Karen, welcome to the challenge!! I see you are trying for that "Most Compelling Opening Sentence"!! I almost choked on my orange juice!!!

I kept reading, especially when Flip said she'd give you a chance, and I'm glad I did!!

A dream (although in my way of thinking, more of a nightmare)!! And, Sue was very smart to take the wayward Bobby to Lucy!! I have to say, as usual, you have all the characters spot on - especially Lucy!! I could hear that whole scene in my head!!!

I can't wait to see how Lucy and the others decide on a plan!! And, side to Sue, trust all of us, you LOVE Jack and he LOVES you!!!

Karen, I hope your children are on the mend!!!

Joy

Can Lucy come and sort me out next?

kav

Good characters in character!

“You must be stark raving mad.”

“First Lucy, now you. Stow it Harvard. I don’t see you offering any solutions, beyond Sue leaving the team so Sparky can pursue her.”

“I didn’t say it was a good solution. I merely pointed out a personal benefit our esteemed analyst might enjoy upon accepting the posting in New York. Personally I am delighted she’s chosen to stay. And don’t go scaring us again like that young lady, or I’ll get Wonderdog to put you on the leash.”

Clear laughter echoed around the apartment. Reaching out to pat the Bostonian’s hand, Sue smiled. “Thank you for your friendship Myles... I think.”

Surprise flitted briefly across the other man’s face before giving way to wonder and acceptance. “We are, aren’t we? Friends that is.”

“Better than friends,” Sue assured him, squeezing his larger hand. “I consider you part of my family; a part I’ve very glad not to be leaving.”

The blonde agent nodded in appreciation. “That you think of me as family is an honour I won’t take lightly. Since this is the case, I feel it is incumbent upon me to perform my brotherly duty. I shall protect you from the lunacy of Koala Boy’s latest scheme.”

Shaking his head in dismay, Bobby released a long-suffering sigh. “It wasn’t that bad.”

“Not that bad?” Myles echoed incredulously. “Surely you jest. Luce, did you explain the potential for absolute, unmitigated disaster...”

“Several times. Why do you think I called for reinforcements? I was getting worn out.”

“Ah, I see. No doubt catching a Koala Boy by the toe was proving to be extremely taxing. Never fear, I am here to help. When will Tara get here? Surely she’ll be able to use her feminine wiles to persuade him around to our way of thinking.”

“Not you too. Can’t a bloke have some privacy?” Groaning Bobby flopped back on the couch.

Myles stared down his nose at him. “Did you really think your interest in our computer whiz went unnoticed? What kind of FBI employees would we be if the obvious was continually ignored?”

“Uh huh. And I suppose you got here so quickly this morning strictly because you were anxious to take part in whatever scheme our brilliant but devious rotor has cooked up?” Or are you going to claim to have been in the area mate?”

“Not at all. Any excuse to spend time with such lovely ladies is to be embraced wholeheartedly, which manifested itself in my prompt arrival. And since aiding the course of true love is the noble cause in question, as a renaissance man where else would I be?”

“Even when you made a bodgy job of managing your own love life? Words can’t begin to express how your offer of assistance as we work to unite Sparky and his sheila makes me feel.”

The shrug was a tamer response than Bobby had expected. “Nevertheless I offer myself as a humble assistant to our matchmaking queen in her no doubt inspired plan. Whatever you need Luce, I’m your man.”

“Hear that Luce? After close to three years Harvard says he’s still yours. You going to take him up on it sheila?”

Poor Lucy but I think they could try again but most of all I hope there plot gets Jack and Sue together cant wait to find out
Lin

So funny!

Tere

Wonderful dialogue!

I guess it's true what they say: All is fair in love and war and since they're all hoping to find a way to get Sparky to admit his love, the rest of them are fair game.

Lindsy

Three relationships bubbling up at the same time!!!!!!! Woo Hoooo
(Bobby, that was still a bonehead Idea)

Hee, hee. I can't wait until Jack gets wind of what is going on.

Poor Lucy. I hope Bobby realizes that his offhand remarks COULD cause trouble for more people than just himself and Sue! Somebody needs to put BOBBY on a leash. I guess we'll leave that to Tara . . .

I think they'll need it by the time Jack finds out what's going on . . .

Karen, I am really enjoying all the bantering, and insane ideas being tossed about by the team members...but I'm wondering where you have stashed Jack.

I don't think you have ever kept him from us for this long...


Anne

Oh this is wonderful!

You did have me worried at the very beginning but I kept thinking that maybe this was just some undercover assignment and that Jack was somewhere nearby squirming in his seat because his best friend was having some fun with him. But this is even better.

Can't wait to see what's coming next.

- RSL

QUOTE(Anne @ Mar 18 2010, 11:54 PM)

Karen, I am really enjoying all the bantering, and insane ideas being tossed about by the team members...but I'm wondering where you have stashed Jack.

I don't think you have ever kept him from us for this long...


Anne

Um, check again...


“Saved by the bell.” Bobby grinned as he watched Levi get Sue’s attention. The blonde ruffled his golden fur as she rose to let the newest arrival to their gathering in.

“Well I think the more appropriate phrase for you would be out of the frying pan and into the fire.” Myles winked at Lucy at the finish of his gleeful retort, flustering her even more as Tara entered the room with Sue.

Catching the surprise on Harvard’s face at the rotor’s uncharacteristic confusion Bobby smothered a grin. Apparently his jab had been spot on. Their mutual attraction had never completely faded. As long as his partner could refrain from being a drongo again, there was hope.

“Good morning everyone. What’s this I hear about our Aussie bushman creating explosive situations instead of diffusing them?”

“Aw luv, you know me. Never a dull moment.”

She stared at him, confusion written across her lovely face. In his peripheral vision he could see twin smirks appearing on Myles and Lucy. Wincing, he attempted to clear the huskiness from his throat. Could he help the way his breath caught at the sight of Tara in a formfitting salmon coloured t-shirt? Especially since the uncharacteristically low v-neck had him salivating.

“I think I’m missing something.”

Sue’s voice broke the spell on Tara. “Um... I think Bobby needs a drink. He sounds like he’s coming down with a cold or something... all raspy in the throat.”

“Why didn’t you say something? What will help most? Coffee? Tea? I think we have some green tea and honey. Lucy’s grandma swears by that for sore throats. Or maybe you prefer something cold? Juice? Water?”

“How about a cold shower?” Myles snickered. “Snap out of it Koala Boy. They say confession is good for the soul. Now’s your chance.”

“What does Bobby have to confess? I thought we were here to discuss how to get Sue and Jack together, and hopefully find a way to get around the pesky non-fraternization rule? Wait a minute... confession... what did you do? Have you muddied the waters between Jack and Sue even more?”

Lucy cast him a disparaging look. “He was about to. Luckily we got to him in time. But Myles is right. Bobby does have a confession to make to you before we can begin Operation BSTR.”

“BSTR?”

Her knowing look proved the attempt at diversion was not going to work. “Better Second Time Round.”

“Why not something catchier, like Operation Disco Ball?”

“Not a chance. Stop trying to change the subject Koala Boy. You have to tell Tara about the lead up to this little conference. Or would you prefer someone else do so?”

The triumphant smile Lucy gave him as she finished said it all. He was cornered, and she knew it. Hopefully he wasn’t about to come a guster. Sighing he stood, impulsively reaching out a hand to Tara.

“Fancy a walk luv?”

Now THAT holds all kinds of wonderful possibilities . . . but don't get us off-track, here! Remember, the objective is getting JACK and SUE together?

Aw but it never hurts to read a bit of Tara and Bobby romance to get us all nice and fuzzified until Jack and Sue decide to burn the house down.

Although, I agree, I think this story needs a little Jack in it.

Lindsy

But a walk with Bobby is not a bad way to spend the day.... not bad at all!

Yes Bobby take Tara for a walk and tell her why but try not to upset her when you do I think the others should come up with how to get Jack and Sue together for keeps without Bobbys brainwaves
Lin

to all of you ladies

Tere

Let's hear it for Operation BSTR.

???? Where??? I just checked and I can't find Jack

R U just funnin with me Karen or have I lost it completely???

I guess I'm missing Jack And I'm looking forward to the BSTR


Anne

PS If I did miss him in the story, I want post number and line.

QUOTE(Anne @ Mar 19 2010, 11:54 PM)

QUOTE

Um, check again...

???? Where??? I just checked and I can't find Jack

R U just funnin with me Karen or have I lost it completely???

I guess I'm missing Jack And I'm looking forward to the BSTR


Anne

PS If I did miss him in the story, I want post number and line.

I meant in other stories Anne. You're right Jack hasn't shown up in person during this one... yet.

Regina, I'm not off track, exactly...



“Bobby, is something wrong?”

Tearing his eyes away from the antics of the golden retriever, he focused on the petite computer whiz. “Nothing, luv. I’m just watching Levi enjoying the beautiful day as he chases squirrels.”

“You said... well Lucy said you wanted to talk. Something about a confession.”

It was the perfect opening. Did he have the courage to take it?

“See much of Stan the Man these days luv?”

“He’s in Los Angeles now. We... agreed it wasn’t going to work out. I mean, we’re still friends, but there’s no future in a relationship.”

“Good.” At her confused expression, he grinned sheepishly. “I’m sorry luv. I owe you an apology...”

“It’s fine Bobby, just not the reaction I was expecting.”

Waving off the interruption he continued. “...for being a drongo back the night of the Mojo Gogo concert. Well, actually the next day. There was nothing wrong with our date that night.”

“You considered that a date?”

Was it hope he heard in her voice? Pulse pounding, he dove in. “I did. Did you?”

“I... actually... yes.”

Heart soaring, he risked taking her hand, marveling at how small it looked in his. How right. “I’m glad. But the drongo part comes in when I backtracked the next day. You’d think I’d been taking lessons from Sparky.”

“What are you saying?”

“I turned chook. I was confused by my feelings for you, figuring I still owed Darcy something even though we’d broken up. So I... said what I said.”

“Do you mean you’re not in love with Darcy? That you’d... be interested in... going out again? With me?”

“Absolutely. We had a great time. I was wrong to hide behind other people, trying to avoid the feelings you stirred up in me. You’re a wonderful sheila; one I’d like to spend lots of time getting to know.”

“How... how much time?”

Framing her face with his hands, Bobby gazed at her beloved features. “A lifetime.”

Good on ya Bobby for opening up to Tara. I think she was really surprised.

That was very sweet. Now, WHERE exactly did you say JACK was?

(as if you didn't already know.)

Oh that was absolutely perfect.

Lindsy

ahhh, wonderful!

Well done Bobby...very sweet. A lifetime together sounds great

I'm enjoying Jack in your other story Karen...but I'm very greedy when it comes to Jack. Just can't get enough.


Anne

That was wonderful well done Bobby at lets hope
A new begining for you and Tara
Lin

QUOTE(GinaSue @ Mar 20 2010, 04:12 PM)

That was very sweet. Now, WHERE exactly did you say JACK was?

(as if you didn't already know.)

A little more groundwork first to deal with...


“You haven’t answered the question.”

“Quiet. I’m thinking.”

“Stop stalling, lady matchmaker. Sue has raised a valid question, deserving of an answer. I for one am intrigued by your avoidance of the subject.”

“Listen up renaissance man...”

“What did we miss?”

Tara’s cheerful inquiry received a rapid-fire response from the frazzled rotor. Normally diligent about keeping Sue in the loop, the analyst had no hope of deciphering the conversation. But from the looks of it she wasn’t even trying, though the amused smile gave every indication she already knew what was being said.

“Whatever you’ve done Harvard, it’s gotten quite the reaction. It’s been a while since I’ve seen Lucy this off-kilter. Did you decide to crack onto her?”

Rolling his eyes heavenward as if pleading for strength, Myles sighed. “In English?”

“Are you going after your sheila?”

“Are you?”

Stealing a glance at the woman now focused on her friend’s ramblings, his grin surfaced. “No need. I’ve already caught her.”

“What? You mean our otherwise brilliant resident technology genius is willing to give a drongo like you a shot?” His genuine smile belied the negative pronouncement.

Nodding Bobby felt his smile grow wider. “Never a doubt.” At the raised eyebrow he sobered. “No, that’s not true. I’m lucky she’d even look at me after my chook move.”

“Ah yes, the whole Darcy-moving-to-the-City-of-Angels-Mojo-Gogo-concert fiasco. Presumably Tara’s forgiven you for the uncharacteristic indecision you exhibited during that lamentable time period?”

“Aw, I didn’t know you cared enough about me to keep tabs on my love life mate.”

“I am a highly trained Special Agent of the FBI. With your unusual openness over a beer with the boys, then the awkwardness between you and Tara after the concert, it was clear you were torn by unacknowledged feelings for our team member while trying to convince yourself Ms. DeAngelo was your future. That somehow she would be enough. Fortunately you came to your admittedly limited senses. At the risk of repeating myself, has Tara forgiven you?”

Bobby thought back to the toe-curling kisses they’d shared in the shelter of a convenient stand of poplar trees. “Quite thoroughly. Now can you explain the bonzer blue going on in here?”

“You get too much pleasure out of annoying me with your Aussie-isms.”

“But you make it such fun mate. Alright, in words you can grasp. You’ve stirred up a pretty good row while Tara and I were having our heart to heart. Can I take it you decided to follow up on my little comment, but Luce is a bit harder to persuade?”

“Actually it’s Sue who chose to pursue your line of thought, saying her roommate needed a taste of her own medicine.”

“The sheila has a point. Luce has been more than a little vocal about her desire to see Sparky and Sue together.”

“Yes, well, we seem to have a classic case here of do as I say, not as I do. Sue’s counter-argument goes along the lines of what’s good for the intended subject of her efforts is also good for the matchmaker.”

“So who’s winning?”

Both men glanced over at what was now a three-way conversation, both oral and signed. “I think the jury is still out, don’t you Koala Boy?”

“I’d say so. Think you can do something to tip the balance in your favour?”

Squaring his shoulders, Myles flashed a confident smile. “Oh, I think so. Watch and learn.” Waving his hand he waded into the fray.

So now we've got MYLES going after Lucy. Lovely. But where on earth is JACK?

Why yes! Yes, I would!

That bantering between Myles and Bobby was priceless. You had me in stitches. I can't wait to see how this works out, especially when Jack finally does make his appearance.

BTW. Tara is preoccupied with this fray, but if she weren't I bet that she would let you know that the meaning of the expression to have one in stitches is: - "Excessive laughter. - 'That comedian had me in stitches.' - The Old English word "stitch" meaning to stick as with a knife. One characteristic stab like pain, caused by acute spasms of rib muscles, occurs after violent exercise. Prolonged laughter may lead to the same symptoms, thus the expression. " (I googled it)

Its great that Myles and Lucy are together again but WHERES JACK as we all just cant wait to find out Karen
Lin

Okay, Karen, Sweetie, Cutie, Honey Pie, I've been gone for a week and you still don't have Jack in this little tale of yours!! How is one to survive the withdrawal symptoms?? How is one to breathe?? How is one to swoon (although Bobby did a pretty good job of causing a melting effect)???

Joy

As much as I love all of the... well... love going on, there is still someone crucial missing from this little tale of yours.

Regina and I haven't officially joined forces, but we will if we have to.

Lindsy

I think this is in the nature of a "first warning?"

All this plotting against a certain someone and inquiring minds want to know where this certain someone actually is.

kav

QUOTE(GinaSue @ Mar 22 2010, 03:55 PM)

QUOTE(Linny27 @ Mar 22 2010, 02:43 PM)

As much as I love all of the... well... love going on, there is still someone crucial missing from this little tale of yours.

Regina and I haven't officially joined forces, but we will if we have to.

Lindsy

I think this is in the nature of a "first warning?"

I get it, I get it.


“Let me get this straight. You are arguing that if the entire team presents a unified front, it will be our best chance to sway the powers that be into keeping us together as a test case for abolishing the outdated non-fraternization rule?”

Lucy’s incredulous tone made Bobby grin. “Aw sheila, where’s your sense of adventure? If you were listening carefully to Harvard, you’ll know his primary motivation is to have a second chance with you. His last suggestion is icing on the cake.”

“You did ask him to help Lucy. And as much as Myles’ romantic side comes as a shock to me, I will be the first to admit it’s the best idea I’ve heard.”

Bobby shot Tara an approving look. “Well said luv. Though in the interests of full disclosure I’m willing to transfer teams in order to build a life with you.”

Her blush was adorable as she cast about for a reply. Lucy saved her the trouble.

“I admit the idea has merit. There’s a certain deviousness that appeals to me. Don’t let it go to your head Renaissance Man.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.”

“You know Myles is a changed man Luce. And in spite of your constant sparring since the breakup first time around, do you realize how many times you’ve gone to him for help, or vice versa?”

The rotor looked at her roommate as if she had two heads. “Name one.”

“Your grandmother’s house, the ding thing, helping with his neighbourhood association campaign, dental sedation secrets...”

“Alright, I get your point.” The thoughtful expression on her beautiful face had the entire room holding their collective breath. Finally a tentative smile blossomed.

“I didn’t realize how much I still depended on him. Perhaps it is time for a second chance... for both of us.”

Blue eyes sparkled as the Boston born agent clasped her hand eagerly. “I’ll do right by you this time Luce. I swear it.”

“Of course he will sheila. No more Special Agent Drongo. We’ll make sure of it.” Bobby patted his gun meaningfully, the action mimicked by Tara.

“No need for posturing. I’ve learned my lesson thanks to our team conscience. So we have two couples in. All we need is the final duo to agree.”

All eyes fixed on Sue as she nibbled her bottom lip, clearly nervous. “What if Jack isn’t interested?”

Snorts of disbelief echoed through the room as everyone sought to impress upon the analyst how ludicrous a thought this was. But surprisingly it was Myles who stepped forward, determination on his face.

“Sue, I apologize for my horrible timing yesterday. If I hadn’t walked into the hallway at that precise moment, I think you would know exactly how our esteemed team leader feels about you. I’m certain I interrupted a declaration of his undying love, along with a plea to go with you, or for you to stay. Either way, let me make it up to you now.”

A knock sounded at the door, startling everyone by Sue.

Bobby switched his gaze to Lucy. “I thought you didn’t want D here. You said he was too close to management.”

“It’s not D,” Myles interrupted before Lucy could respond. “I took the liberty of mentioning to Jack how we were gathering to celebrate Sue’s staying in an effort to convince her she made the right decision. But I believe the rest of us have urgent business out and about for the next few hours. That should give even Turtle Boy enough time. I hope.”

WOOHOOO!!! Thanks Myles!!... er... Karen!!
Jack is coming!

Tere

Well, at least he's in the vicinity . . .

You gotta love how all of their efforts to unite Jack and Sue turned out to have special benefits for them personally. Bless Myles for calling Jack. Jack's knock came at just the perfect time.

Well, there he is, the Little Dickens!! Thanks, Karen, for finding our little lost turtle!!!

Now, I'm hoping our turtle turns into a cheetah real soon!!!

Joy

Did somebody mention Jack??????

I Jack!

Just in case somebody forgot.

SEE? It's not just ME!

Sneaky Myles.... I like Sneaky Myles!!

And

How could you not Jack? I know I do.

Lindsy

Im with Joy there lets hope our little Does get his act together and becomes a Cheetah instead of or
Lin

Why yes, I do believe someone has mentioned Jack.


“Welcome to the strategy session Jackson.”

“Strategy session Luce? Myles said this has something to do with convincing Sue about staying. Are you telling me instead we have a new case? Why are we meeting here and not the bullpen?”

Chuckling at the bemused expression on the shorter man’s face from his position next to Sue, Bobby reached out to squeeze her arm in encouragement. The flash of blind panic before her mask settled into place tore at his heart. Bending lower he made certain to catch her eye before speaking.

“Keep your courage up darlin’ and remember what I said over brekkie.”

A slight smile eased the tenseness to her expression. “Which part?”

“All of it.” Receiving an encouraging nod from Tara as she moved to intercept their team leader, Bobby drew Sue back from the crowd, aware of his best friend’s eyes upon them. “Take confidence from the fact I’d dream of marrying you. Yes, I know my heart belongs to Tara. Thanks to your... clever maneuvers, so does she. But if I were still a betting man I’d wager everything I own that yon Sparky wants to do more than simply dream about marriage. He loves you.”

“It was easier to consider having this conversation with him when he wasn’t standing across the room being distracted by the rest of the team.”

Pretending to be affronted he crossed his arms, eyeing her sternly. “Do you mean to tell me the Aussie charms of your husband aren’t enough to keep your attention?”

Her quiet giggle caught Jack’s attention. Countenance glowering, he stalked over, dark eyes shooting daggers. Bobby smothered a grin. Talk about predictable.

“Telling jokes again Crash?”

Meeting the unspoken challenge head on he regarded his friend with raised eyebrows. “Not exactly. More like reminding our fair Sue about the conversation we enjoyed over breakfast.”

The stricken look flitting across his face had Bobby silently conceding the foolhardiness of his original plan. The team had been correct; misleading Jack about the erstwhile Mrs. Sue Manning would not have been a smart move.

“I didn’t realize the two of you had taken to sharing meals together.”

“While it’s always a pleasure to share some tucker with a beautiful sheila, this morning was my way of showing Sue how glad I am she’s staying.”

Relief shone in the dark eyes as he turned to Sue. “I’ll second that. And since I’m too late to offer breakfast, how about I take you out for lunch? Or... do you already have plans with yet another man?”

Could Sue see the vulnerability in her partner? It was clear as day to Bobby. But then as astute as she was at work, when it came to Jack all powers of perception seemed to fly out the window. Perhaps she was trying to protect her heart. Certainly her self esteem appeared to prevent her from believing she could be a good match for Jack. Maybe she feared her lack of experience with men...

He only half heard her quiet acceptance of the invitation. His mind had latched on to something important. Concentrating, he studied the guileless face before him. Sue had dated, but was obviously an innocent compared to any other woman Jack had escorted in his lifetime. Of the others Bobby had met, only Allie struck him as approaching Sue’s caliber of person. Not Rhonda, not Kristen, and especially not Jessica.

Frowning, Bobby watched the interaction between the two as they chatted over Levi. Jessica. That was when Sue started drawing away. The turncoat British agent had waltzed into their bullpen and attached herself to Jack based on a brief interlude in the distant past, dismissing Sue as both a woman and a professional. And for a time his friend had allowed it. It had taken Jonathan kidnapping the blonde analyst right out from under Jack’s nose for the drongo to get his head screwed on straight.

Obviously the sultry would-be seductress had left a lasting impression on Sue. Had she gone out with anyone since then, other than Jack in their role as undercover chaperones? Scowling, he realized she had not. At least... there hadn’t been any talk in the bullpen about dates. But since Lucy would never have missed the chance to batter Jack over the head with any information she had in that regard Bobby was confident in his assessment of Sue’s dating situation, or lack thereof.

It was his turn to glower as anger swept over him. Tapping his best mate on the shoulder, he tried to fix a placid expression on his face for Sue’s benefit.

“Sparky, may I have a word with you please?”

Go Bobby!!!!
Go Bobby!!!!

Yes Bobby talk to him and quickly then let him take Sue to lunch or even Dinner but put our Jack wise please
Lin

I think this could work much better. Go for it, Bobby!