A-Team
Slave Ring
(THUD) “Shit!” Listening to the familiar sound I watch Suzie hop on one foot glaring angrily at the cast iron doorstop by the door.
I stifle my laughter glancing up over the paper in hand with a familiar story by Amy my biggest interest at the moment. “Are you alright?” I hope the paper is suitably hiding my grin.
Susie glances up from her latest position on the navy blue carpet and sighs. “Oh yes of course! Just peachy, I love killing my self over your damn stupid dragon doorstop on a daily basis.” I raise a brow at her unbidden sarcasm; I detect resentment more so than usual.
“Miss him?” I question watching her lay flat on her face cursing me everything she can manage past her lips.
“No!” she grumbles both of us turning to the sharp knock on the front door.
I frown at the unfamiliar knock, I know for a fact Hannibal and the others won’t be in town for at least another six hours. Slowly I place aside my paper and stand walking cautiously toward the door. There are several dozens of possibilities pertaining to that knock, especially being a private detective associated with the A-team, (Which nobody knows except Amy and the guys.) I hesitantly glance out through the peep hole and groan turning to give my roommate and best friend a look.
“Ew.” She offers miserably attempting to climb to her feet and nearly stomping over to my side. “What does he want?” she glances through at the one and only Colonel Decker.
Both of us wince at the harsh knock again and exchange sidelong glances. “We could pretend we’re not home?” Susie suggests.
“He heard you swearing.” I mutter reluctantly unbolting the door and opening it enough to glare at Decker. “What do you want Decker?” I wince at my own cynical tone; we needed some humor in the house again.
“Where are they?” He growls icy eyes lowering to slits between Susie and myself. “I know they’re in the area, Ms. Allen kindly refused my…
“Badgering?” Susie pipes up with a hidden smile.
“They are not here Colonel Decker and if you don’t stop harassing us…” I pause narrowing my eyes in warning. “…I will have you knocked down to captain.” I hiss aiming to slam the door in his face and freezing when his hand come to rest on the door preventing me.
“Not likely Ms. Lindell…but I know they will be here eventually and I will have them.” With that he lowers his hand and I promptly slam the door in his face.
Susie goes about her continued spring cleaning leaving me to fume at the door; I swear everything I can think of including things that don’t exist. I know my threats are usually empty but that was the first time Decker called me on my bluff, I hate when that happens and do not like to loose. Snarling angrily I crush the newspaper in my hands and turn sharply to another thud, followed by a defined crash.
Susie again found the statue only this time she was carting boxes of things we had sorted for the homeless, frowning she glances up at me with her fingers irritably tapping the carpet. I smile apologetically before going over and helping her collect the things together again.
Several hours later our apartment is more than livable again and we’ve checked on all our tenants. We’ve done a fair share of collecting for the homeless drive and have successfully accomplished nothing for dinner, neither of us are entirely sure we care to eat because sleep sounds like a much more accommodating option.
Ring, Ring
“Amy!” Before I can get to the phone Susie literally dives over our tan sofa and flops in an awkward position to answer. “Hi Amy.” She chirps which in turns makes me give her a strange look.
“She misses Face; she can’t deny her attraction anymore.” I smirk at the finger she offers my direction; clearly she can read my expression. Shrugging I turn to see if I can come up with something decent for dinner and listen to her talk excitedly in the background. I find it strangely amusing that at one point Susie loathed Face, but now that I think about her choices in past men and her personality, they are strangely fitting.
I find myself wondering how Murdock is doing and can’t help but giggle at familiar past banters between him and B.A. “Hey!” I nearly drop the box of hamburger helper in my hand at Susie’s voice so close by my ear. “Guess what?” she grabs the box and tosses it back on the shelf before yanking me off back to the living room.
“I don’t feel like guessing and why did you do that. We need to eat sometime…
“Amy’s getting pizzas and coming over to meet the guys with us.” I stop giving her a curious look. “She said they will be getting in earlier than planned.” Before I can question her further she disappears back to her room and leaves me with my mouth moving strangely fish like.
I wonder briefly what she is thinking leaving me like that. Finally it registers that she has gone to get all fancy and left me without the option of the bathroom for the next two hours. “She is such a girl.” I shake my head amused that I became such good friends with my exact opposite, she the girl and myself the tomboy. Shrugging it off I go into my own room and leave her to her pampering. I slip on a comfortable blue flowing sleeved top and a pair of comfortable bellbottoms. I then run a brush through my hair and leave it loose turning to finish putting in my usual earrings.
Knock, Knock
I smile walking from my room and open the door to Amy who is holding three large sheet pizzas. “A bit much Amy?” I question watching her attempt a shrug before nearly dropping a pizza. “Got it!” I smile leading her into the house where we park the pizzas and wait.
“Where’s…
“Pampering for Face.” I smirk at the bathroom hearing Amy going into a fit of giggles. “I’ll be out as soon as I find my headband.” I mutter realizing my hair isn’t going to lie out of my eyes and turning back to my room.
Rummaging for ten minutes I finally find my headband and attempt to put it in before an image in my mirror causes me to shriek and drop it. Turning sharply I watch Murdock lazing about in the doorway, not even flinching at my reaction. Hannibal investigates with a familiar smug grin before waving and returning to the others. I level my gaze on Murdock watching him feign innocence before scolding Billy.
“H.M. Murdock!” I snap watching him jump startled by my harsh tone. “Don’t blame Billy, you did that on purpose.” Again he pretends innocence before an all too knowing grin crosses his face. “What are you up to?” I notice a mischief like twinkle in his dark gaze and watch him shrug placing his baseball cap down before walking casually out to the others.
I observe the doorway long enough to place my headband in my hair in a rushing fashion and run out. Everyone’s together eating dinner and listening to Hannibal and the others discuss their latest adventure, I can tell I’m missing something but ignore the urge to feel stupid and wait it out. I cringe when Susie brings up Colonel Decker’s recent misadventure into our happy days, B.A is on the warpath, Face and Hannibal watch while I note Murdock is nowhere to be seen again.
Instead of pondering the crazy ones disappearance I observe Amy watching the others intently and am very sure I’m overlooking the obvious. “I wouldn’t do that fool!” Hearing B.A.’s sudden rant stop I turn to see Murdock halted mid-step with an almost pout expression on his face. “Crazy fool.”
I smirk seeing Murdock lower his hands in defeat and watch me, he pretends to be agitated but I can see the amused look there. “Do what exactly B.A?” I question watching Murdock go into a comical denial before rushing around to find a seat on the couch.
“Listen up.” Instead of confronting Murdock I join the others making myself comfortable on the arm of the couch, Murdock watching every move I make. “We may have something you three can join us on again.” I watch the twinkle in Hannibal’s eyes and note Susie, Amy and the others groan.
“No plains Hannibal, I don’t fly.” I stifle my amused snicker in favor of my well being and watch the others.
Murdock and I seem to be the only ones actually looking forward to what Hannibal has to say. “This still has to be determined but…” Hannibal always likes the dramatics. (Has to have something to do with his career choice, I am sure.) “…We’re meeting a client later tonight at the pier festival, I need a volunteer to help us out which excludes Amy.” He pointedly glances at her about to protest. “Volunteer?”
“I don’t think you even want my answer.” Susie remarks sourly a recent incident with Guisman to fresh in her mind. “Why not miss willing to do anything because she’s more insane than the one certified?” I stick out my tongue at her amusement watching Susie allow Face’s arm around her shoulders.
“Who said I’m certified?” Murdock questions with a familiar grin.
I watch closely seeing Susie ignore his come back and snuggle against Face, I can’t help but smirk. “That isn’t such a bad idea.” Turning back to Hannibal I feel my stomach drop, sometimes he’s plans were fun but judging by that serious tone and the almost evil glint in his eyes, this isn’t something fun.
“No Jazz.” I mutter almost sourly sitting up on the sofa next to a rather startled looking Amy. “What is it this time?” I reluctantly ask worried that I was about to find out.
A couple of hours later all of us are piled in the familiar black van and riding toward the pier festival fair, the warm night sends a strange shiver across my shoulders and with that I know something is very wrong with this whole thing. Hannibal explained that Murdock and I were to be a couple enjoying the festivities and were to approach this supposed client with care, (naturally Hannibal has used his familiar make-up kit.) I can’t shake this incredible sinking feeling and meet Susie’s worried gaze, Face is trying to reassure her but even he doesn’t look convinced.
Finally it is common sense speaking and for once I am grateful to Susie. “Hannibal…remember the last trip? Things didn’t go so well planned. Your plan didn’t come together so smoothly.” I note Hannibal’s eyes shift to meet her stare and wonder what is going through his mind.
Lighting another cigar he purposely avoids an answer, eyes ahead waiting for the van to come to a halt. I can see Susie about to say more but shake my head, there is more to this than Hannibal is telling anyone. I can see Murdock is equally tense which means there was a reason Hannibal worked things this way.
I hear the engine stop and glance out into the world of tents, Ferris wheels, music, games and more. A playground of wonderment and unknown danger in the shadows, the last part making my stomach churn. I can see Murdock hesitate glancing over at Hannibal; he’s off in his own world but is aware of the pause.
“Be careful Captain.” Nodding Murdock exits the van offering
me a hand; I can see remaining scabs from our last trip and allow my eyes to
trail over the fine marks. “
It’s strange that Murdock is so jumpy, I know somewhere in those dark eyes he wants to tell me something but has been easily avoiding it. The scars on his wrists a prominent reminder of past events. Weaving our way through the parked cars and finally getting to the ticket booth both of us hesitate. The man in charge has let a few couples pass without acknowledging them, he appears amused in a fashion, one would suggest almost happy for the romance of the night.
I don’t like him, his hair is stiff and slick with grease, dark eyes beady and narrowed among the bright wonderland of lights and noise. I tense feeling Murdock gently try to tug me along, he halts noting my resistance. Eyes search mine for some sign of trouble and then he glances over at the ticket booth.
“What…
“I don’t like him.” I state cutting of his question before he can even answer. “He’s too happy to let far too many people pass; he’s handing out free passes to random couples. It’s off somehow.” Feeling his fingers slip from mine, he casually starts toward the ticket booth. “Murdock!” I hiss urgently.
I start after him but note him signal me to wait. I observe him casually approach the stand before appearing to speak with the man in charge, before long he signals me to approach and without considering those observing us, I practically run to his side. I don’t bother to ask watching Murdock hand over the tickets with a strangely disgruntled look and we’re in.
He keeps his hand locked with mine, keeping me close before moving off the well tread runway to a customer made path. He keeps going past several game booths, shops, and concessions before halting at a bench in the shadows near the merry-go-round. I watch the carousel horses’ move like ghosts of their representations, the shadows growing within the park and the lights becoming brighter due to the setting sun.
“I’m inclined to agree with you. Billy really didn’t like that guy.” I for just a brief moment could have sworn there was sanity there, before the invisible dog come into the conversation.
Sometimes I had to wonder just how much of Murdock’s insanity was a protection against his harsh realities from the war and how much of it was true insanity. It’s hard to admit that one is almost in love with a mad man. (Literal in Murdock’s case.)
“Murdock…” I consider asking him the question of his sanity, but decide against it. I like things as they are and without this strange part of him, he wouldn’t be him. “…what did you find out?” I clear my throat attempt to cover my momentary lapse of common sense.
Glancing around the area he easily slides the green contacts from his eyes and ditches the blonde wig. “I think this is a cover for labor.” Before I can question he whistles softly to Billy and again I find my hand with his, him naturally leading the way past more park.
I find myself standing awkwardly when Murdock disappears into the shadows and leaves me in the middle of a walkway of people. “Maybe he really is crazy.” I turn a few times lost and wondering where to go, before hearing a familiar voice somewhere ahead and scowling. “Colonel Decker.” I finally spot him intruding on couples, nearly scaring half the park goers and realize why Murdock disappeared. “I still think part of that insanity that makes him so adorable is a façade.” Before Decker can spot me I duck into a nook off to the side and bump into a very fleshy solid form.
“What…” A hand cups my mouth and I hear a familiar chuckle.
“He’s still out there.” Murdock murmurs before allowing me the freedom to speak again.
“So sick Billy on him, hopefully Billy will bite him in his ego.” I breath softly for once realize the tight space we are in and how close we are together.
“Can’t do that, someone might think Billy has rabies.” He remarks only half seriously; I can see his eyes scanning my expression for something. (I feel oddly amused at his inquisitive look.)
“Decker has rabies; someone should put him out of his misery…and ours.” I grumble aware of Decker getting closer and rambling incoherently about the A-Team.
We both draw into a silence waiting for Decker and the soldiers he has with him to clear out. Strangely enough my awareness has increased and I can see Murdock studying me strangely, eyes scanning me over almost warily. Not only is this new behavior oddly unnerving, I’m reminded of wounds on his wrists again. He jumps when I allow my fingers to trace the nearly forgotten wounds.
“This was still unnecessary Murdock.” I point out watching his hands immediately retract to his sides, eyes lowering almost like a kid being scolded. “What has gotten into you?” I question almost to myself, but allow it to slip none the less.
“I’m crazy remember.” Now that I know for a fact is a façade, he sounds far too sane even for his standards.
“Or so it would seem.” I add watching his head jerk and eyes dart to meet mine. “I have my suspicions but everyone is entitled to deal with things how they see fit. Even if it’s in a lovable crazy fashion.” I point out before wincing at the cracking of a branch. “That was graceful.” I glance down at the twig under foot, but can feel him still watching me.
“Billy.” I can’t help but look up at his scolding tone. “Be a good boy.” He remarks strangely softly, almost looking like he’s lost. “He’s talking too much.” He adds in answer to my questioning gaze.
I nod in understanding, granted it has taken some getting used to but really he’s pretty calm. Not as crazy as one would assume, I’m finding the mystery of Murdock much more complicated than I want it to be. “Shit, Hannibal might send some of the others looking.” Before this strange moment gets carried to where I might regret something I stick my head out of our hiding spot.
I see its all clear and this time grasp his hand leading us both out into the open. Before we can wander to far away from the gate I spot another couple slip under the radar. “Labor?” the idea remains in my mind and before the couple can get too far out of sight, I tug Murdock along the shadows, keeping them close in my sight.
Hesitating trying to consider something he’s surprised when I again tug him into an alcove of sorts, which happens to be much tighter than the previous. It forces an unnerving amount of closeness considering the strange awkward and tense moments from before.
“What are you doing?” he questions finally regaining some of his bearings. “We lost Billy by the way.” He remarks peering around at their feet in a sort of depressed fashion.
“I’ll take you back to find him in a minute Murdock…”I pause considering his sullen look and mentally kick myself, I have to wonder if my own sanity isn’t affected by him at times. “…he will stay right?”
Slowly his eyes lift to meet mine followed by a nod of confirmation, a whisper of a smile is there but before I can question him it’s gone. “Sanity? Insanity? Is there honestly a difference?” I wonder trying to remain focused on the mission, which was proving much harder than usual.
This time he tugs me into the open and starts down a path surrounded by loud games, and more crowds than previous parts. I keep up as best as I can cursing him for being so damn tall and skinny. Finally he veers off to some more or less abandoned tents and catches me before I fall on my face. I realize we’re in the section where the carnies linger after work. In the middle of the camp of the enemy so to speak, he spots the couple and again we’re off.
Finally they disappear into an old warehouse off to the side where equipment is stored during the off season. His finger is against my lips preventing me from questioning him, before he again leaves me slipping, (rather melting) into the shadows. At this point in time I’m starting to doubt my own sanity, especially when I consider how strange things have gotten since I stumbled across the A-Team and H.M. Murdock.
“You love him.”
“No I don’t”
“But you do.”
“Not!” I suddenly feel stupid yelling at myself in the middle of nowhere. “I’ve finally lost it.” I cringe making sure there is no one watching me make an idiot of myself.
(THUMP) “Did you hear that?” I jump whirling at Murdock’s inquisitive tone. “This way.” Before I can give him hell I find myself pulled off to the side of the building and toward a broken window.
Inside I see more than I care to, I can feel bile rise in my throat and withdraw to the side trying to shake the images. Maybe thirty people are within the building chained together and being driven like slaves, judging by the noise I do hear none of them speak English and one of them had been the young girl I saw snuck in with her companion. “It’s a secret labor ring.” I realize that probably half those people in there are illegal to begin with.
I take several deep breaths closing my eyes, before starting feeling my hair brushed from my face. “Breath slower.” Murdock whispers strangely close to my personal space and not bothering me in the least. “You sound like your hyper ventilating.” He remarks softly before I nod.
“Is that what you and Hannibal were hiding? That we’re trying to stop a slave ring?” He lowers his eyes briefly before muttering strange gibberish only he could manage.
“It’s worse.” I allow my eyes to linger across his face, for once I think the crazy man has fled leaving an unnervingly sane one in his wake. “They’re all female…
“Sex slave ring.” I state almost wincing at the images. “How?”
“We need to get Billy and report to Hannibal.” He remarks softly, before withdrawing from the closeness.
I feel suddenly cold and feel like sinking into the ground where I’m standing. “Murdock.” We are again moving, his hand gently locked with mine almost fearfully.
Hearing my tone I feel his hand tense and wonder what’s going through his mind. “Yeah?” he sounds almost afraid of my question.
“I know you don’t want to answer me…” I feel his hand drop from mine before he glances skyward attempting a familiar tactic I knew well. “…don’t even crazy man.” I warn noting his eyes snap to mine, this time they’re void of that familiar spark. “What is going on?”
“Billy.” He gleefully leans down to pet his invisible pet, carefully stroking the animal as if he was real.
I know he’s avoiding a real answer and despite my own doubts to my sanity I lean down gently stroking the invisible canine, my hand coming to rest with Murdock’s. “I know more than you allow, please stop…
“Do you really want an answer from a crazy man? I’m certified and committed for a reason.” He states almost reluctantly before rising to his feet and lowering a familiar baseball cap over his eyes.
I sigh, there are other ways of avoiding me and he just pointed out the easiest way. Before I can try another approach he catches my hand and is again leading the way to the exit. Back at the van Murdock and I reveal what we’ve learned and for once I’m truly afraid of Hannibal Smith.
I had never seen those blue eyes narrow or the anger reside there like I did then. “We can’t do this on our own and judging from what you’ve both gathered, they will be moving them within the next day or so.” I turn back to look on to the wonderland of lights, within the image of fun is a true dark tale yet to be told. “Get in.” I easily climb in settling myself beside Murdock who joins me minutes later.
A strange tension slowly encloses everyone, but the one between Murdock and me is much more complicated underneath the mission. He barely meets my gaze now and all the usual amusement he usually has seems gone, almost a ghost of what he once was capable of.
Back at the house I watch the guys all disappear down a familiar hidden stairwell, each of them going off to their own rooms. Susie has barely spoken two words to me since her long talk with Face, and Amy has left me to my own concerns.
I linger at the door hearing Susie’s muttered ‘goodnights’ and lean against the cool metal, my heart thundering in my ears and emotions going all bonkers. I couldn’t stop thinking over the park, Murdock and his odd tone. He was either giving me the riddle to our strange closeness or trying to push me away; for once I wished some of his invisible friends were real. (I might get answers then.)
I wince feeling my fist connect with the door sharply. “Ow.” I glare at the inanimate object before me; I then nearly stomp into my room and angrily brush through my tangled hair.
“You’re in love with him and letting him push you aside.”
“Am not.”
“Confront him, kiss him, do something stupid.”
“No!” I state pointedly again arguing with myself. “I’m not giving in.” reluctantly I place aside my hair brush and begin to fling off my top, but halt with it half up.
“You are too.”
“Not giving in.” I hear my own voice falter, whether it’s good to argue with one self or not, my other self has won. “I give in.” lowering my shirt back into place I turn to exit the apartment.
I make my way out into the hall and take the flight of stairs nearest to the apartment Susie and I share. “If she can work with Face, than I can work with the crazy one.” Careful not to wake any of the other tenants I halt outside Murdock’s apartment. I’m now worried that he’s asleep and I will be confronting him on horrible terms, I turn to leave before hearing sounds inside and pause.
I’m sure I can hear Murdock arguing with himself much like I had been; it’s also prominent that he’s discussing his argument with Billy.
Knock, Knock
I hear a startled sound and hear hesitant footsteps. “Go away.” I hear his reluctant tone and already guess the latter of my theory; he’s trying to push away from anything we can have at all.
“Not likely.” I state making my voice firm.
“I didn’t speak in riddles…I’m crazy.” I smile slightly at the almost annoyed tone, it was familiar with other arguments we had in the past.
I lean on the door and can hear him fidget on the other side. “That’s why I like you.” I’m surprised how soft it leaves my lips and close my eyes. “I do love him.” I hear a clicking sound and quickly step back when the door opens.
“That’s the problem.” Murdock remarks almost uncharacteristically whiney. “You can’t…you need normalcy.” He states firmly trying to avoid my gaze.
I linger there in the hall allowing his rant to finish, arms crossing and sigh almost restlessly. “Normal is overrated.” I add seeing his familiar expression of defeat and I half smile in triumph. “I can’t help whom I like Murdock, there is no off switch.” Waving in defeat he leaves the doorway and I take it as my invitation to continue this argument inside.
I watch him shift things out of his way, kicking aside pillows and things he has clearly been flinging about. “Chased off some gremlins.” He adds watching my gaze scan the room. “Nasty little pests….I think Billy may have eaten one.” Despite the situation I giggle at the imagery he provides.
I think I’m starting to get a handle on the truth within Murdock; I just make a mental note to keep it to myself. “Why do you care so much about this whole thing?” this is where I see him halt, almost wincing at my tone.
He shuffles about lifting a flannel shirt over his blue t-shirt and glances over my way briefly. “Because I can, because I have to, because…just because.” He remarks absently before flopping backwards over the back of the couch.
It’s hard to take him seriously with his long legs lingering over the back of the couch and watching me from his upside down position. “I wish you wouldn’t do that.” I remark seeing another of his many avoiding tricks.
“Do what?”
“Avoid an answer.” I point out watching him make a face.
“I’m not.”
“Are.”
“Not.”
“Are.”
“Not.”
“Are.”
“Not.”
“Not.”
“I watch them too.” He remarks opening one eye to give me a once over and again closing them.
“Yes I know, but Looney Tunes aside…why is this because a good reason?” I walk over flopping down beside him watching him glance up briefly before again closing his eyes and ignoring me.
“It’s good enough.” He remarks almost again throwing me off with his sane way of dealing with me. “I hear those gremlins again.” I sigh seeing my ‘sane’ theory again blown out of the water.
“No it isn’t H.M.” I see him again make a face, but he still refuses to meet my gaze or speak to me in a common fashion. (Normal would be too complicated for us.)
I watch him shift but he offers no more to the conversation. Deciding it’s late and my patience has finally given in to annoyance I turn glancing over him, the minute he offers a glance to me he jumps.
THUD
I smirk down seeing him flip off the couch and land on his stomach with a groan. “Graceful.” I add smugly.
He mimics me sarcastically before raising his head up and then flopping on his back in defeat. “You’re not winning.” He adds with his own smug look.
That does annoy me, one thing I hate is to admit defeat and he knows this. I sit there contemplating the dumbest move I could ever do; I would win, prove a point, and probably keep him silent and away from me for days. “Tough.” This one word gives me the strength and I flop down on my knees staring over him.
“I’ve already won.” I remark softly coming inches from his face and watch him open his eyes at my cocky tone.
I note his eyes widen considerably at my approach to breech our argument. I see his hands lock on the carpet trying to get some bearing and scramble free. Before he can manage this I lean in kissing him softly, before pulling back and standing.
I immediately leave the room, shutting the door behind me and make my way back to my own room. For once I feel drained in more ways than I care to list and fall into my soft bed without bothering to change or even attempt to grab at my night clothes.
I wake to the sounds of laughter and familiar noises, I then roll over promptly burying myself under my pillows. Susie’s making breakfast and the guys are awake. (Didn’t mean I was.) I continue to attempt to sleep before hearing my door opening and the sound of the others roaring to life, then there’s that blissful drone of almost silence again.
The skin on my neck prickles, I know someone stayed in the room and reluctantly I roll over. I’m very sure to see Susie there waiting for me to come around and grumble readying my pillow to fling at her, once my eyes focus I stop. I can’t believe what I’m looking at and have to stare for several more minutes.
“No, you’re not dreaming.” I lower my pillow to my lap and eye Murdock suspiciously.
I didn’t expect him to speak to me so soon, I didn’t expect the strangely calm tone of his voice, and I was waiting for the random ‘gremlin’ or whatever creature comment to come. “You’re losing it.” Deciding I liked that idea better I flopped back down on the bed and placed my pillow back over my head.
Arguing with myself aloud I could handle, wishful delusions, or confrontational ones I could not and would not handle. “Go away, too tired for my own issues to turn into hallucinations.” I grumble.
I stifle a yelp when my pillow is yanked easily from my grasp and sit up sharply coming face to face with Murdock. “Not that easy…” he considers a familiar random comment but instead swats at something on my nightstand. “…you have them too.”
“What?”
“Gremlins.” I internally groan, I admit to caring but it’s too earlier for Murdock and facing what I did last night. “Why?”
Closing my eyes I allow one to open seeing an uncanny serious look in his expression. “Because it was the only way to get the insane one to listen, without his gremlins running amuck and Billy being his only excuses. I think I figured you out, but I like you this way and don’t think I would want you to change.” With this I close my eyes and mutter about needing sleep and dealing with noise.
I’m unnerved by the sudden silence in the room, I could still hear the others but it appeared like Murdock had vanished. Almost afraid I had again faced off with my mind, I open my eyes and there he is watching me far too intently for the crazy man he claims to be.
“What?” I feel oddly defensive at the moment.
There’s a strange almost glimmer in his expression, I’m not entirely sure I like the look but it’s an improvement over brooding, sullen and irritated. “That isn’t nice Sally.” I quirk a brow waiting for a typical explanation to come forth. “Oh right…” pausing he smirks noting my puzzled look deepen. “Sally is the gremlin I thought Billy ate, she’s rather nice considering the others, their terribly mean.” He adds noting he was getting on my annoyed side that morning.
“Murdock!” I nearly groan trying to resist the urge to beat him with my pillows. “I don’t care right now, I just want to sleep.” I mutter rolling away and attempting to go back to sleep.
“Sally said you’re awfully grumpy in the morning.” I sigh realizing until we get around his weird way of doing things, sleep is a literal dream.
“How does Sally feel about death by pillow?” I warn softly before snuggling into the soft object that I plan to use as a weapon if necessary.
“She said that wouldn’t be very nice to do to someone like me, after all we have things to sort and she’s here to make sure I go through with them.” I can just picture him nodding arms crossed patiently waiting for me to face the music.
I finally give in, one thing I know is arguing is going to make me even moodier than I already am. “Fine.” crossly I roll to face him, surprisingly he’s not waiting with arms crossed like typical.
He’s casually leaning against my headboard studying his nails almost femininely, I get the feeling this has something to do with his latest nutty-ness. “Paint them instead of eyeing them.” I remark in surrender leaning back on my pillows and blowing my hair from my eyes.
Murdock leans sideways glancing down at me. “I don’t think there’s a color to suit me. I have a delicate complexion you know.” It’s far too early for me to focus, but oddly enough I have to laugh, it was something so typical for him to say.
“You are impossible.” I remark.
“You are stubborn, pushy, and never listen…not that I actually…” he pauses here realizing he’s leaning down closer to her than wise, much like her sneak attack from the other night. “…mind those traits, you just don’t fight fair.” I glance up realizing our close proximity and wonder what’s going through his mind. “I know you’re taking lessons from the gremlins, even Sally claims it’s true.” I flick the brim of his cap and roll my eyes.
“You can tell Sally I don’t need lessons.” I watch him consider this before he stops talking all together and studies me intently.
“I’m incline to agree on that.” I can feel my heart speeding up as he leans closer, somehow I see both sides of Murdock in that one minute and realize just maybe, my move wasn’t as stupid as I thought.
Knock, Knock
“WAKEY, WAKEY…NOT FINISHING THAT.” I grumble at Susie’s rather lousy timing and wish to crawl back into my bed.
“Eggs and bakey?” I swat Murdock’s hat again before attempting to function. “Hey, this hat is valuable, the gremlins tried to steal it. I have proof of their…
Instead of listening to another of his rants I ignore everything and cut him off with a soft kiss, to my pleasant surprise he returns the kiss fingers gently cupping my cheek drawing me into a deeper one.
CRASH
That ended the moment making both of us turn sharply to the sound. I sigh exiting my bed and walk into the bathroom carting my clothes with me. I noted Murdock watching me intently, apparently trying to solve the enigma of us both.
After a quick fight with the shower and brushing my hair, I slide into my blue hoodie and black jeans before exiting the bathroom. I nearly shriek seeing him standing beside the door staring at an invisible watch, I smack his arm for the sneak attack and start toward my door.
“
“Yes.” I murmur truthfully before taking his hand and leading the way to the living room.
I watch Face help Susie to her feet and shake my head, perhaps I need to make her my permanent doorstop instead of the dragon one. I hear Hannibal already discussing the plan to rescue the future slaves and wonder exactly what type of help he plans on getting.
Releasing Murdock’s hand I walk over grabbing some oatmeal and flop comfortably on the couch, he soon follows after attempting to place a spoon full of oatmeal on my nose. I fend him off with a warning of him wearing the whole thing.
“She’s alive…what did you do?” I watch Murdock arch a brow nearly choking on his food.
“You sent the crazy fool on her, probably drove her insane too.” B.A. muttered watching Susie stick out her tongue and feed Face a mouth full of oatmeal to stop his comment.
“
“I take it all back guys, the jazz is bad.” I murmur watching Susie smile smugly at my irritation.
Hannibal chuckles that insane know-it-all way of his before puffing away on a cigar and turning to the others. “We are sending in the police…after we free them.” He adds this time both Murdock and I did choke.
Coughing trying to clear his throat Murdock glances up at Hannibal. “Free them how Colonel?”
“Send in a fake.” This is where I come in, I immediately stand to put my dishes in the sink and attempt an exit to my room.
One, I know Susie will not volunteer, two Amy doesn’t have my training and three, Hannibal is on that jazz. I do not plan on being bait for some sex sting operation for them to take out and call in my cop friends to clean up the mess. Murdock clearly sees where this is going and eyes Hannibal like he’s lost his mind.
“ARE YOU NUTS.” I smile, Susie to the rescue and I remind
myself to thank her for that. “
“Advertise it Susie.” I turn quickly to retreat to my room; there is no way I need my red face to give off the truth of the matter. “No way Hannibal.” I remark before slamming the door behind me.
“Murdock doesn’t know and you love him.”
“So what?” I again find myself arguing with me.
“So…he trusted you, your turn.”
“Um…hell no.” I feel myself flush and know full well a streetlight can not compare to me at the moment.
I jump watching Susie come marching into the room with a curious expression on her face. Before I can ask she lifts a finger to her lips and hauls me over to the door. I listen intently hearing Murdock literally going off on Hannibal, not only is that unnatural, it is downright scary.
“What happened?” I note her gaze intent on me and feel my face turn color again. “Oh…OH! Did you two do something?”
“Like it’s any of your business.” I mutter feeling the heat in my face increase with Murdock’s rant outside my room.
“I know it wasn’t sex…too soon.” I smack her watching her flinch. “Ow, you kissed him.” Her finger barely misses me biting her finger off. “Violent much.” She adds startled when a pillow slams between her eyes.
“Don’t…that’s all I’m saying.” I warned noting her rub her now sore face and nod. “I will speak up when necessary…if it happens to even get that far, he’s quite adherent about keeping us apart.” I wince hearing my door open and slam with surprising force.
Susie sees Murdock is literally livid and flees the room, I casually walk over to my desk and lean on it waiting for him to let off steam. He looks remarkably like B.A. at the moment and oddly enough that unnerves me. Watching him pace his hands waving about in a strange fashion, while talking to his several friends invisible, visible, or whatever I can’t help but furrow my brow in concern. “He’s starting to sound like an actual sane man.” This thought brings me immediately out of my daze and in a daring fashion I whistle sharply to get his attention.
Jumping at the sudden noise he turned. “I didn’t hear any birds.” He murmured, I smiled slightly shaking my head.
“At least you didn’t hear any bells or sirens. Why are you freaking out and telling Hannibal off?” his eyes again widen considerably before he quickly dodges to the door and then halts.
I watch him reluctantly consider the door and finally turn toward me. “Don’t ask.” He mutters flopping face first into my bed, hat going ajar.
“Already did.” I hear a muffled comment not being able to make it out and flop beside him; gently I nudge at him failing miserably at getting his attention. “Murdock? Howl…
“Hey!” his head snaps up at my change of tone and usage of his first name, few people other than the guys knew that. “How did you know…
“Detective. Speak up and tell me what is going on.” I watch his gaze narrow at me suspiciously before he murmurs something softly to one of his many head friends. “Do I have to do something drastic?”
He smirks at my threat before meeting my gaze. “Like?” I watch him getting the sneaking suspicion Susie’s big mouth just got me into a mess. “Should I say…turn about is fair play?”
“Sometimes I doubt your insanity as well as my own sanity.” I grumble in surrender, that damn smile tells me he knows the full story. “Did the others catch on too?” I know my face is red; his grin isn’t helping me either.
“Know what?” He pretends to talk with who I assume is Alice with a smile each time he glances at me. “Just why are you so worried anyway?”
“Duh.” I murmur avoiding an answer knowing very well he’s edging me into one of his games. “I’m not doing this….what is the verdict with the Colonel?”
Murdock’s smile fades a dark expression appearing there, unnerving me at this point again. “You’re the only one with the know how…and I don’t like it.” He crosses his arms like a child, grumbling remarkably like a cartoon I know.
Knock, Knock
I watch my pillow go flying at the door and smack Hannibal
harmlessly in the chest. “Captain.” The sharp and quick greeting indicates Hannibal’s
annoyance and surprise at Murdock’s outburst over the situation. “
“Yeah I know.” I mutter surrendering seeing just a hint of smile grace his lips. “Murdock I need a word with you.” I stop Murdock from grudgingly getting to his feet and shake my head.
“Don’t bother him; most of it is my fault.” I see Hannibal’s brow rise and see he finally gets the problem.
“Right then. Plan and we’re off to save those women.” I nod watching Hannibal leave the room, the tension among them both resolved.
You didn’t have to do that.” I shrug ignoring him while I dig through my closet to the sections I would rather not see.
Susie’s taste and mine severely differ, but I know that now would be the best time to use the clothing she has there for me as an excuse. It did not mean I liked this idea at all. I walk into my bathroom wrinkling my nose when I turn to the full length mirror, the blue clashing considerably with what I would define as my own taste. The black dress was nice, but too short, too tight and showed too much in my humble opinion.
Knock, Knock
“Tell him before you dress like a hooker.”
“Yes.” I try to ignore that familiar arguing with myself thing.
“Do you know any languages?” Murdock’s muffled voice brings a smile to my face.
“French.”
“Tell him now street walker.”
I wish my sarcasm would stay out of my head along with my own voices. “No.” I whisper before pulling myself into the tube dress.
It fell just to my thighs a little more if I was very, very lucky and just covered my breasts. I realize in horror I can’t zip the number and need help. I feel my face heat uncontrollably at the idea of facing Murdock in this and then worse when I realize the others will see me in it.
I walk to the door and frown still feeling the heat in my cheeks. “Murdock I need help.” I mutter hearing the door open and turning hoping not to see his face, unfortunately the mirror gives away his amusement and then horror. “What?” I ask a little defensive.
Granted I wasn’t a toothpick like him, (I have curves after all.) “It’s not you.” Apparently he can read my hurt look. “It’s this…um…tube?”
“Susie.” I remark seeing his expression turn sour. “Yeah I know, she’s known me since we were kids and still thinks I like her style. I get an excuse to have one less hooker number in my closet this way.” I add watching him go from un-amused to giggles.
His giggles stop when he finally catches my drift. “You say I’m insane…you can’t go out in…in…that.” He adds finally showing more in his voice than he wanted and seeing just a hint of her smile.
“Do you really care or are you trying that whole I don’t thing again?” I note him pretend to ignore me looking for more ‘gremlins’. “Murdock!” he jumps at my sharp tone near his ear and turns sharply nose nearly colliding with mine.
“I’m…
“Stop. I do not care. Sane or not I…” I froze was I letting my inner voice actually win? “Yes.” “I love you.” I finally state ignoring that annoying ‘yes’.
His mouth froze in his retort, eyes again widening before his hand dropped to his side and expression fell into one that was unreadable for me.
“Guys!” I gave Amy a look but she disregarded it pointing to Hannibal.
Before I could question Murdock further he was halfway out the door and past Amy, I shrugged of f her questions following after. “I love you. All I get is a fish and him leaving.” I mentally kick myself for again being so stupid; he would never let me in, in that aspect.
Our ride was silent between him and me. Hannibal went over the plan a dozen times, before testing me with words to know how many French ones I was capable of. I pointedly gave him the finger after a smart ass grin and remark I would care not to repeat in French or English.
The fair came into view, the kingdom of magic with a hidden evil lighting our way to the true threat.
“Be careful you two.” Murdock nodded not even offering me
his familiar hand gesture and waited for me halfway down the runway. “
“Don’t ask.” I state firmly making sure he gets my warning.
I have to practically run after Murdock, (not fun in high heels) before coming to a sudden halt with him whirling to face me. I start to say something but his hand clamps over my mouth pointing out the idiot sleaze from the night before. He makes sure my red wig is in place and nods turning back to the entrance.
“She may interest you.” Murdock goes into a soft spiel about why I’m there and that he heard around from some others about how to get quick cash.
“Have her speak.” Sleaze is clearly suspicious and I pretend idiocy watching Murdock suspiciously, acting as unsure as possible.
“Parler.” (Speak.) I nod slowly.
“Parlez de que?” (Speak about what?) I question noting sleaze’s eyes lighten at this.
“Take her on through, the others will…” he pauses eyes roving over me making me even more conscious of my look I would rather not have. “…test the merchandise for future activity and reference.” I grab Murdock’s wrist pretending to be fearful and stopping him from smashing this guy in the face.
Once past the gate I can see an uncharacteristic dark look in his eyes, he’s furious. “H.M.” I whisper startled when we are both in a familiar hidden spot.
The small space between the concessions stinks of old food and fresh food alike. I start to question him again but instead meet his stare. In that stare is something new, he’s studying me almost like it’s the first time he met me. I start to wonder if I’m insane and then his lips are against mine, pressing firmly and deepening the kiss when his arms lock around my waist.
“Told ya so.”
“Shut up.”
The kiss is soft and teasing, drawing me closer arms slowly closing around his neck, before he pulls back a small smile on his face. “You win.” He adds before I tilt my head puzzled.
“Win what?”
“The crazy man.” He then leads us out taking the shortcut to the hostage situation.
I can see the others now sneaking at a different section to the warehouse. “What do I do…
“Tell the one checking you out that you’re a…” he stops noting my dirty looked aimed his way. “…it will make him think long enough for our ambush.
“Right.” I mutter nearly growling startled when he catches my cheek with a kiss and knocks on the door.
“Boss you had a pretty one, he was right.” I resist the urge to cringe allowing Murdock to explain my ‘virginity issue’ among other things, to my surprise I don’t turn red and feel relaxed. “The boss will want her first then. He likes the pretty first timers.” I wince wondering how many women went through that sort of torture.
I duck hearing gunfire and watch the others come into the warehouse. Amy, Susie and I herd the girls to freedom and all freeze at the sight of Decker.
I bolt back into the warehouse and see the guys have things nearly wrapped up. “Decker!” Hannibal’s head snaps up at my voice, before I can turn to help the others distract Decker a gun is at my neck.
“Seniority does speak English.” I hear a groan and watch stupid Sleaze fall forward limply.
“She also speaks clear, she doesn’t like you, gremlins, or…
“Decker.” I state grabbing his arm and yanking him after the retreating guys and kiss him before he charges off after them.
Amy, I, and Susie sort the issue with some of my cop friends, conveniently these bastards get locked away for a long time and Decker gets to stop harassing us for a while. It’s blissfully quiet when we get home. I have never been so tired in my life and immediately flop on my bed.
I decide until the guys show up I might drop in and visit Murdock. Dating a crazy man as he kindly puts it isn’t so bad and besides love conquers all.
“You love him.”
“No shit.”
“You want to do more than love him after that kiss.”
“Hell.” I bury my head in my pillows. (Murdock is rubbing off on me.)
The End.