Okay guys. I'm tossing my hat in the ring. This one is different than my previous stories. The Alabama gang is staying in Alabama this time. There will be a character death. Sorry guys, but it is essential to the story. Just stick with me, though.

Here Goes!

Chapter 1

“It’ll never work,” Lucy laughed. “And I should know.”

“It could work,” Tara offered, peering over her mug of coffee.

“And tomorrow I could wake up and find that the little hooligans who call themselves Trick-or-Treaters have refrained from their annual ritual of toilet-papering my house,” Myles mumbled.

“They toilet-paper your house?” Tara choked a giggle.

“Considering the state of modern childhood, does that surprise you?” Myles frowned.

“Takes a lot of gumption to toilet paper a FBI agent’s house,” Bobby smiled.

“No one has ever toilet papered my house,” Dimitrius quipped, reaching for a coffee cup.

“You need our help solving your case Myles?” Jack grinned, unbuttoning his coat. Guilty expressions were his answer, Tara shaking her head and returning to her desk, Myles and Bobby turning their backs and Lucy walking unusually fast towards the file cabinet. It wasn’t hard to spot a plot, the question was how to handle it, which first meant, finding out what the plot was, then beating them to the punch line. Settling in his chair, he began to take inventory of the team’s uneasiness when Sue entered the Bullpen, shifting his focus in a single breath. Her smile gone, her gaze averted, she crossed the room silently instead of her usual cheery ‘good morning’. Briskly removing her coat, she dove into her seat, hiding behind her computer to brush away the last trace of tears. Even as he stood, he could see her set her jaw. Grabbing the case file they had been working on yesterday, Jack walked to her desk, perching on the side and waited for the brilliant hazel eyes to lift and meet his.

He glanced at the calendar on her desk, his eyes began to mist as he noted the date. It’s been three months today, he thought. He touched her hand to gain her attention. When she lifted those misty, hazel eye to meet his, he felt his heart break. He saw loneliness and despair replacing the usually brilliant gleam. He knew he had to fix this. “I’m so sorry, Sue,” he breathed, taking her hand in his.

Sue looked into the dazzling brown depths of his eyes. She saw love and compassion reflected there. Usually, one look into his eyes left her weak in the knees, bringing a glowing smile to her lips and a slight blush to her cheeks. His eyes usually took her breath away, but not today. Today, they sent a fresh wave of tears down her cheeks as she pulled her hand from his. She rose from her chair and rushed out the door, a small sob escaping her clinched lips. Jack, glancing at the other members of the team, followed right on her heels. I don’t care what they think or what they are plotting, Jack said to himself. All I know is she needs me.

Myles observed the two agents exit the bullpen. “I’m not so sure we need a plan,” he said quietly.

“Come on, Myles. Sparky is as clueless as ever,” Bobby replied.

“Besides,” Tara mused. “We can’t let a good plan go to waste.”

D knew Myles was right. They didn’t need a plan. He smiled to himself, knowing full well Jack was not clueless and neither was Sue.

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

He caught up with her just as she was about to enter the ladies room. Catching her by the arm, he pulled her away from the door. He had made a promise to D when the acting supervisor had given them permission to date four months ago. He had promised that they would keep it discreet, at least until the revamped rules were announced. So far, that had not been a problem, until today. Seeing Sue’s heart break was more than Jack could stand. All thoughts of remaining discreet left with her first tear drop. At that moment, he didn’t care if the Director himself saw them. His arms ached to hold her, comfort her. That was what he intended to do.

Sue, feeling his hand on her arm, turned her watery eyes to meet his. The adoration and concern reflected in those brown pools were too much for her to bear. As the tears increased, Jack whispered, “Come with me.”

Leading her down the hallway, he found an empty conference room. He pulled her inside, closing the door and locking it. He released her arm from his grasp, opening his arms wide. Sue stepped into his encircling embrace. Burying her face against his chest, she let go, her shoulders shaking with unrestrained emotion.

Jack stood in silence, holding Sue close…letting her cry. He gently rubbed her back, offering comfort with his gentle touch. As he held her, he allowed his mind to drift back over the changes the last four months had brought to their lives, some of which the team had yet to discover.


More later
Kim

Great start Kim! So

I love that Jack and Sue have been dating - secretly Now what is wrong with Sue and where is levi

Em

yeah where is levi. is he ok....... i have a guess he's not ok

i sure hope jack is going to stand by here, every step of the way i am glad they started dating though can't wait for more

Very sad start to your story.

Dianna

Very emotional start, Kim!! I too think it is Levi!!!

I'm surprised that they have managed to keep their dating a secret for four months!! I think the team is so caught up in trying to get them together, that they missed the event!!!

Joy

Glad you entered the challenge. Great start. Whatever could be upsetting Sue? I have an idea, but I will keep it to myself. Glad jack is there with her.

Ooh, another Kim story!!!!

Great start, carry on!!!

Jen

can't believe i missed this one

ok, i hate to say it but i think it is the wonderdog who has passed on, really hope i'm wrong

can't believe they're dating and no-one has worked it out, they must be terrific actors to hide it

looking forward to more

cath

where is levi

what happened 4 months ago!!!

can't wait for more!!!

Am I correct in thinking that this story is a sequel to Have Faith, There are no Miracles and His Hands?
If so where in the order dose it fall?

Thanks Dianna

Great start looking forward to reading your next installment

I'm wondering if something happened to Levi...he hasn't been mentioned yet.

Thanks for the encouragement! I really appreciate it. This is not a sequal to anything else I have written. It is a stand alone story. Bold is for sign. Italics is for thoughts. Enjoy!

Chapter Two

Four Months earlier…

“Jack, Sue,” D’s baritone voice boomed through the Bullpen.

Hearing Sue’s name, Levi placed his paw on her knee, gaining her attention. She instinctively turned her gaze from the golden paw to Jack’s brown eyes. “D-I-M-E-T-R-I-U-S” he fingerspelled in response to her questioning gaze.

D waited for Sue to focus on him before continuing. “I need to see you both in my office, now,” he said, turning on his heels and exiting the Bullpen.

“Why?” Sue signed to Jack. Jack just shrugged his shoulders and stood to follow D. Sue rose as well, puzzled at being summoned to the Supervisor’s office, but more puzzled at Jack’s nonchalant reaction. , she thought. Still, there is a gleam in his eyes that I haven’t seen before.

Reaching the office door, Jack opened the door and ushered Sue inside. He closed the door and took a seat in the empty chair beside Sue. He loved to watch her think. He could tell that her mind was whirling away, trying to comprehend why they had been summoned to D’s office. He knew her so well. He could almost see the scenes Sue was allowing to play through her mind as he knew she was searching for what rule they had broken recently. The crinkled brow and concerned expression she wore brought a slight smile to his lips. If only she knew…


D turned his cool gaze to the two agents sitting in front of him. Supervisors were not supposed to have favorites. However, he couldn’t help but feel an affinity for the young agents seated on the other side of the desk. They were good at what they did. They may have broken a few rules along the way, but when they did so, it was for the good of the unit. As far as he was concerned, they had earned the right to be together, if that was what they desired. His calm exterior hid the joy in his heart as he calmly asked, “Have you told her, Jack?”

Sue was puzzled. No one had told her anything. She looked first to Jack then to D, “Told me what? Jack? D? Would someone please tell me what is going on?” She was exasperated. She could by the look on Jack’s face that he was hiding something. D wore a look something akin to the cat that swallowed the canary. If someone doesn’t say something soon… she was not able to complete the thought as she felt Jack place his hand on her knee. She felt her breath catch in her throat at the touch. If she had been standing, her knees would have buckled. Something was definitely going on…something that would change her life forever. Swallowing the lump that threatened to form in her throat, she turned her gaze to the brown eyes of her partner.

Jack gently moved his hand from Sue’s knee to grasp her hand. “Sue,” he gazed into those hazel eyes that caused his heart to skip a beat. He struggled to keep breathing as he felt her squeeze his hand in response to her name. Catching his breath, he continued, “The day after you announced that you were staying in D.C. and not taking the position in New York, I came to talk with D. That day, I asked for a transfer.” He heard Sue gasp. Seeing the fear that entered her eyes, he hurried on, “When I almost lost you, I realized that I wanted to be more than your partner and your friend. The only way I could ask for our relationship to move to the next level was to transfer to another unit.” He wanted to say so much more, but this was not the time, nor the place. “That’s why I asked for the transfer.”

“When Jack came to me with his request and the explanation,” D interjected, “I asked him to give me a few weeks to check into the no-dating policy. I told him if I was unsuccessful in my attempts, I would gladly entertain his request. I have been in discussions with my superiors. It has been decided that the policy is going to be scrapped. It is an archaic rule that no longer applies. However, it will not become official until November 1.” D almost laughed at the look of chagrin on their faces. “But, as long as you can remain discreet over the next few months, then you have my blessing to begin dating now, if that is what you desire.”

D watched as a wave of immeasurable relief washed over their faces. He watched as Jack reached over and lovingly touched Sue’s hand, taking it in his. He saw the look of complete acceptance and unwavering love in Jack’s eyes. He saw the look of love and devotion in Sue’s eyes as she looked at Jack. He smiled inwardly, They most certainly deserve this chance. “If there are no questions,” he declared, “You are dismissed.”

Jack glanced at his watch. 11:45 a.m. There is no time like the present, he thought. He touched Sue’s arm. “Want to grab some lunch?” he asked. He was eager to talk to her, tell her what he had refrained from saying while in D’s office.

“Sure,” Sue said. She hoped her reply did not betray the eagerness she felt. “Just let me grab Levi and we’ll go.” She hoped desperately that Lucy would be too busy to question her. She left Jack standing by the elevators and entered the bullpen to get Levi. She breathed a sigh of relief when she glanced around at the other team members. Lucy was busily talking on the phone. Tara was peering into her computer screen. Bobby and Myles were discussing the latest baseball scores. Taking Levi’s leash from the hook, she motioned for Levi to come. Seeing the dog making his way to the door, Sue turned and made her way to the elevators and a waiting Jack. She had made a clean getaway, at least for now. Snapping the leash on Levi’s collar, she joined Jack in the elevator.

They rode down to the parking garage in silence. Jack had so much he wanted to say…so much he wanted to explain, but an elevator in the Hoover Building was not the most discreet place to start a conversation. Jack drew in an exasperated breath. At least I can use this time to come up with the right words to tell her how I feel, he thought. He allowed his gaze to wander over the lithe form of his beloved Sue. He drank in her features while his mind raced over the multitude of ways to express his feelings for her. A slight smile brushed his lips as the perfect scenario came into view. “Jack…” her voice broke through the fog of his thoughts.

Sue smiled at the dumbfounded look on Jack’s face. The far away look she had seen in his eyes betrayed the fact that he had been deep in thought. So deep, in fact, that she had needed to call his name several times before he focused on her. “We’re here,” she laughed. The elevator doors opened, revealing the dimly lit interior of parking garage.

Jack blinked several times, willing his mind to come back to the present. He blushed slightly, “Yeah, I know.” Finding the elevator and parking garage devoid of people, he seized the opportunity to take Sue’s hand in his. He led her across the parking garage to his car. Unlocking the doors, he secured Levi in the back seat before helping Sue into the passenger seat. As she turned her head to get into the front seat, he brushed a light kiss across her cheek. When she turned her eyes to him, he grinned like a schoolboy. He had seen a look of tenderness that left no doubt that she returned his feelings. Now, he just had to put into words what had been written on his heart the day she walked into his office over three years ago. He closed the door and made his way around the car. Before he opened the door to get in, he let out an excited “WhoooHooo.” This lunch was definitely going to change his life, forever.

“Where are we going?” Sue asked as they past by the area restaurants that were their usual lunchtime haunts. She felt the butterflies start when he turned to her with a cheeky grin. “A place where we can have a little privacy,” his response had sent a shiver through her spine. She was glad they hadn’t stopped for food. It would have been a waste of money. She had a feeling she wouldn’t feel much like eating.

Jack pulled the car into a space across the street from the park a few blocks from the Hoover Building. He went around and helped Sue from the car. Leaving Sue to attend to Levi, he went around and opened the trunk. He removed a picnic basket and blanket before closing the trunk. Hitting the lock button on the keyless remote, he offered his arm to Sue. Seeing the baffled express on her face, he explained, “D told me yesterday that he was planning on meeting with us today. I fixed this hoping that I would get the answer I wanted.” He smiled at her and led them across the street to the park. Finding the perfect spot, he placed the picnic basket on the ground and spread the blanket on the grassy spot under the spreading shade of an oak tree.

“This isn’t very private,” Sue quipped. She settled on the blanket while Jack arranged the contents of the picnic basket between them. She marveled at the assortment of food such a tiny basket could hold. There was fresh chicken salad in a tiny cooler, fresh croissants and brownies for dessert. He had even packed a bowl and dog food for Levi.

“No,” he agreed. “But it is far from the prying eyes of the Hoover Building. After all, D asked us to be discreet. It’s easy to get lost among a crowd in the park,” he grinned. He took a croissant, pulled it apart and lathered the chicken salad inside. Placing the two halves back together, he handed it to Sue. Taking a second croissant, he prepared one for himself. He kept the conversation light and easy, waiting until the last crumb of brownie had disappeared from her lips. Rising from the blanket, he offered his hand to Sue, “Let’s take a walk.”

Sue took his offered hand, allowing him to help her to her feet. She loved the feel of her hand in his. She allowed her eyes to roam over his exceptional physique. He had removed his jacket and loosened his tie. Although his arms and chest were covered by this light blue dress shirt, she could still make out the ripples of muscle underneath. The places her mind was taking her would have brought a shocked retort from her mother. Get a hold of yourself, Sue. She tried to clear her mind and focus on each step they were making. Sighing deeply, she finally allowed herself to focus on the hand holding hers and the promise of a future with the man who had captured her heart with his chocolate brown eyes and warm acceptance of every part that made her Sue.

Jack led them to a bench beside the small pond. Easing Sue down on the bench, he sat beside her. Taking both hands in his, he waited until she focused her hazel eyes on him before speaking. “Sue, I know what D said came as a surprise and I think I owe you an explanation, one that I couldn’t give in his office.” Taking a deep breath, he continued, “Sue, the moment you walked into my office three years ago, I knew you were the one I had waited my whole life for. My heart knew the minute I saw you, but my brain kept coming up with excuses, the main one being the no-dating policy. Finally, when I almost lost you to the job in New York, I realized my heart was more important than the excuses my brain kept forming. The job was not as important as being with you…being yours. You were and are the most important thing in my life. No job is worth losing you over.” Jack paused as he watched the tears trickle down Sue’s cheek. Releasing one hand, he gently reached up and wiped the tears from her eyes.

Sue blinked rapidly. She didn’t want to miss a word of what Jack was saying. She looked into his worried eyes. They held such warmth, such concern, such love. She gave him a watery smile, “I’m okay. Go on.”

Jack breathed, moving his hand to once again hold hers. “The afternoon you announced that you were staying in D.C., I went to see D. I told him that I thought the no-dating policy was archaic. I told him I wanted to be with you and I was willing to sacrifice my position on the team, my very job to fulfill that desire. I told him I wanted a transfer and if he didn’t give me one, then I would quit. I would find a job as a lawyer at some D.C. law firm and be free to follow my heart. D asked me to give him a few weeks. I complied and, as you know, today he gave me the go ahead to tell you I love you,” he paused, waiting for his words to sink in. He watched her eyes widen as the significance of his words settled into her brain. “I love you, Sue Thomas,” he whispered. Leaning towards her, his lips sought hers.

She met him halfway. She felt the electricity surge through her body as their lips met in the first real kiss they shared. She felt his tongue against her lips. She knew, instinctively that he craved permission to deepen the kiss. Slowly parting her lips, she gave him the admittance she knew he desired. Her mind was reeling as she allowed her tongue to timidly explore with his. He loves me, her heart screamed. He loves me. He wants me. She moaned as he broke the kiss. Slowly opening her eyes, she met the warm gaze of his brown eyes, dark with desire. “I love you, too, Jack,” she breathed. Her heart soared as he captured her lips again.

Levi watched as the two humans he loved most gave into the desires of their heart. He had known all along that they belonged to each other…that they loved each other. He also knew that he would gladly give his life to defend their right to be together. He grinned a doggie grin and laid his head on his paws. It’s about time, he thought.

Jack pulled away slightly, looking at his watch. “We need to get back,” he sighed. Time had passed much too quickly. Seeing the disappointment in her eyes, he gave her a wicked wink. “Of course, we can continue this after work, if you will have dinner with me.”

Sue cocked her head and gave him a grin. “I would love to, Jack.” She jumped to her feet and started off in the direction of the abandoned picnic basket. “But you’ll have to catch me first.”

Jack watched her sprint towards the oak tree. Smiling to himself, he jumped to his feet, “With pleasure,” he mumbled. He caught up to her in a matter of steps, catching her around the waist. He turned her around and pulled her against his chest. He place light kisses across her cheeks. Squeezing her tightly one last time, he released her from his grasp. Taking her hand in his, they made their way back to the picnic basket. After returning the items to the basket and folding the blanket, he took her hand again, walking to the car. He unlocked the car, leaving Sue to get Levi inside while he placed the picnic supplies back into the trunk. He got into the driver’s seat and took Sue’s hand again. He held her hand all the way back to the parking garage. Stopping on the street before entering the garage, he leaned over and kissed her one last time. Staring into her hazel eyes, he smiled, “Remember, we have to be discreet.” Releasing her hand, he pulled into the parking deck.

More later
Kim

Kim, that was beautiful!!!

Joy

How long is it until November? Good start on your story, can't wait for more.

Dianna

That was so beautiful. After that, it will be hard to accept if something should happen to mar their happiness.

a wonderful post, i'm well on the way to becoming a puddle

cath

Great start, Kim, but I'm and reading with my eyes closed until I find out what happened to Levi.

kav

Kim, this is really touching. Jack's words were really lovely!!!

Jen

that was beautiful, but then i read that part where levi thought ....i would gladly give my life for them ...and that made me sad again ....what happend.

law

I can't believe I all most missed this!! I am so sorry Kim!!

I don't think Levi has died, it is someone else - as the team would of at least of noticed if Levi was gone!!!

Sam

YAY they're together.....but I'm worried.....you said that there's a character death.....I'm thinking it's Levi.....please tell me I'm wrong....

~laura michelle~

Ok - where is Levi 4 months later????

Jack and Sue... Totally

Em

On edge waiting for the news!
thanks,
Terie

Beautiful. But I'm worried for the character's death...

Ornella

Great update looking forward to reading more

Chapter 3

One month later...

Jack looked at the clock. 6:00 a.m., he smiled to himself. Jack Hudson, he mused to himself, the notorious morning hater. And here I am, already showered, dressed and ready to walk out the door. Must be a special day. He fingered the velvet box in his jacket pocket. He had spent the last two weeks looking for and finding the perfect ring. “Today’s the day,” he spoke to the empty room. He sprinted across the room, flinging his apartment door open. He quickly locked it, pulled it closed and took the steps leading to the street two at the time.

He pulled his car into a space two blocks from Sue’s apartment. He had promised D he would be discreet. So, he had risen early every day for the past four weeks, meeting Sue in the park for her morning walk with Levi. He would meet her on the bench half way across the park, out of sight from her apartment window. He made his way to the bench. Sitting down to wait, he allowed his mind to wander, gently fingering the velvet box in his pocket. He smiled at what a blessed man he was…

So far, they had been discreet, keeping their blooming romance from the rest of the team. Luckily, the team was involved in a very complicated case that kept them all on their toes. With the distraction of the case, he and Sue had been able to spend time together without raising suspicions. After all, he was Sue’s training agent. He needed her to go with him to interview witnesses and snitches. He was also the team leader. Setting the proper example was important. Therefore, he couldn’t very well leave Sue alone during the long hours she had spent transcribing surveillance tapes. He was brilliant, if he did say so himself.

The weekends were the hardest. Jack knew they were especially hard on Sue. After all, she lived with the team matchmaker. He remembered just how tenacious Lucy could be when she caught a whiff of a potential romance. So far, Lucy was none the wiser. Sue must be handling her part of the charade very well. It had been Sue who had come up with the brilliant plan for their weekends. Jack chuckled as he remembered the gleam in her eyes as she had explained in great detail her plan for hoodwinking Lucy. So far, the plan had worked perfectly. He had been able to spend every weekend with Sue. He had even been able to escort her to church on Sundays. Now, he was about to up the ante.

Feeling her breath on his neck, Jack stirred from his reverie. Taking her by the hand, he pulled her down on the bench beside him. Gazing into her hazel eyes, he leaned over and capture her lips in a tender good morning kiss. “Good Morning, Beautiful,” he signed. His heart did flip-flops when her luscious lips smiled back at him before returning his kiss. Of all the women he had dated, Sue was the only one who had ever been able to turn his insides to jelly with something so simple as a smile or gentle touch. It was one of the many ways he had know she was the ONE. Leaning down, he scratched Levi behind the ears, “How are you this morning, buddy.”

Sue watched as Levi wiggled and squirmed in excitement over Jack’s morning greeting. She loved how Jack always took time to make Levi feel special. In fact, she loved the way Jack always took time to make her feel special. Who was she kidding, she just loved Jack, period. Reaching up, she gently caressed his jaw. Gazing deeply into the chocolate pools that were his eyes, she whispered, “I love you.”

This couldn’t be more perfect, he thought. Reaching over, he took Sue’s hand in his. His eyes drank in the depths of love he saw reflected in her gaze, mirroring his own feelings. “Sue, I know it seems that I have gone from zero to sixty in the last few weeks, but I have dreamed about this since the day you walked into my office. I love you Sue Thomas. I have wasted the past three years and I don’t want to waste another moment.” Moving off the bench, he knelt on one knee. He watched the hazel eyes darken with emotion, tears beginning to glimmer along the lashes. “I want to spend the rest of my life with you, Sue. I want to wake up with you in my arms. I want to face every challenge of each day with you. I want to gaze into the faces of my children and see your smile. I want to make you my wife. Sue, will you marry me?” He held his breath, waiting…

Sue smiled through her tears. Taking her free hand, she reached out to wipe the tears from Jack’s eyes. She let it rest on his cheek. “I have waited to see you say those words for so long,” she whispered. “Yes, Jack. I will marry you.”

Jack felt his hands tremble as he reached into his pocket and withdrew the small velvet box. Opening it, he placed the brilliant diamond on the ring finger of her left hand. “Oh, Jack,” he heard her breathe as he rose to his feet, pulling Sue into a gentle embrace. He slowly lowered his head, capturing her lips in a kiss that sealed their future.

Levi smiled at the happy couple. He danced back and forth in a happy little circle, his tail wagging. Finally, he thought. Finally I have someone to help me protect my Sue.

********************
As Jack pulled into the parking garage at the Hoover Building, Sue unfastened the chain around her neck that held the little gold cross she always wore. She gently removed the ring from her finger and placed it on the chain. Seeing Jack’s questioning gaze, she replied, “We promised to be discreet. This way, I can still wear your ring.” She watched as Jack’s eyes crinkled into a gleaming smile. She felt him touch her hand, lifting it to his mouth, kissing the spot where the ring had just been. “I’m sorry,” she saw him say. Her heart dropped to her toes. Her worst fears were coming true. He regrets asking me to marry him. She lowered her eyes, hoping he wouldn’t see the disappointment and hurt she couldn’t quite disguise.

Jack’s heart stopped when he saw Sue’s reaction. You are such an idiot, Hudson, he mentally kicked himself. Reaching over, he lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. The hurt reflected in those hazel eyes broke his heart. He had never meant to hurt her. “Sue, I only meant I was sorry that you couldn’t wear the ring where everyone will see it, knowing you are mine. I know I am making it hard to remain discreet, but I just couldn’t help myself. I want you to know how much I love you…that I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Even though I would much rather you wear it where it belongs, I will comfort myself that you are wearing it close to your heart.” He watched as a gleam of joy pushed aside the doubt he had seen earlier. Leaning over, he gently caressed her hair, pushing a stray stand behind her ear before lowering his lips to hers. He brushed a light kiss across her lips. Feeling her respond beneath his lips, he deepened the kiss. He gently pulled away, ending the kiss before the prying eyes of the FBI could catch their little interlude. Releasing his seatbelt, he thought, This is going to be harder than I thought. November 1 can’t get here fast enough for me. Exiting the car, he sprinted to the passenger side, opening the door for Sue and Levi.

***************
The Bullpen was abuzz as Jack entered. He had left Sue and Levi by the elevators. It had become another of their morning rituals. He would leave them by the elevators and enter the Bullpen. Sue would follow five minutes later. He had to admit, they had this down with military precision. Seeing Tara, Bobby and Myles hovering around Tara’s computer, Jack asked, “What’s up guys?”

“There has been a break in the case,” Bobby grinned. It had been a hard case with little to no leads. He was exuberant about the prospects of it finally coming to a close. “Tara’s arranging for the surveillance van as we speak.”

Jack noticed a glimmer of something new and fresh in Bobby’s face as he spoke Tara’s name. Looks like November 1 may bring more than one new couple to the forefront, he mused as he began the process of switching into agent mode. “Okay, fill me in.”

Sue entered the bullpen just as Myles started to fill Jack in on the latest developments. Sue moved quickly to stand beside Jack. She watched Myles animated responses, looking to Jack when she was unable to catch everything he said. Jack seemed to know instinctively when she needed clarification. In turn, she had come to trust Jack to throw in a fingerspelling or sign when she needed it. She smiled, Just another of the reasons I fell in love with him.

“It seems the Mr. Big himself is going to be there for the delivery of the stolen jewels,” Myles explained. “The meeting is set for noon at a warehouse on K Street.”

Jack sprang into action, setting his plan in motion. “Okay, Tara and Sue will man the surveillance van.” Pointing to the blueprints of the warehouse, he continued. “Bobby, you and Myles will position yourselves here and here. D and I will take up positions here and here. Okay people, let’s move.”

*****************
The team was in place. Levi studied Sue as she watched the monitors inside the surveillance van. He could feel her praying silently for the safety of the team. He knew she was praying especially hard for one dark haired agent in particular. As closely as she was watching the monitors as the bust went down, she missed the person in the corner, taking aim at Jack.

Levi didn’t miss the action on the monitor. He had nudged Sue as soon as he noticed the armed figure scurrying around behind the team. When Sue didn’t respond, Levi decided to take things into his own paws. Jumping up and dislodging the lever on the surveillance van’s door, he pushed it open. Sprinting across the street as fast as his four legs could carry him. He was almost to Jack when he saw the figure raise the gun, taking aim at one of his favorite humans. No! his doggie brain yelled. They have just found each other. I can’t let this happen. Levi jumped at Jack’s back, just as he heard the gun fire.

More Later
Kim

Oh No!!!!!!

But the proposal was

Em

I will just wait here for your next post.

Dianna

I can't think of a thing to say, except, Oh, No!!!

Joy

i was all happily mushified and melting at the proposal and then.......................

cath

Oh no Levi!!!

Sam

oh levi.....

NNNNNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO LEVIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Oh no

But there was lots of in the post too

Can I join you Please

Oh no. I fear for what may be about to happen.

Kim, there are no words. Well, there are words, but I just can't think of any to describe the power and emotion you weaved into this post. That's going to be a terrible guilt for Jack to live with, the fact that something that was so close to Sue was killed for him.

Jen

Can't think of any words to say.
thanks,
Terie

Sure no problem the more the merrier

Dianna

I'm sure it is as hard to write as it is to read. I can't imagine the heartbreak and guilt that will be felt by Jack and Sue.

you didnt exactly say that say that Levi died...
it could be another character death.. right???
maybe it was just a typo.. you meant to say NO character death... right???
i mean we could just be jumping to conclusions...right????
PLEASETELL ME WE'RE JUST JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS!!!!!


yea i think im joining you guys behind that blue couch

kav

I can't believe what I am reading....this was a lot to take in.... Way too many emotions to think about right now.

Kim...I'm starting to get nightmares

kav

Okay, this is against my better judgement. I have thought and rethought these next few posts. Oh well, here goes. I am giving these next few posts at least a two kleenex warning!

Jack felt himself being pushed to the ground as he heard the retort of the gun. Rolling quickly to his back, he fired. He watched as the gunman swayed on his feet, falling to the concrete floor in a heap. His gaze turned from the assailant to his savior. Crawling quickly to Levi’s side, he gathered the golden head in his lap. His eyes brimmed with tears as he saw the brown eyes glaze and the breathing become labored. As his gaze traveled the length of Levi’s body, he saw the red stains start to soil the golden coat. “Hang in there, buddy. Don’t leave us. Sue needs you.” He moved his hand to activate the mic on his radio. “Agent down! Agent down!,” he shouted.

In the surveillance van, Sue watched the action unfold in slow motion. “Jack! Levi!” she screamed as she the screen was obscured for a moment by the smoke of the gunfire. Seeing both man and animal lying on the concrete floor, Sue bolted from the van. She ran across the street and into the warehouse. Feeling strong hands restraining her advance, she turned to see Bobby holding tightly to her shoulders. “Let me go!” she screeched. Feeling Bobby tighten his grip, she yelled again, “Bobby! Let me go!” With those last words, she twisted her body with all her might. Wrenching herself free, she stumbled toward the dark haired agent and the golden coated dog. Tears were streaming down her face as she knelt beside the two beings she loved the most.

Jack sensed her presence before he felt her touch. Releasing Levi from his grasp, he turned to gather Sue into his arms, pulling her against his chest as her shoulders shook with restrained emotion. “I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry,” he repeated over and over again, tears wetting the top of her hair.

Bobby looked at Myles, D and Tara as they stood encircling the three team members still on the floor of the warehouse. Bobby gazed into their faces, seeing the same crestfallen look etched on each one. He couldn’t believe it. The true golden boy of the FBI lay bleeding on the concrete floor. Hang on Levi. Hang on. Hearing the paramedics approaching, he stepped aside to allow them access to the hero of the day.

“Where is the agent?” the dumpy paramedic asked. He could see that neither the pretty blonde woman nor the handsome young man were hurt.

“There,” Tara responded. She pointed a trembling finger at the golden retriever panting heavily in Jack’s lap.

“But that’s a dog,” he sniffed. “We can’t carry no dog in the ambulance.” He quickly regretted his words as five sets of eyes graced him with icy stares.

Myles quickly stepped forward, straightening himself to his full height. He towered above the portly paramedic. “That, my dear sir is not a dog,” he stated through clinched teeth. His face reddening in anger as he continued, his voice cool, but increasing in volume. “That is one of the FBI’s finest. He is to be treated with the same respect that you would give any other victim. Now, time is wasting. May I suggest that you stop standing there gawking and get on with the business of trying to save his life.”

The paramedic opened his mouth to argue, only to close it quickly as Bobby, D and Tara stepped up behind Myles. There were three athletic looking men and one feisty looking lady challenging him. He knew the odds were not in his favor. “Come on, let’s get him loaded,” he mumbled to his partner.

Sue was on autopilot. She was numb as she watched the two paramedics gently lifted Levi from Jack’s lap, placing him gently on the stretcher. She felt Jack’s hand slip into hers, pulling her from the floor. She could feel his arms go around her shoulders. She was aware that her feet were moving as she felt him guide her to the waiting ambulance. She felt him lift her into the ambulance once Levi was securely fastened in. She grabbed for his hand as the ambulance doors started to close, pulling him inside. Feeling his arms go around her again, she placed her head against his chest, clinging to his jacket with all her might. “Don’t let go, Jack,” she whispered.

Jack placed a light kiss on top of Sue’s head. Taking his free hand, he gently lifted her chin until her eyes focused on his. “I’m not going anywhere, sweetheart,” he replied, gently wiping the tears from her eyes. “I’m not going anywhere.” He settled her head against his chest, holding her tightly in his protective embrace as the ambulance screamed towards the hospital.

****************
Dr. Wilson was the best veterinary surgeon in D.C. He was a little shocked when Georgetown University Hospital paged him. He had met the ambulance at the emergency entrance, only briefly glancing at the handsome couple accompanying the service dog. He had a job to do.

Dr. Wilson stopped outside the small family waiting room just off the emergency entrance. This was the hardest part of his chosen profession. Each time he had to break this kind of news, a little piece of his heart was torn away. Every time was tough, but this had to be one of the toughest he had faced. The golden retriever lying across the hall was a service dog for a deaf woman. Service dogs were a means of independence. The loss of such a dog would be like amputating the owners arm. A little more of her independence would be stripped away. Drawing in a deep breath, he pushed the door open.

Jack heard the door creak open. Lifting his head, his stomach dropped at the look he saw on the doctor’s face. Dropping his gaze from the doctor’s face to the blonde head lying on his shoulder, he braced himself for the news he knew was coming. Reaching for Sue’s hand, he gave it a squeeze. Watching as her eyes focused on him, he spoke gently, “Sue, the doctor is here.”

Sue lifted her head from Jack’s shoulder, Sue held tightly to his hands. She looked in the face of the veterinarian standing before her. She read the news in his blue eyes before he spoke the first word. Tears were already coursing down her cheeks by the time she first saw his lips move.

Dr. Wilson stood silent for a moment, drinking in the sight of the couple seated before him. The gentleman’s shirt was stained red in spots. He couldn’t help but notice the chemistry between the two. Someone had told him that the gentleman was her training agent. Dr. Wilson knew that there was something more going on than a simple working relationship. His spirits lifted a little when he realized that the young woman would not be left alone. “Ms. Thomas,” he began. “I am sorry to have to tell you this, but Levi is not going to survive. We have tried everything within the realm of science, but the damage is just too extensive. If you will come with me, I have arranged for you to stay with him until the end.” He opened the door and waited as the couple shuffled across the room. Crossing the hall, he led them to Levi.

Sue felt safe and comforted as Jack held her in his arms. She was standing beside the bed, Levi laying just an arms length away. With trembling hands, she reached out to gently pet the soft coat. “Hey buddy,” she whispered. “You were so brave today. I am so proud of you.” She felt her heart break as she watched his breathing become shallower. Moving closer, she lay her head on the pillow beside him. “Thank you, Levi,” her voice barely audible. “Thank you for loving me. Thank you for helping me. Thank you for protecting me. Most of all…” she paused, unable to continue for a moment. She raised her head, reaching behind her for Jack. Pulling his closer, she turned from Levi to stare into the warm, brown eyes of her fiancée. She saw her own pain and despair reflected in the depths of his eyes. She could feel the pain in his gaze. Turning back to Levi, she allowed a measure of joy to enter her breaking heart. “Most of all, thank you for saving my Jack. I think you knew I couldn’t live without him.” She leaned over and places a light kiss on Levi’s muzzle.

Jack stepped beside, Sue, never releasing her from his embrace. His heart was heavy. He hated to watch Sue’s heart break. He had vowed to never hurt her. Yet, it was because of him that she was losing one of the most important things in her life. He felt sad. He was losing a good friend. He felt guilty. Levi was dying because of him. He saw the golden body shudder as Levi struggled to hold on. Jack could see by the look in his eyes, Levi was waiting. Waiting for the assurance that only Jack could give…waiting for permission to let go of his faltering hold on life. Jack leaned over and place a gently hand on Levi’s head. Stroking gently, he whispered, “It’s okay buddy. You can go. I’ll take care of Sue. I will be by her side until we join you at Rainbow Bridge. Then, I will take her by the hand, take hold of your leash, and we will cross the bridge together. Wait for us.” Jack let his tears splash, unheeded, down his cheeks. He watched as the tears fell on Levi’s face. He saw Levi shudder one last time as the dog closed his eyes. The final memory of Levi would be emblazoned in Jack’s memory forever. He had seen a smile of contentment cross the dog’s face as Levi let go of life.

***************
The mood in the bullpen was somber. Tara stared, unblinking in the computer screen. She could feel the tears stinging her eyes. Jack had just called to let the team know that Levi was gone. “It’s just not fair!” she yelled. Banging her hands on the keyboard, she allowed herself to dissolve into a puddle of tears.

Bobby watched Tara dissolve. His own heart was heavy with the loss of a dear friend. Seeing the normally bubbly Tara sobbing on her keyboard was more than he could stand. Striding across the bullpen, he gently placed his hand on her back, offering her silent comfort. He was surprised, but strangely warmed when Tara turned and buried her head against his chest. He began to stroke her hair, letting her emotions wash over him as well.

Myles slumped in his desk chair. He was mindlessly twirling Levi’s bunny in his hands. He hated to admit it, but he was heartsick over the loss of a beloved team member. He was going to miss the way that Levi seemed to sense when he needed a little TLC. After he was shot, it was Levi, and Sue of course, who had offered him the greatest comfort. It had been Sue’s words that had started to heal the fear in his heart, but it was Levi who had stayed by his side until he was ready to face that fear. Brushing the tears from his eyes, he reached for the phone. Someone needed to call Lucy. She was in Atlanta visiting her mother. Dialing her cell number, he breathed a silent prayer for strength. “Lucy, it’s Myles…Yes, something is wrong…Lucy, Levi’s gone.”

**************
Lucy sat in stunned silence staring at her cell phone. Levi’s gone. Myles words echoed in her head. She didn’t notice the tears spilling down her cheeks. Levi was gone and she had not been there. She had grown very fond of Levi, loving him almost as much as Sue did. Sue, she thought. Who is going to take care of Sue? She flipped open her phone. She knew exactly what she needed to do and where she needed to be. “Yes. I would like to book the next available seat on a flight to Washington, D.C.”

***************
Jack took Sue back to his apartment. He didn’t want her facing her own lonely apartment tonight. She had been quiet on the trip from the hospital. He could only hope and pray that she would forgive him. He was afraid that she would push him away, blaming him for Levi’s death. She would be within her rights to blame me, he mused. After all, it is my fault. “Jack,” he felt her take his hand as they pulled into his parking spot outside his apartment building.

Sue waited until Jack parked the car. Using her free hand, she switched on the map light. Seeing Jack turn is gaze to her, she gently reached up and wiped the tears from his eyes. She knew he was blaming himself. She, however, did not blame him. Levi had given his life to save the life of the man she loved. Jack had only been doing his job. “Jack, this is not your fault.” If it’s anyone’s fault, she thought, it’s mine for letting Levi know how much I love you. She lovingly lifted his chin when she saw it drop to his chest. “Jack, I love you. If it weren’t for Levi’s sacrifice, I would have lost you today. Levi loved you Jack and he loved me, too. Somehow, he knew that I can’t live without you. Jack, please don’t blame yourself.” She gently caressed his cheek, “We need to rejoice in the knowledge that Levi loved us enough to make sure we would be together for years to come. We need to honor his memory by taking special care with our relationship, living and loving each day as if it were our last day on earth. God placed Levi in my life so that I could find my way to you, Jack. Don’t ever forget that.”

Jack couldn’t believe the love he saw in her hazel eyes. “What did I do to deserve you?” he asked, leaning across the console to kiss her lips. He loved the uncanny way she had of reading his mind. He had been blaming himself. Somehow, she always seemed to know exactly what to say. In her words, he had found the comfort he needed to push his guilt aside for the moment.

Jack entered the bedroom after his shower to find Sue in tears. He had given her a pair of his flannel lounge pants and a t-shirt. He insisted that she take her shower first. Leaving her in the bedroom, he quickly showered and dressed. Seeing the tears, he eased himself on the bed, pulling Sue into his embrace.

“It’s my fault,” she cried. “I should have kept my eye on him. He tried to get my attention and I ignored him. If I had paid attention to him, then I would have seen the shooter and could have warned you. Levi’s gone and it’s all my fault.”

Jack lifted his hand to her cheek, wiping the tears from her eyes. Once he was sure she could see him, he began to speak. “Sue, this is not your fault. Things happened so fast today, there was no way you could see everything that was going on. I know, I feel guilty, too. I keep thinking that I could have done something different, then Levi would still be here. My head tells me that there was nothing I could have done. My heart won’t listen. A psychologist would say this is just part of the grieving process. I don’t know if it is or not. I only know that I miss him and that I am the reason he is not here. I’ve hurt you Sue. I’ve taken away some of your independence today. I’m so sorry.”

Sue laughed through her tears. “We are a pitiful pair, you and I,” she said. “Jack, I know you feel guilty. Obviously, I do too. It’s things like this that often force a couple apart. Please don’t let that happen. I want us to make a vow right now. Whenever we face something like this…something that could threaten our relationship, I want us to talk about it. No shutting each other out. Promise me, Jack.”

“Promise” he signed. He just hoped he could live up to that promise. He did, after all have a tendency to keep things bottle up, brooding about them instead of talking about them. But when he looked into her innocent face, seeing the absolute trust and love in those eyes, he knew he would spend his last breath trying to keep that promise.

Jack’s eyes held such compassion as he gazed at her. She could see the love and absolute devotion reflected in the brown depths. In his arms, she felt safe. She knew that with him, she didn’t always have to be strong. He accepted her, faults and all. “I miss him, Jack.” She lost herself as another wave of emotion swept over her.

He had held her while she cried herself to sleep. Once she quieted, he had tried to ease his way off the bed. His intentions had been to sleep on the couch. As he edged away from Sue, she had only tightened her grip on his shirt. Easing further down against the pillows, Jack gathered her against him, holding her until the morning light woke them both.

More later
Kim

I am at a loss for words...that made me sad too.... I hope you can make it all better soon.

Heartbreaking Post

Dianna

that was so sad lin