Hey everyone! I'm a new member on this site, although I have been reading your stories for a long time, and I finally decided to join and enter one of my many stories in the challenge.
I decided to do a story where Sue gets to kick a little butt and I have to admit I've made a few slight changes in her character. I hate the idea that people made fun of her in high school, and that she was so discriminated against. So in my story Sue was not a "loser" (not that I think she was). She dated, had boyfriends, and was well liked. I also got rid of the grandma pajamas. But that is all. Ok, on with the story. I hope you enjoy!

Em

***************

Lucy was startled awake by a loud knocking on the front door. She jumped up and called to Levi, knowing that he would be waking up Sue. Lucy knew that she needed her sleep. She hadn’t been sleeping well and Lucy had heard her up at two, only two hours earlier. Lucy was grateful when Levi met her at the front door because that meant Sue was finally asleep.
“Who could that be?” Lucy asked him. “It’s four in the morning.”
She opened the door to see Howie Fines looking anxious.
“Howie? What are you doing here?” She asked as she let him in.
“I’m sorry. I know it’s early. Hey Levi! How’s it going?” He said as he leaned down to shake Levi’s paw.
“Howie?” Lucy said again.
“Oh yeah. Sorry. I have some info for you guys at the bureau. My cousin’s fraternity is going to be attacked. He has information about it. Where’s Sue?” He looked around the apartment.
“It’s four am. She’s obviously asleep.” Lucy told him.
“We should wake her up and call Jack. He should hear about this too.” He made himself comfortable on the couch.
Lucy rolled her eyes, too tired to argue. “I’ll call him. We’ll wake up Sue when he gets here.”
Lucy grabbed her cell phone and dialed Jacks number. When he finally answered his voice was groggy. She told him that Howie had shown up and had “urgent” information they needed to know about.
“He’s on his way.” She said to Howie as she hung up the phone and started making coffee.
Howie flipped on the tv, turning the channel to some insane cartoon that happened to be on at that time in the morning. How anyone knew what was on tv at that time of day seemed crazy to her. Of course this was Howie.
Thirty minutes later Lucy let Jack in the door.
“Hey Jackie! How’s it going?” Howie said exuberantly, raising his hand to give Jack a high five.
Jack gave him a strange look and, ignoring the hand, simply nodded. “Howie.” He said, hoping this wasn’t some lame story Howie had made up to get attention. He turned to Lucy. “Where’s Sue?” He asked.
“Still asleep. She’s been having trouble sleeping lately and I didn’t want to wake her until I absolutely had to.” Lucy said.
She caught the question in Jack’s eyes and was glad that, after casting a quick look at Howie, he didn’t ask her to elaborate. She was just about to send Levi in to get Sue when her door opened.
“Lucy, what are you doing up? It’s four thirty in the morning.” Sue said while she walked toward the kitchen where she could see Lucy pouring coffee. She stopped in her tracks when she noticed Jack and Howie in the living room staring at her with strange expressions. “Well this is a weird dream.” She furrowed her brow and continued on her way to the kitchen.
“I wish.” Lucy laughed. “Howie started pounding on the door at four. He has information for us. Jack just got here.”
Sue turned and gave Howie a dirty look. “Why don’t you ever get information at like, I don’t know, nine?”
“Hey.” He shrugged. “The early bird gets the worm.” He said before going back to petting Levi and his cartoon.
Sue looked at Jack, who looked both amused and annoyed. She didn’t blame him. She was annoyed and she was a morning person. Of course she really didn’t consider it morning when it was still dark outside.
“Hey.” She said.
He stood and walked toward the bar.
“Hey.” He said back as he picked up the mug of coffee Lucy had just poured for him.
He couldn’t help but stare when Sue turned around and, raising on her toes, reached into the cupboard to grab herself a mug. He heard Lucy laugh and he turned to see her shaking her head. He’d been caught. But come on. How was he not suppose to stare? He’d looked up when she’d come out of her room, for some reason not expecting to see her in her pajama’s even though she had been in bed. Her hair was pulled up into a messy bun and she was wearing an oversized gray Ohio State University sweatshirt and these tiny little black running shorts that were showing off a pair of amazing legs. Long, sexy, toned, smooth... Amazing legs. And now he was staring. Caught completely off guard.
She turned back around with her mug and poured herself some coffee.
“So what’s going on?” She asked.
Jack cleared his throat before meeting her eyes, noticing how tired they looked. He shrugged. “Howie?” He said and they all made their way into the loving room and sat, waiting for Howie to begin.
Jack couldn’t help but notice how Sue curled her legs up under her body as she sat in the overstuffed chair. He mentally shook himself and turned to listen to Howie.
“My cousin, James, is the president of the Pi Delta’s. It’s a fraternity at Georgetown University. Last night one of his friends was killed in a hit and run. She was a member of a sorority. I don’t remember the name. Sig- something.” He shook his head.
“Sigma Gama?” Sue raised her eyebrows.
“Yeah. That’s it! How did you know?” Howie asked excitedly.
All eyes turned to Sue.
“Pi Delta’s really only socialize with Sigma Gama’s. They are pretty much the same.” The others still looked confused so she explained a little more. “Fraternities and sororities are sponsored. One fraternity and one sorority are sponsored by the same source, essentially making them one organization. The Sigma Gam’s and the Pi Delt’s are always sponsored together.” She finished.
“How do you know that?” Lucy asked with interest.
“I was a Sigma Gama.” Sue answered.
“Really?” Lucy laughed. “And you never told me?”
Sue smiled and shrugged.
Jack could feel his eyebrows reach toward his hairline. Sue was in a sorority? He never would have guessed. It was definitely something he would have to think about later. He turned his attention back to Howie when he started talking again.
“Ok. Yeah. So this girl, Melanie, had just given James a note she’d found saying that the fraternity and the sorority were going to be attacked next Friday at midnight during some sort of ceremony where new kids join.” He told them.
“Why would someone attack a fraternity and sorority?” Lucy asked.
Howie continued with a shrug. “Something about them coming from rich, powerful families James said. He told me that when Melanie gave him the note she was scared to death and then she was hit by a car last night. He doesn’t think it was an accident where the driver got scared and took off like the police are saying. He thinks she was run down and killed on purpose.”
“Why did James come to you with the information instead of telling the police?” Jack asked.
“He knows I work for the Bureau.” Howie said importantly and Jack tried not to roll his eyes. “I told him you would help without letting the killers know he knows about the note. He thinks they’d go after him too.”
Jack nodded. “Get James and meet us at the office. Make sure he brings the note.”
“No problem.” Howie said. “You guys wanna get some breakfast first?”
“Howie.” Jack threatened.
“Fine. You guys need help calling the rest of the team?” He asked.
“No. We got it. You just get James.” Jack said.
“Ok. You want me to pick up some doughnuts or something?”
“Howie!”
“All right, all right. I’m gone.” Howie finally made his way to the door.
Jack turned back to the girls with an exasperated sigh. They both laughed.
Sue stood up slowly and stretched. “I guess we better get ready.” She said to Lucy. “You wanna shower first?”
“You go ahead.” Lucy answered and she gathered the empty coffee cups, taking them to the sink.
Sue turned to Jack. “I’m going to give Howie your address so that he can show up and your place at four am and wake you up.” She said.
Jack laughed and unconsciously looked her up and down. “But I don’t look nearly as good in my pajamas.”
Sue looked down at herself and then back to Jack, laughing. “You’re funny.” She said sarcastically. She was a mess.
The look he gave her playfully told her that he was serious. She highly doubted that. Jack in pajama’s. Hmm. She laughed again and said, “I’ll see you at the office.” She walked into the bathroom.
Jack looked to Lucy who was smiling. “What?” He asked.
“I didn’t say anything.” She said back innocently.
They heard the shower turn on and Lucy walked him to the door.
“You said she’s having trouble sleeping?” She knew he was concerned.
“Yeah.” Lucy nodded. “Just the past few nights.” She didn’t want to go into details without Sue’s permission.
Jack understood. “I’ll see you at work.”
“Yep. I’ll see ya.” Lucy smiled.
Jack took one last look toward the bathroom door and then turned and walked down the hall.
Lucy shut the door and looked down at Levi.
“Those two.” She smiled and rolled her eyes.
Levi barked.
“I know.” She said and went to her room.

this is rerally good I can't wait until you write some more

ohhhhhhhhhhh sounds like this could be some case....
please post more soon...

Hey Em! It's neat to see you taking the plunge and writing your own story - kudos to you! This has a great start. You really captured Howie - good 'ol Howie. And I loved the little flirting between Jack and Sue. And I bet Jack does look good in pajamas...

YAY, a new story!!! I really like this and Sue's line about what she considered morning, and how Jack got caught and all Howie's lines, and oh, I could go on forever!!!!

More soon!

Jenny

Do you think he actually wear PJ's??
Welcome Em, glad you don't lurk anymore!

BELL!!!

Well, whatever he wears (or doesn't!) I bet he looks great!

Behave you guys!!!!! Honestly!!! Em, don't worry, soon you'll be as wacky as all of us!!! He he he!! Please post more soon!!

Jenny

Hi there and welcome.

Can't wait to see how you're going to develop Sue but I liked how she held her own with Jack and the pjs.

Have fun writing your story!

When Jack walked into the bullpen later that morning Bobby, D and Myles were already there, and so was Howie.
“Morning Sparky. Howie was just filling us in on everything he told you guys this morning.” Bobby hollered.
Jack turned to Howie who looked proud. “Good.” He said as he hung up his jacket behind his desk. “Is James here?”
“Yeah. We took him to the conference room.” D answered. “He was distracting all of the ladies.”
“Good looks run in the family.” Howie said with a confident shrug.
The others tried not to laugh.
Tara walked in a second later. “Why are there a bunch of girls standing outside the conference room?” She asked as she threw her purse on her desk and grabbed her coffee mug, heading to the pot to fill it up.
Jack turned to D.
“I’m on it.” D said and he walked out of the room.
Jack filled Tara in on the mornings events and by the time he was finished Sue, Levi, and Lucy walked in to office. Tara immediately handed them their coffee.
“Thanks.” Lucy said and Sue smiled.
“I figured you’d need it.” Tara said motioning to Howie.
“So where are we?” Sue asked.
“Howie’s cousin James is here. D has him in the conference room.” Jack answered. “So when you’re ready we’ll go talk to him.”
Sue sat her bag down, hung up her jacket and turned back to Jack. “Let’s go.” She said and she, Jack, Bobby, and Howie all made their way to the conference room.
James sat at the center of the large mahogany table. As soon as they entered he stood.
“James, this is Jack and Bobby.” Howie said as James shook hands with the two agents. Howie then motioned to Sue. “And this is Sue and Levi.”
James held out both hands and Sue took them with a knowing smile. James leaned down and kissed each corner of her mouth with a familiarity that Jack found incredibly disturbing. Especially when Sue simply laughed.
Howie must of told him. Sue looked James over. He obviously had good looks, one of the qualities Pi Delts were notorious for. And from the smile he was giving her, Sue would bet that he had the charms too. This she had been expecting. What she hadn’t expected was for him to break out in flawless sign language.
“Howie told me you were a Sigma Gama and that you’re deaf. He didn’t tell me you were so beautiful.” James signed.
Sue smiled. “He didn’t tell me you sign.”
James laughed. “I don’t think Howie knew. We’re not as close as he may have told you. My best friend, Emily, back in California is deaf. She taught me well. She’s also a Sigma Gam.”
“That’s amazing.” Sue signed back.
The others watched their conversation, catching only bits and pieces, until Jack moved to Sue’s side.
“Let’s get started.” He said.
He hated this James guy and didn’t know why. Ok maybe it was the way he smiled at Sue, or the way he held her hands, or the way he kissed her. Or maybe it was the fact that she didn’t seem surprised, or that she didn’t seem to mind.
“Yeah.” Bobby said to Jack’s left. “First of all, what was that all about?” He asked, motioning to Sue and James as they all took their seats.
D escorted Howie from the room, explaining that because he wasn’t an agent he couldn’t stay for the interview and although they were all very grateful he had come to them, he was no longer needed on this case but yes, he could have a doughnut with the others back in the bullpen before he left.
“Sorry.” Sue apologized. “Pi Delts always greet Sigma Gams like that. Howie told James I was a Sigma Gama.” She paused. “And that I’m deaf.” She said, explaining the signing.
“I was just telling Sue that my best friend, Emily, is deaf and taught me sign.” James filled them in.
“She’s also a Sigma Gama.” Sue added.
“Small world.” Jack said under his breath.
Sue shot him a strange look and Jack immediately knew that his emotions were a little too obvious and uncalled for and he attempted to put them in check. He turned back to James.
“What can you tell us about this note, your friend Melanie, and her death?” He asked.
James began, signing as he spoke. “The night before last I was home studying when Melanie came over and asked if she could talk to me. I figured it was about pledge week - “
“Pledge week?” Bobby interrupted.
“It’s when new pledges, or students, are trying to get into the fraternity or sorority. During the week the pledges have to accomplish certain tasks and requirements and at the end of the week the fraternity or sorority decides who is accepted and who is denied. It can be pretty brutal.” Sue explained.
“Right. Melanie was in charge of some of the weeks events and because I’m the Pi Delta president I assumed she wanted to run some stuff by me. She looked more stressed than usual. She said that she had found this note.” James said as he pulled it out and laid it on the table where Jack took it and read it, then passed it to Bobby and Sue.
“She said she didn’t think much of it because she was sure it was a joke, until she picked up the phone and heard one of the girls talking to a guy and they were talking about the attack. The guy said that none of the Pi Delts were expecting a thing and that when the two of them were done, none of their ‘brother’s or sister’s’ would know what hit them. Then the girls said that neither would their parents. Except their language was a little more colorful.” Jason explained. “Melanie said that she couldn’t tell who it was. She didn’t know anyone else was home. She unconsciously gasped into the phone. When it was obvious they had heard her she hung up the phone and took off. She came over to the frat house to find me knowing that I wasn’t at the football game like everyone else because I was studying for a test I had yesterday. I’m pre-med.” He said with a cocky grin aimed at Sue.
Jack shot him a dirty look that went unnoticed by everyone but Bobby.
“How long after that was she killed?” Bobby asked.
“She stayed at the house until she knew the girls would be home and she had classes all day yesterday. She was just leaving a study group late last night when she was hit by a car in that parking lot of the library. A hit and run. It was the only time she was alone.” James finished.
“Does anyone know she told you?” Sue asked.
James shook his head. “I don’t think I’d still be here if they did. I told some buddies I’d be in the chem lab all day today. No one knows I’m here.”
At that point Lucy stuck her head in the conference room and got Sue’s attention. She excused herself and followed Lucy out of the room.
“Man, she’s hot.” James exclaimed. “I bet out of those FBI suits she’s got one sexy bod.”
Jack snapped his head back to James and was about to rip him a new one when D walked in the door.
“I just got off the phone with campus security. They’re going to meet you two at the library as soon as you can get there.” He said to Jack and Bobby. Myles walked into the room. “We’ll finish talking to James and decide what to do.”
“Right.” Bobby said and he stood, slapping Jack on the back. “Let’s go mate.”
Jack stood and turned to James, giving him a threatening look. He really hated this guy.
“Sparky?” Bobby called. He was already at the door.
“Yeah.” Jack said as he followed him out the door and D and Myles took their seats across from James.
On the way back to the bullpen to get their things Bobby turned to Jack. “What was going on back there mate?” He asked.
“I don’t know what you mean.” Jack said nonchalantly.
“Come on Spark. You looked like you were going to jump across the table and strangle the poor bloke the second we got into the room.” Bobby accused.
“I did not.” Jack denied.
“You’re right.” Bobby nodded. “You looked like you were going to jump across the table and strangle him the second he touched Sue.”
Jack gave him a look of warning but Bobby ignored it. He’d let it go for now. This was not the time or the place. They entered the bullpen in the middle of Lucy, Tara, and Sue’s conversation.
“Is he really that good looking?” Tara asked eagerly.
Sue shrugged. “He looks like your average Pi Delt.” She answered.
“I don’t think he’s that great.” Bobby teased and the girls laughed.
“Are you kidding me?” Lucy was bursting. “He’s like a young Bradley Cooper. You’re telling me he’s an ‘average’ Pi Delta? They all look like that? These are the guys you hung out with in college?” She asked Sue with amazing speed.
Sue smiled at her never ending questions. “He’s pretty much my college boyfriend, Noah.”
“What?!” Lucy practically squealed. “Please tell me you have pictures.”
Sue laughed and rolled her eyes. “I’ll show you later.”
Lucy turned to Tara with an excited smile.
“Oh, I’ll be there.” Tara nodded.
They all laughed when Bobby asked, “Who’s Bradley Cooper?”
“Will, on Alias.” Sue answered with a smiled and she turned to Jack who was putting on his jacket. “Where are you guys going?”
“Campus security is meeting us at the library where Melanie was killed. We’re hoping someone saw something. An employee, another student. D and Myles are finishing up with James. What were you needed for?” Jack asked, wondering why Lucy had gotten her from the conference room.
“Randy needed the monthly man power report and Lucy couldn’t find it on my desk because I had it in a file.” Sue answered.
“You ready?” Bobby asked Jack and he turned away from Sue and nodded.
“Good luck.” Lucy said to them.
“Thanks.” Bobby walked out the door and Jack turned back to Sue.
“I’ll see you later.” He said with a smile and a wink.
Sue smiled back and Tara and Lucy both watched with barely concealed pleasure.
When Jack disappeared out the door Tara turned to Sue. “Is James as cute as that?” She asked with a daring smile, motioning to the hallway where Jack had just been.
Sue smiled back, accepting the challenge. “Not even close.” She answered.
Lucy and Tara smiled at each other, both thrilled and a little surprised that Sue had admitted it. Again, Sue laughed and rolled her eyes.
“Oh leave me alone. I didn’t get a lot of sleep last night. I’m tired.” She said.
Lucy and Tara laughed, but neither said anything.

Meanwhile, back in the conference room D, Myles, and James were working on the next step of the investigation.
“So the attack isn’t suppose to take place until next Friday night during the pledge ceremony. We need to find out who the attackers are before then without letting anyone know there is an investigation going on, or else the attackers will know that Melanie wasn’t the only one who knew about it.” D said.
“We need to get someone in there. Undercover is going to be our best option.” Myles added.
James nodded. “And this needs to be very low key. Our sponsors are very important and we can’t chance having them pull out if they find out the FBI is investigating a murder, at least until it is solved. It’s too big of a scandal.”
D and Myles agreed.
“I also have a suggestion.” He said hesitantly.
“What?” Myles asked curiously.
“My friend, Emily, in California is a Sigma Gama. All the guys at the house know about her and are constantly telling me I should make a move on her but I keep chickening out. I don’t want to screw up our friendship.” James told them.
“What does that have to do with anything?” Myles asked, a little annoyed.
“Emily and Sue look amazingly alike.” James said with a smile. “It can be your way in. I can tell the guys that Emily called and she’s coming for the weekend so we can spend time together. Sue can be Emily.”
D and Myles caught on and D shook his head. “But Sue is deaf.” He said.
James smiled bigger. “So is Emily.”
D looked at Myles, who looked back. “I don’t know.” He said.
“All she’d do is come hang out with me. Come to parties with the Pi Delts and because she’s a Sigma Gama the girls will accept her immediately. No questions asked. They all know about Emily anyway and they’ll be so happy that I finally made a move no one will suspect a thing.”
Myles looked back at D. “She’d get to know the guys and the girls and report back to us so we can do background checks and then she could tell us if she sees anyone saying anything incriminating. Simple stuff. She’d be out of there long before the attack.”
D thought for a minute and then stood. “I’ll go get Sue.” He said and walked out of the room.
James smiled triumphantly.

“So I’ll pretend to be Emily?” Sue turned to James, “You’re deaf girlfriend from California and I’ll give you guys information on the Sigma Gamas so you can do background checks?” She asked turning back to D and Myles.
“Exactly.” D said. “James can give us info on the Pi Deltas and then you’ll just hang out with him. Go to parties. Pretty much relive your college days and watch for anything suspicious.”
Sue nodded. “Sounds easy enough.” She said. “When do you want me to start?”
“Tomorrow.” D said and Sue nodded.
“I can tell everyone that you’re flying in around noon. We always have a lunch exchange with the Sigma Gams on Thursdays. I can introduce you to everyone there.” James said.
“I’m going to need to know more about Emily. Anything that you’ve told them.” Sue said and then she looked down. “And I’m going to need to go shopping.” She smiled.
“Shopping? Why?” Myles asked.
Sue motioned to her clothes. “Totally not Sigma Gama.” She said and James laughed.
“She’s right.” He said and nodded. He pulled out his wallet and handed Sue a picture. “This is Emily.”
Sue looked at the picture of a trendy, sexy blonde who, given the right clothes, makeup and hairstyle, could truly be Sue’s twin.
“Wow.” She said and handed the picture to D and Myles.
“That’s kind of freaky.” Myles said.
“I know.” James agreed as they handed him back the picture and he put it away. “I really do need to get to the chem lab but I can meet you tonight.” He said as he looked at his watch.
“Sounds good.” Sue said. “We can meet at my place. When will you be done at the lab?” She asked.
“Around nine probably.” James guessed.
“Ok.” D said. “Sue’s at nine thirty.”
“I’ll be there.” James said and Sue gave him the address.
When James left D turned to Sue. “Are you sure you want to do this?” He asked.
“Sure. Who knows? It might be fun.” She said with a smile as they walked into the bullpen. “Plus I get new clothes.”
D laughed and Sue motioned to Lucy. D nodded.
“Hey Luce?” Sue called and her friend looked up. “Wanna go shopping?”

“What did you find out?” Tara asked as Jack and Bobby returned from the library.
“Not a lot.” Bobby answered.
“Only one student saw anything and he’s the one that called 911. He says the car that hit Melanie was a black sports car, BMW he thinks. It was dark so he can’t be sure and he didn’t get a license plate number.” Jack added.
“I’ll see how many students have dark BMW’s.” Tara said and she got to work at her computer.
Jack looked around the room. “Where are Sue and Lucy?” He asked.
“Shopping.” Myles said dully from his desk.
“Shopping? Why?” Jack asked with the same confused expression Bobby had when he asked, “And for what?”
“Clothes. Sue’s going undercover.” D answered.
They all turned to Jack, secretly wondering but already knowing what his reaction would be.
“What?!” He blurted out tensely. They weren’t disappointed.
“Sue’s going undercover as James’ girlfriend, Emily, from California.” D said.
“No way.” Jack shook his head and threw his jacket onto his chair.
“Jack listen. She’s just going to meet the students and tell us who they are, go to a couple events with James, and watch for anything that can tell us who these attackers are.” D told him calmly.
“She’s not going in alone. If they find out who she is it could be dangerous.” Jack argued.
“She won’t be alone, James will be with her.” Tara said.
“Oh that makes me feel a lot better.” Jack said sarcastically. “How could he protect her if something happens?” He was really mad.
“She’ll be out of there before she’s in any danger. We know the attack isn’t even going to happen until next Friday. No one will suspect a thing. They all know about Emily. She’s deaf and a Sigma Gama. Sue’s deaf and a Sigma Gama.” D said. “And James showed us a picture of Emily. She looks just like Sue.”
Myles nodded. “It’s freaky.” He said again.
Jack was still shaking his head. “I don’t like it.” His jaw was tense.
“It sounds like a good plan.” Bobby said as he went to stand next to Jack. “She’ll be fine. You know how capable she is. Plus, she knows all the ins and outs of the sorority.”
“He’s right.” D said. “Sue knows what’s expected of her and she knows what dangers there could be and she’s agreed to do it. She can do it.”
“I know she can.” Jack sat down in his chair, defeated. “But I don’t like it.” He said angrily.
“We’re meeting James at Sue’s tonight at nine thirty so he can tell us about Emily and we’ll go over everything for tomorrow.” D said and he went to his desk.
Across the room Tara smiled. This case is getting pretty interesting. She thought as she looked at Jack, who ran a hand over his eyes in frustration. Pretty darn interesting.

Welcome and great post!
Can't wait for more!

WOW!! What a fantastic start to your first story! I really kinda like the changes that you've made in Sue. She's a bit more confident with herself and I like that. I have a feeling that green face of envy and jealously is quickly going to be making an appearance with Jack watching James and Sue! Can't wait to read more and hope you post quickly!

This is going to be SSOOOOOO good, I can feel it in my bones!!!! Or maybe I just know it's going to be really good! This James fellow is setting off minor warning bells in my head, I hope everything goes well. I loved jealous Jack!!! He's so funny. And as Tara said : It's going to be pretty darn interesting!

Can't wait for mroe!!

Jenny

welcome to the board

interesting first couple of posts

looking forward to more

cath

Just before nine Jack knocked on Sue and Lucy’s door. He wanted to talk to Sue before everyone else got there. Maybe if he was lucky he could talk her out of doing this and they could come up with another plan.
“Hey Jack.” Lucy said as she opened the door. “You’re a little early aren’t you?” She questioned as Jack walked through the door.
He shrugged. “I wanted to talk to Sue before everyone else gets here.” He said.
“Oh, well, she’s out jogging but she should be back any minute. She’s been gone just over and hour.” Lucy said. “I was just going to pick up some food.” She motioned to Levi. “Stay and hang out with Levi until she gets back.” She suggested and Levi barked.
“She didn’t take you with her?” Jack asked Levi and then he looked to Lucy with concern. It was late and dark and he didn’t like the idea of her being out there alone.
Lucy shrugged. “Sometimes she doesn’t.” She put on her jacket. “You boys have fun.” She said as she left.
Jack turned to Levi. “Well, it’s just you and me. What do you want to do?”
Levi jumped up onto the couch and pawed the remote. Jack turned to the tv with surprise when it turned on and he sat next to Levi.
“Baseball. All right!” He scratched behind Levi’s ear. “Great idea.”
Levi barked and rested his head on Jack’s knee.
Ten minutes later they both turned as the door opened and closed. Jack stood and waited for Sue to turn and see him. He leaned against the arm rest of the couch, folded his arms and simply watched her. She was wearing a black velour jogging suit and her hair was pulled back into a pony tail. Levi moved on the couch behind him and Jack looked down to find him giving him a strange look. He jumped off the couch and made his way to Sue. She stood when she saw him.
“Hey buddy.” She said and Jack froze as she removed her jacket, revealing a tight, white, racer back, spaghetti strap tank top.
A tank top that, when partnered with the low slung exercise pants she was wearing, showed off a good portion of her stomach. Her flat, tight, damn sexy stomach. Jack was suddenly very grateful Lucy wasn’t home to catch him openly staring at Sue for the second time in one day.
“Did you miss me?” She asked as she simultaneously turned and threw her jacket toward the couch.
She noticed Jack right as he caught it. He smiled at Sue’s shocked expression and sat the jacket on the back of the couch.
“I did miss you.” He flirted and Sue began to smile. “But Levi was good company.” He motioned toward the tv. “We were just watching the end of the Yankees, Red Socks game.”
Sue looked down at Levi. “You couldn’t wait until I got home? It’s taping.” She said and pointed at the tv. Levi barked. “Fine. But don’t tell me the score.” She said and she looked back up at Jack, who smiled bigger. He loved that she loved sports too.
She pointed at him. “You either.” She threatened jokingly.
Jack raised his hands in surrender and Sue smiled. He watched her as she walked into the kitchen, opened the fridge, and pulled out two bottled waters. She held one up to him, he nodded and caught it as she threw it to him and then took a long drink of her own water.
“Where’s Lucy?” She asked when she lowed the bottle from her lips.
“She went to pick up some food about ten minutes ago.” Jack answered as he opened his water and took a swallow.
Sue nodded and walked to him slowly. “Why are you so early? You knew Lucy was getting Chinese and you were hoping we’d share?” She asked and Jack smiled.
“That, and I wanted to talk to you.” He said.
Sue took another drink of her water. “About what?”
“About this case.” He said seriously.
“Jack...” She knew what was coming and she took a step closer to him so that they were only about a foot apart, Jack still leaning on the couch.
“I know you’re capable and I know you’re good, but don’t do this. Not alone.” Jack pleaded.
Sue tried to smile reassuringly. “This is the best plan, Jack. The safest plan for everyone.” She said.
“What if something goes wrong?” He asked. “You won’t have any back up. What if you get hurt and we’re not close enough?” He paused and looked into her eyes. “I’m not close enough?”
Sue closed her eyes. Hiding, for a second, from the intensity she could see in his, before she met them again. “We’ll just have to make sure nothing goes wrong.” She whispered.
Something shifted in Jack’s eyes that took Sue’s breath away. Something that pulled her toward him, yet he was the one that came closer when he stood and Sue bit her lip as she felt his hand brush her hip and then gently rest on it.
Jack opened his mouth to say something but whatever it was he had been planning to say was lost the second the front door opened and Levi took off to meet Lucy, who was just entering with the food, hitting Sue in the back of the legs with incredible speed, forcing Jack to catch her against his chest with both hands around her waist as she fell, gripping his shoulders.
And this is how Lucy caught them.
After staring with wide eyes and an open mouth for a half a second she regained her composure and smiled before she turned to the kitchen and said, “I got extra Jack. I figured you’d want some.”
“Yeah.” Jack said as he and Sue finally moved. “Yeah, thanks.” He let go of Sue as she stood back up and covered her eyes with one hand and laughed. She then looked up at Jack with a dazzling smile.
“Sorry.” She signed and mouthed,
Jack smiled back, his eyes lighting up. “I think Levi’s hungry.” He said and laughed.
“You think?” Sue rolled her eyes and laughed with him and Jack followed her to the kitchen where Lucy was dishing up food with a girlie grin plastered to her face.

“Well, I guess we better let you get some sleep.” D said to Sue as he looked at his watch.
It was getting close to one.
Jack watched as Sue stretched and smiled up at D from her position on the floor. He sat on the couch behind her and to the left.
“Don’t you remember being a college student?” She asked. “We don’t sleep.” She teased causing everyone to laugh and she leaned back into the couch, her shoulder resting against Jack’s knee.
James stood from where he was sitting across the coffee table from Sue and gathered up all his pictures. “As true as that is, I’m exhausted.” He looked down at Sue and signed. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“See you.” Sue signed back and Lucy led James to the door.
“Yeah. Good luck pretending to be his girlfriend.” Tara said to Sue sarcastically when Lucy came back into the living room.
“I told you he was good looking.” Lucy said to Tara.
“I still don’t see it.” Bobby said as he stood and finished off the coke he’d been working on, handing the can to Lucy who was gathering the other empty cans with a garbage bag. “Emily, on the other hand, is one incredible looking shelia.” He winked at Sue.
None of them could get over how identical they were.
Sue smiled up at Bobby and then reached a hand out to Jack, who stood and pulled her up with him. She tugged down the jacket she had put back on when the others had arrived and stepped out from behind the coffee table with Jack’s hand on the small of her back. D, Myles, and Bobby walked to the door.
“You coming mate?” Bobby asked.
“Yeah.” Jack looked at Sue. “I’ll see you in the morning.” He said and Sue could see the defeat, knowing he couldn’t talk her out of this assignment, in his eyes.
She smiled at him reassuringly until he smiled back with reluctant acceptance.
“Good night.” She said and Jack turned to meet the others at the door.
“Tara?” Myles said. She hadn’t moved from her chair.
“I’m going to check out what Sue and Lucy bought today. You guys go.” She said and waved.
“See you in the morning!” Lucy yelled from the kitchen and the guys yelled back as they left the apartment.
Sue shut the door behind them and turned to Lucy and Tara who were staring at her with funny smiles.
“What?” She asked with confusion.
“Nothing.” Lucy shook her head. “Let’s show Tara what we got today.” She said.
And with one last suspicious look at them Sue turned and made her way to her room.
“Did you see those looks between them all night?” Tara asked as she and Lucy followed Sue.
Lucy nodded excitedly. “You should have seen them when I got home.”
Tara’s eyes got wide.
They both turned and laughed when Sue said, “Stop it you two.” without turning around.

sue even knows whe they are talking behind thereback i love it.....but why didn't you let them kiss....i was holding my breath and then...... not funny

This is great. Welcome to the world of writing!!!!

kav

Really enjoying the story! I just love the confidence you are giving Sue....it's a breath of fresh air! It's still her, but with a little tweak! Can't wait to read more. And yes....that is my not so subtle hint that you post quickly!

Welcome, LittleEm

I'm definitely enjoying this story. A little competition will do Jack a lot of good!


gracie

Yeah, like the going undercover as a college student!!!!! This is going to be so good, I can't wait for mroe!!

jenny

Thanks for all the comments - You guys are awesome!!! Here's the next part...
Em

************

“I wonder what our demure Miss Thomas will present us with this fine morning.” Myles said as he walked back to his desk from the coffee machine the next morning.
Sue and Lucy were the only ones that had not yet arrived.
“Well Howie said she’s got great legs.” Bobby noted and Myles nodded his head with recollection.
At his desk, Jack’s head shot up. “What?” He asked.
Bobby turned to him. “Yesterday, before you got here, when Howie was filling us in on the morning’s events he mentioned that Sue has great legs.”
Jack shook his head with disdain. Bobby raised his eyebrows at this and couldn’t help but provoke his best friend. He knew that look in Jack’s eyes.
“Are you saying she doesn’t have great legs?” He challenged and Bobby beamed at the threatening look Jack gave him. “They’re that good?”
Jack’s face cracked slightly as he mumbled, “You have no idea.” and turned back to his desk.
Tara watched this all with delight from her desk and Bobby turned to her with a triumphant smile. “You saw what they bought, Tara. What do you think?”
Tara could see Jack out of the corner of her eye, eagerly awaiting her answer. “Believe me,” she said with a smile. “She’s going to be hot.”
Bobby turned his triumphant smile to Jack, who said, “Ok. That’s enough.” They couldn’t be having this conversation when Sue walked in.
Bobby chuckled but turned back to his desk. Behaving for now.
It didn’t last long because when Sue, Levi, and Lucy walked in a couple minutes later and Bobby saw the dumbfounded, bug eyed look on Jack’s face he stood and clapped, followed closely by Tara, D, and Myles.
Sue turned to Lucy, who was laughing, with surprise before she turned back to the others.
“Thanks. I think.” She said with and embarrassed laugh when they didn’t stop. “Ok, knock it off.” She said, still laughing. She rolled her eyes when they still didn’t stop. “Seriously, sit down.” By then they were all laughing.
All except for Jack, who was still sitting at his desk. Stunned.
Sue was dressed in a tight white baby tee with short cap sleeves, covered with a tight black sweater vest, leading down to a tiny black mini skirt, showing off the aforementioned incredible legs, and black stiletto boots. Her hair was pulled to the side and loosely braided, the braid hanging over her shoulder. Her make up was slightly darker but still complimented her natural beauty so well that you could hardly tell. It only made her look sexier.
She turned to Tara who was still laughing and she shrugged. “I told them you’d look hot but I don’t think they knew quite what to expect.” She explained.
“No kidding.” Myles said. “ I think you look better in person that you do in your pictures.” He referred to the pictures of Emily and Sue laughed, surprised at Myles’ uncharacteristic compliment.
“Do you think you’ll still be able to focus on the case when all the frat boys are vying for your attention?” D teased.
“Do you think we’ll be able to focus on the case with you here?” Bobby asked almost seriously.
Sue blushed attractively. “Ok. You all have to stop talking.” She said and finally turned to Jack, breaking him out of his trance. “So what do you think? Can I pull this off?” She asked with a timid smile.
Jack nodded. “You’ll pull it off.” He assured her.
“Yeah?” She smiled bigger when Jack finally smiled.
“Oh yeah.” He said.

When Sue left with James at noon Bobby walked over to Jack’s desk where he was sitting with a distressed frown.
“You all right mate?” He asked.
“I’m fine.” Jack sighed. “I just don’t like that she’s going in alone. I wish I could go with her.” He admitted.
Bobby smiled. “As what? Her body guard?” He then nodded seriously when Jack gave him a severe look. “You’re right. She might need it. That’s one incredible body.”
He smiled and slapped Jack on the back when he lowered his head with an agreeing groan.

“I don’t know how I functioned in college.” Sue said from where she was veging on the floor in the hotel suite adjoining hers.
They had just finished going over everything Sue had learned that day and the white board they had set up in the living room area was covered with pictures of each member of the sorority and fraternity, along with their name, who their parents were, their year in college and anything else Sue and James could add, such as their majors, who was graduating in two weeks, and who they were dating. Sue even added that a few of the girls new sign, making it easy for them to communicate because Emily was not oral. The team was set to do back ground checks on all of them tomorrow. It was a little after two. James had left around eleven. His last final was at eight the next morning, when Sue was suppose to meet the other Sigma Gams for breakfast and a morning of shopping before some of them had finals, and Tara, Lucy, Myles, and D had just left to go home.
“I don’t remember ever worrying about sleep and right now it’s the only thing I can think about.” Sue said.
Bobby laughed from the door he had just shut after the others and Jack smiled down at her from where he ws lounging on the couch.
“I think that’s why we have naps when we’re kids and why we go to bed so early when we’re old. To make up for all the sleep we miss out on in college.” Bobby said and this time Sue laughed. “And on that note, good night.” He said and went to one of the two rooms.
“Good night.” Jack and Sue both echoed.
Sue turned her head and looked at the open doorway leading to her room, then down to Levi, where he was lying with his head on her stomach, and then back to the door and back to Levi.
“Come on boy.” She said and Levi stood, his tail waging readily.
Sue sat up slowly. “How do you have so much energy?” She asked. “Don’t you know what time it is?”
“He had a few naps by your desk today.” Jack said as he stood and offered Sue his hands. She thankfully took them and he slowly pulled her up.
She looked down at Levi accusingly. “Traitor.” She said and he whined.
Jack followed them to the doorway and Sue turned to look at him before stepping through.
“I’ll send Levi through to wake you guys up when I leave.” She joked.
“Thanks.” Jack laughed. “We might actually need it.” He said as he leaned his head and body onto the door frame.
Sue smirked and followed Levi into their suite where she locked the front door and turned off the main light, casting the room in a soft glow coming from a lamp in the corner. She turned back to where Jack stood watching her, a content look on his face. And blaming her sleep deprived mind, Sue looked deep into Jack’s eyes and then to his lips, craving their touch and she licked her own, unconsciously catching her bottom lip between her teeth. She blinked slowly and met his eyes again. A slow, enticing smile formed on her lips when she saw the fire burning in them.
“Good night, Jack.” She whispered and walked across the suite, disappearing into her room with Levi.
Jack closed his eyes and turned back into his suite. He blew out a slow breath and ran a hand over his eyes as he lazily made his way to his room. He shut off the lights as he went, making sure he didn’t look back to the open door, knowing that if he did, the temptation to go through it would be too strong for him to resist.

ohh come on jack just make a move already....with all those sorority guys hanging on sue's lips you are in for a wild ride,she isn't going to wait for ever you know

I did post a reply, but I think i posted it at the same time as yannick in my heart, so mine got deleted. I said:Some very intricate writing there, LittleEm! I loved how you got into the heads of all the characters!!!

Jenny

Been busy so I got behind but I'm caught up and I really love this story Em! I think it obviously makes sense for Sue to go undercover as Emily - plus I love seeing a jealous Jack!

Great story! Can't wait for more

Sue stepped out of the bedroom the next morning, ready to leave. She had to admit, she looked pretty good. She was wearing dark, navy, low rise flares and a light pink tank top. She had on light pink stiletto sandals and her hair was down straight with her bangs pulled back into a silver barrette that matched her silver earrings, necklace, and bracelets. She noticed a light coming from Bobby and Jack’s suite and Levi had already made his way through the door. By the time Sue walked through, Bobby, who had obviously ordered room service, was tossing Levi a piece of sausage.
“I didn’t expect to see you up already.” She said and Bobby looked at her.
“I got hungry.” He said with a shrug and Sue nodded with a knowing smile.
“Is Jack still asleep?” She asked and Bobby pointed to the bathroom.
“He’s in the shower.” He answered.
Sue smiled at him. “He must have smelled the food.
Bobby smirked. “Either that or he wanted to see you before you left. I’ll be sure to tell him you look gorgeous.” He said with a sly smile.
Sue rolled her eyes. “Not you too.”
Bobby just nodded and smiled.
“I’ll see you this afternoon.” She said and she walked back into her suite and then yelled. “Don’t feed Levi any bacon.” And she grabbed her purse and left.
“Why can’t you have bacon?” Bobby asked as he looked down at Levi.
“Did I hear Sue?” Jack asked as he walked out of the bathroom, towel drying his hair.
“You just missed her Sparky.” Bobby said and then he looked at Jack. “Do you know why Levi can’t have bacon?”
Jack shrugged. “How long ago did she leave?” He asked.
“About two minutes after you shut off the shower.” Bobby laughed at Jack’s disappointed look. “Don’t worry mate, you’ll see her this afternoon.”
“I know. I just...” Jack trailed off as he walked toward his room.
“Wanted to see her.” Bobby finished for him. “I know.” He then smiled mischievously. “Too bad you missed her though. She looked amazing.”
“She always does.” Jack said back with defeat.
Bobby smiled with victory and threw Levi a piece of bacon.

When Sue got back to the hotel at three that afternoon the team was already waiting next door.
“Wow. What did you buy?” Lucy asked when they saw Sue carry in about six bags.
“A lot.” Sue said seriously and then in answer to Lucy’s unasked question she said, “I had to keep up.”
She sat the bags on the couch and then walked with Lucy to where the others were waiting. She smiled when she saw Bobby sitting on the couch with Levi pretty much laying across his lap.
“I told you not to give him bacon.” She said and Jack laughed.
Bobby looked down at Levi accusingly. “That’s why you’ve been following me around all day?”
“He even followed him into the bathroom.” Myles said and everyone laughed.
Jack cleared his throat and hoped that he’d be able to talk. Seeing Sue in her outfit was causing his brain to fail. He prayed that it was only temporary.
Sue kicked off her shoes and sat down on the couch next to Tara, curling her legs up underneath her and Jack noticed, when he figured the safest place to look was at her feet, that her toes had the same white french tips as her fingers.
Is it weird that I find that sexy? He silently wondered.
“So other than their high endurance for shopping, what else did you find out about the girls.” Jack finally asked.
Sue smiled and agreed with his assessment. “Well...” She began and pointed to one of the girls’ picture on the board. “Lily and Jonathan...” She pointed to his picture. “...had a fight last night. Apparently he slept with Jonah’s sister, Celeste, who was in town last weekend. And as of noon today they are officially broken up.” She then pointed to another girl on the board. “Alexia has a secret crush on Ben, who is best friends with Crystal, and she is setting them up for tomorrow nights Green and Gold Ball.” She said.
“What is the Green and Gold Ball?” D asked.
“It’s like prom.” Sue explained. “Guys wear tuxes, girls wear gowns. It’s held at a country club. There’s dancing and they have waiters passing around champaign and o’hordurves. It’s the last extravagant party before pledge week and graduation.”
“I’m sure the country club wouldn’t mind a little extra help. I say we pull out our aprons.” D said. “It would be the perfect time for a little added surveillance.”
“Oh boy. I haven’t been to a college party since, well, college.” Tara joked.
Sue smiled. “What did you guys find out?” She asked and Jack stood and moved some of the pictures around, placing six aside from the rest. Three boys and three girls.
“Mostly these kids are your typical college students. Although most have powerful parents and lots of money.” He said motioning to the majority of the pictures. “These six, however, are a little different. They don’t have prominent parents and these four...” He pointed to the three boys and one girl. “...are from outside of the US. The other two have parents from other countries.” He went on, explaining their backgrounds along with all they had learned about their parents.
“So the next chance you get, see what you can get from them.” Jack said to Sue.
“Ok.” She agreed with a nod. “I’m going to a party tonight with James at eight. They should all be there.”
Jack nodded silently.
“Is it a frat party?” Bobby asked with amusement.
“Yes. It’s a frat party.” Sue knew what was coming next.
“Now Thomas.” Myles started. “No drinking, no drugs, no sex, and you better be home by twelve. If we show up tomorrow morning for our meeting and you have a hangover...”
“Or company.” Tara interrupted with a laugh.
“Or you’re not even here.” Bobby added.
“Then I think we’re going to have to rethink this undercover operation on account of you’re having too much fun and this is suppose to be work.” Lucy finished and they all laughed.
“You guys are so funny.” Sue said playing along. “Maybe you should talk to my ‘boyfriend’ so he can make sure I stay out of trouble.”
They all busted up laughing again. Except for Jack who rolled his eyes, trying desperately not to look as jealous as he was feeling.
“I’ve also been invited to go to the spa tomorrow at noon with the girls to get ready for tomorrow night.” Sue told them.
“So we’ll meet here at eight before you leave.” D decided and he stood. “You better get ready for your date.” He said and then smiled playfully. “And be good.”
Sue laughed. “Yes sir.”
“I’ll see you all in the morning. I’ve got to get home. Donna’s parents are coming over for dinner and she’ll kill me if I’m late.” He said and everyone waved as he went out the door.
“So what are you wearing tonight?” Tara asked Sue.
“The sexy little black dress, of course.” Lucy blurted before Sue could even answer. “Did you see it?” She asked Tara and they made their way to Sue’s room.
“Sexy little black dress huh?” Jack said as Sue stood.
“I guess.” She laughed.
Bobby and Myles were putting on their jackets. “Hey Sue, we’re going to grab some food. Do you girls want us to bring you anything back?” Bobby asked and he turned to Sue’s room when he heard Tara yell, “Of course we do!”
He looked back at Sue.
“They said yes?” She guessed right and Bobby nodded. “Then you better bring back food.” She said. “I’ve got to go get ready.”
Jack watched as she picked up her shoes and went to her room, laughing when she saw Levi at Bobby’s side.
“Let’s go Sparky.” Bobby yelled and Jack followed them out.

When James came to pick Sue up that night she was still back in her room with Lucy. Jack, Bobby, and Levi were watching ESPN highlights on tv in the boys room. Tara answered the door when he knocked and let him in.
“She’s just about ready.” She said and then followed him in to join Jack and Bobby.
“Hey guys.” He said and when he saw what they were watching he sat. “Did they report the score of the Yankees/Braves game yet?” He asked.
“Yankees won, 7 to 4.” Jack answered and then his eyes froze on the doorway as Sue stepped through.
She caught his gaze and smiled when he didn’t move or look away.
James and Bobby both turned to see what had come over Jack and Sue saw Bobby whistle and James stood, signing. “You look incredible.”
“Thank you.” She signed back.
She was dressed in a low cut v-neck, sleeveless black dress that reached just past her knees. Black ribbons criss crossed from her back to her stomach and then around again, meeting low on her left hip where the loose skirt opened with a ruffle lined slit. She wore black strappy stiletto sandals and black and silver jewelry. Her hair was parted on the side and half was pulled back while the rest hung straight and loose down her back.
Bobby and Jack stood and Bobby smiled when Sue looked back at Jack and he whispered, “You’re beautiful.”
Her eyes lit up with her smile and she blushed adorably.
“Are you ready to go?” James said and signed and Sue pulled her eyes from Jack’s.
“I’m ready.” She said and James lead her to the door with a hand between her shoulders.
Sue turned back to the others just as James opened it.
“Have fun.” Lucy and Tara said.
“Be good.” Bobby teased. “James, watch her.”
Sue rolled her eyes when he promised to and she looked at Jack.
“Be careful.” He said and she could see his concern.
“I will.” She signed.
She turned and left with James.
When the door closed Jack turned to Lucy.
“You couldn’t get her a dress a little less...” He stopped with a hand motion.
“Sexy?” Lucy finished.
Jack’s brows shot up and he nodded once as if saying, “Exactly.”
“Come on Jack.” Lucy said with an exasperated laugh. “She’s got it. Why not flaunt it?”
“Because she’s going to a frat party.” Jack answered and when Bobby, Tara, and Lucy all looked at him, not understanding, he explained with a frustrated sigh. “A frat party with a bunch of...” he paused, “enthusiastic college guys.” They all looked at him with smiles, their eyes filled with amusement. “What?” He asked. How are they not understanding the seriousness of this?
“Enthusiastic college guys who will do something about it?” Tara asked.
“Exactly.” Jack said. Maybe they do understand.
Bobby put his hand on Jack’s shoulder. “Maybe you should do something about it.” He said and Jack looked at him with a surprised expression.
He turned to Lucy and Tara who were both looking at him and nodding in agreement with Bobby.
Jack sat with a defeated sigh. “Maybe.” He finally admitted.
Levi barked.
“I know.” Jack said and he scratched Levi’s head.

Jack jerked awake when he felt Levi jump from his place next to Jack on the couch and he turned to let his eyes follow him. By the light of the tv he could see Sue in the doorway, leaning her shoulder against the frame, watching him with a smile.
“Hey.” He said quietly as he rubbed his eyes and stood, flipping on the lamp sitting on the end table. “What time is it?” He asked as he turned off the tv and walked toward her.
“Just after four.” She whispered. “What are you doing on the couch?”
“I was watching a movie with Levi and I must have fallen asleep.” He stopped right in front of her. “How was the party?”
“It was long.” She said with a small smile and rested her head above her shoulder.
“You look tired.” He whispered and when he lightly brushed her cheek with his fingers she closed her eyes.
“I am tired.” She sighed and he cupped her jaw as she opened her eyes.
They stared at each other for a moment until Jack said, “You should try to get some sleep.” Sue reached up and brushed his hand. “I’ll see you in a few hours.” He whispered and they grasped hands.
Sue took a step back.
“Good night.” She said and took another step back.
“Good night.” He said and she turned, letting go of his hand and followed Levi into her bedroom.
Jack turned back into his suite with a peaceful smile on his face and clicked off the lamp, finally on the way to his bed.

I just wanted to let you know how much I love the long posts!!!

I LOVED Jack's answer to Bobby's question. Now let's see if he actually follows through on it! For your first story, this is absolutely fantastic!

Yeah Jack, do something about it! another brilliant post!

Don't waste anymore time, Jack!

Get a move on, please

LittleEm - This is just great.


gracie

WOW. This is just super LittleEm!!!!! Can't wait for more!!!!!!!!

Jenny

This is so brill Em. I love it! And the last little bit on that last post was just so great. I'd say it's high time for Jack to finally do something about it and maybe something good will come out of this jealousy.

“I’m sorry.” Sue said as she walked through the door at ten after eight.
She was dressed in black gauchos and a low black v-neck shirt covering a white tank top trimmed with lace, but her face was clean of make up and her hair was wet.
Jack just stared. How can someone be so beautiful?
“You’re not hung over are you?” Myles asked.
Before Sue could answer, Bobby jumped in. “I bet having a hang over when you’re deaf is a lot better than when you can hear. No loud noises.”
Everyone turned to him with strange looks and Sue just laughed and nodded.
“I bet. But no, I don’t have a hang over.” She said as she sat a small bag and mirror on the coffee table and threw her black stiletto sandals on the floor next to the couch. “Levi needed to go out at five and then when the alarm went off at seven he decided he needed more sleep and didn’t wake me up.” She said looking at him accusingly. “I don’t know how he turned the alarm off.” Levi lowered his head in shame. “Luckily I woke up twenty minutes ago on my own, otherwise someone would have had to come wake me up.”
She sat on the floor in front of the couch. Tara handed her a cup of coffee and Sue signed, “Thank you.”
“So you didn’t get drunk.” Myles said and then glanced into Sue’s suite. “Apparently you didn’t bring anyone back to your room.” He looked at her eyes. “Not dilated. Very good Thomas. Did you make it home by your twelve o’clock curfew?”
Sue nodded. “Close.”
“How close?” Lucy asked with a smile when it was obvious that Sue was lying.
“Fourish.” Sue answered.
“Fourish before four or fourish after four?” Lucy asked, the amused smile still on her face.
“Fourish after four, mom.” Sue said with and eye roll and everyone laughed.
Tara’s eyes got big. “How much sleep did you get?”
“Not enough.” Sue answered and then smiled at Jack. “I could go back to bed if we’re not going to work.”
He smiled back.
“Ok, ok. We get the point. We’ll get all those details later.” Lucy said.
“Ok. So what did you learn at the party last night?” Bobby asked Sue.
“Well...” She said as she set the mirror up on the coffee table and opened the make up bag.
She pulled out some lotion and delicately smoothed it over her face, unaware that Jack was forcing himself to look anywhere but at her, afraid that he would become transfixed and be unable to look away.
“Lindsey isn’t one of our attackers. She’s leaving tomorrow night for France. She’s going to miss pledge week because she’s going to be back packing in the French Alps with her cousins.”
Lindsey’s parents were both French. Sue looked away from her mirror as Jack stood and moved Lindsey’s picture from the group of six suspects.
“What about the other two girls?” He asked as he turned back to her.
“Nela’s quiet. Doesn’t say a lot. She seems shy but I don’t know.” Sue said and she looked back to the mirror and continued applying her make up. “Could be an act.”
She turned her head to the side and ran her fingers through her drying hair. Hair that was somehow drying into luscious curls. Jack was mesmerized and then a little confused when Sue gave a frustrated sigh before she continued.
“Simone, on the other hand, is excessively outgoing. Always the life of the party.” Sue started to laugh. “Last night she started this game where one person does a body shot and then...” She stopped when she noticed everyone’s startled expressions. “Sorry.” She shook her head, apologizing for getting off track. “She seems to like everyone and everyone likes her. I did see her talking to Ethan.” She said referring to one of the three guys. “But I was too far away and it was too dark for me to read anything they were saying. By the time I got closer they had separated.” She said.
She then pointed to another of the three guys.
“I don’t think Tek is our guy. He and James were talking last night and Tek told him that he’s asked his long time girlfriend, Leah, back in Greece to marry him and after graduation he is going home to get married before bringing her back and starting his new job at a very prestigious advertising firm in New York, Bower and Hoffman. He was so excited and so happy.”
Jack turned from the board to see Sue apply the last of her make up. His eyes zeroed in on her lips as she slowly ran the tip of her ring finger over them, leaving a glistening trail. He couldn’t take his eyes off her until something hit him in the chest. He looked down to see one of the couch pillows at his feet and then to Bobby, who obviously threw it, staring at him with a knowing smile.
Bobby turned back to Sue, who had looked away from the mirror when she had seen the movement, with the same smile and asked, “What about our last guy, Ramone?”
Sue glanced at Jack when he threw the pillow back onto the couch.
“He wasn’t there last night. But he will be at the ball. He’s Amy’s date.” She said.
“Great job, Sue.” D said as he stood and walked to stand next to Jack at the board. “Let’s go over the plan for tonight.” He said and Jack took over, explaining each team members responsibility.
“So we’ll all be on COMs so we can communicate.” Jack said and then he looked at Sue. “I’ll have you a mic before you leave tonight. Any questions?” He asked everyone.
“Just one.” Bobby said. “What was this body shot game?” He asked Sue.
“I have the same question.” D agreed,
At the same time both Tara and Lucy said, “Me too.”
“And I’d also like to add: Did you play?” Myles finished.
D, Tara, Lucy, and Bobby all nodded. “Yeah.” They agreed.
As curious as the rest, Jack turned to Sue and waited for her answer. She hesitated and then smiled as she looked at her watch.
“The girls are going to be here in twenty minutes. I’ve got to finish getting ready.” She said.
Everyone laughed and Lucy said to Tara and Sue, “We’ll talk later.”
Sue looked in the mirror and ran her fingers through her curls.
“I guess we’re going curly today.” She said with defeat as she pulled her hair back into a messy bun at the nape of her neck.
“I keep telling you to wear it curly sometimes. It looks great.” Lucy complimented.
“It looks big.” Sue argued.
“It does not.” Lucy tried to assure her. “It looks perfect.”
Jack had to agree.
“I always wanted curly hair exactly like that.” Tara said seriously, pointing to Sue.
“Everyone says that unless they have to straighten it everyday.” Sue rolled her eyes and reached for her shoes, sliding her feet into them.
“I don’t know how you can wear shoes like that.” Bobby protested with a shake of his head. “Don’t they kill your feet?”
Sue smiled. “You get used to it.” Then she lifted her foot and smiled as she looked at it. “Plus, look how cute they are.”
Bobby just shook his head again when the girls agreed with Sue and he turned to the guys for support. They all shrugged and Jack motioned to Sue’s feet.
“You have to admit, they look great.” He said with a shy, almost embarrassed smile.
Sue looked back at Bobby with a triumphant grin.
“But they’ve got to hurt.” He argued.
Sue stood and looked down at her feet. “Yeah.” She admitted and then smiled. “But look at them.”
Everyone laughed and Bobby finally gave in.
“Ok. We’ve got to get to the office.” D said and Myles, Bobby, Tara, and Lucy stood.
Lucy clipped on Levi’s leash and they all walked to the door.
“Have a good time at the spa.” Lucy said and Sue nodded. “We’ll see you later.”
“Bye guys.” Sue said and she picked up her make up bag and mirror and took them back to her bathroom and grabbed her purse.
When she walked back out everyone was gone but Jack.
“Are you going to be ok today?” He asked as he held the door open for her and they walked down the hall and entered the elevator. “I know you’re tired.”
“I’ll be fine.” Sue said with a smile. His concern was incredibly sweet. “If I were lucky I wouldn’t have to spy and I could fall asleep while getting a massage.”
Jack smiled and they stepped out of the elevator into the lobby. Jack turned to face her.
“You’ll get lucky later.” He said and when he realized how that sounded he stopped.
Sue’s eyebrows shot up with interest. “You think?” She asked.
“I mean, you’ll be lucky later, after the ball, because you’ll be able to get some sleep.” He corrected, looking down at his feet.
“Oh.” Sue said with a smile, knowing that’s what he’d meant but having too much fun watching him squirm. “Too bad.” She added, managing to sound disappointed, perhaps because she kind of was, and she smiled at him when Jack’s head shot up with a stunned, yet hungry look.
Over Jack’s shoulder Sue saw the girls enter the lobby and head in their direction, wondering out loud who Jack was. Not wanting them to see her speak or sign, Sue reached up, placing her hand on the back of Jack’s neck, her fingers playing with his hair, and brought her lips to the corner of his mouth.
“They’re here and they’ve seen us. They want to know who you are.” She whispered.
She moved her head so that their foreheads were touching and she could still see Jack’s lips.
Now understanding Sue’s move, Jack placed his hands on her hips.
“Can I get out without them seeing my face?” He asked.
“If you get back on the elevator.” Sue answered.
“Do they know you’ve seen them?” He asked as he reached behind her and pushed the button.
The elevator doors opened.
“I don’t think - “
Before she could finish, Jack crushed his lips to hers and pushed her back into the elevator, keeping his back to the girls and kissing her deeply until the doors slid shut and they felt the elevator move.
Unwillingly, they both pulled apart. Their breaths ragged and their faces mere inches apart.
“I bet that worked.” Sue said with a shaky laugh and they both opened their eyes.
Jack smiled and shrugged. “I couldn’t think of anything else.”
And adorable blush covered Sue’s cheeks and she smiled up at him.
The elevator dinged, the doors opened and a woman got in as Jack let go of Sue and stepped out.
“You should get back down there.” He said. “I’ll leave in a few minutes.”
“Ok.” Sue hit the button to take her back down to the lobby.
“I’ll see you when you get back.” Jack said as the doors closed.
The lady smiled over at Sue. “Wow.” She said.
Sue smiled and nodded. “I know.”
When the doors opened again, there stood the Sigma Gamas, every one of them with wide eyes and curious smiles. Sue stepped out, trying to look surprised at seeing them.
“Emily, who was that guy?” Brooke, one of the girls, signed.
“You saw that?” Sue signed back.
“Yeah?” Brooke replied. “That was hot!”
The other girls smiled and agreed. Sue smiled and blushed.
“Seriously, who was that?” She signed again.
“A friend from California.” Sue answered. “I didn’t know he was coming.” She paused. “Please don’t tell James.”
“Don’t worry. We won’t. We’re sisters.” Brooke signed.
“Thank you.” They turned to leave the hotel.
“We didn’t see his face.” Brooke admitted. “How gorgeous is he?” She asked and Sue laughed.
“You can’t even imagine.” She signed back and all the girls sighed and laughed as they made their way to the spa.

Jack is just too gorgeous for words....

I love the way Jack and Sue think on their feet!

The connection/chemistry between them is just


gracie

Definately have to agree to agree to this, the guy should come with a hazard warning!!

Sue and Jack are getting good at that diversion tactic Keep the brilliance coming LittleEm!

Hey guys! Again, thank you for the comments... You're great! I have a minute so I thought I'd post the next part. Sorry, it's a shorty! More for sure tomorrow.

Em

***********

“Ok.” Lucy said as she and Levi walked from one suite into the next. “Sue’s almost ready.”
She looked around at all the others, excluding Tara, in their waiter suits. Black pants, white dress shirts, black vests and black ties with black aprons tied around their waists.
“You guys look great.” She said.
“Thanks.” Bobby accepted the complement.
“We better get going.” D said. “James will be here any minute to pick up Sue and we’ve got to be at the country club before all the kids.”
They all grabbed their COMs and headed to the door except Jack.
“I’m going to take Sue her mic. I’ll be right down.” He said and he picked up the necklace housing the mic and disappeared into Sue’s room.
“I hope she’s finished getting dressed.” Lucy joked and everyone laughed as they headed down to the lobby.

When Jack walked into Sue’s bedroom he was blown away. She stood in front of a full length mirror dressed in a long, silky red gown. The front dipped into a low v held up by tiny red spaghetti straps and the back dipped even lower, the v meeting at the small of her back. He hair was curled and delicately pinned at the nape of her neck. She looked indescribably gorgeous. She was looking down, trying to fasten the bracelet, that matched the necklace Jack was holding, around her wrist.
When she saw his reflection in the mirror she turned around.
“Jack. I need help.” She said with an amused pout and she held up the bracelet.
He smiled and walked toward her, sitting the necklace on the dresser to his left. He took the bracelet from her hands and she held up her wrist.
“Let me see.” He said and he placed it around her wrist and fastened it.
“Thank you.” She said. “I couldn’t do it with only one hand.”
Jack picked up the necklace and motioned for her to turn around.
“We put the mic in the ruby. We’ll be able to hear anything you say.” She saw him say in the mirror.
She reached up and lightly touched the stone and nodded as Jack clipped it around her neck. Their eyes met in their reflections and Jack slowly lowered his hands from the necklace, his fingers lightly stroking Sue’s back from her neck all the was down to where her skin met her dress. He felt her shiver.
“Thank you.” She whispered and Jack turned her around to face him.
He openly let his eyes roam over her body. “Wow.” He breathed. “You’re gorgeous.”
But even as he said it, it sounded trite. She was so much more than simply gorgeous. He tried to convey that to her through his eyes.
She smiled, tucking a lose ringlet behind her ear and then signing, “Thank you.”
They continued staring into one another's eyes until Jack turned away.
“James is here.” He explained and Sue nodded.
Grabbing her matching clutch, they both walked to the front door and Jack opened it.
“Hey Jack.” James said. “The others told me to tell you they’re waiting.”
Jack nodded with annoyance. “I know.” He said and turned to Sue. “I’ll see you in a little bit.”
She nodded and smiled and Jack shut the door behind him just as James was signing that Sue looked unbelievable. He really hated that guy.

Maybe it will prompt Jack to do something about it?...
I've been reading your wonderful story! I just haven't had much time to post with finals week...

jack certainly is too gorgeous for words and i hope he is going to do more than give her a diversion kiss on the lips

cath

Awww Jack... don't hold back. Act on your feelings NOW! Please...

I have to say: I'm with Cath, Em. ( is it okay if i call you that?)

Those were some lovely posts!!!! So much talent!!!!

Jenny

Uh....hello....Jack, talk about your oppotune time to give Ms. Thomas a kiss!! Loving the story Em!

Em, this is absolutely great! I loved the interaction when the whole team was together. The way Jack was watching Sue put on her makeup. The argument about the shoes (cute always comes at a price! ) The "quick thinking" by Jack and Sue. That last little bit between the two in Sue's room. This is just so great. I hope everything goes smoothly at the ball...

I hope Jack and Sue will have another kiss that's not case related...and soon!
this is going great Em!

Jack stop thinking and do something, before James does!

Great post, can't wait for more!!

Ok - here is the next post - as promised... I may be able to post a little bit more later tonight - depending on life... Thanks to everyone for the awesome feed back - I love it!

Em

**********************

“Sue’s here.” Tara said over the COMs when she and Lucy saw Sue and James enter the country club on the monitors they were watching in the security room.
“Finally.” Jack said with an irritated voice. “Where have they been? He picked her up over an hour ago.”
He scanned the room trying to catch a glimpse of her.
“Maybe they went out to get some dinner or something.” Tara said.
Myles walked over to them and offered them some champaign and they shared a knowing smile.
Sue walked around the party. Sometimes with James, who would translate, sometimes with Brooke and sometimes on her own. She kept a watchful eye on the four suspects. The rest of the team knew they shouldn’t be surprised that Sue seemed to fit right in with these people. She was a sorority girl after all. They watched as she worked the room, “talking”, flirting, dancing, and honestly having a good time. She was charming, and funny and everyone was drawn to her. They loved her. How could they not?
A couple of hours into the party the team heard Tara over the COMs.
“I think Sue has something.” She said as she watched Sue excuse herself from a group and she lowered her head, bringing her hand up to her necklace, discreetly flipping on the mic.
“It’s Nela and Ramone.” They heard her say.
The team kept their distance but moved to where they could see both Nela and Ramone without blowing their cover or being obvious.
Sue moved closer, watching their lips. Her heart started to race at what she saw. The two split up as Sue’s voice could be heard through the COMs.
“They’ve moved up the attack. Get them now!” She said seconds before she saw Nela pull out a gun.
“Nela’s got a gun!” Tara yelled and she and Lucy held their breaths as they watched what happened next.
Nela took aim on the unsuspecting crowd and a shot rang out just as Sue tackled her. Both girls fell to the ground. About ten feet away Jack saw them fall and frantically pushed his way through the panicking crowd, desperate to get to Sue. While Nela and Sue struggled, Myles and D grabbed and secured Ramone successfully before he could pull the gun they found in his tux jacket. Sue managed to get the gun away from Nela and she slid it to Bobby, who was just feet way, and by the time he picked it up, and Jack had arrived, Sue had Nela pinned to the ground.
“We’ve got her.” Bobby said as he grabbed hold of Nela’s arm.
Tara appeared and helped Sue to her feet as Jack grabbed Nela’s other arm and they dragged her to her feet, noticing the blood covering the front of her pale yellow gown. Jack turned to Sue to make sure she was all right and he saw that she also had blood on her gown and covering her right arm. He turned back to Nela. In the dim light it was hard to tell which girl was bleeding.
“Are you all right?” Tara asked Sue and Jack looked back over to see Sue looking down at her arm and Tara attempting to apply pressure to the deep gash in Sue’s biceps with her hand.
He looked up at Bobby with a horrified expression and as Bobby cuffed Nela he said, “I’ve got this one Sparky. Help Sue.”
Jack let go of Nela’s arm and Bobby followed Myles, D, and Ramone out of the ballroom.
“I’m fine.” Sue was saying when he turned back around. “It just nicked me.”
“That is not just a nick.” Jack said as he took the one step between him and Sue and he pulled a white towel out of his back pocket. He took her arm with a gentleness equal to the rage in his eyes.
“Jack, it’s not that bad.” Sue protested, but quit when Jack shot her an ‘are you kidding me?’ look.
He wrapped the towel tightly around her arm and Lucy and Levi appeared at Tara’s side.
“Sue! Are you ok?” She asked with panic when Sue looked up.
“I’m fine.” Sue said but at the same time Jack had to catch her as her legs decided to give out and she paled.
“You are not fine. You’ve been shot.” Jack said angrily as he wrapped his arm around her waist. “Let’s get you to the hospital.” He turned her toward the door.
“I don’t need to go to the hospital.” She tried to protest again.
“You’re going.” He ordered, leaving no room for argument.
Outside they met Bobby, D, and Myles, who had Nela and Ramone secured in the back seats of two different FBI fleet SUV’s.
“Hey.” D said as he turned when they walked up. “We’ve got this covered. We’re going to take these two to lockup for the night.” He said to Jack and then motioned to Sue. “You get her to the hospital.”
“I don’t need to go to...” Sue started but stopped when Jack glared at her and pulled her to the third SUV.
He helped her into the passenger’s side and shut the door when she was seated.
“We’ll meet you back at the hotel later.” He yelled back to the others.
They agreed and he climbed behind the wheel. With a quick glance at Sue he started the SUV and pulled out of the parking lot, afraid that if he spoke the emotions racing through his body would be too overwhelming.
Sue leaned her head back against the seat and looked out the window. Now that the adrenaline had left her body she felt exhausted. Her arm throbbed and she could barely move. She watched the buildings pass quickly. Too quickly. How fast is Jack going? She wondered just before she closed her eyes.

NOOO!!!!! Don't fall asleep, Sue! Wake up!!!

Sue tackiling Nela and pinning her down! You go girl!!! Loved it when she said "it's just a nick" Jack time for you to show our heroine a little TLC!

wow never saw that coming, great Em

People who have been shot should never be left alone. Maybe Jack can take care of Sue????? Great post Em!!!!!

Jenny