Powerful writing Em. I was glad to see an aggressive Sue take Nela down but now I'm concerned for her health. Fortunately Jack is there. Man, shooting into an unsuspecting crowd - I bet there was chaos at that dance!

Didn't see that coming. Go Sue!! Now Jack can look after her, yay He is going to look after her, right Em??

Wow. What a quick turn of events. Jack had better stick close to Sue!

Hey guys! I'm just waiting for STFBE to come on (can you believe it's on 4 times a week where I live?) and I thought I'd post the next little bit. I have the rest of the weekend off so I might be able to post twice tomorrow or maybe I can even post a little more later tonight. We'll see...

Enjoy,
Em

***********

Jack pulled into the emergency bay and turned to Sue. She didn’t move. He reached a hand over and lightly brushed her cheek and her eyes fluttered open. She looked at him.
“We’re here.” He said and he jumped out of the car, running around to her side.
Sue sat up and opened the door, wincing at the strain in her arm.
“Whoa.” Jack said as he pulled the door and placed a hand on her back. “Let me help you.” He said and he held on to Sue as she slowly got out of the SUV.
He didn’t like how the towel wrapped around her arm was already soaked through with blood. He held on to her left arm and kept a hand on her back as they walked into the ER.
They were taken to a room amazingly quick. Maybe because Jack was flashing his badge, saying they were FBI, but Sue was too grateful and tired to think about it. She was just glad to be able to sit again.
Standing next to Sue, who was sitting on the bed, Jack watched anxiously as the Dr. examined her arm.
“Well, Miss Thomas, this is quite a gash.” He said as he gently unwrapped her arm. “It looks like a pretty clean wound. The bullet didn’t hit any nerves but it did tear some muscle and just missed your bone. You were lucky.”
Sue looked up at Jack and as he met her eyes, he smiled.
No kidding. He thought, placing his hand on her shoulder as the doctor touched her wound and she winced, turning back to him.
“We’ll get this cleaned up and give you something for the pain before we stitch you up.” He said.
“No.” Sue said and both Jack and the doctor looked down at her with surprise. “I don’t want drugs.” She said and looked at Jack.
“Sue...” He started.
“I don’t need them.” She said and before Jack could argue. She turned back to the doctor. “Just stitch me up so we can go.” She said and the doctor nodded, leaving to go get the supplies he needed.
“Are you sure you don’t want something? I know it hurts.” Jack asked.
Sue nodded. “They knock me out.” She explained. “Fast.”
“That’s ok.” Jack assured her with a smile. “You need sleep anyway.”
Sue shook her head. “Not here. Plus everyone is meeting back at the hotel to go over what happened tonight.”
“They’ll understand.” Jack said.
“I know.” Sue nodded. “But I’d rather just get this over with and go back to the hotel.”
“I’d take you back to the hotel.” He promised her and she smiled at him.
“You’d have to carry me.” She said and then laughed when Jack shrugged his shoulders.
“So.” He said seriously.
“From here, out to the car, then into the hotel and up to my room. And then somehow I’d have to get cleaned up, change out of this dress, and get into bed.” She said and before Jack could make whatever comment he was going to make with the eager grin on his face, Sue finished. “I’m not having the drugs.”
They both looked at the door when the doctor walked back in.
“Ok. Let’s get this closed.” He said. “Are you ready?” He asked Sue and she nodded and turned to look at Jack.
He reached down and grabbed her hand when she winced as the doctor began and she smiled up at him gratefully. Sue then let her eyes roam over him, needing to concentrate on something other than the pain. Sometime between being at the country club and now he had lost his apron and his tie. His vest was unbuttoned and his shirt sleeves were rolled up, exposing his beautiful, impressive arms. She secretly loved it when he did that.
“I got blood on your shirt.” She said absently when she noticed the red stains.
Jack looked away from Sue’s face to his shirt and he reached up and touched the red marks. He nodded and then met her eyes.
“And it was my favorite one.” He said seriously and Sue smiled.
“Don’t you have like ten other white shirts just like it?” She asked.
“Yes.” He said defensively. “But this was the best one.”
“I’m sorry.” Sue was trying not to laugh.
Jack let out an exaggerated sigh. “It’s ok.” He said and then he smiled at Sue and she rolled her eyes.
When the doctor was done Sue looked down at her sutures.
“I’m going to have a scar.” She said sadly and then looked up at Jack, who was examining her stitches.
“Yeah.” He said. “It’s going to be pretty sexy.” He smiled when Sue hit him in the chest. “What?”
Sue just smirked at him and shook her head.
A nurse came in and gently wrapped Sue’s arm with gauze, showing Jack how it needed to be done.
“The doctor has written you a prescription for pain killer. Just in case.” She said with a smile. “You can pick it up at the hospital pharmacy on your way out.”
The nurse then handed Sue a clip board holding papers. “As soon as you sign these you are free to go. You lost a good amount of blood so you’re going to need to eat something and drink lots of fluids. Your arm is going to be extremely sore and tender for the next few days, so remember to take it easy.” The nurse turned to Jack. “Make sure she doesn’t over do it and that she takes care of her arm properly. She’s going to need you to help her clean it and wrap it.”
“I will.” Jack nodded and Sue handed the nurse back the clip board.
The nurse then gave Jack a bag with bandages and ointment for Sue’s arm.
Sue stood. “Let’s get out of here.” She said and Jack kept his hand on the small of her back as he walked her to the car, insisting that they stop at the pharmacy on the way out.
“Just in case.” He said when she tried to argue.

Cute little flirting between the two. Wow, Sue is brave. My weak stomach had me nearly puking and I wasn't the one getting stitched up!

When Jack and Sue got back to the hotel the team was already there with pizza.
Lucy stood as soon as they entered the room. “Sue, are you ok? How is your arm?”
“I’m fine.” Sue assured her. “It doesn’t even hurt.” She lied and they all smiled, knowing that she was lying. “I got about a million stitches.” She said proudly.
“Oo. Can we see?” Bobby asked excitedly as he moved to stand by Sue.
Sue smiled and shrugged with her left shoulder. “Sure. Help me get the gauze off. I need to wash my arm anyway.” She said and Bobby carefully helped her remove the bandage.
Jack stood by, anxiously watching, and when she flinched as they pulled off the last layer he visibly stiffened.
“Nice.” Bobby said with awe and the others took a look, all voicing their approval. They were fine stitches.
Bobby examined her arm closer and then with a nod he said, “That’s going to be a sexy scar.”
Sue turned to Jack, who was smiling.
“I told you.” He told her smugly.
She just smiled and shook her head.
“Ok. I have to go get out of this dress and clean off this blood.” She said when Bobby sat back down and she walked past the others. “I’ll be right back. Don’t eat all the pizza.”
They laughed and turned to Jack.
“You should go change too.” Tara said, motioning to the blood on his shirt.
“Yeah.” He said and he pulled at the stiff material. He then pointed at the pizza. “Save me some of that too.” He turned to his room.
“If you’re lucky.” Lucy yelled after him.

Sue slowly pealed the ruined dress from her body and threw it over the shower curtain rod. She leaned against the bathroom counter and let out a long, slow breath as she studied her reflection. She couldn’t believe how bad her arm was hurting. It throbbed. It burned. It stung.
“It better be a sexy scar.” She whispered with irritation.
She turned on the hot water, wetting a towel, and slowly wiped the blood from her body. She took another breath and gently cleaned around her stitches, reaching up to wipe a rebel tear the was trickling down her cheek.
“Ow.” She moaned.
She rinsed out the towel and hung it next to her dress and walked into her room. She pulled on a pair of red gauchos and then stood, holding her white tank top, trying to figure out the safest way to get into it. Finally deciding that over her legs was the best way, she carefully put it on.
She tiredly walked back into the bathroom, washed her face, and pulled the clips from her hair, letting it fall in soft curls down her back. She ran a hand over her eyes and then looked in the mirror.
“Ok. Toughen up.” She said and then forced herself to do so just as Levi walked into the bathroom.
“Hey boy.” She said as she reached down, scratching his head. “Did they send you in to get me?” She asked and then followed him out.

“We thought we better send Levi in to get you before Jack eats all the pizza.” D explained when Sue walked through the door behind Levi.
She turned to Jack, who was finishing his third piece, and he rolled his eyes.
“There’s plenty.” He said and held up a plate with a slice of plain cheese for her.
She walked over and sat down next to him on the couch as he handed her the plate.
“Mmm. Thank you.” She said and she took a savoring bite.
“So what happened tonight?” Myles asked. “I understood that this barbarous attack wasn’t suppose to occur until next week.”
Sue nodded. “That’s what we were told. But tonight at the ball I saw Nela and Ramone talking and I saw Ramone say that once their precious kids were gone, the parents would be so much easier to take care of. No one would expect an attack on mourning parents.” She said as she put her empty plate down on the coffee table.
She then turned on the couch so that her left shoulder rested on the back of it and she drew her legs up, bending them at the knee so that they also rested on the large cushions. Jack sat behind her, relaxing against the cushions, his left arm draped across the back of the couch.
Sue continued. “That’s when I turned on my mic and let you guys know it was them. I moved to get closer and that’s when I saw Nela say, ‘Are you ready?’. Ramone nodded and she said, ‘Let’s do it.’ and Ramone moved away and then I saw Nela pull out a gun. Luckily you guys were quick.” She finished.
“Whatever.” Lucy said. “Everyone’s lucky you were quick. You hit her like a line backer right as she pulled the trigger. If you hadn’t done that someone would have been shot.” Lucy’s eyes were wide with excitement until she realized what she had just said and her face turned sheepish.
“Hey.” Sue said defensively and pointed at her arm causing everyone to laugh.
Lucy laughed apologetically.
“You know what I mean. You should have seen her.” She said to the rest of the group. “She barely even flinched when the bullet hit her.”
Lucy was getting excited again and Sue leaned her head to the side, where it came to rest on Jack’s biceps instead of the couch like she had expected, but neither of them moved.
“I don’t know how you got the gun away and had her pinned to the ground so fast.” Lucy finished with amazement.
“Bobby taught me that.” Sue said, motioning to Bobby, who sat up straighter and smiled proudly.
Jack shifted behind her, unconsciously getting closer to Sue and she turned so that she could see his lips without lifting her head from his arm.
“Bobby taught you that? When?” He asked with surprise.
“This one time when we were waiting for an informant to show up.” She answered with a shrug.
“I remember that.” Tara said with a laugh and Sue and Bobby joined in.
“She’s got quite a hit. You should have seen the bruises.” Bobby nodded.
“I’m just glad Nela’s smaller than Bobby. It took me three tries to pin him and I wasn’t even shot.” She said and everyone cracked up.
“Well you were amazing.” D said. “Good job.”
“Thanks.” Sue said. “I’m just glad you were all there.” She sighed with relief.
They all understood. She couldn’t have stopped the early attack alone and they all knew that if they hadn’t been there she would have most likely been killed along with everyone else. In the somber silence Jack’s hand slid from the back of the couch to rest on Sue’s knee.
“So did Nela and Ramone say anything?” She asked. “Do we know why the attack was moved up?”
D shook his head. “We figure they just got anxious and couldn’t wait. They’re both young and hot tempered. We did learn that their parents know each other and have been involved in a few minor terrorist acts, using alias’s, which is why we didn’t catch it sooner. We have authorities picking them up as we speak and they’ll all be questioned tomorrow. Our parts done.” He said with a smile.
“To another successful capture.” Myles said and he raised his glass, followed by the rest of the team.
“Here, here.” They chorused and drank.
“All right people.” D said as he stood. “I know we’re all tired and want to get home.”
They all stood, cleaned up, and gathered their stuff.
“Stay here tonight. There’s no use packing all your stuff and heading home this late.” D said to Bobby, Sue, and Jack. He turned to Sue. “Get some sleep. I know you need it.”
“I will.” She said.
“Do you want me to take Levi home?” Lucy asked Sue and Levi rested his head by Sue’s hip.
“No. He’s ok.” She said as she carefully stoked his head with her injured arm. “I’ve missed him.”
Lucy nodded with a smile. “I’ll see you at home tomorrow.” She said and followed Myles, D, and Tara out the door, glancing one last time at how Jack had Sue securely tucked into his side.
She smiled at Tara, who returned it with a knowing look and they both laughed when D turned to Myles.
“I told you he wouldn’t be able to keep his hands off her. You owe me twenty bucks.” He said.
Myles shook his head and when he saw Lucy and Tara’s curious looks he shrugged.
“I thought he’d at least have the decency to wait until we all left.” He said as he handed D a twenty.
He put it in his pocket smugly. They all laughed as they entered the elevator.

Sue sat up and looked from Levi to her arm and then to Jack.
“What’s wrong?” He asked with concern.
She shook her head. “I’m sorry. I can’t decide if I should take Levi out and then bandage my arm or bandage my arm and then take Levi out.”
Jack smiled. “How about I bandage your arm.” He turned to Bobby. “And Bobby takes Levi out.”
Levi barked and all three smiled.
“Levi’s ok with that.” She looked at Bobby. “Would you mind?” She asked and he stood.
“Not at all.” He said and grabbed Levi’s leash. “Come on buddy.” Levi was instantly at his side.
Sue and Jack stood.
“Thank you.” Sue said as Bobby opened the door. “Just send him through when you get back.”
“No problem.” Bobby said and then looked down at Levi. “Let’s make this quick. I’m tired.” He said as he shut the door.
“The stuff is in my room.” Sue said and she motioned for Jack to follow her.

Once in the bathroom, Sue handed the bag of supplies to Jack and then sat sideways on the counter, moving her hair so that it draped over shoulder, away from her wound. Jack took the ointment, a q-tip, and the bandage out of the bag and placed them on the counter.
“Ok. Are you ready?” He asked as he lightly took her elbow.
Sue nodded and Jack softly applied the cream over her stitches as Sue watched.
“There.” He said when he was done and he reached for the bandage and then looked around for a second. “Do you have any scissors I can use to cut this?” He asked.
“Yeah.” Sue said and she turned forward on the counter, her legs dangling over the edge, and she reached for a small carrying case.
She winced as she tried to lift it and Jack quickly grabbed it from her.
“Easy.” He said and he held it open in front of her while she looked through it, finding a pair of cuticle scissors and she handed them to him as Jack sat down the bag.
“Wow. The tiniest scissors in the world.” He said and Sue laughed as she watched him awkwardly use the tiny scissors to cut the gauze. “Shut up.” He said with a smile and she laughed harder.
When he was done he looked up proudly and sat the scissors down. Sue nodded at him with approval.
He moved to stand in front of her, consequently ending up between her legs where he froze, unwilling and unable to move. For a strained second they stared into each others eyes until Sue slowly lifted her arm for him and Jack carefully began to wrap her wound, securing it when he was finished.
When Jack didn’t move or look away from her arm for a minute, Sue reached out and caressed his forearm.
“Hey.” She said and Jack looked up into her eyes. “Are you ok?”
“I’m suppose to ask you that.” He said with a smile that did not reach his incredible eyes.
“What’s wrong?” Sue asked.
Jack looked back to her arm and with a sign he dropped his hands from where they had still been holding it, unconsciously placing them on her thighs. When he looked back into her eyes Sue was overpowered by the emotion she could see there.
“I was so scared tonight.” He whispered. “When I heard the gun shot and I saw you go down...” Jack couldn’t finish so he simply shook his head.
Sue’s eyes filled with tears that did not fall and she reached up, tenderly cupping Jack’s jaw.
“I’m ok.” She said softly and Jack closed his eyes.
“But you almost weren’t.” He said, his hands gripping under her knees.
“Jack...” She whispered and she leaned forward until her forehead rested against his.
“I almost lost you.” He tugged her knees forward until her chest met his. “I almost lost you.” His voice was choked as he captured her lips with his and his hands grasped her hips.
Sue’s right hand clutched Jack’s elbow and her other hand moved from his jaw to the back of his head, where her fingers tangled in his hair and she kissed him back with the same hunger and passion he was kissing her with. Sue felt a moan escape Jack’s lips and the kiss intensified when she wrapped her legs around his waist, wanting, needing to be closer.
Jack moved his hands from Sue’s hips to beneath her thighs and he swiftly lifted her from the counter and without giving up her lips he somehow made it out of the bathroom and to the bed where he tumbled backwards, Sue landing roughly on top of him.
“Ow.” He heard her gasp as her lips were ripped from his and his eyes snapped open.
Her eyes were shut tightly and she took a deep breath. Jack reached up and softly brushed the hair away from her eyes until she opened them and they both got their breathing under control.
“I’m sorry.” He apologized with a concerned expression, his voice still husky.
Sue’s eyes shined as she looked down on him. His face was only inches away.
“Don’t be.” She said. “I forgot I was hurt.”
A smile crept on to her face and Jack couldn’t help but smile back. He’d forgotten too. She lowered her lips to his again, his hands creeping up her back and just before they touched they felt the bed bounce and both turned to see Levi with his front paws on the bed, looking at them curiously.
Sue groaned and rolled off Jack to her back and she reached to stoke Levi’s head.
Jack sat up, trying to reign in his raging desire. When he felt like he could, he turned his head to look down at Sue. Big mistake. She lay there, her left arm thrown over her head, causing her tank top to ride up, exposing her irresistible stomach. She slowly turned her head and looked up at him. As their eyes met Jack felt his heart start to race again when he saw her eyes darken and she bit her bottom lip sensually.
“Hey Sparky!” Jack’s head jerked toward the living room area of Sue’s suite and Sue understood instantly.
Bobby.
She sat up when Jack stood and made his way toward the door as Bobby appeared, holding the prescription bag with Sue’s pain killers.
“Thought you might need these.” He said and held them up to Sue, walking toward her.
“Thank you.” She said as she stood to take them from Bobby, smiling when she cast a quick glance at Jack, who hadn’t moved since Bobby entered the room, and didn’t seem to know what to do.
She turned back to Bobby, who looked curiously between her and Jack, and a smug smile appeared on his face. Biting her lip to keep from laughing, she watched Bobby turn and throw an arm around Jack.
“Come on mate.” He said, thoroughly entertained. “We need to let this shelia get some much needed sleep.” He ushered Jack out of Sue’s room.
“Hey Jack!” Sue called and Jack stuck his head back around the corner.
Sue reached up and brushed down the hair on the back of her head and when Jack reached up, mirroring her action, he became away that his hair, the hair that Sue had been clutching while they made out, was sticking straight up. He attempted to smooth it down.
When Sue signed, “Sorry.” with a quiet smile he flashed her a defeated smile and followed Bobby back to their suite.
Sue took a deep breath and looked down at Levi.
“Whoa.” Was all she could say.

Whoa indeed!!!! WOW, you sure write fuzzies well!!!!

Great long post!!!

Jen

'whoa' is about all i'm capable of saying too

i could kill bobby though, i'm sure sue would heal a whole lot quicker if she woke up in Jack's arms

cath

I knew that Jack taking care of Sue will merit some results...

Wow, that was completely fuzzilicious Em!

Yay, fuzzies!! Well done Jack, it's about time!

Great post Em

“Ok. What’s going on?” Lucy asked after she finally got Sue’s attention the next night.
It was Sunday and they were just lounging around the apartment.
“What do you mean?” Sue asked.
Lucy shot her a ‘don't play with me’ look and said, “You started reading that book an hour ago but I have yet to see you turn a page. You weren’t even looking at it. You were staring off into space.” Lucy explained animatedly.
“I was not.” Sue said defensively. “I was reading.”
“Oh really? What’s the book about?” Lucy challenged.
Yeah. Sue didn’t know. She glanced down at the book “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and then back up at Lucy.
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s?” She asked with a hopeful raise of her eyebrows.
“Uh huh.” Lucy nodded victoriously. “What’s going on?” She asked again and, with a sigh, Sue threw down the useless book.
“You have to promise not to freak out.” She said and Lucy’s eyes got big.
“Why? What happened?” Lucy asked excitedly.
“Promise me.” Sue pressed.
Lucy rolled her eyes. “Ok. I promise.”
Sue took a deep breath.
“Jack kissed me.” She said evenly.
“What?!” Lucy shrieked and shot off the couch.
“Lucy!” Sue said accusingly.
“Sorry.” Lucy shook her head and sat back down. “What?” She asked calmly and then she smiled. “When? Where? Why? How?”
Sue could tell she was getting worked back up.
“Yesterday.” She answered and then added hesitantly, “And again last night.”
Lucy’s eyes got big and Sue could tell it was killing her not to freak out.
“Ok.” Lucy said as she adjusted her position on the couch, getting comfortable. “I want all the girlie details. Don’t leave anything out and I want you to start at the very beginning.”
Sue smiled at Lucy’s excitement and began.
“Yesterday morning after you all left, Jack walked me down to the lobby where I was meeting the Sigma Gamas. Before they got there we were talking.” She paused and smiled shyly. “And flirting a little, when I saw them come in. We had just decided that the team was going to be at the ball so I knew that they couldn't see Jack. He had his back to them but they saw me with him.” She looked down, almost embarrassed to say the next part. “So I reached up and put my hand behind his neck, blocking our lips, and I whispered next to his mouth that they had seen us, were on their way over, and that he needed to go.”
When she looked back up Lucy was smiling with girlish pride and Sue smiled back.
“The only way he could get away without being seen was to go back into the elevator, not turning around until the doors closed. So he kissed me, walked me backwards into the elevator, and we kissed until the doors closed and the elevator started to move. He got out at the next floor and then I went back to the lobby.” Sue finished.
“And how was it?” Lucy asked with delight.
Sue smiled at the memory.
“Just like I remembered. Sweet, but strong, and passionate.” She said, repeating what she’d told Lucy about their last kiss during the Callahan/Merced case. “Left me wanting more.” She paused. “Almost unsatisfying because I knew it was a response to a situation. You know? An undercover reaction.”
Lucy was nodding with understanding. “An effective way out of a tight spot.”
“Exactly.” Sue said. “Amazing. But not a ‘real kiss’.”
“Right.” Lucy said with a nod. But an amazing kiss is still an amazing kiss. She saw how Jack acted after the last one. The same way he was acting last night. Not obvious, but clearly effected. She thought secretly.
“But then last night...” Lucy refocused her attention when Sue went on. “We were in my bathroom after everyone left and he was helping me bandage my arm while Bobby took Levi out.”
Sue’s whole face lit up and she paused, causing Lucy to laugh, knowing that this was the good part.
“All the girlie details.” She reminded Sue, who nodded with an accepting smile.
“I was sitting on the bathroom counter and Jack was standing between my legs so that the insides of my knees were touching his waist and our eyes were level.” Sue explained and Lucy just nodded excitedly. “When he was done with my arm he just kind of stood there and I could tell there was something wrong. So I asked if he was ok. He told me that he was scared when he heard the gun shot and saw me go down. Luce, he was so...” Sue couldn’t think of a word to describe him but she could tell by the look on Lucy’s face that she understood. “I had to touch him, to reassure him that I was ok. So I reached up and cupped his jaw. The next thing I know he’d pulled my legs until my chest was against his and he kissed me.”
“Oh.” Lucy signed happily, thinking this kiss was the same sweet, passionate kiss as before.
Until she saw Sue’s expression.
“No.” Sue said, shaking her head and she smiled as she watched Lucy’s eyes get big.
“He kissed me.” She emphasized ‘kissed’ and saw the realization dawn on Lucy’s face.
Sue smiled brilliantly.
“It was raw, and hungry, and hot.” She shook her head. “I can’t even describe it. It was like nothing I’ve ever felt before and I couldn’t get enough. I couldn’t get close enough. I wrapped my legs around his waist and he lifted me off the counter and somehow made it into my bedroom, where he fell backwards onto the bed. When we landed I must have hit my arm because this horrible pain shot through it and I must have yelled because our lips broke apart, and, once the pain lessened, Levi had shown up and so I got off Jack and before we got going again Bobby brought over my pain killers.” Sue smiled with embarrassment. “I’m pretty sure he figured out what was going on. He dragged Jack away so that I could sleep.” She finished.
Lucy was stunned.
“Whoa.” She said with a triumphant smile, her eyes unbelievably wide.
“I know.” Sue said with a nod and a frustrated sigh.
“So what’s wrong?” Lucy asked, confused.
“I just don’t know what to do.” Sue ran a hand over her eyes. “I’ve been with guys, and I’ve wanted guys.” She said. “But I have never wanted someone like I want Jack. And it’s not just that.” She groaned. “I need him.”
“And?” Lucy said, still a little confused.
“And how am I suppose to work with him everyday after experiencing that?”
“How did you both act this morning?” Lucy asked.
Sue shrugged. “Normal. Like we always act.”
“Then you just have to do what you did today.” Lucy said matter of factly.
Sue nodded with determination and then her face cracked and she threw her head onto the arm rest of the couch
“But I just want to pounce on him!” She cried and when she looked back at Lucy they both burst out laughing.
When they had calmed down, Sue turned to Lucy with a serious face.
“What if he’s not feeling the same? What if he doesn’t feel this overwhelming, all consuming love that I feel? He hasn’t done or said anything since I almost went to New York. What if this was just some sort of relieved, caught in the moment reaction because I didn’t die and it didn’t really mean anything?” She asked.
Lucy smiled. Not possible. She thought and then said, “We’ll just have to find out.”
Sue returned the smile. Lucy knew something.

“I win.” Bobby cheered. “That’s the third game in a row, Sparky. What gives?”
“Sorry.” Jack said with a shake of the head as he rolled the balls back to Bobby, who proceeded to rack them up for the next game. “I’ve got a lot on my mind.”
Bobby smiled knowingly. “Does it have anything to do with what I almost walked in on last night?” He asked and Jack gave him a defensive look and then sighed.
“Yes.” He admitted.
Jack leaned his cue stick against the table and gripped the edges with his hands, bending over at the hip.
Bobby nodded. “What are you going to do about it?”
Jack was silent.
“Listen.” Bobby said. “I know you care about her more than you’ve even admitted to me. I know that you loved making out with her in dragon ladies office.”
Jack shot him a challenging look, which Bobby shot back. “You were making out.” Jack surrendered and lowered his head again.
Bobby continued. “I know you’re fiercely protective and territorial when it comes to her.” He was surprised when Jack didn’t dispute that. “And I know it almost killed you when she was going to go to New York.”
Jack looked up, meeting his eyes.
“So I guess the questions are: How much do you care about her? How much do you want her? And how much do you want to be with her?”
“More than my next breath. I love her, Bobby. With everything I am, I love her.” Jack finally answered passionately.
Bobby smiled and nodded. He already knew that.
He repeated his previous question. “So what are you going to do about it?”
“I don’t know.” Jack admitted as he again hung his head. “What if Sue doesn’t feel the same way?”
“You better find out.” Bobby told him. What the rest of us already know. He added silently. “Your turn to break.”

that was a great post, looking forward to lots more fuzzies

cath

that was FANTASTIC!!! Talk about steamy! I love that they've finally admitted their feelings to other people, now let's move on to each other! I think they should just plant one on each other the next time they come face to face! It could be fun! Loving the story Em!

Now that they've admitted their feelings to their best friends, maybe they can admit them to each other???? Great posts Em, so fuzzy and FAB!!!!

Jen

oh my.... I'm sure Jack wants the same!!

Thanks for the feed back guys! I hope you're all having a great weekend! Here's a little more before I head out to play!

Em

**********

“Levi. Get Sue.” Lucy said the next morning as she glanced at her watch.
They needed to be getting to the office.
“I’m coming!” She heard Sue yell from her room just before she appeared.
“I’m sorry.” She said. “Can you...?”
She was trying to get the bandage to stay on.
“Here.” Lucy taped it down. “Do you mind if we stop at the cafe and get coffee this morning? I’ve been craving one of those cinnamon scones.” She asked as they both grabbed their purses.
“Not at all.” Sue said, throwing her jacket back to the couch and then when Lucy gave her a questioning look she shrugged. “It’s hot outside. Plus it’s too big of a pain to get on and off.” She motioned to her arm and Lucy nodded.

Once they had gotten their coffee and scones Lucy turned to Sue.
“So did you decide what you’re going to do about Jack today?” She asked.
“I’m not going to do anything.” Sue answered with a shrug. “I’ll just act normal. See how he acts.”
Lucy smiled. “You call this not doing anything?” She said motioning to Sue’s wardrobe choice.
“What?” Sue said innocently. “I’ve worn this before.” She said.
“With a jacket.” Lucy wasn’t going to let her off that easy.
She looked hot. Still FBI professional. But hot.
Sue looked down at her clothes. Ok. So the black dress pants she was wearing may have hung a little low on her hips, and maybe the light pink tank top, that matched the pin stripes in her pants, could have been about an inch longer so that tiny strip of stomach didn’t show. But it was either this one, or the one with the really low neck line. She had to be a little subtle.
She looked back at Lucy and smiled mischievously.
Lucy understood immediately and burst out laughing.
“I think not doing anything is a really good idea.”
Sue laughed with her, glad that she approved, and they headed up to the office.

Jack sat quietly at his desk working on some paperwork. He had decided last night that today he would just act normal. See how Sue acted around him before he made any final decisions as to what he was going to do next. He’d done all right yesterday morning. Bobby had been there and he figured that with the rest of the team there it would be no problem. Just act normal. Easy. And just like normal his heart started to race when he heard Sue and Lucy laughing as they came down the hall. It was, however, not normal when his heart stopped as they entered the bullpen. He’d seen her yesterday! How had she become more beautiful? He looked away from her face, hoping that he’d snap back to reality when he saw her familiar business suit... which wasn’t all there?! Where was her jacket?!
Come on Jack. Pull it together. He thought to himself. It is a warm summer day. You’re not wearing a jacket. She wears stuff like this all the time. Plus she was just shot in the arm. A jacket would just irritate that. Is it getting hotter in here? He glanced around the room as he pulled at his collar. Is no one else burning up?
He looked back up to where Sue and Lucy were listening intently to an animated story Tara was telling as he loosened his tie and unbutton the first button on his shirt.
“You ok mate?” Bobby asked from his desk where he was watching him curiously.
Jack looked at him. “It’s hot in here, isn’t it?”
Bobby smirked.
“I don’t think so Sparky.” He followed Jack’s eyes back up to Sue and smiled.
This was too good.
The girls burst out laughing as Tara finished her story and turned to acknowledge the guys in the room.
“Good morning.” Sue said and she threw her purse on her desk and walked to the coffee maker.
“Hey.” Jack said. “How are you? How's your arm?” He asked and Sue could see that he was still concerned.
She looked down at her arm and then back to him. “Still hurts like crazy but I think it’s doing better. It’s really bruised.”
“Yeah that happens.” Bobby said. “It’s a nice shade of purple.”
Sue smiled. “It’s actually closer to black right around the stitches but you’re right, it does fade into a pretty purple.”
She held up her arm to Bobby and Jack could see that, even though about four inches was covered with gauze, her arm was nice and purple.
“As long as nothing touches from here to here.” She said touching her collar bone to her elbow. “It’s really ok. Just sort of achy.”
Bobby nodded. “It is a beauty. You should be proud.”
Sue laughed as she walked back to her desk with her coffee.
“Maybe after I get the stitches out we can all compare ‘war wounds’.” She glanced at Jack. “I’ll show you mine if you show me yours.” She said innocently but Jack didn’t miss the inviting dare in her eyes.
He swallowed and had to look away, missing her satisfied smile.
Bobby, on the other hand, did not. He laughed. Good girl.

Sue had been concentrating on her report all morning and it had been hard. Especially when she could feel Jack looking at her. She’d even looked up a couple times and simply smiled. She released a relieved breath when she saw him stand and he walked behind her to discuss something with D at his desk. She looked up at Jack’s desk and suddenly she was there, sitting on the edge as Jack stood in front of her his hands cupping her face as he kissed her passionately. Her hands clutched his hips, slowly moving to his back and they crept under his shirt where they met hot, tight muscles. Jack’s hands moved from her face to... Sue abruptly snapped back to reality when she realized she was looking directly into Jack’s dark, hungry eyes.
“Are you ok?” He asked eventually.
“Yeah. Sorry.” Sue shook her head, trying to clear it. “I just zoned out there for a minute. I must be more tired than I thought.”
She said and lowered her head with and embarrassed smile.
Jack continued to stare at her. What was that? He’d come back to his desk and turned to look at Sue, again, only to find that she was looking back with dark eyes, completely lost in thought. Her cheeks had been slightly flushed and she was biting her bottom lip the way she did when he... Oh man. He had to swallow a groan.
Jack turned away and he saw James walk through the door. It was as if someone poured freezing cold water over his head. What was he doing here?
He watched as James got Sue’s attention and, with a smile, she stood. James took her hands and Jack had to grip his arm rests to keep from jumping up when James kissed the corner of her mouth. Was this greeting really necessary? Those lips were his and James was far too close.
“I just wanted to come and say thank you and to see how you’re doing.” James motioned to Sue’s arm. “How’s your arm?” He asked.
“It’s ok.” She shrugged. “They had to stitch me up pretty good but that’s about it.”
James looked at her arm and nodded. “Sexy scar.” He said.
Sue laughed and when he looked back at her face she said, “I’ve heard that.”
She turned to Jack and smiled. He couldn’t help but smile back with a wink.
“So it looks like you’re back to FBI Barbie.” He said, his eyes wandering over her body appreciatively, and she smiled shyly.
Jack wanted to punch him.
“Well, you know.” She shrugged again.
He smiled.
“I’m glad you’re ok.” He said and then turned to the rest of the team. “Thank you all so much. You saved our lives.”
“No problem.” D said. “We’re glad we could help.”
Tara stood and walked around her desk. “Yeah. It’s what we do.”
James laughed and turned back to Sue.
“Everyone wanted me to tell you that you better visit every once in a while. They’re really going to miss you.”
“I will.” She said. “Tell them I said hi.”
James nodded.
“I better get going.” He said. “I’ve got a busy week.” He leaned down to hug Sue. “Thanks again.” He signed.
“You’re welcome.” She signed back.
James turned to the door and waved to everyone as he left.
“FBI Barbie?” Bobby asked and he looked at Sue, expecting an explanation.
“Yeah. Don’t ask.” She said, drawing more curiosity from the others, which, much to their dismay, she ignored.
Sue turned to Lucy, who was sitting quietly at her desk with a perplexed expression on her face.
“Luce? Are you ok?”
Lucy turned to Sue and pointed toward the door.
“I still can’t believe they are all that good looking.” She said with a lost look, even though she had seen them at the ball.
Sue looked back at the rest of the group with concern.
“I think we better feed her.” She said as a smile slipped onto her face.
“Then we better feed me too because I agree with her.” Tara said and everyone grabbed their stuff to head to lunch.
“If we eat, it doesn’t mean we agree does it?” Myles asked and they all laughed.
“I hope not. I’m hungry.” Jack said and he and Bobby lifted Lucy from her chair and ushered her out of the office.
The others followed behind.

The rest of the afternoon went by quickly. Between doing paperwork and watching Jack and Sue try not to watch each other, the team was pretty busy, not to mention entertained.
By the time Sue was ready to go she was exhausted and her arm was killing her. If the pain didn’t ease up tonight, so that she could sleep, she was going to have to break down and take one of her pain killers. She looked over at Lucy, who was on the phone, and she signed, “I’ll see you at home.” indicating that it could be a long call. She stood up, cradling her arm against her body, and stretched her back. It was so sore. Her whole body was sore. A pleasant smile appeared on her face. She knew exactly what she’d do when she got home.
She glanced at Jack and saw that he was watching her.
“You heading home?” He asked.
“Yeah.” She said as she picked up her purse and grabbed Levi’s leash all with her left arm. “I need to go home. Unwind.”
The fact that she held her right arm against her stomach did not go unnoticed by Jack.
“I think if I do anymore paperwork today my brain is going to explode.” She said and Jack laughed but nodded his head.
“I’m with you.” He said. “As soon as I’m done with this last thing I’m taking off.” He motioned to the report he was working on. “I bet you’ve got some great unwinding techniques don’t you?” He said and Sue caught the playful spark in his eyes.
Oh I’ll play. She thought as an enticing smile slowly formed on her lips. She closed her eyes.
“Mmm.” She sighed with a slight nod in answer to Jack’s question. “I can’t wait to get home, turn off all the lights, light some candles and take a long, hot, steamy bubble bath.” She opened her eyes and smiled at Jack. “I’ll see you in the morning.” She said and turned, walking out the door.
Jack sat, staring after her, but actually seeing the image she had just planted in his head.
Yeah, I’m going to be able to finish this report now. He thought sarcastically.
Bobby sat at his desk with his back to Jack. Other than Lucy and Jack, he was the only person still in the bullpen.
“I’ve also heard cold showers are nice.” He said with a huge smiled plastered to his face and when he heard Jack’s head hit the desk he turned and glanced at Lucy, who was silently laughing and nodding her approval.

this is so awesome!!! I can't wait for more!

i so love this story, hahahah i love how the way sue is acting, not to shy but letting everybody see that she is a woman , great

That was hysterical!! Come on Jack....be a man and make another move already. Could she give you any more subtle hints or what!!!!

Jack can be such a slowpoke...

but we love him anyway

Me thinks serendipity's got it covered. Sssooooooo funny Em!!!!! You're cracking me up!!! Ya know, my floor isn't that comfy!

Jen

Here's a little more...

Em

********

“How was your bath?” Lucy asked when Sue finally emerged.
“So nice.” Sue walked toward her so that Lucy could help her wrap her arm. “I can’t believe how achy my whole body has been the last couple of days.”
Lucy nodded. “It doesn’t surprise me. How often do you tackle someone, get shot, and wrestle a gun away from them?” She asked and Sue just smiled. “Have you been able to get any sleep.”
Sue shook her head.
“I wish.” She said.
“Sue.” Lucy was concerned. “You haven’t been sleeping since the last case got over.”
“I know.” Sue sighed. “And now, if I do fall asleep, the second I move the pain in my arm wakes me up. But on the up side, I haven’t had a nightmare since I was shot.”
“So, two nights?” Lucy asked and Sue nodded. “That's what woke you up Saturday morning isn’t it?”
“Yeah.”
“Maybe you should take one of your pain pills.” Lucy suggested.
Sue shook her head. “I hate those things.”
“I know you do.” Lucy said. “But you need to sleep and I know you are in a lot of pain.”
“I feel a lot better after my bath.” Sue assured her and when Lucy didn’t look convinced she said, “I’ll think about it. Ok?”
“Deal.” Lucy said.

When six rolled around and Sue had only had about an hour of sleep she seriously reconsidered her decision.

“Maybe you should call in sick.” Lucy said when Sue got out of the shower.
“Lucy, I am not going to call in sick.” She said as she brushed through her wet hair.
“Why not?” Lucy plugged in the curling iron.
“Because I’m not sick.” Sue argued.
“But you’re exhausted and in pain.” Lucy looked at her. “Just take a pain pill and sleep. Everyone will understand.”
“No!” Sue snapped and turned on the hair dryer, signaling the end of the conversation.
Lucy shook her head and walked out of the bathroom. She was really worried about Sue. She was so tired. The dark circles under her eyes proved that and Lucy didn’t know how to help her. She couldn’t get rid of the nightmares and she couldn’t force Sue to take a pain pill. But she needed to do something. If she had to, she’d talk to Jack.

Sue finished her hair by pulling it to the side in a loose ponytail that hung over her shoulder. She applied her make up, adding a little extra cover up under her eyes to hide the dark circles, and she went to her room to get dressed. She pulled on a pair of dark gray pants and a black cap sleeve shirt. After glancing in the mirror she went to find Lucy.
“Hey.” She said when she found her in the kitchen drinking a cup of coffee and she picked up the one for her that was already poured and waiting. “I’m sorry. I know you’re just worried. I shouldn’t have snapped at you.”
“It’s ok.” Lucy assured her. “I guess you’re just better with pain than I am. At the first twinge, I’m popping pills.”
Sue smiled.
“Not really.” She took a breath and explained. “I don’t like taking pain killers because they dull my senses. Without being able to hear, I only have four and I can’t stand it if they’re not all there. It really freaks me out.”
Lucy nodded. “I never thought of that before. I’m sorry.”
“For what?” Sue laughed.
Lucy joined her. “For trying to push drugs on you.”
They both laughed together.
“Come on. Let’s get to work.” Sue said as they grabbed their stuff and walked out of the apartment.
“How much coffee do you think you’re going to drink today?” Lucy joked.
Sue smiled. “I was thinking of moving the coffee machine to my desk.”

When Sue walked into the bullpen that morning Jack smiled. He’d been thinking of her all night and he couldn’t wait until he could lay his eyes on her beautiful face. When their eyes met, the dazzling smile she gave him took his breath away. He had to touch her. He grabbed his coffee mug and, after she had dropped her stuff and Levi at her desk, he met her at the coffee machine, oblivious to the four pairs of eyes, watching intently.
“Hey.” He said, resting his hand on the small of her back, and he smiled at the way her breath caught.
“Hi.” She filled her mug with coffee and then filled his.
She faced him and smiled. He was wearing his royal blue shirt. The tight one. The one that made her want to... She reached up and ran her hand from his shoulder, burning a path down his chest to lightly skim his abs. Jack had to grip his coffee mug to keep from dropping it and grabbing her right there in the office. He could almost breathe when her hand dropped, but then she bit her bottom lip.
Why did she have to bite her lip?! His mind screamed.
Sue looked back into his eyes and slowly released her lip with a dangerous smile when she recognized the look in them. They darkened dangerously.
“I love this shirt.” She basically sighed and Jack gripped her hip with his hand that had started at her back and moved to her hip when she turned, because he had never gotten around to moving it.
They were both unaware of the disappointed groan that emanated around the office when D chose that moment to enter the bullpen calling out for everyone's attention.
“Listen up kids.” He said and Sue followed Jack’s gaze as he turned his head and they both easily slipped into work mode, moving away from each other and to where everyone had gathered to listen to D.
“Metro has just handed us a case.” He turned to the board. “Meet Chip and Dale.” He said as he pinned up pictures of two men. “These two men are believed to be creating a biochemical drug. A drug that is creating a buzz among certain terrorist groups to be used as a weapon. We believe that they have made a deal with one of them. But the drug isn’t finished. Or wasn’t finished. We believe Chip and Dale have been testing the drug on humans.”
He hung up four more pictures. Three men and one woman.
“These four people have been found dead. All at home. Nothing common between them. But the deaths are being linked because tox screens showed a similar poison, only slightly tweaked, in their blood. It was barely recognizable. No needle marks were found on the bodies so we assume the drug was either taken orally or, most likely, inhaled, which would be why the terrorists are after it. Metro has not been able to correctly identify these two men, nor have they been able to get any solid proof that they are the one’s producing the drug. And now Chip and Dale have disappeared. They’ve pretty much hit a brick wall.”
“Why are we the lucky ones that get the case?” Bobby asked and everyone turned back to D.
D smiled and turned to Sue. “Because we are the lucky one’s who have Sue.”
They all looked confused and turned to Sue, who only looked confused for a second before she nodded.
“Yeah. That makes sense.” She said confidently.
Everyone laughed and waited for D’s explanation.
“Before Chip and Dale went missing Metro was able to get these.” He said, pulling out a pile of surveillance tapes.
“Their video collection? Anything good?” Myles asked seriously and everyone smiled.
“Maybe if you like silent home movies.” D said.
“Wow. I wish I did.” Sue said, eying the tapes dreadfully.
D smiled at her sympathetically.
“They’re useless to Metro without the sound.” He handed her the tapes, which she reluctantly took. “I’ve got everything set up in the conference room so no one will bother you.”
“Did you stock it with popcorn, drinks, and candy?” She asked playfully and everyone laughed.
“If he did, I’m joining you.” Tara said seriously.
“Sorry.” D apologized. “Just get through as many as you can today before you go crazy.”
“Thanks.” Sue said sarcastically.
“Lucy, Tara, I want you to find out everything you can on Chip and Dale. Start with their names.” Jack said when D turned the lead over to him.
“You got it.” Tara said and she and Lucy got to work at their desks.
“Myles, D, find out what you can about the four victims. Find the connection that Metro missed.”
They nodded.
“Bobby, let’s go over the terrorist groups that are interested in this drug. See if we can find out which one they made the deal with.”
“No problem.” Bobby said.
Jack looked at Sue and they smiled at each other as she moved to the door.
“I’ll let you know if we have any blockbusters here.” He watched her leave the room and then turned back to his desk.
Bobby faced Myles across his desk.
“I guess we’ll have to wait until tomorrow for another episode of ‘As The Bullpen Turns’.” He said quietly so that Jack didn’t hear.
Myles managed to look almost panicked as he glanced between Jack and Sue’s empty desk.
“I don’t think I can. What’s going to happen?!” He said hysterically, drawing the attention of the others. “I’m sorry.” He calmed and he smirked when he noticed Jack’s confused expression mixed in with the other’s amused ones. “Maybe we should start taping it.” He muttered and Bobby laughed loudly.

Three hours later Myles and D still couldn’t find any connections between the victims. Jack and Bobby had come up with five terrorist groups who had had recent activity and could possibly be the ones Chip and Dale had made the deal with. And Tara and Lucy still couldn’t identify them, and they had run their pictures through every data base.
“Malcolm Slater and Brady Lavery.” Sue said as she walked into the bullpen.
“You got their names?” Tara asked with an exasperated sigh.
Sue nodded and walked to the board, pointing at their pictures. “Malcolm and Brady. They’ve been friends for at least twenty years and I’m pretty sure that at one point they were business partners in a small town called Tory. They didn’t say where that was.” She turned to Myles and D. “Did you guys find a connection between the victims?”
“No. They didn’t have any mutual friends. They didn’t work at any of the same places or go to the same schools or churches. Nothing in their pasts could have linked them. I’m starting to doubt that they ever walked down the same streets.” D answered.
Sue nodded. “Check local hangouts, restaurants, bars, stores, that kind of thing. Malcolm mentioned before the fourth victim was found that he was going back to the usual place. He’d found another willing lab rat. I’m pretty sure he found them all at the same place.”
Sue then turned to Jack and Bobby.
“Have you ever heard of a group called Al Zahir?” She asked.
“Yeah.” Jack said and he sorted through some papers. “It’s a new group. They’ve barely made it on the radar.”
“Malcolm mentioned them. I’d check it out.” She walked to her desk and pulled an eight ounce cup of yogurt out of her purse and then she grabbed a bottled water and a spoon.
“Do we really need to be here?” Myles asked. “I think Sue’s got the case pretty much under control.”
Everyone laughed.
“I say we get some lunch before we dive back in.” Lucy said. “You wanna come?” She asked Sue.
Sue held up her yogurt and smiled.
“No thanks. I’m good.” Levi followed her to the door. “I’ve got to get back in there and finish learning how to put my car engine back together.” She said as she walked out.
Lucy looked nervous. “I hope she doesn’t want me to help her try that this weekend.”
Jack smiled. Sue working on a car? That’s kind of hot. He thought and followed the rest of the team out the door.

Much to the teams dismay, Sue didn’t have much more information by the end of the day. She wasn’t in a huge rush to get home anyway. Lucy had a date who was picking her up at the office and an empty apartment didn’t sound fun at all. She stretched her stiff, unused muscles, unaware that Jack was silently watching her from the door way until she turned her head when he moved toward her.
“You should have asked for a couch or something.” He said, looking at the uncomfortable office chair she had been sitting in all day.
“It’s already on my list for next time.” She said and had to look up as Jack moved behind her and gently started rubbing her shoulders.
“How’s your arm?” He asked, looking down into her tired eyes and she closed them, sighing into his hands.
“It’s doing better. Still pretty sore but at least that burning pain is almost gone.” She opened her eyes again.
“Good.” He said and then motioned to the screen. “Anything interesting?”
“Not really. Unless you’re interested in the horticulture of the ancient Greeks.” She corrected.
“Really?” Jack looked disturbed and Sue smiled up at him with a nod.
They stared silently at each other for a moment.
“You and Bobby going to play pool at Richie’s tonight?” She asked finally.
Jack nodded. “Yeah. You wanna come?”
Sue smiled and shook her head. “Bobby takes it a lot better when he comes in second instead of third.”
Jack laughed. “Good point.”
“You ready to go mate?” Bobby asked as he walked into the conference room and Sue gave him a dirty look when Jack’s hands dropped from her shoulders. “I didn’t mean to interrupt.” He apologized playfully and Sue smiled up at Jack.
“You’re going to kick his trash, right?” She asked mischievously and Jack and Bobby laughed.
“Oh yeah.” Jack said and before Bobby could make any comments about the last time they’d played he asked, “You wanna walk out with us.”
“No.” She said, turning in her chair so that she was facing them. “I’m going to finish up this tape before I leave. But you guys have fun. Good luck Bobby.” She teased.
He turned, saying something Sue couldn’t see and left the room.
“What did he say?” She asked Jack, who actually blushed when he shook his head.
“I don’t know. Something Australian.” He lied and Sue gave him a doubtful look but didn’t press it.
“I’ll see you in the morning.” He said.
Sue smiled. “Yeah.”
And before he got lost in her eyes, Jack turned and left the room.
Bobby was waiting in the hall. “That was quick. You didn’t find out how sturdy that conference table is, did you?”
Jack didn’t answer as he tried to clear his mind of the image Bobby had planted there. Bobby smiled at the look on his face.
“I may not need luck after all.” He said smugly.
Jack was gone.

When Sue finished the tape she looked down at Levi.
“What do you think?” She asked. “Should we watch another one?”
Levi barked.
“We might as well.”
She stuck in another tape and got comfortable.

interesting!!! I love Bobby's comment.

Wow, the team already has another case? They sure are lucky they have Sue! I love the sweet moments between Jack and Sue. When will one of them be brave enough to try and go another step further?! You're really doing a great job with this Em and I love it!

even though i'm loving your story and i'm always waiting for you to post, i still have one question for you........

WHEN IS JACK GOING TO DO SOMETHING ...... ok that was all

ohh ansd sue alone , nobody nearby i don't know i don't think that's save

Well, you warned us...you are writing Sue from a different perspective. It's different but you're doing a great job. Good flow, easy to follow and I'm wondering when Jack's going to make a move as well.

Looking forward to more.

When Jack pulled into the parking garage the next morning he noticed that Sue’s car was already there, but she wasn’t in the bullpen when he entered. Lucy, Myles and D were talking by the coffee maker.
“Hey.” He said, getting their attention. “Good morning.”
“Good morning.” They said back.
“Where’s Sue?” He asked Lucy, trying to sound nonchalant. “I saw her car in the garage.”
“She’s in the conference room.” Lucy answered, her voice sounding a little off.
“Already?” Jack looked at the clock. “She must have gotten here early.”
“She never came home.” Lucy told him.
“What?!” His eyes shot up.
“She’s been here all night.” She said and Jack turned, rushing out of the room.
Myles and Lucy looked at each other with excited eyes.
“You can’t go watch.” D said and their faces fell.
“What’s up with Jack?” Bobby asked as he and Tara walked in, both looking back to where they had past Jack in the hall.
“He just found out that Sue’s been here all night watching those videos.” Lucy answered.
Bobby and Tara’s eyes lit up and they both turned to follow Jack.
“Stop!” D said and they both turned back.
“He won’t let us watch.” Myles said dejectedly.
And just like Myles and Lucy, their faces fell. They slumped back into the office.
“I told you we need to start taping it.” Myles told Bobby. “Why don’t we have cameras in there?”
Everyone smiled when D smirked. “’ll look into it.” He said and walked to his desk.

Sue was completely focused on the screen when Jack entered the conference room. She didn’t even notice him until he clicked off the screen and she blinked, raising her tired, bloodshot eyes to his.
“What are you doing?” She asked.
“What are you doing?” He threw back, his face tense. “Lucy said you’ve been here all night.”
“I’ve got something.” She said excitedly and moved to turn the screen back on.
“Sue...” Jack started.
“Just wait.” She said as she watched the end of Malcolm and Brady’s last taped conversation.
She turned to Jack, who was watching her with concern.
“Is everyone here?” She asked and stood as she picked up her notes.
“I think so.” He said.
He followed her back to the bullpen.
Everyone listened intently as Sue told them what she’d learned from the tapes.
“The drug was originally suppose to help insomniacs sleep, which it did. But it had one nasty side effect. The users, essentially test subjects, all died close to forty eight hours after using it. Malcolm and Brady had found willing people and paid them cash to take a new ‘research drug’ for their sleeping problems. When Al Zahir heard that this drug was killing people with very little evidence they approached Malcolm, willing to pay him a lot of money if he could make the drug faster and completely undetectable in the body. Meaning it couldn’t leave any trace. Malcolm took the deal and has been trying to perfect the drug for the exchange with Al Zahir. He and Brady knew the authorities were after them and closing in, so they decided to hole up in a lab somewhere until the text batch was ready to test. I’m sure that is where they are now.” She informed the team.
“Any idea where this lab is?” Bobby asked.
Sue shook her head.
“I’m pretty sure it’s in the area. They `’t seem to be getting ready to go on a long trip. Tara should have no problem finding it.” She said turning to Tara.
“Piece of cake.” Tara was already working at her computer.
“They never said how the drug entered the body. We need to find out.” Sue said and Jack walked toward her.
“We will.” He said. “But you’re going home.”
“Jack...” Sue stood and Jack watched as she paled and he quickly caught her by the hips when her legs almost gave out and she swayed as the room spun.
“No. You’re done.” He said, his face and voice full of torment. “You are exhausted. You’re still hurting. I’m betting the last thing you ate was that little cup of yogurt yesterday, so I’m sure you’re hungry. You’ve pretty much solved the case. Let us finish it up.”
She hesitated. “But...”
“Go home. For me. Please don’t argue.” He said and softly touched her cheek.
She couldn’t say no to those eyes.
“Ok.” She finally surrendered and she turned to the rest of the team, who were watching the exchange with satisfied smiles, glad they didn’t miss their ‘episode’. “But don’t do anything exciting until I get back. I didn’t watch all those tapes just to miss out on the good part.” She said with a smile.
“We promise.” D said. “And great job. I told you we were lucky.”
Sue grabbed her purse. “Hey, I agreed with you.”
They all laughed.
“I’ll walk you to your car.” Jack said and he lead her out of the room with a hand on the small of her back.
Everyone turned to Myles, who sighed. A goofy smile on his face.
“How long do you think it will be before someone catches them making out in the building?” He joked.
And with a laugh, everyone threw in their bets.

“You think you’ll be ok driving home?” Jack asked as they approached Sue’s car.
“I’ll be fine.” She assured him and unlocked her door. “I think I just stood up too fast.” She said with a smile.
Jack doubted it but he smiled back, letting it go for now. As long as she was going home. He reached up again and gently cupped her cheek, his thumb lightly stroking it.
“Promise me you’ll try to get some sleep.”
She nodded. “If you promise me you’ll call if anything happens.” She touched his hand on her cheek.
“Deal.” He said.
She smiled as he reached around her to open the door and, after Levi jumped in, she climbed behind the wheel. Jack leaned forward, one hand on the roof of her car, the other on the door.
“I’ll see you later.” He said and was surprised when she unexpectedly grabbed his tie and pulled his lips to hers in a quick, rough kiss. It was over almost before he could respond.
“Bye.” She said enticingly and he couldn’t help but lean forward and capture her lips again, holding them a little longer.
“Bye.” He echoed when he pulled back, knowing that if he didn’t they wouldn’t leave the garage and it was only a matter of time before someone came looking for him.
Sue started the car and smiled up at him as he shut the door. He raise his hand in a wave as she pulled away. He turned to head back up to the office, a brilliant smile on his face. Was this really happening?

With bagel in hand, Sue crawled onto the couch after she had taken the longest, hottest shower she could remember. She laid down, Levi at her feet, as she ate.
She yawned. “Ok buddy. I’m going to sleep. You let me know if anything happens.”
She closed her eyes.

Just over an hour later Sue jerked awake, startling Levi, who, after he calmed down, was at Sue’s side, comforting her. She took a few deep breaths and tried to get her pounding heart under control.
“Ahh.” She growled in frustration right before she let the tears fall. “I’m sorry boy.” She said, wiping her eyes. “I’m just so tired. These nightmares have got to stop.”
She needed to get her mind on something else and she wondered if anything had happened at work since she’d left three hours ago. No one had called and as much as she was tempted, she knew she better not. She was suppose to be sleeping. Sue flipped on the tv, but once All My Children was over she couldn’t take it anymore. She picked up her blackberry and called Lucy.
“Hey. Aren’t you suppose to be sleeping?” Lucy asked when she answered.
“I tried. I actually got a good hour.” She said victoriously, but she knew Lucy was worried when she didn’t reply immediately.
She changed the subject.
“How’s the case coming?” She asked.
“Sue...” Lucy started.
“Listen. Not knowing is driving me crazy. How do you expect me to relax?” She pushed.
It worked. Lucy gave in.
“Tara just found the location of the lab. They’re getting ready to check it out. Hold on.” There was a pause.
“Luce, don’t tell them it’s me.” Sue said, knowing someone must be right there.
“Sorry.” Lucy said. “Jack’s right here. He wants to know why you’re not asleep.”
She knew it.
“Tell him I am.” She said.
Another pause.
“He said, ‘You better be’. He’ll call you after they check the lab.”
“Ok.” Sue said. “Tell them ‘Good luck’.
“I will.” Lucy said. “Get some rest.”
“Thanks. I’ll try.” Sue hung up.
“Now what?” She looked around the apartment and shrugged. “Might as well.” She said as she got up and walked to the closet and pulled out the vacuum.
Four hours later the apartment was spotless and she was starving.
“Well, it’s official.” She said to Levi as she stood in front of the fridge. “We have no food.” She closed it. “Wanna go grocery shopping?”
Levi barked.
Sue nodded and looked down at her sweats and tank top.
“Maybe I should change first.”
Levi followed her to her room, where she threw on a pair of old, comfy, holed jeans, a red tank top, and a pair of black flip flops. She ran a brush threw her hair, pulled it into a ponytail, and grabbed her purse, her blackberry, and Levi’s leash.
“Ok buddy. Let’s go.” They walked to the market near by.
Halfway through the cereal isle her blackberry vibrated. It was Jack.
“Hey.” She said when she answered.
“Hi. Were you sleeping?” He asked.
Sue smiled. These people and sleep. She thought sarcastically. “No. I was just trying to decide between regular and cinnamon Life.”
“For dinner?” Sue laughed.
“No. For breakfast.”
Jack was confused. “You’re deciding what you’re going to have for breakfast already?”
“I’m at the grocery store. I’m decided which one to buy.” She explained and Jack frowned. “And don’t say ‘You were suppose to be sleeping’.” She said before he could.
“Did you sleep?” He couldn’t help but ask.
“Did you call with news on the case?” She didn’t answer.
“Sue...”
“Jack...”
He gave in first. “We went to the lab. Malcolm and Brady weren’t there, but we could tell they had been very recently. There was food laying around, still pretty fresh. We gathered all their research and we’re having some samples we found of the drug tested. We have an APB out on them.”
He was met with silence.
“Sue?”
Her eyes were huge as she looked down the isle at Malcolm Slater and Brady Lavery. Malcolm was on the phone and Brady looked nervous.
“Jack, they’ve been located.”
“What?” His heart started to pound.
“They’re here. At the grocery store.” She said quietly.
“What store?” Jack asked loudly, getting the teams attention and they were rushing out the door.
“The 5th Street Market. By my place.” Sue told him. “Malcolm’s on the phone. The test subject was suppose to meet them here, but they’re not going to show. Malcolm is really upset.”
“Sue! Stay where you are. We’re on our way.” He was seconds away from panicking.
“They’re moving.” She said and she conspicuously followed behind, watching them closely.
“Stay where you are!” Jack yelled, knowing she wouldn’t.
She watched as Malcolm told Brady they needed to test the drug now. They didn’t have time to wait. They had to make the deal and if this batch didn’t work, they needed to get back to the lab. Malcolm looked around for a new test subject while Brady argued. It was wrong. They needed time to explain the drug to the person. But Malcolm wouldn’t wait.
“You’ve got to hurry. Malcolm’s going to find someone else.” She said. “I’ll stall them.”
“No! Sue...!” Ok, he was panicking.
“Just hurry.” She said and the line went dead.
“Damn it!” Jack threw down his phone and turned to Bobby, who was driving.
“She’s going to catch them too. Isn’t she?” He unsuccessfully tried to ease Jack’s mind as he pressed harder on the gas.
The others sped up behind them.

Sue followed closely behind as long as she could, until she saw Malcolm point out a potential victim, checking out sleeping pills. She couldn’t let an innocent person be hurt. She sped up, hitting Malcolm in the back with her cart.
“I’m so sorry.” She said when he turned. “I wasn’t paying attention.” She pointed behind him to where the sleeping pills were shelved. “Have you ever used these?” She asked. “I’ve been having trouble sleeping, but I’m nervous about taking something. I’ve heard they’re addictive.” She smiled her most charming smile and Malcolm turned to Brady with a triumphant expression.
“Actually, I think I have something that would help.” He reached out his hand. “Dr. Malcolm Slater.” Sue shook his hand. “Let’s go talk.” He said and Sue hated the way he put his hand on her back, noticing it felt strange when it briefly slipped under her shirt, but she followed him and Brady outside and paid close attention as Malcolm told her about the ‘new research drug’.
She silently let out the breath she had been holding when she saw the FBI fleet SUV's pull into the parking lot and she kept the two men’s attention as Jack, Bobby, D, and Myles slowly and silently approached.
“Wow. This drug sounds amazing. I actually have some friends who would be very interested in it.” Sue let her eyes focus behind the men. “Wouldn’t you guys?”
Malcolm and Brady turned, coming face to face with the agents.
“It does sound amazing.” Jack said. “But I think we need a little more information. Such as: does it have any side effects?”
They grabbed the men and cuffed them.
“Let’s go talk about it some more.” They led them to the SUV’s.
Sue followed.
“You ok?” Jack asked.
He was so relieved when he saw her standing there, unhurt and calm. Now all he wanted to do was touch her, hold her, breath in her scent, and yell at her for scaring him so badly. He settled for lightly touching her shoulder.
“I’m fine.” She looked into his eyes. “You guys made good time.” She teased.
Jack smiled. “We would have made better time but Bobby was driving.”
Sue laughed. “Can I hitch a ride to the office?”
Jack’s eyebrows drew together and he looked around the parking lot.
“We walked.” She said when she figured out that he was looking for her car.
Before Jack could argue that she should go home, she tried to reason with him. “I’ve got to see how this ends. If I go home I’ll go crazy.”
Bobby walked up behind Jack. “We’ll take you with us, but we get to talk to them. You’ve done enough. I’m starting to feel unneeded.” He joked.
“Deal.” Sue said. “You guys can talk to them.” She agreed and they jumped into the SUV.

Em - I'm enjoying this story SOOO much. I'm so impressed that it's your first story! What are Sue's nightmares about? Does this take place after Simon or is it the shooting? Is she having nightmares about Jack? You know what.....I betcha Sue would be able to sleep in the warm, protective arms of Jack! Just a thought!

That was fantastic Em!!!!!!!

That's about all I can come up with at the moment. I'll be back after school!!!

Jen

waytogo sue

cath

All caught up now! Em, this story keeps getting better and better. I love the interactions between Jack and Sue, and the way the guys are watching them like a tv show

can't wait for the next post,

Laura x

muy bien!!!!

I love it!!

Outstanding job Em! I'm glad Sue was able to capture the guys without getting hurt. But I'm really concerned about her lack of sleep. I can barely make it on six hours of sleep a night and it sounds like Sue's barely had a couple hours over the last few days. How is she holding up like that??

Hey guys! Thanks for all the comments! I know you've asked a lot of questions about when Jack is going to take action and all I am going to say is ... have a little faith... it's coming
Here is the next part - have fun reading!

Em

*********

“Tell us what the drug does.” Jack demanded.
Malcolm sat across from him and Bobby with a smug smile on his face. They’d find out soon enough. He was silent.
“Listen. You’re already going down for the murder of four innocent people. You’ve got nothing to lose.” Bobby tried a different approach.
They were getting no where with this guy.
“And what do I have to gain by telling you?” Malcolm snidely threw back.
“A bit nicer cell maybe.” Bobby told him. “You’ll be there for a long, long time. Small comforts go a long way.”
“Hmm.” Malcolm thought about it.
The agent had a point. He was sure prison cells sucked. Plus the reaction of these agents, especially the darker haired one he’d seen with the blonde, was sure to be entertaining.
“Fine.” He said.

Sue sat at her desk. She had planned on watching the interrogations of Malcolm and Brady, and had for a minute, but her head started to pound and she needed to sit before she collapsed. Lucy touched her shoulder.
“Hey. I’m taking off. You want me to give you a ride back to the apartment on my way to the airport?” She asked.
Lucy was leaving until Sunday to visit her mom in Atlanta.
Sue was about to decline when another wave of pain hit and she gave in.
“Sure.” She stood.
“Are you sure you’re all right?” Lucy asked and Tara walked up.
“Yeah. You don’t look very good.” She added.
“Thanks.” Sue said sarcastically. “I think the lack of sleep is catching up with me. I just have this headache. Nothing lying down won’t cure.” She tried to assure them with a forced smile.
Lucy and Tara both just nodded. That made sense.
“Let me know what happens with Malcolm and Brady?” She asked Tara as she and Lucy headed out the door.
“You got it.” Tara said. “Call me if you need anything.” She didn’t like how the color had drained from Sue’s face.
Sue nodded. “I will.” If I don’t pass out on the way to the car. She added silently.

“So other than being undetectable, fast, and lethal, you really know nothing of this newly tweaked batch of drugs?” Bobby stared at Malcolm exasperatedly.
Malcolm shrugged. “It serves it’s purpose. That’s all I need to know.”
“How does it get in the body?” Jack asked. “Is it taken orally? Is it inhaled?”
“It’s absorbed.” Malcolm boasted. “Through the skin.”
Jack was getting very uneasy. His mind was screaming that he was missing something. Something unbelievably important.
Malcolm was right. He could clearly see Jack’s agitation. It was entertaining. And this wasn’t even the best part
“You don’t know if a person would have any symptoms? Any warning that they’re about to die?” Bobby asked.
He had a hard time believing Malcolm did not know. He made the drug.
A slow smile appeared on Malcolm’s face and he looked directly at Jack. “Maybe you should ask the gorgeous blonde.”

I don't like the sound of the last bit there!!!

Oh no! It was when he slipped his hand to her back under her shirt, wasn't it??? Oh no!!!! Sue has GOT to be OK!!! Make her be OK, please!

Oh my goodness, why did you have to leave it there? What are the side effects going to be? Sue isnt going to do something crazy like throw herself at Jack is she?


Great Job LittleEm. I cant wait for more.

I thought that arrest had gone a little bit too easily!! I sure hope that these guys have an antidote cooked up somewhere!

Em, I was really enjoying it, but i think you've been reading too much angst in my fics!!!! I'm a bad influence. Remember?? AAAHHHHHH!!!! Sue had better be okay young lady, or we may have to come and hunt you down!! Please!?!?!?!

Jen

If the drug is absorbed through the skin and that Malcolm creep touched her, wouldn't it mean that Sue... AARRRGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!!

EM!!!! What's gonna happen to Sue?? come back, please, please(lol). Great post

ACK!!



EM!!!!

Sorry to keep you on the edge - Here's the next part!
I hope you are all having a gorgeous day!

Em

**********

Jack’s heart froze. His mind went silent. The oxygen his body so desperately needed no longer seemed important. Everything stopped. And then, like a train in the distance, Jack’s mind started to scream, getting louder as the train got closer until it drowned out the rest of the world. Jack was vaguely aware that he had Malcolm pinned to the floor. Malcolm’s haunting laugh filling the small room as Bobby tried desperately to pull Jack away.
“Jack! Jack!” Bobby wasn’t having any luck.
Two agents rushed in and they dragged an enraged Jack out of the room and into the deserted hall way.
“You have got to calm down!” Bobby said as Jack paced back and forth like a caged animal.
“Bobby! He...!” Jack couldn’t even finish.
His blood was boiling.
“I know.” Bobby was trying hard to sound calm, even though he was seconds away from helping Jack tear Malcolm apart. “But this won’t help her.”
Jack stopped.
Myles and D entered the hall.
“What’s going on?” D asked.
“Malcolm exposed Sue to the drug.” Bobby informed them angrily.
“What? When?” Myles asked.
They were both shocked.
“I’m assuming at the grocery store. He said the drug is absorbed, through the skin. He must have touched her.” Bobby figured out.
“Why didn’t Sue say anything?” D asked.
Bobby shook his head. “I don’t think she knows.”
He turned to Jack, who looked like he was going to lose it again any second, and then back to D and Myles.
“He’s not saying anything else.” He said referring to Malcolm. “Did you guys get anything out of Brady?”
D nodded. “He told us how the drug got started and how, after the first two deaths, Malcolm was approached by Al Zahir and he changed. He became greedy and vindictive, and for the money he turned the bad drug into a weapon, an undetectable poison essentially.”
“Where’s Sue?” Myles asked.
Jack finally spoke. “In the bullpen with Lucy and Tara.” He said, unaware that she had left.
“She must be ok for now or else they would have told us.” Myles tried to comfort.
“Let’s get back in there. See if we can get anything that will help.” D said. He turned to Jack. “You have to stay calm.”
Jack nodded and followed them into the other interrogation room.
Brady looked up when they entered and caught the looks on their faces. “He touched the blonde woman didn’t he.” It wasn’t a question.
“How fast will this drug work?” Bobby asked.
Brady shook his head. “It’s hard to say. I don’t know how much Malcolm exposed her to, but it goes to work the second it touches the skin. Immediately after coming in contact with the drug all sounds become dull and muted. He must not have used much because she didn’t really react.” Brady said with confusion.
“She’s deaf.” Jack hissed.
Brady’s eyes got wide. “I didn’t know.”
“What happens next?” Myles asked when Brady didn’t continue.
“Eventually you get a headache. A horrible, incapacitating headache. But again, the more you’re exposed, the sooner the headache and the worse the pain.” Brady paused. “I assume that not long after the headache is when you die. It works really fast.”
“You assume?” Bobby repeated.
“That’s as far as I got.” Brady nodded.
“What do you mean?” Myles asked.
Brady explained. “After Malcolm made the deal with Al Zahir, I started working on an antidote without his knowledge. I couldn’t be a part of that, but I still had to be in the lab where he had the drug. After he finished the drug I exposed myself to it, knowing that if the antidote didn’t work at least I tried. It worked.”
Jack started breathing again. “Where is the antidote?” He almost yelled.
“I don’t have any with me. I need to get to the lab.” He said.
“We’ll take you there.” D said, indicating himself and Myles. “Jack, Bobby, get Sue.” He turned back to Brady. “Should they take her to the hospital?”
Brady shook his head. “It won’t do any good. They won’t find anything wrong with her.” He said. “The only thing you can do is make her comfortable. But whatever you do, don’t let her sleep.”
They nodded and Jack and Bobby rushed back to the bullpen as D and Myles escorted Brady to the lab.

“Where’s Sue?!” Jack shouted as he raced into the office.
Tara answered without turning away from her computer. “She took off with Lucy a few hours ago. She had a killer headache and Lucy offered to drop her off on the way to the airport so that she could lay down. She looked really sick. I think she just needs sleep.” Tara finally looked up and saw Jack’s pale face and Bobby’s panicked expression.
“What happened?” She asked, suddenly worried.
“Malcolm exposed Sue to the drug. The headache is one of the symptoms.” Jack choked.
“Oh no.” Tara whispered.
“Try to get a hold of her.” Bobby said. “We’re on our way.” He ran after Jack, who had already left.

Em, I just found your story and have read it from start to your last post!! What a writer you are!!!

I love the way you write Jack and especially Sue!! You aren't really that far off the mark with her - you just made her a little more worldly wise!! Jack I think you have hit right on!! As well as the rest of the team!!!

You've had me laughing, crying, scared, melting, you name it!! Now, I get here just in time for a whopper of a cliffhanger!!!

I hope they get to Sue in time and that Brady can give her the antidote!!!

Joy

Em, I'm kinda scared now

I finally got caught up, This is really Great Em!!! You are doing an amazing job, keep up the good work.


I really hope that Jack and Bobby finds Sue and she doesnt sleep, I hope she will be ok. Dont you let anything happen to Sue now.


I am looking forward to more so please post more.



Mallory

I just caught up again. You've developed this story so well. It's very gripping and you're writing the characters so well.

Just to point this out......you are not going to be able to post this story fast enough! I absolutely love it! Thank goodness Brady started working on the antidote, but they need to get it to Sue and fast!

Em that was a great post, but maybe Jack can wake Sue up with a 'prince charming kiss' ?????? It seems Jack is doing a lot of that recently!!!!! EEEEKKKKKKK!!!!!! I have to go to school soon, and all I'll be able to think about is this. I could get knocked out by a rounders ball and then not be able to post because I wan't paying attention. Do you really want to be responsible for that???? Now come back herre and post!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jen