I've only recently found this site so I'm a bit like a kid at Christmas with all the fantastic stories I've found. I need to be at my computer 24/7 to catch up with them!!!! This is my first ever story so if you hate it be gentle. I'm not very computer literate so it won't have pictures etc unless there is someone out there who can help me !!!!

A Quiver Of Love

“Rank amateurs,” Charlene Cherub scoffed petulantly at the odd assortment of pathetically over eager recruits gathered in front of her. “Not one of you with any kind of experience?” she asked hopefully, but wasn’t surprised at the collective shaking of heads.

“We’ve written romance stories, though,” one told her happily.

“With difficult characters who required a lot of handling,” agreed another.

“And we always write them happily ever after,” added a third encouragingly.

“Please, cherubs, work with me here. This is the real world. Real people, not some two-dimensional characters you commandeer on paper. You can’t just erase a bad scene, delete a subversive sub-plot. You have to deal with the hand St. Valentine gives you and roll with the punches, come back kicking and fighting…” Charlene broke off her boxing jabs and stared at the bewildered cherubs in training before her. She shook her head at their undisguised enthusiasm. It went in their favour she supposed. There was plenty of time for them to become cynical on the job. She pushed past her reservations and leveled them with a stern, commanding look. After all, who was she to question the powers that be?

“Right – fall in then, look sharp. We haven’t got all day. We’ve a battle to fight – a war to win…”

“I thought this operation was all about love?” piped up one adventurous cherub, batting her eyelashes in obvious confusion.

Charlene sighed. “Well, of course it is – that’s what St. Valentine’s all about.”

“Then what war are we fighting?” another brave cherub asked in confusion. “War isn’t about love.”

“Don’t be so sure about that,” Charlene corrected with a heavy sigh. Yep, definitely rank amateurs every last one – fresh out of the Academy of Love and apparently not a bright light in the bunch. “What are we fighting? Despondency, apathy, fear, failure, insecurity…the list goes on. Those are the reasons that many humans fight against the strongest emotion of all…love.”

“Fighting against love – not for it?” a shudder of horror traveled through the little group.

“In comprehensible, I know, but humans are finicky creatures at the best of time. Throw in some of the obstacles I just mentioned and they can quickly get mired in a morose marsh of inactivity. Take this couple here…” Charlene drew an arrow out of the quiver on her back and shot it expertly at a fluffy white cloud that immediately shape-shifted into wide-screen TV. Impressed murmurs carried around the young trainees as they looked curiously at the humans working in some kind of office environment.

“There. You see those two?” another arrow delicately shot from Charlene’s bow pointed out a blonde haired woman and a dark haired man. “Sue Thomas and Jack Hudson. Three years in love and nary a kiss!”

Startled gasps flittered among the recruits. “With their hearts as our targets, this will be our finest battle. We must war against every single obstacle I mentioned before and the biggest one of all. Company politics. This isn’t going to be an easy task which is why there are so many of you, though I had hoped for some seasoned warriors…”

The cherubs looked on in horror as a thick gray mass began accumulating around the couple.

“Look, it’s sticking!” one cherub called in repulsion.

“If it gets any thicker, our arrows aren’t going to be able to penetrate it and they’ll never reach their targets!” exclaimed another.

“Good. I’m glad you understand the severity of the situation. At least they’re teaching you something useful at the academy,” Charlene said with evident relief. “I hope you are all good markswomen, because we won’t get a chance like this again. By Valentine’s Day next year, it will be too late and Jack and Sue will be lost in an abyss of darkness forever separating them. It is our job to bring this couple into the light of love.”

“What about the others?” a particularly romantic cherub asked.

“Bobby Manning and Tara Williams. Might be something there – but it’s in the early stages yet – we’re only allowed a gentle prod to see if the sparkle will turn into a sizzle. Dimitrius Gans, now there’s a success story. Happily married to the love of his life. I shot that arrow myself fifteen years ago,” Charlene added modestly. “And then we have Myles Leland III and Lucy Dotson…” she broke off, shaking her head sadly. “I’m afraid that’s one battle we lost. Still there’s no reason they shouldn’t find happiness with someone else.”

“So, our primary targets are Sue Thomas and Jack Hudson?”

“Affirmative – secondary fall out amongst the others is inevitable and may prove interesting, even enlightening, but stick to our targets, ladies.” Charlene began handing out quivers of arrows. “Handle these with care. You’ll only get one shot with each.” She picked up a pink-feathered arrow. “Romance – an important element in the human relationship. There can never be too much of this – so the point is sharpened to pierce deep and true.”

She plucked out a purple arrow next. “Respect – no relationship can last without it and since we want this particular relationship to be lasting, I suggest you make sure this one is firmly imbedded as close to the heart as you can manage.”

Next she drew their attention to a cheerfully festooned orange and yellow arrow. “Laughter – as necessary an ingredient as love to any relationship. This little baby will fly light and true, making our intended couple happy and carefree. I would suggest beginning your campaign with this one.”

Next she drew out a richly feathered red arrow. “Lust” she declared, “use sparingly and be sure to pierce only the fleshy parts. An invaluable commodity used to demonstrate love, it should never rule it.”

“Now last of all, we have Love.” Charlene held the golden arrow reverently, her eyes alight with excitement. “This little beauty must be weighed and measured and expertly wielded at just the right time or…” Her lips tightened and bright red splotches of colour appeared on her cherubic cheeks. “It doesn’t bear thinking about. Accuracy. That’s what I want to see from you ladies. Understood?”

“Yes m’am,” energetic and enthusiastic replies echoed across the horizon. “Right. Then get on with it. I suggest you start off with a simple reconnoitering mission. Off you go.”

In a flurry of wings and stray feathers and sparkly loop de loops, the newest cherubs hurled earthbound. No one was ever clear how it happened. Someone pulled up too abruptly over the bullpen perhaps. Someone else might have jigged instead of jagged. Or several inexperienced cherubs might well have been feathergating. In any case, whatever the reason, the results were still disastrous. There was a pile up and several quivers full of promise upended prematurely, heading haphazardly for the unsuspecting humans below.

Unfortunately, while all but one arrow fell harmlessly to the floor one Lust arrow hit Randy Pitts bang in the middle of his heart, turnimg this officious, pompous beaurocrat into a sex crazed individual.

Randy had been in the middle of a petty tirade against the agents overuse of paperclips. The team had been laughing at Jacks' attempts to hide his tray of clips, aware that most of them had been untwisted while he was on the phone or deep in thought.

As the cherubs watched in horror Randy turned and looked at Eleanor Rippendorf who had just entered the pen to ask if any of the guys would be available to participate in this years Bachelor Auction and Gala Dinner to be held on Saturday February 14th: St. Valentines Day. Two years on from the last one she was determined that this time she would buy and keep Jack. She had heard that Jack and Sue were not an item and she wasn't going to let him escape again.

As Randy turned and saw Eleanor his eyes popped out on stalks 'Well, hello' he leered in his sexiest voice, which wasn't really very sexy at all but it was the best he could manage.
Stunned by his behaviour the team listened as Eleanor explained about the auction- her intention to buy Jack was very clear and he began to sweat and rub his fingers along his collar in panic - a look seen by Sue who smiled at him and placed her hand on his arm. Eleanor saw this move and began to flirt with Jack 'I'm sure you'll do very well for us again this year, Jack!!'

Still leering at Eleanor, Randy volunteered for the auction, standing beside her he ran his hand down her back and grabbed her bottom, giving it a squeeze. 'See you later, baby' he smiled as seductively as he could and walked out of the pen.

As Eleanor followed, Bobby verbalised the question they had all been silently asking; 'What the heck was that all about?

'No idea, Crash but anything that stops her chasing me is good' Jack grinned placing his hand on Sue's back.

As the team returned to work on their latest case the cherubs picked up their fallen arrows and returned to Charlene a little crestfallen at their efforts so far.

A new story and a new writer and new to the forum! Welcome! Please join us in fanfic land where dreams do come true and anything is possible including someone falling for Randy Pitts!... Well maybe not everything is possible... or is it?

Looking great so far hun. Welcome to the site and i can't wait to read more. )

I agree with you so many great stories on here. It takes some time but eventually you read them all. LOL i am still trying

Looks promising!

And Randy chasing Eleanor???? (But seems like a match made in heaven!)

Welcome to the board!

good start there ............can't wait for more.i think sue once again going to buy jack.......................... i have to agree with flip it looks promising....... Eleanor and jack but sue and jack

chapter 2

As Charlene held her head in her wings they shuffled their feet, hanging their heads in shame.

'So....... apart from filling Randy with lustful thoughts about Eleanor did you notice anything of use?'

The smallest cherub, Emerald raised her hand tentatively ' I did, when Eleanor talked about the auction, she was flirting with Jack but he kept looking at Sue and he looked hopeful and she touched him on the arm, like she was reassuring him.'

'Excellent observational skills dear' Charlene told her. 'Now did anyone else notice anything?' She asked more in hope than conviction. The other cherubs continued to look at the floor and shook their heads.

'Emerald, you are to be Jack's case worker - use the others as you need them. get inside his head. Jack is calm, reliable, thorough, he thinks long and hard before he takes action. Sadly when it comes to Sue he thinks too much and forgets to listen to his heart. Find out why and use it. Sapphire you are to be Sue's case worker, Sue is kind, gentle, thoughtful and caring - find out why she is afraid to tell him her feelings'

'Isn't it Company Policy? Topaz asked nervously.
'That is a small part, there is a bigger reason, the policy thing could be worked around' Charlene explained. Now go, all of you and keep the arrows safe until you know what you're doing PLEASE!!!'

' But what about the others?' Jasper asked.
Giving them a steely glare and sighing deeply Charlene asked 'Don't you think you have done enough today cherubs?'

As she saw their crestfallen faces she relented 'OK, Jasper you can work with Bobby, Onyx you can work with Tara, Diamond you work with Lucy, Opal with Myles, Topaz you are with Randy since it was your arrow that hit him, Quartz with Eleanor. Pearl I have a special job for you and Ruby I want you to work with this lady. Try and stay out of trouble please cherubs and I want progress reports on my cloud tomorrow morning.

Before Charlene can leave Quartz raised her wing, sighing Charlene turned round 'Yes..........?'
'If Randy lusts after Eleanor, does she need a lust arrow too?'
Sniggering, the other cherubs know who Eleanor lusts after. Firmly Charlene replied 'No there will be no arrows before tomorrow. Focus on our targets which are Jack and Sue. Failure is not an option here'

'What if we don't get them together?' Emerald asked nervously.
Sadly Charlene explained ' Jack will move to New York, meet up with Allie his old girlfriend who is so not good for him. They will marry and she will nag him into leaving the bureau and he will be tied to a 9-5 office job as a lawyer which will drive him nuts. He needs to be with Sue who is sweet and kind and gentle and will support him in whatever he does not Allie who will boss him and put him down and treat him like a trophy (a very good looking trophy but that isn't the point). As I said failure is not an option.'

'No pressure then!! Sapphire joked, trying to relieve some of the tension she was feeling.

Creative take here, learningtosign! Welcome to the board and to the world of writing!! Randy chasing Eleanor... methinks that will be great fun to watch! And I really like your use of various jewels for the names of the cherubs. Wonderful!! We'll be looking for more!!

thanks for comments so far didn't expect any this quickly am trying to post loads today as kids are out so actually get the computer!!!!

Should have said Jack signs as he speaks when with Sue. I don't know enough about signing to write the sentances the way he would sign so it will all be in written English

chapter 3

As the cherubs returned to their places in the pen and watched the team working on their latest case, Emerald became thoughtful; 'It must be good to be human, to feel love and be loved, something we'll never really know or understand........'

Oblivious to everyone else Jack moved his chair to sit beside Sue and help her with some research (well that was his excuse anyway, and he was sticking to it). As he placed her hand on his shoulder he revelled in their closeness. As the cherubs watched Sue leant into him, signing 'Thanks' and smiled at him, causing his heart to beat so uncontrollably he had to think hard whether he'd taken his medication that morning.

Taking him to lunch Sue asked about the auction; 'You don't really want to do it do you? placing her hand on his arm as she spoke.

'As Myles says it is for the children but no... I guess because I'm sick of being single.............' Changing the subject he asked about David.

'He met someone when he was in New York, saved me from having to break up with him.................' As she smiled at him his heart went into overdrive again. 'Why can't I just tell her I love her?' he thought to himself, not for the first time.

Watching them return to the bureau the cherubs noticed how closely they walk, chatting and laughing together. Emerald pointed out that Sue had moved Levi from between them so she and Jack could be closer.
'I don't know what to do here' Emerald told Sapphire 'they obviously love each other so we don't need the love arrow, they respect each other. I think laughter and romance should be our arrows of choice'

'Absolutely, excellent choice, but how?............' Sapphire replied a bit clueless. (Kinda like Jack is at times!!!!!)
'I have an idea, I'm going to plant a seed in Jack's head' Emerald replied. Landing on Jack's shoulder and leaning forward she whispered in his ear.

'Sue, how about we do something fun tonight- relax, take our minds off this case.'

'Looks good, what did you have in mind?

'How about you take me ice skating and I'll buy dinner after?'

Smiling at him chekily and raising her eyebrows she agreed 'It could be fun, have you done ice skating before?'

'I play hockey, how hard can it be? I'll pick you up at 7.00'

Grinning as she walked away she thought to herself 'you have no idea, Sparky, no idea at all'

she is so right there .....sue is right for him and not allie................eek

Chapter 4

As the cherubs watched, having fired off their laughter arrows which had hit their intended targets, they 'high-fived' at their success so far.

That evening at the rink, Sue spent most of the time doubled up with laughter as Jack found it much harder than he had thought, spending most of his time either falling over or sliding on his backside.
'Not much help are you Thomas' he grinned as she stood over him, wishing she had a camera.
'Hey you told me it was easy, Hudson' She put out a hand to help him then as he wnt to grab it she skated off , watching him struggle to his feet from the far side of the rink.

'You'll pay for that Thomas.'

'Gotta catch me first Sparky!!!!'

As they walked to the restaurant, Jack put his arm around Sue's shoulder and tried to find the words he'd been searching for for 3 years.

Still laughing over dinner Sue complained about not having a camera. 'Didn't you know my phone has one?' Jack asked moving swiftly as Sue punched him on the arm.
'Now you tell me Sparky. I could have used the photos to blackmail you into doing all my reports for Randy. Next time I will be armed...'

'You think after tonight there will be a next time? I'm not sure my dignity could stand a 'next time'' Jack asked, hoping she would say 'yes'.

'Smiling sweetly at him and raising her eyebrows she replied quietly 'I hope so, it was fun'.

'It was even though I'm soaked.'

Leaving her apartment, after they'd walked Levi and had coffee, Jack kissed her gently on the cheek. 'I'll see you tomorrow, Sue'.

Sitting on his shoulder Emerald was even more confused, as was Sapphire who was sitting on Sue's shoulder.
That night Emerald watched as Jack dreamt about Sue- about past cases, the times she'd been kidnapped, the support she'd given him at various times, her many words of wisdom, the kiss at Callaghn & Merced and the auction 2 years ago. Later that night he dreamed about a future with Sue; marriage, a home and children.

That night as Sapphire watched, Sue had a similar dream about Jack- the day she met him, when he told her she was assigned to his team, the way he'd backed her despite her mistakes, the times he'd reassured her, his concern when Levi was missing even though he'd been so worried about Bobby, the comfort he'd given when Phyllis Randall's words had been so cruel and when they were looking for Otto Zimmer and all the emotions that had raised in her life.
Waking she remembered the people who had assumed they were a couple- Howie and Helga among others.
Falling asleep again she also dreamed of a future with Jack- marriage, a home and children.

wonderful! I love the way you write them, I'm also curious about the two cherubs who are dealing with people you haven't yet mentioned their names...
I'll look foreward for more!

I like the part where you post every few minutes. Good story, very hopeful for our favorite couple.

Hey just found this! You're doing great and I can't wait to find out what happens next!

Nishita

I'm very impressed thus far.

It's very interesting to see how one prompt has created so many different angles.

I like how the cherubs are named after precious stones/jewles. Trying to think of C names for mine makes my head hurt.

Great beginning.

So, Jack found figure skating different than hockey skating.

Welcome!

I love your story so far, I'm curious to see who the two unidentified people are, who the cherubs have been assigned to.

I loved a lust ridden Randy... it's going to be so interesting to see how that plays out!

I'll be looking forward to the next installment,

Sairs

Thanks for the feedback so far, i'm enjoying writing this. a few notes; living in England i have no idea whether the banks of the Potomac are good for romantic walks or not but for this story they are. also i have no idea what ball games are played when so i figured i'd leave it open, didn't want Jack offerring baseball or football games in the middle of winter!!! So not cool, cold yes but cool no!!!!

Chapter 5

Meeting together the following morning the cherubs fed back to Charlene. ‘They love each other, they laugh together but they won’t share those feelings with each other or anyone else.’

‘Any idea why?’ Charlene asked.

Both cherubs shook their heads ‘we thought we could fire off the romance arrows at the Gala – as long as we can keep Eleanor out of the way’.

‘I’m impressed; you’ve both done very well keep up the good work, the laughter arrows worked well last night, any questions?’

As they shook their heads, Charlene turned to the other cherubs ‘Found anything?’

Randy’s cherub explained that he spent all night thinking about Eleanor; ‘He only wants ….. you know….. can I shoot a laughter arrow or romance? I don’t like the way this is going.’

‘A wise decision, Topaz. Lust on its own is never good and remember humans lust after many things including sex, power and money. What happened with Eleanor?’

Rather embarrassed, Quartz mumbled ‘umm….. she appears to be lusting after Jack, but I didn’t use my arrow…..’

‘I know you didn’t. When you use lust you must make sure Randy is around, she will lust after the first man she sees. You won’t need lust for Jack and Sue until they are married. They’ve both made a promise to themselves and God that they won’t ..you know .. until they are married’

‘Wow!’ All the cherubs took a deep breath, ‘That doesn’t happen too often. You mean Jack hasn’t….?’

‘Not since he met Sue, no.’ Charlene told them. Turning to the other cherubs she asked about Bobby, Tara, Myles and Lucy.
‘Nothing to note really, they’re friends, colleagues, they all seem to value the friendships they have’ their 4 cherubs reported. ‘We thought we could shot the romance arrows at the auction – they all laugh and joke together. Bobby and Tara respect all of the team, Myles and Lucy respect Bobby and Tara but not each other.’

‘Ok cherubs, back to work, you’re all doing well, I’m very pleased with all of you. Pearl, Ruby I’d like to see you’.
As the others left the clouds and returned to the pen Charlene asked ‘Anything?’

Both cherubs shook their heads ‘He’s still too sad after all this time.’
‘And her?’
‘She’s still afraid.’

‘Keep watching, things will change soon, the Boss tells me.’

‘St. Valentine you mean?’ Pearl asked.

‘No, the Big Boss’ Charlene replied in awe.

Sitting in the pen the 6 cherubs continued to watch their assignments while elsewhere in the bureau Topaz and Quartz shot laughter arrows at Randy and Eleanor. As Eleanor watched Randy shoot his video for the auction, Quartz shot her lust arrow which hits its target. As the effects of the arrow began to work Eleanor started to make eyes at him. ‘Well, I know who I’ll be bidding for this year’ she whispered huskily as she ran her hands down his chest, around his waist, grabbed his backside and squeezed it roughly.

As they walked in on them Jack, Bobby and Myles looked at each other dumbfounded unable to believe what they were seeing. After Eleanor and Randy left the guys dissolved into hysterics. ‘Eleanor and Randy? I don’t believe it.’ Myles exploded with mirth.

As he ran his hand through his hair Jack was just relieved that Eleanor was no longer chasing him. ‘I have no idea why but all I can say is I am so glad.’

Clapping him on the shoulder, Bobby grinned and said ‘well that leaves the way open for a certain special Sheila to buy you…………………..’

As Myles opened his mouth to come out with a smart comment, Jack gave them a look that said ‘zip it or I’ll shoot the pair of you.’

As Emerald, Jasper and Opal watched Emerald asked ‘so Jack and Sue are in love with each other, but they don’t realise…… but everyone else does?’
Seeing the other 2 cherubs nod she continued ‘I think we’ve drawn the short straw here, even Myles and Lucy would be a piece of cake compared to this.’

‘Shush girls, they are about to offer the dates’ Opal told then firmly.

Flying to Jacks shoulder Emerald whispered in his ear ‘Ice skating, ball game, dinner and a romantic walk. Ice skating, ball game, dinner, romantic walk. Skating, game, dinner, walk’

As Jack sat down he took a deep breath ‘Hi Jack Hudson, Special Agent FBI. My date will be ice skating, a ball game, dinner then a romantic walk along the banks of the Potomac…………………..’
As he finished his video clip the wondered where the heck all that came from. ‘Ice Skating? A romantic walk?’

Bobby sat down next. ‘Hi, Bobby Manning, Special Agent FBI. I’m offering a movie, dinner then a Mojoagogo concert’.
As Jasper jumped up and down on his shoulder with glee and shouted ‘yes! Yes! Yes! He heard me, he listened!’ Bobby got out of the chair very confused.

Sitting on his shoulder as Myles took a deep breath Opal whispered in his ear ‘Keep it simple Myles; you don’t want to come over as pompous. Keep the smile gentle, warm and sincere.’
Smiling warmly Myles began ‘Hi, Myles Leland, Special Agent FBI. I’m offering a days sailing followed by a romantic dinner at the yacht club.’

Walking back to the pen all 3 are totally confused having offered very different dates to those they had originally intended while their 3 cherubs are flapping around in excitement doing heavenly cartwheels and high fiving like Howie on a bad day.
‘Well ladies we’ve done our bit, now it’s up to Sapphire, Onyx and Diamond’ Emerald told them as they flew up the corridor.

Passing Randy’s office Jack noticed Randy and Eleanor with their arms wrapped around each other, kissing passionately. ‘Hey, guys look at this’ . As they looked in through the open door Myles and Bobby almost choked at the sight. ‘Randy and Eleanor?’ Myles gasped ‘I think I’ve entered a parallel universe somewhere.’

As they entered the pen Jack looked over and smiled at Sue who smiled back and signed ‘You OK?’ as Lucy said ‘Jack, Director wants to see you in his office, now.’

Too cute! I love it when the guys are all befuddled!

This is fantastic. And so glad that Myles has a cherub to keep him in line. I couldn't bear Myles in that bachelor auction episode! but I'm intrigued about who Ruby and Opal's subject is? I'm trying to figure it out and you are being very mysterious. Welcome, by the way.

kav

Welcome and wonderful start!!!!

Keep up the good work.

Jill

Welcome to the site. We have alot of fun here. Hope you do, too!

This story is great. I just found it and I'm already waiting patiently for more.....umm, okay......impatiently for more!

hi again, thanks again for feedback
now i know what i'm doing postings should be longer but less often

Chapter 6

Confused, his heart sinking Jack was convinced there had been a complaint; ‘He never wants to see us unless there is a problem’ he muttered as he walked out of the pen and took the elevator to the top floor, Emerald still on his shoulder.

‘Hi Jack, Come on in, how’d the filming go?’ The director, an older man, asked as his secretary showed Jack in.

Feeling more relaxed at the friendly welcome he received Jack replied ‘Yeah, good thanks. Lucy said you wanted to see me? Is there a problem?’

‘No, no problem. How about we go for a coffee talk away from the office? Don’t know about you but I could use some air’

‘Ummm………….. yeah, fine’ Jack replied uncertainly.

Crossing the road outside the bureau Emerald looked on in horror as Jack and the director were hit from behind and bundled into a van.
Wings flapping wildly and hands over her face Emerald panicked ‘They didn’t teach this in Angel School – what do I do?’ Torn between staying with Jack and asking advice from Charlene she decided to remain in the van.

10 minutes later Bobby took a call in the pen. ‘Guys we have a situation, Jack and the Director appear to have been seized. Witnesses say 2 men were knocked out and bundled into a van. We have a partial plate; Tara can you run it please.’ He handed her the details. ‘Van is a black transit, Metro have alerted all officers to look out for it but not to intercept at this time, just tail it.’

Reading his lips Sue felt tears beginning to well up and she had to fight hard so they didn’t begin to fall.

Watching in horror the cherubs began to panic ‘There’s no arrow for this’ Sapphire mumbled. ‘Topaz go and see Charlene.’ As Bobby continued Jasper flapped ineffectively around his head. Watching Sue closely Bobby asked D to work with her. ‘Luce, you and Myles take these witnesses, Tara and I will take these’ He handed Lucy a list with names on.

‘Anything on the plate?’ D asked knowing it was unlikely but still hopeful.
Shaking her head Tara answered ‘Stolen most likely, no black vans, well no vans of any colour with these letters or numbers’ aware this was not the answer anyone wanted.

Voicing the question everyone was thinking silently, Sue asked ‘Why them?’
‘We think wrong place wrong time’ Bobby replied as gently as he could, fully aware of Sue’s feelings for Jack. ‘According to his secretary, Jack and the Director were leaving to have a coffee and talk about something but she doesn’t know what. It could have been any one of us’

‘So why anyone?’ She persisted.

‘Couple of FBI workers gives you a lot of leverage if you want something’ Myles explained trying to be gentle.’ I’m sure they will be in touch to let us know what they want.’

‘Ok people, let’s get to work; Sue, you and D look at the security tapes, see if they said anything that will help.’ Bobby gave her shoulder a gentle squeeze as he spoke.

Nodding sadly, Sue wondered how things could go so wrong so quickly; ‘was it only last night we were skating?

Placing a hand on her shoulder D tried to comfort her ‘We will find them, they’re experienced, we will bring him back’

Trying hard to hold back her tears, Sue smiled weakly and signed ‘Thank you’.

Watching the tapes closely twice Sue saw nothing that would be helpful. ‘Sorry guys, there’s nothing to report, anything from any witnesses?’

‘Not really, 1 driver, 2 others – Jack and the Director were hit from behind, one left on the floor while the first one was put in the van then they picked up the second man, threw him in the back, closed the door and jumped in the front. It was over so quickly no one had time to do anything. The Directors ID clip was found at the scene his badge and ID were in his office.’ Bobby told them, hoping Sue wasn’t able to read in his face the concern he was feeling.

‘Do we know why the Director wanted to see Jack?’ Luce asked.

‘No, his secretary said he’d asked to see him but it wasn’t serious or a complaint, he wanted a chat but other than that she had no idea’ Myles answered.

Looking at Sue’s face Sapphire began to feel sad too ‘I know why she finds it helpful when Jack is around. I wish I had someone to hug me right now’ she thought. Suddenly she found herself surrounded by all the other cherubs for a heavenly hug.

As Topaz returned she told them ‘Charlene says to stay with your cases- the Boss knows about this and it will be OK’
As all the cherubs breathed heavenly sighs Opal asked ‘Can we tell them it will be OK?’

Shaking her head Topaz continued ‘No, it needs to happen for a reason, all of which will become clear. But we must all stay focussed on the matter in hand which is Jack and Sue.’

Had more computer time than i expected so have posted next chapter - enjoy

Chapter 7

Waking up in a brick room, Jack rubbed the back of his head, feeling a lump the size of an egg ’ Boy, that hurts’ he muttered as he felt the room swimming around in front of him, feeling sick and dizzy. Taking a couple of deep breaths he focussed on his surroundings seeing the Director lying on the floor, either still out of it or dead. Trying to stand he wobbled and collapsed to his knees, leaning against the wall he waited till the dizziness and nausea passed before he crawled over to the Director.
Thankfully finding a good pulse and noticing the Directors even breathing Jack collected his thoughts and realised his gun, badge and phone were missing. Looking around he saw one small window which was allowing some light into the room, checking his watch he noted it was 4.00PM.

Leaning heavily against the wall he began to pray then found his thoughts drifting to Sue. Roused from his thoughts by the Director mumbling he staggered over to him. Noting he was still out of it he removed his jacket and the waistcoat he’d worn for the filming, having subscribed to Myles’ ‘look sharp, feel sharp’ school of thought in an effort to muster up some enthusiasm for the auction. Lifting the directors’ head he placed the waistcoat under it and his jacket over him and returned to lean against the wall. ‘Boy, sure wish I had some painkillers’ he mumbled as his head thumped. Drifting in and out of sleep he was awoken at 8PM by the sound of the door opening.
Watching anxiously he saw a masked man enter with some sandwiches.

‘He awake?’ he asked looking over at the Directors’ prone form.

‘Still out of it’ Jack replied.

‘If you do what we say, you’ll both get out of here alive.’

‘So what do you want?’ Jack asked, trying to build a relationship with him, as taught at Quantico.

‘You’ll find out tomorrow – when he’s awake you’ll explain our demands to your friends at the FBI.’

Placing the food on the floor he walked out. Sitting in the silence, Jack listened for anything that might give him a clue where they were.

Dozing off again Jack was woken at 10.00PM by the Director stirring. Helping him to sit up Jack asked ‘You OK, Sir?
‘Apart from a pounding headache….. what happened, Jack?’

‘Sketchy on the details, Sir.. got hit on the head.. woke up here. Someone came in earlier with food, said we’d find out what they wanted tomorrow. They’ve taken my gun, ID and phone.’

Just got caught up and I'm really enjoying this.
Great story.

And this is where you ended it?

Hmmm, I think you've been taking lessons on cliff hangers!

I wonder what they want.

You're doing an excellent job!!!

Jill

Nishita

Chapter 8

That evening in the pen Bobby called a meeting to update and review the case. ‘Nothing’ Sue told him, hoping her panic wasn’t sounding in her voice. ‘They’ve all drawn a blank, witnesses couldn’t give us much and we’ve not heard anything from the kidnappers.’ Sitting down she thought, not for the first time ‘Why did I never tell him how I felt?’

‘OK people you might as well all go home, there’s nothing we can do tonight. If anything comes in I’ll contact you.’

‘You staying, Bobby?’ Tara asked. As he nodded she sat down at her desk. ‘In that case I’ll stay with you. I err….. don’t want to be on my own…… ’ she stammered.

Looking at their arrows Jasper and Onyx picked up their respect and laughter arrows and took aim at both Tara and Bobby, hitting them on the outer edges of their hearts. Watching as they flew around their room and clapped their hands and wings in glee they saw a change take place in Bobby and Tara’s relationship.

Walking Sue and Levi to the car, D placed a fatherly hand on her shoulder and turned so she could read his lips. ‘We will find them Sue, we will bring him back. I promise’ he told her gently.

‘I know……………….. it’s just that…………………’ As the tears began to run down her face D wiped them away with his thumb ‘You’re in love with him aren’t you?’ he asked softly.

‘I…………….errr…………………ummm’ she mumbled.

Seizing the moment Sapphire, who was sitting on Sue’s shoulder pulled out her love arrow and pushed it deep into Sue’s heart. Feeling a strange sensation she looked up at D. ‘Yes I am with all my heart and mind and soul.’

Sapphire was beside herself with excitement as she flew around the car park singing ‘yes, yes, yes’ and doing all manner of twists and turns in delight.

Oblivious to the ecstatic cherub D asked ‘So………………………. have you told him?’

Watching her shake her head he gently asked ‘Why not?’

Mumbling she tried to explain ‘I don’t think he feels the same, to him I’m a friend, a colleague, nothing more…………………………..Who would want a wife......... .err.... girlfriend who is deaf?’

Pricking up her ears Sapphire thought ‘That’s it…………………. she’s afraid.’

Lifting her head so she was looking at him, D reassured her ‘Sue, he’s nuts about you. You 2 are a marriage made in heaven, just like Donna and I are. When he gets back you must talk with him, OK?’

Nodding, Sue was stunned, she couldn’t believe she’d just told D how she felt and she wasn’t totally convinced he was right but she hoped it was true.

‘Sue, go home, try and sleep and we’ll see you tomorrow.’ As he left her he gave her a fatherly kiss on the cheek.

Sitting in the pen, Bobby ordered Chinese for him and Tara, while he went to fetch it Tara looked at the auction website. Watching the teams’ videos she put in a bid for Bobby. ‘I’d love to go to another Mojoagogo concert, especially with him’ she mumbled to herself remembering the last one and that kiss. ‘I could work my way back into the dating pool too, now Stanley and I have split – lousy, rotten two-timing slug that he was.’

As Bobby returned with the food, they watched the other video clips ‘You get the feeling Jack wants Sue as his date? That would be right up her street.’ He asked, hoping if she knew anything she would spill. ‘Perhaps she needs a nudge to bid for him.’

‘Bobby, leave it, they’ll get together when it’s right and now isn’t the time. She’s worried enough about him without raising her hopes by getting her to bid on a date he may not be around for…………….’

A little crestfallen he admitted she was right. ‘I know but they look so good together and I know he likes her……………. a lot.’

Taking a mouthful of food he remembered something he hadn’t told her. ‘We never told you about Randy and Eleanor did we? Laughing hysterically he told her what they had seen.
‘No………………..he………………..they didn’t?…………………with the door open?, uugh .....that is gross. Randy and Eleanor………….’ As she joined in the laughter their cherubs hugged and kissed each other and bounced off the walls in delight

Your doing great hun, loving it

You really are spoiling us with the posts.

Also, kudos to you for not ignoring D.

kids are both out so i have more computer time!!!

Chapter 9

The following morning, Jack woke at 7.00 to find the Director looking at him thoughtfully. ‘How you doing, Sir?

‘OK, heads thumping still. How are you?’

‘Taking a deep breath, he said ‘I’ll be OK, neck’s a bit sore though.’

Over some now grotty, stale sandwiches the director asked ‘So, what’s her name?’

Emerald pricked up her ears as Jack choked, unsure whether it was due to the question or the dry sandwich. ‘Who?’

‘The woman you dreamed about last night. I woke up, couldn’t get back to sleep and you were mumbling ‘ I love you…………………………… marry me'…………………….don’t leave me……….. just curious.’

Turning a vivid shade of red, Jack looked at the floor and mumbled ‘You wouldn’t want to know.’

‘Tell you what Jack, let’s agree something here, anything we say in this room is off the record.’

‘Ummmmmmmmmmmmmmm……………………….yes, Sir’ he replied, determined not to say anything.

‘Call me Pete, we could be here a while’

Sitting on the floor, his head thumping Jack is convinced that somewhere along the way he’s entered Myles’ parallel universe. ‘I can’t tell him about Sue and I certainly can’t call him Pete’ he thought to himself. Changing the subject, he asked about Pete’s ID.
‘I left my badge in my desk, the plastic clip I took off and dropped on the ground while they were loading you in the van. I had a few seconds before I lost consciousness.’

‘So they don’t know you’re FBI?’ Jack asked, a plan beginning to form in his slightly befuddled brain. As Pete shook his head Jack continued. ‘That could give us an edge – we’ll tell them you’re a friend of my dad’s down from Wisconsin for a few days, thought you’d look me up. They may free you or have their plans thrown into confusion if they were expecting 2 FBI workers. Whatever happens, follow my lead, Sir.’

Looking at him intently Pete asked ‘So? Who is she? Do I know her?’

‘I’ll take the 5th if you don’t mind…….’

Shrugging his shoulders Pete asked ‘OK. What is your plan?’

‘I’m guessing that one of us will need to read a statement, either live or recorded, spelling out their demands, I will try to sign some clues to Sue, just keep looking directly at the camera.’

‘Good plan, ever thought of going for Supervisors post?’

Laughing Jack replied ‘Nope, I have more than enough paperwork at this level. No offence, but I’d go nuts in an office all day. I love my job.’ Running his hand through his hair and feeling the bump still there along with some matted blood, he hoped he hadn’t been rude.
‘So, what did you want to see me about?’

‘We wanted you undercover in the White House- as the Presidents’ son. You look a lot like him and we needed an insider’

‘The Presidents’ son?’ Jack asked confused but aware that the likeness had been commented on by a number of people- physically at least. ‘You are aware that he does drugs, drink, sex, there are rumours of him paying women to have abortions or give the baby up for adoption and keep quiet as well as rumours of women who have disappeared when they’ve spoken out. I can take on many roles but not that-sorry sir, it goes against everything I believe in. Why did you want me in there?’

‘Threats have been made against the President- we need an insider, we were gonna use some leverage to send him away for a while and say he’d seen the light…………’

Chapter 10

Further conversation was halted as the door opened and 3 masked men entered brandishing shotguns. Taking them down 3 flights of stairs to another room the leader told Jack to stand in the corner. ‘He’ll read a statement with our demands – 2 FBI Agents gives us a bargaining tool.’

‘He’s not FBI, he’s a friend of my Dad’s, from Wisconsin, down for a few days, thought he’d look me up. He’s regretting it now, aren’t you Pete?’
Aware he’s thrown their plan into confusion Jack looked down at the floor and smiled.

‘You stay there Agent Hudson’ the leader pointed to the corner, ‘He reads the statement.’
‘If you want leverage, they’ll need to know I’m alive – he can read the statement, they’ll hear the fear in his voice but they’ll want to see me. If they think I’m dead they won’t play ball.’

Pointing his gun at Pete, the leader told him to sit down. Jack placed a hand on Pete’s shoulder ‘Just tell them who you are and read the statement, it’ll be OK.’ Moving away he made sure he was in the view of the camera.

The statement read ’ My name is Pete Holder, I am a civilian. In exchange for our lives they want to following prisoners released- Joe Smith, Martin Williams, Robert Davis and Terence Johnson. They will contact the FBI tomorrow morning to arrange the handover.’

As Jack signed, finger spelled and mouthed words Emerald sat on his shoulder talking in his ear. ‘Tell her you love her, Jack, no-one else will know. Just 4 little words ‘Sue, I love you’. Do it Jack, just do it.’ Coming to the end of the statement Jack considered it, changed his mind and looked at the floor.
Emerald beat her wings and hit her head with her hands in frustration.

While Pete and Jack were taken back to the room the third kidnapper drove to the bureau and passed the video to an elderly lady asking her to hand it in to the FBI.

LOVED IT!!! Oh I can't wait for more! Everything is going to be ok... Bobby and Tara Jack and Sue have to be together and Randy and Elenor ha that was so funny!

THat last post was before I read this one
now im scarred. everything gots to be ok? Still can't wait for more.

I'm glued to the refresh button.......please hurry back with more!

I loved it as well. Keep posting!

Nishita

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Hopefully he signed SOMETHING that would give a hint about what's going on.

Fantastic posts, this story is developing brilliantly. I'm a little concerned for Jack but the team is on the case!

Looking forward to more,

Sairs

Thanks so much for the positive feedback, it gives me a real buzz to see it when i go to post more

Chapter 11

10 minutes later Bobby fetched the video from the lobby, had it dusted for prints and asked the lady to stay to give a statement. Returning to the pen he ran the video.

‘Tara, you and Luce run checks on these 4 and all known associates. D, you and Myles go and see Howie. Sue, you and I will interview the old lady …Umm .. Beryl’s her name.’

‘Bobby wait, Jack’s trying to give us some clues – he’s signing.’

‘Great, I knew Sparky would come up with something. Look through it give us what you can, Beryl can wait. Luce can you get her a cup of tea or something, tell her we’ll be with her ASAP. Thanks.’

‘Bobby, while I look at the tape can you check with the doc, ask how long Jack will be OK without his medication?’ Sue asked quietly, trying not to show her concerns to the team.

As Bobby disappeared, Sue ran the tape again, hoping and praying it wouldn’t be the last time she'd ever see him. Even with messy hair, stubble and crumpled clothes he still looked handsome, his eyes still like pools of dark chocolate.

Picking up a pen and pad of paper she muttered ‘OK then Sparky, lets see what you’re trying to tell us.’

“Yesterday, woke 4pm, sore head. Today 10.am, 3 men, white, English. Think DC, not sure. Small airplanes, bricks, same D, Stayler. Pigs. Children, lots, noisy. Church bells, repeat, again. Phone, gun, ID- gone. Him, me OK.”

Rewinding the tape she prayed she would have the chance to tell him how she felt. A second viewing gave no further clues, leaving it to rewind she took Levi with her and walked to the nearest coffee shop where she bought coffee and donuts for the team.

Walking into the pen she saw Bobby and Tara with Beryl running an e-fit and noticed how closely Tara and Bobby were sitting.
The cherubs remained quiet, just observing, aware that now was not the time for any arrows.

JP followed Sue into the pen waving a file. ‘Got some prints guys – they belong to one Michael Davis, aged 24 a rap sheet for breaking and entering, some drugs offences, not generally known as being the smartest cookie in the bag. Brother Martin aged 28 has just gone down for armed robbery at City Savings Bank on 4th. As he spoke Tara pulled up his rap sheet, ‘That’s him’ Beryl told her pointing at the computer screen.
‘Thank you so much, you have been a great help, Beryl.’ Bobby stood up and shook her hand and asked Luce to show Beryl out. As Luce showed Beryl to the elevator, she brushed past JP and flashed him a beaming smile which didn’t go unnoticed by the team or by Diamond.

Handing out coffee and donuts Sue asked Bobby about the medication.
‘Doc said he should be OK for 3-4 days after the last dose. After that the irregular heart beat will kick in and he’ll have the same symptoms as before. However, if he is under stress it could be as little as 24 hours after the last dose.’

‘So, he’s over the 24 hours then, he takes them every morning.’

‘Yup, sorry Sue. We will find him. What did you get off the tape?’

‘I think he woke up about 4pm yesterday, so that’s 3 hours after they were taken. The video was recorded at 10.00 this morning. He thinks they’re still in DC but can’t be sure. He mentioned small airplanes, a brick building; I think he was saying it is similar to the place D went when we were chasing the Staylers. He mentioned lots of children so I guess he’s near a school, pigs- so he must be able to smell them. He also mentioned church bells……………’

‘Church bells at 10.00 on a Wednesday morning?’ Myles asked a little sarcastically, ‘Are you sure?’

Patiently Sue continued. ‘He made the sign for repeat, again so I’m guessing it was a practice session. There are 3 men, white, speaking English. His phone, ID and gun are gone but they are OK at the moment.’

‘You got all that in less than 2 minutes of tape?’ Myles asked, impressed by both Jack and Sue.

Grinning Sue answered ‘I know how he thinks. He used signs, finger spelling and mouthed words as well so I got more information.’

Tara, what you got?’ D asked making notes on the whiteboard.

‘All 4 were recently sent down for armed robbery, we’re running known associates.’ She answered printing off photos of the 4 men and brother Michael.

‘Howie hasn’t heard anything, but he’s putting out the word and will get back to us as soon as he has anything.’ Myles informed them grinning wryly at the memory of his conversation with Howie who appeared even more off the planet than usual.

‘Tara start locally, and work outwards. We’re looking for small airfields near a school and, I guess, near a pig farm if he could smell them. Phone local churches which use bells, see who was practising today. Sue, you and I will go update Ted.'
Walking out the door, Bobby winked and smiled at Tara, causing her to knock a pile of papers on the floor.

Great Clues Jack!!!

Keep it going!

Jill

Wow for your first story I am REALLY impressed! It has a great flow to it and the plot is well thought out and just plain fun! I hope that Jack comes clean with Pete about Sue, because I have a feeling he will try and help them. Can't wait to read your next post!

I'm glad Jack was able to get some clues out. I'm trusting the trustee team to find him - quickly!

whew! caught up! wonderful stuff! Smart move for Jack to sign/mouth info...not too sure about the meds.....

Thanks again for feedback. A quick post before i head for work. Some angst in this was and philosophical discussion

Chapter 12

‘So……. Do you think it will work?’ Pete asked when they were alone.

‘Yeah, if we’re in DC. If not there is a lot of country to search, but the team will see the video and Sue’ll pick up the signs.’

‘You made a good choice recruiting her; she’s a valuable member of an excellent team- the best team in the bureau I think. I wouldn’t go on record with that, but Ted agrees.’

Slightly stunned by this comment but appreciating the sentiment Jack spoke ‘Thank you, Sir. I like to think we do a good job’.

Becoming thoughtful, Pete continued ‘This woman you’re in love with – tell her. You never know how long you’ve got, especially in this job and you never know how long she’s got…………………………..’

Taking a deep breath Jack tried to explain without landing himself in hot water ‘I can’t, it’s complicated……………..’

‘Well, I know you well enough to know she wouldn’t be married, so……………..’ Realisation dawned on him. ‘It’s Sue isn’t it?’

‘Errr…………….what makes you think that?’ Jack asked, swallowing hard.

‘Jack, I may have an office on the top floor and I may be drowning in paperwork but I do have eyes and ears………….I’ve seen you two together, walking the dog, going for lunch……………… you’re more than friends I’m sure of that.’

‘No,…. just friends,…. work colleagues.’ Jack tried to insist, knowing the words sounded pretty lame.

‘But you’re in love with her? ……….. Want to marry her?’

As Jack opened his mouth and looked at the floor Emerald pulled out her love arrow and rammed it deep into the centre of Jack’s heart causing him to clutch his chest and take a deep breath. ‘Yes, sir I am.’
As he spoke he thought ‘What have I done? He’s just told me we are a great team and I’m out of it when this is over.’
Emerald meanwhile was flying madly around the room with a silly grin plastered across her face bouncing off the walls. ‘Well, we’re half-way there, he’s admitted it to himself and told someone else. ALL he needs to do now is tell Sue, now that could be the difficult bit!!!’

‘So why don’t you tell her?’

‘The little matter of the no-dating policy, and I’m not sure she feels the same and if she doesn’t I don’t want to lose her friendship………………………… and I also wonder if she wouldn’t be better off with someone who is deaf and signs. I’ve tried hard to learn ASL but I will never be fluent in her first language and even now I still forget to look at her when I speak and I know that hurts her …………..’

The light flicked on in Emerald’s brain; ‘That’s it! He’s afraid; the policy is just an excuse.’

‘Do you know why the bureau has a no dating policy Jack?

With a heavy heart and shaking his head, which made the pain much worse, Jack answered ‘No, Sir.’

‘Neither do I. Guess it’s been in place for so long no-one can remember when or why. Some offices have thrown it out but Supervisors have to be informed of any relationships and can ask people to leave units if it becomes a problem. I’ve thought of getting rid of it. Would it be an issue if I did?’

‘No, Sir. I’ve never let my feelings get in the way of the job. We all care about each other and we’d all lay our lives down for each other. But if she didn’t feel the same or we split I would be the one to leave, I’d have to leave……………….’

Changing the subject Jack asked how long Pete had been married.

‘We had 20 very happy years.’ He said, his voice drifting off ‘She died 14 years ago.’

Instinctively Jack signed ‘Sorry’ without speaking.

Looking at Pete’s raised eyebrows he explained and Pete continued.
‘It’s OK, I’ve never told anyone before. Sarah and I met in school, grew up together; church, college the whole thing. Married when we were 21, moved around a bit with my job in the FBI, 2 great kids Hannah and David – both married now with children. They all live in DC. About 6 months before she died Sarah was getting tired, clumsy, forgetful – she wouldn’t see a doctor, said it was because she was busy, getting older – she worked part time, helped at the church with the youth, the homeless, breakfast clubs, plus our family life………….. She collapsed one day and they took her to the hospital, ran tests…………… she had a brain tumour- inoperable and a particularly nasty type. Three months later she was dead. She died at home with me and the children, our parents and some close friends. We sang Amazing Grace together- through everything she could still remember hymns and words from the Bible. As we finished she told us she loved us and drifted off into unconsciousness. Two hours later she was dead. Even now I’d give everything for just one more day with her………………… I retire in a little over 2 years and I’m dreading it – work gives me a purpose in life.
We could have had longer together if I’d done things right. I was sure when I was 14 that she was The One but her dad was a judge, her mum a hospital administrator so they were powerful, influential. We weren’t exactly the wrong side of the track but lower down the social scale, although it didn’t affect our friendship, everything I had I had to work very hard for. She was smart, beautiful, kind, caring, I didn’t think I was good enough for her – nothing she ever did or said showed me she thought that it was just my thought processes. She had all the boys chasing her because she was stunning, she didn’t date many of them and they didn’t last long, she was careful about who she would date, you know boys and their hormones. When she was 16 her best friend told me she was interested and I finally plucked up the courage to ask her out. The rest as they say is history, but I will always regret those 2 years………………….. .’

Swallowing hard to stop the tears from falling Jack prayed for wisdom to know what to say. He wasn’t used to people telling him stuff like this, they normally told Sue. ‘OK what would Sue do?’ He wondered. ‘Oh yes. She’d sit with him and hug him. Not sure I can do that.’

Even Emerald had tears in her eyes. Sitting in the silence Jack resolved that when they got out he would tell Sue how he felt. ‘Yes you will buddy because I am here to make sure you do.’ Emerald whispered a little forcefully in his ear. ‘And if you don’t I am going to hit you over the head with my quiver………..’

The silence was broken by Pete ‘You believe in God, Jack?’

A little confused by the question Jack said ‘Yeah, I do. I drifted a bit when I first came to DC but my faith is back on track, settled into a good church – still have a problem with the bad stuff but a certainty that one day good will win. I pray each morning for all of the team including Levi, that God will keep us safe and help us to do our job protecting America and the world………….. Sue and I often pray together. You?’

‘Used to ………………….when Sarah died I stopped going to church. I was so mad with God but didn’t think I could tell him. It wasn’t something I’d been brought up to think you could do; you just accepted things and got with life.’

'I often feel like that, as you know you see and hear a lot of rotten things in this job. We’d closed the slave smuggling racket- it had been a tough case, not just because Bobby’s job was on the line but the sheer inhumanity of the people involved. I was so angry with God, but I thought I was wrong to say so. I talked to Sue about it and something she said hit home. She reminded me that he knows how I’m feeling so I might as well tell him, he sees inside my head. She said ‘you can put a mask on and tell people you’re ok and they won’t see past the mask but God does. Since then I’ve had no problem telling him he often gets both barrels. …………….I have faith in him and the team that we will get out of here.’

‘She’s a wise woman, Miss Thomas………………………..’

As Jack nodded his thoughts drifted to Sue ‘wise, beautiful, smart, kind, patient, strong, determined……………………….’ Jack was still a little stunned that Pete had opened up to him somewhere in America; he really hoped it was DC but even more stunned that he’d admitted to his boss how he felt about Sue.

Hearing Pete’s voice he switched back to reality. ‘So.. what did you sign?’

As Jack explained Pete cut in ‘Pigs?’
‘Yeah, there’s a pig farm nearby, that’s what the smell is. I recognised it from when I was growing up, there was one near us and some days it got pretty ripe.’ He grinned at the memory of chucking his annoying cousin in a pig pen one day,(conveniently forgetting the grounding he got for doing it)!!

Wow. Interesting last post. Loved the insight.

back again. one of the joys of going to work early and working through lunch is that you get off early. hope you enjoy reading this as much as i'm enjoying writing it

Chapter 13

On a fluffy white cloud Charlene called a meeting. ‘OK, what we got?’ she asked. ‘Heck that sounded just like Jack,’ she thought to herself as the cherubs flew in from their various assignments.

Emerald and Sapphire were the first to speak.’ They are in love with each other but are both afraid the other doesn’t feel the same way.’

‘Excellent, now we know you can work on them, time is running out. It’s the auction a week Saturday……………………….’
Turning to Jasper and Onyx she asked about Bobby and Tara, ‘Good work’ she said after they had updated her ‘Things appear to be moving along nicely there. Randy and Eleanor?’
‘At it like rabbits’ their cherubs replied a little crestfallen at what they perceived to be a failure. ‘Don’t worry; I’m sure they deserve each other.’ Charlene told them trying to reassure them. ‘Myles and Lucy?’
‘I think Lucy likes JP from the lab, she’s put in a bid for his date and she gave him a big smile when their paths crossed earlier today.’ Diamond answered.

‘Myles has had a number of bids for his date – one is consistent- a ...........Norah Allbright.’ Opal explained.

‘We’ll need more cherubs for that night. Ruby, Pearl how are things going with your cases?’ ‘He’s started to talk’ Pearl explained. Shaking her head Ruby explained that nothing had changed with her case.

‘Ok ladies, you are all doing really well, just remember romance and love don’t happen in isolation. They occur in the midst of life which at times can be pretty messy.’ Watching them fly away she smiled thinking to herself ‘MMMMM……… not a bad bunch really, great potential………….’


Back at the pen the team updated. ‘We’ve located an area of about 2 square miles which has a school, couple of churches, small airfield and a pig farm. The pastor of one of the churches confirms they were practising this morning. There are a number of brick buildings though. The area is about 1 hour out of central DC. Best I can do I’m afraid’ Tara explained.

‘No, you’ve done a great job’. Bobby reassured her flashing his trademark grin and causing her to blush a little. ‘We’ll get choppers up see if we can narrow it down a bit then get SOG on the case’

‘I’ll go talk to Ted, the rest of you go home. There isn’t much more we can do tonight.’ D told them.

Walking Tara to her car, Bobby suggested going for dinner. ‘We both need a break……….’ Her eyes lighting up at the thought of another evening with Bobby Tara readily agreed and their cherubs flew a few more cartwheels of delight.

Sitting in the room, leaning against the wall, Jack could feel his heart beginning to beat irregularly and his neck begin to stiffen. Rubbing the back of his neck he prayed that the team would find them in time.
‘You OK there, Jack?’ Pete asked.
Trying to keep the concern out of his voice, he tried to make a joke of it. ‘Yeah, just got a crick in my neck, must have slept funny. Can’t understand why, I usually sleep so well on a concrete floor!!’

Chapter 14

The following morning the kidnappers fetched Pete and Jack to read a statement. As Pete read it Jack signed to Sue.
They want the 4 prisoners released from their prison in Kansas and taken to a meeting point in DC where they will be exchanged for Pete and Jack at 3PM the following day. They give a phone number for the authorities to ring when they arrive and if there are any problems both Jack and Pete will be killed………………

Watching the video later Myles commented on the stupidity of the kidnappers. ‘They really think we’re going to let them go? Just proves my point that the average ne’er do well is basically stupid.’

‘But they don’t know we know where they are.’ D pointed out, a big smile across his face.

‘We do?’ Sue asked hopefully.

‘Yeah, we’ve narrowed it down to 3 buildings. SOG are moving on them all. There’s no sign of a van so we’re guessing it’s inside somewhere.’ Bobby answered.

‘So why can’t we take them down now?’ Luce asked.

‘Too dangerous, we don’t know which building and if we move too soon they could kill them.’ Tara explained.

‘Guys we may need to move soon, I’ve watched the tape- Jack’s in trouble.’ Sue stated trying to keep the panic out of her voice. As they gathered around the screen she continued. ‘He’s pointed to his heart, signed ‘pain’ and ‘bad’. He said he forgot his tablet Tuesday morning. Look he’s rubbing his neck and shoulders and he looks much worse than yesterday. ‘

‘He was rubbing his neck and shoulders like that the day he had his attack……………….. ‘ Tara reflected, vividly remembering the visit to the hospital that night.

‘Just what he needs, to be kidnapped on the day he forgets his medication.’ Myles commented distractedly.

Nostrils flaring and eyes blazing Lucy laid into him. ‘I hardly think he got up and thought ‘oh, I’m going to be kidnapped today, I won’t take my tablet………………..’

Reading her lips, Sue looked heavenward wondering why she was again stuck in the middle of their ongoing disagreement. Calling Levi she walked out of the pen struggling to stop her tears from falling.

Seeing Luce move to follow her, D told her firmly to stay where she was. ‘She doesn’t need you Luce. Myles you go.’

Striding purposefully out of the pen, Myles walked down to the Memorial Room where he saw Sue sitting on the floor in a corner, knees drawn up and arms wrapped around them, tears pouring down her face.
Sitting on the floor beside her he pulled her close and held her tight until the tears stopped. Continuing to hold her he waited for her to speak.

‘How did you know I was here?’
Gently wiping her face he explained ‘It’s the only place in this building anyone can get any peace and quiet. And you and Jack think alike, this is where he comes when he’s worried about you………. To think, pray, just to have some time alone. He doesn’t know I know so I’d like it to remain our secret please Thomas.’

‘Sorry about the tears, must be PMT.’ she said. Looking at his blank face she continued. ‘You know, hormones, time of the month………………’
Thinking back he remembered ‘Oh, yes..... ,with Anne I was never sure whether it was before, during or after…………. Either way it was like living in a war zone. But I think you are being less than truthful with me, Sue. This isn’t PMT it’s MJT’

‘Did I read that right?’ she asked ‘MJT?’

Nodding Myles quietly explained ‘Missing Jack Tension. We know you’re worried, we all are. We also know you’re in love with him and have been for a very long time. We also know that he feels the same way. In fact the only people in this entire building who don’t seem to realise this are you two. We will bring him back, Sue I promise.’

‘Smiling she signed ‘Thank you Myles.’ and said ‘You know, I like this Myles, the kind, gentle, sensitive Myles. It would be nice to see more of him in the pen……………’

‘I don’t think our fellow workers are ready for that!! Now, I don’t know about you but I need coffee and a sugar fix. How about you go freshen up and we’ll walk Wonder Dog to the nearest coffee shop and buy coffee, muffins and donuts for everyone? My treat.’

‘Sounds good, Myles, Thank you, you’re a good friend, you know that don’t you?’

‘I know I wasn’t at first and I regret that Sue, I could have been much kinder to you when you started.’

Placing a hand on his arm Sue told him he was forgiven ‘a long time ago, forgive yourself Myles, please.’

Returning to the bureau loaded with pastries and coffee, Sue asked Myles to take them to the pen; ‘I need to go to the cafeteria, not sure why, just a feeling I have……………..’

Walking into the cafeteria, Sue saw Pete’s secretary, Martha. Martha is in her late 40’s and has been working as Pete’s secretary since he became the Director. Sitting opposite her she noticed she’d been crying. Placing a hand on her arm Sue asked ‘how are you doing?’

‘Not great, he’s a good boss and a great friend. I’m praying and hoping. How’s the team holding out?’

‘Praying and working hard to find them, which we will…………….’

‘I don’t know what I’ll do if he’s killed, he was so good to me when I was going through a tough time………………..’
As Martha stopped talking, Sue nodded, inviting her to continue if she wishes.
‘………….My husband started drinking, gambling, ran up thousands of dollars of debt……….. if I said anything he’d lose his temper. Some times it was verbal abuse, other times he’d hit me…………….. Pete helped out financially, with the divorce, somewhere to live, legal stuff, a shoulder to cry on. He knows what it’s like to be on your own, since his wife died. He’s definitely one of the good guys…………..’

Squeezing Martha’s arm Sue stated confidently ‘we will find them, we have to …………. There are things I need to tell Jack, things I should have said a long time ago………………

Walking back to the pen later she prayed for the opportunity to tell him. ‘God, please look after him.’

Chapter 15

Standing in front of the whiteboard the following morning and pointing as he spoke, Bobby ran through the plan. SOG are on all 3 buildings, they will contact us when the van leaves. We’re setting up road blocks here, here and here so which ever way they leave they will travel along this road here, travelling in this direction. D you will be here and you will radio through when the van passes you, then follow it. Myles and I will be in the truck at these lights, as the van approaches we’ll turn the lights red and, along with SWAT, will raid it. Tara I want you and Sue in the surveillance van here. When we have them you call for an ambulance. They won’t wait around long at the meet so I guess they will leave at about 1.30 but we need to be in position at 12.00. Any questions?’

‘Why can’t we take them at their hideout?’ Luce asked, desperate to get Jack out and to a doctor.

‘If we do, there’s a risk they could shoot Jack or the Director. This way they will be in the front of the van, Jack and the Director will be in the back and we can nail them before they have a chance to shoot. If Jack’s heart is bad, he won’t have a chance to run. This is the safest option’ D told her. Looking over at Sue he thought ‘I made her a promise and I am going to keep it.’

With the tension in the pen, the cherubs look on, unable to take action. In Randy’s office, however things are very different and it’s hotter than when Troy and Charlie turned up the heating and nearly roasted him.

At 1.45 Bobby received a call to say that the van had left; ‘3 men in the front, 2 in the back’ he told the teams.

‘Give them ½ hour in case they go back then get a team in’ he ordered SOG.

At 2.15 D radioed through ‘just gone past, I’m on their tail.’

At 2.20 the van stopped at the lights and SWAT and the team piled out to arrest them.
Wrenching the van door open, Bobby saw Jack lying unconscious on the floor of the van, the Director sitting beside him. ‘Tara, call 911’ he barked.

As Tara made the call Sue jumped out of the surveillance van and into the black van. Sitting Jack up with Bobby’s help she sat beside him and hugged him tight talking as she did so. ‘Jack, hang in there, ambulance is on its way. Stay with me Jack, we need to talk, don’t you dare leave me………………….’
Watching them Bobby asked what happened.
‘We’d been in the van about 10 minutes and he just went down, I couldn’t rouse him. He kept telling me you’d be here in time. I’m just relieved he was right – Thanks guys’.

Leaving Sue in the van with Jack, Bobby and Pete climbed out and watched SWAT take the kidnappers away. Hearing the ambulance Bobby waved at Sue. ‘Ambulance is here, how’s he doin?’

Still out of it, pulse and breathing are racing.’

Picking up on her concern, Bobby tried to reassure her. ‘He’s tough, sheila, he’ll be OK.’

Looking on, concern etched on their cherubic faces Emerald and Sapphire hoped and prayed he was right. ‘We could have done all that work for nothing.’ Emerald said sadly ‘and they do look good together, even if he is out of it.’

As Jack was loaded into the ambulance 30 minutes later, although to those watching it felt like a lifetime, D told Sue to go with him ‘………..and you Sir, you need to be checked over. We’ll catch up with you at the hospital.’

‘Jack Hudson FBI Agent, kidnapped 4 days ago, history of arrhythmia, last took his medication the day before he was taken. Very little to eat or drink since being taken. BP 200/130, pulse 140, respirations 40. Unconscious on arrival at the scene, and still out of it. Oxygen and fluids up and we’ve taken an EKG’ .The paramedic barked at the doctor as Jack was wheeled into the ER, passing him the EKG reading as he spoke. Watching as Jack was taken to the resus room, Sue did the only thing she could – prayed.

Sitting beside him when the doc had finished, Sue took his hand and kept talking to him. As she talked, Sapphire whispered in her ear ‘Tell him you love him Sue, practice while he’s out of it, it’ll be easier then when he’s awake………………...’

Catching some movement out of the corner of her eye she looked up to see Pete and the team walk in. ‘How’s he doing?’ Pete asked.

‘A waiting game but the doc’s confident he’ll make a full recovery. How are you, Sir?’

I’m good, they ran some checks and I’m good to go. Martha’s coming to pick me up. Anything you need?’

Shaking her head, Sue explained that she would stay with Jack ‘There are a few things we need to talk about. They’re gonna move him to a proper room soon.’

‘Thank you to all of you for your work over the last few days, Jack was confident you would find us.’ Pete told them looking at all of them then shook their hands. ‘I’ll come and see Jack when he’s awake.’

As the team left, Pete stopped and closed the door ‘When he wakes up, tell him the policy is history, he’ll know what I mean.’

Confused Sue nodded while Emerald and Sapphire hugged each other and whooped and cheered in delight.

Woot! The policy is history!! I think Pete just figured out who Jack was dreaming about. Nothing like a good kidnapping to change your persepctive.

Positively loving this story.
thanks,
Terie

Wake up Jack! The rest of your life is about to begin!