed. Immediately, she made a mental inventory of her attire. Relief flooded over her as she found each item in the correct place including the flannel shirt. She pulled the soft cloth to her nose and inhaled his masculine scent which clung the fabric.
“What are you doing?” he asked from the doorway.
Tara startled and felt her cheeks warm. He handed her the plate he carried containing the cinnamon rolls and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. “These should smell better than my shirt,” he said with a wink.
“You baked.”
“Yep. Me and the Pillsbury Dough Boy. You know, tear off the paper and whack the tube on the counter? It’s my specialty.”
“I thought hot chocolate was your specialty.”
“What can I say? I’m a man of many talents.”
Now, she pulled the shirt even more tightly around her and imagined Bobby’s arms that had held her only a few minutes ago. She hadn’t removed the shirt the rest of their snow bound day. By evening, the streets had been cleared, but Bobby still insisted on driving her home. When he went to leave, she’d offered him the shirt, but to her secret thrill he’d told her to keep it. “It’ll keep you warm,” he said, “until I can.”
”What exactly did he mean by that?” she wondered. The phone ringing jerked her from her thoughts. She grabbed it on the second ring. “Williams.”
“Hi, luv. So, what was behind the door?”
“You know I can’t tell you.” Quickly, she glanced at the clock. It read 11:50, and she knew she was busted.
“I knew you couldn’t wait,” he chuckled. “Get some sleep. Love you.”
Tara snuggled under her down comforter making plans for the morning hoping Bobby Manning wouldn’t know what hit him.
Tara couldn’t believe her luck when Jack announced that he, Myles, Bobby had some surveillance work to do for the rest of the day. As soon as they were gone, she asked Lucy and Sue if they’d like to take the rest of the day off and help her with a little project. Both ladies readily agreed.
An hour and a half later, the three of them tugged the heavy Christmas tree through the halls towards Bobby’s apartment.
“I think it’s stuck,” Lucy said, pushing a branch out of the way so Sue could see her.
“It can’t be!” Tara yelled.
“I told you they always look smaller at the lot than inside,” Lucy complained.
“Sue, will you go keep watch out the window for him?” Tara asked.
Sue went over to the window at the end of the hall and turned back to them. “No one yet except for a snow man and snow woman and a snow kangaroo.”
“Snow kangaroo? When did he do that?” Tara stepped back and surveyed the tree which wouldn’t budge. “I guess we could chop off some limbs on the right and put it in the corner.”
“Girl, the size of this tree will take up his whole apartment.”
“He’s here!” Sue shouted.
Panicked, Tara glanced around looking for a place to hide. With no place to go, she hurried to the top of the stairs to try to prevent him from going down the hall. Unfortunately, she forgot the sacks of ornaments, tinsel, and lights that she’d purchased. Instead of meeting him at the top of the stairs, with the unmistakable sound of crunching glass, she tripped and fell headlong into his arms.
“Tara!” he exclaimed righting her. “Are you okay?”
“I was just hurrying to meet you. Shall we go out for dinner?”
“Sure, just let me go change.” He eyed her critically when she attempted to prevent him from passing. “Luv, are you sure you didn’t hit you head? You seem to have a few kangaroos loose in the top paddock. ”
Using his long arm, he gently pushed her aside and stepped into the hallway. “By jingoes! It’s a Chrissie tree!” He spun towards Tara. “My surprise for the day?”
She nodded. “It’s stuck.”
“Oh, it’ll only take a little elbow grease to get it in the door.”
One saw and a lot of elbow grease later, the tree stood impressively in the living room covering nearly every inch of the area. Bobby pulled a fretting Tara into his arms. “It’s perfect. Now, if you’ll dismiss your elves, we can decorate it.”
Lucy picked up the sack, clanging the shards together. Bobby kissed Tara’s head. “Don’t worry, Luce. We’ll just get more. Thanks for your help ladies. You certainly made my place look – festive.”
“Looks more like a bloody forest,” Myles said from the doorway.
“Is Sue in here?” Jack asked, stepping around the trees expansive boughs.
“Over here, mate.”
Locating his lost bride, Jack wrapped her in his arms. “Thanks for leaving me the message. Ready for dinner?”
“Hey, I’ve got an idea. Why don’t we get a pizza and we can all decorate the tree?” Bobby suggested.
Myles chuckled. “Well, I think there’s plenty of tree to go around.”
What a great post, put a smile on my face, thanks hun
yep, certainly a festive post...well done!
Great idea with the advent calendar looking forward to reading more
This day's post will be in two parts because it's a longer one. The second part will follow shortly.
December 3 – Part 1
As soon as Bobby went back into his apartment after seeing Tara to her car, he reached for the advent calendar. Their impromptu tree decking party had been a lot of fun, and with tomorrow being Saturday, he hoped to do something which would take them out of town. Bobby peeled open the little door and immediately a smile crossed his face. He moved to his bedroom and opened his laptop. “Tara isn’t the only one who knows how to use the internet,” he told himself as he clicked away at the keyboard.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bobby picked Tara up around 4:00 the next day. He’d told her only to dress comfortably. “Now, are you going to tell me where we are going?” she asked as Bobby pulled onto I-270 North.
“You’ll see soon.” He flipped on the radio and Manheim Steamroller’s “Christmas is Here” filled the car. Minutes later, he maneuvered the car on I-70 West.
“Are we going to Cumberland?” she asked.
He flashed her a grin. “You know, sheila, I’m beginning to see why you became an agent.”
By the time he took the downtown exit, she knew they were headed to Canal Place and the Western Maryland Station. Parking the car, Bobby hurried around the side to open her door. “Your carriage awaits,” he said pointing to the rails.
“Bobby, are we taking the train?”
He held out his arm and Tara nestled her gloved hand in its crook. “Not just any train. The Western Maryland Railroad’s mystery train and tonight the mystery is ‘Scrooge…A Killer Christmas Carol’. They advertised it by saying ‘Tis the season for peace, love, happiness, and murder as Scrooge finally gets his!’ Don’t you just love it? Seemed like the perfect thing for two F.B.I. agents to do on their days off.”
“It’s perfect.”
“We’re still a little early. It doesn’t leave until 6:00. I thought maybe we could get a little tucker at the Queen City Creamery.”
“The ice cream place?”
“You know what they say, ‘Life’s short. Eat desert first.’”
Bobby ordered a caramel apple sundae and Tara a cherry kiss one which claimed to be as good as the real thing. “You know, luv, we’re going to have to test out that theory,” he whispered in her ear as they carried their treats to one of the old fashioned tables.
Tara glanced back at the counter and stared at the balding man standing there.
“Earth to Tara. What’s up?”
“Maybe I’m seeing things, but that man sure looks like Donald Glenwood.”
“As in the let’s-kill-anyone-who-gets-in-our-way-Glenwood from the F.B.I.’s most wanted list?” Tara nodded and Bobby casually turned in the man’s direction and let out an exasperated sigh. He’d seen this man’s photo every day for the last five years and the scar across his cheek made him unmistakable. “This could put a real damper on our train ride. You want to pretend we didn’t see him?”
“Bobby…….”
“Oh, all right. Why don’t you go call for a team and I’ll keep an eye on him? There’s a pay phone over by the door.”
Glenwood and his lady companion weaved their way through the tables and sat down at the table next to Bobby and Tara’s. As if he sensed someone watching him, Glenwood glanced up and caught Bobby’s eye. Bobby held up a spoonful of his sundae and nodded a casual, touristy greeting. “Good day, mate.”
The wanted man scowled, but seemed to relax by the time Tara returned. “They’re on their way,” she explained. “We’re supposed to meet them outside in fifteen minutes.”
Since Glenwood and his “date” only had cones, they finished quickly. Bobby noticed the bulge under the man’s coat when he stood. “He’s packing,” he whispered to Tara. “Come on.”
Without looking like they were hurrying, Bobby helped Tara put her coat on and the trailed out behind the dangerous couple. Glenwood headed to the train depot. They watched him hand the conductor their tickets and climb aboard. “What’s the drongo doing going on a murder mystery train?” He pulled Tara closer to him. Now facing him, she slipped her hands under his coat and felt the familiar holster tucked at his side. “You’re carrying and so am I. ”
“Still, there is no way we are going to chance taking him down without back up, and no way we can let him out of our sight.” He cupped her face in his large hand. “Guess we’ll get our train ride after all.”
Mounting the steps, Bobby and Tara located their seats only a few rows behind the other couple. Bobby would have like to be a little farther back, but at least they were close enough to not lose them. Tara suddenly remembered she had her a recently purchased Blackberry in her purse. It was to be a gift for her mother. Bobby smiled as she pulled it out and typed a message in to Sue. He leaned back and wrapped an arm around her shoulders.
“Let’s sit back and enjoy the show.”
Guffaws echoed throughout the railcar as the actors turned on old Scrooge. Tara laughed so hard tears trickled down her cheeks and her cheeks hurt. The blackberry in her hand buzzed bringing her back to the most wanted man and his companion also watching the play.
“Jack wants to know where the first stop is,” Tara whispered.
“We stop for dinner at the Frostburg Depot. We have an hour lay over there. The trip is about three and half hours long so that should put us there about…”
“Seven fifteen,” Tara quickly supplied, tapping in the information. “He said they’ll have things set up there.”
A woman with a tight French knot turned and gave them a warning look. Bobby flashed her his dimples. “Sorry, sheila.” When the lady turned back he whispered to Tara, “I just hope they can make it in time.”
December 3 – Part 1
As soon as Bobby went back into his apartment after seeing Tara to her car, he reached for the advent calendar. Their impromptu tree decking party had been a lot of fun, and with tomorrow being Saturday, he hoped to do something which would take them out of town. Bobby peeled open the little door and immediately a smile crossed his face. He moved to his bedroom and opened his laptop. “Tara isn’t the only one who knows how to use the internet,” he told himself as he clicked away at the keyboard.
Bobby picked Tara up around 4:00 the next day. He’d told her only to dress comfortably. “Now, are you going to tell me where we are going?” she asked as Bobby pulled onto I-270 North.
“You’ll see soon.” He flipped on the radio and Manheim Steamroller’s “Christmas is Here” filled the car. Minutes later, he maneuvered the car on I-70 West.
“Are we going to Cumberland?” she asked.
He flashed her a grin. “You know, sheila, I’m beginning to see why you became an agent.”
By the time he took the downtown exit, she knew they were headed to Canal Place and the Western Maryland Station. Parking the car, Bobby hurried around the side to open her door. “Your carriage awaits,” he said pointing to the rails.
“Bobby, are we taking the train?”
He held out his arm and Tara nestled her gloved hand in its crook. “Not just any train. The Western Maryland Railroad’s mystery train and tonight the mystery is ‘Scrooge…A Killer Christmas Carol’. They advertised it by saying ‘Tis the season for peace, love, happiness, and murder as Scrooge finally gets his!’ Don’t you just love it? Seemed like the perfect thing for two F.B.I. agents to do on their days off.”
“It’s perfect.”
“We’re still a little early. It doesn’t leave until 6:00. I thought maybe we could get a little tucker at the Queen City Creamery.”
“The ice cream place?”
“You know what they say, ‘Life’s short. Eat desert first.’”
Bobby ordered a caramel apple sundae and Tara a cherry kiss one which claimed to be as good as the real thing. “You know, luv, we’re going to have to test out that theory,” he whispered in her ear as they carried their treats to one of the old fashioned tables.
Tara glanced back at the counter and stared at the balding man standing there.
“Earth to Tara. What’s up?”
“Maybe I’m seeing things, but that man sure looks like Donald Glenwood.”
“As in the let’s-kill-anyone-who-gets-in-our-way-Glenwood from the F.B.I.’s most wanted list?” Tara nodded and Bobby casually turned in the man’s direction and let out an exasperated sigh. He’d seen this man’s photo every day for the last five years and the scar across his cheek made him unmistakable. “This could put a real damper on our train ride. You want to pretend we didn’t see him?”
“Bobby…….”
“Oh, all right. Why don’t you go call for a team and I’ll keep an eye on him? There’s a pay phone over by the door.”
Glenwood and his lady companion weaved their way through the tables and sat down at the table next to Bobby and Tara’s. As if he sensed someone watching him, Glenwood glanced up and caught Bobby’s eye. Bobby held up a spoonful of his sundae and nodded a casual, touristy greeting. “Good day, mate.”
The wanted man scowled, but seemed to relax by the time Tara returned. “They’re on their way,” she explained. “We’re supposed to meet them outside in fifteen minutes.”
Since Glenwood and his “date” only had cones, they finished quickly. Bobby noticed the bulge under the man’s coat when he stood. “He’s packing,” he whispered to Tara. “Come on.”
Without looking like they were hurrying, Bobby helped Tara put her coat on and the trailed out behind the dangerous couple. Glenwood headed to the train depot. They watched him hand the conductor their tickets and climb aboard. “What’s the drongo doing going on a murder mystery train?” He pulled Tara closer to him. Now facing him, she slipped her hands under his coat and felt the familiar holster tucked at his side. “You’re carrying and so am I. ”
“Still, there is no way we are going to chance taking him down without back up, and no way we can let him out of our sight.” He cupped her face in his large hand. “Guess we’ll get our train ride after all.”
Mounting the steps, Bobby and Tara located their seats only a few rows behind the other couple. Bobby would have like to be a little farther back, but at least they were close enough to not lose them. Tara suddenly remembered she had her a recently purchased Blackberry in her purse. It was to be a gift for her mother. Bobby smiled as she pulled it out and typed a message in to Sue. He leaned back and wrapped an arm around her shoulders.
“Let’s sit back and enjoy the show.”
Guffaws echoed throughout the railcar as the actors turned on old Scrooge. Tara laughed so hard tears trickled down her cheeks and her cheeks hurt. The blackberry in her hand buzzed bringing her back to the most wanted man and his companion also watching the play.
“Jack wants to know where the first stop is,” Tara whispered.
“We stop for dinner at the Frostburg Depot. We have an hour lay over there. The trip is about three and half hours long so that should put us there about…”
“Seven fifteen,” Tara quickly supplied, tapping in the information. “He said they’ll have things set up there.”
A woman with a tight French knot turned and gave them a warning look. Bobby flashed her his dimples. “Sorry, sheila.” When the lady turned back he whispered to Tara, “I just hope they can make it in time.”
A fantastic start to this story. I adore the advent calendar idea, it's brilliant. Also Bobby and Tara, just perfect.
I'm really looking forward to the next part of December the third because I'm a little worried!
Take care,
Sairs
I'm really looking forward to the next part of December the third because I'm a little worried!
Take care,
Sairs
I had three posts to catch up on...lucky thing we have weekends!!!
The snow kangaroo just cracked me up!!! I think I may have to try that at the front of my house if we ever get enough snow. there's barely been enough to make a mouse!
And guess what? she says bouncing excitedly. I always have a Christmas tree decorating party and we make Christmas crafts and decorate my tree. AND we make one for the animals too.
And you've inspired me to start going through all my Christmas stuff and did you know that over half of my advent calendars all have a ring has one of the pictures? :whistle:
Oh and finding the most-wanted guy and now on a murder mystery train with him is dead brilliant -- if a little nervewracking.
kav
The snow kangaroo just cracked me up!!! I think I may have to try that at the front of my house if we ever get enough snow. there's barely been enough to make a mouse!
And guess what?
she says bouncing excitedly. I always have a Christmas tree decorating party and we make Christmas crafts and decorate my tree. AND we make one for the animals too. And you've inspired me to start going through all my Christmas stuff and did you know that over half of my advent calendars all have a ring has one of the pictures? :whistle:
Oh and finding the most-wanted guy and now on a murder mystery train with him is dead brilliant -- if a little nervewracking.
kav
December 3 - Part 2
An hour later, Ebenezer Scrooge’s murderer, who turned out to be Mrs. Cratchit, was revealed as the train rounded the bend into the Frostburg Depot. With what seemed like an enormous sigh, the engine blasted steam and screeched to a stop. Tara and Bobby discretely followed behind the Glenwood duo into the upscale restaurant in the left half of the depot. The hostess, flirting shamelessly with Bobby, led them to choice table for two in the back of the restaurant giving them a clear view of Glenwood.
Tara placed the starched linen napkin in her lap before picking up her menu. “I didn’t see them outside. Maybe we need a plan B.”
Bobby looked at her over the top of his menu. “We have a plan B. It is to do absolutely nothing without back up.” When Tara didn’t respond, he pulled her menu down with his index finger. “Right, luv?”
“Whatever happened to the Take Chance Bobby who’d do anything to get his man? Is Jack rubbing off on you?”
Bobby smiled and captured her small hand in his. “He met someone he’s considering spending the rest of his life with and he’d like her to be there to do it with… which is exactly what might not happen if we try to take on Glenwood alone.”
Tara couldn’t keep the smile from erupting across her face at Bobby’s declaration. He’d been making little comments like that a lot lately. She wanted to hope he was thinking the same way she was, but did she dare? She bit her lip to hold back the question forming in her mind.
“Sir, madam, may I take your order.” Bobby and Tara had been so caught up in one another, they hadn’t seen the waiter approach. Tara almost choked out “Myles” in surprise.
They gave Myles their order, and he returned a few moments later with their drinks. As he set down a napkin under the glasses, Myles watched to see if Bobby noticed the message he’d printed on them. Almost imperceptibly, Bobby nodded.
“Can I get you anything else?”
“Not right now, mate.”
Myles turned and headed back toward the kitchen and Bobby pulled out the napkin. It explained that the rest of team was waiting outside. In order to empty the restaurant, they would tell Glenwood there was some problem with his tab. Bobby and Tara would have a similar problem, giving them all a reason to linger. When the problem was resolved, Tara and Bobby were follow Glenwood and his lady friend out at close range. Jack, D, and some additional agents they’d pulled in would be waiting just outside the door.
Glenwood kept glancing in Tara and Bobby’s direction. “Do you think he’s on to us?” Tara asked picking at her filet mignon.
“Maybe he senses something is up. You know you’re food is doing more dancing on that plate than we’ve done in months. Eat up. My mum’s going to think I’m not taking care of you.”
“Like when am I going to see your mum?”
“Soon.”
“As in?”
“Soon,” he smiled mischievously. “Now, eat your tucker.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Irate. That was the best way to describe Glenwood when Myles explained they were having trouble with their credit card processor. To appease the man, Myles pointed out that Bobby and Tara, too, were being held up. When the restaurant had emptied, Myles finally returned Glenwood’s credit card which bore the alias of John Greenwood. He then handed Bobby his credit card while Tara eased her gun from it’s ankle holster and slipped it into her coat pocket. Following the wanted man and his companion out, Bobby and Tara positioned themselves immediately behind them.
As soon as they reached the door, both agents drew their weapons and pressed the guns into the backs of the couple. “F.B.I.” Bobby hissed, “you’re under arrest Glenwood. Now, step through the door, one at a time.” Bobby took Glenwood first and immediately he was surrounded by federal agents.
Tara watched through the window of the restaurant. “Now, it’s our turn,” she told the redhead. The woman took a step, then suddenly stopped and elbowed Tara sharply in the ribs. Tara doubled over and the woman shoved Tara forcefully into the wall before racing back inside. Tara painfully righted herself and chased after her. Glenwood’s companion was almost to the next doorway. Tara knew she’d never get to her in time. “Halt! F.B.I.!” she yelled. When the redhead didn’t stop, Tara fired a warning shot directly into the air thankful for the high ceiling. “The next one will be in your back!”
Glenwood’s lady friend skidded to a stop. Tara heard other agents join her, but didn’t take her eyes off the woman. “Drop your purse!” she ordered. “Push it away!” Slowly the woman complied. “Now, on your knees! Hand behind your head!” When the woman was circled by agents, Tara clicked on the gun’s safety, tucked it in her belt, and pulled cuff links from her pocket. She approached redhead and applied the restraints.
“Gotta love a woman who carries cuffs with her at all times,” she heard Bobby say from behind her. She turned and smiled at him. “Good job, Agent Williams.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“We’ll take it from here, Crash,” Jack told Bobby. “Go finish your date.”
“Thanks, mate.” The train whistled and the wheels slowly began to move. Bobby grabbed Tara’s hand and they made dash to make the departure. Bobby leapt onto the caboose’s steps and pulled Tara up beside him. With steam billowing around them, they waved to their friends from the platform.
“You folks will be wanting to come inside now,” the conductor stated, holding open the door for them. Bobby and Tara stepped through only to be greeted by the applause of those on board who’d watched the whole event unfold.
After nodding thanks and answering a few questions, they made their way to their seats. Nestled in Bobby’s arms, Tara let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding.
“You alright, luv?” Bobby asked. “She tossed you pretty good.”
“Sore, but fine,” she admitted.
“I’m sorry. This night hasn’t exactly been what I had planned.”
“Kind of like my Christmas tree?” They laughed. She looked out the window at the snow glistening in the moonlight. “But truthfully, this is just perfect.”
She turned towards Bobby and he cupped her face in his hand. Slowly, his lips touched hers and the world around them dissolved. His fingers tangled in her hair and the kiss deepened. “I love you,” he whispered into her hair breathlessly. He leaned back and traced her lips with his finger. “I love you.”
Several minutes later, they separated but their hands remained entwined. They settled into their seats and together watched the scenes roll by – Woodcock Hollow, Brush Tunnel, Helmstetter’s Curve, and the Bridge in the Narrows. For the moment, like those who'd watched the drama unfold earlier, they could be life’s spectators and not the players.
An hour later, Ebenezer Scrooge’s murderer, who turned out to be Mrs. Cratchit, was revealed as the train rounded the bend into the Frostburg Depot. With what seemed like an enormous sigh, the engine blasted steam and screeched to a stop. Tara and Bobby discretely followed behind the Glenwood duo into the upscale restaurant in the left half of the depot. The hostess, flirting shamelessly with Bobby, led them to choice table for two in the back of the restaurant giving them a clear view of Glenwood.
Tara placed the starched linen napkin in her lap before picking up her menu. “I didn’t see them outside. Maybe we need a plan B.”
Bobby looked at her over the top of his menu. “We have a plan B. It is to do absolutely nothing without back up.” When Tara didn’t respond, he pulled her menu down with his index finger. “Right, luv?”
“Whatever happened to the Take Chance Bobby who’d do anything to get his man? Is Jack rubbing off on you?”
Bobby smiled and captured her small hand in his. “He met someone he’s considering spending the rest of his life with and he’d like her to be there to do it with… which is exactly what might not happen if we try to take on Glenwood alone.”
Tara couldn’t keep the smile from erupting across her face at Bobby’s declaration. He’d been making little comments like that a lot lately. She wanted to hope he was thinking the same way she was, but did she dare? She bit her lip to hold back the question forming in her mind.
“Sir, madam, may I take your order.” Bobby and Tara had been so caught up in one another, they hadn’t seen the waiter approach. Tara almost choked out “Myles” in surprise.
They gave Myles their order, and he returned a few moments later with their drinks. As he set down a napkin under the glasses, Myles watched to see if Bobby noticed the message he’d printed on them. Almost imperceptibly, Bobby nodded.
“Can I get you anything else?”
“Not right now, mate.”
Myles turned and headed back toward the kitchen and Bobby pulled out the napkin. It explained that the rest of team was waiting outside. In order to empty the restaurant, they would tell Glenwood there was some problem with his tab. Bobby and Tara would have a similar problem, giving them all a reason to linger. When the problem was resolved, Tara and Bobby were follow Glenwood and his lady friend out at close range. Jack, D, and some additional agents they’d pulled in would be waiting just outside the door.
Glenwood kept glancing in Tara and Bobby’s direction. “Do you think he’s on to us?” Tara asked picking at her filet mignon.
“Maybe he senses something is up. You know you’re food is doing more dancing on that plate than we’ve done in months. Eat up. My mum’s going to think I’m not taking care of you.”
“Like when am I going to see your mum?”
“Soon.”
“As in?”
“Soon,” he smiled mischievously. “Now, eat your tucker.”
Irate. That was the best way to describe Glenwood when Myles explained they were having trouble with their credit card processor. To appease the man, Myles pointed out that Bobby and Tara, too, were being held up. When the restaurant had emptied, Myles finally returned Glenwood’s credit card which bore the alias of John Greenwood. He then handed Bobby his credit card while Tara eased her gun from it’s ankle holster and slipped it into her coat pocket. Following the wanted man and his companion out, Bobby and Tara positioned themselves immediately behind them.
As soon as they reached the door, both agents drew their weapons and pressed the guns into the backs of the couple. “F.B.I.” Bobby hissed, “you’re under arrest Glenwood. Now, step through the door, one at a time.” Bobby took Glenwood first and immediately he was surrounded by federal agents.
Tara watched through the window of the restaurant. “Now, it’s our turn,” she told the redhead. The woman took a step, then suddenly stopped and elbowed Tara sharply in the ribs. Tara doubled over and the woman shoved Tara forcefully into the wall before racing back inside. Tara painfully righted herself and chased after her. Glenwood’s companion was almost to the next doorway. Tara knew she’d never get to her in time. “Halt! F.B.I.!” she yelled. When the redhead didn’t stop, Tara fired a warning shot directly into the air thankful for the high ceiling. “The next one will be in your back!”
Glenwood’s lady friend skidded to a stop. Tara heard other agents join her, but didn’t take her eyes off the woman. “Drop your purse!” she ordered. “Push it away!” Slowly the woman complied. “Now, on your knees! Hand behind your head!” When the woman was circled by agents, Tara clicked on the gun’s safety, tucked it in her belt, and pulled cuff links from her pocket. She approached redhead and applied the restraints.
“Gotta love a woman who carries cuffs with her at all times,” she heard Bobby say from behind her. She turned and smiled at him. “Good job, Agent Williams.”
“We’ll take it from here, Crash,” Jack told Bobby. “Go finish your date.”
“Thanks, mate.” The train whistled and the wheels slowly began to move. Bobby grabbed Tara’s hand and they made dash to make the departure. Bobby leapt onto the caboose’s steps and pulled Tara up beside him. With steam billowing around them, they waved to their friends from the platform.
“You folks will be wanting to come inside now,” the conductor stated, holding open the door for them. Bobby and Tara stepped through only to be greeted by the applause of those on board who’d watched the whole event unfold.
After nodding thanks and answering a few questions, they made their way to their seats. Nestled in Bobby’s arms, Tara let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding.
“You alright, luv?” Bobby asked. “She tossed you pretty good.”
“Sore, but fine,” she admitted.
“I’m sorry. This night hasn’t exactly been what I had planned.”
“Kind of like my Christmas tree?” They laughed. She looked out the window at the snow glistening in the moonlight. “But truthfully, this is just perfect.”
She turned towards Bobby and he cupped her face in his hand. Slowly, his lips touched hers and the world around them dissolved. His fingers tangled in her hair and the kiss deepened. “I love you,” he whispered into her hair breathlessly. He leaned back and traced her lips with his finger. “I love you.”
Several minutes later, they separated but their hands remained entwined. They settled into their seats and together watched the scenes roll by – Woodcock Hollow, Brush Tunnel, Helmstetter’s Curve, and the Bridge in the Narrows. For the moment, like those who'd watched the drama unfold earlier, they could be life’s spectators and not the players.
Oh, I wanted you all to know that the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is indeed a working railroad and that is a production they are doing on their mystery train this year. When I was doing my research, found it and I just couldn't resist using it.
http://www.wmsr.com/]Western Maryland Scenic Railroad[/URL]
http://www.wmsr.com/]Western Maryland Scenic Railroad[/URL]
That was brilliant...did I mention I think you are brilliant? and in case you're wondering brilliant is my new favourite word! I loved how you described everything...building up the tension and Tara saving the day like that. and this:
QUOTE
For the moment, like those who'd watched the drama unfold earlier, they could be life’s spectators and not the players.
pure poetry...and it sounds divine.kav
December 4
If he didn’t hurry, Bobby would be late picking Tara up for church services.
Church? Six months ago Sunday mornings were for sleeping in. Bobby wondered what had happened to him, but quickly answered his own question – Tara. First, Tara started attending church with Lucy, Sue, and Jack. She told Bobby on one of their first dates that she’d been missing something in her life and now, with Sue’s help, she was finding out it was God.
Bobby was intrigued, so when she asked him to come with her the next Sunday, he said yes. What he really wanted was to just be with her. But a funny thing happened. He started finding answers to questions he didn’t even realize he’d been asking. Bobby knew his work made him always see the darker side of life, but he started to find a reason to make a difference in the world. He’d discovered hope.
Tara met him coming out of her building. “Morning.” She kissed him on the cheek and finished securing her earring. “I thought I’d better meet you down here, so we won’t be late.”
Bobby slipped his hands around her waist. “You know, the other day I heard the minister say that Jesus never told his disciples to hurry. I don’t think He’d mind if we took time for a proper good morning.” Without giving her time to argue, he kissed her soundly. Tara tingled from head to toe. “Now, that luv, gives us a reason to go say thanks.”
```````````````````````
After services, the five of them went for lunch together. They each ordered burgers with various toppings ranging from sprouts to jalapeños. “So,” Lucy asked, “how’s the advent calendar dating going?”
“Advent calendar dating?” Jack asked.
Bobby fidgeted under everyone’s gaze. “That wasn’t exactly what I meant when I gave it to Tara.”
“Relax, Bobby,” Tara said patting his arm. “And Lucy, it’s been a blast, but the mystery of what’s going to happen next is almost driving me nuts.”
“And what exactly is that going to be, luv?”
“You know, we got home so late last night, and then I was hurrying to get ready that I forgot to look.”
Bobby cocked an eyebrow. “Like I’m going to believe that.”
“I guess you’ll never know.”
Sue giggled. “Well, I, for one, think it all very romantic and exciting. I just want to know why you never let Jack know about this tradition. Bobby, you of all people, know how much he could use help in the romantic expressions department.”
“Sparky seemed to do just fine. He got you after all.”
Lucy piped in, “The key word being ‘after all.’ Three years of ‘after all.’”
“So I was a little slow,” Jack defended. “What matters is now.” He kissed Sue on the cheek, and she beamed.
“You two look so incredibly happy,” Tara told them. “But if Jack needs some romantic ideas, I have to admit Bobby is the perfect resource.”
“Thanks but no thanks,” Jack said. “On my dates, I’d rather not bust the F.B.I.’s most wanted.”
“Hey, that was Tara’s fault. That steal trap mind of hers that never forgets anything.” He draped his arm around her shoulders. “But it certainly made for an unforgettable evening.”
`````````````````````````
With lunch concluded, Bobby and Tara went back to her apartment. Bobby yawned all the way there, so Tara suggested he take a nap while she went to get a few things.
She arrived an hour later bearing sacks from the grocery store. Efficiently, she laid everything they would need out. Tiptoeing, she found Bobby still asleep on her bed, his gun resting on the nightstand beside him. Quietly, she moved the sidearm out of his reach, and with a sudden leap, she bounced next to him. Instinctively, he grabbed her arms, flipped her over, and pinned her down, all practically before he’d opened his eyes.
“Tara! What on earth were you doing?”
“Waking you up?” she said from beneath him. “Probably not the best way to wake up one’s fellow agent, huh?”
“Well, since you’re already, here, maybe we should just enjoy this position.” He lowered his head to kiss her, but Tara had other plans. Using a move that would make her Quantico instructors proud, she flipped Bobby on his back and jumped up.
“No time for that, Mr. Manning. We have cookies to bake.”
Bobby moaned. “Cookies. You realize that the hot chocolate, microwave popcorn and whack-a-can cinnamon rolls make up my total culinary repertoire.”
She grabbed his hand. “Come on. I’ll teach you everything you want to know.”
“And probably a lot I don’t.”
In the kitchen, she draped Bobby in “Kiss the Cook” apron. Tara donned one sporting Rudolph and a set of whimsical elves. Bobby looked down at his and read the text. “This had better be a promise, luv.”
“Well, that depends on how well you do.”
“Great,” he mumbled. Glancing around the room, he noted a huge array of baking supplies, cookie cutters, decorations, and tins. “How many cookies are we going to make?”
“Lots.” She pulled out a bowl and dropped two sticks of butter into it.
He stood behind her and slipped his hands around her waist. “And why would we do that?”
She added a cup of sugar. “We’re making Christmas gifts for our informants.”
Bobby stepped back. “Our snitches?”
“Yes, our ‘snitches’. Don’t you do something for yours every Christmas?”
“For my snitches?”
“Have you lost the ability to form a declarative sentence? You seem to only be speaking in questions.” She turned on the red Kitchen Aid mixer effectively drowning out any further questions.
Bobby flipped off the switch. “Let me get this straight. We are making cookies to deliver to our informants.”
“Correct.”
“Unbelievable.”
“And Sue wants us to take some to Howie, too.”
“Howie Fines?”
“You’re doing it again. Here you can start by cutting these. They looked like something you could master.” She handed him a roll of slice and bake refridgerated sugar cookies with a Christmas tree design in the center. “Just read the directions and put them on that cookie sheet. The oven is already preheated.”
Several minutes later, she turned to see him staring at the cookies. “What’s wrong?”
“How do you think they get the design inside the dough?”
She laughed. “I have no idea.”
While Bobby’s cookies were baking, he watched Tara roll out gingerbread cookie dough. It was a pleasure to watch her work. When she enjoyed doing something, her whole face showed it. She worked the dough like a piece of art. “Can you hand me the cookie cutters?”
“Sure.” He passed her the gingerbread man and woman, and watched her cut out several.
“My turn,“ he declared. She moved to the right and let him join her. He pushed the cutter into the dough and pulled up a hunk of dough.
“No, like this.” Taking his hand in hers, she gently placed it on the dough, pushed down and wiggled the cookie cutter loose. “Now, you’ve got it.”
Tara slipped the cookie sheet into the oven and turned to ask Bobby what he’d like to do while they baked. Before the words came out, he tossed a handful of flour at her. She retaliated with sugar and soon the room was a cloud of dust. Laughing uncontrollably, she managed to get to the faucet, grab the spray nozzle and aim it a Bobby who stood ready to launch another handful of flour.
“Drop it now, Manning, and no one become paste.”
Laughter erupted again. Bobby surveyed the room. “Well, I think we’ve done enough damage here already.” He set his bag of flour on the table and Tara set the spray nozzle back in place. He met her at the sink and lifted her onto the counter. “Now, about my apron.” Brushing flour off her nose, he reached behind her head and pulled her close, licking her lips. “Mmmmmmmmm, you taste good.”
The oven timer sounded. Bobby groaned. “Stay there. I’ll get them.” He returned after removing the pan. “Now, where were we?”
In time, breathless, they reluctantly separated. “Are you ready to put faces on the gingerbread family?” she asked.
“Whatever you say, boss.” He lifted her down.
Tara handed Bobby a tube of white frosting and took one for herself. “I know you’ve seen gingerbread men before, so just make them look like people.”
Bobby watched Tara engross herself in dabbing dots on the folks and adding a few silver dagerees buttons. He picked up a gingerbread woman and grinned mischievously. “Well, she said to make them look like people,” he told himself and set to work.
“Bobby Manning! Gingerbread women are NOT anatomically correct. Take those off right now.”
“Whatever you say.” He picked up the cookie and seductively licked off the two mounds of frosting. “Mmmmmmmmm….delicious.”
Tara blushed. “What am I going to do with you?”
Bobby had a few ideas, but he’d keep those to himself – for now.
If he didn’t hurry, Bobby would be late picking Tara up for church services.
Church? Six months ago Sunday mornings were for sleeping in. Bobby wondered what had happened to him, but quickly answered his own question – Tara. First, Tara started attending church with Lucy, Sue, and Jack. She told Bobby on one of their first dates that she’d been missing something in her life and now, with Sue’s help, she was finding out it was God.
Bobby was intrigued, so when she asked him to come with her the next Sunday, he said yes. What he really wanted was to just be with her. But a funny thing happened. He started finding answers to questions he didn’t even realize he’d been asking. Bobby knew his work made him always see the darker side of life, but he started to find a reason to make a difference in the world. He’d discovered hope.
Tara met him coming out of her building. “Morning.” She kissed him on the cheek and finished securing her earring. “I thought I’d better meet you down here, so we won’t be late.”
Bobby slipped his hands around her waist. “You know, the other day I heard the minister say that Jesus never told his disciples to hurry. I don’t think He’d mind if we took time for a proper good morning.” Without giving her time to argue, he kissed her soundly. Tara tingled from head to toe. “Now, that luv, gives us a reason to go say thanks.”
After services, the five of them went for lunch together. They each ordered burgers with various toppings ranging from sprouts to jalapeños. “So,” Lucy asked, “how’s the advent calendar dating going?”
“Advent calendar dating?” Jack asked.
Bobby fidgeted under everyone’s gaze. “That wasn’t exactly what I meant when I gave it to Tara.”
“Relax, Bobby,” Tara said patting his arm. “And Lucy, it’s been a blast, but the mystery of what’s going to happen next is almost driving me nuts.”
“And what exactly is that going to be, luv?”
“You know, we got home so late last night, and then I was hurrying to get ready that I forgot to look.”
Bobby cocked an eyebrow. “Like I’m going to believe that.”
“I guess you’ll never know.”
Sue giggled. “Well, I, for one, think it all very romantic and exciting. I just want to know why you never let Jack know about this tradition. Bobby, you of all people, know how much he could use help in the romantic expressions department.”
“Sparky seemed to do just fine. He got you after all.”
Lucy piped in, “The key word being ‘after all.’ Three years of ‘after all.’”
“So I was a little slow,” Jack defended. “What matters is now.” He kissed Sue on the cheek, and she beamed.
“You two look so incredibly happy,” Tara told them. “But if Jack needs some romantic ideas, I have to admit Bobby is the perfect resource.”
“Thanks but no thanks,” Jack said. “On my dates, I’d rather not bust the F.B.I.’s most wanted.”
“Hey, that was Tara’s fault. That steal trap mind of hers that never forgets anything.” He draped his arm around her shoulders. “But it certainly made for an unforgettable evening.”
With lunch concluded, Bobby and Tara went back to her apartment. Bobby yawned all the way there, so Tara suggested he take a nap while she went to get a few things.
She arrived an hour later bearing sacks from the grocery store. Efficiently, she laid everything they would need out. Tiptoeing, she found Bobby still asleep on her bed, his gun resting on the nightstand beside him. Quietly, she moved the sidearm out of his reach, and with a sudden leap, she bounced next to him. Instinctively, he grabbed her arms, flipped her over, and pinned her down, all practically before he’d opened his eyes.
“Tara! What on earth were you doing?”
“Waking you up?” she said from beneath him. “Probably not the best way to wake up one’s fellow agent, huh?”
“Well, since you’re already, here, maybe we should just enjoy this position.” He lowered his head to kiss her, but Tara had other plans. Using a move that would make her Quantico instructors proud, she flipped Bobby on his back and jumped up.
“No time for that, Mr. Manning. We have cookies to bake.”
Bobby moaned. “Cookies. You realize that the hot chocolate, microwave popcorn and whack-a-can cinnamon rolls make up my total culinary repertoire.”
She grabbed his hand. “Come on. I’ll teach you everything you want to know.”
“And probably a lot I don’t.”
In the kitchen, she draped Bobby in “Kiss the Cook” apron. Tara donned one sporting Rudolph and a set of whimsical elves. Bobby looked down at his and read the text. “This had better be a promise, luv.”
“Well, that depends on how well you do.”
“Great,” he mumbled. Glancing around the room, he noted a huge array of baking supplies, cookie cutters, decorations, and tins. “How many cookies are we going to make?”
“Lots.” She pulled out a bowl and dropped two sticks of butter into it.
He stood behind her and slipped his hands around her waist. “And why would we do that?”
She added a cup of sugar. “We’re making Christmas gifts for our informants.”
Bobby stepped back. “Our snitches?”
“Yes, our ‘snitches’. Don’t you do something for yours every Christmas?”
“For my snitches?”
“Have you lost the ability to form a declarative sentence? You seem to only be speaking in questions.” She turned on the red Kitchen Aid mixer effectively drowning out any further questions.
Bobby flipped off the switch. “Let me get this straight. We are making cookies to deliver to our informants.”
“Correct.”
“Unbelievable.”
“And Sue wants us to take some to Howie, too.”
“Howie Fines?”
“You’re doing it again. Here you can start by cutting these. They looked like something you could master.” She handed him a roll of slice and bake refridgerated sugar cookies with a Christmas tree design in the center. “Just read the directions and put them on that cookie sheet. The oven is already preheated.”
Several minutes later, she turned to see him staring at the cookies. “What’s wrong?”
“How do you think they get the design inside the dough?”
She laughed. “I have no idea.”
While Bobby’s cookies were baking, he watched Tara roll out gingerbread cookie dough. It was a pleasure to watch her work. When she enjoyed doing something, her whole face showed it. She worked the dough like a piece of art. “Can you hand me the cookie cutters?”
“Sure.” He passed her the gingerbread man and woman, and watched her cut out several.
“My turn,“ he declared. She moved to the right and let him join her. He pushed the cutter into the dough and pulled up a hunk of dough.
“No, like this.” Taking his hand in hers, she gently placed it on the dough, pushed down and wiggled the cookie cutter loose. “Now, you’ve got it.”
Tara slipped the cookie sheet into the oven and turned to ask Bobby what he’d like to do while they baked. Before the words came out, he tossed a handful of flour at her. She retaliated with sugar and soon the room was a cloud of dust. Laughing uncontrollably, she managed to get to the faucet, grab the spray nozzle and aim it a Bobby who stood ready to launch another handful of flour.
“Drop it now, Manning, and no one become paste.”
Laughter erupted again. Bobby surveyed the room. “Well, I think we’ve done enough damage here already.” He set his bag of flour on the table and Tara set the spray nozzle back in place. He met her at the sink and lifted her onto the counter. “Now, about my apron.” Brushing flour off her nose, he reached behind her head and pulled her close, licking her lips. “Mmmmmmmmm, you taste good.”
The oven timer sounded. Bobby groaned. “Stay there. I’ll get them.” He returned after removing the pan. “Now, where were we?”
In time, breathless, they reluctantly separated. “Are you ready to put faces on the gingerbread family?” she asked.
“Whatever you say, boss.” He lifted her down.
Tara handed Bobby a tube of white frosting and took one for herself. “I know you’ve seen gingerbread men before, so just make them look like people.”
Bobby watched Tara engross herself in dabbing dots on the folks and adding a few silver dagerees buttons. He picked up a gingerbread woman and grinned mischievously. “Well, she said to make them look like people,” he told himself and set to work.
“Bobby Manning! Gingerbread women are NOT anatomically correct. Take those off right now.”
“Whatever you say.” He picked up the cookie and seductively licked off the two mounds of frosting. “Mmmmmmmmm….delicious.”
Tara blushed. “What am I going to do with you?”
Bobby had a few ideas, but he’d keep those to himself – for now.
I love it. I could actually see that happeneing
A nice afternoon of baking cookies
This is Brillant, loving it......
I'm really enjoying this story, I loved the way Tara saved the day on the train. Also the baking session was fantastic.
Keep up the truly excellent work,
Sairs
Keep up the truly excellent work,
Sairs
QUOTE
“Bobby Manning! Gingerbread women are NOT anatomically correct. Take those off right now.”
Somehow, I knew Bobby will pull a trick like that....
Very clever and I love the humor...it really shines through in your writing.
Jen
Jen
I'm not usually a B/T fan, but you're making them fun and I'm enjoying it!! Keep up the great work, Oreo!
December 5
“What do you mean, you loaned her out?” Bobby questioned D, unable to contain his irritation.
D. patiently replied, ”The cyber crimes guys were trying to break something big, and they begged for her help.”
“Cyber crimes is the unit headed by that irritating bloke Brett Taylor. His head is so big it doesn’t fit through the door. He actually admitted he needed my girl’s help?”
D. shifted his stance. “Well, not exactly Taylor. It was some of the other guys. Taylor wasn’t quite as pleased to have her assistance, but he’ll see how invaluable she is. They should be finished up in a day or two.”
“Did you know about this, mate?” he asked Jack.
Myles leaned forward on his elbows and steepled his fingers. “Take it easy there, Koala Boy. Tara has handled the likes of you for years now, I’m sure she’ll deal with Taylor just fine.”
The door opened and in walked Sue and Lucy. “Where’s Tara?” Sue asked glancing around.
“Helping out Taylor’s cyber crimes unit,” Jack explained.
“Ooooooooo, Bobby, you’d better watch out. Taylor is one fine looking piece of eye candy,” Lucy teased.
``````````````````
Just before noon, Bobby called down to Tara. “Hi, luv. Ready for lunch?”
“I’m sorry, I can’t make it. Brett sent Jim out for sandwiches so we could work through lunch. He’s really wants this finished up today.”
“I have to admit I like the idea of having you back here tomorrow, but you sound tired. Are you sure you don’t’ need a break?”
“I’ve just got a headache. As long as I’m only seeing double, I’ll survive,” she laughed, half seriously.
“Williams! What do you think you’re doing on the phone?” Taylor yelled.
Bobby heard Taylor, too, and his dislike for the man quadrupled. “Bobby, I’ve got to go. Sorry. Love you.”
Slamming the phone down a bit more forcefully than he intended, Bobby looked up to the startled faces of his team members. “Sorry,” he mumbled, picking up a stack of papers and pretending to get back to work.
Jack walked over to Bobby’s desk. “Hey, got any lunch plans?”
Bobby shook his head. “No, Taylor saw to that.”
“Are they having a working lunch down there?”
“Something like that. He’s really pushing her, and he was yelling at her because I called. What a drongo.”
Jack fought his own protective nature. His impulse was to go down and explain that “his” team member would now be returning to “his” team. However, he knew that Bobby didn’t need that kind of encouragement. “Come on. Sue’s going out to lunch with Lucy, and then they’re doing some Christmas shopping. Let’s grab Myles and head over to Charlie’s.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“What’s on the love calendar today?” Myles asked, taking a bite of his salad.
“So now it’s a love calendar? You guys are pathetic.”
“Hey, Crash, we inferior romantics need some help. What was behind door number 4? It’s your turn, right?”
“Yep. Yesterday, we made cookies together.” Bobby smiled at the memory.
“You made cookies?”
“Sure, with Tara help of course, and Tara made us deliver tins of them to our snitches.” Myles and Bobby erupted in laughter and Bobby joined them.
“Only a man in love would do that,” Myles admitted. “You were telling us what was behind door 4.”
“It’s a stocking.”
“What are you going to do with that?” Jack asked.
“Sparky, I have no idea.”
Jack looked thoughtful for a moment and then smiled. “Well, this is your lucky day. I just came up with an idea, and I’ll share it with you as long as you give me the credit.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tara labored at her keyboard trying endlessly to unravel the banking scandal. Every time she felt like she was getting closer, she’s hit another wall. Leaning back, she rubbed her neck. Her headache hadn’t eased despite the Tylenol she’d liberally taken. Every joint on her body ached. Even her stomach threatened to rebel. “Oh great,” she told herself, “I’m getting sick.”
Taylor approached and sat on the corner of her borrowed desk. “Taking an unscheduled break, are we Williams?”
“I think I’m going to have to call it day early, Brett. I’m think I’m coming down with something.”
“It’s Mr. Taylor to you, and maybe Jack Hudson caters to the women on his team that way, letting them leave every time the moon is in a different phase, but I don’t. Unless you’re unconscious, I expect you to keep going.”
“You have got to be kidding.”
“No, I’m not.” He punctuated his order by cocking his head in a dare to challenge him, and then strutted away from her desk.
“That pompous, bombastic, conceited, egotistical, self-centered, vainglorious ….” she paused trying to think of more things to mutter. Finally, with a smile, she added Bobby’s favorite, “…bloke.”
```````````````````````````
“What are you still doing here?” D. questioned Bobby as he entered the bull pen.
“I could ask you the same thing, mate.”
“Donna and the kids are at her sister’s, so I thought I’d take the opportunity to catch up on some paper work. You?”
Bobby sighed. “I’m waiting for Tara.”
D. pulled up a chair in front of Bobby’s desk. “They’re still working?”
“I called her about an hour ago, and Taylor wants them to finish the case tonight. Something about needing this one. Unfortunately, Tara sounds awful. I think she might be coming down with something.”
“Didn’t she tell Taylor?”
Bobby huffed and shook his head. “He said that ‘unless she’s unconscious’ she needs to keep working.”
“Why didn’t you say something to me earlier?”
“She made me promise not to stir up an trouble.”
D. stood up and adjusted the tie he’d loosened. “Well, she didn’t make me promise. Come on. Let’s go get your girlfriend.”
``````````````````````
Normal quitting time passed and still they continued to work. Tara prayed they would wind this up soon before she had to make a mad dash to the bathroom. Chilled, she stood and put on her coat. “This is ridiculous. I’m outta here,” she told Tom Riley stationed next to her.
Taylor was on her immediately. “Williams, where do you think you’re going?”
“Home,” she stated matter-of-factly. Gathering her things, she headed for the door.
Taylor stepped in front of her. “I didn’t call it a day, yet. You’re part of this team now. If you know what’s good for you, you’ll be a good little agent and get back to work.”
D and Bobby rounded the corner in time to hear Taylor’s veiled threat. D. placed a restraining hand on Bobby’s arm and thundered, “Is there a problem here, Agent Williams?”
“No, Mister Taylor and I were just disagreeing about quitting times.”
Immediately, Bobby noticed that Tara looked pale and flushed. He hurried to her side, brushed her cheek with the back of his hand, and scowled. “You’re burning up,” he said, pulling her closer. With the adrenaline of the fight ebbing, Tara leaned into him. His anger was barely in check, he gritted out, “I ought to…”
“Bobby, just take her home. I’ll deal with this,” D. ordered.
`````````````````
“Feeling better?” Bobby asked as Tara emerged from her bedroom. He patted the couch next to him and Tara eased into the empty space.
“Yeah, it’s amazing what an hour of sleep can do.” She snuggled closer, leaning her head on his shoulder.
Bobby chuckled. “More like three hours. We got here after 7:00 and now it’s past 10:00.” He placed a hand on her forehead and smiled. “Your fever’s down. How’s the headache?”
“Hmm, let me put this in Manning terms. It’s like someone detonated a truckload of plastique in my head.”
“Just a truck load?”
She nodded. “I’m sorry I messed up our advent calendar,” she lamented with a shiver.
“Are you cold?”
“Just me feet.”
He smiled, flashing her his dimples. “I can take care of that.” He pulled a gift bag from the side of the couch and handed it to her. “You haven’t messed up our calendar one bit.”
Sitting up straight, Tara plucked the gold tissue from the gift bag. She reached in and pulled out a pair of Christmas socks with a happy reindeer printed on them. She pressed under the light and the reindeer's nose blinked and a “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer” began to play. “I love it!” she giggled.
“There’s more in the bag.”
She dug deeper and pulled out pair after pair. Some had bells, others played more jingles, and others had toes. A few were more sedate and simply displayed Christmas finery like gingerbread men. “There have to be 20 pairs here. When did you do all this?”
“There’s 21. One for each day left until Christmas. I bought them during lunch. Actually, it was Jack’s idea. He got Sue some, too. See, you didn’t ruin our calendar at all.”
As Tara slipped her foot in the reindeer pair socks, Bobby told her, “D. called. Taylor is receiving an official letter of reprimand in his files, and he’s sending him to sensitivity training. His big push was to look good for a promotion he was up for.”
“That sounds fair.”
“I just wanted to deck the drongo. You worried me, today.”
Tara turned in on the couch to face him. “About today. I could have. I should have just left. He played the woman card, and I fell for trying to prove myself all over again. I was just so close to figuring out the fraud. I wanted to show Taylor I could do it.”
Bobby picked up her hand and kissed it. “I understand. You don’t need to apologize to me.”
She pulled her hand back. “But I do. I made you worry, unnecessarily, because of my pride.”
He kissed her cheek. “Thank goodness I’m not the only one who isn’t perfect.”
Note:
If you want to check out the assortment of Christmas socks I was referring to, here’s the link.
Absolutities
“What do you mean, you loaned her out?” Bobby questioned D, unable to contain his irritation.
D. patiently replied, ”The cyber crimes guys were trying to break something big, and they begged for her help.”
“Cyber crimes is the unit headed by that irritating bloke Brett Taylor. His head is so big it doesn’t fit through the door. He actually admitted he needed my girl’s help?”
D. shifted his stance. “Well, not exactly Taylor. It was some of the other guys. Taylor wasn’t quite as pleased to have her assistance, but he’ll see how invaluable she is. They should be finished up in a day or two.”
“Did you know about this, mate?” he asked Jack.
Myles leaned forward on his elbows and steepled his fingers. “Take it easy there, Koala Boy. Tara has handled the likes of you for years now, I’m sure she’ll deal with Taylor just fine.”
The door opened and in walked Sue and Lucy. “Where’s Tara?” Sue asked glancing around.
“Helping out Taylor’s cyber crimes unit,” Jack explained.
“Ooooooooo, Bobby, you’d better watch out. Taylor is one fine looking piece of eye candy,” Lucy teased.
Just before noon, Bobby called down to Tara. “Hi, luv. Ready for lunch?”
“I’m sorry, I can’t make it. Brett sent Jim out for sandwiches so we could work through lunch. He’s really wants this finished up today.”
“I have to admit I like the idea of having you back here tomorrow, but you sound tired. Are you sure you don’t’ need a break?”
“I’ve just got a headache. As long as I’m only seeing double, I’ll survive,” she laughed, half seriously.
“Williams! What do you think you’re doing on the phone?” Taylor yelled.
Bobby heard Taylor, too, and his dislike for the man quadrupled. “Bobby, I’ve got to go. Sorry. Love you.”
Slamming the phone down a bit more forcefully than he intended, Bobby looked up to the startled faces of his team members. “Sorry,” he mumbled, picking up a stack of papers and pretending to get back to work.
Jack walked over to Bobby’s desk. “Hey, got any lunch plans?”
Bobby shook his head. “No, Taylor saw to that.”
“Are they having a working lunch down there?”
“Something like that. He’s really pushing her, and he was yelling at her because I called. What a drongo.”
Jack fought his own protective nature. His impulse was to go down and explain that “his” team member would now be returning to “his” team. However, he knew that Bobby didn’t need that kind of encouragement. “Come on. Sue’s going out to lunch with Lucy, and then they’re doing some Christmas shopping. Let’s grab Myles and head over to Charlie’s.”
“What’s on the love calendar today?” Myles asked, taking a bite of his salad.
“So now it’s a love calendar? You guys are pathetic.”
“Hey, Crash, we inferior romantics need some help. What was behind door number 4? It’s your turn, right?”
“Yep. Yesterday, we made cookies together.” Bobby smiled at the memory.
“You made cookies?”
“Sure, with Tara help of course, and Tara made us deliver tins of them to our snitches.” Myles and Bobby erupted in laughter and Bobby joined them.
“Only a man in love would do that,” Myles admitted. “You were telling us what was behind door 4.”
“It’s a stocking.”
“What are you going to do with that?” Jack asked.
“Sparky, I have no idea.”
Jack looked thoughtful for a moment and then smiled. “Well, this is your lucky day. I just came up with an idea, and I’ll share it with you as long as you give me the credit.”
Tara labored at her keyboard trying endlessly to unravel the banking scandal. Every time she felt like she was getting closer, she’s hit another wall. Leaning back, she rubbed her neck. Her headache hadn’t eased despite the Tylenol she’d liberally taken. Every joint on her body ached. Even her stomach threatened to rebel. “Oh great,” she told herself, “I’m getting sick.”
Taylor approached and sat on the corner of her borrowed desk. “Taking an unscheduled break, are we Williams?”
“I think I’m going to have to call it day early, Brett. I’m think I’m coming down with something.”
“It’s Mr. Taylor to you, and maybe Jack Hudson caters to the women on his team that way, letting them leave every time the moon is in a different phase, but I don’t. Unless you’re unconscious, I expect you to keep going.”
“You have got to be kidding.”
“No, I’m not.” He punctuated his order by cocking his head in a dare to challenge him, and then strutted away from her desk.
“That pompous, bombastic, conceited, egotistical, self-centered, vainglorious ….” she paused trying to think of more things to mutter. Finally, with a smile, she added Bobby’s favorite, “…bloke.”
“What are you still doing here?” D. questioned Bobby as he entered the bull pen.
“I could ask you the same thing, mate.”
“Donna and the kids are at her sister’s, so I thought I’d take the opportunity to catch up on some paper work. You?”
Bobby sighed. “I’m waiting for Tara.”
D. pulled up a chair in front of Bobby’s desk. “They’re still working?”
“I called her about an hour ago, and Taylor wants them to finish the case tonight. Something about needing this one. Unfortunately, Tara sounds awful. I think she might be coming down with something.”
“Didn’t she tell Taylor?”
Bobby huffed and shook his head. “He said that ‘unless she’s unconscious’ she needs to keep working.”
“Why didn’t you say something to me earlier?”
“She made me promise not to stir up an trouble.”
D. stood up and adjusted the tie he’d loosened. “Well, she didn’t make me promise. Come on. Let’s go get your girlfriend.”
Normal quitting time passed and still they continued to work. Tara prayed they would wind this up soon before she had to make a mad dash to the bathroom. Chilled, she stood and put on her coat. “This is ridiculous. I’m outta here,” she told Tom Riley stationed next to her.
Taylor was on her immediately. “Williams, where do you think you’re going?”
“Home,” she stated matter-of-factly. Gathering her things, she headed for the door.
Taylor stepped in front of her. “I didn’t call it a day, yet. You’re part of this team now. If you know what’s good for you, you’ll be a good little agent and get back to work.”
D and Bobby rounded the corner in time to hear Taylor’s veiled threat. D. placed a restraining hand on Bobby’s arm and thundered, “Is there a problem here, Agent Williams?”
“No, Mister Taylor and I were just disagreeing about quitting times.”
Immediately, Bobby noticed that Tara looked pale and flushed. He hurried to her side, brushed her cheek with the back of his hand, and scowled. “You’re burning up,” he said, pulling her closer. With the adrenaline of the fight ebbing, Tara leaned into him. His anger was barely in check, he gritted out, “I ought to…”
“Bobby, just take her home. I’ll deal with this,” D. ordered.
“Feeling better?” Bobby asked as Tara emerged from her bedroom. He patted the couch next to him and Tara eased into the empty space.
“Yeah, it’s amazing what an hour of sleep can do.” She snuggled closer, leaning her head on his shoulder.
Bobby chuckled. “More like three hours. We got here after 7:00 and now it’s past 10:00.” He placed a hand on her forehead and smiled. “Your fever’s down. How’s the headache?”
“Hmm, let me put this in Manning terms. It’s like someone detonated a truckload of plastique in my head.”
“Just a truck load?”
She nodded. “I’m sorry I messed up our advent calendar,” she lamented with a shiver.
“Are you cold?”
“Just me feet.”
He smiled, flashing her his dimples. “I can take care of that.” He pulled a gift bag from the side of the couch and handed it to her. “You haven’t messed up our calendar one bit.”
Sitting up straight, Tara plucked the gold tissue from the gift bag. She reached in and pulled out a pair of Christmas socks with a happy reindeer printed on them. She pressed under the light and the reindeer's nose blinked and a “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer” began to play. “I love it!” she giggled.
“There’s more in the bag.”
She dug deeper and pulled out pair after pair. Some had bells, others played more jingles, and others had toes. A few were more sedate and simply displayed Christmas finery like gingerbread men. “There have to be 20 pairs here. When did you do all this?”
“There’s 21. One for each day left until Christmas. I bought them during lunch. Actually, it was Jack’s idea. He got Sue some, too. See, you didn’t ruin our calendar at all.”
As Tara slipped her foot in the reindeer pair socks, Bobby told her, “D. called. Taylor is receiving an official letter of reprimand in his files, and he’s sending him to sensitivity training. His big push was to look good for a promotion he was up for.”
“That sounds fair.”
“I just wanted to deck the drongo. You worried me, today.”
Tara turned in on the couch to face him. “About today. I could have. I should have just left. He played the woman card, and I fell for trying to prove myself all over again. I was just so close to figuring out the fraud. I wanted to show Taylor I could do it.”
Bobby picked up her hand and kissed it. “I understand. You don’t need to apologize to me.”
She pulled her hand back. “But I do. I made you worry, unnecessarily, because of my pride.”
He kissed her cheek. “Thank goodness I’m not the only one who isn’t perfect.”
Note:
If you want to check out the assortment of Christmas socks I was referring to, here’s the link.
Absolutities
Is there anything better than fun socks to snuggle your toes into at the end of a long day?
Oreo, you're doing great! I really detest people like Taylor. It's one thing to expect excellence from those who work for you, but another thing entirely to treat them the way he treated Tara. I half wish Bobby could have decked him. But D had the right answer.
Way to go!!
Oreo, you're doing great! I really detest people like Taylor. It's one thing to expect excellence from those who work for you, but another thing entirely to treat them the way he treated Tara. I half wish Bobby could have decked him. But D had the right answer.
Way to go!!
Oh my goodness how did so many posts slip by? I read this at work...college library -- tense students studying for finals and hit the anatomically (sp?) correct gingerbread people and completely lost it! I laughed til I cried and I'm still hicupping. 
Everyone is looking at me like I'm strange...do you think I'm strange? And JP3 who waits to get home to put on their Christmas socks? Doesn't everyone else wear there's to work too? Along with their reindeer antlers? Helloooo people, it's Christmas. Oh and Taylor -- bah!!!! -- moon phase my auntie!!! 
Love how D dealt with it. And Oreo, I just love this to pieces and am enjoying my advent calendars much more now. Who knew there was such a story behind each little picture?kav
I wouldn't mind a pair or two 
Great story Oreolover ... cannot wait for the next day. Bobby is so thoughtful!
Great story Oreolover ... cannot wait for the next day. Bobby is so thoughtful!
I can't wait to see what Day 6 will be in the advent calender.
Great job, oreolover!
Great job, oreolover!
That Taylor is such a je***!!
Oreolover, I'm loving every second! well done!
Oreolover, I'm loving every second! well done!
December 6- Part 1
Prying her eyes open at 9:00 a.m., Tara sat up and stretched. Only a few aches remained from the day before, and she was hungry. She padded out to the kitchen in search of something edible.
“Oh, you’re awake,” Bobby said from the couch making Tara jump.
“What are you doing here?”
He walked over and enveloped her in a hug. He’d obviously showered, changed, and smelled deliciously clean. “Good morning to you, too, luv. Are you hungry?”
Tara nodded. “Starved.”
“Have a seat and I’ll get you some breakfast before I leave.” Tara sat down at the table and watched Bobby pop a piece of whole wheat bread in her toaster. He placed a glass of juice in front of her.
“Don’t get me wrong here, but Bobby, why are you here so early?”
“More like still. I just couldn’t leave you, so I slept on your couch.”
“So I wasn’t dreaming about you.”
He handed her a plate with the buttered toast and raised his eyebrows. “Well, that depends on what I was doing in your dreams. If I was checking on you, then no, you weren’t dreaming, but if I was rubbing suntan lotion on you on the white sand beaches of …”
Tara held up her hand. “…don’t even go there. You didn’t need to stay, but thank you. That was really sweet. Where did your clothes come from?”
“I keep an extra shirt in the car for long stake-out nights.”
“Hey, where’s the calendar?”
Bobby scowled. “Tara, you are staying in bed today, and you are not going out. Understand. We’ll just skip the calendar, okay?”
Aggravated, she started to argue, then spied it lying face down on the coffee table. “I guess I’m really not up to doing too much anyway. You’d better get going. You’re already late.”
Bobby slipped on his coat. “I already called D. He said to stay with you until you woke up, and I knew for sure you were feeling better. Call me if you need anything.” Walking over to her, he lifted her chin with his gloved finger. “And Tara I mean it.” He kissed her forehead. “I love you. Now, go back to bed.”
She stood and walked him to the door. On tiptoes, she kissed his cheek. “I love you, too. Now, get out.”
```````````````````````````
As soon as she’d bolted the door, she located the advent calendar and opened the day’s door. A smile crossed her lips. “Perfect,” she said aloud. “This is going to work out fine.”
Even though she was already feeling a little fatigued, she went to her computer and found what she was looking for. Bobby would get the first part of his day’s surprise as soon as he got to work.
```````````````````````````
A flurry of activity had Bobby struggling to catch up when he arrived at the office. The team had been assigned a new blackmail case involving a senator. While Jack and Myles were off interviewing him, Lucy told Bobby that Jack wanted him to try to find out what he could about their most likely suspect – a woman the senator had had an affair with several years earlier by the name of Susan Lawrence. Bobby moaned and dropped into his chair. He knew that compared to Tara, his computer skills were practically nonexistent.
Flipping on his computer, he noticed immediately he had a message from Tara. Panic gripped him. “No, she’d call if she needed something,”he thought. He clicked on her message.
Happy December 6th! Click on the link below for your first surprise.
Bobby couldn’t help but grin as he read the e-card. The first page or what would be the front of the card, said “Santa’s Most Embarrasing Home Videos.” The first frame showed Santa getting stuck in a chimney with a plumber’s crack in full view. The second frame showed Santa as a victim of a misguided bird dropping. The third, had poor Santa sliding off a steep snow covered roof. Bobby started to chuckle in the fourth frame as Santa deposited gifts under the tree, he bent too close to the fireplace and caught his coat on fire. However, it was the fifth frame that made him burst into laughter. It showed a little girl opening the door to her bathroom and finding Santa sitting on her toilet. She yelled, “Gasp! Santa!”
Bobby clicked on the inside page. It read, “It’s Christmas. Expect the unexpected.”
“That’s my Tara,” he thought.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tara set her alarm for an hour. She wanted to make sure he got another e-card before he went to lunch. When it rang, she crawled out of bed and went to her computer. Quickly, she selected the next card and sent it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Susan Lawrence lived in Arlington, Virginia, Bobby had discovered. She was a newspaper reporter. Bobby jotted down her address and phone number and phoned Jack. He and Myles would meet him downstairs so they could pay her a visit. He stood and slipped on his coat. Out of the corner of his eye, an instant message popped up on the screen from Tara. He bent over the computer and opened it. Following the link, he found another e-card.
On the front page the card had a reindeer with a cheesy smile holding a long, yellow list. It said, “I made a long list of what I want for Christmas…” Clicking on the inside, he read the words, “you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you.”
He grinned and sent a message back, “I like how you think. Hope you’re feeling better. Gotta go. Love, Bobby.”
Part 2 will come later today.
Prying her eyes open at 9:00 a.m., Tara sat up and stretched. Only a few aches remained from the day before, and she was hungry. She padded out to the kitchen in search of something edible.
“Oh, you’re awake,” Bobby said from the couch making Tara jump.
“What are you doing here?”
He walked over and enveloped her in a hug. He’d obviously showered, changed, and smelled deliciously clean. “Good morning to you, too, luv. Are you hungry?”
Tara nodded. “Starved.”
“Have a seat and I’ll get you some breakfast before I leave.” Tara sat down at the table and watched Bobby pop a piece of whole wheat bread in her toaster. He placed a glass of juice in front of her.
“Don’t get me wrong here, but Bobby, why are you here so early?”
“More like still. I just couldn’t leave you, so I slept on your couch.”
“So I wasn’t dreaming about you.”
He handed her a plate with the buttered toast and raised his eyebrows. “Well, that depends on what I was doing in your dreams. If I was checking on you, then no, you weren’t dreaming, but if I was rubbing suntan lotion on you on the white sand beaches of …”
Tara held up her hand. “…don’t even go there. You didn’t need to stay, but thank you. That was really sweet. Where did your clothes come from?”
“I keep an extra shirt in the car for long stake-out nights.”
“Hey, where’s the calendar?”
Bobby scowled. “Tara, you are staying in bed today, and you are not going out. Understand. We’ll just skip the calendar, okay?”
Aggravated, she started to argue, then spied it lying face down on the coffee table. “I guess I’m really not up to doing too much anyway. You’d better get going. You’re already late.”
Bobby slipped on his coat. “I already called D. He said to stay with you until you woke up, and I knew for sure you were feeling better. Call me if you need anything.” Walking over to her, he lifted her chin with his gloved finger. “And Tara I mean it.” He kissed her forehead. “I love you. Now, go back to bed.”
She stood and walked him to the door. On tiptoes, she kissed his cheek. “I love you, too. Now, get out.”
As soon as she’d bolted the door, she located the advent calendar and opened the day’s door. A smile crossed her lips. “Perfect,” she said aloud. “This is going to work out fine.”
Even though she was already feeling a little fatigued, she went to her computer and found what she was looking for. Bobby would get the first part of his day’s surprise as soon as he got to work.
A flurry of activity had Bobby struggling to catch up when he arrived at the office. The team had been assigned a new blackmail case involving a senator. While Jack and Myles were off interviewing him, Lucy told Bobby that Jack wanted him to try to find out what he could about their most likely suspect – a woman the senator had had an affair with several years earlier by the name of Susan Lawrence. Bobby moaned and dropped into his chair. He knew that compared to Tara, his computer skills were practically nonexistent.
Flipping on his computer, he noticed immediately he had a message from Tara. Panic gripped him. “No, she’d call if she needed something,”he thought. He clicked on her message.
Happy December 6th! Click on the link below for your first surprise.
Bobby couldn’t help but grin as he read the e-card. The first page or what would be the front of the card, said “Santa’s Most Embarrasing Home Videos.” The first frame showed Santa getting stuck in a chimney with a plumber’s crack in full view. The second frame showed Santa as a victim of a misguided bird dropping. The third, had poor Santa sliding off a steep snow covered roof. Bobby started to chuckle in the fourth frame as Santa deposited gifts under the tree, he bent too close to the fireplace and caught his coat on fire. However, it was the fifth frame that made him burst into laughter. It showed a little girl opening the door to her bathroom and finding Santa sitting on her toilet. She yelled, “Gasp! Santa!”
Bobby clicked on the inside page. It read, “It’s Christmas. Expect the unexpected.”
“That’s my Tara,” he thought.
Tara set her alarm for an hour. She wanted to make sure he got another e-card before he went to lunch. When it rang, she crawled out of bed and went to her computer. Quickly, she selected the next card and sent it.
Susan Lawrence lived in Arlington, Virginia, Bobby had discovered. She was a newspaper reporter. Bobby jotted down her address and phone number and phoned Jack. He and Myles would meet him downstairs so they could pay her a visit. He stood and slipped on his coat. Out of the corner of his eye, an instant message popped up on the screen from Tara. He bent over the computer and opened it. Following the link, he found another e-card.
On the front page the card had a reindeer with a cheesy smile holding a long, yellow list. It said, “I made a long list of what I want for Christmas…” Clicking on the inside, he read the words, “you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you.”
He grinned and sent a message back, “I like how you think. Hope you’re feeling better. Gotta go. Love, Bobby.”
Part 2 will come later today.
QUOTE
I like how you think.
Me likey too!!!
Why do I have the feeling Bobby may just want the same thing ?!?!? 
The 'Santa pictures' were so funny!!!!
This just keeps getting better and better! I loved the ecards!
Looking forward to the next part.
Take care,
Sairs
Looking forward to the next part.
Take care,
Sairs
December 6 – Part 2
“So, what’s got you grinning like a Cheshire cat, Koala Boy?” Myles asked as soon as Bobby climbed in the backseat of the car.
“Tara just sent me an e-card.”
“Care to share?” Myles asked.
“Actually—no.”
Jack pulled the car out of the parking lot. “How’s Tara?”
“Better. She just needs to rest. What did you two find out from Senator Nelson today?”
“He told us he’s received three requests for payoffs accompanied by some rather telling photos.”
“Another lawmaker succumbs to the temptation of the fairer sex,” Myles quipped.
Jack continued. “He paid off the extortionist the first two times at $100,000 a pop to a post office box. When they asked for an additional $500,000, he decided it was time to call us in.”
“And he thinks the woman in the ‘telling’ photos, Susan Lawrence, is the extortionist?”
Jack nodded as he pulled onto the interstate towards Arlington. “It seems the most likely suspect. What did you find out about her?”
Bobby raked his hand through his hair. “I’m afraid I’m not as resourceful as Tara. Besides her name and address, all I found out was that she’s a reporter for the Post. “
“Is she married? Does she travel? How about bank accounts and new deposits?”
“Sorry, mate. I didn’t get that far. Sue and Lucy were going to try to keep looking.”
Switching lanes, Jack said, “Bobby, I know Tara is home sick, but….”
“Stop right there, Sparky. We are not going to bother her. She needs her rest.”
Myles rolled his eyes. “It would only take her about 30 minutes to dig that information up. You said yourself that she’s much better.”
“He’s got a point, Crash. Why don’t you call her and see if she’s up to it? I’ll let it be your decision, but we could really use her help.”
Reluctantly, Bobby punched in her speed dial number on his cell phone. After finding out she’d slept most of the day and felt significantly better, he asked her to check up on Susan Lawrence.
“Already done,” she told him. “Sue and Lucy called as soon as you left. I sent the information to your computer.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Susan Lawrence, a political reporter, met with them briefly in her home. She answered all their questions and seemed, at least to Bobby, to be genuinely surprised when they addressed the subjects of the photos sent to the senator. She was most concerned that her husband would find out about her and the senator although the affair happened before he and she started dating. They asked her to not leave town and left her.
Back in the office, Bobby hurried to his computer to read what Tara had found. Tara’s newest I.M. flashed, and he opened the third e-card already laughing. He was roaring as he read the first page which read, “Santa tries out a new reindeer.”
Bobby notices as Santa called to his reindeer, “On Dasher! On Dancer! On Flasher! And Vixen!”, the voyeur Flasher, held open his green overcoat, showing off his stuff to those watching from the apartment building the Santa’s team was passing.
His laughter brought his teammates. They surrounded his desk and read the card over his shoulder. “Our Tara sent you that!” Sue exclaimed.
“Great, isn’t it?” Bobby beamed to his buddies. “The advent calendar picture for the day is a card.”
“All right, folks, let’s get back to work,” Jack said, managing to get everyone’s attention. He then turned to Bobby, “So what did Tara have to report?”
Bobby immediately turned back to his computer monitor. “I was just checking that.”
“Yeah, right. Let me know after you read it.”
Bobby got himself a cup of coffee and took a chair in front of Jack’s desk. He then explained to Jack that Susan Lawrence married Brad Hanson, also a reporter for the Post, last year but kept her maiden name. Tara said she didn’t find any unusual banking activity Lawrence’s account, and she’s still checking on Hanson’s.
An hour later, Bobby’s monitor beeped again. He clicked open the card. “You’re the frosting on my cookies, the partridge in my tree. You make my sleigh bells jingle with the love you give to me.” ”Aw, sweet,” Bobby thought. Then he clicked on the cards inside. “And not only that,” it read, “but you’ve got a nice butt, too.”
Myles happened to pass and see the card. “Funny, I didn’t take Tara to be a derriere watcher. Thought she’d be more of an eyes person.”
Tara also included some more information. Hanson had an overseas bank account. It would take a lot longer to find out the deposits there, but in time, she’d get the information. He took the opportunity to look at the file Myles and Jack had compiled. When he finished, he set it aside, and picking up the phone, Bobby dialed Tara.
“Williams,” she answered sleepily.
“Hi, luv. You sound like you’re getting tired.”
“A little. Just got some new info on Hanson. He used to be a staff photographer before he started writing.”
Bobby let out a low whistle.
“Does that help?”
“I’d say that it puts a check in his column. Now, why don’t you go get some rest?”
“I’m planning on it. I just sent you your next card. Bye.”
The e-card came right away. He immediately opened it. On the front was a picture of a worn looking Santa sitting in front of his computer monitor. The caption read, “Santa’s making a list and checking it twice.” Bobby clicked on the inside of the card and the words “You’re Toast!” popped out.
“Is that your newest card?” Sue asked, seeing the smile on his face. He nodded. “Can I read it?”
“Sure, Mrs. Hudson.”
Sue smiled and moved to stand behind him to read the card. “I think she’s got your number.”
“She certainly does.”
The whole team was waiting when Tara sent the next card exactly an hour later. Bobby clicked the link and read, “Santa’s Second Team” across the top of the card. In two columns, the names of his second string were listed with appropriate pictures: Smasher (breaking toys), Trancer (doing yoga), Financer (sitting at a computer), Kicksin’ (kicking a football), Vomet (saying “urp”), Stupid (wearing a kick me sign on his antler), Wander (carrying a suitcase), and Spitzen (shooting a loogi). Inside, Tara wrote. “I’m glad we don’t have a second team.”
The whole team erupted into laughter. She’d added that Hanson had made two deposits each in the amount of $100,000 to his overseas account.
That was enough to question and possibly even arrest him. Jack sent Myles and Bobby speak to them. He and Sue went to visit Susan again. Hanson confessed when confronted to taking the photos without Susan’s knowledge and later getting to know her. They’d fallen in love and he’d doused his plans to use the photos as blackmail material. However, he and Susan were having trouble now, and he was about to leave her. He needed the money to start over.
Susan was crushed by the news, and Jack and Sue both believed her to be innocent of the extortion. By six o’clock, the case was wrapped up – practically a record in the bureau. “Be sure to thank Tara for her help today,” Jack told Bobby.
“I will. See you tomorrow.” He left promptly and headed for the Hallmark shop.
At soon as he got comfortably settled at Tara’s apartment, she handed him the final card for the day that she’d printed off her computer. In Christmassy, red and green letters, the front read, “I’d like to find you under my tree…” Bobby smiled and read the inside. It said, “….preferably unwrapped.”
“I think I could arrange that, my luv.”
“It was just a card,” she said with a wink.
“I got you a card, too.” He passed her a red envelope.
“But today was your day,” she protested.
“Just open it.”
Carefully, she sliced open the seal. The front said, “It’s Christmas! Time to pour honey all over ourselves and then lick it off while we sing jingle bells.”
“Bobby!” She blushed watching him try to hide his amusement. She then read the inside. “Hey, excuse me for trying to start a new tradition.”
“Sorry, I just got the floor clean from the flour. Honey is out of the question,” she teased. “I love you, but a woman has to draw the line somewhere.”
A quiet dinner at her place and a movie later, his cell phone rang. “Manning,” he answered. His face hardened. “No, I don’t want to see you. I’ve moved on. I’m happy.” He paused. “Yeah, take care of yourself, too.”
“Bobby, was that….?”
“Darcy.”
Note:
I’d like to take credit for all the cards jokes, but they were from Gibson “Speed of Life” collection from about three of years ago. I bought them to give one a day to my husband before Christmas. Of course, I had to admit a couple. After all, Tara and Bobby aren't married.
“So, what’s got you grinning like a Cheshire cat, Koala Boy?” Myles asked as soon as Bobby climbed in the backseat of the car.
“Tara just sent me an e-card.”
“Care to share?” Myles asked.
“Actually—no.”
Jack pulled the car out of the parking lot. “How’s Tara?”
“Better. She just needs to rest. What did you two find out from Senator Nelson today?”
“He told us he’s received three requests for payoffs accompanied by some rather telling photos.”
“Another lawmaker succumbs to the temptation of the fairer sex,” Myles quipped.
Jack continued. “He paid off the extortionist the first two times at $100,000 a pop to a post office box. When they asked for an additional $500,000, he decided it was time to call us in.”
“And he thinks the woman in the ‘telling’ photos, Susan Lawrence, is the extortionist?”
Jack nodded as he pulled onto the interstate towards Arlington. “It seems the most likely suspect. What did you find out about her?”
Bobby raked his hand through his hair. “I’m afraid I’m not as resourceful as Tara. Besides her name and address, all I found out was that she’s a reporter for the Post. “
“Is she married? Does she travel? How about bank accounts and new deposits?”
“Sorry, mate. I didn’t get that far. Sue and Lucy were going to try to keep looking.”
Switching lanes, Jack said, “Bobby, I know Tara is home sick, but….”
“Stop right there, Sparky. We are not going to bother her. She needs her rest.”
Myles rolled his eyes. “It would only take her about 30 minutes to dig that information up. You said yourself that she’s much better.”
“He’s got a point, Crash. Why don’t you call her and see if she’s up to it? I’ll let it be your decision, but we could really use her help.”
Reluctantly, Bobby punched in her speed dial number on his cell phone. After finding out she’d slept most of the day and felt significantly better, he asked her to check up on Susan Lawrence.
“Already done,” she told him. “Sue and Lucy called as soon as you left. I sent the information to your computer.”
Susan Lawrence, a political reporter, met with them briefly in her home. She answered all their questions and seemed, at least to Bobby, to be genuinely surprised when they addressed the subjects of the photos sent to the senator. She was most concerned that her husband would find out about her and the senator although the affair happened before he and she started dating. They asked her to not leave town and left her.
Back in the office, Bobby hurried to his computer to read what Tara had found. Tara’s newest I.M. flashed, and he opened the third e-card already laughing. He was roaring as he read the first page which read, “Santa tries out a new reindeer.”
Bobby notices as Santa called to his reindeer, “On Dasher! On Dancer! On Flasher! And Vixen!”, the voyeur Flasher, held open his green overcoat, showing off his stuff to those watching from the apartment building the Santa’s team was passing.
His laughter brought his teammates. They surrounded his desk and read the card over his shoulder. “Our Tara sent you that!” Sue exclaimed.
“Great, isn’t it?” Bobby beamed to his buddies. “The advent calendar picture for the day is a card.”
“All right, folks, let’s get back to work,” Jack said, managing to get everyone’s attention. He then turned to Bobby, “So what did Tara have to report?”
Bobby immediately turned back to his computer monitor. “I was just checking that.”
“Yeah, right. Let me know after you read it.”
Bobby got himself a cup of coffee and took a chair in front of Jack’s desk. He then explained to Jack that Susan Lawrence married Brad Hanson, also a reporter for the Post, last year but kept her maiden name. Tara said she didn’t find any unusual banking activity Lawrence’s account, and she’s still checking on Hanson’s.
An hour later, Bobby’s monitor beeped again. He clicked open the card. “You’re the frosting on my cookies, the partridge in my tree. You make my sleigh bells jingle with the love you give to me.” ”Aw, sweet,” Bobby thought. Then he clicked on the cards inside. “And not only that,” it read, “but you’ve got a nice butt, too.”
Myles happened to pass and see the card. “Funny, I didn’t take Tara to be a derriere watcher. Thought she’d be more of an eyes person.”
Tara also included some more information. Hanson had an overseas bank account. It would take a lot longer to find out the deposits there, but in time, she’d get the information. He took the opportunity to look at the file Myles and Jack had compiled. When he finished, he set it aside, and picking up the phone, Bobby dialed Tara.
“Williams,” she answered sleepily.
“Hi, luv. You sound like you’re getting tired.”
“A little. Just got some new info on Hanson. He used to be a staff photographer before he started writing.”
Bobby let out a low whistle.
“Does that help?”
“I’d say that it puts a check in his column. Now, why don’t you go get some rest?”
“I’m planning on it. I just sent you your next card. Bye.”
The e-card came right away. He immediately opened it. On the front was a picture of a worn looking Santa sitting in front of his computer monitor. The caption read, “Santa’s making a list and checking it twice.” Bobby clicked on the inside of the card and the words “You’re Toast!” popped out.
“Is that your newest card?” Sue asked, seeing the smile on his face. He nodded. “Can I read it?”
“Sure, Mrs. Hudson.”
Sue smiled and moved to stand behind him to read the card. “I think she’s got your number.”
“She certainly does.”
The whole team was waiting when Tara sent the next card exactly an hour later. Bobby clicked the link and read, “Santa’s Second Team” across the top of the card. In two columns, the names of his second string were listed with appropriate pictures: Smasher (breaking toys), Trancer (doing yoga), Financer (sitting at a computer), Kicksin’ (kicking a football), Vomet (saying “urp”), Stupid (wearing a kick me sign on his antler), Wander (carrying a suitcase), and Spitzen (shooting a loogi). Inside, Tara wrote. “I’m glad we don’t have a second team.”
The whole team erupted into laughter. She’d added that Hanson had made two deposits each in the amount of $100,000 to his overseas account.
That was enough to question and possibly even arrest him. Jack sent Myles and Bobby speak to them. He and Sue went to visit Susan again. Hanson confessed when confronted to taking the photos without Susan’s knowledge and later getting to know her. They’d fallen in love and he’d doused his plans to use the photos as blackmail material. However, he and Susan were having trouble now, and he was about to leave her. He needed the money to start over.
Susan was crushed by the news, and Jack and Sue both believed her to be innocent of the extortion. By six o’clock, the case was wrapped up – practically a record in the bureau. “Be sure to thank Tara for her help today,” Jack told Bobby.
“I will. See you tomorrow.” He left promptly and headed for the Hallmark shop.
At soon as he got comfortably settled at Tara’s apartment, she handed him the final card for the day that she’d printed off her computer. In Christmassy, red and green letters, the front read, “I’d like to find you under my tree…” Bobby smiled and read the inside. It said, “….preferably unwrapped.”
“I think I could arrange that, my luv.”
“It was just a card,” she said with a wink.
“I got you a card, too.” He passed her a red envelope.
“But today was your day,” she protested.
“Just open it.”
Carefully, she sliced open the seal. The front said, “It’s Christmas! Time to pour honey all over ourselves and then lick it off while we sing jingle bells.”
“Bobby!” She blushed watching him try to hide his amusement. She then read the inside. “Hey, excuse me for trying to start a new tradition.”
“Sorry, I just got the floor clean from the flour. Honey is out of the question,” she teased. “I love you, but a woman has to draw the line somewhere.”
A quiet dinner at her place and a movie later, his cell phone rang. “Manning,” he answered. His face hardened. “No, I don’t want to see you. I’ve moved on. I’m happy.” He paused. “Yeah, take care of yourself, too.”
“Bobby, was that….?”
“Darcy.”
Note:
I’d like to take credit for all the cards jokes, but they were from Gibson “Speed of Life” collection from about three of years ago. I bought them to give one a day to my husband before Christmas. Of course, I had to admit a couple. After all, Tara and Bobby aren't married.
Yeah . . . . her sorry i just can't use her name he's moved on . . .. 
)
)
You know, I really wish I could send you a wav file with my roaring laughter, it's pretty late here and I think I woke my parents with all the laughing...
Darcy
I hope she's not going to be bad news.
Darcy
I hope she's not going to be bad news.
UGH did you have to say the "D" word?!?
Bu I absoluetly LOVED the cards!!!
Bu I absoluetly LOVED the cards!!!
Morning everyone! Thank you for all of your comments, and no Kav, I don't think you're any more crazy than the rest of us. I hope you all have a great, blessed day.
December 7
“She called him?” Sue asked at the coffee shop that the girls had snuck off to mid-morning.
Tara nodded and Sue placed a reassuring hand on her arm. “So what did Bobby say?”
“He told her he didn’t want to see her. He also said that he’d moved on and that he was happy.”
“Girl,” Lucy piped in, “you know he’s not just happy, he’s madly in love with you.”
A tear formed in Tara’s eye. “Then why didn’t he tell her that.”
Sue sighed. “I can tell it hurt you and I’m sorry. But in Bobby’s defense, he was caught off guard when she called. He didn’t exactly have time to think about what he was saying.”
“I know. I feel so petty, but something about it bugs me.”
Lucy placed her coffee cup back on the table. “Then, why don’t you talk to him about it?” As she finished speaking, Bobby walked through the door, blowing on his cold hands. “Speak of the Tasmanian devil, look who just walked in.”
Tara turned and smiled weakly as he walked up. “Hi.”
“G’day, ladies. You girls mind if I steal Tara away for a few minutes.” He didn’t wait for an answer but took her arm, pulled her to her feet, and led her out of the café.
Outside, he offered her his arm, and she placed her gloved hand in the crook. “I thought we’d go for a walk,” he told her. They walked in silence for several minutes. “Okay, out with it.”
“With what?”
“Something about Darcy’s call last night is eating at you. Since the moment I hung up, you’ve been all moody.”
She yanked her hand away and faced him. “I have not been all moody!”
“What do you call not talking to me, sighing every time I come near, and tearing up every ten minutes? I’d say that you are abso-bloody-lutely moody.”
Tara spun and began to march back towards the Bureau, tears pooling in her eyes. Bobby grabbed her arm. “Wait!” he yelled, spinning her around. Tears ran rivers down her cheeks. “I want to know what’s going on! Yesterday, everything was fine and now….” His voice choked, and he jammed his hands in his pockets.
Tara felt her own anger soften. “And now?”
He looked at her tear stained face and stepped close. “And now you’re hurt or angry or both and I don’t know why. You’re killing me here, Tara. ” He cupped her face gently in both hands and wiped the tears away with his thumbs. “I want to know what’s going on in that pretty little head of yours.”
Tara’s eyes dropped to the ground. “Luv, look at me.” He waited until she met his gaze. “Darcy is my past, and you are my future.”
“But you didn’t tell her that,” she whispered.
Bobby chuckled softly and Tara glared at him. “No, I’m not laughing at you. It’s just that every time I think of that call I wish I had told her that I’m in love with you, Tara Williams, the most amazing, wonderful, smart, and funny woman in the world. You believe that don’t you?”
“Which part? That you wish you’d told her or that you love me?”
“Both.”
He looked so vulnerable that Tara had to smile. “Sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe its real, but yes, Bobby, I do believe you love me, and I love you, too. But Manning, if you ever get a chance again, you’d better make sure Darcy knows it, too. In fact, maybe I’ll just call her and tell her about the most amazing, wonderful, smart, and funny man that I thank God she dumped.”
“You do that, just make sure I’m around to hear it.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As soon as it was time to call it a day, Bobby approached Tara. “Ready for tonight’s surprise?”
“Abso-bloody-lutely,” she mimicked his earlier declaration.
He held out her coat. “Then, let’s go.”
In the car, Tara tried to weedle the destination out of Bobby, but he was not easily duped. Finally, he pulled into a parking lot, put the car in gear, and unbuckled his seatbelt.
“Bobby! I told you I was feeling fine. I don’t need to go to the hospital!” Tara exclaimed.
Placing a hand on her leg, he said, “I know you’re fine. We’re not here to check you in. Honest. Trust me, okay?”
They got out of the car and made their way through the hospital’s entrance. With his hand on the small of Tara’s back, he directed her down the hall and pressed the button for the fifth floor. When the doors opened, he ushered her out and to the left.
“Maternity? What’s going on?” Tara asked, her mind whirling with possibilities.
“Sshh,” he whispered. “Look.”
Tara followed his gaze. He’d stopped them in front of the nursery. Inside, three newborns lay swaddled in striped blankets. Bobby pressed his face closer to the glass. “The calendar picture today was a dove. I know this is a little far fetched, but a dove represents peace, and these little ankle biters are the closest thing I could think of to perfect peace.”
Speechless, Tara stared at the babies through misty eyes. Since no words would come, she simply linked her hand with his.
After long moments, Bobby turned to her. “We didn’t exactly have a peaceful day, but I want you to know that someday I want to have some of these…” he said inclining his head towards the window,”…and I want to have them with you.”
Tara started to say something, but he pressed a finger to her lips. He dropped his eyes to her lips and she instinctively licked them with the tip of her tongue. Tenderly, he lowered his lips towards hers. The kiss deepened and exploded and Tara felt both totally in love and totally at peace in his arms.
I hope you all have a great, blessed day.December 7
“She called him?” Sue asked at the coffee shop that the girls had snuck off to mid-morning.
Tara nodded and Sue placed a reassuring hand on her arm. “So what did Bobby say?”
“He told her he didn’t want to see her. He also said that he’d moved on and that he was happy.”
“Girl,” Lucy piped in, “you know he’s not just happy, he’s madly in love with you.”
A tear formed in Tara’s eye. “Then why didn’t he tell her that.”
Sue sighed. “I can tell it hurt you and I’m sorry. But in Bobby’s defense, he was caught off guard when she called. He didn’t exactly have time to think about what he was saying.”
“I know. I feel so petty, but something about it bugs me.”
Lucy placed her coffee cup back on the table. “Then, why don’t you talk to him about it?” As she finished speaking, Bobby walked through the door, blowing on his cold hands. “Speak of the Tasmanian devil, look who just walked in.”
Tara turned and smiled weakly as he walked up. “Hi.”
“G’day, ladies. You girls mind if I steal Tara away for a few minutes.” He didn’t wait for an answer but took her arm, pulled her to her feet, and led her out of the café.
Outside, he offered her his arm, and she placed her gloved hand in the crook. “I thought we’d go for a walk,” he told her. They walked in silence for several minutes. “Okay, out with it.”
“With what?”
“Something about Darcy’s call last night is eating at you. Since the moment I hung up, you’ve been all moody.”
She yanked her hand away and faced him. “I have not been all moody!”
“What do you call not talking to me, sighing every time I come near, and tearing up every ten minutes? I’d say that you are abso-bloody-lutely moody.”
Tara spun and began to march back towards the Bureau, tears pooling in her eyes. Bobby grabbed her arm. “Wait!” he yelled, spinning her around. Tears ran rivers down her cheeks. “I want to know what’s going on! Yesterday, everything was fine and now….” His voice choked, and he jammed his hands in his pockets.
Tara felt her own anger soften. “And now?”
He looked at her tear stained face and stepped close. “And now you’re hurt or angry or both and I don’t know why. You’re killing me here, Tara. ” He cupped her face gently in both hands and wiped the tears away with his thumbs. “I want to know what’s going on in that pretty little head of yours.”
Tara’s eyes dropped to the ground. “Luv, look at me.” He waited until she met his gaze. “Darcy is my past, and you are my future.”
“But you didn’t tell her that,” she whispered.
Bobby chuckled softly and Tara glared at him. “No, I’m not laughing at you. It’s just that every time I think of that call I wish I had told her that I’m in love with you, Tara Williams, the most amazing, wonderful, smart, and funny woman in the world. You believe that don’t you?”
“Which part? That you wish you’d told her or that you love me?”
“Both.”
He looked so vulnerable that Tara had to smile. “Sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe its real, but yes, Bobby, I do believe you love me, and I love you, too. But Manning, if you ever get a chance again, you’d better make sure Darcy knows it, too. In fact, maybe I’ll just call her and tell her about the most amazing, wonderful, smart, and funny man that I thank God she dumped.”
“You do that, just make sure I’m around to hear it.”
As soon as it was time to call it a day, Bobby approached Tara. “Ready for tonight’s surprise?”
“Abso-bloody-lutely,” she mimicked his earlier declaration.
He held out her coat. “Then, let’s go.”
In the car, Tara tried to weedle the destination out of Bobby, but he was not easily duped. Finally, he pulled into a parking lot, put the car in gear, and unbuckled his seatbelt.
“Bobby! I told you I was feeling fine. I don’t need to go to the hospital!” Tara exclaimed.
Placing a hand on her leg, he said, “I know you’re fine. We’re not here to check you in. Honest. Trust me, okay?”
They got out of the car and made their way through the hospital’s entrance. With his hand on the small of Tara’s back, he directed her down the hall and pressed the button for the fifth floor. When the doors opened, he ushered her out and to the left.
“Maternity? What’s going on?” Tara asked, her mind whirling with possibilities.
“Sshh,” he whispered. “Look.”
Tara followed his gaze. He’d stopped them in front of the nursery. Inside, three newborns lay swaddled in striped blankets. Bobby pressed his face closer to the glass. “The calendar picture today was a dove. I know this is a little far fetched, but a dove represents peace, and these little ankle biters are the closest thing I could think of to perfect peace.”
Speechless, Tara stared at the babies through misty eyes. Since no words would come, she simply linked her hand with his.
After long moments, Bobby turned to her. “We didn’t exactly have a peaceful day, but I want you to know that someday I want to have some of these…” he said inclining his head towards the window,”…and I want to have them with you.”
Tara started to say something, but he pressed a finger to her lips. He dropped his eyes to her lips and she instinctively licked them with the tip of her tongue. Tenderly, he lowered his lips towards hers. The kiss deepened and exploded and Tara felt both totally in love and totally at peace in his arms.
Those were perfect posts. I loved the cards -- so very Bobby humour!!! And I hope your husband knows how lucky he is! And Bobby's views on peace Wow oh wow -- I'm so glad Darcy dumped him too!kav
QUOTE(Kav @ Dec 7 2005, 09:38 AM)
Those were perfect posts. I loved the cards -- so very Bobby humour!!! And I hope your husband knows how lucky he is! And Bobby's views on peace Wow oh wow -- I'm so glad Darcy dumped him too!kav
Okay, just have to ditto Kav, 'cause I think she said it best!
Ahhhhhhhh ..... bobby is so lovely
and i love the cards - they were brilliant, you had me giggling away at my desk!!
and i love the cards - they were brilliant, you had me giggling away at my desk!!
Finally i am caught up and wow what a beautiful story, you really do capture them so well...
the socks. well me want...
and the card with hilarious...
and that last post was simply beautiful...thank you
the socks. well me want...
and the card with hilarious...
and that last post was simply beautiful...thank you
The cards were wicked
ANd Bobby and Tara are perfect together !!!
ANd Bobby and Tara are perfect together !!!
The matnerity scene
Bobby's interpretation of peace was perfect! "Abso-bloddly-lutely" perfect! This is a truly fantastic, heartwarming, lovely story that has me waiting for each evening to log on to check Bobby and Tara's advent calendar! It's a wonderful way to count down the days to Christmas!Thank you for sharing.
Take care,
Sairs
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