Such strong, wonderful kids to come from a worm like Tony. Though, I do hope Mary Alice gets her wish and her daddy comes home for Christmas.

“Come in,” Tom Sullivan replied, without looking up from the case file open on his desk, to the sharp rap on his office door. The hinges squeaked as the door swung open. As his eyes lifted to meet his first visitor of the morning, he made a mental note to check with maintenance about getting some WD-40 for the irritating screech. His eyes widened in surprise, a slow grin starting on the left side of his lips and spreading across to the right. He stood up and extended his hand to his friend since Quantico. “Jack Hudson! To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit from the no longer most eligible bachelor the FBI has to offer?”

“Morning, Tom. How is everything?” Jack took his hand and shook it warmly, grinning widely.

“Fine. Fine.” He waved the well shaken hand towards one of the leather chairs opposite his desk. “Have a seat.” He returned to his own seat as his friend settled himself into the chair indicated. “How is married life treating you?”

“Man, I can’t tell you how great it is.” Jack’s grin, if possible, grew even larger. “Sue has a way of making even the most mundane task exciting. I honestly don’t know how I lived without her, Tom. She’s like the air I breathe, essential to my very existence. And to have someone to talk to and joke with about…” He paused as his friend could no longer contain his knowing chuckle. His cheeks warmed as he lowered his eyes, his own laughter joining his friend’s. “Sorry about that. I just get a little…”

“Carried away when you get started on the subject of your wife?” Raised eyebrows met brown hair. “Don’t sweat it, Jack. Even after five years, the birth of a child and another on the way, I feel the exact same way about Alicia. I could talk about her and Erin for hours.”

“So this feeling isn’t something that wears off after six months or anything?”

Tom shook his head, biting back another chuckle at the look of utter terror and uncertainty that flooded the eyes of the man that could hold a gun steady and drop an armed perpetrator at 100 yards. “No buddy. It’s not. Not for people like us who’ve been blessed enough to find our soul mates.” He leaned back, his office chair creaking as it leaned to touch the wall. He folded his hands across his abdomen and narrowed his eyes as he took in the man sitting across the desk from him. “But I doubt seriously that the new Deputy Director of Field Operations came down here to discuss his wife. What can I do for you, Jack?”

Jack sighed, taking in the measure of the man sitting before him. Tom Sullivan was a good man. He played a little loose by the rules, but then so had he, on occasion. His thoughts turned to the way he and Bobby had intimidated Howie just after he became Sue’s first snitch. Then, of course, there was the fact that he had not turned Bobby in after he used money from a case to win back gambling losses. Instead, he’d offered a loan, which he was paying back, and the support of a friend. So who was he to judge? “Ellen Capono came to see Sue and me last night, Tom.” His friend stiffened and slowly leaned forward in his chair, his elbows coming to rest on the edge of his teakwood desk. “She’s worried about Tony.”

“I see.”

Jack struggled to read the guarded expression that fell like a mask over Tom’s face. It was the same mask he wore whenever D or Ted or any of his superiors seemed to be questioning his abilities as an agent or team leader. When he took this position three months ago, he had vowed to lead the units under his direction the same way he had led his team, gathering input from all concerned, running it by someone he trusted, like Sue, and making the best decision he could make for all concerned. This was a team effort, after all. And trying to make another team member feel slighted was never his intention. “I didn’t promise her, anything Tom. Just told her I’d check into it.” The man before him relaxed slightly. “Care to enlighten me?”

“You know how Tony is,” Tom hedged. After the strong arm tactic he’d used to get Capono involved in this case, he hated to admit he was growing concerned about the agent. Despite the fact he was a rebel and a renown rule breaker, he had become more conscientious about checking in since Mary Alice’s accident. It had been more than two weeks with no word.

“Yeah. Unfortunately I do. What’s he gotten himself into?”

“He’s infiltrated the Giantonio family. Rumor has it there is about to be a merger between Nick Giantonio and Alexi Andropov. If it goes through, it would be the largest crime syndicate in the country. When we got wind of it, we knew we needed to stop the joining of the two families if possible. We sent Tony in.” He sighed heavily as his eyes darkened with frustration. “At first he was checking in on a regular basis. But now, we haven’t heard from him in more than two weeks.”

Jack leaned back in the chair. He entwined the fingers of his hand, bumping his index finger against his lips as he contemplated what Tom had said. “And you haven’t sent anyone else in to check things out?” He kept his voice calm and casual, knowing that the question would ruffle the supervisor’s feathers of taken the wrong way.

“No. With the Holidays and everything, we just don’t have the manpower.” Tom sighed, his shoulders sagging slightly. “And to be quite honest with you, Jack. Since it’s Tony, I just haven’t been that motivated.”

“Tom, he’s a fellow agent.” Jack admonished gently. The temper that, at one time, would have flared kept at bay by similar feelings. If it were just to save Tony’s backside instead of making a family’s Christmas wish come true, he wasn’t so sure he’d be in Tom’s office. Of course Sue would say differently, he thought, working to keep his smile at bay. She’d say that, in the long run, my conscience would get the better of me and I’d end up doing the right thing. Thankfully, since Sue entered his life, he didn’t have to worry about struggling with his conscience. She made him want to listen to it. “Regardless of how we feel about him as a person, we owe it to him as fellow agents.”

“Don’t you think I know that, Jack?!” Tom stormed. He pushed away from the desk forcefully. Jumping to his feet he began to pace the area behind his desk, grousing as he walked. “But when you don’t have the manpower, you don’t have the manpower.”

“How about I give you the manpower?”

Tom stopped pacing and turned to face his friend and boss. “Why?

“Why give you the manpower?” He crinkled his forehead in confusion. “Because it’s my job.”

“No why that, Jack. Why such an interest in saving Capono’s backside? After all he put you and Sue through I thought you’d be the last person to want to help him out.”

Jack sighed. He reached into the inside pocket of his jacket and withdrew Mary Alice’s letter. He leaned forward and placed it on the desk, sliding it towards the irritated agent. “I’m not doing it for Tony, Tom. I’m doing it for his daughter. Ellen presented Sue and me with that last night. When I think of all the things that little princess has had to go through these past several months…” His voice trailed off, tears prickling his eyes. “Read it and let me know what you want to do.”

Tom glanced between letter and his superior standing to leave his office. A sighing groan vibrated in his chest as he leaned over and picked up the letter, settling back into his chair before reading. Visions of his wife and little girl filling his senses as he read the words asking in the simplistic way of a child’s belief for a Christmas miracle. Closing his eyes, he lowered his head to his chest, trying to disentangle the emotions associated with placing his family in the Capono family’s shoes, thinking instead of the merit of involving another group of agents. Pulling them away from cases of their own or family plans for the Holidays. But he couldn’t. This one just hit too close to home. “Jack,” he called, raising his eyes to see the retreating agent stop in the open doorway. “I’ll take whatever manpower you can scrounge up.”

Jack looked over his shoulder and nodded at his friend. An understanding smile playing at the corners of his mouth. “I’ll give you the best I’ve got.”

More later
Kim

Why does that last sentence give me an ominous chill?

I enjoyed reading the part where Jack and Tom discussed their happy marriages.

I shudder to think it, but it looks like Jack is about to go in to find Tony.

why have I this uneasy feeling its jack thats going in please dont let it be jack please find someone who isnt married as its sue and jacks first christmas as husband and wife please find someone else and not jack cant wait for more Kim
Lin

I loved it when Jack gave Tom the letter from Mary Alice. There was no way he could say no then.

Tina

12/18 – Page 3 – Post #35 – Oh, why do the demons always seem to strike us when least expected? Sue did a wonderful job of letting Jack know he would never become like Tony! Now, I’m totally

and would just as soon go to bed on this note! However, I’m too far behind and want to get caught up, so I’ll take a chance your last post of a few minutes ago will have another nice fuzzy to send me off to dreamland.

12/19 – Page 3 – Post #41 – Excellent thoughts by Tony…you really know how to mess with our heads, at least my head, re Tony…..a complete 180 degree turn-around! And then, another Jack and Sue

moment….let me in the car!

12/19 – Page 4– Post #46 – Oh, now I’m crying! That was beautiful, from Matt’s tenderness with Mary Alice and wanting to be the strong “man of the house” to Mary Alice’s child-like faith. Yes, I believe that is what Ellen must do…reach down and lean on her faith! A beautiful post, Kim.

Yes, Ivory, Matt does resemble a young Jack.

12/20 – Page 4– Post #52 – What a fantastic start to this post, Kim…first, Tom Sullivan is a friend, probably a close friend since Jack confided some very intimate information about how Sue makes him feel and Tom offered him the same. Second, Jack has been promoted to Deputy Dir of Field Operations?

Does that mean he is Tom’s supervisor now? What happened with D? Reading on….

Ah, Jack was promoted 3 months ago and is now Tom’s boss. But, in the end, Tom is not such a bad guy after all….whew....thanks to Mary Alice's letter and the fact Tom has a daughter, Erin, around the same age! That is a relief! After coercing Tony into going undercover, I thought Tom was going to be another Markham!

Boy, I’m sure glad he’s not! Now, I wonder who is going to be the “I’ll give you the best I’ve got.”

Lynn

I'm glad that Jack wants to help, but why do I have a bad feeling about this whole thing! How is Jack going to get him out without aggravating the mob?

I just had to use the new smilies they're too cute!

Something tells me that the best Jack's got Starts with a B and ends with a 'obby Manning'.

Lucy stood in the doorway of the tastefully decorated office and watched as her best friend bent over the files scattered on her desk. Barely 9:00 and Sue Thomas Hudson, Senior Investigative Analyst for Field Operations, was already hard at work. Before approaching the desk, she glanced across the hall into Jack’s office. Seeing his desk empty, she figured now was her best opportunity to have Sue’s undivided attention for a moment.

She chuckled as she noticed how each of them had positioned their desks so that they had an unobstructed view of each other. She’d caught them, on occasion, having silent conversations, Jack sitting at his desk and Sue across the hall at hers, signing and smiling shyly just like they did in the Bullpen. She was amazed at how quickly Jack’s signing was progressing since he and Sue married. Just proves it takes the right motivation, she thought as memories of Jack’s declaration that he always had trouble with languages flitted through her mind.

Watching Sue work, she thought back over how much had changed in the last four months. After the wedding and honeymoon, things were just returning to normal until Hackleford reared his ugly head again. He was quite miffed about Sue turning down the New York job offer. He had visions of grandeur concerning Sue’s skills and what it would mean to his career to have her on one of the teams under his command. He had groused and complained since the day Jack and Sue’s new relationship was revealed. Although the Assistant Directors and even the Director himself saw no problem with allowing them to remain on the same team, the man’s constant nagging and bellyaching had worn them down.

But the solution they came up with brought a grin to Lucy’s lips. It happened about a month after the wedding. Sue was busy at her desk. Myles, Jack and Bobby were out interviewing witnesses for a current case. Tara was at a seminar on the new computer system upgrades. D was out of the office at a Supervisor’s retreat. And she was working on the filing system that had gone to pot during the excitement surrounding the wedding. She closed her eyes and thought back to the day that brought change to the team.

“Mrs. Hudson. May we have a word with you?” Lucy held her breath at the sound of the Director’s voice. It wasn’t often that he left his office and ventured into any of the internal offices of the Hoover Building. She squeezed further between the filing cabinet and opened door of the Bullpen, unseen by the other occupants of the room. From her vantage point, she couldn’t see, but she could definitely hear.

“Yes sir.” Sue’s voice was hesitant, a sure sign that she was unnerved at the sudden appearance of the Director. “What can I do for you?”

“It’s not what you can do for us, Mrs. Hudson. May I call you Sue?” There was a moment of silence, during which Sue must have nodded for when the Director’s voice resumed, he addressed her by her first name. “Sue, as you know, it is against Bureau policy for two team members to become involved. And, I assume it would be safe to say that you and Agent Hudson are involved.” There was laughter in the rich baritone voice.

“Yes sir. You could say that.” Lucy imagined the vivid shade of red that emblazoned Sue’s cheeks at that moment. “But I thought you had decided to amend the rules.”
“We had, Sue. But a certain thorn in our side from the New York office has become rather vocal.” It had to be Hackleford, Lucy thought as she continued to listen. “In order to remove this thorn, we have decided to modify your status. If that is all right with you, that is.”

“Modify it how?” The strain in her best friend’s voice was evident.

“We actually have two choices. One is to move you to another unit within this division. The other is to offer you the job of Senior Investigative Analyst for Field Operations here in D.C. The decision of course is yours.”

“I’ll need to run this by my husband,” Sue replied. The word ‘husband’ said as gently as a caress. “It’s not just my decision to make anymore.”

“Of course.” There was a grin in the Director’s voice. “And that is how it should be. Do you think you could give us your decision by the end of the week?”

“I think so, sir.”

Later that day, Sue and pulled Jack into a conference room. A short time later, they both left the Bullpen. Before the end of the day, they returned hand in hand. Hand in hand, they announced that Sue would be moving upstairs, effective immediately. There were congratulations all around. And Lucy’s had been the loudest, despite the twinge of jealousy that plagued even the memory. If she hadn’t overheard the conversation, she would have found out right along with the rest of the team. Although she knew that once Jack and Sue married, Jack would become the confidante she had been, that first time was still painful.

The team was just beginning to adjust to Sue’s absence when the next bomb was dropped. Hackleford, still trying to get Sue transferred to New York, once more approached the powers that be, rule book in hand. It seemed that the Bureau had a long forgotten policy about fraternization among superiors and employees under their jurisdiction below their rank. Since the team fell under Field Operations, that place Jack and Sue in the same predicament Sue’s promotion was meant to get them out of. Once again, the Director visited the Bullpen, this time to see Jack. And this time, with the Bullpen crowded with the rest of the team, Lucy was not privy to the conversation between Jack and the Director, but she was privy to the fall out.

She was just clearing her desk for weekend. Jack had been missing in action since the Director pulled him out of the Bullpen that morning. A sound in the doorway caught her attention. She lifted her eyes, her stomach knotting when she saw Jack and Sue standing there, hand in hand. Just like they did the day Sue’s promotion came through.

“Guys, could we have your attention please.” Jack’s voice was soft and calm, belying the emotions shimmering in his brown eyes. Happiness, relief, pride, satisfaction, disappointment, concern, fear, they were all there, painting his eyes different shades of brown. Next to him, Sue looked pensive, her bottom lip drawn between teeth in the way Lucy had come to know meant she was completely unnerved by something. “I know it’s late in the day, but Sue and I have another announcement to make.”

“What is it, Spark?” Bobby teased, his green eyes twinkling as his dimples deepened with the grin spreading across his face. “You and the Missus produced a little sparklet?”

“Or sparker,” Tara giggled.

Jack smiled, but it stopped at his lips even as he joined in the teasing. “Not yet, Crash.” He turned to Sue and chuckled at the blush spreading across her cheeks. “Unless there’s something you’re not telling me.”

“Jack!” Sue whimpered, swatting him gently on the arm.

Tittering laughter bounced around the Bullpen until D strode into the Bullpen, his face a solemn mixture of sadness and pride. “You tell ‘em, Jack?”

“Just about to D.”

The air in the room stilled as everyone held their breath. Lucy had the feeling of dread she often got just before she received a phone call about trouble in her family. The trouble usually being sickness or death. It couldn’t be death, Jack and Sue were standing right there. And neither one of them looked sick. In fact, they sported a healthy glow that both seemed to be lacking for the past three years. Finally, she had to break the silence. “What is it Jack?”

“Effective on Monday…” Jack’s eyes misted and his voice cracked. He turned to D, silently pleading. “D, I can’t.”

D nodded. Placing one arm around Jack and the other around Sue, he cleared his throat. “Effective Monday, Jack Hudson will be taking over the position of Deputy Director of Field Operations.”

“What?” Bobby’s voice was hardly more than a whisper.

“Why?” Myles replied, moving to lean against the corner of his desk, his brow furrowed above his concerned blue eyes.

“Hackleford.” Jack had managed to regain control of his emotions and spoke with a quiet, reassuring calmness. “He thought he’d be able to use some obscure rule to get Sue transferred to New York.”

“But I thought that’s why Sue was promoted to Senior Analyst here?” Tara questioned.

“It was,” Jack continued. “But he contends that, because Sue holds a higher position in the Bureau than I do in the same division, there is a rule against such relationships.”

“So they promoted you to a rank equal to Sue’s,” Lucy replied. A warm smile curled her lips. The Director could be as devious as she could be. “This shuts Hackleford up once and for all, keeping you and Sue in D.C.”

Jack nodded. He turned his gaze to the blonde woman by his side that had remained quiet throughout the conversation. All doubt and fear faded, replaced by a strong glimmer of confidence and strength. “Sue and I talked about it. And although she was willing to give up her position and take the transfer to New York or another team, I couldn’t let her. She’s worked too hard get to where she is. Besides, I’d be an idiot to pass up a promotion like this. Things like this don’t fall into your lap every day.”

“So, they’re breaking up the team,” Tara sniffed. Despite the tears in her own eyes, Lucy could see the glistening trail that had started down the computer whiz’s cheek. But neither of them held a candle to Sue. She’d given up all pretense of being strong and was softly sobbing against her husband’s chest.

“They can’t break this team up,” Myles answered softly. “A team is more than a group of people working a case together. It’s a group of people who care about each other. People who will be there for each other no matter what. And membership in a team like ours doesn’t end with promotions or reassignments. It’s a lifetime membership. Distance, whether it be two offices down, two floors up, or two thousand miles away won’t break up this team.”

“Myles is right,” D added. “Besides, just because they are part of ‘management’ now doesn’t mean that they won’t be around to help out.”

“That’s right,” Jack grinned. “Besides, I have it on good authority that it is part of my new job description to continue to keep Myles and Bobby from killing one another. I can’t do that unless I keep a daily eye on the Bullpen.”

Chuckles, warm with the knowledge that things change but never truly change echoed through the Bullpen. Only Bobby remained silent. Lucy noticed him stiffen, pulling himself to his full height and taking a step towards Jack and Sue. “Why Jack? Why did you give in without a fight?”

Jack took a deep breath, sighing as he exhaled. “Because, Bobby, this is the right thing for me to do. For Sue. For myself.”

“But what about the vow we made when we left Quantico, mate? The vow to never give up the field until we were laid beneath the cold ground?”

Jack shrugged, glancing into the Sue’s eyes. Peace unlike anything Lucy had ever associated with Jack descended over him, starting with his eyes. “That was ten years ago, Crash.” His gaze drifted to the Australian. “Things change. Priorities change. That was before I had a wife and, someday, children to think about. I know others have continued to be active in the field after they have families, but I’m not one of those men, Bobby. Sue is my life. And the thoughts of going out in the field on day and not coming back…” his voice cracked, but his gaze remained firm and steady, boring into his best friend. “I will not put her or my children in that position. Not if I can help it.”

“Well now I’ve heard it all,” Bobby huffed, flinging his hands in the air in disgust. “I never thought I’d see the day Jack Hudson let a woman pull him out of the field. What’s wrong Sparky? Turned chicken since you’ve got Sue’s skirts to hide behind?”

The muscle in Jack’s jaw tensed. Lucy noticed that he drew his hands into a fist, relaxing them as Sue’s hand gently touched his arm. Once again he looked at his wife, reading the silent communication that had been a part of them since the beginning. Very slowly, deliberately, he turned back to face Bobby. “Bobby, I don’t need to be in the field to feel like a man anymore. I don’t need the adrenaline rush of playing superhero to make me feel complete.” He pulled Sue into his arms. “I got what I need to feel complete the day I told this woman I loved her. I hope and pray that you’ll find someone that completes you the way Sue completes me. Maybe then, you’ll understand.”

Without another word, Jack had turned and strode form the Bullpen, his arm never leaving Sue. And, as promised, he had come by the Bullpen every day, but there was a distance between Bobby and Jack now that no amount of after work carousing or weekend’s spent trading dinners and picnics in the park could bridge. It had been going on for three months. And, in Lucy’s opinion, that was longer than it should have been. That was what prompted her visit to Sue’s office. She had made it her mission to accomplish a miracle at Christmas by reconciling the two friends. But she couldn’t do it without Sue’s help. Reaching out, she flipped the light switch on and off a couple of times. She grinned as Sue’s eyes lifted towards the door. “Luce! What are you doing here?”

“Seeing if I could bribe you with coffee from Bertha to come down to the Bullpen for a visit.”

More later
Kim

But... Jack and Bobby are supposed to always be best mates. This is not right. (It's weird how sad it makes me to think they're mad at each other!)

Tina

I have to agree with tina there its very weird as I
Also thought bobby looked to sue as his little sister hope things get
soughted out between them cant wait for more Kim
Lin

I think the senerio painted here makes a lot of sense. I could actually see Jack deciding to leave the field after he and Sue marry, and Bobby having a hard time with his decision. With Lucy and Sue seeking to help, I think they will be reconciled soon.

That self-serving Hackford just wouldn't give up. I hope this fixed his wagon.

This is sad situation that Jack and Bobby's relationship has cooled...but unfortunatly this

happens in real life...so very realistic.

I feel bad for Bobby. He's probably feeling betrayed because of the pact he'd made with Jack at Quanitco, but I think he blew the decision way out of proportion. He needs to know that promotions happen and he should be proud of Jack for recieving it... even if it was just to get Hackleford off of the Director's back.

Not that Jack doesn't deserve a promotion like that. He really does and Bobby will see that... even if Lucy has to hit him over the head with a frying pan...

I'm dribbling all over my keyboard shamelessly at the start of this post, Kim. But this paragraph let the flood gates open....
Then, OH, MY GOODNESS... Oh, Bobby, how can you be so cruel? I didn't think you would be that selfish to deny your best mate the happiness he now has with Sue! I think, after four months of the little adjustments to your relationship with Jack, this is the final straw that solidifies those changes and you're taking your loss out on Jack. What you need is to focus on finidng that someone to share your life, which is right there in the bullpen if you'd only take a closer look. Jack hit the nail on the head when he said Reading on....

A beautifully written post, as always, Kim, even if it did end on a sad note! I should have known things around the bullpen...now Hoover Bldg...would not go smoothly. This is a new twist for our team which I'm sure is going to become entangled in my heart, yanking it every which way until Lucy and Sue bring about reconciliation between Bobby and Jack. Looking forward to these twists and turns as I know it's gonna make my heart flutter out of control in all emotional directions, but end with me

Lynn

PS. I'm smiling at Lucy, wanting to "fix" what's broken among this group of friends-who-are-family! It makes me sad that Lucy almost always seems to be left out of finding everlasting love. Any plans to remedy that Kim?

Ouch -- though I have to admit I'm feeling a little betrayed myself. Of course things can't stay exactly the same all the time -- it's just when you've got a great team (or show) and it's really working than why mess with it? Sigh, not a single member of the team would get a promotion if it were up to me!

kav

If it makes you feel any better, I struggled with that last post myself. But trust me, everything will work out. And although the promotions will stand, that doesn't mean that the fun and teamwork is over. As Myles said, membership on this team is a lifetime membership. Nothing will truly tear the team apart. Just keep that in mind. And try not to call me too many horrible things in the meantime.

Alexi Ivanov was not a man to be trifled with. But it seemed that was what Nick Giantonio was doing. Trifling with him. Playing with him like a cat played with a mouse before moving in for the kill. The merger of the Giantonio and Ivanov families would form the largest crime syndicate on the East Coast. Maybe even the country. And, the Godfather that brought the most to the table would be the leader of the united families. So far, that seemed to be Giantonio.

I cannot allow that to happen, he thought. I must be the one to head the family. I cannot, after all these years of struggling and fighting go back to just being one of the flunkies. And I will not play second violin to that Italian Mafioso. He leaned back in the burgundy leather chair, folding his hands behind his head as he stared at the gray shadows that moved across the ceiling of his dim study. The only to ensure that he would come out on top was to show that Giantonio had a weakness. A flaw in his judgment that could be detrimental to the family.

A soft knock at the heavy oaken door of the study traveled the distance of the room and roused Alexi from his thoughts. “Come in,” he answered, his Russian accent even thicker due to the lack of sleep brought about by the endless hours of the meeting last night. A meeting that had proven completely fruitless. He leaned forward, eyebrows moving high across the invisible hairline of the smooth head in expectation as Mikel Grebnev and Benton Anderson, two of his closest “associates” entered the study. Those two had been charged to find that weakness. But so far, three weeks into their assignment and no word. Nothing that could threaten to topple the king. He hoped today would be the day that the scowling faces that approached would broaden into smiles as information came pouring from ready lips. “Well?”

Mikel glanced at Benton, nodding slightly as the somewhat younger man stepped forward and laid a thick file in front of their boss. “I think this is what you may have been looking for, Boss.” Mikel smiled.

Alexi glanced from the folder to the two men, grinning like a pair of Cheshire cats. His brow furrowed as he lifted the cover of the folder, a black and white photo of a dark haired man in leather jacket stared back at him. He recognized the man as one of the bodyguards always with Giantonio. Always following just a few steps behind, ready to move the man’s elbow to be taken into his confidence. He raised his eyes once again to the two men, leveling an icy stare at them. “Explain.”

“That is Tony Capono,” Benton began. “One of Nick Giantonio’s right hand men.”

“I know this,” Alexi growled.

“Ah,” Mikel stepped forward. “But do you know that he is also a Federal Agent?” Alexi forced his gaze to remain steady, his face unchanged, despite the surprise that rippled through him. “One of the best when it comes to infiltrating organized crime. His specialty is deep cover.”

“And how did you find this information?”

“An old associate of mine,” Benton replied. He reached over and flipped to the next photograph in the file. Alexi took in the mug shot of the man with strong Italian features, a crooked nose speaking of the countless street fights that forged the mountain of a man. “He is currently residing in the Pen at Cumberland, Maryland. All thanks to…”

“Tony Capono,” Alexi finished. An icy grin of pleasured surprise grew on his lips. “I think we have found our flaw.”

“What’s the next move, Boss?” Benton asked.

Alexi glanced at the planner on his desk. Christmas Eve was circled in red. It would be the final meeting. His last chance to gain the upper hand before the merger of the families was complete. Ten days. He could do a lot to gain information from the Fed once he had him in his hands. Information that would strength his position. And if he refuses to talk, the smile turned to an evil smirk. Then all the better. It will give the boys a chance to improve their interrogation techniques. Then, the slightly used and abused man would be presented to Giantonio during the Christmas Eve meeting. Handed over. The resulting gratitude would garner Alexi the coveted top position. Then he can do as he wishes with the Federal Agent, he thought, knowing an unidentified body would wash up on the banks of the Potomac days before the New Year. “Bring Capono here. Alive. I have plans that will keep him busy enough while enjoying our hospitality.”

More later
Kim

oh My this is getting very tense and scary now jack please dont go in not now they know something about tony I know he needs to be got out for his little princess but you have your big princess to care for dont do anything silly and watch your back I think i will be here for A little while till I know whats going on in jacks mind cant wait for more Kim
Lin

Call you names? Us? Do you really think we would do that? You write such wonderful stories that suck us into them each time we read and you think we'll grouse and grumble because we don't get our way?

Well, I can't speak for everyone else, but... you're darn right we will!

Nah, just kidding! Love ya bunches Kim, you know that.

I agree with you Kav...although I know things never stay the same, opportunities come and go and as Jack said in the last post, he would "be an idiot to pass up a promotion like this" But still....

Now Kim, how could I call you horrible things? I love your stories and and would never abandon you, even though I only seem to be able to keep up with one story at a time. And I do trust you and know that whatever happens, in the end, our team will be closer than ever!

Gotta run. My son is taking me out to eat...but I'll be back as soon as I can to read the next post.

Lynn

Rats... if I can't lay awake nights thinking of horrible things to call you, how
am I supposed to fall asleep? It's the same principle as counting sheep, only it engages the mind and tires it out as well, so you get a really good night's sleep.

Wait, I know another way to fall asleep... it envolves Jack and Sue fuzzies and you drift off with a huge smile on your face. Think you could help us out there Kim?

Better watch your back Tony, and you really better be glad Sue has such a positive influence over Jack...

Tina

Oh, what a Christmas present you're giving us, Kim, letting us in on the plan of the Russian mobster! Whew! Now the next ten days are going to be harrowing ones for our team as well as Ellen, Mary Alice and the boys, not to mention Tony! I can hardly wait to see what and and how they are going to do to Tony. I hope they don't kidnap little Mary Alice to get Tony to talk. Oh, what an awful thought going into Christmas eve! Shame on me! It must be the

Lynn

Thanks for reading guys! You are the best. No Jack and Sue fuzzies tonight, Tina. But soon.

Sue stared at her computer screen, not seeing the duty rosters and manpower hours she was suppose to be working on. She had convinced Lucy that it was a bad idea to make a trip down to the Bullpen as part of Operation Reunite Jack and Bobby. Relations between Jack and Bobby were strained to say the least. And she felt sure that Bobby was blaming her for the whole thing. After all, if she and Jack had never acted on their feelings, then both of them would still be on the team. In fact, she had a conversation with Jack about that a few weeks after the promotions came through.

“This is impossible, Jack. I’ve placed us in an impossible situation. You’ve lost your best friend. You’ve been pulled out of the field. And it’s all because of me.” Sue sat down on the sofa, pulling her knees up to her chin and hugging them as she stared into the unlit fireplace, unable to look her husband in the eye. “I’m beginning to wonder if this is worth it. If we are worth it. Maybe it would be better if…”

Jack’s fingers pressed against her lips, stemming the tide of words that were spilling out. With his free hand, he gently lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. A gaze filled with love and devotion beneath the cloud of fear that she knew her words had placed there. “Don’t say it Sue. Don’t you dare think it. Of course we are worth this. You are worth this. My dreams of a future with you is worth this.” He moved his hands to tenderly cup her face. This thumbs tenderly calloused from work ran across her cheekbones in gentle rhythm. Back and forth. Back and forth until she felt her uncertainties settle.

“This is not your fault, sweetheart. None of it. The choice to act on my feelings for you was mine. The choice to ask you to marry me was mine. The choice to take the promotion was mine. And these were choices I’d gladly make again and again and again. You are my only choice, Sue. You always have been. And you are more important than anything else in this world, my life included.”

Tears were wiped away by his thumbs as she blinked the rest away, slight doubt still lingering. “Jack, can you really be happy spending most of the day behind a desk? Can you really be happy without Bobby’s friendship? Can you…”

Again, his fingers pressed gently against her lips. His brown eyes glistening with unconditional love and adoration. “Yes. The answer to any question you could ask about this is yes, Sue. Sweetheart, I’d be happy in the Arctic as long as you were waiting for me in our igloo.” Sue chuckled and rolled her eyes, seeing the laughter in his eyes. “I love you Sue. And as long as I have you, that is absolutely everything I need.”

She sighed as she tried to refocus on the information in front of her. I’m the last person Bobby wants to talk to, she sighed. She had tried to work on Jack, gently urging him to sit down and talk to his friend. His reply was always the same. Bobby would come around. Just give him time. Then, with a devilish wink, he’d start to distract her. The warmth of a blush rushed to her cheeks as memories of the ways Jack had of distracting flooded her mind. She couldn’t help but wonder if it was one of those distractions that…

His scent roused her from her musings. She raised her eyes from the computer screen to see Jack leaning against the doorframe of her office. His grin was lopsided and the warmth in the depths of his chocolate eyes reached across the room and touched her heart. “Hey Beautiful,” she read as he pushed away from the door and made his way to her desk. Perching on the corner, he leaned over her shoulder and gazed at the computer screen. “Getting a lot accomplished.”

“Some,” she smiled, her heart hammering against her ribcage at his proximity. Married five months and he could still reduce her to mush by simply walking into a room. It was a feeling she hoped he would always stir. She turned her chair to face him, their knees brushing, causing a shiver of delight to run up her spine. She leaned closer, placing her hand on his thigh, just above his knee. “What about you? Meeting with Sullivan go well?”

He nodded. The twinkle in his eyes shadowed fleetingly by unsettled concern. “He’s agreed to let me assign another team to help.” His hand settled over hers, squeezing it gently. “I promised him the best.”

She smiled, knowing he was nervous about approaching their former team. She knew D, Myles, Tara and Lucy would jump at the chance. Bobby was a different story. He was the cause of the concern that dimmed her husband’s eyes. The two had not said more than three sentences to one another at any one time since that awful day in the Bullpen. Although Bobby continued to accompany the team to lunch or after work for dinner and a game of pool or a Saturday afternoon outing, he was distant. She turned her hand over and entwined their fingers, her thumb tracing gentle patterns over his knuckles. “Then the best is what you’ll give him.”

“I don’t know, Sue. It could mean asking the team to give up their holiday plans. Plus it would be the first time…”

“That you’ve come to them as their superior with a case. An order to help a fellow agent that all of them detest. And you’re wondering how Bobby is going to react.”

His jaw tensed. Sue knew even before he nodded that she’d hit the nail on the head. “Sue, are you sure this is the right thing to do? To help Capono out? You know we may not make it to Ohio or Wisconsin for the holidays if we do this. Are you sure it’s worth it?”

Sue sighed. She had been struggling with pushing too hard to get Jack to take this case, walking a tightrope between what she truly thought was best and allowing him to discover it on his own. But she knew they needed to do this. They needed to do this so that next Christmas and all the Christmases after, when they saw the season through new eyes, there would be no regrets over a little girl who didn’t get her Christmas wish. She closed her eyes and asked for the right words. Opening them again, she allowed her gaze to drift tenderly over his face. “What do you think, Jack? Do you think it’s worth it?”

Jack sighed, dropping his head until it came into contact with hers. He closed his eyes and she held her breath, silently offering him all the strength she had. Slowly he raised it, determination shimmering in the depths of his coffee brown eyes. “Tony’s not. But Mary Alice is. I’ll talk to the team.”

Sue squeezed his hand, determination settling into her heart. Her husband would not face this alone. None of it. Despite her own fears and trepidation at approaching the team, she would not let it stand in the way of her duty to support her husband. “We’ll talk to the team.”

More later
Kim

You've captured the essence of married life Kim, especially with Jack is still not quite sure of what he's about to do, so he asks Sue...but she knows he is seeking confirmation...and as much as she wants to validate his feelings, she understands he needs to decide for himself; so, she answers a question with a question...forcing him to do just that. Beautiful underlying message there Kim! It just doesn't get any better!

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Kim.

Lynn

Jack needs to realize that the "give it time" thing doesn't usually work. I mean, look how much time he had to give before he told Sue how he felt! If they followed that plan, it would end up being three years before he and Bobby would ever talk to one another again.

I'm laughing but this is a terrible situation. I hate it when Bobby and Jack don't talk to one another.

Change is hard...but I'm sure Bobby will come around and maybe some of Mary Alice's Christmas miracle will rub off on the team as well!

kav

Jack could feel Sue’s tension through their joined hands as they approached the Bullpen. He squeezed her hand gently, silently trying to reinforce the message he had been trying to get her to accept since her first days on the team. She was not personally responsible for every little thing that happened. Just when he thought she had learned that particular lesson, something like this fiasco with Bobby would come up. And the ten steps forward she’d made would be erased. Tenderly, slowly, he’d start the process of building up what the guilt of Judy’s death had torn down all over again.

He gave her a sideways glance, noting the paleness of her skin in comparison to the rich burgundy of the sweater she had chosen to wear. Her blonde hair, curling gently over her shoulders, a deeper honey color with the pallor of her cheeks as a backdrop. Despite the touch of pink blush she applied carefully each morning, she looked rather peaked. He furrowed his brow as she swallowed hard, wrinkling her nose as the strong smell of stale coffee mixing with the sweetness of fresh donuts that seemed to permeate the halls of the Hoover Building in the early hours of the workday. Was it just nervousness causing this reaction or was his beloved Sue coming down with the flu that seemed to linger in the air this time of year? He made a mental note to keep an even closer eye on her over the next few days. With the case and Christmas approaching, it would be all too easy for Sue to allow other things in her life to overshadow her own needs.

“I’m alright, Jack,” she smiled, responding to his inner thoughts as if she’d read them. “Just a little nervous about approaching the team.”

“The team or Bobby,” Jack frowned. The shadow that crossed her hazel eyes gave the silent answer. He stopped, pulling them to the side of the hallway. He released her hand, moving both of his to cradle her shoulders. He gazed into eyes stormy with uncertainty and reticence. “Sweetheart, stop worrying about Bobby. Like I keep telling you, this is not your fault. This is between Bobby and me. And we will work it out.”

“How Jack?” she whispered. She reached up, her fingers warm against his cheek as she traced the frown lines down and around the corner of his mouth. “How are you going to work it out when you haven’t said three sentences to one another at any one time?” He rolled his eyes and opened his mouth to speak, but she quickly pressed her fingers against his lips, stopping their movement. “I know I said I wouldn’t get involved, darling. But this is eating you alive. You have got to sit down and talk this all out with him. Either with me there or without me there. But you need to do this.”

I hate it when she’s right, he thought, smirking slightly before allowing it to dissolve into a sad smile. He reached up and pressed her hand to his cheek for a moment before curling his fingers around it and moving it back to his lips to press a light kiss against the silky fingertips. “I know. As soon as this case is wrapped up and Mary Alice has her Christmas miracle, I will.” He chuckled at the eyebrow raising disbelief that shimmered in her eyes. “I promise, Sue.”

“I’m holding you to that promise, Jack. You do know that right?” Teasing twinkles lit her eyes from within.

“I don’t doubt it for a second, Mrs. Hudson.” He winked, leaning closer while remaining far enough away for her to read his lips. “That’s what I married you for. To hold me accountable for my actions.” He brushed his lips over hers in the briefest feather soft contact before taking her hand and turning back towards the Bullpen.

“And I’ll be holding you accountable for that last action later,” she whispered as they approached the Bullpen. The husky sensuality in her voice caused a trill of expectancy to rush through him. He quickly ran down his mental to do list for the day and smiled as he realized they just might be able to make an early day of it.

“Well, well, well,” Myles’ voice, teasing and warm broke into his thoughts as they crossed the threshold into the Bullpen. “If it isn’t Deputy Director Hudson and the Missus.” He set his mug of coffee on the table beside the dilapidated coffee maker and moved across the room to take Jack’s hand and pull Sue into a warm hug. “To what do we owe this pleasure?”

Sue turned at the warm hand on her arm. Lucy’s smiling face greeted her. “Come to take me up on that offer of coffee?”

Sue shook her head, feeling a little nauseous at the thought of the dark sludge Bertha was known to produce. “No thanks, Luce. I’ve decided to cut back on my coffee consumption.”

Lucy gave her a cheeky grin. “Got other things to help keep you up at night, huh.”

She felt the heat rush to her cheeks. She lowered her eyes and studied the speckled patterns in the tile that covered the floor. “Something like that,” she mumbled.

“Looks like our coffee isn’t good enough for Senior Analyst Hudson anymore.”

Bobby’s tone was not teasing, but sarcastic and snide. Jack ruffled at the comment, glad that Tara had moved to distract Sue before she could read the commit on the Australian’s lips. He met the icy gaze with one of his own, feeling a small sense of victory as Bobby broke eye contact first, looking almost nervous as he did so. He gazed at his best friend for a second longer, deciding that a fiery response might just be what Crash was looking for. He swallowed his anger and spoke in a calm, even tone. “No Lucy, we didn’t come for coffee. We came with a request.”

“So the mighty Deputy Director of Field Operations needs the help of a lowly surveillance team.”

Bobby really was asking for it. Jack clenched his fist, his jaw working furiously as he fought to keep the sharp retort from flying from his lips. Luckily, Tara intervened quickly, not only physically stepping in the space between them, but offering a reply in a perkier than usual voice. “What can we do for you, Boss?”

“Well, it’s not really for us,” Sue replied. She could feel the tension rising in the room. She thought with Bobby and Jack staring daggers at one another, it might be better if she took the lead, giving Jack a chance to rein in the irritation she saw bubbling in the dark brown depths of his eyes. “It’s for Mary Alice Capono.”

She searched the room for reactions, seeing gaping mouths before resting on Myles’ lips as she caught the tail end of his reply. “Capono. Why would we want to help a Capono.”

“Not a Capono, Myles,” she replied softly. “A little girl whose last name happens to be Capono.”

Jack’s hand brushed her arm. She looked up and he offered her a small smile. With a wink, he took over the conversation as Sue stepped back to stand beside Lucy, giving her a better vantage point to follow the conversation. Her heart soared as Jack signed as he spoke, something he was becoming more and more comfortable doing. “Tony is on an undercover assignment. He’s in deep cover with the G-i-a-n-t-o-n-i-o family. But he’s not be heard from in over two weeks. Ellen came to Sue and I last night with a request.” He withdrew the letter from his jacket pocket. “Actually it’s a request from Mary Alice. That little girl wants Santa to bring her Daddy home.”

“And we figured Santa could use a little help on this one,” Sue added.

“That’s right,” Jack replied with a loving smile directed towards her. “I’ve been down to see Tom Sullivan this morning. He admitted that he’s a little worried about Tony. But he just doesn’t have the manpower to cover all his bases right now. He’s agreed to some help. And I offered him the best I have. That is if you guys are willing to take the assignment.”

“Is this a request or an order?” Bobby asked, all evidence of warmth absent from his voice.

“A friendly request, Crash,” Jack replied. He leveled his gaze at the Australian, challenging him to come back with another sarcastic reply. “I won’t order you guys to help out on this. But, regardless of what you decide to do as a team, I’m going to help. Despite my personal feelings for Tony, I can’t let this little girl, who has been through so much in the past year down. I may not be able to get him home for Christmas, but I won’t have to live with the regret of not at least trying.”

“I’ll help,” Myles replied. He shrugged as five surprised faces greeted his gaze. “What? I’ve got no plans for the holidays. Might as well make myself useful.”

“I’m in,” Tara replied. She smiled softly. “It’s my family’s turn to come to D.C. for the holidays. And with my parents and squabbling nieces and nephews and feuding siblings, I wouldn’t mind having to spend hours a day away from my apartment.”

“Mom’s coming in to spend Christmas at Grams, so I’m in.” Lucy grinned.

Bobby felt the heat of all eyes settle on him. He wanted to jump up and down and shout, “Of course I will, Jack. Don’t you know I’d do anything for you and Sue.” But male pride and the ripple of hurt that still edged into his spirit any time he saw the two of them together without him caused him to shrug instead. “Whatever.”

“So does that mean you’re in?” Tara asked.

He sighed, wondering when her twinkling eyes had become so irresistible. He nodded, turning back to his desk as if dismissing the rest of the group.

“Great!” Jack smiled. “Let Sue and I gather a little more information and we’ll be back to work out a plan.” He turned and started towards the door, waiting as Sue lingered for a moment longer.

“Thanks, guys.” Sue sniffed. She hurried to Jack’s side and out the door before the rest of the team could see the tears of gratitude that slipped down her cheeks. She was amazed at how easily the tears came during this time in her life.

Myles waited until he was sure Jack was far enough down the corridor to be out of earshot before he turned narrowed eyes in the direction of the Australian sitting sedately at his desk studying a file in front of him. He chuckled as the collective consciousness of the team seemed to be in overdrive when both Tara and Lucy beat him to the punch and lamblasted Bobby with identical words.

“Robert Manning,” they echoed, one voice slightly higher pitched than the other but both strident with anger. “What is wrong with you?”

More later
Kim

Flu? Why do I not think that's what's happening with Sue?

And Bobby needs whacked over the head for the way he's acting. I think Lucy and Tara should doubleteam him and knock some sense into him.

that was sad that bobbys behaving like that but they need to talk
and sue you need to rest as is there a little miracle thats there but your not sure yet
with the tears what a beautiful christmas present for jack to know your having either his son or daughter cant wait find out but at the moment they need to try and get tony home for christmas for his baby girl cant wait for the next chapter Kim

Lin

Merry Christmas!

“What’s wrong with me?” Bobby replied smoothly. I’ve been asking myself that same question for the last three months. He eased from his desk chair and moved to stand casually propped against the front corner, facing the Dotson and Williams demolition team head on. “What do you mean what’s the matter with me?”

“Well for one thing,” Lucy retorted casually sashaying closer, her arms folded across her chest like a drill sergeant waiting for a raw recruit to admit defeat and give up the ghost. “You were snide and sarcastic to Jack and Sue just now.”

“And for another,” Tara added, coming to stand beside Lucy. She struck a similar pose. Despite the petite size and lithe forms of the women standing in front of him, Bobby felt like a inmate about to be roughed up by two of the biggest ruffians on the cell block. He forced himself to meet the steel of their gaze with an air nonchalance that would rival Myles’. “Every time we’ve gone out with them here lately, all you’ve kept your distance. Kept quiet. That quirky sense of fun laced with teasing sarcasm nowhere to be found.”

“You’ve been like this for three months, Bobby,” Lucy reminded him. “Three insufferable months where we’ve kept quiet, thinking you might actually come to your senses. But no. Here you are as muleheaded as always. And we’re tired of it.”

“Yeah,” Tara nodded. “You have got to make peace with Jack.”

“Me?!” He was indignant. Could his team not see that he wasn’t the one who had left them behind? Didn’t they realize that he wasn’t the one who had broken a vow? A vow, be it one made in youthful ignorance, was a vow. “Why should I be the one to make peace with Jack? I’m not the one that has changed. Jack’s the one…”

“Who walked away from the team,” Lucy replied, rolling her eyes and sighing deeply. “We’ve heard this song before, Bobby.”

“And we’re tired of it.” Tara added. She flung her hands in the air in exasperation. “But he’s not the one who has changed, Bobby. He’s still the same guy who is trying to make the best decisions he can. Not only on the job but in his personal life as well. And he has not turned his back on us. As a matter of fact, we see more of him and Sue now than we did when they were in the Bullpen.”

“And it’s quality time they spend with us now. Talking about things friends talk about away from work. Cases and criminals no longer shadow the teasing fun.” Lucy’s voice softened, taking on the wistful sound of someone completely satisfied with the way life had turned out for her two dearest friends in the world. “Let’s face it, Bobby. They aren’t the ones who changed. You are. And I, for one, don’t like the new Robert Manning.”

“Neither do I.”

Tara’s sigh tugged at his heartstrings more than he was willing to admit. He’d made a fool of himself with her and he’d built a wall around his heart, not wanting a repeat performance of that night when he had mistakenly thought Darcy was the one for him. The perky computer whiz deserved better that what he had to offer. He had resigned himself to that fact weeks ago. Even before Jack and Sue left the team. Still, it hurt him deeply to know that Tara didn’t like him very much at the moment. Why was it that things seemed to always work out for Jack Hudson, golden boy of the Bureau when nothing seemed to work for him? Jack got the girl of his dreams. He got a promotion that left him able to do a job he loved without facing the dangers of the streets. Bobby felt the anger boil deep in his gut, rolling to the surface in a great surge that threatened to spew forth in harsh words.

Myles could see it coming in the reddening face and the darkening eyes. The sharp intake of breath through clenched teeth was his signal to step in before things got out of hand and Bobby said something that might irrevocably damage the already fragile relationship with the remaining members of the team. He eased away from his desk and reached for Bobby’s arm, gripping it with an iron grip. “Come on, Kola Boy. Let’s go get some fresh air.”

“I don’t need air,” Bobby retorted. Anger flashed in his eyes as he tried to wrench his arm from his friend’s tightening grip.

“You may not. But I do.” Myles kept his voice low but firm, manhandling Bobby towards the Bullpen door. “Jack said it would be a while. And since we don’t know how long we’re going to be stuck inside, let’s make the most of the time to get some sunshine in our souls.” As he pushed Bobby out the door, he turned and winked at the two relieved women still standing in the middle of the Bulpen. “It’s going to be okay, girls. Trust me.”



Ellen gazed at the glittering tree in the bay window of the house. Looking at the shimmering lights and assortment of ornaments that twinkled gaily in the colorful light, she could almost believe in miracles. Her eyes drifted from the plain lighted star that topped the tree to the wrapped packages below. The secret wishes of her children’s hearts were wrapped up in the whimsical green and red paper with reindeer and Santas scattered across it. There were new clothes and jackets, footballs and race cars, dolls and teddy bears; all the treasures she and Tony had gathered in the weeks just prior to his undercover assignment. She’d added a few things on her own, but not being able to watch the smile in Tony’s eyes as he picked out the treasures he wanted to pass on to his children, she didn’t have the heart to add much more.

She found herself wondering if the gifts Santa would place under the tree on Christmas Eve really would include the wish of Mary Alice’s heart. Can he possibly fit Tony down the chimney? She couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought of Tony sitting under the tree all covered with soot. Of course, she’d take him any way she could get him. Fresh tears burned her eyes as she silently prayed for his safe return.

Thoughts turned to the gifts under the tree bearing his name. Shirts and pants, a new winter coat and gloves, some video games that she knew he’d enjoy with the boys. But the gift she held closest to her heart was the new key ring with a key to not only the house but to her heart that she had wrapped in gold paper. She wished with everything in her that he would be there Christmas morning to unwrap it.

She wiped away the tears as her eyes drifted to the packages neatly wrapped by Tony’s hands that bore her name. He’d arrived on her doorstep the night before he went undercover, gifts wrapped in silver paper with blue bows cradled in his arms. She’d tried to get him to wait. Wait to deliver them to her himself on Christmas morning. But he’d gently refused, assuring her they’d be safer here than in his little apartment. “I promise I’ll be here to watch you open them,” he’d promised. “Trust me.” The words and the memory of his playful wink echoing in her mind. Trust him. That’s what she needed to do. Trust him to keep his promise. He’ll be there. Trust Me. The soft voice echoed in her heart as she tried to cling to the faith her daughter seemed to have.

More later
Kim

bobby why are you like this its not like you jack had to take the job or loose sue and let hackford win and noway could he do that or is it the little green eyed monster that hes got the love of his life and you wont admit your true feelings now please just get tony back for his princess then sought your selves out and talk to your best mate and get your act together cant wait for more Kim
Lin




MERRY CHRISTMAS Kim AND A BRIGHT
AND PEACEFUL 2008

Benton Anderson scrunched down behind the steering wheel of the nondescript black sedan. He slid the seat to within inches of the back seat and reclined it slightly, pulling his black and orange Baltimore Orioles' cap farther down on his head as he spread the newspaper he’d bought a block over across the steering wheel. He had a feeling it was going to be a long wait. He quickly settled into a pattern of glancing at the paper then out the windows of the car, carefully observing the surroundings before flicking to the middle window above the yellow and red awning of the Chinese restaurant. He would wait as long as it took for Tony Capono to come out into the chilly December air.

He reviewed Mr. Ivanov’s orders as he gazed at the unchanging scenery outside the car window. Rows of streetlights were decorated with dilapidated snowflakes held together by the white lights that would burst to life as the sun set. A gust of wind set the one nearest him to rocking, teetering ever closer to crashing to the pavement below if not for the dark wire that connected the lights to the power source stretching taunt but holding firm. Holding firm like he would do to protect Alexi Ivanov.

His boss’s orders were quite simple. Pick up Tony Capono and bring him back to one of Mr. Ivanov’s warehouses along the waterfront. Easy enough. The trick was getting him there without witnesses. With the negations between the Ivanov family and the Giantonio family at a critical juncture, his boss could ill afford Nick Giantonio associating the disappearance of one of his top goons with Alexi Ivanov. It would take careful planning and patience to take Tony without arousing suspicions. But it wasn’t impossible.

And it’s a task I’m looking forward to, he thought as he readjusted his newspaper against the steering wheel. He had watched federal agents like Tony Capono put away too many of his friends and associates. He relished the idea of getting back at one for the crimes of all the others. The sound of cracking knuckles deepened the grin. And boy was Tony Capono going to pay.



Myles handed Bobby the cup of coffee he’d just purchased from one of the vendors across from the Hoover Building. He and the Australian had made the trip to the little park in stony silence. He half expected the caramel colored liquid in the Styrofoam cup he pressed into his friend’s hand to be splashed back on him in retaliation for the forced march from the Bullpen. He hid the grin that curled the edges of his lips upward as the cup was taken with a grunt of thanks. He eased past his team mate and settled on the bench just on the other side. He gently blew on his own cup of coffee, sending the smoky steam swirling skyward. Taking a sip, he took in the measure of the man sitting beside him. Something was eating at Bobby Manning. And he had a feeling it was more than the sense of betrayal Bobby had been wearing like a badge of honor since Jack opted for the promotion. He needed to get to the bottom of this, before it began eating away at the team as well. He barely lowered the cup from his lips, staring past his friend as he spoke. “Want to talk about it.”

Bobby shrugged, sipping his own coffee as Myles continued to watch him from the corner of his eye. “There’s nothing to talk about,” he huffed.

Myles shook his head, chucking as he brought the cup back to his lips. “Well it looks as if we have once again come to different opinions, friend. Because I think with everything that’s been going on these past few months there is something to talk about.”

Again his comment was met with a shrug. Seeing that the anger was held at bay for the moment, Myles opted to push forward. “Things like why you can’t seem to be happy for Jack and Sue. Things like why you are so hung up on a promise Jack made when the most important thing in his life was whether to have the cream-filled or the jelly-filled donut with his morning cup of coffee.” He paused, cutting his eyes towards the reddening face of the Australian. “You know, if I didn’t know better, I’d think you were jealous of Jack. That maybe you wanted Sue for yourself. That maybe…”

“That’s a bloody lie, Mate.” The words were released on a rumbling growl from deep within Bobby’s chest.

Myles kept his cool, but slid a little farther down the bench. He shrugged and raised his cup to take another sip, speaking over the rim. “I’m just telling you what it looks like from the perspective of an outsider, pal.”

“But you’re not an outsider, Myles.” The voice was still touched by irritation, but was calmer than it had been a few minutes before. “You were there. You watched them struggle with their feelings. You know how excited I was for Jack when he finally made his move and realized that Sue’s feelings for him ran just as deep. Hell, I was best man at the wedding. Do you really think someone who wanted the girl for himself would’ve acted like that?”

Myles shook his head, lowering the coffee cup to the bench beside him. “No, Bobby. I don’t. But something is bugging you about this.” He raised his hand, halting the response that formed on his friend’s lips. “And don’t say it’s because Jack broke his vow to never leave the field until he was beneath the cold ground. It’s more than that and we both know it.” He gazed into the green eyes, watching as the fire of anger dwindled slightly. “Would you like me to tell you what I think it is?”

Bobby shrugged and gave him an eye rolling smirk. “I have a feeling you’re gonna tell me anyway, Harvard. So go ahead. Jump in. What is it?”

“Jealousy.” Again he raised his hand and stopped the sharp retort he saw swirling in Bobby’s eyes. “And not jealousy over Sue. Jealousy over what Jack and Sue have. The life they are living that you wished you had with someone.” He reached over and laid his hand on his teammate’s arm. “Not that you want that life with Sue. I know you think like the rest of us do. Sue is the younger sister we all want to protect and our hearts swelled with joy when we realized Jack would always be there to protect her. But you want a life where someone loves you the way Sue loves Jack. A life where you can love someone the way Jack loves Sue.”

He pulled his hand away, staring into space as he remembered those feelings that rushed over him whenever he saw the camaraderie on the team. He was jealous of the easy teasing and joking that went on between Bobby and Jack. But instead of trying to join in, he hid behind sarcasm and harsh words. Until Sue made him realize that there was another way. That even an outsider like him could belong. “Bobby, hiding behind the disappointment won’t solve anything. It won’t make the jealousy go away. In fact, it will only build resentment. Resentment is what dissolved friendships that have weathered every other storm for more than ten years. Don’t let it happen, Bobby. Don’t let yourself wake up twenty years down the road when the Bureau is a distant memory and the last address you have for Jack is the apartment he had before he married Sue and wonder what might have been. You can’t play pool with the what might have beens of life.” He patted his friend on the back before standing and walking away, leaving Bobby with his thoughts as snowflakes floated down from the darkening sky.

More later
Kim

Take heed Bobby - those were very wise words that Myles has uttered.

And I can't believe I am about to type this but - watch out Tony!!

Sam

bobby listen to what myles is telling you then go and see jack and talk to him tell him yout feelings better still tell tara your in love with her so try and talk to them and soon more soon please Kim
Lin

Last post of the day, guys. Thanks again fro reading!


Bobby didn’t know how long he sat on the park bench, the snow settling gently in his hair and on the shoulders of his dark overcoat. He was too lost in thought. Myles’ words had hit their mark, giving him pause as he thought of what Jack and Sue had meant to him over the years. Jack, the brother he’d always wanted and never had. He’d bailed him out of more jams than he cared to remember. Including that gambling fiasco that could have easily cost him his career. And while Jack had gently lectured, he offered his help freely, expecting nothing in return.

And Sue. Sweet, compassionate Sue. She had changed them all for the better. In watching her fight to overcome the obstacle and prejudices life could still hurl at people seen as different or disabled, he had found the strength to face his own past and move beyond it. And while he freely admitted that he himself had been attracted to her in the beginning, it didn’t take him long, watching the shy glances and the creeping blushes to know that his best friend and the blonde analyst were destined to be. He’d bowed out without every really being in picture, opting to offer his support to Jack, pushing from his side while Lucy pushed Sue from hers. One look at them and anyone could see that they were the perfect partnership both professionally and personally.

Darn! Myles is right. He was jealous. Not of the fact that Jack had won Sue. After all, there never really was a contest. But jealous of the love they shared and the life they were building. It was what he had dreamed of since Darcy. Finding that one special woman who completed him in the way Sue completed Jack. Then, when Darcy had rejected him, he watched the dream disintegrate before his eyes. It was made easier knowing Jack was in the same boat; alone and dreaming of what might be. The difference was when Jack decided to act on his dreams, they had come true. Sue didn’t choose New York over his best friend like Darcy had chosen L.A. over him. But he had pushed the hurt away, reveling in the happiness that seemed to permeate the Hoover Building. Throwing himself into his role of best man and taking pride in knowing his best friend had gotten what he deserved. But when the promotions came and Jack was gone, the old hurts resurfaced. Once again, just like with Mac and Darcy, Bobby felt as if he had been rejected. He knew down deep that he hadn’t been. That only the positions had changed, not the friendship.

He stood up and trudged back through the light layer of snow to the Bullpen. His eyes took in the pristine beauty of the white blanket that covered the trees and sidewalk in front of him covering the dirt and crude beneath. He found himself wishing that mistakes in life could be erased that easily. He wanted his friendship with Jack and Sue to go back to the way it was before that awful scene three months before. He wished it with his entire being. The problem was, he didn’t know if it were possible. Perhaps too many harsh words had been spoken. Perhaps too much time had passed. And if not. If it were possible to regain what he, through his muleheaded pride, had lost, he didn’t know where to start. He didn’t know how to go back or how to move forward. As his hand reached for the entrance door to the Hoover Building, he decided, for the moment, he would just stand still. Stand still and be vigilant for the sign that would point him in the direction he needed to go.

By the time Bobby made it back to the Bullpen, Tom Sullivan was placing pictures on the white board, names neatly written beneath each one. Lucy was taking notes from Beverly, Tom’s rotor. Tara, Myles, Jack and Sue were standing around Tara’s desk staring into her computer screen. He took off his coat and shook the snow from its dark material before hanging it on the coat rack. For a moment, he stood there, still and waiting. He felt a gentle paw brush against his thigh. Looking down he was greeted by Levi’s doggie grin and twitching eyebrows. He bent and scratched the golden ears. After a moment, Levi bounded away, settling in front of the group huddled around the computer. He looked back and seemed to beckon Bobby to follow with a slight nod of his head. There’s my sign, he thought. It wasn’t forward or backward, but across. Across the bridge of friendship Jack had refused to burn completely. Cautiously, he took the first step, each one that followed easier than the one before.

Jack raised his head as he heard Bobby approach. He started to welcome him with a teasing grin, ribbing him about his tardiness. But memories of recent weeks when his attempts at past humor was greeted by an icy stare caused him to turn and address the entire group. “Tom. If you’re ready, let’s get this show on the road.”

“Sure thing, Jack.” Tom moved into position beside the white board, the others filling in the area between the desks. Jack leaned against the edge of one of the desks. He pulled Sue to him, wrapping his arms around her waist and pressing her back against his chest. It gave her the best position on the room to follow the conversation. And he could sign what she missed without distracting the others. “These are the major players in the undercover assignment Tony is working on.”

Jack listened carefully, fingerspelling names as Tom introduced Alexi Ivanov and Nick Giantonio, the heads of the two families negotiation a merger. He then moved to the more prominent associates of each family. Benton Anderson and Mikel Grebnev of the Ivanov family and James Robinson and Patrick Moretti of the Giantonio family. “Tony’s job was to penetrate the Giantonio family, which he has done, and find some weakness in one or both families that could keep the merger from occurring,” Tom explained. “The problem is we have lost contact with him. This probably means that he has had to go even deeper undercover making contact too risky. I feel that he has passed along enough information during previous contact to pull the door on the operation. The weakness is there and we can shut both families down. But first, we need to get Tony out. That’s our priority.”

“And what’s the best way to accomplish that?” Sue asked.

“Send in someone else undercover. Maybe two people undercover. One in each family. The problem is after getting Tony in, our means of infiltrating the families disappeared. I’m not sure how to get anyone else in.”

“I’ve got an idea, Mate,” Bobby volunteered gently. “I’ve been meaning to pay a Christmas visit to Mac. Maybe he’s got some contacts that could get us inside.”

Jack sighed. He knew how hard visiting Mac was for Bobby. To visit and ask for help was going to be a bitter pill for Bobby to swallow. After everything that happened over the last three months, he wasn’t so sure this was a good idea. “Bobby,” he called gently. “That’s not necessary. I think we can come up with another way to get inside. One that doesn’t involve you working with Mac again.”

“But this is may be the quickest way to get inside, Jack.” Relief spread as no hint of sarcasm was noted in his reply. “And if history has taught us anything, time is of the essence when dealing with the Mob. Things can go south in a hurry. And if we want Mary Alice to get her Christmas wish, the sooner we get in, the quicker we get Tony out. Besides Spark, I wanna do this. I can handle it.”

Jack’ reply caught in his throat as Sue caught his arm and squeezed. He looked down into warm hazel eyes that bid him to stop and listen. Not to the words but to the intent behind the words. Bobby was taking tentative steps towards reconciling the hurt and anger of the last few months. The least he could do was meet him halfway. “Okay Crash. If you’re sure.” A curt nod answered. He glanced at his watch. It would take time to make arrangements to visit Mac at Cumberland. “I’ll call and make the arrangements for us to visit first thing in the morning.”

“Us?” Bobby asked, relief and confusion flooding his face.

Sue stepped forward, reaching for her husband’s hand and Bobby’s arm. “You didn’t think we’d let you face him alone, did you Bobby? Come around to the apartment first thing in the morning and Jack and I’ll treat you to a home cooked breakfast before heading out.”

Bobby’s smile was genuine for the first time in months. Jack felt the tension leave the room as Bobby nodded, a flash of reconciliation lighting a twinkle in his best friend’s eyes. “You’ve got yourself a deal, sheila.”

More later
Kim

So VERY glad to see Bobby taking steps toward reconciling with Jack and Sue. I think I'd like to hug Myles for knowing how to talk some sense into him. And bless Sue for that hand squeeze... letting Jack recognize what Bobby was doing by volunteering to go see Mac.

Another wonderful story Kim.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Tina

My goodness, a girl can’t even take a day and a half off from reading and you post 4 times? Thanks for the Christmas gift.

12/24 – Page 6 – Post #78 – Oh, so much in this one post to comment on, Kim. I loved how you worked in Sue’s demons of guilt and responsibility depicted in the pilot episode thru Jack’s description of Sue’s tension over Bobby and Jack’s relationship, especially these lines: A beautiful and poignant start to this post and continued with Jack’s observations on Sue’s health. Now, do I detect a little bundle of joy heading Jack and Sue’s way, and not even she is aware of it? And Jack thinks she might be coming down with the flu? Yes….what a great Christmas gift that would be, for them and for us!

Sue IS right Jack….and I can’t wait for Sue to hold him accountable. But, will we really have to wait until this case is over? Or will the end of this day come during one of these four posts?

One can only hope!!!!

Myles’ greeting was so sweet, maybe his way of helping to alleviate the rift caused by Bobby’s attitude. And Bobby…you are downright vengeful…trying to hurt Jack and Sue with your cutting words. But then we get a glimpse of…what…jealousy? Oh, come on Bobby…you were in the wrong and you need to go to Jack and Sue and apologize. Well, maybe Sue does know she is pregnant and she hasn't told Jack yet? Oh, my sentiments exactly Tara and Luce! As I said, Kim, so much going on here…

Reading on.....

Lynn

Whoo-hoo! I'm so happy that I feel like I could cry. Bobby's finally coming around and he and Jack are heading in the right direction. I just know that when Bobby finally officially apologizes, I'm going to completely lose it and break down into tears. And Kim... I love you for that!

12/25– Page 6 – Post #81 –Myles, you are a lifesaver, for Bobby was definitely on a path to say Excellent depiction of Tara and Lucy’s confrontation and Bobby’s vengefulness. Now Myles, if anyone can set Bobby on the straight and narrow, it’s going to have to be you! A nice way to end this post, on Ellen’s thoughts. I’m glad she’s ready to give Tony not only the key to the house, but to her heart as well. Kim, I love how you are turning this character we wanted to strangle into one that will erase the sour taste he left in our mouths with one of sweetness. This is a wonderful story…so full of the hope and joy of Christmas!

12/25– Page 6 – Post #83 –What a scary guy this Anderson fella is! I only hope Tony is up to the torture Anderson will put him thru.

Myles, I never thought I would ever say this…but, I love you! That was a beautiful speech you gave Bobby. You hit the nail on the head and said exactly what needed to be said! It sounded like something our beloved D would say; but, I think, carried more weight than if D had said it, b/c he is always the one who steps in to settle things going on with the team. You have come a long way….and right now I could give you a big hearty

12/25– Page 6 – Post #83 –Kim, I got a lump in my throat and tears began pooling in my eyes from almost the first words of this post; but I totally lost it with these lines. I had to pause reading b/c I couldn’t see the words for all the tears. Ok, now that I’m able to read on…couldn’t they get Tony out by simply arresting him, along with the two mob bosses, their associates and their other bodyguards? But, I guess that would just be too easy and we wouldn’t have this spine-tingling story to look forward to. I was back to tears again at Bobby’s reconciliation steps and Sue’s wise handling of Jack, then her invitation to Bobby to join them for breakfast.

Now, who is the second one going undercover? Will it be Myles? Tara? One of Sullivan’s men? And now that we have an immediate plan of action to garner information for the final plan of action, it seems to me it’s still early enough in the afternoon for Sue to give Jack some “accountability” lessons, don’t you think?

After all, it could be considered hands-on training...you know....to make Jack a better "accountable" Deputy Director ...not that I think he really needs any training in that arena...but it sure would be fun for us, not to mention Jack and Sue! And on that thought, I’m going back to bed now…I think I’ll be able to go back to sleep with sweet dreams after that...er...these four wonderful posts! Thank you Kim for a great story!

Lynn

Kim, I've been off doing Christmas and family things, but realized as I started catching up, how much I miss your stories when I'm not here!!!

I agree with the others - you have made the team even more real to us than they already were!! I felt real regret when Sue had to leave and then Jack!! The struggle between Jack and Bobby was painful to watch!! Nothing should ever come between them!!!

I'm with Lucy, I think the new arrangement, although a major change, is bringing the team closer together!! Hackford tried to cause a rift, but failed miserably, as I knew he would!!!

Tony is in real trouble and the team is going to have to move fast!! It's not good that they will be going in with at least one of the families knowing who Tony is, therefore maybe guessing who they are!! I hope they can pull this off and bring Tony and themselves home safely!!!

Yes, I do believe that tension or flu are not the reasons for Sue's stomach problems!! It sounds like she and Jack may just have a Christmas Miracle of their own!!!

Joy

The flames in the fireplace danced in Jack’s eyes. Although he was sitting on the sofa, Sue knew he was a million miles away. Forehead furrowed slightly, the small wrinkle barely visible between the dark arches of his brows, his dark eyes staring into the dancing orange and yellow flames but seeing none of it, contemplation mixing with question but beneath it all a contentment that she saw burst to life the moment she accepted his proposal. He was going back over the day’s events. Reliving and reanalyzing every nuance of what Tom Sullivan had said. Questioning the sincerity of Bobby’s tentative steps towards reconciliation. Replaying everything from the moment he pulled into the parking garage at the Hoover Building until he pulled out again. It was his nightly routine. And she allowed him time to reflect. But not too much time. She learned early on that too much time spent in reflection often raised doubts in his own ability. Second guessing that would last until the morning and make for a fitful night for both of them.

She dried her hands on the kitchen towel and glanced at the clock on the white microwave oven. 15 minutes, Hudson. Time’s up. She smiled as she remembered the promise to hold him accountable made in the corridors of the Bureau. It was most definitely time to keep that promise. Throwing the dishtowel onto the counter by the sink, she sauntered into the den.

Now if Mac is able to get us in, who should go? Myles doesn’t really look the part, although he might pass for a Russian mobster. And that is one of the languages he’s fluent in. Bobby has the natural ability to slip into that street tough persona. But he’s been so unpredictable here lately, I’m not sure his head could be a hundred percent in the game. I guess that leaves…

The aroma of lilacs swirled in his nostrils just before Sue’s arms slipped around his shoulders, her chin resting in the crook of his neck as she nuzzled her nose against his jaw just in front of his ear. Her lips, barely grazing his skin moved backwards until they met his earlobe. She nipped and teased, soothing with the gentle roughness of her tongue as her breath whispered in his ear. He groaned as her hands began a tortuously slow journey over his shoulders and down the cotton fabric of his t-shirt. The hairs on his arms standing on end at the barely there touch that tickled and tantalized. “Enough thinking for tonight, Deputy Director Hudson.”

“Oh really,” he breathed, turning to face her. His heart was pounding against his ribs, his breathing ragged and shallow. “And just why is that, Analyst Hudson?”

“Because, those thoughts will still be there in the morning. But right now, you need to be accountable for those earlier actions of yours.” Her hands had reached the hem of his shirt. One tugged lightly, opening space for the other to slip beneath and begin a slow journey across the skin of his abdomen. His muscles rippled in response to her tender featherlike touch, his breath catching between chest and throat.

“And what actions would those b…”

Her parted lips swallowed his words. Her tongue, soft as a rose petal brushed across his, causing a tremor to build deep within, continuing upward and outward until his fingers trembled in response. His wrapped around her waist and gently pulled her over the arm of the sofa and into his lap. His lips left hers, trailing across her cheek and down her jaw. His name escaped her lips on a whisper as she arched her neck, allowing him to continue a southward journey, her pulse beating a steady and strong rhythm against his lips as he lingered near the base of her throat. Easing his hand from her waist, his index finger trailed up the tiny row of button. Reaching the topmost one he used thumb and fingers to free it from the buttonhole, his tongue lapping lightly at the sliver of newly exposed skin. Her breath tickling his ear stilled his hand for a moment. “Let’s take these actions elsewhere.” Her voice was husky and seductive.

He pulled away slightly, gazing into eyes that were several hues darker with the passion swirling within. He slipped his arm beneath her knees and wrapped the other around her lower back. She gasped, wrapping her arms around his shoulders as he eased himself from the sofa. Stepping around the end of the coffee table, he tasted her lips once again, drawing away so she could see his lips. “Your wish is my command.”

Down the hallway, kisses mingled with sighs matching the rhythm of his steps. The bedroom door, left ajar swung gently inward with the touch of his knee. It swung violently closed with his foot in his haste to cross the room to the inviting comfort of the bed they shared. He eased her down among the satiny softness of the sheets, her hands reaching for the hem of his shirt even as their lips touched in gently building fervor. He lifted his arms and eased away as she brought it up and over his head. He claimed her lips again as both hands set about freeing her of the restraints of her shirt. Staring into eyes that reflected not only his passion, but the love of his soul, he eased the material from her shoulders, sliding his hands along the silky smoothness of her arms until it fell to the bed and her arms reached to encircle his neck, drawing him into the warmth that flooded his soul.

The winds rattled the windows. The snow fluttered slowly to the ground. Thoughts of the case and how to proceed floated to the depths of his mind as he held her in his arms; kissing, caressing and merging until only one existed.



Tony knelt by the pullout bed that was still rumpled from sleep. He placed one hand on the mattress and, with the other, fished underneath, pulling first one shoe then the other from the place they seemed to mysteriously move to whenever they weren’t on his feet. He chuckled at the memories of bedtime stories he’d told Matty and Mary Alice about elves and gnomes that moved things out of their usual places just for the fun of watching humans hunt for them. His kids loved those stories, just as he had when he was a boy.

My kids, he thought, the sad ache of loneliness building in his heart. He sniffed back the tears that always threatened to fall but never made it past his lashes as he sat down on the edge of the bed. His kids were his life, as was Ellen. The problem was, he’d realized it too late, not changing his priorities until it was too late to regain the lost years and trust broken promises left in the dust. He despised what he had become. And he hated himself for allowing it to be this way.

He thrust first one foot then the other into the black boots that were part of the dress code of the streets. Not of the first time, he found himself wishing he were stepping out of his shoes at home with Ellen and the kids instead of into them to guard the Mob family he’d become a member of. When this case is over, he vowed as he stood up and reached for the shoulder holster on the table by the arm of the sofa. He pulled it up over his shoulders, snapping it in place and adjusting the side arm that his leather jacket would keep hidden from view. When this case was over, he was pulling out. Either demanding a transfer or leaving the Bureau all together. He shrugged into his jacket, picked up his keys and headed towards the door. He reached and flipped off the lights then closed the door behind him.

Finally, after years of playing the bad boy who never grew up, his priorities had changed. It had taken losing Ellen and almost losing Mary Alice to make him realize what was important in his life. Once this case was over, he was going to fight to get those things back; Ellen and the life he wanted to share with her and their children. No longer did he care if he looked good in the eyes of his superiors. That didn’t matter. What did matter was how he looked in the eyes of his children. He wanted to be there to coach Matt in little league. He wanted to watch Mary Alice grow stronger and prettier by the day. He wanted to watch Chad and Kyle grow from the toddler and baby they were to the men they could be. He wanted this more than anything. It was his Christmas wish. When this case is over, he thought as he stepped onto the sidewalk and felt the pain of metal as it met his temple and his world went black.

More later
Kim

Aw, the accountability lesson. That was very nice, Kim. But I don't think Jack quite got that lesson...I think he'll be needing another.

It's beginning for Tony. I hope and

he will be able to draw on his faith to get him thru these next torturous days.

Oh, and just who was Jack thinking of here: Now, he's not thinking of himself is he? No....he couldn't be.... he's a deputy director...DD's don't go undercover...don't jeopardize their lives like that...do they?

Lynn

I couldn't wait any more and just HAD to begin reading your story.  I LOVE IT!!!!!!  I've enjoyed sneaking every moment I could to catch up to this point.  Only now I'm scared that Jack is going to go undercover and free Tony only to be captured himself...and that's just not right!I think the strained relationship with Bobby is very believable and am so glad they seem to be on the verge of straightening that back up.  And Sue seems to have some news to share with Jack...or does she even know herself yet?I'm looking forward to more!

caught up on 2 wonderful post so pleased bobbys trying to let by gones be by gones and get back the close friendship he had with jack and sue and that they are welcoming him back just hope they can give tony what he wants as well but I know its jack going with him so please keep them safe as I believe sue will need him more than ever more soon please pretty please Kim
Lin

I agree with Lynn. Jack will need to be taught this lesson over and over. After all, we learn most things by repetition, right?

Tony's going to be need help... quick. I feel a queazy, icky feeling in the pit of my stomach, and it's got nothing to do with the amount of pie I ate during Christmas!

Tina

Wow, that ending was jarring...I just didn't expect it any more than Tony did...and I actually feel sorry for the guy! You have turned my world upside down, Kim!

kav

Jack and Sue.........!! I love it when she makes him accountable!!!

Poor Tony (I never thought I'd say that)!! I would go and hide, but I'd miss out on the action!!!

Joy

Thanks for reading, guys. I'm glad you are enjoying this.

Tony squeezed his eyes shut against the blinding light that penetrated his eyelids and the throbbing pain that pounded in his head. He started to lift his hands to cradle his head until the pain eased. He had lifted them a fraction of an inch when they fell back to his side, his wrists stinging as the corded rope dug into his flesh. The fact that his hands were immobile didn’t register in his fogged mind. He lifted again. Again the ropes that bound his hands behind his back bit into his flesh. “It vill do you no goot to struggle, Comrade.” The low pitched voice with the thick Russian accent resonated in his ears, a cacophony of sound that seemed to bounce around inside his head like the an echo caught in a canyon. He shook his head to try to clear the noise and make sense of the words he heard and the angry burning of his wrists. “You might as vell sit back and relax. You vill be vith us a few days.”

Slowly he opened his eyes to tiny slits that allowed more of the glaring light to penetrate and pulsate in his head. His lips were dry and cracked. His tongue felt thick and heavy as he tried to push it past his teeth to moisten his lips. For a fleeting moment, he wondered if this was what a cotton ball tasted like as he eased his mouth opened. “Where am I?”

“You are my guest, Comrade Capono.”

The accent mingling with the stale odor of Cuban cigars began to register in his clearing mind. “Ivanov.”

“Correct, Mr. Capono. Or should I say Agent Capono.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Tony answered smoothly. His eyes had adjusted to the light enough to open them halfway. He moved them slowly around the room, wincing as even that slight movement sent shooting shards of pain through his head. He took note of the two big goons standing on either side of a metal door. He recognized them as Benton Anderson and Mikel Grebnev. The dim gray room with the 1000 watt light bulb suspended from a low hanging dark metal fixture suggested he was inside a warehouse office. He forced his eyes to open fully, leveling a calm gaze at the Russian Mobster sitting across the steel table with the greenish-gray rubberized top. “I’m Tony Capono, trusted bodyguard for Mr. Giantonio.”

“You are Tony Capono, special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation.” Ivanov’s voice was edge with irritation. He stood up and moved to stand beside Tony. He placed one hand on the back of the metal chair Tony was tied to and the other hand, palm flush against the tabletop. The Russian leaned so close that the smell of Cuban cigar smoke threatened to overwhelm him. He fought the urge to shrink back into the chair, not willing to allow the mobster to intimidate him. He sat up straighter, standing his ground. “You are a filthy Fed.”

“I’m Tony Capono, trusted bodyguard to Nick Giantonio,” he repeated through clenched teeth. He stared, unblinking into the gray-blue eyes of Alexi Ivanov. “And I don’t think Mr. Giantonio is going to be too happy when he finds out what you’ve done.” He shook his head, despite the increase in the pain, clucking his tongue against his teeth. “Tsk, Tsk. I think the negotiations are going to take yet another turn.”

The gray-blue eyes flinched, darkening slightly as an evil grin pulled first one side and then the other of the fishlike mouth upwards. “You let me worry about that, Mr. Capono. You, on the other hand, need to work on learning to speak the truth. Perhaps my boys here can help you.” Ivanov stepped away, snapping his fingers. Benton and Mikel approached, knuckles cracking. Tony took a deep breath and closed his eyes as the first fist made contact with his jaw.



Matt had been struggling with his decision to help Mary Alice out with her letter all week. As much as he wanted his little sister’s Christmas wish to come true, he wasn’t so sure she was going to get it. He was afraid that his agreeing to write the letter for her had only perpetuated the idea that Santa would bring Daddy home for Christmas. He didn’t think he could stand the disappointment in her brown eyes when they woke up on Christmas morning and Daddy wasn’t anywhere to be found. With a deep sigh, he slid out of bed and padded down the hall to the living room and the one person who would know how to handle this.

“Mom,” he whispered as he eased into the den. “Mom,” he called again as he approached the overstuffed armchair where his mother sat reading one of her favorite books. He knew it was a favorite because of the tattered book jacket and frayed pages. Her eyes swung from the book in her hands to meet his gaze. “Mom, can I talk to you for a minute?”

“Sure Matty,” she smiled, swinging her legs off the ottoman and closing her book. He slumped down on the blue leather ottoman, his head hanging low as he watched his toes drawing patterns on the carpeted floor. “What is it, sweetheart?”

“Mom, do you believe in Santa Claus?”

Ellen raised her eyebrows. Her little boy was growing up so fast, the mysteries of childhood disappearing one by one. But not this one. Not this year. “Yes, I do, son. At least in the spirit of giving he represents.” She watched him brighten, his head lifting a little and his feet stilling.

“Do you believe he can do the impossible? That he can bring even those wishes you think he’d never be able to pull off?”

A slow, sad smile curled her lips. She knew exactly where he was headed with this. After all, it was his familiar handwriting that she had read a few short days ago, revealing Mary Alice’s heartfelt wish. And now, her sensitive little boy who was trying so hard to be the head of the family was concerned about his little sister having her heart broken all over again. So was she. She took a deep breath, praying for words that would bring comfort to her son without giving false hope that could be dashed on Christmas morning. “I believe that Santa does everything in his power to make all our Christmas wishes come true. Sometimes, things are beyond even his control. But that doesn’t mean that we won’t get our wishes.” She reached over and took his smaller hand in hers, her thumb gently running back and forth across his knuckles. “Sweetheart, look at me.” Dark eyes that matched Tony’s lifted to meet her gaze. She smiled an bumped the end of his nose with the index finger of her free hand. “I think Santa makes all our wishes come true. Some may not arrive on Christmas Day. They may arrive days or weeks later, but they arrive.”

Matt’s eyes brightened and a genuine smile bloomed on his lips. “Thanks, mom,” he trilled. He jumped from his seat and flung his arms around her neck, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “That’s all I needed to know.” He was across the room and padding back down the hallway to his bedroom in a flash.

Ellen stared after him for a moment, smiling in wonder at the resiliency of children. The smile slowly faded as tears blurred the empty hallway before her eyes. She raised her eyes to the heavens and spoke in a silence. Tony Capono, don’t you dare make a liar out of me. You stay safe and get yourself home. By Christmas. And that’s an order.

More later
Kim

Oh, this doesn't look good for Tony at all!!!

Ellen is a very wise woman, and a wonderful mother!!!

Joy