tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51590690667281044182024-02-07T07:27:42.324-08:00The Derek Morgan ChroniclesA Criminal Mind Fan fiction. Derek Morgan and all other original characters are owned by CBS and the Producers of Criminal Minds! I own NOTHING! (All new characters are all mine, however---let's not get it twisted!)
This is simply the overactive imagination of a CM Super Fan!!! Enjoy!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-91345825608801311262016-04-05T22:29:00.000-07:002016-04-05T22:29:57.713-07:00Bring Them Home, Morgan Chapter 3<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters –
2pm<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Derek
had eleven hours to find his team. Still shaken from the video of a hysterical
bloody Garcia, he knew that he had to focus and call on all of his training and
push aside his personal feelings for her and the others. Cruz had made good on
his promise to begin his own official search and the bullpen was now filled
with FBI agents from various other departments throughout the bureau. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Frustrated,
he was still waiting on a technical analysis and although he was able to do
simple searches his skill set was not adequate for what he needed. Just as he
was about to go down to Technical Support and snatch his own tech he noticed an
older woman enter the office. She reminded him of his grandmother; surely she
was lost, he thought. He continued to watch her as she approached one of the
agents and saw him look up and point in his direction. He watched as she
proceeded slowly up the stairs toward the conference room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Can
I help you?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Agent
Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
Mabel Henry from Tech Support.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan’s
jaw dropped and it was no way he could hide his shock as he looked her up and
down in silence. She was dressed in a bright orange skirt with red and white
giant flowers; her blouse was white with black polka dots and a baby blue
cardigan. Her used-to-be-a-dyed-blonde hair was graying and haphazardly pinned
in a bun on top of her head.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
get that a lot.” She chuckled as she returned his unbelieving stare, pushing up
her neon green cat-eyed glasses.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I-I…um
I’m sorry…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No
worries. Where do you want me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Huh?”
Derek shook his head trying to remember why she was there. “Oh…right here.”
Pointing to the office next to the conference room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Mable
followed him to Garcia’s lair and opened the door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“This
is our tech’s lair. Please be careful she’s pretty particular about her
things…her babies as she calls them.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Aren’t
we all?” She quipped back.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
woman looked even older up close sitting her bag on the floor she took a seat
in front of the bank of computer screens and made herself comfortable flipping
switches and watching the screens spring to life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
For
a minute it was as if Garcia’s future self had found a way to defy time’s
continuum and stepped backwards into the present time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“From
what Unit Chief Cruz told me you’re in a bit of a time crunch.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
saw the mix of anger, stress and sadness in his eyes even though he thought he
had done a pretty good job of hiding it behind his tough guy exterior.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“My
entire team has been kidnapped and I have less than eleven hours to find them
or they die.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Okay.
Let’s get to work. Give me the details.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We
all left the office around noon for lunch. They went to Pelley’s about a mile
and a half from here and I decided to work out instead of going with them.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Mabel
turned and looked him over with a discerning eye. She liked what she saw.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“An
hour later I received a call from the son-of-a-bitch who took them.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
they’ve got to be close.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yeah,
right.” He responded surprised. “He’s close but I’m not sure if I’ll be able to
find them in time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Giving
up already, Handsome?” She said looking over her shoulder at him as her fingers
continued to type.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No
I’ll never give up.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Good
then get out of here and let me get to work.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yes,
ma’am!” He responded in surprise. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
watched in awe he hadn’t seen anyone handle multiple computers and screens like
that before except…he closed his eyes for a moment to block her out of his
mind. He had to remain focused there was too much at stake.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Unknown Location - <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
door creaked and opened with a rush; the limp body of Penelope Garcia fell with
a thud to the floor. Before any of them could utter a word the door slammed
shut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With their hands and feet still
bound there was nothing they could do for her but watch and wait for some sign
of movement from their friend. Blood smeared her neck and blouse and no one
wanted to even guess what had happened while she was gone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Penelope!”
JJ yelled at her friend frantically.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
and Rossi looked on horrified knowing she was the least prepared for a
situation like this and becoming a victim of such harshness and cruelty would
scare her beyond the physical.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Garcia!”
Reid called out voice quivering.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
began to stir and move against the pain but she was alive and for that they all
were grateful. Her hands and feet were not bound so that was also another thing
to be grateful for. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
okay…I’m okay…” She whispered to them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Slowly
she pulled herself to an upright position in the middle of the room then
touching lightly the haphazard gauze that had been wrapped around her neck. It
was painful to the touch but she knew it could have been a lot worse. It wasn’t
meant to cause serious or life threatening harm. It was purely for affect, to
get Morgan’s attention which no doubt had achieved its purpose. As much as it
had scared her she got a small sense of satisfaction knowing that Derek would
kill the evil bastard when he got his hands on him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Garcia!
Untie us!” Hotch ordered taking charge and seeing an opportunity.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Garcia
as quickly as she could, crawled over to the others and began untying them
starting with Hotch who in turn untied Rossi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Garcia moved over to JJ while Rossi untied Alex and Hotch finally untied
Reid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once free they all rubbed their
wrist and began plotting their next move.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Now
what?” Garcia seemed to speak out loud what the others were thinking.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Good
question, Garcia. We’ve got to figure a way out of here.” Hotch answered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
can you tell us? What happened?” Ross asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
forced me to make a video for Derek. He wanted me to tell him that he was going
to kill us if he didn’t find us in time. Then he cut my neck to show Derek he
was serious.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Pen,
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>are you okay?” JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“It
hurts like hell but I’ll be fine.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Derek’s
gonna kill that son-of-a-bitch!” Reid mumbled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Just
then the door opened again and Kirkwood and his two armed goons stepped
confidently through the door. He examined the group and smirked so sure he was
going to get away with his plan. The two men behind him had a similar smirk of
overconfidence.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
I see you’ve all made yourselves comfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Well, it’s time for us to have some more fun!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
motioned to the man on the left behind him and he obediently moved toward Reid
and yanked him to his feet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Let’s
go!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU – <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
With
the help of Mabel Derek had narrowed his search area to a five-mile radius. He
and Cruz stood in front of a large map looking at all of the possible locations
that would give Kirkwood the ability to hide six people without drawing
attention. Even in the relatively small area there were too many places and too
little time to check them all. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
can start sending teams out to these locations…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No!
If they stumble on the right location, you can guarantee he will be watching.
If he sees anybody but me, he’s going to start killing them and I can’t risk
that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Come
on, Morgan you can’t check all these by yourself!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yeah,
I know… we’ve got to narrow the list and we can’t afford to be wrong.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Cruz
ran his hand over his head and began pacing. Taking over Strauss’ old job didn’t
look so attractive to him now. The BAU was indeed a rare special unit with
nerves of steel and watching Morgan work to find his team he knew he was not
capable of doing what they did.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
what are you going to do?” Cruz asked in frustration.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Derek’s
phone rang just before he could answer Cruz’s question. Another video had been
sent to him by Kirkwood. He braced himself for the sight of another one of his
team abused and bloody flaunted in his face by a man he wanted desperately to
kill.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Reid,
like Garcia had been forced to make a recording and to read a prepared script
to further taunt Morgan. Unlike Garcia however, Reid paid close attention to
everything around him as he was led to the room set up like a miniature studio
equipped with expensive equipment that the average Joe would not have a clue
even existed. He had to get a message of his own to Morgan and he hoped that
his friend would understand and it would help him find them before it was too
late.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
sat on the edge of the conference table and pushed play. He watched as Reid was
pushed down into a chair and handed a piece of lined notepaper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He squinted against the bright lights and
began reading silently at first.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Read,
Genius!” barked Kirkwood’s voice out of view.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Reid
turned to his left as if he were looking at someone and then turned back toward
the camera.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Okay!
I don’t understand what shooting an expensive movie is going to accomplish;
this isn’t Hollywood!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Kirkwood’s
fist suddenly appeared in view landing hard against the side of Reid’s head.
Reid tried but couldn’t hold in the cry of pain.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Read
the damn script!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Okay,
okay!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Reid
glanced up at the lights before taking a deep breath and beginning.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Time is running out… eight and a half hours
from now and we will be dead if you don’t find us. No police, no FBI…come
alone… your life for ours…”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Kirkwood
stepped into view placing a gun to Reid’s head. Reid flinched then stiffened as
the barrel pressed roughly against his temple. He closed his eyes praying that
he’d gotten his message across and that they would be found soon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“Eight
and half hours, agent! If you don’t make it in time just know that I’m going to
have so much fun with your friends making them suffer! They’ll all be screaming
and calling your name wondering where you are and asking why you didn’t save
them!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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The
screen went black as the video came to an end. Cruz watched the torment and
pain cross Morgan’s face.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“What
are you going to do?” He asked again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
slowly looked up at the Section Chief and in a steady confident voice he
answered him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
going to call for back up.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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He
was more confused than ever. Cruz had given up on understanding anything and
so, he stood watching the wheels turning in the agent’s head and after several
seconds he left the room.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Morgan
got up and moved to close the door. He couldn’t risk being overheard. He dialed
a number that he hadn’t dialed in quite a while; he only hoped he’d get a warm
reception without a lecture of how terrible he was at keeping in contact with
friends. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The
phone was answered on the third ring and he sighed at hearing her voice on the
other end. No one, not even Garcia had known that he had kept in contact and
knew where she was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After her sudden
departure her name was very rarely if ever brought up as if she had never been
a part of the team. The two of them had become close and Morgan wasn’t one to
forget about the few people whom he had let in. So, from time to time he would
call to check on her and she him. It was their secret and he kept his word to
keep her whereabouts to himself.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“It’s
been a while, stranger.” She said cheerfully.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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“Elle,
I need you…”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-31601292833332351602016-01-26T19:50:00.000-08:002016-01-26T19:50:43.156-08:00Bring Them Home Chapter 2<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<a href="" name="OLE_LINK6"></a><a href="" name="OLE_LINK5"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">BAU
Section Chief Mateo Cruz had joined Morgan at the conference room round table.
Derek quickly filled him in with what little he knew. He was running out of
patience he knew what needed to be done and wasting time with Cruz was not
going to bring his family home. He was going to have to go toe to toe with a
sadistic killer who enjoyed watching his victims suffer slowly before brutally
killing them.<o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Don’t even
try to tell me I’m not working this case!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Cruz hadn’t
been around long but he knew enough not to try and reason with SSA Derek Morgan
when his mind was made up. He couldn’t blame him his entire team had been
kidnapped as an act of revenge against him. It was personal and even before
he’d taken over as Section Chief he’d heard about the relentless fearless agent
who was willing to bend and in this case break the rules to bring down an
UnSub.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“The FBI
will be conducting their own investigation and we can’t have agents going off
on their own…”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Cruz, this
is my team! My family! I’m going to do whatever it takes to bring them home! If
it means I have to turn in my badge to do it then so beit!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Cruz looked
at Morgan standing unblinking in his face. Under any other circumstances he
would demand the agent stand down. He’d also remind him that he was still his
superior and still in command of the BAU, but now was not the time.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“What do
you need?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Morgan
stepped away and took a seat and rubbed his hands over his face.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“First
place I went when I got that call was to Garcia’s office…I need somebody on those
computers helping me find my team. “<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“I’ll see
what I can do.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Unknown Location - <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Hotch and
the rest of the team had finally managed to sit up bracing themselves against
the walls of the small room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their heads
had cleared from whatever drug they had been given. Their eyes had also
adjusted to the dimly lit room. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Anyone
want to guess why we’re here?’’ JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“And where
are we?” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Where’s
Morgan?” Garcia asked, voice trembling.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Hopefully,
looking for us.” Hotch answered.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Their
conversation was halted by the creaking sound of the door as it slowly
opened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three men stepped in staring
down at the agents. One of the men dressed in an expensive suit with matching
Italian leather shoes, was obviously in charge. The other two men were
well-built men who stood close behind the leader waiting obediently for orders.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“I’m glad
you all have managed to make yourselves comfortable.” He glanced at his cohorts
and the three chuckled.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“What do
you want?” Hotch asked in an even authoritative voice.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Aaron
Hotchner, I presume. I’m Andrew Kirkwood.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Is that
supposed to mean something to me?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“It will.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Kirkwood
shifted his attention to Garcia moving and standing in front of her. He loved
the fear in her eyes it made him giddy and excited.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“I’m an old
friend of Agent Morgan’s.” He continued.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Where is
he?” Rossi asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Unfortunately
he wasn’t able to join us. Apparently he decided at the last minute not to join
you all for lunch. But no worries he’ll be joining us soon.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“What do you
mean?” JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“It means
that he is pretty pissed off that I planned this little reunion and he’s
missing all of the fun.” He smiled amused at himself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Stop
playing games, Kirkwood! What’s going on?” Hotch barked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Hotch was
caught off guard by the hard kick to his ribs from one of Kirkwood’s goons,
which blindsided him. He doubled over in pain while the others sat quietly and
shocked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Kirkwood
motioned to his men as he kept his eyes on Garcia.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“I hear
you’re quite the actor.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Garcia
trembling sat silent staring at the madman above her.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Today is
your big debut. The biggest role of your mediocre career.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">At the snap
of his fingers the two goons moved quickly and grabbed Garcia by her arms and
began dragging her toward the door.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“NO! She
screamed not meaning to but she couldn’t stop her sound of panic and fear.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Where are
you taking her?” Yelled JJ.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“Leave her
alone!” Aaron moaned still doubling in pain.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Andrew
Kirkwood took a moment to look triumphantly down at his captives then turned on
his heels and left with a screaming hysterical Penelope Garcia in tow.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – Later…<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">He didn’t
think it was possible for a human being to go without breathing this long. He
couldn’t remember taking a breath; he’d watched the video three times now and
still he hadn’t inhaled…or exhaled for that matter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Hey…hey…Derek”<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">She was
crying uncontrollably mascara streaking down her face, clothes wrinkled and
disheveled. He couldn’t comprehend, didn’t understand, only thoughts of killing
Andrew Kirkwood consumed him…and was that blood on her face, bruises under her
eye?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Derek…I’m scared…he’s going to kill
us…if-if you don’t come…”<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">She looked
to her left up into her captors face.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Please don’t make me do this!” </i>She
pleaded.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Do it!” </i>He barked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">She
swallowed hard trying to compose herself, trying to be strong but it was too
late she had already shown that she was terrified.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Then Derek
watched helpless as Andrew Kirkwood came into view standing behind Penelope
towering over her seated body. He leaned into the line of sight placing his
face close to hers. Then he grabbed her and jerked her head back. Smiling into
the camera and then back at Garcia. Morgan saw the knife in his hand; saw it as
Kirkwood pressed it to her neck.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I could kill her right now…I’d love to kill
her right now…I know you’re still watching, agent!”<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">He pressed
the knife harder on her neck and a small spots of blood beaded onto her pale
white skin.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“How’s it feel to know that I can do
anything I want to her and there’s nothing you can do about it?”<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Morgan’s
heart beat madly in his chest and squeezed the phone in his hand like he wanted
to squeeze the life out of Kirkwood.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Derek!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Please…Derek…I’m so sorry!” <o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">The cackle
of his high-pitched laugh sent Morgan to another place. He had never felt so
much rage in his life. She was his life, his love…his everything and he hadn’t
had a chance to convince her…to make her understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If Kirkwood wanted to punish him and make him
pay than he had found the way.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“You have twelve hours, agent! Twelve hours
to find me…face me…man to man! I want you dead! So…if you want to save your
friends then come and find us! Your life for theirs!”<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">He laughed
again as he leaned down and licked the dripping blood from her neck. Derek
cringed watching, dying inside to see her being terrorized by this lunatic.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">Kirkwood
pressed the knife against her neck again drawing more blood, lots of blood and
screams…gut wrenching screams just before the video went black.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;">“PENELOPE!!!!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-51152039412568361262016-01-26T19:41:00.000-08:002016-01-26T19:41:36.311-08:00CRIMINAL MINDS FANVENTION COMES TO SAN DIEGO!<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXGW69Cg7kae-wDeDT2NR4XPSN8IqQUjltDT07OhgXQHgbyNC7H5LmiYaU7GVwqdXNvsVl4aza_azeyAO0I0joqJsJiNwQRL_WSRfZOrHkt3PxCtDO0JhGBrTuCKLd6peAQO0qLhGUxbc/s1600/Criminal+Mind+Logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXGW69Cg7kae-wDeDT2NR4XPSN8IqQUjltDT07OhgXQHgbyNC7H5LmiYaU7GVwqdXNvsVl4aza_azeyAO0I0joqJsJiNwQRL_WSRfZOrHkt3PxCtDO0JhGBrTuCKLd6peAQO0qLhGUxbc/s320/Criminal+Mind+Logo.png" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpAkjdGrjgRoi33E4SCPTqs4V9-9QTCBqMPSDagpvl_d62o0JoM9oJ2aBXlzCiTGHlB5SDSqCIC1ps7S6skaujnlH1JcSzVDbH_N4tiq-SPa-c69P9sQsg7EUxDZMngzCFsT2pfQTqqQrP/s1600/Event+image+San+Diego+Convention+Center.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpAkjdGrjgRoi33E4SCPTqs4V9-9QTCBqMPSDagpvl_d62o0JoM9oJ2aBXlzCiTGHlB5SDSqCIC1ps7S6skaujnlH1JcSzVDbH_N4tiq-SPa-c69P9sQsg7EUxDZMngzCFsT2pfQTqqQrP/s320/Event+image+San+Diego+Convention+Center.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thederekmorganchronicles.com/" target="_blank">THE DEREK MORGAN CHRONICLES</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
PRESENTS</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
THE CRIMINAL MINDS FANVENTION</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SATURDAY MAY 14, 2016</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
12-5PM</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(HOME OF COMIC CON!)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
COME & ENJOY A DAY OF ALL THINGS CRIMINAL MINDS!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
FOOD</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
CAST LOOK-ALIKE CONTESTS</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
MUSIC</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SPECIAL GIFTS FOR ALL IN ATTENDANCE</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
RED CARPET</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SPECIAL CELEBRITY GUESTS</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
& MUCH MORE!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
ARTIST RACHEL DINSMORE</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
ART AUCTION TO BENEFIT</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
THE FIGHT AGAINST MS & AUTISM!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-derek-morgan-chronicles-presents-the-criminal-minds-fanvention-tickets-19748099096" target="_blank">TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW!</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
THIS IS A PERSISTENT FLY PRODUCTION</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTrb10JWu0D3aoRmsm1-G21fWNCZZV4Q1gaAYgQr4Nb4Y8sQ3b3zqoGbspYCKDqD6njR8xYUHmZOyzSjO9J53HN0wYKuRGAqERxxftIPZEr6saVyIhmyxS_vWGuBEhgo4oTdXFtXr6FYO/s1600/Persistent+Fly+Logo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTrb10JWu0D3aoRmsm1-G21fWNCZZV4Q1gaAYgQr4Nb4Y8sQ3b3zqoGbspYCKDqD6njR8xYUHmZOyzSjO9J53HN0wYKuRGAqERxxftIPZEr6saVyIhmyxS_vWGuBEhgo4oTdXFtXr6FYO/s320/Persistent+Fly+Logo.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.persistentfly.com/" target="_blank">More Information on Persistent Fly Productions</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-46182384730282494252016-01-07T18:17:00.000-08:002016-01-07T18:17:05.508-08:00Bring Them Home, Morgan Chapter 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Vgqz0HAzwkfS8Km0rXCKjcOeiJw6dQtYD2OlXxHDgvwbsZINN5BO5olZJpNSGM07gpkTsSb6nYRiuU0L2DERZ8lyqdLoDfW5v6UXSQuDz3TlURUKxgX1mkhcmR0sDUFh60OOcPVB8ZQ4/s1600/Derek+upset+blk+white.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Vgqz0HAzwkfS8Km0rXCKjcOeiJw6dQtYD2OlXxHDgvwbsZINN5BO5olZJpNSGM07gpkTsSb6nYRiuU0L2DERZ8lyqdLoDfW5v6UXSQuDz3TlURUKxgX1mkhcmR0sDUFh60OOcPVB8ZQ4/s320/Derek+upset+blk+white.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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“Hotch!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Morgan
ran through the empty bullpen and raced up the stairs taking the steps two at a
time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“Hotch!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
Unit Chief’s office was empty. Puzzled he turned making a 360 as he surveyed
the entire area. Not a soul was there. It was like the world had ended while he
was out to lunch.<o:p></o:p></div>
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His
phone rang and he yanked it from his belt and answered it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Where
are they, you son-of-a-bitch?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Now
you will learn how it feels to lose everything that’s important to you!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“This
is between you and me! Let them go! You want to take somebody, then take me!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“That
would be too easy and not nearly as much fun.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Morgan
stood on the catwalk in the middle of his worse nightmare. His team had
vanished into thin air, taken by a maniac out for revenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had been so long ago and way before his
life had even begun with the BAU. He had to do something, anything to get them
back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The voice on the other end of the
phone sent shivers up his spine. He knew far too well what he was capable of.
Morgan had done battle with him nearly losing his life. He had seen his
handiwork, the damage, and the joy he received from making others suffer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“If
you hurt any of them I’ll kill you! That’s a promise!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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All
he heard was a sick cackle of a laugh and then the dull moan of his phone as
the line went dead.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He
began dialing cell numbers; one by one each call went to voicemail. He left
hers for last. He was frozen in place. His hand held shaking hovering over the numbers
not knowing what he would do if she did not answer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just
as he began dialing Garcia’s number his phone rang. It was her face flashing
across his phone and his entire body fought for control of his emotions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Baby
Girl!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“So
she is the special one!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Let
her go!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Don’t
tell me that the eternal bachelor Derek Morgan has fallen in love?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“If
you touch her…”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“Please
don’t start making idle threats, agent!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“What
do you want, Kirkwood!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“I
want you! I want you to see how it feels to watch your family die!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“You
sick…”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Yeah,
yeah I know…I’m a sick son-of-a-bitch!!! I see your vocabulary hasn’t grown
much over the years!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Your
beef is with me not them! Let’s settle this, man to man!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“That
sounds good and all but…I much rather play with your friends. Remember how I
like to play, agent?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Don’t
do this!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Maybe
I’ll even let you watch me carve the heart out of your pretty little tech geek!
Would you like that, Derek?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Derek
closed his eyes trying not to show emotion in his voice. The thought of
Penelope in the hands of this maniacal killer was too much for him to handle.
He had to get them back, alive and in one piece but he didn’t know how or even
where to start.<o:p></o:p></div>
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15
years ago Antoine Kirkwood had haunted the city of Chicago for two years before
he was stopped. He was responsible for the deaths of twenty-four women,
kidnapping, torturing and killing them and then dumping their bodies in public
areas staging them in sitting positions with their arms crossed holding their
own hearts in their hands that had been cut out of their bodies while they were
still alive. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Morgan
had been the lead detective on the case and he had always known that Kirkwood
had a partner but he’d managed to disappear into thin air and was never found. Kirkwood
had been killed in a bloody shoot out with Derek placing a bullet in his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Several months after Kirkwood’s death he
began receiving threats from Kirkwood’s twin brother, Andrew. After six months,
the threats stopped and Morgan moved on dismissing it as nothing more than the
idle rumblings of a distraught sibling. Now, Morgan understood that the silence
was merely Kirkwood taking the time to plan and prepare for his revenge.
Shortly after the case, Morgan moved onto the FBI and away from his life with
the Chicago PD.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Unknown Location –<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The
room was dark and damp and smelled of old musty clothes. Hotch was the first to
open his eyes and fight through his hazy vision and the darkness of the room.
He was laying face down on the floor and it was hard to move; he quickly
realized that his hands and feet were bound tightly behind his back. Fighting
against the bindings that rubbed roughly against his skin he realized that he
wasn’t alone in the room. The rustling and moans nearby stopped him, looking
and squinting through the darkness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Hotch?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ’s voice was slurred.<o:p></o:p></div>
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She
too was bound and lying face down. Reid was next to her still unconscious. Alex
and Rossi began stirring and struggling to sit up which was futile.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Where
the hell are we?” Rossi groaned.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Is
everybody okay?” Hotch asked looking around the room the best he could.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“What’s
going on?” Garcia’s voice was shaky filled with fear.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Reid?
Reid!” Alex felt panicked when Reid didn’t move.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hotch
began rocking his body from side to side trying to gain some sort of leverage
to be able to sit up. Finally, Reid began to stir and Alex let out a sigh of
relief.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The
entire team was there except Morgan. They had all gone to lunch together; all
except Morgan who’d decided to workout instead. Hotch could only hope that he
had not been captured if he hadn’t he could be their only hope of making it out
alive.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Where
are we?” Reid asked groggily.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The
sound of a creaky door broke up the conversation. The sound of heavy footsteps
entering the room grabbed their attention as they waited for some clue as to
their current predicament.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Welcome!
I’m sorry that your accommodations couldn’t be better but I assure you that
that will change very soon. In the meantime, I have but one question, who wants
to die today?”<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-36495172158392887102015-10-19T08:00:00.000-07:002015-10-19T08:00:00.045-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 11<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
annoying monotonous beeps of the monitors seemed far into the distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As his eyes slowly opened the beeps became
louder and he remembered where he was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His eyes roamed the room landing on the sleeping form of Spencer Reid who’d
volunteered to sit with him until he regained consciousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He immediately tried to sit up but was pulled
back onto the bed by the pain now also awake in his body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reid quickly stood and approached the bed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You’re
awake.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Garcia…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“She’s
fine. The doctor gave her something to relax her. It was just a panic attack;
it’s to be expected.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
allowed his body to relax as he stared at the ceiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needed to be with her. He wanted to
apologize for upsetting her and for so many other things that would have to
wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
tried to comfort her…to hold her but she just freaked out, man.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan,
it’s going to take time lot’s of time. You both went through a stressful
ordeal.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
looked away from his friend; he didn’t want to see his face when he asked the
next question.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Did
he rape her?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan,
I think you should…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
turned and faced his friend with fury and tears in his eyes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Did
he rape her?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No
Morgan, he didn’t rape her.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
exhaled and turned his eyes back to the ceiling.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“She’s
still going to have the same feelings of violation and betrayal and anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he hadn’t been impotent he would have
raped her and none of us could have stopped him. Not even you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
saw him on top of her…she was naked and his hands were…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You
saw what he wanted you to see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
simulating the act and he did everything to her except penetrate her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan, look at me!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
reluctantly turned to face his friend.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
knew you were coming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wanted her to
wake up as he was attacking her so she would be terrified.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why her? She’s never hurt anyone in her life
and that sick son-of-a-bitch…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“She’s
a strong woman; strong enough to have found a way to defend herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She killed him! He didn’t see that coming!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No
he didn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I help her, Reid?
She’s never going to get over this.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
about you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The same thing he did to her
he did to you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No!
What are you talking about?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan,
you know what I’m talking about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each
time he stabbed you he was simulating the act of…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Don’t!
Don’t say it! I know what it means, please. I can’t talk about this right now.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Reid
watched his friend’s body stiffen on the bed and withdraw from him as he resumed
his fixed study of the ceiling his body slightly trembling as he fought back
the tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Penelope
opened her eyes still heavy from a drug-induced sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She saw her friend sleeping quietly in the
corner unaware that she was awake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
remained still feeling foolish and embarrassed at her earlier display of
emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her mind was beginning to
emerge from the fog caused by Anderson’s drug and she remembered the details of
her minutes with him; minutes that felt like hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d wanted to terrorize her and humiliate
her by drugging her and stripping her of her clothes and dignity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d planned to use her shame and violation
at his hands as his trophy proving that he had defeated Morgan and the
others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could still feel his hands
on her skin, could still smell his wretched cologne in her nostrils and the
weight of his body still felt heavy as she moved to find a more comfortable
position on the small narrow bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
heard a slight groan and knew that JJ was awake and Penelope welcomed her
company as she waited for her to look her way.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hello
Sleepyhead!” She said trying to sound chipper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“How
are you feeling, Garcie?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
JJ
cautiously approached the bed and looked down upon her friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She seemed pale and she wasn’t fooled by her
vain attempt at levity.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’ve
been better and I’ve been worse.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
JJ’s
lip trembled as she fought the tears threatening to overtake her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hey,
no tears! I’m fine, really. It’s going to okay.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yeah
I know it is. I’m just…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
wiped a tear and took a breath to compose herself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“…Just
happy to see you, that’s all.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Penelope
smiled for the first time since the nightmare had begun; she was happy to be
seen as her mother used to say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spite
of everything that had happened she knew that she had won.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson’s plans did not included getting
stabbed by his own knife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d
underestimated her light-hearted bubbly nature!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He confused it for weakness and she was not weak.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Then
she remembered Derek and the look on his face of horror as she pulled away from
his touch refusing his comfort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d
suffered unspeakably at the hands of Anderson and she knew he’d keep that
secret even from her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt her own
tears now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Derek?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
JJ
took her hand and squeezed it gently.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He’s
going to be fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He collapsed outside
your room but he’s going to be fine.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
need to see him. I feel horrible for how I treated him, JJ.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan
loves you and he’s a profiler. He knows your reaction was normal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Believe me he won’t hold it against you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
knew he would come, I knew you all would come.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Of
course.” She began still holding her hand. “I just prayed we weren’t too late.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No,
never, you were right on time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“As
it turned out you didn’t need our help.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
joked and smiled hoping to lighten the mood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Garcia smiled then quickly sadness covered her face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
never thought I’d have to kill someone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“It
was self-defense, Garcia. Anderson was a sick, sick monster!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
know. I just never imagined…that’s what you guys do your trained for it. Me,
I’m supposed to sit in my safe world with my babies and master cyberspace.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Well,
we do what we have to do and tonight you showed just how strong you are and
took back your control. I’m so proud of you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Somehow
that doesn’t make me feel better.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Home of Derek Morgan – 2 weeks later –<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She’d
kept a close eye on him since he’d been home. He walked around gingerly still
dealing with the pain of his wounds, still not talking about what had happened
and still refusing to reveal his upper body as they lied together each
night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her nightmares had kept her in a
constant battle for sleep but she was managing them better now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan on the other hand was suffering and
his nights were haunted by his experience with Anderson; joined now with Buford
and Foyet…sleep was now just a distant memory for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d complied with the Bureau’s request for
therapy and so did she both attending sessions separately and where she was
finding some relief and understanding, he was going through the motions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something needed to change or she knew she’d
lose him to the dark pit he was trapped in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Like
the night before and the night before that he hadn’t slept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His body ached more from fatigue than it did
from the still healing wounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even now
as he walked around his kitchen he found each step to be labored and slow and
his mind was clouded with his never ending battle not to think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t want to remember but the more he
tried to forget the more his mind remained fixated on his captivity and
torture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Good
Morning, Handsome.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
hadn’t heard her enter. He flinched as she wrapped her arms around his waist
and laid her head against his back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
forced herself not to react to his tension, as he’d also been jumpy since being
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seconds later he relaxed and
allowed her touch; another reminder that it would take time for things to get
back to normal.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hey,
it’s early you should still be asleep.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
should you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yeah,
well…” he chuckled sadly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’d love to
still be asleep but…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
carefully took the cup from his hand and laid it on the counter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She turned him to face her and waited for him
to look at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He did and her heart
broke for him as she saw the pain and loss in his eyes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
watched as her hands slowly approached his face he kept his eyes focused on
hers as if it were his lifeline.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
steadied himself for her touch as she placed her hands on each side of his face
and caressed lightly drawing him toward her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Their foreheads met and he inhaled and pulled her tight against his
body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He realized he needed the contact
between them; her touch was like a warm balm against his aching body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though they’d shared the same bed he had
not allowed any physical contact between them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
felt him tremble slightly as she placed a light kiss on his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She waited for his reaction before repeating
the action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt a twinge of hope as
she again kissed him this time running her tongue across his bottom lip
politely requesting entry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She smiled
against him as he let her in and she deepened the kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He joined her as their tongues explored each
other’s mouths and danced the dance of control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The need for air caused their bodies to surrender as they breathlessly
pulled apart.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
felt emotions stirring within him; emotions that he’d almost forgotten existed
and he blinked back his tears willing them to stay in their place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t want to cry, didn’t want to lose
control…control meant power; power to say no and power to fight back and resist
being forced to do things against his will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Then
he felt her lips on his face, then moving to his neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He ran his hands through her hair gently
pulling her away from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She saw in
his eyes what he was sure was hidden from her; fear and uncertainty but she
kept going for both of their sakes she knew they needed to feel again, to remind
each other that the beast hadn’t won this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She refused to surrender and she refused to let him surrender…she was
ready to meet his resistance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
returned to his lips only this time she didn’t wait for his permission as she
plunged her tongue deep within his mouth and hungrily devoured him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hands began to run circles over her back
and shoulders; he was so consumed by the taste of her that he’d momentarily let
his guard down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her hands began to creep
beneath his t-shirt brushing purposefully across his abdomen then his chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He froze and broke the kiss and moved
slightly away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked up at him in
silent expectation watching him process what was happening in his mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
not Anderson.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She whispered taking a
step toward him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
said, I’m not Anderson…and neither are you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
ran his hand across his face, neck and over his head trying to make sense of
her words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Backing away his body came to
a stop against the kitchen island.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Quickly she closed the gap between them and facing him took his hands in
hers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“It’s
time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Time
for what?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Time
to stop letting him win, my love.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
don’t understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you want from
me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
want you to fight this! Derek, you have to fight or Anderson’s plan worked!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
pushed past her and bolted from the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He suddenly felt dirty, worthless, like the little boy, who’d spent the
weekend in a small cabin with a man who he thought loved him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He found himself in the bathroom and with a
trembling hand turned on the shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
caught his reflection in the mirror just before it clouded over with
steam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His stomach wretched at the sight
of the scars that ran over his chest, stomach and arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The room began to close in and he couldn’t
breathe and in that moment he wanted to die.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
heard the water running as she stepped into their bedroom walking slowing
toward the bathroom she heard the gut wrenching sounds of agony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was conflicted in that moment knowing
that he’d never want her to see him in this state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she had to save him; she had to throw him
a lifeline because he was sinking fast into the abyss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, she pushed the door open.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
heat from the steam greeted her as she pushed her way in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sat on the floor his arms wrapped around
his knees that were pulled tightly against his chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t acknowledge her presence but she
continued to move toward him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she
lowered her body next to his he turned his head to face her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tears mixed with the wetness of the steam
illuminated his face as he sobbed and shook uncontrollably.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tearfully and without saying a word she
placed her hand on his arm and immediately he allowed his body to fall against
hers as he continued to sob.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wrapping
her arms around him tightly she rocked back and forth whispering in his ear.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
love you, Derek Morgan.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
shook his head affirmatively unable to speak.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You’re
going to get through this…we both are going to get through this.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Again
he shook his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then without warning
he shifted and took her in his arms resting his head on her chest and this is
how they remained for the next several minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The water still running unused in the shower and the steam a thick
smoldering cloud around them, the two sat in each other’s arms on the
floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both of them in pain beyond even
their own realization, both needing so much from the other and both drowning
and seeking solace in each other’s touch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
need you, Penelope.” He whispered so softly he wasn’t sure she heard him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
did and a small smile found it’s way onto her face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
need you too, Derek.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Now
their healing could begin…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">“Love one another and help others to rise to the higher
levels, simply by pouring out love. Love is infectious and the greatest healing
energy.” - </span></i><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/s/sai_baba.html"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: windowtext; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Sai Baba</span></i></a><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria;">The End…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-35577000691898266602015-10-18T08:00:00.000-07:002015-10-18T08:00:01.179-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 10<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<a href="" name="OLE_LINK2"></a><a href="" name="OLE_LINK1"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Potomac General Hospital – Evening<o:p></o:p></b></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Defying
doctor’s orders he’d left his room and now sat peacefully next to her bed each
movement of her chest confirming that she was safe and alive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He held her hand firmly in his grip as he
waited for her to open her eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ignoring his pain and earlier warnings of possible re-injury if he left
his bed, Morgan was where he needed to be and he vowed never to leave her side
again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Thankful
that his team had arrived within moments of him finding her and got them both
to the hospital although he remembered none of what had happened after finding
Garcia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her unconscious naked body lying
underneath Agent Anderson haunted him now and the memory would be one she would
insist that he share with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His heart
ached for her and the guilt of not protecting her reaffirmed that she was far
more than he deserved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wanted to
spare her the details and the true extent of her violation at the hands of that
evil monster but it was now a part of her medical history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For now he would just sit next to her
watching and waiting until the effects of the drugs left her system and allowed
her to fully awaken again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Hotch and
the others congregated in the hallway waiting for an opportunity to go in and
see her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’d seen Morgan sneak into
her room holding his arm closely around his body and obviously in great
pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needed to be in bed recovering
but even in his weakened state they knew he wouldn’t be stopped. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“How will
they ever recover from this?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">JJ was the
only one brave enough to say out loud what the others were thinking.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Time. Time
and patience.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotch offered.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Is that
what worked for you, Hotch.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The senior
agent looked thoughtfully into her blue eyes; they both knew it wouldn’t be
that easy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“We may
never know what really happened to Morgan. The doctors say that he refused a
rape kit.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Do you
think Anderson…?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Reid ran a
hand through his hair and leaned against the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t imagine Morgan being victimized
in such a way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even knowing his history
of sexual abuse as a child, Morgan the man had proven to be a force that was
nearly invincible…no, no way would he allow anything so horrible to happen to
him.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“We don’t
know Reid and we’re not going to force him to tell us.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Hotch
looked around at each of his agents as a warning to not push Morgan for
answers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“He may not
have a choice, Hotch.” Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Why?
Anderson is dead. The case is closed.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“You know
the bureau they want answers and details!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s not going to be able to stay silent.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Just as the
discussion was escalating an older gray-haired woman dressed in green scrubs
and a long white lab coat appeared from around the corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The group turned to face her.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I’m Dr.
Abigail Grisham.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You all must be here
for Ms. Garcia and Agent Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Yes. I’m
SSA Aaron Hotchner. These are, Agents Rossi, Jarreau, and Dr. Spencer Reid.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Nodded
greetings were given and received as the doctor began to give her report on the
two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“How are
they, Doctor?” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Damn
lucky! Agent Morgan sustained multiple stab wounds that appear to have been
inflicted to cause pain and not death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s lost a lot of blood but no major organs were damaged. We need to
keep him still and he may need a transfusion if his body isn’t able to
replenish the blood supply on it’s own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our main concern is infection and the fact that he won’t stay still long
enough to allow his body to heal.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“That may
be a problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s not going to stay put
until the woman in that room is okay.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“So I’ve gathered.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“How is
Penelope?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Ms. Garcia
is a very lucky woman considering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
was given a very strong sedative which had she been given any more would have
killed her. She has some bruising on her lower body but we expect to be able to
release her in the morning.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Was she…?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Garcia’s Room – <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Her eyes
fluttered open and met the hopeful smile of Derek Morgan and her tears
immediately began to well up and flow down her face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gently he brushed them away as well as a few
strands of hair from her eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“You’re
here.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She said drowsily.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I’m here
Baby Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“You look
horrible.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Ouch.” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Oh you’re
still delicious to look at, my Sweet it’s just…”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Shh…save
your strength. The doctor says it’ll a be a few more hours before the drug is
completely out of your system.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He brought
her hand to his lips and kissed it sweetly his eyes never leaving hers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I thought
I’d never see you again.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“You can’t
get rid of me that easy.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Shouldn’t
you be in bed?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Don’t
worry about me I’m just fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Then the
expression on her face grew serious and fearful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew immediately that she would begin
asking a million questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Derek, did
he…?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Baby Girl,
we can talk about this when you’re feeling better, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“No Derek.
I need to know now! Did he rape me?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Baby…”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I started
waking up and I could feel him…he was on top of me…his breath was hot on my
face…his hands…his hands were touching me…everywhere…Derek I was so scared! I
couldn’t move! I couldn’t breathe! I just wanted to…die!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She was hysterical
now and he stood to take her in his arms but she wouldn’t have it she needed
distance not closeness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson’s face
and hands and heavy body on hers was all that she could see now as she thrashed
and ran her hands over her arms as if she could scrub the memory of the assault
away.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I’m going
to call the nurse so she can give you something, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Derek
pushed the call button and stood helpless near her bed desperately wanting to
touch her and to kill Anderson all over again. It broke his heart that she
didn’t want him near and that his touch only added to her distress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He tried not to take it personally after all
this was a natural reaction but he couldn’t help it. She’d always called him
her hero but he was helpless now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d
been too late to save her this time and she knew it she said as much by pushing
him away in shear terror and disgust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The door
opened and two nurses entered followed by Dr. Grisham.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could see the others in the hallway
looking on confused and worried.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan
was quickly ushered out to join them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
watched on helplessly as the door to the room was closed in his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">JJ watched
her friend teary-eyed, as he stood helpless in front of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She couldn’t imagine what he and Garcia had
endured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was barely standing yet he’d
insisted on being here for her. Now he looked so lost that she felt her own
heart break for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She watched as he
turned toward them looking far away passed them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then she saw his legs give away as his body
seemed to float toward the ground.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Derek!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-76502760390069853512015-10-17T08:00:00.000-07:002015-10-17T08:00:04.066-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 9<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<a href="" name="OLE_LINK2"></a><a href="" name="OLE_LINK1"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Morgan
stumbled through the Emergency Room automatic doors and hailed a cab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew it was short of a miracle that he’d
managed to get this far without collapsing but he had to get to her. He’d been
in the hospital long enough for the doctors to suture and dress his
wounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were planning to keep him
for a few days until he regained his strength and his blood levels returned to
normal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was having none of it he
hated hospitals and he needed to get to Garcia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
had described in great detail what he had planned for her and the thought of
her in his hands was too much for him to handle; if he had to crawl then that’s
what he would do to make sure she was safe.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“So
beautiful.” He uttered.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He slowly
unbuttoned her blouse as she lay motionless on the floor of Derek’s
office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hands trembled slightly as
he ran his hand across her lace-covered breast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This would be his ultimate triumph over Derek Morgan and the
others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d take her body in the most
intimate and violent way possible and when he was finished he would mark her
with the same knife he’d used to assault Morgan. Then he’d slit her throat and
watch her blood spill onto her creamy pale skin as she breathed her last
painful breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew they would hunt
him down and eventually catch him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
didn’t matter, he relished the thought of the angry man’s dark powerful hands
around his throat squeezing the life out of his body as he wheezed and grinned in
his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would have completed his
mission to show them all just who was the smartest and her death would always
remind them of just who he was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He would
rest in peace knowing that they would be consumed with their guilt for
disregarding him as nothing but their errand boy with no first name.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“So
beautiful!” He uttered again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“FASTER!”
He yelled at the cabbie.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I’m sorry
sir, I’m going as fast as I can! This traffic is a bitch!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Derek ran
his hands over his head again and again as he looked out of the windows over
and over like a mad man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had to save
her, he knew what Anderson would do to her and he wouldn’t be able to live with
himself if he didn’t get there in time to save her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wouldn’t see the trouble coming and he
knew she had not paid attention to all of his attempts to teach her
self-defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had all been a joke to
her; she’d accused him of being over-protective. But now, now he cursed himself
for not forcing her to pay attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
checked his watch for the umpteenth time; he was still fifteen minutes away…he
knew a lot could happen in fifteen minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He wondered
why women spent so much time and money on lacy things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What was the fascination really? He thought
to himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only to be ripped off…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He felt the
strap give under the stress of his pull.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">…and be
discarded like garbage in a heap along with the rest of their clothing…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He peeled
away the material exposing her entirely now; he couldn’t help but gasp in awe
of what he saw…what was his for the taking without resistance and without the
need of force.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He only wished that he
found pleasure in the sweet delicacies of womanhood. He much preferred his time
with Derek; watching him squirm and fight against the pain refusing to show
fear as he trembled under his touch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
smirked as he ran his hand across her exposed skin and he wondered if Derek
would be forthcoming with his friends about their time together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It didn’t matter, he’d come and visit him in
his dreams and then the two of them could reminisce together as he’d allow him
to keep their little secret.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">His hands
moved slowly up her thighs pushing her skirt up as they went. More lace matching
the ruined bra that now lay next to her head. He felt a rush as the sound of
ripping material filled the otherwise quiet room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He felt as if he were watching a scene from a
low budget film as his hand touched where only seconds ago the lace had been.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Yes!” He
moaned.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">This is what
kept the smile on Agent Morgan’s face; the privilege to touch her there…he
wished now that she were awake to experience the moment. No matter he was aware
of the cameras placed strategically in each corner of the room, so he knew
later, much later, the others would watch what he had done to their precious
Penelope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“FASTER!”
He yelled again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He knew it
wouldn’t make a difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cabbie
glanced at him through the rearview mirror and shook his head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t the first impatient fair he had in
his twenty years driving and he was certain he wouldn’t be the last. So, he
kept driving, dodging in and out of traffic as fast has humanly possible.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Derek
checked his watch again…5 minutes… his body was betraying him faster than he
wanted to admit. Still wearing the thin hospital gown over his pants that was
now drenched in his blood he feared that he wouldn’t have the strength to make
it out of the cab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4 minutes…he wondered
what Anderson was doing to her now…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
had relieved himself of his clothes and he felt unusually free and powerful as
he walked naked around his prey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
still hadn’t moved held firmly in the darkness by the drug he’d shot into her
neck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was totally unaware of her
state of being and what he was about to do to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He knew his
time was running short they knew where he was he’d stuck to the Reaper’s M.O.
he wanted them to come and see his masterpiece, the carnage and chaos that he
and he alone had created. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Sir, we’re
here!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The man
glanced at his passenger from the rearview mirror. His head was leaning against
the side window and his eyes were closed; he strained to see if he was
breathing and he sighed in relief as he saw the slight movement of his chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then his eyes opened slightly as his bloody
hand held out several rumpled bills.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Hotch
pulled into the parking lot barely missing a yellow cab that had pulled away
from the curb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They thought it odd that
a cab would be there at this hour but inquiring about it was not their
immediate concern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The four jumped out
of the SUV and began running at top speed toward the building. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Morgan
cursed the fact that there were no longer any security guards in the evening
hours due to budget cuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only
people in the building would be the mantainence crews and a few stray
staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His bloody hand keyed in his code
and the door sprung open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Six flights of
stairs awaited him but he didn’t care and he didn’t know where he’d get the
strength to climb to where he knew Anderson was holding Penelope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Hotch
noticed the blood on the key pad as he punched in his numbers; he didn’t make
any attempt to explain it as the four ran through the door and up the stairs
where the trail of blood continued.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
lowered his body on to her as she began to stir slightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good, he thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needed her awake she needed to know that
he was here on her…in her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He planted a
hard kiss on her lips as her eyes flitted open slightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grinned against her mouth. She moaned as
her eyes widened and she became aware of what was happening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He broke the kiss and raised up enough to
look into her angry eyes. She opened her mouth to scream but his hand clamped
roughly over her mouth muffling her attempts to scream or speak.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She felt
his other hand on her throat squeezing and cutting off her air.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Now, now,
Penelope fighting me won’t stop me it just gets me excited.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She
continued to struggle beneath him as he positioned himself between her legs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Derek
fought me too but it didn’t stop me from doing whatever I wanted to him either.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She shivered
at his touch as he readied himself to do the unthinkable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both of his hands were busy which meant he
was no longer armed so as she struggled her eyes looked around her for the
knife.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Penelope!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She heard
him call her name and it gave her renewed strength. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Derek!”
She screamed under the hand clamped tightly over her mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Penelope!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Her team
was here too! She felt new tears begin to descend down her face as she saw the
glint of the knife out of the corner of her eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He lowered himself further onto her inhaling
her jasmine scented cologne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t
see her hand move as he was consumed with the terror in her eyes and the sound
of footsteps coming up the steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were
here, he was here; knowing that he’d beaten them and taken Derek Morgan’s most
prized possession was almost as exhilarating as his skin touching hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He turned
his head toward the door he wanted to make sure he saw the expression on
Morgan’s face when he saw the two of them naked on the floor that’s when he
felt the sharp pain in his chest; excruciating piercing pain and his eyes
jerked back to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was smiling now
an odd twisted angry smile had spread across her face as the pain increased
like a twisting turning…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The knife;
he’d set it next to her confident that she’d be in no shape to notice it and
too afraid to fight him or move but he was wrong, terribly wrong he knew it now
but it was too late.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He collapsed with a
thud on top of her and just as things became black he heard her laugh.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The sight
of the two naked bodies stilled him in his tracks as he yanked open the door of
his office. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Was she laughing</i>? He
thought to himself as he now had to force his weak body forward; the laugh
sounded more like crying now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">It was
strange that Anderson had not acknowledged his presence surely he would want to
see his reaction to him with Penelope like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, he was still too still for a man
intending to force a woman into an ungodly act. It was then that he saw the
blood spreading slowing upon the carpet and he grabbed the man with the
strength he had left and yanked him away from her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was covered in red smeared as if she’d
been painted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He threw the man’s
lifeless body to the side and scooped her into his arms. Her eyes were glazed
over in shock, fear and shame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he
rocked her naked shivering body he felt the remainder of his strength leave his
body as the darkness pulled him in and away from her.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-73586785210442844942015-10-16T20:43:00.000-07:002015-10-16T20:43:23.295-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 8<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<a href="" name="OLE_LINK2"></a><a href="" name="OLE_LINK1"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Her
jaw dropped and so did her heart as she saw the wide-eyed face of Agent
Anderson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His clothes were disheveled
and were stained with blood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He moved
toward her closing the door behind him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Her mind raced for a way around the man who’d for the last few days had
held Morgan captive doing god knows what to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mentally she kicked herself for not paying
more attention to all the attempts Derek had made to teach her
self-defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still, she wasn’t going to
be another one of this maniac’s victims without a fight.<o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“What have
you done with Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Oh, so
sweet! I love how you all care about each other.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Where is
he, you son-of-a-bitch?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
confident that he had all the time in the world leaned against the door and
eyed her up and down.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Agent
Morgan is indeed a lucky man. You are so beautiful! I never gave you much
thought though; with all the makeup and colors…the hair…I really missed it, you
know?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Get out of
my way!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She moved
toward the door to show that she was not afraid of him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He smiled and stood straight ready for her
feeble attempt to get past him.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Come on,
don’t you want to party, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Baby Girl</i>? I
want to party. I want to taste what Morgan gets to taste every night.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The buzzing
of her cell phone drew both of their attentions to the glowing display screen
with Hotch’s name showing brightly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Penelope grabbed it as Anderson shifted moving toward her.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Hotch!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">It was all
she managed as Anderson grabbed her from behind clamping a firm hand over her
mouth as he held her in a death grip around her neck.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Now, now,
Penelope, we can’t have that just yet!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He snatched
the phone from her and took a long cleansing breath.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Hello,
Agent Hotchner, Penelope can’t come to the phone right now she’s a little
busy.” He smirked.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Penelope
struggled under his grip but he was too strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She could here Hotch’s voice on the other end as she screamed under
Anderson’s hand.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Please
Agent, your threats don’t scare me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve
already proven that I’m smarter than all of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I beat the invincible Derek Morgan and now
I’m going to play with the lovely Penelope Garcia.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
threw his head back as he listened to Hotch’s continued threats to do him
bodily harm and he laughed in response as Garcia continued to struggle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Yes, I
understand why you would be upset, Sir, but I really have to go now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Penelope’s really gotten me worked up with
all of her wiggling and moaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve
got to relieve some pent up tensions and she’s just the one to help me with
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you find Derek let him know
that maybe he and I can compare notes sometime.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He ended
the call and threw the phone across the room and crashing into the wall.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Now it’s
just you and me, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Baby Girl</i>…”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Home of Derek Morgan – <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">As the team
waited for Garcia’s call back, Hotch thought that he also needed her to freeze
Anderson’s assets so that he wouldn’t have access his bank accounts and credit
cards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Hotch!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">His heart
stopped as he heard the man’s voice on her phone and her whimpering in the
background.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Anderson!
Let her go! She has nothing to do with this!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Hotch’s
mind went back to the day he lost Haley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He should have known Anderson would go after Garcia how could they have
missed that?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“If you
touch her, I’ll kill you! That’s a promise!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The team
gathered around their leader fearing the worse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hotch ran his hand through his hair as he tried to reason with
Anderson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He closed his eyes as the line
went dead.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Hotch?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ didn’t really need to ask.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“He’s got
Garcia.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She felt
his breath on her neck and the narrow blade of the knife as he slowly ran it up
and down the side of her neck. His hand was still over her mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He began to apply pressure to the knife
causing her to stop her struggle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“That’s
right, that’s a good girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He began to
walk them backwards toward the door keeping the knife to her neck to remind her
who was in charge.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Let’s move
this party to Derek’s office since he won’t be using it for a while.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">It was late
and everyone who was not a part of the team had already left for the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt the tears falling from her eyes not
from fear as much as from anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
wanted to kill him herself but he had the knife.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Open the
door.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She did as
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</span>Without being told she opened the door to Derek’s office and the two of
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">She made up
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what happened in the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’d make
Derek proud to know that he hadn’t wasted his time teaching her how to protect
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He was torn
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defiled this floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was his now and
after he was finished with her, he’d carve his name in her pale soft skin before
he slit her throat.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Potomac General Hospital – <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Derek felt
the pain easing and transforming into numbness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The nurses had finally left him alone and for that he was thankful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He needed to get to a phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson had whispered his intent in his ear
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I’m coming Baby Girl. I won’t let him hurt
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-85997303690670410152015-09-18T17:46:00.000-07:002015-09-18T17:46:12.588-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 7<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
cold night air sent shivers through his weakened body as he lay on the
concrete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bright red neon light made
him squint as he looked around for someone to help him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was always people coming and going from
the ER but not tonight it was almost like a ghost town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had no choice but to close his eyes and
wait; Anderson had dragged him from the basement and then drove to the hospital
with him in the back seat of his car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
had to give it to the man, he’d planned every thing perfectly, Neil Butcher,
one of the last victim’s wallet was shoved in Morgan’s pant pocket before he
sped out of the parking lot out of sight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Anderson
was elated he had beaten the great invincible agent Derek Morgan and he was
close to beating them all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was giddy
as he sped through the city; they’d underestimated him only seeing him when
they needed some menial task done otherwise he was invisible.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Home of Derek Morgan – <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team stood outside far from the ongoing investigation of the local police
department.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The forensics team was busy
combing every inch of the home that Derek had owned and occupied for the last
eight years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Bureau chief had
already sent word by the detective in charge that they were to stay away from
the case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, they watched from the
sidewalk as officers moved in and out of the house.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
what are we going to do?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reid said
breaking the silence.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
can we do? We’ve been ordered to stay off the case.” Hotch added irritated.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“These
guys don’t care about finding Morgan, we can’t just stand around! I don’t give
a rat’s ass what the bureau chief says!” Rossi yelled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
had no intentions on standing around but he knew they had to be careful and
their next move had to be the right one or they’d all be looking for work and
Morgan would be dead.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotch,
you were a victim of the Reaper’s you know him better than anyone else.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“What’s his next move?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Anderson
has gone through great lengths to copy the Reaper’s M.O. but he doesn’t have
the skills or the resources the Reaper had.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Well,
he knows he can’t use the FBI resources or he’ll be caught. His computer skills
are limited at best, so being able to move around without being found like the
Reaper is out of the question.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Okay,
so…” Rossi started.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“As
much as he wants to be like the Reaper, he wants to stand out on his own too.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
what are you saying?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He’s
not going to take the time the Reaper took to torment us he’s looking to go out
quickly and with a bang.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
do you think he’s already killed Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No
not yet but he’s running out of time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
quickly pulled his phone from his pocket and dialed Garcia.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotch!
Please tell me you found him!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No
Garcia, I’m sorry we didn’t.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
could hear her voice hitch on the other end. She was trying so hard not to let
him hear her crying but he heard that too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Garcia,
I need you to call all the local hospitals; start with the closest ones to
Morgan’s home and work your way out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
didn’t have a lot of time so he has to be close.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“O-Okay…I’m
on it!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“…And
Garcia…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yes,
Hotch?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hurry!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Potomac General Hospital –<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
It
had been an unusually quiet evening, which was very seldom the case in the
Emergency Room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All Carlos wanted was a
cigarette and a few moments of piece away from his fellow nurses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was the bad thing about slow nights it
gave the others too much time to talk about boyfriends, babies and bills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had no use for any of it and he’d had his
fill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cool air felt like heaven and
the first drag on the long brown cigarette between lips almost made him giddy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Then
he saw him laying on the ground near the flagpole on the edge of the handicap
parking spaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it weren’t for the
fact that he’d moved into the light he wouldn’t have seen him at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carlos dropped the lit cigarette on the
ground and rushed over to the form hoping it was just some drunk who’d managed
to find his way from the nearby alley across the street…as he got closer he
knew it was much more than that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hold
on! You’re going to be okay!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Carlos
placed his hand slowly on the man’s shoulder to keep him from moving.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Help
me!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
His
voice was barely audible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carlos noticed
the blood…so much blood the man’s shirt was drenched and the ground around him
was wet with his blood.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Don’t
move, okay, don’t move! I’m going to get help!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team was headed back to the office when Hotch’s phone rang.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
did you find, Garcia?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
may have something! No one by the name of Derek Morgan has been admitted to any
hospitals within a hundred miles but there was a man who was just admitted to
the ER at Potomac General that fits Morgan’s description but his I.D. says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘Neil Butcher’.</i>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Neil
Butcher?” Reid shouted.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yes,
why?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“That’s
the name of our last victim.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Thanks
Garcia!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
quickly turned the SUV around and sped off in the opposite direction toward
Potomac General Hospital.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters, Quantico, VA –<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Garcia
began shutting down her computers there was no way in hell she was going to sit
here waiting to hear news on Morgan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
needed to be there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her hands shook as
she moved around the room on autopilot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had to be okay she had to be able to yell at him about getting
himself hurt and making her worry and…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
was pulled from her frantic activity by a light knock on the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t have time for visits she kept
working to power down her equipment but the knock sounded again except this
time it was louder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Come
In!” She shouted.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
She
didn’t turn around as the door opened throwing things into her large bag and
folding up her laptop.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
sorry but I really don’t have time to chat! I have to leave…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hello,
Penelope.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
familiar voice stilled her busy flutter turning to meet the wide grin of the
last person she ever expected to see.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Miss
me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-23332641937464658682015-09-11T19:00:00.000-07:002015-09-18T17:43:50.134-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 6<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<a href="" name="OLE_LINK2"></a><a href="" name="OLE_LINK1"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – <o:p></o:p></b></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Even though
he would never admit it, Hotch was a little unnerved by the phone call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotch looked around the room at the others as
the buzz of the phone rang in his ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The man was
devolving and they needed to find him quickly if they were going to save
Morgan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Until now they had no real clues
except for the fact that he was an admirer of the Reaper using his crimes to
pattern his after.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“He’s a
ballsy son-of-a-bitch!” Rossi groaned.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Just like
Foyet…” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“But he’s
not as smart. He’s studied the Reaper’s cases backward and forward he thinks he
can beat us.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“But he
can’t and if Garcia is right we know where he has Morgan.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ added.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Home of Derek Morgan -<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
smiled confidently as he looked around the home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The others didn’t realize just how close he
was; they were no doubt trying to find where he lived or if he secretly owned
any other property.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would never
find him until he was ready for them to find him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he walked around the living room he ran
his fingers across the leather sofa and examined the artwork hanging from the walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he picked up picture after picture from
the mantle envying the smiling faces of the people who were a family even
though they did not share any DNA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
should be him in those pictures; smiling and acting silly feeling wanted but he
was on the outside, left out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His anger
overcame him as he violently flung the pictures to the ground smashing the
glass across the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">The Reaper
had attacked Hotch in his home waiting for him after the senior agent returned
from a case in Canada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson had done
one better attacking Morgan at the BAU headquarters and then bringing him here
and as he slowly walked around enviously examining each room he felt not only
justified but vindicated somehow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d
worked for the BAU team for the last eight years and his only real
accomplishment was managing to remain invisible unless of course they needed an
errand run or some menial task performed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not now he had them all scared shitless and willing to do anything he
commanded to save their friend.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
glanced at his watched and taking one final look around the room he headed to
the basement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As clever as he had been
he knew that eventually even the overpaid, overrated agents of the BAU would
figure things out…not soon enough, he snickered to himself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He knew he
was coming the third step had given him away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Morgan had meant to replace the rotten piece of wood months ago but his job
had delayed him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His hands and feet were
still bound and his body especially were he’d been stabbed were throbbing with
pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oddly, he took comfort in the pain
it meant that he was still alive, still had time to convince his captor to
release him and still time for his team to find him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson’s over confidence and rage would
have to be his only weapon…it was all he had to fight with and even time was
beginning to choose sides against him.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Miss me?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Back so
soon?” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I love
your stubbornness…so damn sexy!” Anderson chuckled.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">His heart
rate increased he knew what was coming next the knife in the man’s hand
confirmed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson dropped to his
knees and leaned in close.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Now, be a
good boy…I’ll try to be gentle.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Morgan
closed his eyes and tried to calm his breathing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hated the arrogant grin on his face that
seemed to grow more and more with each visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Slowly running the knife up and down his chest, Anderson watched for any
sign of fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seeing none he angrily plunged
the knife into Morgan’s left side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
pain was like the first time, raw and piercing and the repetition of the
brutality had not done anything to dull his senses.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“You should
be use to this by now, Derek.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">He didn’t
know the sound of his first name could sound so dirty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He cursed himself for not being able to hide
the pain.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Your friends are quite concerned for
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s sweet really.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“What are
talking about?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“How you
all regard each other…you’re like this little family…you love each other.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Yeah we
do.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Anderson
slowly pulled the knife from his body and Morgan could not suppress his cry of
agony the grin on his tormentor’s face was now a toothy smile.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“At last! I
knew it would only be a matter of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I must admit you are most stubborn!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“You sick
son-of-a-bitch!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“Now, now,
Derek, I thought we were becoming close.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“I’d rather
be dead!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">“And so you
shall!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">Garcia’s
hunch had been right Morgan’s car was parked in the driveway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotch and the others quickly got out of the
SUV’s and headed toward the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rossi
and JJ headed around the side of the house toward the back entrance, Hotch and
Reid to the front.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On his mark, Hotch
ordered them in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Swiftly and quietly
they began a search room-by-room meeting at the basement door. Hotch led the
team down the steps pausing momentarily on the squeaky third stair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were no sounds and no movement from the
darkness as they continued and no reaction from the third steps announcement of
their presence. Then there was the blood; lots of blood in varying shades of
brown, burgundy and bright red…no doubt Derek’s blood and it stilled them as
they formed a semi-circle around the stained concrete floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>None of them had ever been in his basement
until now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’d spent countless
weekends over the years upstairs and in Derek’s backyard but never the
basement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of them never realized
that this room, cold dark and now smeared in blood even existed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;">They were
certain he would be here they’d operated on next to no leads and this was their
best hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t that they were
wrong in fact they had gotten it right and Anderson true to the Reaper’s form
had indeed brought Morgan to his own home to torture and brutalize him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The problem was that they were too late.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-37524170494267093482015-09-10T19:00:00.000-07:002015-09-11T23:29:52.050-07:00Resurrection Chapter 5<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Anderson
stood and smiled down at Morgan his hands drenched in his victim’s blood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan’s main objective now was to remain
conscious and aware of his surroundings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He knew that by know his team was searching for him but he didn’t know
if they would reach him in time to save his life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was evident by the look in his assailant’s
eyes that he was just getting started.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’ve
sent Anderson’s address to your tablets.” Garcia announced.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
likelihood that Anderson had taken Morgan to his home was slim they all knew
but they needed a starting point and time was running out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was evident that Anderson had been
planning and waiting for an opportunity to take Morgan for a while now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Thanks
Garcia!” Hotch began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Rossi, JJ, Reid go
to Anderson’s and see what you can find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Kate you and I will stay here and go over his office and talk to other
agents that knew him.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Everyone
headed out following Hotch’s instructions leaving Garcia to continue searching
for more clues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ride to Anderson’s was
solemn with everyone running worst-case scenarios through their heads. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
JJ
began searching the bedroom inch by inch looking in the drawers, closets even
under the bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s when she found a
large flat box, which she pulled out and placed on the bed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Guys!”
She yelled.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Ross
and Reid came into the room and watched as JJ removed the lid and began to pull
the contents from the box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson had
collected dozens of pictures of Morgan; pictures of him at the gym, at work,
coming and going from his home and even several pictures of him working on a
fixer he’d recently purchased.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Rossi
pulled out a handful of pictures that caused him to be even more concerned.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Look at these.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
handed a few of the pictures to both JJ and Reid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The two looked on troubled.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Do
you think he’ll come after Garcia next?” Reid asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Maybe.”
Rossi answered.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why
didn’t he go after her first?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“She’s
not who he wanted.” Rossi surmised.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“Her
face is blacked out.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reid added.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“Look
at all of this stuff!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He’s got a list of Morgan’s properties,
pictures of them, his family’s addresses…” She continued.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Reid
grabbed another picture buried beneath a pile of other things and passed it to
Rossi.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“This
is creepy. This is a selfie of him sitting at Derek’s desk!” <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“What
do we do now?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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“Let’s
head back. We need to give the profile.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Location Unknown – Later –<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Morgan
flinched when Anderson knelt next to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was pissed at himself for showing any sort of emotion or fear to this
man who under normal circumstances was not his equal. He was so out of it that
he hadn’t heard him enter the room.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You’re
awake! Good then we can begin again.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Anderson,
what are you trying to prove? Even if you kill me you’re not going to get away
with this.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
want you to admit that I’m better, smarter than all of you! I should be a part
of the BAU, not you!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
tried to move from his position on the cold floor but he only succeeded in
causing more pain. Anderson smugly grinned as he brandished the knife holding
it to his throat and pressing lightly on his skin. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Where
should I start this time, Agent Morgan?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know you’re a lady’s man I wonder what they’d think of you if you
weren’t so pretty?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Anderson,
please don’t do this!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Don’t
worry, I wouldn’t dream of touching that beautiful face of yours I rather enjoy
looking at it myself.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Suddenly
and without warning Anderson plunged the knife into Morgan’s side causing him
to scream out in pain.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yesssss!!!!
That’s it scream, Derek!!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Anderson
had never felt a rush like that before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The feeling nearly lifted him off the ground as he held the knife in
place closing his eyes and enjoying the rush of emotions that made him dizzy
with pure gratification.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Ahhh…
no more! No…”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Whew!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This feels so fucking good!” Anderson
whispered in his ear.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
After
a few seconds, Anderson slid the knife from his side and watched as the new
wound gushed blood over his victim.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You
are an amazing man, Derek. I’ve got to go out for a while but I’ll be back. Try
not to miss me too much.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
writhed in pain on the floor fighting desperately to remain awake but the pain
made him long for sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was getting
weaker as he placed his hands over the new stab wound. Then mercifully, he was
pulled into the deep darkness and momentarily away from his current hell.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Anderson
left the homemade prison locking the door behind him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was proud of himself he’d managed to beat
the best of the best proving that he was indeed smarter and worthy of being
more than their lackey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d studied and
perfected the work of George Foyet and now the BAU and especially Derek Morgan
would learn the cost of ignoring and disregarding him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was still much more to do and he knew
that now was not the time to celebrate or get over confident with his early
victory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – later<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Okay,
what do we have?” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We
found a box full of stuff on Morgan.” Rossi began.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
and Kate began rummaging through the box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Reid began taking the items from the box and creating order pinning them
to the white board on the wall.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why
is Garcia’s face blacked out? Hotch asked to no one in particular.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We
thought maybe Anderson saw her as competition?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>JJ began.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Then
why didn’t he try to get rid of her?” Kate asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Maybe
he’s mocking Garcia, just like he’s mocking the rest of us by not shielding his
face on our security footage.” Reid surmised.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
wants us to know that he’s smarter and that he beat us.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotch added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Wait,
let’s back up.” Garcia interrupted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It
wasn’t until after George Foyet escaped that he made everything personal.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Garcia,
I think you’re on to something!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ
interrupted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The letters Morgan
received…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yes,
exactly! We need to look at the Reaper’s actions after he shifted his focus on
Hotch.” Said Reid.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“It
all began when we got back from Canada, he was waiting for you at your place.”
Rossi said looking at Hotch.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
tortured me for hours before dropping me off at the hospital with Morgan’s
credentials.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You
nearly died.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Garcia
had done so well keeping her emotions under control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to be strong and help the team find
Morgan but now reality hit her square in the face and she felt panic overtaking
her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We
need to find him!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Then
Hotch’s phone rang freezing them all in place.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotchner.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Agent
Hotchner, Agent Anderson here.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
immediately put the call on speaker.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Where’s
Agent Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Now,
now Agent Hotchner, where are your manners?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
have you done with him, Anderson?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We’re
getting to know each other. Just think when I’m done with him the two of you
will have a few things in common.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Let
him go! It’s still not too late to make this right.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
For
the next several seconds there was silence on the phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The team could hear breathing on the other
end. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Do
you know my first name, Agent Hotchner? Do any of you know my first name?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
They
all looked around the room at each other. Rossi shrugged his shoulders and
shook his head to the negative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotch
glanced at Garcia who began to type feverishly on her laptop. Hotch tried
stalling until she found the information.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Is
that what this is all about? Whether or not we know your name?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
sure by now your little blonde techie has hacked into the personnel files and
found out that my first name is Arthur.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Turn
yourself in, Agent before this goes any further.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Not
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</span>I’ve got to go now, if I don’t get back soon, he’ll worry.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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Anderson!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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Agent Hotchner. Goodbye all of you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-37350753045250569792015-09-09T19:00:00.000-07:002015-09-10T22:33:26.953-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 4<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team along with several other agents rushed toward the elevators and headed to
the parking garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The feeling of dread
overcame them all as they arrived on the lower level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rossi had arrived a few minutes before Morgan
that morning and so he knew where his friend’s car was parked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was missing now and there was no sign of
Morgan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What they did find was the
wallet of Mr. Neil Butcher, the latest victim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He’s
gone!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
began looking around and pacing in frustration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They had no leads and no suspects, nothing that would lead them to
Morgan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Reid
pulled a blue latex glove from his pocket and reached down to pick up the
wallet examining it closely hoping for a clue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Finding none and handing it to the forensic team, he walked toward the
entrance of the garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He felt himself
panicking and he struggled to regulate his breathing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan was like a brother and mentor and he’d
relied on him from day one to be the strong one, invincible and the thought of
him hurt or dead was overwhelming.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
do we do now?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We
wait.” Hotch answered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Place Unknown – <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
felt disoriented his head was spinning his side still radiated pain through his
body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The taser had caught him off guard
and it pissed him off that he didn’t see it coming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never expected Agent Anderson to have the
nerve or the inclination to attack him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Why Anderson and why was he the target of so much rage that he would
kill innocent people to get his attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The two men didn’t have a history, never had any conflict; in fact,
Morgan didn’t even know his first name and he had not thought much of the man
who’d only served to run errands for him and the other team members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He seemed almost invisible unless they needed
him for something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now as he lay on the
cold damp floor, he felt somewhat guilty for holding the young agent in such
disregard.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Once
he felt stronger he tried to stand but he couldn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His arms were bound together and secured above
his head to a large steel bolt in the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His feet were bound with layer after layer of duct tape then bolted to
another large ring on the opposite wall.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hey!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He yelled at the top of his lungs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Anderson! What’s going on!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
tried straining to see through the darkness and around the room but there was
nothing to see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He struggled for freedom
but it was useless.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Anderson!
You son-of-a-bitch! Let me go! You’re not going to get away with this, man!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Then
the door sprung open and Anderson stepped through the door silencing Morgan for
a moment as he watched his captor approach him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He saw the knife in his hand and he saw the glint of pleasure in his
eyes as he dropped to his knees next to him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Exactly
Agent Morgan, I am going to get away with this!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All of this and you know why?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No,
but I’m sure you’re going to tell me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’ll
get away with it because you and your <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">little
friends, </i>don’t even realize I exist! I’m nothing but your errand boy! You
all even think I love kissing your asses day in and day out!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Anderson,
just let me go!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is crazy!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Crazy?
Is that the best you can come up with, Agent?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You’re a profiler for god’s sake! Crazy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yeah, I guess you could say that but I’m going to have so much fun
carving you up and the best thing of all, I’m going to let your friends watch
me do it!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Anderson
pointed to the red blinking light overhead indicating that even now they were
being recorded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson took great care
in keeping his back to the wall but it didn’t matter if the team figured out it
was him they’d never find Morgan in time to save his life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
squirmed trying to loosen the bindings around his wrist but nothing worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he felt the knife break his skin as
Anderson pushed the knife into his gut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The pain was excruciating but he was determined not to scream so he
closed his eyes tightly and bit down on his lower lip and road out this first
round of torture.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Ever
the tough guy, hey, Agent Morgan?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
screams, no moans, no begging for mercy?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
smiled as he applied more pressure to the knife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan flinched but it wasn’t enough to
satisfy the crazed man.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
learned from your team that stabbing symbolizes the act of rape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t believe it until now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel so…so euphoric, right now!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why
are you doing this?” Morgan choked out over the pain.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Because
you ignored me! I sent you so many clues but like always you walked past me
like I was invisible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even when you
bolted out of the office today, you walked past me!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Don’t
do this, man!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
studied the Reaper’s case file for months! How he learned to stab himself
without hitting any vital organs. Now, that was tough! Foyet…that man was a
true artist, I tell you!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
felt himself fading; felt Anderson’s eyes on him watching his every breath and
taking great joy that he’d beaten the man that many thought was
unbeatable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then without warning
Anderson pulled the knife from Morgan’s body plunging him deep into the dark
unconsciousness of his mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters – Later –<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team had settled back at the round table while the CSI’s continued working the
scene in the garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Garcia pulled up
the security footage and pressed, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘play’.</i>
The entire scene unfolded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why
isn’t he trying to hide his identity?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Reid asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
wants us to know it’s him.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotch
answered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Because
he’s accomplished his goal.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
not sure where you’re going, Aaron.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
needed to prove that he was smarter than us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Once he stepped into that elevator he won.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why
Morgan?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reid asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
feels the team has wronged him in some way; Morgan symbolizes the best of the
best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s strong, smart, invincible;
the ultimate trophy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team continued to watch as Anderson jumped into the driver’s seat of Morgan’s
car and sped off with Morgan trapped in the trunk. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“So
what’s next?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Anderson
has already reached his end game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Anything that happens next is meant to break Morgan and us and when he
does, he’ll kill him.” Rossi surmised.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No!
We can’t let that happen!” Garcia cried.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Don’t
worry, Kitten, we won’t.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Meanwhile…<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Agent
Anderson once again entered the small room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He watched as Morgan lay on the floor bleeding and weak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Slowly he approached holding the knife in his
hands; still damp from his captive’s blood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He again kneeled down staring and waiting for his victim to open his
eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
knew he was there he felt his presence heard him breathing close to his
ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He tried to ready himself for what
was coming but even in knowing it still did not prepare him for the pain as
Anderson plunged the knife into his body finding great joy and fulfillment in
the damage he created.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Again,
Morgan refused to scream or beg he wasn’t going to give him that no matter what
this maniac did to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He tried to remain
still as he fought to endure the torture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His team was coming he knew it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had to hold on and prove that he wasn’t going to let evil win.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He
felt the knife going deeper into his side and for just a second he felt his
resolve wane. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-69562983925378243112015-09-08T19:26:00.000-07:002015-09-08T19:37:50.917-07:00Resurrection Day Chapter 3<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
sent his phone flying across the small lair after hearing from Hotch that two
more bodies had been discovered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
blamed himself; if he hadn’t been so stubborn two more innocent people wouldn’t
have lost their lives.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Okay,
so that’s coming out of your next paycheck, Mister!” Garcia scolded.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“That
was Hotch! Two more bodies, Garcia! You were right, I should have said
something sooner!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Oh
my god!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
paced the room inconsolable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t
know what to do or say to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It didn’t
matter he would never not blame himself for this. To make matters worse, his
feet had been nailed to the floor by Hotch; stuck inside while the rest of the
team was out looking for the son-of-a-bitch who was out there killing at will.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
did he say?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“The
police just found two more bodies; a man and a woman with the wedding rings
that belonged to the couple at the last crime scene!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Who
is this person? Everyone knows that the Reaper is dead, Morgan!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Is
he? Are we sure?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Of
course, we’re sure! Hotch killed him you saw the body lying on the floor of
their home!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
can’t stay in here while this guy is out killing innocent people!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“That’s
exactly what you have to do, Derek! You heard Hotch!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotch
isn’t the one this guy is after, I am! I can’t live with myself if I know this
guy is out there killing and I’m sitting in here doing nothing like a damn
coward!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan!
That’s exactly what he wants you to do! He wants you! If you leave you’re
playing right into his hands!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
can’t let anyone else die, Penelope! Besides, I can take care of myself!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
bolted toward the door. Just as he reached the handle he was stopped by her
firm grip around his wrist. He paused and turned to face her seeing the look of
terror in her eyes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Don’t
do this, please I’m begging you Derek.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
don’t have a choice, Penelope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to
stop him, whoever he is! I’ve got to finish this now! Today!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
gently kissed her on the lips and left the room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her heart nearly leaped from her chest in
panic as she quickly dialed Hotch’s number.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Crime Scene – </b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
and Det. Purchase had just arrived at the latest crime scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bloody bodies of Neil and Carla Butcher,
both forty-eight, were covered where they had been discovered less than an hour
before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Similar to the Reaper’s other cases
in Boston, the elderly man had been shot point blank in the head and the woman
had been shot and stabbed multiple times in the upper body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The man’s wallet was missing this time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It appeared that the couple had been on a
walk; witnesses reported seeing the couple at a nearby diner earlier. No one
had seen anything unusual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Why
would someone want to copy the Reaper’s cases?” Det. Purchase asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“The
Reaper proved to be one of our most challenging and memorable cases. He
attacked our team personally…he killed my wife and nearly killed my son.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Please
tell me you’re kidding!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
wish I was. He nearly killed me too.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Damn!
I didn’t know.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“This
guy is dead, right?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
killed him myself.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
two men continued to look over the scene while the forensics teams worked
collecting evidence.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Let’s
get back to the precinct we need to give the profile.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Police Department, Downtown D.C. –<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We’re
looking for a white male, 35-45 years of age, average build with knowledge of
past BAU cases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This person is a
psychopath with a narcissistic complex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We believe these murders are being committed as an act against one of
our agents who in this person’s mind has wronged him in the past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because of the manner of detail in these
cases this person is now or was in law enforcement and still has access to
information regarding past BAU cases.” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“This
man is using some sort of ruse to get close enough to the victims without
drawing attention to himself or making the victims feel threatened.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This UnSub takes something from each victim
and then leaves that item at the next murder scene just like the Reaper
did.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reid continued.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Because
the attacks are quick and extremely violent, we believe the UnSub to be small
in stature and lacks the ability to physically over power the victims or
transport them to another location after he kills them.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“This
killer shows no remorse, and makes no attempt to hide the bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is confident and has no fear of getting
caught.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Should you come across this man,
please take extra care, he is copying the Reaper’s M.O. and therefore is armed
and extremely dangerous and he absolutely loves what he does.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“The
sooner we catch this guy the better otherwise we will have more victims on our
hands. Thank you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hotch concluded.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team headed back to their work area to regroup. Just as Hotch stepped into the
small work area his phone rang; it was Garcia panicked and rambling at break
neck speed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He’s
gone!” She yelled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hold
on! What do you mean he’s gone?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan!
He, he, took off! I tried to stop him but he wouldn’t listen.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Garcia,
where did he go?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
don’t know, Hotch! He just said he couldn’t let any more people die!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Okay!
Okay! Keep trying to get a hold of him! We’ve got to get to him before the
UnSub does! Thanks, Garcia.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team sat shocked! They knew Morgan and they already knew what their boss was
about to tell them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan
took off, right?” Rossi asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yeah.
The news of the last two victims sent him over the edge.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Damn!
It’s exactly what the UnSub wanted him to do.” Rossi continued.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He
knew Morgan would come after him if he kept killing. So did we.” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
thought we had security on him.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ
said.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Getting
around a security detail is a piece of cake for Morgan.” Hotch answered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A few minutes earlier…<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
stepped onto the elevator and pressed the button for the garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just as the doors were almost closed Agent
Anderson stopped the doors with his hand and stepped inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan wasn’t in the mood for Anderson ever
cheerful and kiss ass attitude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now was
not the time to see that irritating smile plastered across his face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Going
down, Agent Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
nodded to the affirmative without uttering a word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had the right to be in a lousy mood,
Anderson thought to himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After all,
somebody was out there killing people because they had it out for him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d be in a crappy mood too. He thought
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No worries, things were about to
come to a head then everything would be back to normal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
He’d
watch the team deal with all sorts of craziness in the last several years that
he’d worked with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’d always
wondered what it would be like to be one of them, the elite, the cream of the
FBI crop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Derek
never realized how slow the elevators were. You’d think that as much money as
the government spent they would have faster elevators.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Five, four, three… Damn! Was Anderson going
to the garage too?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His blood was boiling
and he hoped for the younger agent’s sake that he didn’t try to engage him in
any more conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He couldn’t
afford a reprimand in his file for beating down a subordinate, not if he
planned on ever getting promoted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two,
one, Garage…finally!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan stepped past
the younger agent, (was that a damn smile on his face?) and into the dimly lit
garage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He cursed himself for arriving
late and having to take a parking space on the far end near the entrance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He grabbed his keys from his pocket, so deep
in thought he’d forgotten already about Anderson…didn’t even hear him walking
quickly behind him and didn’t realize that he’d followed him to his car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pressed the button and heard the chirp
disarming the alarm on his car and unlocking the door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Agent
Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
ignored the younger man he didn’t have time for idle chitchat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Agent
Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
turned, slightly startled that Anderson was standing way too close to him now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yeah,
what is it, Anderson?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He answered
irritated.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Didn’t
Agent Hotchner order you to stay in the office?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What
business is that of yours, Anderson?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“None,
I guess. It’s just that…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“It’s
just what?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You
should have listened!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-39445041687235402272014-06-02T21:32:00.000-07:002014-06-02T21:32:52.511-07:00Resurrection Day Part 2<span style="text-align: justify;">Now
it was time to call Hotch; until now the notes were cryptic mind games played
by a coward hiding behind the particulars of a past case. Things had suddenly
changed with the mention of a possible murder. He couldn’t live with the blood
of innocent people on his hands.</span><span style="text-align: justify;">
</span><span style="text-align: justify;">Penelope approached and saw the open box, the note and the
eyeglasses.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">She watched his face turn to
an ice-cold stare as he stood motionless looking at the note and then at her.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Without
a word, Morgan unlocked the door to their home and entered, cradling the box
under his arm and with his and Penelope’s go-bag in his hands he stepped
cautiously inside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quickly surveying the
room he moved allowing her to enter. He was in FBI agent Profiler mode, tense
and setting the bags down he ordered her again to stay in place and without
question she did as he asked. Walking through the house room by room clearing
and satisfying his mind that there had been no intrusion into their personal
sanctuary, he finally rejoined her in the front room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Derek?
I’m scared, you have to call Hotch.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Pulling
her to him gently and resting his chin on her head he held her close he could
feel her trembling and he wasn’t going to allow anyone to make her afraid in
her own home. Just then his phone rang alerting him to a new case. Seconds
later hers rang with the same message.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Detective
Artie Purchase of the D.C. Police Department is asking for our help in a
multiple homicide.” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team slowly began thumbing through the case files in front of them, pausing
momentarily on each of the gruesome pictures and eerie similarities from the
past. Hotch watched their reactions trying to remain calm and keep his memories
of the case pressed down and under wraps.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
Reaper had terrorized the city of Boston in the mid 90’s during his early years
with the BAU and it was his first case as lead profiler he remembered being called
in by Detective Tom Shaunessy and then abruptly sent away before even giving a
profile on the UnSub responsible for the deaths of twenty people. Shaunessy had
secretly made a deal with the Reaper, as he had been nicknamed, and the
killings stopped. Hotch left Boston but he didn’t leave the case. On his death
bed, Shaunessy confessed to Hotch the reason for sending him home and expressed
his fear that the killings would soon begin again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
killings indeed began again. The deal that had been offered to the Boston
detective was made to Hotch, which was turned down flat. George Foyet, the
Reaper proved to be one of the most famous killers they’d ever come up against,
hitting the team up close and personal; Morgan had been haunted by his run in
with him and Hotch had suffered the loss of his wife Haley before finally
killing George Foyet in his home with his bare hands. The thought that someone
was re-creating his crimes was hitting each one of them too close for comfort.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Tell
him!” Garcia said forcefully staring at Morgan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Garcia!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Tell
him or I will, Derek!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
team looked at the two and Hotch turned to face the agent face to face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Tell
me what?” He asked sternly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Someone
has been sending me messages…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What’s
that got to do with this case?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“The
messages are from George Foyet.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The proverbial
pin dropped hitting the floor with a loud resounding clang all eyes opened
wide, mouths gapping the silence that blanketed the room seemed to smother
them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Come
on…George Foyet is dead!” Rossi said.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan,
when did this start?” Hotch sounded irritated.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yesterday
mixed in with my mail was a letter that said, ‘If you stop hunting me, I’ll
stop hunting them.’ Then earlier today there was another letter here on my desk
and when we got home tonight there was a box on my porch with a note and a pair
of eyeglasses.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan,
why am I just now hearing about this!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotch,
I thought it was a joke.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan,
the last victim was missing his eyeglasses.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“What?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
felt as if someone had sucker punched him in the gut as he slumped in his
chair.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We
need to get all of the notes and the boxes to the lab asap!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotch…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Yeah?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
got a note when we were in Idaho on this last case…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
ran his hand through his hair and began pacing the floor. This wasn’t good.
Whoever this was had access to case information and knew too much about Derek-
where he lived and the cases he and the team had worked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Derek,
you can’t work this case.” Reid interjected carefully.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Like
hell I can’t!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“He’s
right, Morgan.” Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I’m
working this case!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“No
you’re not!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotch!
Come on, this son-of-a-bitch is taunting me! I don’t like being taunted!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Morgan,
you’re a victim; for some reason this guy is targeting you specifically. Until
we find him, you’re going to be under close protection.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Hotch,
please don’t do this!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“That’s
an order, Morgan. End of discussion?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
slammed his hand down on the table and then clenched his fist trying to regain
control of his emotions. Hotch watched him carefully understanding but needing
to maintain control. No one had suffered more than he had at the hands of Foyet
and he wondered if he would be able to revisit the dark place that had become a
part of his history, his present and surely his future. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
split the team up sending Reid and Alex to the coroner’s office, Rossi and JJ
headed to the crime scene and Hotch headed to the precinct to meet with
Detective Purchase.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Morgan
was more than a little irritated as he stayed behind yanked out of the field
for his own protection. He knew department protocol but he didn’t like being
anyone’s victim but for now he was stuck waiting while the rest of the team
solved the case without him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Come
on Baby Boy, you can keep Mama company while I hunt down this scum bag.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Penelope
headed toward her lair with her pouting boyfriend trailing behind her. This case
had gotten under his skin; if someone knew where he lived, the cases he worked,
then they knew about Garcia and the fact that they were a couple. His anxiety
level doubled imagining her getting caught in the crossfire or being targeted
by this sick monster. He didn’t want to tell her what was on his mind, but he
was determined not to let her out of his sight until this case was closed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Police Department- Downtown, D.C.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Hotch
was greeted by an anxious detective Purchase. He was oddly relieved to see another
person looking as if he’d just awoken dead center in his worst nightmare. The
detective didn’t know half of what the Reaper had done and what he really
meant, the damage he’d done to his life, but it seemed that he had grasped the
severity of the situation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Purchase
offered the agent his hand and thanked him for responding so soon.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Agent
Hotchner, thank you for coming so quickly.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
hope we can help.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Where’s
the rest of your team?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“At
the coroner’s office and the crime scene.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“You
all don’t waste time. Impressive.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“We
are intimately aware of the Reaper…we need to stop this…soon!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
The
two headed toward a conference room that had been set up for the team and began
to discuss the case.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“I
remember hearing about a case like this in Boston and I know you guys chased
this sicko around the country for a while, so I thought I better call you in.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
“Thanks.
It seems as though one of my agents have been targeted by this UnSub.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-54230544904120046402014-04-20T18:45:00.000-07:002014-04-20T18:45:30.245-07:00Resurrection Day Part I<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Either Morgan is losing his mind…or the Reaper has come back from the grave. When Morgan begins receiving communication from George Foyet and evidence of crimes similar to the Reaper, he begins to question all that he knew as the truth.</i><br />
<i>*********************************************************************************</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Do not be
misled by what you see around you, or be influenced by what you see. You live
in a world which is a playground of illusion, full of false paths, false values
and false ideals. But you are not part of that world. (Sai Baba)</i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>Home of Derek Morgan - Day</b><br />
<i>"You stop hunting me and I'll stop hunting them."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Morgan froze at the words. He'd opened the envelope without expecting anything more than a letter or a clever marketing scheme. It was handwritten with no return address but it came mixed with his other mail. As usual he'd waited to the end of the week to open his mail and the stack had grown to a nice pile of miscellaneous bills and worthless crap.<br />
<br />
Those words had set off a chain of crimes that had haunted Boston and later the BAU for years. George Foyet had made it his mission to become the most famous serial killer that they had ever dealt with. He wanted to prove that he couldn't be caught, that he was smarter, deadlier and invincible. He'd victimized and tortured Hotch, killing his wife and threatening the life of his young son until Hotch had finally killed him with his bare hands.<br />
<br />
Morgan himself had been a victim of the Reaper, coming far too close to death and spending too many months trying to shake the terrifying nightmare that still from time to time haunted him. Now he stood in his home being revisited by the ghost of a past that he never wanted to think about again.<br />
<br />
<i>"</i>What's up Hot Stuff? You look like you've seen a ghost?" Penelope cheerfully asked.<br />
<br />
"I have."<br />
<br />
Morgan turned and handed her the letter. She gasped and looked at him. His eyes told her that he was suddenly reliving his moment of hell with the Reaper.<br />
<br />
"Derek, what's going on? Is this some kind of joke?"<br />
<br />
"It has to be. Foyet is dead…"<br />
<br />
"Yes, I know he's dead but what is this about?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know Baby Girl. Somebody's idea of a sick joke."<br />
<br />
"Well, it's not funny."<br />
<br />
Penelope wrapped her arms around him. He was tense and even her body pulled close did not make a difference. She was worried, she saw what his run in with the Reaper had done. He'd never been in such a vulnerable position before; death literally hovering over him and being powerless and unaware of it all. It had unnerved him and for a brief moment it had made him doubt himself. She didn't want to think what being forced to go back to that place would do.<br />
<br />
"Call Hotch."<br />
<br />
"No."<br />
<br />
"Why? He needs to know. Call him!"<br />
<br />
"No Penelope! He's gone through too much. He doesn't need this. Besides, its just a joke."<br />
<br />
"Derek what if it's not a joke? You could be in danger?"<br />
<br />
"Baby Girl, don't worry, I'll handle it."<br />
<br />
He turned to face her and pulled her tight in his arms. He wished he hadn't shown her the letter. The Reaper was dead and buried…this was nothing more than a sick joke. Or was it?<br />
<br />
<b>FBI Headquarters - Quantico, VA</b><br />
Derek and Penelope road the six floors to the BAU in silence, hand in hand. She knew he was still troubled by what he'd found in his mail. Hotch needed to know but for now she'd honor his wishes not to mention it to their boss. She prayed that it is was just a joke and nothing more.<br />
<br />
He couldn't shake the eerie feeling of dread that had shot up his spine when he read the letter. Foyet even in death had haunted him. The nightmares of their first meeting still shook him to his core. Now someone was playing games and he wasn't going to stand for it. He was going to do whatever it took to stop this before it went on any further.<br />
<br />
Derek chuckled when the two arrived at her lair. In the corner of her desk sat a vase of drooping red roses which he had given her four days ago. Their pedals had turned from bright crimson to a dull deep burgundy and their leaves had hardened and had begun falling onto her desk.<br />
<br />
"Baby Girl, I think it's time to let these go. I don't think they're coming back to life." He grinned.<br />
<br />
"No! They're so beautiful and it was so sweet of you to surprise me with them."<br />
<br />
Garcia began fingering the dead leaves as he wrapped his arms around her waist and leaned in resting his chin on her shoulder.<br />
<br />
"I guess I better send you flowers more often so you don't have to hold on to them so long." He teased.<br />
<br />
She leaned back and relaxed against his chest smiling at the man that had rescued her heart and made her a part of his.<br />
<br />
"You do just fine, Hot Stuff."<br />
<br />
He kissed her gently on the neck and the two lost themselves in a quiet sweet moment.<br />
<br />
"Umm…I better leave before I forget that we're here to work."<br />
<br />
"Oh…I have lots of work I can give you, Handsome."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, I know you can, Baby Girl, but your work requires me to be butt naked and on top of you."<br />
<br />
"And the problem?"<br />
<br />
"Oh…no problem, no problem at all."<br />
<br />
Derek turned her to face him and placed a long hot kiss on her lips and then disappeared into the hallway. When she opened her eyes again he was gone and her knees where having problems holding her up.<br />
<br />
Derek was baffled at how Penelope was able to change his mood for the better. He smiled as he stepped into his office. He noticed a white envelope on his desk with his name handwritten on it. The writing looked familiar and he hesitated for a second before opening it. Inside was a single bullet and a note that read, <i>"I didn't forget about you just because I went after him."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
There was a soft knock before JJ stuck her head in the door. His back was to her and he didn't notice her enter.<br />
<br />
"We've got a case. Hotch wants us in the conference room."<br />
<br />
His mind was elsewhere, eyes still studying the letter and the bullet held tightly in his hand.<br />
<br />
"Morgan. Morgan? Are you okay?"<br />
<br />
"Uh…yeah…fine…I'll be right there."<br />
<br />
He shoved the bullet in his pocket and quickly folded the letter before turning. She looked at him puzzled after all she was a profiler now…just like him and contrary to what he said he was not okay.<br />
<br />
<b>Meanwhile…</b><br />
The D.C. police were on the scene of a brutal murder. A homeless woman had stumbled upon the bodies of a male and female while on her early morning scavenger hunt. The man had been shot at close range in the face and the woman had been stabbed multiple times in the face and chest. The CSI's noticed a tan line around the woman's wrist… her watch was missing. The detectives on the scene assumed that the woman who had discovered the bodies may have added the watch to her collection of fines to which she vehemently denied and after several minutes of harassing the poor woman they let her go on her way.<br />
<br />
<b>BAU - </b><br />
The team was headed to Boise, Idaho to investigate the murder of three young women. Morgan had not mentioned his latest letter to anyone including Garcia; he didn't want her worrying about him, especially since he was leaving on a new case. He knew that she worried enough about him and the rest of the team until they returned safely. He was just going to treat this like a part of whatever sick joke someone was playing.<br />
<br />
As the team was leaving Garcia stopped JJ in the hallway and pulled her back to the conference room.<br />
<br />
"JJ, I need a favor."<br />
<br />
"Sure. What is it?"<br />
<br />
"Can you keep an eye out for my man while you're gone?"<br />
<br />
"Sure? What's going on?"<br />
<br />
"Please, he'll kill me if he finds out I told you but…"<br />
<br />
"What is it, Garcia?"<br />
<br />
"Derek received a letter from Foyet."<br />
<br />
"Garcia, Foyet is dead…"<br />
<br />
"I know he's dead, JJ…but I'm telling you, he got a letter! It was mixed in with his mail!"<br />
<br />
JJ looked at her friend and saw the fear in her eyes. Even now Foyet had the power to strike terror in her team. He'd done serious irreparable damage and even now his control was undeniable.<br />
<br />
"It's got to be a joke…How is this possible?"<br />
<br />
"Hell if I know but I'm afraid he's going to be distracted and he can't afford to be distracted in the field when you guys are out there chasing baddies…JJ please I don't want his mind on this when he should be thinking about the…"<br />
<br />
"Garcia, Garcia, calm down. I will watch out for him, okay? Besides, we always have each other's backs out there. This will be no different."<br />
<br />
"Okay, okay, thanks, JJ." Garcia exhaled.<br />
<br />
The two women embraced quickly and JJ rushed off to catch up with the rest of the team.<br />
<br />
<b>Boise, Idaho - Evening</b><br />
Detective Jeremy Cantor greeted the team with a tired smile as they entered the small precinct. After introductions and handshakes he led them to a conference room that had been set up for their use. Each of them took a seat around the large table ready to work.<br />
<br />
"What do we have, Dectective?" Hotch began.<br />
<br />
"We have three young women who's bodies were discovered in an abandoned warehouse just north of here in our industrial district."<br />
<br />
The detective handed them each a brown case file to study. As they reviewed the files, the detective continued.<br />
<br />
"Each woman was found with their hands and feet bound with duct tape. Our first victim, Heather Sims, 19 was blindfolded. Our second victim, Michelle Worthy, 20 had her ears stuffed with paper and covered in some sort of plaster type substance. Our last victim, Chrissy Vega, 18 was gagged."<br />
<br />
"What was the cause of death?" Rossi asked.<br />
<br />
"Each victim's throat was slashed."<br />
<br />
"They bled to death." Reid added.<br />
<br />
<i>"See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil."</i> Morgan thought out loud. "Our UnSub was definitely sending a message."<br />
<br />
"No sign of sexual assault and no signs of any other trauma to the bodies." Alex surmised. "Could we be dealing with a woman?"<br />
<br />
"Maybe. She obviously knew them or was not perceived as a threat by these victims." Hotch noted. "Let's get Garcia on this. See if these victims knew each other."<br />
<br />
"On it." Morgan answered.<br />
<br />
"We need to speak to the families of these women. Maybe they can tell us something that can give us a clue about why these women were killed." Said Hotch.<br />
<br />
The team was set to leave and visit the families of the victims when a young police officer approached Morgan and JJ.<br />
<br />
"Are you agent Morgan?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. I'm Agent Morgan."<br />
<br />
"This was delivered for you."<br />
<br />
Morgan looked at the white envelope in the officer's hand, the familiar writing, his name written across the front and no postage.<br />
<br />
"Agent?" Still holding the envelope looking questioningly at him. "Agent Morgan?"<br />
<br />
"Thank you."<br />
<br />
JJ looked at Morgan then the envelope and finally the officer. He seemed stunned almost frozen as he slowly took the envelope from her hand.<br />
<br />
"Morgan."<br />
<br />
He turned it over and slid his index finger under the seal and opened the envelope.<br />
<br />
"Morgan, what is it?"<br />
<br />
He removed the letter carefully unfolding it staring at the message oblivious to the concerned stare of his partner.<br />
<br />
<i>"This time you will be awake!"</i><br />
<br />
"Nothing. Let's go."<br />
<br />
Morgan crumpled the paper and threw it in the trash on the way out. JJ puzzled glanced at the discarded paper as she followed him through the door.<br />
<br />
<b>Home of Heather Sims</b><br />
Morgan and JJ were ushered into the den by Heather's father, Harry Sims. He'd been crying it was evident by his blood shot eyes. JJ smelled alcohol on his breath and it was obvious that he'd been drinking for a while.<br />
<br />
Heather was all he had left in the world. His wife had passed from cancer three months prior and he hadn't even begun to grieve that loss before suffering another devastating blow.<br />
<br />
"Mr. Sims, we're sorry for your loss…" JJ began. "We know these are tough times but we need to ask you a few questions."<br />
<br />
"Heather was all I had left. Who would do such a thing? She was just a girl." His voice broke.<br />
<br />
"Mr. Sims do you know of anyone who would want to hurt Heather?"<br />
<br />
"No. no one. She was a good girl."<br />
<br />
"Do the names Michelle Worthy and Chrissy Vega sound familiar?" JJ asked.<br />
<br />
"Yes. They were friends of Heather's. They grew up together. Why?"<br />
<br />
"Their bodies were found with Heather's. All three of them died in the same way." Morgan said.<br />
<br />
Harry Sims closed his eyes trying hard not to cry any more tears; he'd cried enough for a lifetime, there were no more left. None at all.<br />
<br />
<b>Police Station - Later</b><br />
The team had gathered in the conference room to review the case and all of the families stories were consistent. The three victims had been childhood friends and were nearly inseparable. None of them had any known enemies. As the team continued to debrief, Garcia called with new information.<br />
<br />
"Hello my Dreamy Super Agents!"<br />
<br />
"Please tell me you have something, Gorgeous!"<br />
<br />
"Would I bother you otherwise, my Chocolate Hunk of Burning Love?"<br />
<br />
The team simultaneously rolled their eyes and shook their heads.<br />
<br />
"I found something quite interesting. It seems that two years ago when the three where in high school there was an incident on campus where a fellow student, a Wanda Perkins, was caught cheating on her SAT's and lost an early admittance to Yale. When her school found out she was not allowed to participate in graduation and was the target of a lot of teasing and ridicule by her fellow classmates."<br />
<br />
"So what does that have to do with the case?" Alex asked.<br />
<br />
"Hold on to your seats. I'm bringing it home. All three of our victims scored in the high 1400's on their SAT's and went on to institutions of higher learning with scholarships to boot."<br />
<br />
"You think the four may have been involved in a cheating scam and Wanda was the only one that was caught?" Reid said.<br />
<br />
"Where's Wanda now, Garcia?" Hotch waited for a reply.<br />
<br />
Garcia began typing furiously while the others waited.<br />
<br />
"Oh…"<br />
<br />
"What Garcia?"<br />
<br />
"Wanda Perkins committed suicide two weeks after graduation. Her twelve year-old brother found her hanging from a noose in the family's garage."<br />
<br />
"If these girls were involved in something. Why kill them now? Two years is a long time to stew."<br />
<br />
"Wanda killed herself on her 18th birthday. Our victims were killed on what would have been her 20th birthday."<br />
<br />
"Why didn't any of the families mention this?" JJ asked.<br />
<br />
"Apparently none of the victims were implicated. Wanda never mentioned anyone else. School authorities assumed it was just her."<br />
<br />
"Well someone knew about the others. The question is, who?" Hotch added. Morgan you and JJ go talk to the Perkins family. Garcia, keep digging."<br />
<br />
"Aye, aye Captain. Garcia out."<br />
*********************************<br />
"I'm worried about you Derek."<br />
<br />
Derek was hoping for a quiet ride to the Perkin's home. No such luck, he knew JJ wasn't easily fooled.<br />
<br />
"It's nothing."<br />
<br />
"Look Derek, something's is obviously wrong. I'm your partner and I need you on top of your game. Our lives depend in it."<br />
<br />
"JJ, when have I not been on top of my game?"<br />
<br />
"Never…but I don't want you starting now. Look, Derek we're more than partners, friends…we're family. If you need to talk, I'm here."<br />
<br />
"Yeah. I know you are."<br />
<br />
<b>Perkins' Home - </b><br />
The interior of the Perkins' home was a shrine to their deceased daughter. Trophies, awards and ribbons covered the walls and fireplace mantle. The atmosphere was heavy, stagnant and it was as if the family had stopped in time the day Wanda died. <br />
<br />
"Mr. and Mrs. Perkins were sorry to bother you. We know it's still a difficult time for you and your family but we have a few questions." Morgan began.<br />
<br />
The Perkins sat quietly and sullen before the agents.<br />
<br />
"Did your daughter know Heather Sims, Michelle Worthy or Chrissy Vega?" Morgan continued.<br />
<br />
At the mention of the three dead girls' names the Perkins showed the first real emotion since Morgan and JJ had arrived. Anger flashed in their eyes and Mr. Perkins jumped from his seat and began pacing clinching his fist in an effort to stay calm enough to speak.<br />
<br />
"Those girls ruined my daughter's life!" He answered angrily.<br />
<br />
"Ron, please!"<br />
<br />
"It's true Marilyn and you know it!"<br />
<br />
Ron Perkins still had not come to terms with his daughter's suicide and clearly blamed the dead girls. His wife had taken it upon herself to pull the family along through their grief but it was obvious she was struggling too.<br />
<br />
"Agents, my daughter was a very bright girl and she was headed to Yale when…"<br />
<br />
"Those girls…those degenerates…talked her into some hair brained scheme to score high on the SAT's!" Ron interrupted.<br />
<br />
"Why weren't the other girls punished with Wanda?" JJ asked.<br />
<br />
"All the girls took the test at separate locations. Wanda answered every question except one correctly. It sent up a red flag and the administrators began an investigation." Marilyn said. "The other girls scored high but not high enough that would cause anyone to get suspicious."<br />
<br />
"Wanda was a perfectionist. She had to be perfect. She'd never gotten anything lower than an, "A" in her life! When the chance came to ace that SAT she couldn't help herself." Ron added.<br />
<br />
"Why didn't she tell on the others?" Morgan asked.<br />
<br />
"They were her friends. Our daughter was no snitch, agent!"<br />
<br />
"Those girls stood by while our daughter was punished, ridiculed and shamed. They didn't stand up for her or protect her. They stopped calling her and hanging out with her…she lost everything…it destroyed her!" Marilyn said sadly.<br />
<br />
"We understand that her body was found by your son, Raymond. How is he handling all of this?" JJ inquired.<br />
<br />
"How do you think? He was twelve years old for god's sake! No twelve year old should see anything like that!"<br />
<br />
"Mrs. Perkins, did your son know about the other girls cheating?"<br />
<br />
"I don't know. Maybe. He and his sister were awfully close."<br />
<br />
"We're going to need to speak to him." Morgan informed them. "Is he home?"<br />
<br />
"Yes. He's in his room. He's always in his room."<br />
<br />
Marilyn Perkins led the two agents to her son's room. Leaning her head toward the door she knocked lightly.<br />
<br />
"Raymond. These agents need to speak with you."<br />
<br />
There was no answer. Morgan and JJ exchanged glances.<br />
<br />
"Raymond honey, open the door please."<br />
<br />
Morgan opened the door. The room was empty but the window was wide open the obvious escape route of a son that was not in the mood for conversation.<br />
<br />
A loud heavy thud sounded from the garage side of the home. The four looked at each other had rushed toward the kitchen door that led into the garage. The screams of Mrs. Perkins pierced the silence of the dimly lit room as they were shocked by the sight of the dangling body of Raymond Perkins. Morgan and JJ rushed to the jerking body of the fourteen year old. Morgan quickly grabbed his legs and lifted him relieving the strain around his neck. Ron Perkins grabbed the ladder that was laying on its side beneath his son. JJ climbed the ladder and cut the rope freeing the boy's limp body as it fell in his father's arms.<br />
<br />
<b>Jet - Next Morning</b><br />
The team had closed the case and were headed home. Young Raymond Perkins had lured the three young women to there deaths and killed them in a symbolic way to punish them for the part he felt they had played in his sister's demise. The Perkins family had lost another child and it was hard to find the win in the closing of this case. <br />
<br />
Morgan was anxious to see Garcia and to enjoy the next few days off. He hadn't thought much about the letters in the last few hours and he hoped that whoever had begun the prank had gotten their laugh and moved on.<br />
<br />
As usual Garcia was there to greet the team as they stepped off the elevator. They smiled at each other as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders and walked into the bullpen. Fatigue written on each of their faces and worn on there bodies they all drug themselves to their desks to drop off files and wrap things up before heading home.<br />
<br />
<b>Home of Derek Morgan - later</b><br />
Derek pulled into their driveway. It was good to be home especially with the next two days off. The two walked up the walkway toward the front door. There was a small box sitting on the porch and Derek placed his hand in front of Penelope stopping her from going further.<br />
<br />
"Wait here."<br />
<br />
"Derek?"<br />
<br />
"Just stay here."<br />
<br />
She stayed put watching him carefully approach the box. Noticing the familiar writing he assumed that someone still wanted to play games.<br />
<br />
"What is it?"<br />
<br />
He ignored her question slowly picking up the box and examining it closely for wires. It passed his scrutiny and so he opened the box. Inside was a pair of worn black-rimmed glasses and a note, that read:<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"How many of them do I have to kill before you stop me?"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>Meanwhile…</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
The D.C. Police had been called to the scene of a gruesome murder. The bodies of a middle-aged couple were found at a bus stop. The man had been shot in the chest at close range and the woman had been shot point blank between the eyes and stabbed in the heart. The officers recovered their I.D.'s, Mr. Robert and Sarah Cravitts had been out on a leisurely stroll after dinner at a nearby restaurant. Mr. Cravits was wearing two watches; one was obviously a woman's. His driver's license picture showed him wearing black-rimmed glasses…they were missing. And if that weren't creepy enough the killer had used the victims blood to draw an eye with a line going through it on the ground in front of the dead couple.<br />
<br />
Detective Artie Purchase had never seen anything like it; it was the second similar case in as many days. Pulling his phone from his pocket while staring at the grisly scene before him he dialed Aaron Hotchner at the FBI's Behavioral Analyst Unit. He needed help and he needed it now.<br />
<br />
<b>To be continued...</b><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-39286420673395623902014-03-28T15:35:00.000-07:002014-03-31T13:19:16.657-07:00No Place Like Home<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Derek asks Penelope a very special question…</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>**************************</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Move in with me."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek's words still rang in her ears as Garcia sat trying to focus on the latest case.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Move in here..with me."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She'd dreamt of hearing those words and now that he'd finally spoken them she was speechless. She saw the puzzled look on his face when she didn't jump at the offer. This is what she wanted, right?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">********************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BAU Headquarters, Quantico, VA - Morning </span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The team sat in the conference room examining files of the case that had required their presence at an ungodly hour. It had been a while since they'd been called in so early and especially for a local case. Their last case had ended less than eight hours ago and each of them seemed drained and exhausted; what little sleep they had only served to tease them of what they craved but could not have. So, deliriously tired they struggled to listen as Hotch outlined the latest nightmare.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Local PD has found the bodies of three men in an alley in downtown D.C." He began. "There were no signs of sexual assault and no signs of a struggle."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The pictures of the three victims were displayed on the board next to Hotch. Each man was propped against the alley wall with their eyes closed, peaceful as if they had only fallen asleep.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"No signs of robbery, no signs of a struggle…maybe they knew their attacker?" Morgan suggested.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"What were these men doing in this alley?" Rossi added.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Look at their clothes. They look like they may have been homeless." Reid said.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"There's no stress." Alex noted as she looked closely at the pictures.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"What?" JJ asked.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"They look so…so…peaceful. There's no signs of shock or tension in their body. It just seems as if they fell asleep." Alex explained.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"You're right." Hotch agreed. "Reid, you and Alex go to the Coroner's office. The bodies should be there by now. Morgan and Rossi, head to the crime scene and JJ come with me, we'll canvass the area around the scene." Hotch ordered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">**************************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupQUVAMCif09PRx0krqWT_mNizQFMRsMGo5OqgFNIi2919W-Tp2sLIbD7bY20YmhYWVSOqZ0VVOXxCpvJc5aUzAoSuo6Li_O11RNN7OZb0KbNTOj1gY2MlDegZXA2cxhBFEZUBEb6G2xs/s1600/Screenshot+2014-03-29+21.28.15.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhupQUVAMCif09PRx0krqWT_mNizQFMRsMGo5OqgFNIi2919W-Tp2sLIbD7bY20YmhYWVSOqZ0VVOXxCpvJc5aUzAoSuo6Li_O11RNN7OZb0KbNTOj1gY2MlDegZXA2cxhBFEZUBEb6G2xs/s1600/Screenshot+2014-03-29+21.28.15.png" height="182" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It struck Morgan odd at how peaceful and normal the streets seemed as they arrived to begin their investigation. People coming and going with no clue that three people had been murdered mere steps from where they now hurried about their business. While on the way to the crime scene, Garcia had learned the identification of the victims; Marc Taylor 45, Irving Johnson 29 and Eduardo Espinoza 53. All the men were homeless veterans who had fallen on hard times.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The crime scene was unremarkable a typical alley. Morgan and Rossi confirmed that indeed there had been no signs of a struggle which meant that the victims knew their attacker or they were killed somewhere else and dumped in the alley or perhaps, both.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Three veterans, willing to fight for their country, no doubt saw some action and this is all their country can offer them is a dirty alley to die in. Somehow it just doesn't seem right." Rossi muttered to himself sadly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I hear you. Nobody should die like this; especially a veteran." Morgan added looking concerned at his friend. " You okay, Rossi?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"No! Not at all. Not at all." Rossi turned and walked out of the alley toward the SUV.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">**************************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hartman McLemore wasn't a wealthy man but what he had he worked hard for. He had a special place in his heart for the homeless citizens of D.C. He knew all too well what it felt like to be homeless. He watched as the needy of the nation's capital were treated as if they were invisible; stepped over and ignored by the people rushing blindly by each day and night as if they didn't see the countless men, women and children huddled in doorways or hiding in the cloak of darkness in the city's alleys and abandoned buildings. Hartman had spent five years on the streets of D.C. shortly after coming back from his third tour of Afghanistan. He was suffering from PTSD and everyone was eager to dismiss him as some worthless drunk who couldn't take care of himself. His family had grown tired of his binges and nightmares and his status as a veteran had not helped him find work. He served his purpose and now he'd been thrown out like the rest of the men he'd seen on the the streets, invisible, disregarded by the good citizens of their nation's capital.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, he ran a food bank and on Friday nights he fed over 100 people a hot meal. He'd been able to clean himself up and get a job but he knew he was one of the fortunate ones. His earnings as a butcher at a local market wasn't much but he was willing to give what he had to help those less fortunate. When he heard of the recent murders of the three homeless men he was overcome with grief; they didn't deserve this, not at all…</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">****************************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hotch and JJ joined Morgan and Rossi at the mouth of the alley where the three bodies were found. Neither of the two groups had found anything that would lead them to a break in the case.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Nobody saw a thing." Hotch said.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yeah. there's nothing here that seems out of place either." Morgan added.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Just three dead vets. If that's not out of place then I don't know what is." Rossi added bitterly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Come on Rossi. I didn't mean…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rossi walked away toward the SUV before Morgan could finish his sentence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Is he alright?" Hotch asked concerned.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"You know how he gets when it comes to our vets. He's upset." Morgan answered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Who would want to kill three homeless men? What's the motive?" JJ asked to no one in particular.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"We could be dealing with a housecleaner." Morgan piped up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Ridding the city of what they believe to be dirty, worthless." Hotch added. "Let's head back. Reid and Alex should be back from the coroner's by now."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The ride back started quietly, Rossi was still upset by what he saw in the alley. Morgan didn't press him to talk about his feelings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Look, Morgan, I'm sorry about what I said back at the crime scene."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"You don't owe me an apology Rossi. I get it." Morgan interrupted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I asked Garcia to move in with me last night." Morgan said changing the subject.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Well, congratulations!" Rossi welcomed the change in subject. "She must have been thrilled."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan kept driving not responding his jaw tightened as he kept his gaze straight ahead. Rossi sensed something off.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"She was thrilled, right?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I don't know."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"What do you mean?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"She didn't answer me, Rossi! She just jumped up and bolted. I didn't know what to say or think."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Well, have you talked to her?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"No. I haven't seen her or talked to her since she left my house around ten last night."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I know you Derek. Did you call her?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yes, I called her! She wouldn't take the call. It just went to voice mail."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Give her time. She loves you. You probably caught her off guard she'll come around."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I don't know. I think she's having second thoughts about us. Things have been kind of crazy these last few months."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Come on."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"No. I'm serious. She's probably come to her senses, man. I mean really, what woman in her right mind would sign up for all of this?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Give her some credit. She knows exactly what she's signed up for and she's not going any where."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The two men rode the last few minutes back in silence. Rossi felt another hair turn gray and swore that Morgan and Garcia were responsible for at least ten of his newest grays. Those two were hopeless and he wanted to wring both of their necks and put himself out of his misery.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BAU Headquarters…Conference Room…</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>
"The Coroner says all three men had high levels of cocaine in their system." Reid began.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Cocaine? Where would three homeless men get the money to buy cocaine?" Rossi shouted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"The Coroner says there were no signs of injection and their was no trace around their noses indicating that they had snorted it." Alex added.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"It doesn't make sense. How did it get in their system?" JJ asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"The Coroner believes it was given to them in their food." Alex said.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hotch placed a call to Garcia.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Garcia. What else have you found on our three victims?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I was just about to buzz you my Fearless Leader. It looks like all three men were regulars at the Craven Street Shelter."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"That would make sense. The Coroner said that all three men had the exact same stomach content; remnants of beef, carrots and potatoes." Reid chimed in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Remind me not to order the Beef Stew special in the cafeteria." Morgan mumbled under his breath.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Morgan…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"On it."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Rossi go with him."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The two agents headed to the Craven Street Shelter to question the director. Rossi had seemed a little calmer as they approached the worn building two blocks from the crime scene. The pair were greeted by a heavy set graying woman of about sixty. Her light gray eyes examined the two suspiciously until she was satisfied that their credentials where in order.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Abigail Witherspoon had been running the shelter for twenty years and was fiercely protective of the people who came through her doors. She was unimpressed by the agents interests in the murders and was reluctant to answer their questions. Why didn't the government send agents to investigate why thousands of people found their homes amongst the garbage and in the doorways of buildings? Why were these unfortunates pushed out of the heavy traffic and tourists areas? It just seemed ludicrous to her now that these men's lives didn't matter until they were dead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yeah, I know them. They were regulars here. Good men! Veterans! Look what they got for it!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"We're sorry for your loss. You seem quite attached to the folks that come here." Rossi surmised.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Somebody should care about these people. Most of them served in battle for this ungrateful country!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Both men became uncomfortable at the woman's rants.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Um, ma'am…according to our coroner's report all three men had beef stew as their last meal. What was on the menu here last night?" Morgan asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"What are you trying to say? That I killed these men? That would make it real easy for you wouldn't it!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"We're not trying to say anything. We just want to find out what happened to these men." Rossi insisted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I was under the weather last night. the guy who runs the kitchen on the weekend can tell you."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"We'll need to talk to him." Rossi said.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"He's not here. He works down at the Third Street Market during the day."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The two agents stood and headed toward the door. Morgan fished a business card from his wallet and handed it to the woman.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Thank you for your time, Ma'am. If you think of anything else please give us a call."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The woman took the card without responding and watched the two men leave.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Third Street Market -</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hartman McLemore was is in the back wielding a large cleaver, hacking away at a fresh side of beef. He heard voices up front and saw the two men hold up gold badges and I.D. for the store manager's approval. His heart stopped he knew why they had come and he wasn't going to get caught and he damn sure wasn't going to jail.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Sure he's in the back working." Said the manager puzzled.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"We need to talk to him. Now." Rossi said impatiently.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just then the sound of the back door slamming shut was heard that startled the manager and agents.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Is there another way out besides the front?" Morgan asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Uh, yeah. The side door. There."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The manager pointed toward a door to the left of them about one hundred yards away.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Rossi, take the back door. I'll go this way."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan headed out the side door where the manager had just indicated and Rossi headed toward the butcher shop behind the counter. Morgan nearly collided with McLemore rounding the corner of the building like a mad man. Morgan grabbed the man and slung him violently to the ground where he crashed face first.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"FBI! Don't move!" Morgan yelled.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rossi crashed through the back door and ran up to Morgan just as he was cuffing McLemore who was laying face down sweating and out of breath on the alley floor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Let me guess, you were just coming out to take a break. Am I right?" Rossi asked sarcastically.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I didn't do nothing! I didn't do nothing!" McLemore yelled frantically.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Why'd you run?" Morgan huffed pulling the man to his feet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Maybe he thought we were food critics." Rossi answered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan looked at Rossi and shook his head and the three walked out of the alley toward the SUV.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Downtown Police Precinct - A few minutes later...</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>
Since Morgan and Rossi had apprehended McLemore Hotch allowed the two agents to interrogate him. Rossi took the lead as Morgan watched standing behind Rossi near the door. As usual this suspect pleaded his innocence. He didn't see the errors of his ways and was puzzled as to why he had been brought in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Hartman McLemore." Rossi began taking a seat across from the nervous suspect. "You served two tours in Iraq it says here." Rossi thumbed through the pages of the file on the table.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"That's right. So what?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Seems like you had a bit of trouble adjusting when you got back."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I did alright."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I see. Went to the community college learned a trade, got a job as a butcher at the Third Street Market."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Why am I here?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Three men were found dead in an alley not too far from the shelter where you volunteer as a cook."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yeah. I heard about it on the news."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"They'd all eaten at the shelter, Hartman! They'd eaten the beef stew that you cooked!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rossi was steaming and Derek moved a little closer just in case things got out of hand. Hartman shot a quick glance at Morgan and then to Rossi.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Look, I don't know what you're trying to say…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I'm saying that you killed three innocent men who made the fatal mistake of eating your food!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Suddenly, McLemore's face turned stone cold and confident. He sat up straight and dignified in the steel rickety chair and looked Rossi dead in his eyes without blinking.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Do you know how it feels to put your life on the line for your country, agent?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yes, I do. I served in the marines!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Then how can you sit there and judge me? I gave those men something that this country, their country never gave them!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"And what was that?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Dignity! I gave them peace and an end to the the humiliating life that their country gave them. The thanks for their willingness to die or if they were lucky to be maimed so that you all can sit here on your privileged, ungrateful asses and look down on them like they were garbage when they returned!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan interrupted; he couldn't believe what he was hearing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"So you think you did these men a favor?" Morgan began pacing the room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yes agent! I lived on those streets! I was one of the lucky ones who got out but I know what it feels like to be thrown out of restaurants just because you want to use the bathroom! I know how it feels to cover yourself with garbage in the winter to keep warm! I know how it feels to knock on doors of your own flesh and blood and they ignore you and watch you from the peep hole refusing to open the door and let you in!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rossi stunned and angry stared in silence for a moment and then slammed the file closed. Morgan motioned for the officers on the other side of the glass window. Immediately two uniformed D.C. police officers entered and lead McLemore away. He seemed relieved to have told his story said his peace. Perhaps no one had given him audience before but finally, he'd been able to purge himself of years of pent up hurt and pain and he felt lighter, jittery with relief. Morgan and Rossi looked at each other in amazement and stood in the small room trying to figure it all out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I did them a favor, you know! Really! There at peace now…finally!"</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-QwrAbbZDNNPhz9xQRRVJlmpVTPWEeo91XFxO9cuiOcHu7bVow2vrwhJ2-TrtVH1jZDMcNOLErsSpB_PUE08Rp6hHfty4hWPAQh51ntp1s22sbedpi4ZyO8ODKTuwoEAHgLj17TWMz_39/s1600/Screenshot+2014-03-29+14.59.14.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-QwrAbbZDNNPhz9xQRRVJlmpVTPWEeo91XFxO9cuiOcHu7bVow2vrwhJ2-TrtVH1jZDMcNOLErsSpB_PUE08Rp6hHfty4hWPAQh51ntp1s22sbedpi4ZyO8ODKTuwoEAHgLj17TWMz_39/s1600/Screenshot+2014-03-29+14.59.14.png" height="209" width="320" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BAU Headquarters - 2 Hours later…</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Garcia checked her watch again; the team should have been back by now. She knew it would take them a little while to finish up the paperwork for the locals so she expected to have heard from at least one of them by now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On cue there was a knock at her door and she jumped to her feet. She hadn't talked to Morgan all day except for business related calls. They had a lot to talk about.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">JJ poked her head in the door and for a second saw disappointment in her friend's eyes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Hey, JJ, I-I...your back!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yeah, uh we just got back…you okay? You look a little disappointed."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"No, no, I'm glad you're back, really." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Let me guess, you were expecting Morgan."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"No…yes…oh JJ…" Garcia couldn't help but ramble.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Garcia, what's going on?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Morgan asked me to move in with him last night."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Garcia, congratulations! That's good…right?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yes! I-he…we had just…and then out of the blue…he..."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Whoa! Slow down! Start from the beginning!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">JJ led Garcia back to her chair and she sat in another nearby ready to listen to her hysterical friend.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I love Derek. He's my Prince. I never thought we'd be together. Now we are and everyday I keep thinking I'm going to wake up and all of it will have been a dream."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Penelope, Derek loves you! He's loved you for a long time. You've made him a better man and I'm sure he'd be the first to admit that."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Thank you. I know he loves me…it still doesn't seem real but I know he loves me. Just hearing him ask me to move in made me panic and I bolted."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Bolted?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yeah. I jumped out of bed and ran out of there like a bat. I haven't talked to him since."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">JJ shook her head and tried to figure out what to say to her hopeless friend.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Look Pen, you need to talk to him. He's probably thinking the worse, you know how he is."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Yeah. I don't know what to say. He's probably so mad at me."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Just be honest. If you don't want to move in with him then tell him. He'll understand he doesn't want you to do anything that you don't want to do."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"That's just it, JJ I do want to move in; more than anything in the world! I've dreamt of sharing a place with him…I just didn't think it would happen. I panicked and you know what happens when I panic! I do something stupid! I think I really messed up this time!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Calm down, just talk to him!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*************************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan had made no attempt to see Garcia when Rossi and he had returned. He struggled to keep his mind on the case report in front of him. He didn't want to think about her reaction when he'd asked her to move in with him. He thought it would make her happy even though he'd asked on impulse he still meant it. He'd been thinking about it every since they'd gotten together but he didn't want to rush her. Now he felt like a fool wanting to take their relationship to the next level, something she obviously did not want. He'd avoided her all day talking to her only when it related to the case. He didn't want to hear her confess that she'd decided that them being together wasn't a good idea.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There was a knock on his door and he looked up just as Garcia poked her head in the door.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Hey, I didn't know you were back."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I got back a while ago." He answered going back to his report.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"You didn't tell me you were back…you always tell me when you get back."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I wanted to get started on these reports."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Garcia walked over to his desk and gently closed the file in front of him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Are you mad at me?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan exhaled and slowly looked up at her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"No, Garcia, I'm not mad at you…just busy." He said grabbing the report and opening it again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Can we talk? She said meekly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Not right now. I really need to finish this. Later, okay?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Oh, okay…later."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Garcia stared at him as he continued to write and refusing to look at her. She fought the tears threatening to reveal themselves on her face. No matter how he tried to seem uninterested she could see the hurt in his eyes and in his body language. Without another word she left his office and headed back to her lair.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Home of Derek Morgan - Much later</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The smell of pasta sauce greeted Morgan when he opened his front door. There were sounds coming from his kitchen and if it hadn't been for Clooney's calm disposition he would have pulled his service revolver. He leaned down to pet the puppy and nearly tripped over a familiar flower printed suitcase.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Penelope?" He called out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"In the kitchen!" She answered cheerfully.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan rounded the corner and stopped in the doorway of the kitchen. Penelope was at the stove hovering over a steaming skillet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"What's going on?" He said taking a step into the room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I thought I'd cook. Pasta okay?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Sure. I just wasn't expecting to see you tonight."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Why not? This is a special occasion."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Did I miss something? What are we celebrating?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Our official first night as roomies!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan turned and looked toward the door remembering the flowered suitcase.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Is that why…I thought you didn't…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Garcia turned and closed the gap between them wrapping her arms around his neck. Smiling she looked longingly into his eyes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I'm sorry I freaked out on you last night." She said softly planting a soft kiss on his lips.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He returned the kiss still confused as to the turn of events.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Are you sure?" He asked pulling her close to him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I'm positive. I've always wanted it I just didn't think it would ever happen. I'm sorry for hur…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He kissed her stopping her rambling apology. It didn't matter why it only mattered that she was here in his kitchen…their kitchen making him dinner and looking like heaven on earth. Only because it was necessary to breathe he pulled away still looking into her eyes with the biggest smile she'd ever seen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"So, what's for dinner?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Spaghetti and homemade meatballs." She said proudly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Homemade? Since when?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Since I called Rossi and he walked me through it."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Rossi…so he can keep a secret, well..Okay."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Hungry?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Starved!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Good. The meatballs are ready. I just need to cook the pasta. 10 minutes and we'll be ready to eat…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Again he interrupted her. He wasn't much in the mood for talking. He was starving, true and the smell of homemade meatballs was incredible but he had a taste for something quite different. He kissed her again pulling her even closer to him. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Can dinner wait for a while?" He asked her with a mischievous glint in his eyes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I thought you were hungry?' She asked curiously.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"I am." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He planted a kiss on her lips again and for a moment she thought she heard fireworks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Welcome home, Baby Girl."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*************************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">“Happiness doesn't lie in conspicuous consumption and the relentless amassing of useless crap. Happiness lies in the person sitting beside you and your ability to talk to them. Happiness is clear-headed human interaction and empathy. Happiness is home. And home is not a house-home is a mythological conceit. It is a state of mind. A place of communion and unconditional love. It is where, when you cross its threshold, you finally feel at peace.” </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">― </span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10289.Dennis_Lehane" style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: black;">Dennis Lehane</span></a></span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-36346069113285248502014-03-20T02:49:00.001-07:002014-04-05T09:45:06.887-07:00Nightmares, Apologies and Things to Come<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Derek thought that his cousin Cindi's nightmare was over, but when he is called home for a family emergency he realizes that his nightmare has just begun.</span></i></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*******************</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDI2YpQLiqHgriZBayRier26-aRzgio3RR_rXyaSPl93IXEKHIWkj0VyFMRsbu5UcZ6sNltUO6AeyqAKxBiCJeXMhTYn6zdPnOnycSu_wWlU0F59hXea2c2wko2rYLkpt7KIWKr1ZeZQq/s1600/Screenshot+2014-03-18+12.22.04.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDI2YpQLiqHgriZBayRier26-aRzgio3RR_rXyaSPl93IXEKHIWkj0VyFMRsbu5UcZ6sNltUO6AeyqAKxBiCJeXMhTYn6zdPnOnycSu_wWlU0F59hXea2c2wko2rYLkpt7KIWKr1ZeZQq/s1600/Screenshot+2014-03-18+12.22.04.png" height="222" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i><span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">Now I believe I can hear the philosophers protesting that it can only be misery to live in folly, illusion,
deception and ignorance, but it isn't -it's human.- Desiderius Erasmus</span><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"Did something happen to my mom?" Derek whispered into the phone.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">He wasn't accustomed to getting calls from Chicago at 2 a.m. unless something was wrong. He definitely wasn't used to getting calls from Stan Gordinski at any hour of the day. Derek sat up in bed, heart beating furiously in his chest waiting for the bad news.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"No. No it's not your mom. She's just fine." Stan answered quickly.</span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"You do know it's two o'clock in the morning, right?"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yes. I know what time it is and I'm sorry to have to call you but…"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"But what?" Derek began to panic all over again. "Is it Sarah? Des?"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No. It's Anthony... he's missing!" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">It was silent for a moment while Derek struggled to process what he had just heard. Penelope began to stir next to him so he carefully eased himself out of bed and headed out of the room.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"What do you mean he's missing?"</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"Your cousin said that she was having trouble sleeping so she got up to make herself a cup of tea. On her way to the kitchen she looked in his bedroom and he wasn't there."</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"Any signs of forced entry?"</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"No. Nothing." Stan began. "I got the call about twenty minutes ago and I have men on the scene now. I know time is of the essence in a child abduction so I thought…"</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"I understand. Thanks Gordinski."</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"I've already placed a call to Hotchner. I'm inviting the BAU in on the case."</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Thanks. I'll see you shortly." Derek ended the call just as his phone sounded alerting him of a new case.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Derek stepped back into the bedroom to see Garcia already awake and headed to the bathroom.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"You got the call too I see." She said sleepily.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yeah."</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Wait. Why are you already up?" </span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">She saw a distant troubled look in his eyes and she knew something was wrong. His look stopped her in her tracks.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Anthony is missing."</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Oh my God, Derek! Baby…" She reached out for his arm. "Wait. Is that the case?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yeah. Gordinski just called me…"</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Derek, you know you can't work this case! You're too close."</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Nobody's going to stop me from working this case, Garcia! Nobody!"</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Derek brushed past her and into the bathroom. She watched him in shock knowing better than to say anything more.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Jet - One Hour Later…</b></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"Detective Gordinski received a call from Derek's cousin Cindi about an hour and a half ago that her son was missing." Hotch began.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">All eyes were on Derek as he looked far away his foot tapping nervously on the floor.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"There were no signs of forced entry and Cindi says that she didn't hear anything." Hotch continued his eyes glued to Morgan.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"Hotch, you said the call came in about an hour and a half ago. That would mean that she noticed he was missing about one thirty this morning. What was she doing up so early?" Rossi asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"According to Gordinski, Cindi told the responding officers that she couldn't sleep so she got up to make herself some tea." Derek answered.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">He had seemingly come back from wherever his mind had taken him and he was ready and present working the case.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"Derek…" Hotch began.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">Derek looked at his boss with a stone cold look in his eyes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">"Hotch don't even try to tell me that I can't work this case!"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The team looked at Hotch then at Morgan and back at their boss as he seemed to decide his next move.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Morgan. Are you sure you're going to be able to handle this case?"</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I'm sure, Hotch."</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Fine but the first sign to the contrary I'm pulling you off and sending you back to Quantico."</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan looked up and shot Hotch a, "you-and-what-army" look.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>BAU Headquarters - </b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Garcia desperately wanted to be on that jet with Derek and the team. He needed her with him and the thought of him dealing with the old demons that this case would conjure up made her stomach knot up. She knew he still blamed himself for Cindi's abduction and all of the torture she'd endured for eight years; now it would begin again with her young son's life in danger.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She began working, hunting cyberspace for clues hoping to find some information that would lead them to a successful end to this case. She felt bad for delving into Morgan's family history. His cousin Cindi was the first on her list because she'd learned over the years as the team worked similar cases that the parents and especially the person who saw the victim last was always on the top of the suspect list.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There wasn't much information on Cindi Barnes and Garcia wasn't surprised. Her life had stopped for eight years and so for the last two years it was as if she had been reborn and struggling to begin a new life for herself and her son. She'd managed to find a job at a Chicago bank. After little over a year she'd been promoted from a teller to an assistant manager and seemed to be rebuilding her life. Anthony was enrolled at a public school near the small house that Cindi was renting. Garcia found no irregular bank activity or credit card purchases. She and her son seemed to live a quiet life. Garcia continued searching trying with all of her inner strength to not worry about Derek; secretly she knew it would be much easier to stop breathing than it would be to stop worrying about her man.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">Chicago Police Department - 5:30 a.m.</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stan Gordinski had met the team at the airport and driven them to the station. The distraught faces of his family met Derek as he rushed through the door. Seeing the tormented eyes of his Aunt Yvonne and Cousin Cindi pierced him deep to his core. The blame and guilt that he'd been able to control for the last two years welled up in him and he felt nauseous.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I have a large conference room in the back set up for you all." Stan said pointing toward the rear of the large precinct.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Thanks, Detective." Hotch answered as he took a deep breath and headed toward the conference room.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The rest of the team followed Gordinski and Hotch while Morgan took a detour and headed over to where his aunt and cousin were seated.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Auntie Vonne. Cindi." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yvonne stood and hugged him tightly around the neck. He felt her body shaking as she cried into his shirt. Cindi sat unresponsive on the old wooden bench staring at her feet. Derek saw the tears on her face, his heart wrenched as he tightened his grip around his aunt and closed his eyes fighting back his own tears.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For some odd reason, Morgan was momentarily drawn to the mud on his cousins worn converse tennis shoes. <i>"Maybe she just grabbed the first pair she saw." </i>He thought to himself quickly feeling ashamed for judging her choice of shoes at a time like this.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"We're going to find him. I promise." He said emotionally.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">His aunt pulled away slightly and looked him in his eyes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"You can't make that promise, Derek, Remember?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He looked away not wanting to go back to a dark place and time when he had made that promise to her.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yeah Auntie, I remember."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hotch, Gordinski, and the rest of the team looked on in worried silence as they watched Morgan and his aunt.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Let's get to work." Hotch ordered breaking into the moment.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What do we have so far?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"According to Cindi, she got up around 1:30 this morning to make herself a cup of tea and on the way to the kitchen looked into her son's room and noticed that he was not there." Gordinski began.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Does anyone else live in the home?" Rossi asked.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No one." Stan answered.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"How about boyfriends, ex-lovers…" Rossi added.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"No. Cindi and Anthony live a pretty solitary lifestyle. Pretty much stay to themselves unless they're with family as far as I know." Stan answered.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hotch pulled out his phone and dialed Garcia.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Hey boss man."</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Garcia, what have you found on Cindi Barnes?"</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Not much I'm afraid." She began. "Cindi's been working at the Chicago Mercantile Bank for the last year and a half or so. Started as a teller and just got promoted to assistant manager a few months ago. She has a checking and savings account…not a lot of money in either account…no suspicious activity there or on her credit cards."</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Thanks, Garcia."</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"I'll keep digging. Garcia out." </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">After a short while, Morgan joined the team in the conference room. Hotch was giving orders and preparing to send each out into the field.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Time is running out. We need to bring this case to a quick close sooner rather than later."</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hotch looked up to see Morgan enter the room.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Morgan I want you and Rossi to go to your cousin's house and look around."</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"On it." </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Morgan quickly turned not waiting for Rossi and headed toward the front door. Rossi quickly caught up as Derek neared the SUV.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Hotch did send us out together." Rossi barked.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Anthony's running </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">out of time, Rossi!" Morgan struggled to maintain his control.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Don't you think I know that, Derek? Look, I know this is hard but you've got to keep it together!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan climbed in and gripped the steering wheel and closed his eyes inhaling and exhaling before he spoke.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I'm sorry." Derek began. "He's just a little kid, Rossi. He's been through so much already. I've got to bring him home."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No. We have to bring him home. This isn't your fault!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Rossi…this <i>is</i> my fault…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No!" Rossi interrupted. "No! it isn't! If you take this on it will destroy you!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan, not ready to believe his partner looked helplessly at Rossi and started the SUV and headed toward the Barnes home in silence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Home of Cindi Barnes - </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The home that his cousin shared with her 9 year-old son was small, sparsely decorated and immaculate. It was odd to see a home so organized especially a home with a young energetic little boy. Derek searched the house beginning with Anthony's room. Rossi searched the perimeter surrounding the home looking for clues that may have been missed by the CSI unit that was still on the scene.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rossi approached Anthony's bedroom window and noticed something that had caught the attention of the crime scene tech. It was a foot print.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Derek smiled as he picked up the toys and carefully examined them. Things hadn't changed much since he'd been a boy; hot wheels, baseball gloves, footballs, and comic books where still the stuff that filled the closets and toy boxes of kids even in this day and age. Judging by this little boy's room he had an interest in football and crime mysteries. Derek </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">remembered his aunt mentioning Anthony's wanting to be a cop or an FBI agent when he grew up. Morgan silently prayed that he'd get a chance to see that dream come true.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So deep in thought, Morgan didn't hear Rossi enter the room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Anything?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Nothing. He likes football." He said holding up an old worn pigskin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rossi smiled as his eyes surveyed the small room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"CSI found a foot print."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Where?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Just outside this window." Rossi pointed to the room's small window.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Derek moved to the window and looked out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"CSI thinks it may belong to a woman or a teenager." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rossi had already formulated a theory in his mind but he was leery of mentioning it to Derek just yet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Derek turned to see the troubled look on Rossi's face.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What are you trying to say, Rossi?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Morgan, I'm not trying to say anything but you know how these cases work."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No way. I know you're not trying to say what I think you're trying to say."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I know this is hard but this is our job. This is family, I get it and if you can't separate the two…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I can do my job, Rossi!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Then do it!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan felt his jaw tighten as he looked at Rossi. He was right. This was their job. It was also why agents were not allowed to work cases where they had a personal interest. Morgan shook his head and let his eyes look around the room again. Then something struck him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Shoes!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What?" Rossi responded confused.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Shoes!" Morgan repeated. "Rossi, is the ground damp outside the window?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yeah it's pretty muddy."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Damn!" Morgan sat with a thud on the small twin bed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What's going on?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"My cousin had mud on her shoes…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Chicago Police Dept.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hotch had asked JJ to interview Cindi. As a mother she couldn't imagine if she were in this mother's shoes. Cindi and her son had gone through unimaginable horrors at the hands of Malcolm Ford. He'd raped and tortured her repeatedly forcing her to have his child and then using the child to control her. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Cindi, I'm not sure if you remember me from a few years ago… "</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yes. Of course. Agent Jarreau I remember you." Cindi answered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Please call me Jennifer."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Okay. Jennifer."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now the hard part began. She had some tough questions that needed answers and she had to do it in a way that didn't cause Cindi to shut down.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"When a child goes missing the first thing we do is work to illuminate the family as suspects."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I understand." Cindi said her voice shaky and nervous.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">JJ watched as Cindi sat dazed across from her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Is it normal for you to be up at one thirty in the morning?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I haven't been sleeping well lately."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What's keeping you up?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Two weeks, three days and twelve hours will be the tenth anniversary of my abduction."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">JJ watched her mood change from dazed to teary.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Every time I close my eyes I see Malcolm's face. I feel his hands around my neck. I feel the pressure of his body on top of me…forcing himself on me…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Cindi, I'm sorry…I didn't realize…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"It's okay. Look Agent Jarreau…Jennifer, I didn't hurt my son. I love him. He was my heart, my life…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No one is suggesting that you hurt your son. These are questions we have to ask."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yes. Yes. I understand."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Has Anthony mentioned any new friends, anyone, suddenly paying him a lot of attention or hanging around the house or his school?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No. No one."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Has Anthony ever run away before?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"No. Never."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Have you two been getting along okay?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"We are very close. We're all we have."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cindi broke down losing her control. JJ felt bad for the troubled woman who had worked so hard to put her life back together after her life had been interrupted by the evil intentions of a maniac. JJ had one more task and that was to get a DNA sample and to get a closer look at the mud caked shoes she was wearing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan and Rossi had returned to the precinct and joined the others in the conference room. To say that Derek was distraught would be an understatement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Let's not jump to conclusions…" Hotch began.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Hotch, she has mud on her shoes and their is a foot print outside of Anthony's room!" Morgan insisted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"She could have stepped in mud earlier in the day. Let's wait until we get the forensics</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> report back." Hotch continued.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan began pacing the room. Was he crazy to think that his cousin could hurt her own child? Had her ordeal with Ford done more damage than any of them had realized? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As the team debriefed, Morgan's phone rang and he breathed a sigh of relief to see Garcia's name on his screen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Hey Baby Girl."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Hey Handsome. How are you holding up?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"We haven't found any real leads and Anthony is running out of time."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I know but I have faith in you and the team. You'll find him. I know it."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Hold on to that, Garcia, because I'm not getting a good feeling about this at all."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As Morgan and Garcia were talking, he noticed that JJ had finished her interview with Cindi and was walking her and his Aunt to the door.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I got to go, Baby Girl." He said abruptly ending their conversation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Oh-Oh okay." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Penelope continued to do what she did best…hunting down the hidden dirt and secrets that helped her team bring down the bad guys. This time a child's life was in danger and she had to dig faster if they were going to bring Anthony home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan joined JJ and his family as they reached the door.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"JJ, tell Hotch that I'm going to drive my Aunt and cousin home."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Sure. I'll see you when you get back."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The three headed to his SUV. Once they arrived at his Aunt's home she tried desperately to convince her daughter to stay with her. Cindi refused wanting to be home in case Anthony came back.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The team was running out of ideas when Garcia called.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Hello my fellow Crime Fighters."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What you got Garcia? Alex asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I did a deeper search on Cindi. Did you know that she is using Malcolm Ford's name on all of her legal documents now?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Why would she do that? JJ asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"So she could control his assets while he's in jail." Reid answered.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Are you saying she is actually in love with this psycho?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Not necessarily. She wants what she thinks belongs to her. Eight years of being forced to be this guy's wife, bear his child and endure his torture…she wants whatever he owns as retribution." Reid added.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"You might be on to something, Reid." Hotch said.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hotch dialed Garcia again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yeah Boss!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Garcia has the lab results come back on the shoe print at the crime scene and the mud on Cindi's shoes?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Garcia began typing furiously, no doubt hacking into the crime labs computers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"The mud on Cindi's shoes seems to be a combination of two different types of mud. The lab found traces that match the mud outside the boy's window and mud from another location. The shoe print however is an exact match."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Thanks Garcia." Hotch ended the call.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Home of Cindi Barnes</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan pulled into the driveway and killed the engine just as a text from JJ appeared on his phone. It wasn't what he'd hope to find out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cindi was eerily quiet as he walked her to the door and entered the house. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Do you think you and your team will find him?" She asked as she walked the few steps toward her son's room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"We're going to do all we can to bring him home."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Do you ever blame yourself?" She said her back to him staring into the small bedroom.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Do you ever blame yourself?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I-I don't under…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"For what happened to me, I mean."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Derek's heart sunk. He'd always wondered if she blamed him, now he had his answer. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Look Cindi, I am so sorry for everything that happened to you…if I could change it I would…you know that."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"He wanted me to have his child. He wasn't going to be satisfied until I had a baby."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Cindi. I'm so sorry."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">She chuckled. The sound of her laughter seemed odd and out of place. She still had her back to him and he kept his distance processing the tragedy of her life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"The older he gets the more he looks like Malcolm; his smile, his eyes…his voice even sounds like Malcolm."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A sick feeling came over Morgan as he listened to his cousin. She chuckled again and then turned to face him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"He was born exactly a year to the day of when I was kidnapped. Now that's funny." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tears began to stream down her face as she looked through Morgan.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Cindi, did you do something to Anthony?" Dread filled him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I couldn't look at him any longer. He's a reminder that Malcolm won. He ruined my life and then made me give birth to..."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Cindi, where's Anthony?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I did him a favor you know. It's not fair to be born out of such ugliness…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Chicago Police Department</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Boss, I think I may have something!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What, Garcia?" </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Malcolm Ford owned a small farm about five miles outside of Chicago. It's been abandoned since Ford's been in jail…but that's not the kicker…the mud found on Cindi's shoes, is found in that part of the city. It contains high amounts of ammonia, as in urine from farm animals…Ford raised pigs and cows on his land until Animal Control confiscated them after Ford's incarceration."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Oh, my God! She's been behind this all along!" Alex said.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"She said, <i>'he was my heart.' "</i>JJ chimed in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What?" Reid asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"During my interview with her she said, Anthony <i>was </i>her heart. Like she knew he was already dead."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"She played us!" Rossi said angrily.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"She interjected herself into the investigation so she would know what we knew." Hotch surmised. "Garcia send us the address."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Already on your phones my Lige."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Where's Morgan? Hotch asked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"He took his aunt and Cindi home."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Call him. He could be her next target." Hotch ordered. Reid, Alex come with me to Ford's farm. Rossi you and JJ go to Cindi's house and bring her in."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The team headed out taking Gordinski and several uniformed officers to each location for back up. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Home of Cindi Barnes</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"You were supposed to protect me! Big time Chicago Police Officer! You let him snatch me in broad open daylight right under your highly trained nose!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cindi pulled a gun from her purse and aimed it at Morgan. He wasn't going to be able to talk her out of her madness. She'd been planning this for a while and nearly got a way with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Cindi put the gun down and let us get you some help."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Like you helped me ten years ago? No thanks!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Please tell me you didn't kill your son. He's just as much a victim as you are." He struggled to sound calm. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"What will your mother think when she finds out that you killed her grandson?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"She'll get over it."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan began to slowly move toward the deranged distracted woman. He should have seen this coming and perhaps he did but after all this was his fault and the last thing he wanted to do was kill her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I took him to the farm…he always loved the farm. I figured it would be kind of me to let him die there."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan could hear the cars arriving out front and so could Cindi; this wasn't going to end well if he didn't reach her before she pulled the trigger. Her eyes darted from Morgan to the door and back her hand was shaking as he slowly took another step toward her. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Cindi, don't do this. We can still fix this." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He took another step toward her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"There's nothing you can do to fix this."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He took another step he had to make his move and quickly. Suddenly the front door burst open and he grabbed her hand wrestling it away from her. JJ and Rossi ran toward them. JJ grabbed Cindi and cuffed her. Rossi stopped short of Morgan as he dropped into a nearby chair, the look of despair and helplessness made him feel numb; He didn't feel Rossi's hand on his shoulder as he just sat silently as the Crime Scene Investigators rushed through the door.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"She killed him, Rossi…her own son."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Morgan…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I can't make sense of this anymore…"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I'm sorry, Derek."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan didn't really hear a word his friend said it was just noise mixed with the hustle and bustle of the others who had begun working gathering evidence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">After several minutes, Hotch, Reid, and Alex entered the room. Morgan looked up at them briefly before looking away.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Morgan…" Hotch began.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He didn't respond. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"There's someone who wants to see you."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gordinski came through the doorway holding the hand of a very confused nine year old little boy. He was home and no doubt still wondering why his mother had driven him to the farm so early that morning and locked him in the underground cellar. He'd tried so hard to be a good boy; his mother always seemed on edge and he didn't want to make her mad but she was always mad. He made it a point to try his best to be perfect but it wasn't enough.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He slowly walked in, past Gordinski and stood next to Derek. In his grief Morgan had not noticed the boy's entrance until he felt a small hand on his shoulder.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Hi Uncle Derek."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Derek knew his mind was playing tricks on him. He slowly lifted his head and looked into the watery eyes of an innocent little boy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Anthony?" He said shocked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I'm home."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan pulled him into his arms and held onto him for dear life. He could no longer hold back his tears as his team teary-eyed looked on smiling at each other.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Yes you are. Welcome home, little man!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">***************</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Morgan was already bracing himself for the endless speeches from his family and his friends about this all not being his fault. Still, he couldn't shake the guilt and he couldn't erase the look of madness in his cousin's eyes. Most of all he knew that he would never forget the fear and confusion in little Anthony's eyes. A child should never have to witness his parent's hatred of them. This poor kid had already lived a dozen lifetimes…it wasn't fair none of it was fair…life seldom was. There was nothing more he could do but be available should Anthony or his Aunt need him. He knew Yvonne would do her best to raise him with love and patience and prayerfully it would help her to deal with her own feelings of guilt and failure. It broke his heart to see his cousin destroyed at the hands of a man that was pure evil…it wasn't fair…not fair at all and if his job taught him anything it was that life was not for wimps. Yes, it was scary, uncertain and most times uncontrollable by any human effort, but, it also held so much promise and possibilities and it was the anticipation of those possibilities and things to come that drove him and others like him to keep fighting even when it seemed as if the battle was a sure loss. Every time they saved a life it solidified his purpose and his determination to never give up. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">********************</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>"The only thing that makes life possible
is permanent, intolerable uncertainty; not knowing what comes next." - Ursula K. Le Guin<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue';"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>The End...</i></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-9536671123749602222014-03-04T23:13:00.001-08:002014-03-07T10:21:17.213-08:00Valentine's Daze<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i>Derek has made special plans for his official first Valentine's Day with Penelope. Will work and misunderstandings make them rethink their relationship?</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – Derek Morgan’s Office – Morning</span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The pile of stuffed animals, boxes of chocolate,
cards and several unmentionables, wrapped in unusually creative ways, was
growing by the hour. Morgan could remember the time when the sight of the ever
growing pile on his couch would make him chuckle as he struggled to decide who
would be the lucky fling for the evening. Now, he knew he would have a problem
explaining each and every Valentine gift to one person in particular.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Knock, Knock.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The familiar voice jerked him from his thoughts as
JJ poked her head in the door. Smiling, ready to tease the poor agent she
entered placing a rather large gift basket on his desk, right on top of the
file he’d been reviewing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sheila from Counter Terrorism caught me in the
hallway and asked if I would bring this up to you.” She smirked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks JJ.” He replied sarcastically rubbing both
hands across his head and neck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Once again, you by far are the most popular person
in the building, this year!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why do I get the impression that you are really
enjoying this, JJ?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Because I am!” She answered chuckling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan stood, grabbing the large gift and placed it
with the others. JJ watched the troubled man as she shook her head in delight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You know Garcia is going to kill you when she sees
all of this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What am I going to do? This isn’t my fault!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t know what to tell you my friend but you
better think of something quick because I just saw her pull into the parking
lot.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m dead!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan sat down with a thud and closed his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So, do you have plans for tonight?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Just before he could answer his door flew open and
a highly pissed off Penelope Garcia, Oracle of All Knowing, stood in the
doorway holding several more stuffed animals, and brightly colored boxes with
giant bows and cards dangling from them. JJ saw the wide-eyed look in her eyes
and for a brief moment she could have sworn there was steam coming from her
ears.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Without saying a word she stepped into the office
and slammed the pile of gifts on his desk. JJ placed a hand over her mouth to
stifle a laugh as she looked from Garcia to Morgan and back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“These are from, Betty in Accounting, Lori in the
Receptionist Pool, Bambi from the Director’s office and the new girl in
housekeeping! REALLY DEREK?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope! I-I- didn’t…” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He didn’t know where to start to apologize. He
hadn’t seen her this mad since he pissed her off and she decided to go out with
Battle. He looked at JJ who had turned a bright shade of red trying to hold
back her laughter. Before he could say another word, Garcia turned and left
slamming the door behind her. All that could be heard was the click clacking of
her heels as she headed to her lair, then of course the loud slamming of her door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m dead!” He repeated. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Defeated, he closed his eyes and laid his head on
the small area on his desk that wasn’t covered with gifts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia’s
Lair<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia couldn’t remember the last time she was this
mad at Derek. Oh yes she could, it was when she had gone out with Battle to
spite him after he’d pissed her off. Well, that hadn’t ended well, not well at
all. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia turned on her computers and tried to
distract herself with work but it wasn’t working. All she could think of was
those women bum rushing her in the lobby with their giddy smiles spread across
their faces and Valentine’s gifts in their hands. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How dare
they! Shoving their cheap trinkets in my arms for my man! No they didn’t!” </span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana;">She fumed.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia wasn’t sure if she was madder at Derek or
herself. She knew he loved her he had proved it more times than she could
count. God knew she had put him through hell and he had jumped through
countless of hoops trying to prove his love. But today, Valentine’s Day, had
shouted loudly to all of her insecurities. When the women had crashed head long
into her personal space it had caught her off guard. In the back of her mind
she kept wondering when he’d wake up and decide he wanted something or someone
else.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Get it
together, Garcia! He loves you!” She thought to herself.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A knock at the door pulled Garcia back to reality
and she knew exactly who it was. He cautiously poked his head in the door and
was greeted with her back as she ignored him, typing furiously on the keyboard
of one of her babies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Can we talk, Baby Girl?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She continued to type as if she had not heard him.
He knew he was in for a fight but he approached her anyway placing his hands on
her shoulders and turning her to face him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry. I didn’t know all those gifts were
coming.” He said remorsefully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, I don’t know how long I can take these
women throwing themselves at you! I’ve watched it for the last eight years but
were together now. Enough is enough!” She said teary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know but you’re the one that didn’t want to make
it public about us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I just didn’t want to have to defend ourselves
against the frat rules but now…I’m feeling really disrespected, Derek!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She was right and the hurt in her eyes broke his
heart. He would not stand for anyone disrespecting his girl. Even though they
had not made a public announcement, he was sure the word had gotten around that
they were a couple. Still, now was the time to make it official to everyone and
face whatever the consequences were.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek pulled her to her feet and pulled her close
to him wrapping his arms around her waist. He looked deeply into her eyes and
saw the woman of his dreams; he saw his present and his future, his wife and
the mother of his children. Every other woman needed to know that he was
officially off the market.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope Garcia, you are the only woman for me and
even though I have not received as much as a Valentine’s kiss on the cheek or a
card from you, woman, I want you to know that I love you with all my heart. I’m
sorry I haven’t done a better job letting all these women, most of whom I don’t
even know by the way, know that you and only you own my heart.” He said
smoothly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Her mouth dropped open and she was speechless.
Before she could gather her thoughts and respond he captured her lips in a
searing, toe curling kiss. When he finally released her, she was dizzy and had
to grab his arms to steady her knees, which had suddenly gone weak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wow, my Chocolate Thunder! Damn, that was some
kiss!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Happy Valentine’s Day, Princess!” He said with a
smile as he looked deeply into her eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Happy Valentine’s Day, Handsome! She replied still
trying to clear her head from that kiss.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You need to stop doubting me; us. I’m not going
anywhere and it shouldn’t matter what other women do. I’m yours forever, okay?”
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay. I’m sorry, I just get a little crazy
sometimes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sometimes?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She punched him in the arm and he pulled her into
another kiss. A knock at the door interrupted the pair and he reluctantly
released her from his embrace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Come in.” Said Garcia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ poked her head in and looked at both of her
friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You two okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We’re fine.” Answered Garcia smiling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good. We just got a case. Hotch wants us in the
Conference Room pronto.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ smiled and quickly left closing the door behind
her. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So much for my plans for tonight.” Derek
complained.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Duty calls.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two headed toward the conference room where
everyone else had already begun to gather. Just as they reached the doorway
another delivery of gifts were delivered to Derek. Immediately Garcia’s mood changed
from happy to angry as the male receptionist handed the latest haul to the
nervous agent. Derek knew he had to put an end to this immediately.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Come in. Let’s get started.” Hotch ordered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek awkwardly placed the packages on the counter
on the far wall of the room. Garcia quickly took the seat between Alex and Reid
forcing Morgan to sit on the opposite side of the table. He now had a bird’s
eye view of her stone cold face as she ignored him while Hotch reviewed the
particulars of the case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Three middle-aged men have been found dead in the
last three weeks. All three where stabbed in the heart with an arrow and found
dead in their homes the following morning and San Diego PD is asking for our
help.” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How original. Stabbed in the heart during the
month of February.” Rossi said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Either Cupid’s aim is off or someone is pretty
pissed off!” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Is that actually a joke, Spence?” JJ teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Huh? No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction and
affection. In pop culture he is often seen drawing his bow to inspire romantic
love…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry I asked.” JJ interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hmm…an arrow through the heart. This UNSUB may be
on to something.” Garcia mumbled under her breath looking in Derek’s direction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I heard that.” He said returning her glare.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">San Diego
Police Department – Downtown San Diego – Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team was greeted by Detective Sal Mendes the
lead investigator on the case who seemed relieved when they entered the busy
precinct. After introductions they were led to a small conference room that had
already been set up for them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The press has already dubbed this guy the, “Cupid
Killer.” Mendes began. “I know how you guys hate it when the killer is given a
name.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The first thing we will need to do is get the
press to stop using that name.” Hotch said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good luck with that.” Rossi chimed in as his eyes
studied the crime scene photos.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“None of these men knew each other?” JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. We haven’t found any evidence that the three
knew each other.” Mendes answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“All three were shot at close range. They must have
known their attacker.” Morgan deduced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Or thought they knew him.” Garcia chimed in under
her breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I heard that!” Morgan growled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch frowned at the two troubled lovebirds and
continued on with the review.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The same poem was left at the scene of each
murder. “ Hotch continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Everyone sleeps, except lovers, who stay awake, telling stories to God.”
</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Reid
read out loud.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Sound familiar Reid?”
Alex asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Is that rhetorical?” He
replied seriously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan smiled and shook
his head and glanced at the other teammates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“More accurately, this
is a quote by, Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, who was a 13<sup>th</sup> Century
Persian poet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s known simply as,
‘Rumi’ in the English speaking world.” He began.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He was also a jurist and a theologian.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“So does this mean that
this UNSUB is a fan of 13<sup>th</sup> century poetry?” Rossi asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I think it’s too early
to tell.” Hotch answered. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan looked at the
picture of the arrows closely and noticed something very interesting and odd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Look at these arrows.
They seem pretty primitive and something this old may be easy to track.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Garcia, see if you can
find anything on the arrows; age, where it’s from…” Hotch ordered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Look for someone who’s bought
several of them recently, Garcia.” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Not a problem, crime
fighters.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Garcia stood and headed
toward her corner of the room and began unpacking her laptop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Morgan and JJ, you go
to the first crime scene. Dave and Reid to the second and Alex and I will go to
the last scene.” Hotch ordered. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The team headed out as
ordered. Morgan wanted to say something to Garcia before leaving but he thought
better of it. She was not happy with him right now and he didn’t want to make
it worse. This was not how he imagined their official first Valentine’s Day to
be and with them on this case, he felt as if the day had unfortunately crashed
and burned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had planned to take her
to dinner at the new restaurant he’d discovered several weeks ago. She loved
trying new places and he loved experiencing that together watching the
excitement in her eyes as she discovered something new. No matter how upset she
was and no matter how twisted this case may get he wasn’t quite ready to give
up on the day just yet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Much later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The visit to the crime
scenes hadn’t yielded enough evidence to get them close to solving the case.
The only possibility would have to come from whatever Garcia could find on the
arrow. If she didn’t find a lead, then this case could drag on and another
victim would lose his life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Marriott Emerald Plaza – Downtown San Diego <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">After everyone had
returned to the precinct, Hotch ordered everyone to the hotel to turn in for
the night. Morgan wasn’t looking forward to spending the night alone and if he
had his way, he’d have his Baby Girl next to him tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, he looked for a quiet corner away from
the rest of the team and made a phone call. After he ended the call, he felt a
small bit of relief. The day had gone horribly wrong but he wasn’t going to
give up on the day without a fight. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Garcia wanted to kick
herself, again for reacting the way she did when the last gift delivery made it
up the steps to the Conference room. She acted like a pouting little girl and
it wasn’t fair to Derek and she knew he’d done nothing to encourage the women. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He had long ago left his
playboy ways behind. In fact, even before the two of them had decided to give
love a try, he had turned his back on his old life but it seemed that his
reputation would forever haunt him. Sadly, it seemed she was the main person
that refused to let him forget how he used to be. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever
live it down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Garcia was exhausted and
even before she stepped into her room alone she missed him. She had gotten used
to not being alone and ending her day the same way it began and that was with
his strong arms wrapped around her. She had let her insecurities get the best
of her and she knew she had to find a way to make it up to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The team had arrived at
the hotel over an hour ago. Morgan was miserable. He thought that by now he
would have heard from Garcia. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Was she
really that upset? Did she really doubt his love that much?” </i>He thought to
himself. He was at a loss. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The champagne
and dinner that he’d ordered to be delivered to her room should have thawed the
chill in the air. Maybe he still had a lot of work to do to truly win her heart
the only problem he didn’t know where to start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Garcia had decided to
plan a special surprise for Morgan. So, instead of going in her room to sulk,
she quickly put her key back in her pocket and headed toward the lobby of the
hotel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She noticed a private patio when
they checked in earlier and if the room was vacant she’d ask to use it and
order a romantic dinner for the two of them as a celebration of their very
first Valentine’s Day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">She was in luck and
since the young receptionist was a fan of the FBI, she was a great help in
getting a special meal ordered and even gave Garcia a special rate on the room.
Everything was ready; beautiful flowers and candles filled the room. Dinner was
due to arrive in twenty minutes and Garcia had only one task left and that was
to call Derek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just as she fished her
phone out of her purse it rang. When she saw the name cross her screen, her
heart sank.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Derek had given up on
hearing from Penelope so he decided to take a shower and turn in for the night.
Just as he stepped out of the shower, his phone rang and as he looked at the
display screen he thought, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“can this
evening get any worse?”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">As the agents headed back
to the precinct, their plans of Valentine surprises were left untouched, the
champagne, strawberries and a tray of her favorite finger foods uneaten and
growing cold. Her surprise that was her hope of getting the two of them back on
track was reduced to nothing more than a waste of money.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">SD Police Department – later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“We have another
victim.” Hotch announced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The team dragged
themselves into the small room where the new victim’s picture hung next to the
first three. They each looked like their own version of, “Dawn of the Dead,” as
they sleepily found a seat and struggled to focus on the latest victim. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Now, Derek was the one
ignoring Penelope as she noticed his distant and moody disposition. JJ noticed
too and look puzzled at her friend as he sat without as much as a glance
Garcia’s way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Thomas Berry’s body was
found by his wife when she came home early from a business trip.” Said
Detective Mendes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“That’s interesting.”
Alex added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“What do you mean?”
Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Well, all of the other
victims’ bodies were discovered the following morning, but our latest victim
was discovered shortly after he was killed, which may mean that the UNSUB may have
known the victims and had access to these men’s lives in some way.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I think you’re on to
something, Alex.” Rossi began. “Berry’s wife came home early. She wasn’t
supposed to be home until the following morning.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“The fact that they were
found the next morning, then, is not a coincidence.” Reid deduced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Exactly.” Hotch said.
“Who would have this type of access to our victims?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“…A personal assistant,
secretary maybe?” JJ guessed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yes but we already
established that the victims had nothing in common.” Morgan said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“No we just established
that the victims didn’t know each other.” Rossi clarified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“What are you thinking,
Rossi?” Morgan asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Maybe the UNSUB
provided some clerical support or assistance to these men. They wouldn’t have
to know each other…only the UNSUB would have to know them.” Rossi continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Like a virtual office.
A lot of business owners are contracting clerical or personal assistance work
to professionals who may have several people on their client lists.” Hotch
said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Depending on what
services they provided, they would have access to schedules, travel
itineraries, personal and business information.” Said Alex.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Our first victim,
Travis Honors owned a successful internet business. He probably worked from
home. He may have outsourced clerical support to a virtual office.” Reid said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Barry Stern, our second
guy was a writer. He may have needed a personal assistant or a publicist or
something that could very well have been outsourced too.” JJ added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Looks like all of our victims
may have used freelance services.” Hotch noted. “Garcia, check to see who runs
a business that offers clerical, personal, and executive support. Then see
which one had all three victims as a client.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“On it boss.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Garcia was relieved to
have an excuse to leave. She found it unbearable to see the look on Derek’s
face as he sat ignoring her. She knew she’d brought it on herself and now she
understood how he’d been feeling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hotch split the team
into pairs and sent them out to the victims home to interview the
families.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ and Reid visited the home
of Travis Honors. His wife confirmed that he worked from home and often used
the services of a virtual office professional to handle his clerical needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan and Rossi spoke
with the son of the second victim, Hosea Martin. According to his son, he
contracted his secretarial needs out to a service he’d found online. His father
had only communicated with the person on line and wasn’t sure if they were male
of female.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hotch and Alex paid a
visit to the last victim’s wife. Thomas Berry owned a busy neighborhood market
and used a service to handle his bookkeeping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After the visit Hotch ordered everyone back to the precinct to debrief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">All of the victims used
the same service, “All-Purpose Professional Services.” None of the victims had ever
met anyone from the company in person yet the service had access to all of
their important information, which would make it very easy for someone to be
able to find them and not be recognized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I found her!” Garcia
said rushing into the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“What do you have,
Garcia?” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I had to do a lot of
digging because this woman took a lot of care hiding herself. But because I am
the Oracle of All Knowing, I found her with just a few keystrokes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Who is she?” Hotch said
cutting her short.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Oh, uh, sorry, Boss.”
She began. “Meredith Dwyer is the owner and sole operator of, “All-Purpose
Professional Services,” a virtual office where each of our victims was a
client. She operates via the Internet and never sees her clients face-to-face.”
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">She paused for a moment
before continuing. “Meredith Dwyer is also a member of an online poetry society
that focus solely on the work of Rumi and according to recent credit card
purchases she purchased a dozen very old antique arrows from an online medieval
gift shop.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Do you have an address
for her Garcia.” Morgan asked, his first words to her in several hours. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Come on it’s me you’re
talking to. Of course it’s on your PDA’s as we speak.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The team headed out to
apprehend Meredith Dwyer. Her house was located near the Tijuana border town of
National City. When they arrived as usual Morgan was the first one through the
door with the rest of the team close behind him. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One by one the rooms of the large house was
cleared. On the way back to the main part of the house, Morgan noticed a hidden
door. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Hotch, I think there’s
a basement.” Morgan whispered into his communicator.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Where are you?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“End of the hallway
behind the drapes. I’m going in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Wait! Morgan!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan quietly opened
the door and immediately heard voices coming from below him. The female voice
sounded shaky and out of control there was no time to wait he’d deal with
Hotch’s disapproval later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hotch and the rest of
the team rushed toward the hallway and to the door that Morgan had purposely
left open. It didn’t take them long to catch up with Morgan who was halfway
down the stairs when they came through the door. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Meredith Dwyer! FBI!
Drop the bow!” Morgan ordered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan met the eyes of a
terrified man chained to the wall across from him. Meredith had a bow and arrow
trained on the hysterical man who had been begging for his life unable to
convince the crazed woman from taking his life. Meredith glanced at the agent
and then back at her intended victim.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“No! He has to die! It’s
Valentine’s Day!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Put it down! Now!”
Morgan repeated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hotch and the others
slowly descended the stairs to join Morgan with their guns aimed at the woman.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Today is the day to
profess your love but it’s all a lie! All they do is lie and then they cheat!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Is that why you want to
kill this man?” Morgan asked glancing again at the man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yes! He’s a cheater
just like the others!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Margaret, I know you’ve
been hurt, put the bow down and let us get you some help.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“What’s your name?” She
said calmly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“My name is Derek. Derek
Morgan. Now put the bow down.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Are you a cheater Derek
Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“No. I’m not a cheater.
I’m not going to ask you again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The next few minutes
seemed to play out in slow motion. Margaret Dwyer turned her attention to Derek.
With a maniacal smile across her face she turned and looked directly into the
agent’s eyes, bow still drawn and ready to fire in her hands and his gun still
aimed at her. He saw it coming; the rest of the team saw it coming as she
released the arrow. He pulled the trigger confident that his bullet would reach
her before the arrow reached him. He wasn’t sure if he could dodge the arrow
and hit her at the same time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Morgan!” JJ yelled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Damn!” He responded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A wide-eyed opened mouth
look of shock replaced the wicked smile on Margaret’s face as her body crashed
to the floor. Rossi quickly rushed to her and grabbed the bow from her
hand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan stepped toward the dead
woman’s body and stared down at her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Alex and Reid rushed over to the shaking man and released him from the
chains that had held him pinned to the wall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Morgan, you’re
bleeding!” JJ said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“What?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He looked at his arm and
noticed the blood on his sleeve. There wasn’t much pain and no doubt the
adrenaline pumping through his veins had kept him from reacting to the arrow
that had grazed him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“It’s okay. I’m fine.”
He assured her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“No you’re not!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“It’s just a scratch,
really, I’m okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He knew he had been
lucky one centimeter to the right and it would have been a whole other story.
He saw the fear in his partner’s eyes and again tried to reassure her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Hey, I’m fine, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yeah, well you better
get it checked out anyway. If Garcia sees that she’s going to freak!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I don’t know about
that.” He said in a somber voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan headed toward the
stairs as the local PD and CSI entered the basement and began their work. JJ
caught up to him and grabbed his uninjured arm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Hey, what’s going on? I
thought you’d made plans to surprise Garcia at the hotel?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I did.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Well?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Well what?” He wasn’t
in the mood to discuss it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“What happened? You both
have been acting like the world has come to an end since we were called back
in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Nothing happened, JJ!
Nothing. Not one word.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Are you sure she saw
it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“She had to; we were
back over an hour before Hotch called us back in. I’m telling you, not so much
as a thank you!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“That doesn’t sound like
Garcia, Derek. Have you talked to her?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“No. I haven’t I just …”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“You know Garcia.
Walking into her room and seeing the romantic set up from you would have sent
her flying into your arms.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“JJ, I don’t know. She
was pretty pissed more than I realized I guess.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Morgan, talk to her.
There’s got to be a reason…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I don’t know what to
say. Today was supposed to be our first Valentine’s as a couple and it’s been
one disaster after the other. Maybe she’s having second thoughts.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The two met up with the
rest of the team outside and Hotch noticed Morgan’s arm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Morgan, get that arm
checked out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“It’s fine, Hotch. It’s
just a scratch.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“That’s an order. JJ go
with him and make sure he doesn’t get lost.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yes Sir.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The rest of the team
headed toward the precinct while JJ and Morgan headed to the hospital. Garcia
met the team as they came through the door. Reid had already told her what had
happened and in the classic Garcia style she was panicked and when Morgan
didn’t walk in with the rest of the team she was imagining all sorts of
disasters in her mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“He’s fine.” Hotch said
seeing the hysterics in her eyes. “It’s just a scratch. I sent him to get
patched up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Really? Why didn’t he
call me himself?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I don’t know. You can
ask him when he and JJ get back.” Hotch answered. “Oh and whatever is going on
with the two of you, I expect it to be solved before we leave for Quantico
tomorrow.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Hotch walked past Garcia
and headed to their work area to begin debriefing and completing paperwork for
the local PD.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yes Sir.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The last thing Garcia
wanted to happen was for her and Derek’s relationship to affect their jobs.
Hotch had sensed that there was something going on which meant everyone else
did too. She had to fix the mess she had created and fast. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">While waiting for Derek
to return, Garcia looked over the case report and notes from the team. Margaret
Dwyer, 45, had been married to a successful businessman for 25 years until
suddenly he left her for a much younger woman and to make matters worse, he
chose Valentine’s Day to profess his undying love for his mistress. An
announcement of the couple’s upcoming wedding was Margaret’s stressor that sent
her on her killing spree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">University Hospital – Later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan and JJ were
waiting in one of the Emergency Room exam rooms. Morgan had been cleared to
leave and the minor injury to his arm has been stitched and bandaged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ’s phone rings and is surprised at the name
on the display screen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Garcia?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“How is he?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Uh…fine…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“He’s there isn’t he?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Absolutely.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Crap! Now I really feel
like an idiot.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan looked at JJ
puzzled he suspected it was Garcia but he wasn’t in the mood to talk to her so
he leaned back on the gurney and closed his eyes. JJ mouthed the words, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I’m sorry” </i>and stepped into the hallway.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Okay. I’m in the
hallway. What’s going on between you two?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“JJ, he’s really pissed
at me! I think I’ve lost him…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Why haven’t you called
him? He’s really hurting right now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“JJ, I think I really
blew it! I had this surprise all set up and then we got called back to work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Wait, you had a
surprise?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yes. I saw this really
cool patio off of one of the rooms and I booked it for tonight…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Wait…Garcia, Morgan had
a surprise too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yes…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The two women were
interrupted as Morgan came up behind JJ with discharge papers in hand and ready
to go. JJ quickly ended the call and turned innocently toward Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I’m out of here.” He
said dryly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Let’s go then.” JJ
replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The two walked toward
the exit in silence and into the parking lot. JJ drove and Morgan sat in the
passenger seat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“JJ, can you drop me off
at the hotel?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“You okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Yeah, I’m fine. I just
want to go to bed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“You know Garcia is
going to want to see you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Well, she had her
chance earlier she wasn’t interested. I doubt anything’s changed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Morgan! You need to
talk to her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Please JJ, just drop me
off at the hotel, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Okay, fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Marriott Emerald Plaza – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan dragged his tired
body slowly up to his room his mood growing worse by the moment. He was starving
and desperately wanted a shower and a drink; no make that several drinks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Morgan stepped inside of
his room closing the door behind him he flipped on the lights and was stunned by
the sight before him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A small table just
for two sat in the middle of the room with a bottle of champagne chilling on
ice and a tray of strawberries, chocolate and an assortment of finger foods. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He stood motionless not
sure what to make of what he was seeing. The light knock on the door pulled him
back to the present.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Garcia? What are you
doing here? I thought you were still at the police station?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“I wanted to make sure I
caught you before you turned in for the evening.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He was speechless still
not able to wrap his head around the champagne and strawberries, the food and
now her…Penelope Garcia…standing in his hotel room doorway waiting for an
invitation to come in. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Come in.” He said
gently taking her hand and pulling her inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">She smiled slightly and
followed him into the room stopping next to the table. She had to remember to
thank her new friend at the front desk as she looked down at the treats before
her. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Derek, I’m really
sorry. I planned this surprise to say I’m sorry but we got called back in and
when you weren’t talking to me I thought I’d lost you and I know I deserve your
anger and know I shouldn’t have…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">She was rambling and she
could see him trying to stop her and speak but she kept going afraid that he
would say something that she couldn’t bare to hear. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">He could have insisted
on saying something but all it would mean was that there would be less time for
the two of them to show each other how much they loved each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For once he wasn’t going to let his male
pride get in the way and so he did the only thing he really needed to do…he
pulled her into his arms and kissed her. He kissed her like a man that didn’t
need air to live. He showed this woman who had long ago captured his heart that
he forgave her for doubting him and his feelings for her. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">…And she did the only
thing that she could do, needed to do…she kissed him back. That kiss expressed
her regret, her apology and her intense love for a man that had saved her life
time and time again. A man who had proven his love and no longer had to
convince her that she was his center and he was hers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The two lovers stood
there for a moment longer in a quiet embrace and then talked and enjoyed the
champagne. They laughed at the comedy of events that threatened their first
Valentine’s Day. They promised to tell the story to their children and grandchildren
and after the champagne had been polished off and they had dined until they
were about to burst, the two, Derek and Penelope made the evening complete
making new wonderful memories of showing each other what they truly meant to
each other that lasted well into the morning hours…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Happy Valentine’s Day,
Baby Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“Happy Valentine’s Day,
Handsome.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">I've never imagined that there can be this day.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">A day that love will find its way.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Out of my heart and into your soul.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">These feelings I have are beyond my control.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">All my life I have waited patiently.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">For a goddess like you, so beautiful, so lovely.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Words can't express the way I feel.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">These feelings towards you are all for real.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">You are the reason why I go on.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Eternity can't separate this special bond.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">This heart of mine is reserved for you.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Forever it is yours, this love is true.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">I'll be your first and you'll be my last.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">My world, my everything, till my time has past.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">I will always love you until the end of time.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">My love, my sweetheart, my Valentine! – Sokea Meas<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">The End…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-5565972336017054052014-02-11T22:36:00.000-08:002014-03-08T22:57:47.613-08:00Present Tense<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Carl
Buford has a daughter…and she’s out for revenge!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">***</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan! Agent Morgan can you hear me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The voices seemed so far away. He felt as if he
were fighting to open his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan! Hang in there we’re going to get you out of there, okay! Just hang on…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Potomac
General Hospital – Early Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team sat quietly in the Emergency Waiting Room.
The noise and constant busyness seemed to go unnoticed as they waited for news
about Morgan’s condition. It had taken the rescue workers over an hour to free
him from the wreckage of his truck and they had been forced to wait on the road
above until he was finally lifted out of the pit where his truck had landed.
Garcia and JJ had waited holding their breaths and each other at the BAU
headquarters. Neither of them wanted to think about what the workers would find
when they finally reached him. Luckily, he was still alive, barely, but it gave
them what they so desperately needed at that moment…hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia and JJ had met them at the hospital once
they’d received word that he had been rescued. Time seemed to stand still and
the waiting left them all numb so when the doors sprung open they all jumped to
their feet. A tired looking young doctor dressed in faded green scrubs entered
the waiting room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hello. My name is Dr. Mason. Are you all here for
Agent Morgan?” The young man asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes.” Garcia spoke up anxiously. “How is he?” She
asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well initially we had a difficult time getting him
stabilized but now that we have we are taking him to surgery.” He began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Even though he was young he immediately saw the
looks of concern in their faces and he felt the need to encourage them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia gripped JJ’s arm for dear life. She couldn’t
think or speak and none of what was going on and none of what the doctor was
saying seemed to sink in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan is in one of the best hospitals as
I’m sure you know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re going to do our
best to save his life.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He wanted to kick himself he knew his words
wouldn’t make them feel any better. He hated this part of his job; talking to
families without taking away their hope and without misleading them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What are his chances, doctor?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reid asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s still early. We’ll know once we get him to
surgery and get a better look at what we’re dealing with.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Can you tell us how long he will be in surgery?”
Rossi asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I would say at least five hours. You may want to
go home and get some rest. We also have a surgical waiting room that’s a lot
more comfortable than here if you like.” The young doctor offered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks doctor.” Hotch said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dr. Mason nodded and headed to the door. The others
stood in silence momentarily trying to take everything in. It was hard to
believe that they were here waiting on news on whether or not their friend
would live. Even though none of them had mentioned it they were going to have
to notify Morgan’s family, which was going to be a difficult task for any of
them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I-I need to call Derek’s mom.” Garcia’s shaky
voice broke the silence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Everyone looked at her not knowing how to respond.
JJ squeezed her hand and gave her a sympathetic look as she stood to move to
the opposite side of the room. She counted the rings trying to calm her nerves.
Fran picked up on the fifth ring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey Baby! How are you?” Fran’s cheery voice broke
her heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hi Fran…” She couldn’t go on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope? What’s wrong?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ crossed the room to her friend and placed a hand
of comfort on her shoulder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s Derek.” Penelope struggled through her tears
to continue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope, is he…” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Fran, Derek was in an accident. He’s in surgery
now…the doctors…they’re not sure…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m on my way.” Fran ended the call.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">No one had gone home. They had moved to the
surgical waiting room and luckily they were the only ones occupying the
room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Empty coffee cups littered the
room and the six of them were nodding, pacing and fidgeting trying to find a
comfortable place and position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fran had
called Garcia back and given her the details on her arrival. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Surgical Waiting Room – Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A distraught and frazzled Fran Morgan entered
followed by a man that was no stranger to the team. Det. Stan Gordinski had
insisted on coming to Virginia with Derek’s mother. Hotch, Rossi and the others
were surprised and puzzled to see him. Neither Derek nor Penelope had mentioned
his new status in Morgan’s mother’s life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fran immediately embraced Penelope who seemed to collapse in the older
woman’s arms. Stan awkwardly followed behind Fran noticing the surprised looks
on the other’s faces.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh Baby.” Fran said teary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We still haven’t heard anything.” Penelope said
wearily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Detective?” Hotch began puzzled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“This is a surprise. What are you doing here,
detective?” Hotch inquired.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Fran and I are...well, I didn’t think she should
travel alone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The proverbial pin dropped and it was indeed heard
as silence covered the room and inquiring minds focused on the large
uncomfortable man. Fran moved to his side and placed her arm in his.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek’s sisters aren’t able to get a flight until
later today.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch rubbed his temple in exhaustion. “Please tell
me Morgan knows about this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes agent, he knows.” Fran half smiled as she
looked at Agent Hotchner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well. Good.” Hotch shook his head and moved
towards the opposite side of the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Moments later two men dressed in scrubs entered the
room. One was the young Dr. Mason. The other and older white haired gentleman did
most of the talking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good morning. I’m Dr. Rausch, the surgeon on Agent
Morgan’s case.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How is he doctor?” Fran spoke up anxiously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He made it through surgery. There was damage to
his spleen, which we were able to repair. Also, his left lung collapsed due to
several broken ribs that punctured it.” He began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran gripped Stan’s arm and leaned her head against
his arm. He pulled her close to him and waited for the rest of the news from
Dr. Rausch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan also had a lot of bruising to his
spine and legs which we hope will heal on their own but he will have to undergo
several weeks of physical therapy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Will he be okay, doctor?” Penelope asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We’re optimistic but a lot depends on when he
wakes up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What do you mean?” Reid asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He was unconscious when he was brought in and we
won’t be able to assess any further damage until he wakes up. The sooner he
wakes up the better.” Dr. Mason added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I need to see my son.” Fran said wearily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry, ma’am but he’ll be in recovery for the
next several hours. After he’s moved to ICU, then you can see him.” Said Dr.
Rausch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You all should really consider going home and
getting some rest. He’s stable and we don’t expect any problems. If anything
happens we can call you.” Dr. Mason suggested.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two doctors turned and left the team in the
waiting room. No one spoke for the next few minutes not sure what to do yet
thankful that Derek had made it through surgery and he was stable enough for
the doctors to be comfortable to send them home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m staying.” Penelope said firmly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">They all knew that look and that tone of her voice.
She wasn’t going to be talked out of her decision. Penelope quickly turned and
found a seat in the far corner crossing her arms and making herself as comfortable
as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Surgical
Waiting Room – Afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope had managed to doze off for a few hours
with her head leaning against the wall; the television played at a low hum in
the background. The small framed nurse lightly tapped her shoulder startling
her awake. Her heart was pounding out of control and she was sure the woman had
come to share some bad news about Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Miss Garcia?” The woman said timidly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Y-Yes!” Garcia said slightly disoriented.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My name is Sarah. I’m the nurse assigned to Agent
Morgan…sorry to startle you…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No-no…it’s okay.” Penelope interrupted. “Is he
okay?” She knew she sounded desperate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I just wanted to let you know that he’s been moved
to ICU.” He’s still stable and that’s a good sign.” The nurse continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Is he awake?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sarah wished that she could give her the answer she
wanted but unfortunately she couldn’t.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry he hasn’t regained consciousness yet.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope felt her heart sink. She knew what it
meant and she fought to hang on to the fact that he was stable and had made it
through the last several hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Can I see him?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course. Follow me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope followed the woman through the doors and
down the hall towards the elevators. The ride up two floors felt like an
eternity as she leaned her head against the wall and closed her eyes silently
praying for a miracle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Room 412-
Derek’s Room<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">If it weren’t for the bruising and scratches from
the glass and the fact that he was hooked up to IV’s, chest tubes, and too many
monitors to figure out, she would have thought he’d just fallen asleep. In a
way, that’s what he had done. His mind and body had worked together, conspired
was a better word, to shut his mind down so that it could figure out what had
happened and find a way to fix it all. At least that’s what her own mind was
telling her. It was the only way she could stand next to his bed and look at
him lying silent, broken and somewhere too far for her to reach him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She hadn’t realized that she had touched his hand
and she hadn’t realized that her tears had already begun to fall on the white
sheets that covered him. Hospitals had been too commonplace for the two of them
lately and she yearned for peace and normalcy. What would it take for them to
just have a moment to feel like their lives weren’t always spinning out of
control? She lightly ran her hand up his arm careful not to touch the IV line
that had been placed just above the inside of his wrist. He hated needles and
had he been awake he would have surely given them hell for even attempting to
stick him with one. A faint half smile crossed her face as she remembered
trying to convince him to donate blood at the last FBI blood drive. He was the
first one to stare down an armed UNSUB, or kick in the door of a serial killer
but he wouldn’t willingly come within a thousand yards of a needle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wake up, Handsome.” She whispered as she continued
to caress his hand. “It’s time for you to wake up and come back to me.” Her
voice broke as the tears flooded making it impossible to say another word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She didn’t hear her friend enter and jumped when JJ
placed her small hand on her shoulder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sorry. It’s just me.” JJ said softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How is he?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He still hasn’t woke up, JJ.” She said without
looking away from Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“S-h-h…he will.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“But what if he doesn’t?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t give up on him just yet, Garcia. This is
Derek, remember?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope briefly looked at JJ and then back again
to the man who possessed her heart as he lay motionless before them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m not sure if I could go on if I lost him,
Jayje…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You can’t talk that way, Pen. Give him time. You
know him, he’s trying with all of his might to fight his way back to you but
you have to stay strong!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“She’s
beautiful, D!” <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How’d you
get so lucky?” His father giggled as he looked into his son’s serious face.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I ask
myself that all the time.” <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, I
hear you. I used to ask the same question whenever I thought about your
mother.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek
closed his eyes and took in the feeling of the cool air as it gently blew
through the room. The white curtains that hung from the ceiling seemed to dance
effortlessly as the breeze touched them on it’s pass through. </span></i><i><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek
noticed that the flowers outside had changed colors. They were now bright red
and orange he so wanted to touch them and to pick a few for her but he remembered
the last time he’d wanted to follow his father out to the garden.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You still
can’t go, D.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“When did
his father become able to read his mind?” He thought to himself.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s
wrong, son?” Noticing the troubled look on his son’s face.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Did I do
something wrong?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wrong?
What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How did I
get here?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That’s a
question for another time. There’s another question you should be asking.” His
father prompted.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Another
question? What?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Exactly!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was
even more puzzled. He wanted to go home to hold her and tell her that he loved
her but he couldn’t figure out how to get back to her. He suddenly realized that
his father was again heading toward the garden outside.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Dad!
Wait!” Derek shouted.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">His father
kept walking and not responding to his son’s pleas for answers.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Dad!
Don’t go! Not yet! Please.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Holiday
Inn – Fredricksburg, VA <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aaliyah Buford had made it a point to sleep in
today. It had been a while since she’d given herself permission to sleep past 7
a.m. but today was different. It was a new beginning for her and she felt like
celebrating. The first thing on her list was to check out of this cheap hotel
and head toward D.C. for a little sightseeing. As she looked around her modest
accommodations she shook her head in disappointment at what little seventy
bucks bought these days. No matter, she was certain things were about to get a
whole lot better for her for when she returned to Chicago there would be an
insurance check in the mail from her dearly departed father and she’d have the
satisfaction in knowing that Derek Morgan was dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Putting the last few items in her luggage and
grabbing the hotel shampoo, soap and lotion from the bathroom counter, she
headed out of the door into the sunshine of what she hoped would be her brand
new life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s alive!” The man’s voice seemed panicked and
out of breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aaliyah closed the door of her rental car with one
hand pulling the phone away from her ear with the other and looking at it in
disbelief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What! I told you…No screw-ups!” She yelled
pounding her hand against the steering wheel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t know how he could have survived, I’m
telling you boss! No way!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then how do you explain it?” She said still
yelling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I-I don’t know! That truck was like a damn
pretzel! I saw it myself, boss!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And yet he still lives!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry, boss…I’ll fix it. I know what hospital
he’s in…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Never mind! This is what happens when you sleep
with the help! I’ll take care of it myself!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – Quantico, VA<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch, Rossi, Alex, Reid, and JJ were seated
quietly around the conference table. Their minds and hearts where at the
hospital but they had been ordered back to work and had been reminded that
their jobs didn’t stop because an agent was down. They didn’t like it and they
didn’t like the new director who had spoken such blasphemy. It was true but now
wasn’t the time to be reminded of such. So far they had been successful in
covering for Garcia’s absence. Hotch had used a convenient case of the flu to
explain her not being there with the rest of the them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Section Chief Cruz appeared in the doorway much to
the surprise of the team. He glanced at each of them and noticed that each
looked as if the world had suddenly come to an end. The file in his hand would
give them something to occupy their minds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m glad you were all able to make it in today
under the circumstances.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Did we have a choice.” Asked Rossi who still
didn’t give a rat’s behind about who held the title of Section Chief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I thought you’d be interested in the accident
report from last night.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course.” Hotch spoke up taking the file from
Cruz.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s it say?” JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Not much.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hotch handed the file to Rossi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hmm…” Rossi said studying the photos inside the
folder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What?” Said Hotch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The only skid marks are from Morgan’s truck.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So?” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So, that means the truck that hit him never tried
to stop!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, it was a hit and run. The truck kept going.”
JJ concluded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Normally, in a hit and run the other car or truck
in this case at least tries to avoid the accident.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“If it was truly an accident, there should be signs
that the truck tried to avoid hitting Morgan…skid marks!” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are
you saying it was intentional?” Alex asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That stretch of road is rarely travelled at night,
especially by large trucks because of the curves and the fact the road is
narrow and it’s dark.” Hotch deduced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“If that’s true then whoever hit him had to know
that Morgan was going to be on that road.” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Which means they had to have been watching him for
a while to learn his travel habits.” Said Rossi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So he must take that road all the time. Wait to
Garcia finds out. She hates him driving on that road!” JJ said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Who would go through this much trouble to kill
Morgan?” Hotch said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That’s a long list. For any of us.” Rossi guessed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, we better find out who it is this time
before they find out they failed.” Hotch added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Potomac
General Hospital- Derek’s Room – Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran sat quietly at her son’s bedside. She’d
convinced Penelope to go home to sleep and take a shower. She dreaded this day
and it was her worst nightmare come true. His line of work made the risk of
injury and death high and the fact that she had lost her husband in the line of
duty made her anxiety even higher when it came to Derek. He always took
chances, running into danger without considering the consequences to himself.
To think that someone would target him for harm was disturbing to say the
least.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan Gordinski had decided to wait in the waiting
room with the rest of Derek’s family; the entire team had arrived shortly after
three and Stan had volunteered to pick up Derek’s sisters, Sarah and Des from
the airport earlier. He’d gotten to know the girls over the last two months
since Fran decided to finally reveal their relationship to her children. He
knew Derek would not be happy to see him but he came nonetheless. He would not
allow Fran to go through this alone and he could tell that she appreciated him
being there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She cursed to herself at the sight of the waiting
room full of his family and friends. Aaliyah knew she would have to be extra
careful when she noticed Stan Gordinski sitting with Derek’s sisters. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“What the hell was he doing here?”</i> She
thought to herself. Gordinski and her father had been close so it struck her odd
that he was sitting in the midst of her enemy’s camp. No matter it wouldn’t
stop her from doing what her inept lover failed to do last night. She slowly
walked past the group, all of them anxious, some fighting back tears, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Save some for the funeral.”</i> She
chuckled to herself as she continued down the hallway toward room 412.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran had been in deep thought as she stared into
space. Her thoughts were focused on the night she’d gotten the news that her
husband had been shot to death trying to stop a robbery. He and Derek had gone
to the store for her to get milk and bread for lunches the next day. That was
something a ten year old should never have to witness. It was a miracle that
the gunman didn’t kill her son that night. He was covered with his father’s blood
and eerily quiet when she got to him at the hospital. She still remembered his
eyes red and filled with unshed tears. Then the flood came as she grabbed him
up in her arms. His little body shaking in her embrace and he held onto her for
dear life for what seemed like hours. After that night she could count the
times she ever saw her son shed a tear; it changed him forever and pained her
to find out later that that night was only the beginning of his torment and
pain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The faint squeeze of her hand pulled her from her
thoughts. She looked up and saw her son’s eyes trained on her. She jumped to
her feet reaching for the call button.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Baby!” She whispered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mom?” He said confusion spread across his face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Take it easy, the nurses are coming.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She gently stroked his face and planted a kiss on
his forehead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Welcome back. We missed you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Without answering he looked around the room trying
to make sense of his circumstance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I sent her home to get some rest. She’ll be back
soon.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aaliyah watched across the hall as the nurses
rushed into the room followed by a blonde bespectacled woman. Anxious she
waited hoping that Mother Nature would complete her task.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan tried unsuccessfully to move to a sitting
position when he saw Penelope rushing in behind the nurses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope?” He said again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Take it easy Agent. We don’t want to get ahead of
ourselves.” Said the nurse that Penelope had met earlier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m here, Handsome! You’re awake!” she said
teary-eyed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan continued to move but his weakened state
kept him glued to the bed which judging by his expression irritated the heck
out of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s back!” Fran said smiling at her stubborn son.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m going to have to ask you ladies to leave for a
while so that the doctors can examine him.” Said the nurse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Reluctantly, Fran and Penelope backed out of the
room and headed to the waiting room to share the good news with the rest of the
family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meanwhile Aaliyah Buford looked
on hidden amid the normal hospital hustle and bustle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Waiting
Room – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s awake!” Penelope shouted bursting into the
room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The mood immediately shifted to high excitement as
everyone surrounded Garcia and Fran anxious for details.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The nurses kicked us out of the room so he can be
examined but he’s awake!” Fran announced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Everyone hugged each other joyfully and even Stan
Gordinksi was included in the celebration. The mood wasn’t dampened by the
arrival of Drs. Mason and Rausch as they too seemed happy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, I guess you’ve heard. Agent Morgan is
awake.” Dr. Rausch began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How is he, Doctor?” Penelope asked nervously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s doing remarkably well considering what he’s
been through.” Dr. Rausch answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So what’s next?” Fran asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s very weak which is understandable but he’s
showing no signs of brain damage and all of his vitals are good.” Dr. Mason
added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t be mistaken, he has a ways to go before he’s
100 percent but all in all, we couldn’t be more pleased at his progress.” Dr.
Rausch interjected.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">There was a collective sigh through the group as
the doctors continued to explain the next steps in Morgan’s treatment.
Penelope, Fran, Sarah and Des, clung to each other as they listened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“If he continues to progress, we’ll remove the
chest tube tomorrow and then begin some light physical therapy to strengthen his
back and leg muscles.” Dr. Mason informed them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Can we see him?” Garcia asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course but please don’t tire him out. I can
already tell that he’s going to be a difficult patient.” Dr. Rausch instructed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You found that out already did you?” Hotch chimed
in with a slight chuckle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two doctors looked affirmatively at each other
and smiled back at the group.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">They all headed down the hallway towards Morgan’s
room with Garcia leading the way and Fran close on her heels smiling with
satisfaction at the woman who loved her son.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Meanwhile, Aaliyah watched the parade from her
hiding place in plain sight. Timing was everything and now was not the time to
act in haste. She’d waited this long to see him dead and she was willing to
wait a little longer to exact her revenge on the man responsible for her
father’s death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan felt awkward and even though his relationship
with Fran was no longer a secret in no way had he fooled himself into believing
that he had earned a spot in the Morgan family, not by a long shot and if Derek
had his way, he would be floating face down in the Chicago sewer system.
Purposely, he entered the room last and as he did he noticed a familiar face
lingering around the nurses station. It couldn’t be who he thought it was; it
had been more than twenty years but… maybe it was just a coincidence. Besides
they say everyone has a twin; surely that was the case. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope rushed to his side kissing him lightly on
the lips not caring that the rest of the team’s jaws were hanging in surprise.
She didn’t care she had come too close to losing him to care what anyone
thought and she would deal with any fallout or teasing later but right now, she
needed to be near him and he needed to be near her. So, she sat in the vacant
chair next to him and gently placed her hand in his.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The others watched trying to pretend that
everything was normal. Even though the couple had not made an official
announcement, no one was surprised that they had finally made it official. The
running joke was that they had always been a couple and that everyone had
gotten the memo except the two lovebirds. The rumor was that Rossi had started
an office pool and judging by the grin on his face as he watched Derek and
Penelope escape into their own world, he was winning hands down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The Highway Patrol didn’t believe it was an
accident.” Hotch said after clearing his throat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know.” Derek said quietly keeping his eyes on
Garcia. “It was like he was waiting for me. I didn’t even see him until he was
right on top of me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran glanced at her daughters as she placed a hand
over her mouth. Sarah and Des grabbed each other as they struggled to hear his
account of the night before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Can you tell us what happened?” JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He looked in Penelope’s eyes he knew she’d be upset
with him. She hated that road and had pleaded with him before not to take it
especially at night. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry, Baby Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You know how I feel about that road…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know but I was running late and I thought…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, don’t… I already know that you travel that
road all the time!” Her voice was quivering now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, stop both of you. We need to find out who’s
behind this!” Fran interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope knew she was right and she was embarrassed
at her behavior in front of Derek’s family but she was overcome by the thought
of how this whole thing could have turned out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry. You’re right…I just…” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Suddenly, Garcia stands and bolts out of the room
down the hallway and out of sight. Fran shoots a look at her daughters who
quickly follow after her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If Derek could
have gotten out of the bed he would have kicked himself for causing her pain.
Seeing her so upset made him forget his own physical pain. He had broken his
promise to not do anything that would make her worry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, we need to know everything that happened.”
Hotch said regaining control.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t know, Hotch. Can somebody just go get
Penelope?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“She’s fine. Your sisters are looking after her.
Listen to your boss.” Ordered Fran.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Alex, Reid, Rossi and JJ looked at each desperately
trying not to burst into laughter and vowing silently to never let him live
this down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan glared at his mother as he tried in vain to
shift to a more comfortable position.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sarah and Desiree found Garcia sitting at the
fountain across the street from the Emergency Room. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she heard them approaching she began wiping
the tears from her face. She felt so foolish and selfish for throwing a temper
tantrum for all the world to see. What must Derek’s family think of her?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s stubborn, you know.” Sarah said as she approached
Garcia and sat next to her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And hard headed.” Des chimed in taking the seat on
the other side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You all must think I’m a real baby.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No actually, we think you’re a magician!” Des said
lightheartedly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“A magician?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Anybody who can tame our brother must have some
magical powers.” Sarah added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s always sworn he’d never fall in love, never
have kids, never settle down…” Des began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…And now look at him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s ridiculously in love! Derek has never
brought a girl home! We never even knew their names!” Sarah added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Really?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Really!” Sarah and Des said together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I love your brother more than life itself but he
makes me so mad sometimes! He runs into danger like…like it’s a play date! I
just want to ring his neck!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sarah and Des gently pulled Penelope into a
sisterly embrace and for the next few minutes the three women sat in silence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You know you can’t change him right?” Sarah broke
the silence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah. I know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He is a hard headed, stubborn man who loves you
like he’s never loved anyone in his life, but you knew what you were getting
yourself into. Don’t act like you didn’t know, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Baby Girl</i>! Sarah added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope looked over at Sarah and realized that she
may have met her match. Sarah’s brutal honesty forced her back to reality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ouch! Is that your version of tough love?” Garcia
asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Listen, I’m not saying that you should let my
brother off the hook. In fact, I think you should kick his ass. It’s just, now
isn’t the time. He needs you. He almost died and even though he’d never admit
it, it scared the crap out of him.” Des added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope was silent for a moment. She knew Des and
Sarah were right. Derek was who he was and she couldn’t change him. As a matter
of fact she didn’t want to change him. The very things that infuriated her
about him is what made her fall in love with him more and more each day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We better get back. He’s probably raising hell
right now trying to get out of bed and telling the nurses to just put a
band-aid on it and let him go!” Penelope smiled getting to her feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The three headed back to the hospital entrance arm
in arm. As the automatic doors opened a woman rushed past them nearly bumping
into Garcia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Boy, she’s in a hurry.” Said Sarah looking after
the rude woman.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope tried to not let anything else upset her
but Desiree thought it odd that she would see a familiar face so far away from
home. She’d seen her before it had been a while but her face and mannerisms
were disturbingly familiar. She knew it would bug her until she remembered who
that woman was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aaliyah headed toward the exit. The last thing she
needed was to run into her father’s old friend Stan Gordinski. What was he
doing here anyway? She knew all about the trouble that Derek had been in with
the law while he was growing up and she knew Gordinski was always the one
hauling Derek in for any trouble that went down in the neighborhood. Things
seemed to have changed and Stan and Derek’s mother seemed awfully close.
Aaliyah had waited too long to get revenge and she wasn’t about to get distracted
by strange love connections and carelessness; if Stan Gordinski wanted to sleep
with the enemy that was his business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
she headed quickly out the door, she nearly ran into an old classmate from
junior high school. That’s all she needed was to be seen by Desiree Morgan! One
thing for certain she was going to have to conclude her business here quickly
before she was discovered and before Derek was well enough to defend himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek’s
Room<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mom! Really? Are you trying to kill me too? What’s
he doing here?” Derek growled angrily shooting a glare at Stan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan rolled his eyes as Fran placed a loving hand
on his arm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Son, don’t start!” Fran said sternly. “I’m
grateful for having him here. He didn’t want me to go through this alone.
Besides, none of us knew what we’d find when we arrived.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Listen, Derek. I know mine is the last face you
wanted to see when you woke up but I’m here to support your mother, period.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I think I’m going to be sick for real!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, okay. We’ve got work to do if we’re going to
catch this guy. I think we all need to head back to Quantico.” Ordered Hotch as
he glanced at his team.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Reluctantly the BAU team said their goodbyes and
headed out of Derek’s room leaving only his mother. As a second thought, Stan
followed Hotch and the others out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Hotchner.” Stan began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What is it Detective?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“This might not be anything but when we were all
headed to Derek’s room I could have sworn I saw Carl Buford’s daughter.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What? I didn’t know Buford had a daughter.” Hotch
answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hearing this, the rest of the team turned and
joined the conversation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Not many people know. Carl had a daughter by
another woman other than his wife. Caused quite a problem in their marriage as
you can imagine.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sure that’s an understatement.” Rossi
interjected.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, well, Carl kept it sort of a secret but
occasionally he would bring her around to the youth center but it wasn’t until
she got older that he started spending more time with her and introducing her
as his daughter.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You think she’s here to kill Morgan? Reid asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I doubt it’s a coincidence.” Hotch answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I didn’t want to say anything in the room it was
already a little tense as it was, besides it may not be her.” Gordinski added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We can’t afford to take any chances. Thanks
Detective.” Hotch said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Stan. Please, call me Stan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s going on? Everybody looks so serious? “
Penelope asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">None of them had seen the three return and were
somewhat startled by their arrival.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Stan here thinks he may have seen Carl Buford’s
daughter.” Alex answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Daughter? You mean that scumbag procreated?”
Penelope stated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That was her!” Des shouted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What you saw her too?” JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Just now as we were coming in.” Des looked at her
sister and Penelope. “She’s the one that nearly ran into you Penelope!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“This is some ballsy chick! She’s been hanging
around all day waiting for the right time to try again!” Rossi said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We better make sure she doesn’t get that chance.”
Hotch added. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As the group headed back to Morgan’s room Hotch’s
phone rings. As he stops to answer it, Rossi notices a sudden frown cross his
face and as the others proceed into the room he lags back with Hotch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s up, Hotch”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We just got a case.” Hotch answered pocketing his
phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We’ve got a case here!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Not according to the bureau.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oklahoma City needs us ASAP and the director has
already informed them that we are on our way.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That’s crap Aaron and you know it!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know but we don’t have a choice.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How do we protect Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We’ll have to put an agent on him and pray that
helps.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good luck getting Garcia to leave his side.” Rossi
said as the two joined the others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia had resumed her spot next to Morgan and they
were already discussing Buford’s daughter. Even though they hadn’t had a chance
to talk in private it was apparent that the two were just fine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We just brought Morgan up to speed.” Said Reid.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We have a case.” Hotch informed the others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Where?” JJ asked surprised.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oklahoma City. Three murders in three days and the
locals are asking for our help.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No! You guys can’t go! Not when this psycho is
still out to get Morgan!” Garcia pleaded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The director wants you with us too, Garcia. I did
talk him into letting you stay in Quantico but you’ll have to be actively
working this case.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No way! I can’t leave… I need to be here with…
no!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Baby Girl, listen. I’ll be fine. You have to help
the team. It’s your job.” Morgan insisted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran and her daughters couldn’t believe their ears.
It sounded as if Derek would be alone and defenseless against a crazy woman out
to kill him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What is your plan to protect my son, Agent
Hotchner?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mom, I’ll be fine.” Morgan reassured her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The director has assured me that he’s sending
agents over now to keep an eye out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What about my family?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I think it would be a good idea to put your family
in protective custody until this is over.” Hotch added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks Hotch.” Morgan said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I can work from here. I’m not leaving this room!”
Penelope insisted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Baby, listen to me. I don’t want you in the line
of fire…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Line of fire? Morgan!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No, Garcia. I want you back in Quantico at
headquarters where I know your safe! End of discussion!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia surrendered, she knew that look on his face
and he wasn’t taking any resistance from her. She couldn’t imagine leaving but
she knew that not only did the team have a case in which they were going to
need her, but Derek wasn’t going to put her in danger.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Everyone said their goodbyes and headed out, the
team first and then his family. Just as Stan headed out behind Fran and his
sisters, Morgan stopped him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Gordinski, can you hold up a minute?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sure.” Stan gave Fran and the girls a puzzled look
as they waited in the hallway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I need you to make sure my family is safe.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course. I love your mother and I won’t let
anything happen to her our your sisters.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek felt a sudden pain in his gut and he wasn’t
sure if it was from his injuries or from having to ask Stan Gordinski for help.
Either way he didn’t like the feeling not one bit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch had relied on the director to assign agents
to Morgan’s room. That was his first mistake. He thought a seasoned FBI agent
would honor his word and do everything that was humanly possible to protect one
of his own. But he, like so many who didn’t fully understand what the BAU stood
for and what they had accomplished over the years took his time fulfilling his
promise to Hotch. Later, the director would blame his busy schedule and heavy
obligations for his delay in sending the agents to Potomac General Hospital but
it wouldn’t change the fact that Agent Derek Morgan was alone, seriously
injured and unarmed. It didn’t change the fact that the agents would arrive
much too late to stop the intentions of one Aaliyah Buford who had made it her
life’s mission to kill Derek Morgan even if it meant her own death. Later,
after all was said and done about the events of the next twenty-four hours, no
one would ever be able to criticize him about his trust issues either and if
they did, he’d remind them of the importance of a back up plan, just in case
the Calvary didn’t arrive in time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Four
Seasons – Washington, D.C. – Later that evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aaliyah Buford had checked into the Four Seasons a
few hours ago and had decided to indulge in a restful night before completing
her mission the next day. Her room in the ritzy five-star hotel was a vast
improvement from her earlier dive. After all, you only live once, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She ordered room service and jumped in the
shower while she devised a plan that would change her life forever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan – Day<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Okay, so this was really weird, Stan Gordinski
thought as he sat on the edge of the bed in one of the guest rooms in Derek’s
home. The young man who he’d spent countless hours harassing and arresting and
blaming for the trouble in their neighborhood so many years ago, now had been
his unwitting host for the evening. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Life was filled with unexpected twists and turns as
he stepped out of the shower and headed toward the smells of food in the
kitchen. Before he entered he thought he’d make a call to the hospital to speak
to the agents assigned to watch over Derek. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The meal was delicious and he still wondered how
she was able to make nothing taste so incredibly good; a talent she surely had
to sharpen raising three children for so many years alone on meager means. He
admired the woman who sat across from him and he was puzzled at the notion that
they had found each other and he knew for a fact that he didn’t deserve her
especially after all the pain and misery he had caused her family, especially,
Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">After breakfast, Stan volunteered to help Fran
clean up while the girls relaxed, his excuse for spending time alone with his
lady.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Something was bothering him, she could tell as he
washed and she dried. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s going on in that head of yours, Stan?” She
demanded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t feel comfortable leaving Derek alone at
the hospital.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I called a few minutes ago and the agents hadn’t
arrived.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh my, God! You mean he’s alone?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m going back.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“But…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No “Buts.” If they’re there when I get there, I’ll
come back.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan dried his hands and headed to the bedroom to
grab his jacket and gun. Fran met him at the front door and he pulled her into
a warm embrace before saying goodbye and heading back to the hospital.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Potomac
General Hospital – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aaliyah cautiously walked the hallway careful not
to run into Stan Gordinski or Desiree Morgan. Yesterday had been too close and
she had been extremely lucky. As she approached the waiting room she was
surprised that it wasn’t occupied by Morgan’s family and friends. Surely they
were in his room if so she’d have to be patient a little while longer before
she got her chance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Much to her surprise his room was also empty. There
he was lying asleep alone. She almost thought that this was a trap yet she
quietly entered the room, closing the door behind her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was gorgeous even with the healing
scratches and bruises on his face and arms. She remembered having a crush on
her classmate’s older brother but he didn’t even know she existed. He began to
move and awaken drawing her from her thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Who are you?” He asked sleepily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Aaliyah. Do you remember me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek knew exactly who she was and his mind began
plotting a way out of his situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Normally, this would have been the time he’d reach for a weapon but
unfortunately he found himself with nothing but a nearby IV pole and monitors;
none of which were within reach.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I remember you.” He tried to sit up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then you know why I’m here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He wanted to keep her talking in hopes that someone
would come before she grew tired of explaining why she had come to pay him a
visit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Aaliyah, I’m sorry about your father.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Are you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Really?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your lies put him in
prison and your little speech at that press conference got him killed! Sorry?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I didn’t know he’d get killed…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Come on Derek! You know what convicts do to child
molesters in prison! They did your dirty work for you! So who’s the real murderer?
Huh?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Your father was exactly where he belonged, behind
bars!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My father was a good man! He cared about the kids
in our neighborhood. He helped a lot of them get out and make something of
themselves…even you!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Your father was a pedophile who hurt a lot of boys
and he hurt me too!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan was disturbed when he saw no signs of Federal
agents. He picked up his pace toward Derek’s room and stopped cold at the sight
before him. Quickly, he pulled out his phone and placed a call to the FBI and
to local police requesting emergency assistance. He carefully inched closer to
the nurses’ station and informed the head nurse of the situation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You took away the only person that really loved
me! My mother was too busy chasing her career to care about me. But my dad, he
loved me and he never hurt me!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He didn’t hurt you because you weren’t his type!”
Morgan watched as she reached into her pocket.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“If you really believe that your father was a good
man then leave this room and don’t look back. Don’t do something that you’ll
regret.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aaliyah pulled a gun from her pocket and aimed it
at Morgan. Instinctively he felt his body tense and pull away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t do this! You won’t get away with it!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You were supposed to die in that truck the other
night. I really need to be more careful who I hire to do work for me.” She
chuckled as she steadied her hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan saw a familiar figure just beyond the woman,
standing outside of his room. He never thought the day would come when he would
be happy at the sight of this particular person; their eyes met as Derek tried
to remain calm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Aaliyah, think about what you’re doing. It’s not
too late to stop this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Shut up! Shut up! I’m not one of your criminals
that you can get inside of their head and talk some “sense” into! Shut up!! I
know what I’m doing and I know what I want to do!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Aaliyah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Do you want to die today?” He asked her in an
eerie sounding voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You heard me. Do you want to die today?” He
repeated as he looked toward Stan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Noticing him looking at something outside of his
window she made the biggest mistake since she’d arrived in Fredricksburg, she
turned her head to follow his line of vision and as she did she came face to
face with the hot metal slamming into her skull as Detective Stan Gordinski,
Chicago PD fired ending her life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">2 days
later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The case in Oklahoma had ended in time for the team
to get back for Derek’s discharge from the hospital. Penelope had been by his
side every second after the showdown with Aaliyah Buford. Hotch was furious to
learn that the agents assigned to protect Derek arrived after the coroner’s
team had bagged the body. The team hadn’t seen him that mad in quite a while. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek’s room was packed with his family fussing
over him and driving him crazy to put it mildly. Fran was happy that her son
had even allowed Stan in the room without throwing a fit. Of course, he now
owed him his life, which in itself didn’t sit well with Derek.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As Garcia watched the attention being
lavished on her man she couldn’t help but snicker at how the Morgan family
seemed to be growing daily. What a mix of characters she thought as she placed
the final item in his bag as he slowly settled into the wheelchair, under
protest of course. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">His Chicago bound family would be leaving the next
day and that included the man who had 48 hours ago saved his life. He didn’t
know what to do with that it just didn’t seem real that the man who wanted so
desperately to take his freedom away only a few years ago and who had made it his
mission to make his childhood miserable, now was a part of his family. This man
had managed to move into the place in his mother’s life that had been vacant
for so many years; left void by the death of his father. His stomach still
jumped at the thought of his mother and Stan Gordinski sharing the same bed and
perhaps making things permanent between them, but he couldn’t deny the glow in
his mother’s eyes and the way she held onto him and leaned on the big hunk of a
man. Stan looked at his mother the same way he looked at Garcia, as if there
was nothing and no one better in the world than this woman. He wanted so much to
hate him still, but he had saved his life, and he loved his mother not in just
words but in his actions by doing what a man who loves a woman is supposed to
do, defending her and accepting her the all of her which meant her family even
if did include a stubborn hard headed son. It was true, you couldn’t choose
your family; Aaliyah couldn’t choose who her father was. As much as he hated to
admit it, he couldn’t choose who his mother fell in love with and so with that
he resolved that he would probably be seeing a lot more of Stan Gordinski. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">“Revenge...
is like a rolling stone, which, when a man hath forced up a hill, will return
upon him with a greater violence, and break those bones whose sinews gave it
motion.” – Jeremy Taylor<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-31500316880582477502014-01-28T21:37:00.001-08:002014-01-29T00:56:52.402-08:00Past Tense<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Derek has had close calls before; too many to count but will this be his last...</i></span><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Present – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek
always assumed that if he ever lost his life it would be in the line of duty.
He’d been in some dangerous situations in the last almost fifteen years of law
enforcement and just when he’d seen it all, there was always another case that
would come along and leave him breathless and not in a good way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He
had been injured more than he could count but he’d been lucky and so far, none
of his injuries had been life threatening. Some of his teammates hadn’t been so
lucky. Elle had been shot in her own home and even though she had recovered
physically, the invasion into her private sanctuary had changed her forever.
Penelope had been shot by a man who pretended to be interested in dating
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wasn’t an agent and she wasn’t
trained to see the warning signs of danger. She simply accepted an offer for
dinner with a handsome man. Derek still felt guilty for what had happened; he’d
upset her and so out of spite she placed herself in danger, unknowingly. He
could go down the list, Reid and his kidnapping by Tobias Henkel, which left
him with a constant battle against a dilaudid addiction and Hotch being
attacked and tortured by Foyet that nearly robbed him of his life and cost
Haley hers. Derek was the first to admit that he’d been damn lucky especially
since he was always the first one through the door and the first to head into
the unknown after an UNSUB. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maybe
today, was his turn to face death, perhaps his time had finally run out; after
all, why should he be spared what the others had not? Still no one was ever
prepared for death, and when faced with their own mortality each person would
fight with their last breath to survive. Here he was trapped in this cold, dark
dingy place, and only God and he knew where, fighting to stay alive. His body
racked with pain and bloody and getting weaker by each passing minute, yet he
still held out hope that he would survive and his mind continued to run
non-stop scenarios to escape to freedom. His mind began to think about his life
just like everyone else he supposed who thought they were at the end. His
family, friends the things he’d accomplished and his failures. He wanted to
believe that he’d made a difference and that someone would miss him when he was
gone. Don’t be mistaken Derek wasn’t giving up that wasn’t in his makeup. He
recognized that the odds were not in his favor but he still felt the faint beat
of his heart and that was enough to fight to make it out and back to his life,
to her and so he closed his eyes and prayed even as he laid in the blackness of
what could very well be his final resting place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BAU Headquarters 1 Hour Ago…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Hey
Handsome! Come on, that can wait until tomorrow. The team is waiting on us!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Penelope
entered his office and closed the door. She knew how Derek was when he was focused
on a task; everything faded into non-existence until he was finished. Smiling
she approached him taking a seat on the edge of the desk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Baby
Girl, why don’t you go ahead with JJ and I’ll meet you guys in about twenty
minutes, okay.” He replied without looking up from his paperwork.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Ahhh…come
on! You know what they say?” She said pouting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek
placed his pen down and reluctantly looked up giving her his attention.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“No,
tell me, what do they say.” Derek asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“All
work and no alcohol makes Derek a dull boy.” A sexy smile crossed her face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Oh,
is that right? I thought it was, “fun.” He began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“It
could be a lot of fun! She winked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She
always knew how to change his mood. She knew just what he needed and when he
needed it. He smiled and for a moment forgot about the file in front of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Okay,
I hear you.” Derek pushed his chair back and beckoned for her to come to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Oh
so you feeling frisky Agent Morgan?” She said as she quickly went to sit on his
lap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’m
feeling a whole lot of things, Baby Girl but I’ve got to finish this report or
Hotch will have my head.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Brushing
a strand of her blonde curls from her face he planted a gentle kiss on her fire
red lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Just
give me twenty minutes and I’ll join you guys, please?” He pleaded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Returning
the kiss she removed herself reluctantly from his lap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Okay,
my sexy crime fighter, twenty minutes and not a minute longer!” She said
sternly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Twenty
minutes. I promise.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek’s
eyes followed Penelope as she headed for the door. As she turned to say goodbye
their eyes and smiles met.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Hey
Baby Girl?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Yeah?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
love you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
love you too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Would
those be his last words to her? Just as they had finally begun a life together would
it be snatched away? He had faced danger daily but the one thing that he’d
wanted more than anything in the world, had made him turn and run settling
instead with meaningless tryst with countless women, wasting precious time that
could have and should've been spent with the only woman that had ever owned his
heart. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Present…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By
now she’d really be pissed at him. He was at least an hour late meeting the
team. He’d promised her, twenty minutes and no later. He’d heard his cell ring
at least five times already; just out of reach from his fingers straining to
touch it and tell her he was trying to get to her but…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mars Bistro - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
team was gathered at a corner table in the rear of the room. This was their
favorite table because it put them close to the bar and after the past week of
two back -to- back out of town cases, they all needed to be close to the bar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek
hadn’t arrived and Penelope didn’t know whether to be pissed or worried and as
she dialed his cell for the third time worry won out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Hey
Garcia, anything wrong? JJ asked noticing the worried frown on her friend’s
face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Derek
said he’d meet us in twenty minutes, we’ve been here an hour and he’s still not
here.” She answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Maybe
he just lost track of time, he’ll be here don’t worry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’ve
called him three times and he hasn’t answered. His phone goes straight to
voicemail.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“You
know how Derek is, Mr. Focus, he’ll probably walk through the door any minute.
Now, order another drink and stop worrying!” JJ teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“That’s
just it, Jayje, we made each other a promise after New York, that we wouldn’t
do anything that would cause the other to worry!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Garcia,
come on…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“No,
JJ, he always, and I mean, always calls if he’s running late and he always
answers my calls.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*******<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
headlights had blinded him as he rounded the bend on Bird Creek. It was too
late for him to maneuver out of the way in time. He wasn’t expecting to meet a
big rig on the wrong side of the road barreling toward him. He knew Penelope
hated him taking that road but he was running late and it would cut at least
five minutes off of his trip. What could happen, right? Not much traffic
travelled on that road at night; most people chose the newer wider road off of
I-30 unless they were headed to one of the privately owned luxury cabins in the
hills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The crunch of metal and smashing
of glass still rung in his ears as he attempted to shift his body under the
steering wheel that had him pinned. The excruciating pain that instantly shot
through his legs stilled him. He turned his head slowly to find another way to
free himself, that’s when he saw the blood mixed with glass on his shirt. His
head hurt and he was dizzy he could feel blood trickling down the side of his
face then his eyes fluttered closed as he could no longer keep them open. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">******<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Garcia,
let me take you home.” JJ said worriedly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“No.
I better stay in case he comes.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">JJ
looked at her friend who was near tears. All she could think of was that Morgan
better have a good reason for causing her best friend to be worried out of her
mind. She knew that he wouldn’t hurt Garcia but she didn’t want to let on that
she was worried about him too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“How
about we go by the BAU and see if he’s still there. Besides, if he comes after
we leave he’ll call you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“O-Okay.
This isn’t like Derek, JJ. Something’s wrong.” She said grabbing her jacket.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Well
let’s not jump to conclusions. We’ll find him and we’ll all help you kick his
ass.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Garcia
gave her friend a weak smile and as they said goodbye to the others they headed
toward the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*******<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Mission
accomplished, Boss.” A deep raspy voice announced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Are
you sure he’s dead?” A soft feminine voice asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“The
way his truck barreled down the side of that hill and folded up like a pretzel,
there’s no way he could have survived.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
won’t tolerate any screw-ups!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Trust
me he’s dead and if he’s not he will be long before anybody finds him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“You
better hope so.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Anything
else, Boss lady?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Close
the door on your way out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">******<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BAU –<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">JJ
and Penelope arrived back at the BAU and there was no sign of Derek. In fact
according to the night janitor, he hadn’t seen him since he’d arrived over an
hour ago. Now JJ had to admit out loud that she too was worried. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hotch
sent Alex and Rossi to Morgan’s and he and Reid headed back to headquarters. It
wasn’t like Derek to be out of touch with any of them. There had to be an
explanation and he didn’t like what it could be. Reid began calling area
hospitals but no one matching Morgan’s description had been admitted. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once
Alex and Rossi arrived at the office with no news, Hotch decided to begin an official
search for their missing agent. Penelope was a basket case but they needed her to
hold it together if they were going to find him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Garcia,
I need to search through Morgan’s emails and phone calls for the last two
weeks. Maybe there’s a clue there. Any unfamiliar numbers or names, anything
that may connect to an old case, anything that may sound threatening that he
hadn’t told us about.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“You
think someone may have tried to hurt him?” She asked shaking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
don’t know but we have to consider everything.” Hotch answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">******<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Hey, D! Wake up!” The man’s voice was
eerily familiar</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Come on, son! Wake up!”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Dad?” Derek answered with relief.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“There, there. That’s better, son.” His
father’s voice soothed him.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’ve missed you Dad.” He didn’t care that
he was crying.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’ve missed you too, D.” He wanted to touch
his father but his arms refused to move.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Don’t worry about that.” As if he could
read his mind. “You can’t touch me yet. It’s not time.” His father continued
and smiled at his son.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Time?” Derek was confused.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“You’re not giving up yet, are you, D?” His
father was the only one who called him, D.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“No. I’m not giving up. I miss you so much,
Dad.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Yeah, I know you do.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek looked around the room; it was
beautiful, bright and it had no furniture or walls. It led out to a garden
filled with lavender and yellow flowers. Derek followed his father as he turned
and headed toward the outdoors. Just before he stepped over the threshold his
father turned back to him.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“No, son you can’t go.” He put his hand up
to block him from going any further.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Where are you going, Dad?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’m not going anywhere. I’m staying. You’re
the one that’s going?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I don’t understand? I thought I was dead.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Are you?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Why else would I be here with you?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Why indeed…”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derek’s
body jerked and his eyes popped open and the pain reminded him that he was
still very much alive. It was so cold and the night air was waging war on his
weakening body. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Where was everybody? Why hadn’t anyone come
to help?</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hotch
had accused him of having trust issues before and it had made him angry. He
wanted to prove his boss wrong. He wanted to believe that his team could save
him in time but as the minutes ticked by he felt himself slipping away and so
was his trust.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BAU Headquarters – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
team assembled around the familiar conference table. This was the place where
they would discuss cases and strategize about how to save the innocent and
catch the evil, crazed and demented members of society. It was odd that they
had found themselves here working now to save one of their own. Each of them
wore faces riddled with fear and worry as they struggled to push back the
thoughts that bombarded their minds. They had to put to use those skills that
they’d used everyday in order to bring their teammate home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Okay,
what do we have?” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“It’s
most likely not a kidnapping.” Reid said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“How
do you know?” Garcia asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“We
would have heard from his abductors by now.” Rossi answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“No
one who fits Morgan’s description has been admitted to any of the local
hospitals.” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
called Mars Bistro and he never showed there after we all left.” Alex chimed
in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“The
janitor said he’d been gone at least an hour when we got back.” JJ noted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“What
do we do now? He couldn’t have just disappeared!” Garcia said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“We
need to retrace his steps.” Hotch added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“You’re
right Hotch. We know that he was supposed to meet us at Mars. So we search all
the possible routes from here to there.” Rossi instructed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Garcia,
I know you’re upset but we …” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’m
good. I’m here and present, just tell me what you need.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Good.
I need you to pull maps of the routes from here to Mars. Then I need you to
trace Morgan’s phone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“On
it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“JJ
can you call the Highway Patrol and let them know what’s going on? We need them
to start a search now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">******<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She’d
waited a long time for the moment she could end Derek Morgan’s life. He’d taken
the most important person from her and she wasn’t going to rest until he got
what he deserved. He wasn’t happy with just causing her father’s death he had
to humiliate him first taking his dignity and reputation and then forcing him
to spend his life behind bars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She
knew her father; he would never hurt anyone especially a child. He’d dedicated
his entire life helping the kids in her neighborhood make something of
themselves and what did he get for it? No, he had to pay for what he’d done and
she wouldn’t rest until he was dead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The beautiful
dark skinned woman hadn’t smiled in a long time. Her mind and heart consumed
with hatred and anger but now as she stood in front of the mirror touching up
her makeup she wiped away a stray tear and smiled for the first time in a long
time. She had promised her dad that she’d make him pay. He was daddy’s
favorite, and every time he would mention him she felt a twinge of jealousy;
she didn’t know why. She wondered how her father must of felt when his favorite
betrayed him; she’d never do that to him, never! Aliyah Buford would never
betray her father.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BAU Headquarters - </b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
found him! Garcia shouted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
team looked up as she ran through the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
found him!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Where
is he, Garcia?” Hotch shouted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A
large map was now displayed on the smart board in front of them. There was a
small area circled in red.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Right
there!” She said pointing to the spot. “It’s called Bird Creek and it’s a dangerous
curve of road and a lot of accidents have occurred there because it’s sharp,
treacherous… and damn! I told Morgan not to drive that road! He knows I hate it when he drives that road!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Garcia!
Calm down! He was probably trying to make up some lost time.” JJ interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Garcia
slumped in a chair trying to make sense of the last several hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I’ve
sent Highway Patrol and paramedics to the scene. Oh, God, what if…” Garcia was
now in tears.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Garcia,
don’t even go there.” JJ pleaded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Let’s
go.” Hotch ordered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">*****<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Morgan
heard sirens in the distance. He wasn’t sure if it was all in his imagination
or if it was real. If it were real how would they see him his truck had
travelled so far down the hill and he couldn’t reach his phone to call for
help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It
was so cold but at least the pain had subsided and all he wanted was to sleep.
He was tired of struggling to stay awake. He needed a nap just for a few
minutes, what could it hurt…just a few minutes was all he needed…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As
his eyes drifted closed he felt as if he were floating and he could almost
swear that he saw another glimpse of his father.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">TO
BE CONTINUED…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-50382382359412295842013-12-23T21:01:00.000-08:002014-03-27T12:51:34.641-07:00Home For The Holidays<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek
reluctantly decides to spend Christmas in Chicago. Will family drama threaten
to ruin his first Christmas with Penelope or will he learn the true meaning of
Christmas?</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan- Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek had dodged his mother’s request for a holiday
visit for months now. Things hadn’t been the same since he’d rescued his cousin
Cindi and brought her home two years ago. Even though the reunion was a
miracle, things had not been the same between him and his family especially his
Aunt Yvonne. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Up to now he’d been able to blame work on his
infrequent visits and phone calls. This year his mother however, was insisting
on a visit from her Baby Boy and she wasn’t taking no for an answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…And bring Penelope with you.” She insisted
firmly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek closed his eyes and inhaled trying to remain
calm. He hated denying his mother anything. They had always been close and she
knew him better than anyone, well, almost anyone. Penelope had that spot now.
He was certain that his mother had more in mind besides, wanting to see him
opening presents in his childhood home. Her constant chiding about grandkids
and settling down were sure to be main topics during his visit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mom, you know I can’t promise anything. If we get
a case…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, I know all of that, son, but I want you
home. Your sisters miss you, I miss you.” She pleaded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Fine, fine. I’ll talk to Pen when she gets home,
okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you, Baby! I’ll see you in a few days.” She
cheerily replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wait…Mom..I…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran Morgan quickly hung up before her son could
protest further. He released an exasperated breath, looked at his mother’s face
on the screen of his cell, hit the “END” button and pocketed the phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A broad satisfied grin spread across her face. Except
the two times cases had brought him to Chicago, it had been two years since
he’d been home for a real visit. His calls home to her had dropped from once a
week to once every two weeks. Their family had been fractured since Cindi’s
return and she knew Derek blamed himself for the strained relationships. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran had made it quite clear that she wanted her
son to settle down and give her some grand babies. She didn’t just want him to
settle down, she wanted him to settle down with his “best friend” Penelope
Garcia. She knew that the two of them were hopelessly in love and as smart and
aware as her son was he was clueless when it came to his true feelings for his
Baby Girl. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek hadn’t told his mother about his new relationship
with Penelope. He knew she’d be thrilled but he didn’t want any pressure for
marriage and babies. Too many things had gone on in the last few months and
adding a determined mother to the mix would definitely push him over the edge. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope would be thrilled over the invitation from
his mother. The two had never met in person but had talked several times over
the phone. The two hit if off immediately, which made him happy and terrified
all at the same time. A case had sent them to Chicago a few months ago and his
mother sent homemade peach cobbler back with Derek just for Penelope. He had
himself to blame really; he talked non-stop about her whenever he called home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He loved his family and he missed them terribly but
he didn’t look forward to spending Christmas in Chicago. Things hadn’t been the
same in the last few years. A visit would mean seeing his Auntie Vonne, his
cousin Cindi and her son Anthony and memories of a lie he told that caused the
rift in the once close-knit family. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The sound of jingling keys and his squeaky front
door drew him out of his thoughts. He and Penelope had keys to each other’s
places and so it wasn’t strange that she would let herself into his home.
Clooney’s ears perked up and he lazily walked toward the front of the house,
tail wagging at the familiar figure that met him in the front room. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope bent down and greeted the overgrown puppy
with a scratch behind his ears before heading toward the noise in the kitchen.
She smiled as she saw him shirtless and his back to her which meant that something
was bothering him; she never got this far into his house without him at least
turning to meet her as she crossed the kitchen’s threshold. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey Baby Boy.” She said gauging his mood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey.” He growled in a low voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Uh-oh not good she thought. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, let’s cut to the chase. What’s up, My
Sweet?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope sashayed playfully toward her man as he
slowly turned to face her eyeing her up and down. Even though he tried to hide
it she could see the frustration behind his grin. He took the last few steps to
close the gap between them and pulled her into his arms. Looking into each
other’s eyes momentarily made him soften a bit and shift his mood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sorry, Baby Girl.” Kissing her lightly on the
lips. “You deserve a better greeting than that.” Kissing her again but this
time deeper as if to prove a point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, wow!” She said pulling away for air. “You’re
forgiven Hot Stuff!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope looked at her watch and held up her hot
pink travel mug glancing at the coffee pot filled with fresh coffee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Let’s go, we’re running late. Hotch will be
looking for us.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek’s smirked turned into a fake frown as he took
the mug from her and walked toward the coffee maker filling her cup and his.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek and Penelope had been at work for three hours
and he still had not told her about his earlier phone call with his mother. It
was all he could do to stay focused on the mundane consults that he had been
assigned by Hotch while they weren’t out of town on a case. He knew he had to
tell her sooner than later because it was only a matter of time before she
demanded an explanation for his still foul mood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A knock on his office door provided a much-needed
break from the current file he was working on. Rossi opened the door after a
few seconds and entered making himself comfortable in a chair across from
Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey, what’s up, Rossi?” Derek said closing his
file.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I noticed you’ve been holed up in here all morning
like a man hiding from something.” He said staring at his younger friend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s this case Hotch handed me. Just trying to get
it knocked out before I leave today.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You sure it’s not something else, like holiday
plans with family and friends?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek looked at Rossi in amazement; he always
seemed to know things, gossip that no one else was privy to. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What are you talking about Rossi?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s just that I’ve noticed you haven’t been home
much since we solved your cousin’s case. She’s home now, I’d think everything
would be back to normal.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes
for a moment not knowing where to begin but needing to talk to someone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Rossi, when I told my aunt that I lied about my
cousin being dead, she freaked; I can still feel her slap across my face.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Your cousin’s home now. She and her son are safe
and they’ve started a new life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My Aunt told me that she’d never forgive me for
that lie. She told me she didn’t want to see me again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“But you brought Cindi home…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, I did. I thought it would change things,
that she would forgive me but I haven’t spoken to her since.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Have you tried calling her?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. I just thought that it would be better if I
just left it alone. If she wanted to talk to me then she’d call.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And how’s that working for you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s not. Now my mother is insisting that I come
home for Christmas and she wants me to bring Penelope with me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Does she know that you two are together now?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Nobody’s supposed to know that we’re together,
Dave.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, c’mon. We’re profilers we knew the moment
it happened we just thought we’d let you guys make an official announcement.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We’d planned to say something sooner but…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, I know…Erin…” Rossi said sadly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Dave…” Morgan said sorrowfully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dave straightened in his chair and shook off the
dark mood that threatened to overtake the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, listen to me. Life is short and family is
everything. Go to Chicago and make things right, clear the air. If nothing
changes than at least you know you did everything to fix things with your
aunt.” Rossi pleaded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Rossi, I thought I was protecting my aunt when I
told her Cindi was dead.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And you never stopped looking for her, right?”
Rossi interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Right. I kept looking.” Derek confirmed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then tell your aunt that. She needs to know why
you did what you did.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t know…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And take Penelope with you. She has a way of
melting the heart of ogres and dragons. Besides, your mother needs to know that
she may be getting those grand babies sooner than she thinks.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope’s
Lair<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope sat running diagnostics on her babies. She
knew Derek’s mood had to have something to do with his family. Lately the
holidays were filled with his mood swinging from bad to worse even though he
tried to hide it from her. She wasn’t going to push him to talk; that was an
unspoken rule between them. No pushing which often meant a lot of waiting for
the other to be ready to talk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope was slightly disappointed, to put it
mildly that Derek hadn’t mentioned Christmas. She loved the holidays but since
her parents died when she was eighteen, they just weren’t the same and she’d
spent most of her holidays alone or with quick dinner drop-ins with friends and
their families which in the end only managed to make her feel even more alone.
Now that she and Derek were together she wanted to begin making happy memories
with him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A knock on her office door interrupted her
thoughts. She knew it was him even before he wrapped his arms around her and
planted a soft kiss on her cheek. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s cracking, Hot Stuff? She smiled turning to
face him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My mother wants us to come to Chicago for
Christmas.” He said cutting to the chase.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Us? As in you and me, us?” She questioned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes. You Penelope Garcia and Me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Does she know that…?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No but you know my mom, she’s the president of the
Penelope Garcia Fan Club. If she has her way we’ll be married before the New
Year.” He interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Is that why you’re in such a pissy mood?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m not in a pissy mood, woman!” He said
defensively.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You my Chocolate Hunk of Burning Love are in an
extremely pissy mood!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek surrendered and pulled her up and into a
close embrace. He didn’t want to fight with her; besides she was right as
usual, he had been an unbearable bear since his mother’s call.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry, Baby Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Their private moment was interrupted by a knock on
the door. The two released each other just as JJ poked her head in the door
pretending that she did not know what was going on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hotch wants us in the conference room.” She smiled
and quickly retreated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ smiled as she headed toward the conference room.
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Those two.”</i> She said to herself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Penelope Garcia – Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek and Penelope sat comfortably on the sofa
eager to start their weekly movie night. Tonight’s menu was pizza from Derek’s
favorite Italian restaurant, wine and if they managed to stay awake long enough
Penelope had planned hot fudge sundaes for dessert.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Man, I thought when Hotch called us into the
conference room he was going to tell us we had a case.” Morgan began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, me too. I can’t imagine you guys out in the
field on Christmas.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well the bad guys don’t observe the holidays, Baby
Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know but still…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I hear you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan opened the wine and poured two glasses
handing one to Penelope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you my Sweet. So, have you decided if we’re
going to Chicago? She said changing the subject.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You know I won’t hear the end of it if we don’t
go. Besides, my mom is already making plans. Are you up for meeting the rest of
the Morgan clan?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ve been ready, Baby Boy. The real question is,
are <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> ready?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No, but I know we need to make a decision so we
can enjoy the weekend off that Hotch was good enough to give us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope grabbed his phone off the cocktail table
and handed it to Derek and smiled at him encouragingly as he dialed his
mother’s number.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Fran Morgan – Chicago – Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran hung up the phone and began putting the
finishing touches on dinner. Her Baby Boy was coming home for Christmas; all of
her babies would be home and eating dinner together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">There had been a few changes in Fran’s life since
her son had last come to visit; changes that she knew she should have probably
shared a while ago but she kept putting it off hoping to be able to share it
with him in person. With her sister-in-law and her family joining them
Christmas for the Morgan family was sure to be interesting to say the least. As
she pulled the roast out of the oven she secretly prayed that if there couldn’t
be peace on earth, perhaps there would be peace in the Morgan household,
although she didn’t hold out much hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek and his best friend are coming for
Christmas.” She said placing a plate in front of her dinner guest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I assume you haven’t told him about us.” He said
placing his napkin on his lap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s not something I wanted to tell him over the
phone.” She said placing her plate and sitting across the small kitchen table.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Are you sure Christmas is the best time to tell
your son that we’re dating? I’m not his favorite person in the world.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Stan you do have a knack for the obvious.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan Gordinski chuckled and began eating his
dinner. Detective Gordinski and Derek Morgan had a bad history. When Derek was
a young boy, he was a constant target of Gordinski’s. Even on a visit for his
mother’s birthday about seven years ago, Gordinski arrested him and was
convinced that Derek was a serial killer. That arrest led to the discovery of
Derek’s secret of childhood sexual abuse that he had fought so desperately to
keep hidden.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How’s your food?” She said trying to change the
subject.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Delicious as always, Babe.” He said exchanging
smiles with her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Let’s not fool ourselves, Fran, your son is going
to blow a gasket! His mother and me, his arch nemesis, dating. I don’t know
that’s just a Christmas disaster waiting to happen.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two continued to eat and discuss the impending
start of World War III that was sure to begin with an epic explosion when Derek
Morgan and Penelope Garcia arrived on Christmas Eve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – Monday Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch stood on the catwalk watching his team goof
off. Christmas was two days away and he knew unless they got a case in the next
few hours nothing productive was getting done. He much preferred giving them
the entire week off but the bureau would not hear of it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi joined him as they both grinned at the silly
goings-on below. Reid was showing JJ some silly magic trick, Alex chatted with
Penelope and Derek was noticeably absent from the group. He still wasn’t in the
Christmas mood so he sat in his office finishing reports and thinking about the
next few days and feeling guilty for wishing for a case that would take them
out into the unknown. So many personal plans had been interrupted in the past,
birthdays, anniversaries and graduations that it wouldn’t be out of the norm to
have to cancel Christmas. Somehow, Derek had a feeling that this year Christmas
would come and drag him right along with it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan
Family Home – Chicago, Illinois- Christmas Eve<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">It didn’t matter that it was thirty degrees and
snowing Penelope was happy to be in Derek’s hometown. She’d dreamt for years for
the day to come when she would meet his family. Of course she wasn’t naïve
enough to think that these were ideal conditions. With the strained relations
with his aunt and the two of them revealing that they were now a couple, the
next two days were going to be filled with lots of tension, drama and home
cooked meals, just the way the holidays should be, she chuckled to herself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek pulled the rental car into the freshly
shoveled driveway and cut the engine. Looking at all the white snow reminded
him of how much he didn’t miss Chicago. He also wondered when his mother
started shoveling snow because she was way too frugal to pay for a service to
do it. Quickly helping Penelope out of the car and grabbing their bags the
couple dashed to the front door and rang the doorbell. Fran Morgan quickly
opened the door beaming from ear to ear and welcomed them inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My Baby Boy is home!” She shrieked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey, Ma.” Hugging her tightly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And this must be Penelope!” Quickly pulling her
into an embrace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good to meet you Mrs. Morgan.” Returning the hug.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Come in you two, come in!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek and Penelope followed her into the main room
of the house. Derek took their coats, scarves and hats and hung them on the
coat rack in the hallway as Penelope made herself comfortable on the couch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ve got fresh coffee or tea, hot chocolate?” Fran
offered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’d love some hot chocolate.” Penelope piped up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Coffee for me Ma.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran disappeared into the kitchen as Derek sat
close to Penelope on the couch nervously tapping his fingers on his knee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Relax, Stud Muffin. You look like a man about to
walk the green mile.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You don’t know my family. I love them dearly but
once my mother’s on a mission, she’s relentless. My sisters, man, they are
nosier than The National Inquirer on steroids!” And once they find out about
us, Baby…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran returned with a steaming tray of drinks, which
put a halt to Derek’s rant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope, your are simply gorgeous! My son has
good taste…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ma! Please!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What? You don’t think I’m falling for that ‘just
friends’ thing do you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ma, Pen and I are just…well, we were just…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope blushed and looked at Derek as he fumbled
with his words. She thought it best she take the conversation at this point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, Mrs. Morgan…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Fran. Please call me Fran, baby.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks. Fran. Uh, Derek and I are officially
dating now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran shrieked in delight as she jumped up and
hugged Penelope for dear life as Derek rolled his eyes and shook his head in
embarrassment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then came the questions
of “when,” “how,” and demanding blow-by-blow details. Derek excused himself and
headed toward the basement in hopes of finding some sports on TV or a dull
knife to slash his wrists. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Fa-la-la-la-la,
la-la-f’g-la,” </i>he thought to himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran and Penelope talked well into the late
afternoon; Fran sharing things about Derek that Penelope didn’t know and some
of those things he would be mortified if he knew she knew. Both women bonded
immediately and Penelope felt as if she’d found someone that filled the empty
space left with her own mother’s passing. She didn’t mind the questions about
her and Derek or even her own childhood and it was clear why the man she loved
possessed the qualities of compassion, fearlessness and everything else that
made her fall madly in love with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The Morgan home was warm with love that sent a
twinge through Penelope as Fran explained the history of the many ornaments on
the tree that stood filled with garland, blinking lights and homemade and store
bought decorations. The blazing fire made everything seem surreal and straight
out of a Hallmark Christmas special.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek got comfortable on the old couch in the
basement and surfed the channels for something to watch settling on Sports
Center. He was glad that he had decided to come to Chicago even though he still
wasn’t looking forward to seeing his Auntie Vonne tomorrow. The joy in his
mother’s eyes was worth whatever came next. Penelope was happy too she had
finally gotten a chance to meet the woman who he spoke so highly of and who had
raised him and his sisters under tough circumstances. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The smells coming from upstairs reminded him that
he hadn’t eaten since early this morning and he climbed the steps up to the
main level of the house and headed toward the kitchen where he found his mother
and girlfriend laughing, talking and cooking. A goofy smile crept across his
face as he watched them momentarily unnoticed from the doorway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m not sure it was a good idea to leave you two
alone.” He said as he eased into the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Remind me not to let you near any kitchen appliances
when we get back home.” Penelope teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh no! Mom you didn’t tell her…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What? She needs to know!” Fran giggled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Not that!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hush Hot Stuff there’s so many other things that
you’re good at.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek moved to Penelope and wrapped his arms around
her waist nuzzling and planting a sweet kiss on her neck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know that’s right, Sweetness.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay you two, enough.” Fran scolded playfully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The three worked together to finish the meal and
prepare their plates. The meal of smothered pork chops, mashed potatoes and
gravy, green beans, salad and homemade biscuits was incredible and brought
childhood memories flooding back. No matter how long her day had been his
mother always prepared a warm meal for them. She never cut corners and she had
a way of expressing her love for her children through the meals she would
prepare for them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Just as Fran and Penelope finished the dishes
Derek’s older and younger sisters arrived bearing bags of gifts as they filled
the room with noise and laughter as they hugged their mother and brother. Derek
introduced them to Penelope and his sisters grabbed her and embraced her like a
long lost relative. It felt good to be introduced as his girl friend and seeing
the shocked looks of delight on his sister’s faces as they responded in unison,
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“finally!”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We thought we’d bring our gifts tonight so they’d
be under the tree in the morning.” Sarah said excitedly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No, you just needed an excuse to see who Derek
brought home!” Desiree teased. “This is a first you know!” She said looking at
Penelope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What?” Penelope asked puzzled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My baby brother has <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never </i>brought anyone home before.” Sarah answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“See. This is why I wanted to stay in Quantico! The
two Nosey Nellies, here will drive you crazy!” Derek whined.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh, come on, Derek! You know it’s true! Right Ma?”
Sarah continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Leave your brother alone or it might be another
two years before he comes for a visit.” Fran warned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Exactly! Thank you, Ma.” Derek teased.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope sat and watched the exchange between Derek
and his sisters and couldn’t help but smile. So much love, she missed that and
she missed having a family that showed love so easily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan
Home – Christmas Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The house was quiet and Fran Morgan was up
preparing her turkey for the oven. She absolutely loved holiday dinners and she
had a traditional meal planned; roasted turkey with oyster dressing, baked ham,
yams, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, greens, corn pudding, corn bread
and biscuits and lots of gravy, and cranberry sauce. Her desserts were, peach
cobbler, red velvet cupcakes, pumpkin pie, and lots of ice cream. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek and Penelope were still sleeping and Sarah
and Desiree had promised to arrive around one to help her get everything ready
for dinner at three. Breakfast would be a no frills continental breakfast so
she could focus on the main meal of the day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan had arrived an hour ago; he had made it a habit
of coming by early each day to clear her driveway and sidewalk of snow. He was
nervous because he knew that she hadn’t told her family about them dating.
Scraping the snow out of the way had provided him an outlet for his nervous
energy today. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran Morgan and Stan Gordinski had not met on good
terms. He seemed to have it in for her son from the beginning. Derek had gotten
into some trouble as a teenager when he and a friend were attacked by a local
gang. From that point on he was on Gordinski’s radar and was constantly brought
into police headquarters whenever anything happened in the neighborhood. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan had been treated at Chicago General where Fran
worked when he had been injured on a case a year and a half ago. They were both
shocked when she was assigned as his nurse. To say that you could cut the
tension in the room with a knife when she entered the exam room would be an
understatement of epic proportions. Nevertheless, from that moment on he could
not get her off of his mind. He then ran into her at the movies and again at
the grocery store and figured that he was either being tortured or it was a
sign that he needed to ask her out. He was shocked when she accepted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran shocked herself when she accepted his
invitation to dinner. This man had given her son hell but there was something
about him that made her give him a chance. There was a kindness and passion
behind the gruff hardened exterior and she respected the fact that the first
words to her was an apology for how he had treated Derek growing up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran had assumed that she would spend the rest of
her life alone; she’d loved her children’s father deeply and when he was killed
a part of her died as well. Her life had been dedicated to her children, which
meant sacrificing a part of her life that she had convinced herself that she
could live without. Now her children were gone living their own lives and Fran
had to admit that she didn’t want to live alone, existing on occasional visits
from her children who seemed determined not to give her any grandchildren to
distract her in her latter years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan entered the house through the back door, which
lead into the kitchen where Fran was mixing the ingredients for her cornbread.
She glanced his way as he removed his gloves and stuffed them into his coat
pocket; his cheeks flushed from the cold outside. Smiling she poured him a mug
of coffee and turned to face him as he approached. Kissing her lightly on the
lips he took the mug from her hand and as he looked deeply into her eyes took a
long sip from the hot steaming cup.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m not staying long. I don’t want your son
getting any ideas if he sees me here this early in the morning.” He said taking
another sip of coffee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He and Penelope are sound asleep. Besides, I’m a grown
woman and if my son sees my gentleman friend here in the morning that’s my
business.” She smiled kissing him gently on the lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, that’s what you say now but you know as well
as I do that you would have a heart attack if Derek were to walk in on us right
now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran smiled and playfully grabbed the mug from Stan
and placed it on the counter behind her, then she wrapped her arms around his
neck as he pulled her close to him as they lost themselves in a long passionate
kiss.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran sighed. “When did the roles reverse?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek never could sleep when his mother was in the
kitchen cooking Christmas dinner. The smells of sage and the other incredible
spices pricked his senses and roused him from his slumber. He glanced over at
Penelope who was still asleep and quietly eased himself from the bed. Tossing
on a t-shirt and sweatpants he tipped out of the room in search of free samples
of his mother’s fixings. As he rubbed the sleep from his eyes and rounded the
corner to the kitchen he stopped dead in his tracks at the sight before him.
There were no words and no amount of inner strength to keep him from losing it
at the sight before him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“OH, HELL NO!!! MOM!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek! Baby!” Fran shrieked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek!” Stan stammered red-faced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What the hell is going on here?” Derek shouted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran quickly pulled away from Stan and approached
Derek grabbing his arm. Derek jerked away and stepped back mouth opened in
shock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mom! Answer me! What’s he doing here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan stood there wishing he could disappear or
crawl under a very large rock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Calm down…let me…us explain!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No! Mom I know your lonely…I get it…but are you
this desperate?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Now hold on, Derek, that’s hitting below the
belt.” Stan interjected.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek shot a death-glare at Stan that froze him in
his tracks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Please, Derek, lower your voice! This is still my
house!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mom, this man made my life a living hell and
your…your… oh, DAMN, please don’t tell me you’re sleeping with him, Ma!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Who I am or am not sleeping with, young man is
none of your business!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, look your mom and I love each other. A lot
has happened since you’ve been home.” Stan said a little calmer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why are you talking right now? I don’t want to
hear anything you have to say, Gordinski!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek! Stop it right now!” Fran then turned to
Stan. “Maybe you should leave. I need to talk to my son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See you later for dinner?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She planted a tender kiss on his lips and walked
him to the door. Watching, Derek shook his head in disgust.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh, hell no! This cannot be happening!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Awakened by the commotion, Penelope sleepily comes
around the corner to see Derek in a rage as his mother is closing the back
door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What is going on in here?” Penelope asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My mom was so busy in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">my</i> business that she forgot to tell me that’s she’s sneaking around
with my worst enemy!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran red-faced approaches the couple.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We are not sneaking!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No? Does Sarah and Desiree know about this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Exactly! Then you’re sneaking around!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, baby, let your mother explain.” Penelope
said cautiously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“There’s nothing to explain. Mom, I can’t believe
it! You and Stan Gordinski?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you but you haven’t been
home for a visit in two years. I didn’t want to tell you over the phone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was inconsolable. He rubbed both of his hands
over his head and neck and paced the small kitchen. Penelope hadn’t seen him
this made in a long time and it scared her. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ve got to get out of here.” Derek grumbled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek left the kitchen and headed to his bedroom
slamming the door behind him leaving a humiliated Fran and Penelope staring
after him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Upward
Bound Youth Center – An hour later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek is shooting baskets alone in the indoor gym
of the Youth Center. Since Carl Buford’s incarceration, Derek’s family along
with Damian Walters mother have run the center so it was easy getting access to
the center on a holiday. Christmas had crashed and burned quickly and he hadn’t
even seen his Auntie Vonne yet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek ignored the sound of the door opening and
closing sure it was probably someone he didn’t want to talk to, so he continued
to shoot baskets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We need to talk, Derek.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I think we’re a little late on the talking.” He
growled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s never too late to talk.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek didn’t respond as he kept shooting basket
after basket.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I was wrong.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Brick!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I was wrong about you all those years ago when you
were a kid.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Swoosh!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You didn’t deserve what happened to you…with Carl
and all.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Swoosh!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Your mother loves you very much and she wouldn’t
do anything to hurt you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Brick!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I love your mother, Derek and I want to take care
of her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Brick!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek! Talk to me! Look I’m sorry!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek slowly turned, sweat dripping down his face
as he looked Stan angrily in the eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why my mother? Huh, why? Of all the women in
Chicago, why my mother? Haven’t you done enough to torment me, Gordinski?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s not about you, Derek! We didn’t plan this! It
just happened!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Nothing just happens, Gordinski!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek turned and resumed shooting baskets, more
like launching rockets toward the basket would be more accurate. Gordinski just
stood watching him release his anger on the rim of the hoop, better than him he
thought to himself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Gordinski knew that Derek would take the shock of
his mother dating him hard but he was willing to deal with the fallout. He
loved Fran and his love had caught him off guard but no one had affected him in
such a powerful way. Nothing and no one would keep him from loving her even if he
had to get his ass kicked in the process. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Brick!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You don’t have to like me or the fact that I’m
with your mother.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Swoosh!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“She’s happy…I make her happy!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Brick!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I make her happy…she makes me happy!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Swoosh!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek had to admit it; his mother seemed happy.
There was something different about her, lighter, something in her eyes that
was bright and it wasn’t just about him being home or bringing Penelope with
him. Everything made sense now. His mother, the woman who had grieved the death
of his father in silence for thirty years and raised her three children alone
was happy again and had managed in the midst of everything found happiness and
contentment in the most unlikely of places and faces. He couldn’t deny it even
if he didn’t want to see Stan Gordiniski’s face across the dinner table this
evening, but he was responsible for the gleam in her eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek grabbed the old weathered leather ball, that
had seen many years and hands and tucked it tightly under his arm and faced the
older man inches from him breaching his personal space and with deadpan
determination and sweaty conviction he spoke his mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t like you and I’m sure that I’ll never like
you. The thought of you and my mother together frankly, turns my stomach but if
she is happy and I mean truly happy then that’s all that matters in the end.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks, De-“<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Uh-uh…I’m not finished. If you ever hurt her in
any way, I will kill you. It will be a slow, deliberately painful death and I
will bury your body in the Chicago sewer system where the rats can feast on
your old bloated carcass!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan stood silent with a glint of shocked fear in
his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Have I made myself clear?” He finished.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan cleared his voice and took a step back and
took a calming breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Clear.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek turned back and began shooting baskets again
as if nothing had just taken place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan
Family Home – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran was visibly upset as she desperately tried to
distract herself with dinner preparations. Penelope stood by helpless. She was
so mad at Derek she could wring his neck as she thought about his childish
display earlier. She knew he was angry but she also knew how it felt to love a
man even though it made absolutely no logical sense. She thought about her and
Derek and how it took them so long to get their act together to finally admit
the feelings they had for each other. She had kept silent because she was
certain he couldn’t love her beyond a platonic friendship and he kept silent
because he was certain that his past would prevent her from loving him either. Yeah,
as she cut the vegetables for the salad, she could definitely see her hands
around his neck and wringing it real good!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Fran, I’m so sorry for Derek’s behavior…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Please, you don’t have to apologize for my son. I
should have told him long ago.” Fran interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope stopped her work and wrapped the older
woman in a comforting embrace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’ll come around. He just wants you to be happy,
that’s all.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two women bonded in that moment over tears and a
deep love for the men in their lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The sound of Derek coming through the back door
caused the women to pull away from each other as they watched him enter with a
remorseful look in his eyes. No one said a word as he slowly approached his
mother.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The new tears threatening to expose themselves on
her cheeks held firm in her eyes as he pulled her to him and held her tightly
against his chest. Penelope stood next to him bursting with love for this man
who held his mother so delicately and so obviously sorry for his earlier
behavior.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry, Ma.” He said his voice shaky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Me too, Baby Boy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope rubbed his arm lovingly as he shot a teary
glance at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Are you happy?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Very.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I mean really happy. Not settling happy but
happy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“After I lost your father…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He didn’t want to think that anyone could replace
his father but his mother had been alone long enough and he knew his father
would want her to go on with her life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mom, you don’t have to explain anything. I know Dad
was the love of your life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She pulled away and looked up into her son’s eyes.
He was right; no one could replace his father but that didn’t mean that God
couldn’t send another man to love her and cherish her. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes. Yes he was but is it wrong for me to want
love again?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No Ma, it’s not.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">After a few more seconds, Fran pulled away and
wiped her face with the back of her hand. The silence between the three spoke
volumes and they knew that things would work out just the way they were meant
to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Now, go take a shower, you stink!” She said
playfully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ma!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek headed out of the kitchen, Penelope and Fran
embraced and giggled at the man who would be boy as they continued working on
dinner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sarah and Desiree had arrived and relieved Penelope
so that she could shower and get dressed. It was noisy in the Morgan home;
laughter and teasing with Christmas music playing in the background and the
aroma of the most amazing food filling the air. Fran beamed as she supervised
her daughters while running back and forth to answer the doorbell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Stan arrived dressed in his Sunday’s best taking
Fran’s breath away when she opened the front door to let him in. She had
informed her daughters of her new relationship status shortly after they
arrived and they surprisingly took it better than she thought they would. Once
they heard that Derek had not killed Stan they seemed to be a bit more
accepting of the whole deal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek and Penelope were still dressing but they
could hear the others arriving. As Derek adjusted his tie in the mirror,
Penelope approached him and took over the task.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You ready for this, Handsome?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Whatever happened to those Christmases where you
could just pop a frozen pizza in the microwave, grab a cold one and sit on the
couch and watch football all day? Is that too much for a man to ask for?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“When have you ever spent a Christmas like that,
Silly?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Never but I’d like to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Really, Derek?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Anything is better than what’s about to go down
out there.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh, come on. It’s not going to be that bad.” She
chuckled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope, my mom’s boyfriend who happens to be the
same man who tried to send me away for life, will be sitting at the table with
us! Oh, and then there’s my adoring aunt who helped raise me but now hates my
guts because I lied and told her that her daughter was dead, who by the way,
slapped the hell out of me when she found out I lied, will also be at the
table!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Baby…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No, Pen, really, we are about to have dinner and
we are the main dish!”<br />
<br />
“Stop it! Listen, you need to talk with your aunt and settle this. Besides, it
will make your mother really happy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t even play the mother card Baby Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She smiled and patted his chest as she finished
adjusting his tie.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“All done. Now let’s go out and enjoy dinner.
You’re mother worked really hard to make everything perfect.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What did I tell you about playing the mother card
Baby Girl?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh hush!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She playfully grabbed his hand and pulled him
toward the bedroom door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m telling you that frozen pizza and beer is
sounding real good about now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The table was set with Fran’s beautiful family china.
The food was placed just like a print ad in a magazine. Fran made sure that all
of the new “family” was introduced to the old. Smiles and glances where shared
as everyone found their assigned seats around the table. Derek had for the most
part avoided his aunt but was happy when he received a warm greeting from his
cousin. He was also pleased that his cousin’s son, Anthony still remembered him
and in fact, insisted on sitting next to him which threw a kink in Fran’s well
planned seating arrangement. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Surprisingly, dinner went well with everyone catching
up and trying their best to be pleasant. Penelope marveled at Derek’s family
and even in spite of recent conflicts they obviously loved each other. After
dinner everyone found places to settle and relax and it gave Penelope a chance
to chat with Derek’s cousin Cindi and his sisters. Fran and Stan remained in
the kitchen to clean up and conveniently Yvonne and Derek were left alone in
the living room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek wanted to make a hasty retreat but there was
no where to go without being obvious about not wanting to be alone with his
aunt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s good seeing you Derek.” She said
unconvincingly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, you too, Auntie Vonne. How’ve you been?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Better now that my baby girl is home.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek sat down on the couch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good. I’m glad to hear it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Yvonne joined him on the couch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, listen. I owe you an apology. I said some
pretty harsh things to you the last time I saw you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Auntie Vonne, I was wrong for lying to you. I’m
the one who should apologize.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know you thought you were doing the right thing,
but Derek you don’t get to say what’s best for me. I needed the truth about
Cindi, no matter what it was.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know that now. It’s just that I saw what it was
doing to you; you weren’t eating, or going out, you weren’t taking your
medication, it was killing you. I couldn’t let that happen; not if I could do
something, anything!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You’ve always wanted to take care of everybody but
there are some things you can’t take care of.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Yvonne grabbed his hands and held them in hers
until he looked at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Listen to me, Derek, it’s not your fault what
happened to Cindi…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“But it was, Auntie. If I hadn’t convinced her to
leave Chicago none of this would have happened!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, Cindi was taken before she even left
Chicago, you know this!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I just should have done more!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She knew he blamed himself for Cindi’s
disappearance, which made it so easy for him to accept the harsh words she had
spit out at him. She had been so angry with him but she didn’t mean what she
said about not wanting to see him again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“There was nothing more you could have done. I’m so
sorry I made you feel like it was your fault.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“When it was all over and you all left the station
without me, I never felt so alone in my life; like even though I’d brought her
home I still lost my family in the process.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You can never lose us, okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Besides, in case you haven’t noticed your nephew
is crazy about you. In fact, he’s talking about becoming a cop or FBI agent
when he grows up!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek shot a glance at Anthony seated near the
fireplace looking at all of the wrapped presents under the tree. As if on cue,
the little boy jumped to his feet and scurried over to his grandmother and
Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Grandma, can we open presents now? Please?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Yvonne smiled at Anthony and then Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sound familiar?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Fran began rounding up everyone to open presents.
As Fran and Stan read the labels and passed out the gifts, Derek felt full;
he’d missed being around his family. Life and work had made it easy to be
absent but it didn’t replace what every one of these people, well almost
everyone, meant to him. No matter what was going on between them life was too
short to let distance and misunderstandings divide them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He pulled Penelope closer she smiled and planted a
tender kiss on his lips. She was glad to be with him for Christmas in his
family’s home. This is what she had longed for and now here she was with Derek,
the love of her life; their first Christmas of hopefully many together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">This was what Christmas was all about, family, no matter
how it looked family was family, period. He silently promised himself that he
would even try to accept his mother’s relationship with Stan Gordinski although
he wasn’t sure how long it would take his stomach to stop wrenching at the
thought of the two of them together, nevertheless if he wanted his mother to
have the happiness like he had found with Penelope he had to shut up and let
things work themselves out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">In spite of all the unexpected drama, he was
happier than he had been in his life. The year had been filled with tragedy,
and drama and pure hell but it had also been miraculously salvaged by the love
of a wonderful woman who loved him and whom he loved beyond any explanation. He
knew he didn’t deserve her but he knew enough to know that she was his God
given solace. No, Derek still wasn’t a religious man and spiritually he was
still struggling day to day, but he definitely knew that surviving this year
had absolutely nothing to do with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He smiled and pulled Penelope even closer and as he
looked around the room he had to admit that this was much better than frozen
pizza and beer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">******************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Without a
family, man, alone in the world, trembles with the cold.” – Andre Maurois<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br />
THE END...</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-72708715866063689362013-12-11T20:50:00.000-08:002014-03-26T14:45:01.791-07:00Duty Calls<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana;">As Derek
struggles to put the past behind him another tragedy strikes close to home.
Will this be the moment that breaks him or will he begin to understand that
there are just some things that are beyond his control.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">FBI
Headquarters/Gym, Quantico, VA –Saturday morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The loud blast and piercing pain ringing in his
ears would drastically change the course of his day. This wasn’t how his day
was supposed to end or begin. He only wanted to stretch his worn and neglected
muscles and work on forgetting about the last few months of his life. He wanted
some semblance of peace but peace was once again delayed for another space and
time. He stood motionless, not sure of what to make of the past few minutes;
splattered with blood, stained with the death that he had tried so hard to
prevent. Five steps, just five steps he had calculated and indeed he’d been
correct but it didn’t matter because he was still standing in the middle of the
room bloody and a witness to the senseless suicide of Erin Strauss.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She had come there to kill him and even though it
was against her will she had been on a mission to end his life. Now her body
lay zipped in a black bag stamped, “Coroner” five steps away. All around him
crime scene investigators, police and FBI agents worked the room collecting
evidence in plastic bags and taking pictures while he simply stood there trying
to explain what had just happened. He could see Hotch enter the room and pause
to exam the scene and him and then as if in slow motion he made his way over
stopping inside of his personal space and still he stood motionless staring
somewhere beyond the moment, beyond reality, beyond sanity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Morgan! What happened?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan tried speaking but nothing came from his
mouth although his lips were moving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Morgan, are you okay?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Somewhere in his mind he was laughing hysterically;
how could he be okay? He was standing here in the middle of the gym covered in
Strauss’ blood. He’d calculated the steps…five! Five steps…he’d counted them
from his gym bag to her hand! Five steps and he was correct but he still could
not stop what had happened. His mind kept laughing how could anything be okay?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m fine, Hotch.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan shook his head trying to erase the sight of
Erin Strauss with that cold blank calm stare pulling the trigger and killing
herself with the bullet that had been meant for him. She couldn’t do it even
though she had been ordered to kill him, but she wasn’t a killer so there he
was alive and now a witness to her death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I just need to take a shower. The CSI’s are
finished with me so I’m going to take a shower…” he continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Morgan…” Hotch interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m fine, really.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Suddenly the door burst open and the familiar sound
of click clacking heels rushed through the room. Morgan slowly looked up trying
to search his mind for a way to convince her that he was okay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh my god! Derek, Derek, are you okay? “ Panic in
her voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She wanted to grab him, to hold him but blood was
everywhere and he held his hands up and out to prevent her from getting too
close.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Baby Girl, I’m okay!” He said calmly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“But…but you’re covered in blood…what…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Tears spilled from her eyes onto her pale skin as
she searched him up and down looking for the source of the blood and wondering
why he was still standing if he was bleeding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s not mine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The blood. It’s not mine. I’m going to take a
shower. It’s going to be okay. I’ll meet you back at the office, okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ had joined them now staring in shock at the
sight before her. Morgan without looking back at his friends walked away and
headed to the showers. Garcia, JJ and Hotch watched as he left them standing
speechless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">****************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">No matter how much he scrubbed he still saw the
blood on his face, his neck, his arms, and his hands. He knew that he’d
successfully rubbed if off minutes ago but no matter how hot the water was or
how hard he’d scrubbed, he could see the bright crimson sticky blood on his
skin; even worse he could feel it. He remembered it feeling oddly warm after it had
splattered all over him and all he could feel was relief that it wasn’t his
blood. He felt guilty; the bullet was meant for him. Sykes had had a back up
plan in place way before he’d even met him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Strauss didn’t even see it coming. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Coroner’s
Office – Late Morning – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi stood alone staring down on her cold
corpse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had plans for dinner later
and he’d made reservations at her favorite restaurant. They were both happy
that he had decided to give her another chance. He wanted to touch her just to confirm
that she was really dead but instead he kept his hands in his pockets. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">***************************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi couldn’t believe that she was dead. She’d
gone through so much. She had conquered so many of her demons and fought to
recover from her drinking problem and get her life back. Her children were back
in her life and even though her drinking had destroyed her marriage she and her
ex-husband were now on good terms. She was perceived as a hard heartless crusty
dictator but he had known from the beginning that was not the true Erin
Strauss. Oh, they had their differences and had butt heads on numerous
occasions but he had managed to chisel through the tough exterior and find a
soft, warm and caring woman. He secretly believed that their relationship had
helped her to relax her hard-nosed adversarial stance with his team. Now, just
when things seemed to be turning around for her it all suddenly ended in a
flash of her service revolver.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi wasn’t sure how he would react when he saw
Morgan. He knew it wasn’t his fault; he had done everything he could to stop
her but…He knew Morgan and he knew that Morgan would blame himself; just like
he blamed himself for Emily’s “death.” There were very few times that Morgan
failed. He was one of the best agents he’d ever worked with and he put his
life on the line every day defending those who couldn’t defend themselves and
even though he’d been struggling with his own demons lately, Rossi knew that
he’d trust him with his life any day. Still, he couldn’t help wondering if just
maybe he could have tried harder, been faster or said something, anything to
prevent Erin’s death. Rossi knew that his grief was interfering with his
rational thinking. Morgan was more than a co-worker he was his friend, family.
Erin had gone from his boss and advisary to his lover and it was hard for him
to make sense of everything that had led to her death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The Coroner quietly entered the room and
respectfully kept her distance allowing Rossi time to complete his visit. She’d
seen dead bodies on a daily basis but it was always difficult when it was
another law enforcement brother or sister.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dr. Amanda Perkins had learned over the last fifteen years to be
unaffected by death but this one was sad because she knew the woman who lay
lifeless on her table and it would pain her to be able to quickly complete her
report: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Erin Strauss, 57 year old
female; cause of death, suicide.”</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As she approached the table, Rossi looked into the
familiar eyes and nodded and as he turned to leave he heard those gut wrenching
words, words he’d uttered countless times to the grieving families of the slain
innocent victims of evil. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry for your loss.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">These were words meant to bring comfort and perhaps
even closure. Now as they were being uttered for him he realized that they
brought neither.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters Conference Room – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team minus Morgan and Rossi were seated
silently around the table. Hotch stood before them briefing them on the details
of the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wasn’t sure how they
would react to Strauss’ death and Morgan’s role in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Internal Affairs office was already
involved and they all would be called in to talk about their relationship with
Strauss and Morgan’s relationship with Strauss and his recent state of mind. He
knew that the team would do all they could to protect him and his privacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They all knew that no matter what he was
going through it absolutely did not affect his ability to get the job done. He
wasn’t going to allow his personal issues to put his team in jeopardy and he’d
sacrifice his well-being and even his life if it meant keeping his family safe.
None of that would matter now the Internal Affaires office would do all they
could to assign blame to what had happened even if there was no blame. Like so
many others, they were always looking for a reason to shut the BAU down and
re-assign them all to other branches of the bureau.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Internal
Affairs - later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Gordon Martinson had been assigned the Strauss
case. He’d admired her since meeting her during his first days in the bureau.
He’d even tried getting assigned to work with her but had failed. To say that
he was irritated for being overlooked was an understatement. He envied the
other agents in the BAU for having what he wanted. Those agents represented an
elite highly trained and specialized group of agents and he wanted desperately
to be a part of the “set apart”. Now, he had the chance to bring one of them
down and prove that he was just as good if not better than any of them were.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Martinson hated Morgan most of all; he was the
total package, smart, strong, fearless and damn near indestructible. He’d been
hand picked from the beginning of his career with the bureau to be a part of
the BAU. It was going to be his personal mission to end his career and prove
that he had what it took to single-handedly shut down the Behavioral Analysis
Unit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan hated waiting and he knew making him wait
was all a part of the IA’s strategy. He also knew that he was being watched,
profiled, which he thought was rather amusing. He knew it was all a part of an
antiquated game that the bureau’s most hated department played that would never
work on a profiler.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Agent Martinson, a slightly over weight slightly
balding obviously frustrated man entered the room propelled through the door by
a sense of confidence and exhilaration; feelings that he hadn’t experienced in
quite a while. He relished in the moment as he slowly walked toward the agent
sitting patiently at the table. He slammed the file that he had carried in with
him on the table for affect. He became slightly annoyed when Morgan only
reacted with a calm smile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Supervisory Special Agent Derek Morgan thanks for
coming by.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t think I had much of a choice.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Martinson was now smiling as he took a seat across
from Morgan. Without saying anything further he began to thumb through the file
in front of him. Then without looking up:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You killed her didn’t you?” Martinson said calmly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You killed her and now you want us to believe that
it was a suicide.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Have you lost your mind? No! I didn’t kill her!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How did you feel about Erin Strauss?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I didn’t feel anything about Erin Strauss.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“She recently picked you for an undercover
assignment against the Verdano Cartel, isn’t that right?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, so what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Five agents before you lost their lives trying to
bring down Verdano.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Something like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You were nearly killed if I’m correct.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I was shot in the arm, nothing serious.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“But your cover was blown which could have resulted
in your death had your team not arrived in time to save your life…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look, I’m not sure what you’re fishing for, Agent,
but I did not kill Strauss.” Morgan said interrupting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Martinson was becoming frustrated at not being able
to shake the agent. He was good, damn good. Whatever the case, he wasn’t going
to rest until he proved that he’d killed Strauss. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“This is now an official investigation and I
promise you Agent Morgan that if I find out that you killed her, I’ll make sure
you spend the rest of your days rotting in a cell with the rest of the killers
you’ve brought to justice!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan shook his head as a slanted smirk crossed
his face. Suddenly bored and through with the nonsense, he stood and leaned
across the table.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Give it your best shot, agent.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan left the room as Martinson remained seated
at the table seething and with a renewed determination to win at all cost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters - Office of David Rossi –<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">David Rossi dreaded making the call to Erin’s
children. He had gotten to know them over the last several months and they had
accepted him as someone special in their mother’s life. He had been careful not
to force himself on them nor did he flaunt his relationship with their mother
in their faces. The police had already made the official notification but he
wanted to offer his support and condolences. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A knock on the door interrupted him. He looked up
as Morgan stuck his head in the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Dave can we talk?” He said softly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan entered without waiting for permission and
closed the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek now’s not a good time I was just about to
call Erin’s children.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I didn’t want to disturb you; I just wanted to say
that I’m sorry about Erin.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look Derek I know you would have stopped her if
you could.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I didn’t think she would do that. She had the gun
pointed at me…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dave saw the pain in his friend’s eyes but his own
grief made it difficult to offer words of comfort; he wanted to but all he
could think about was her and how she looked on that cold steel table with half
of her face missing. All he could think about were her children seeing the
sight of their mother disfigured and still, skin ashy and graying and wondering
what to do as they made arrangements to say goodbye. No, Dave had no words, no
words at all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Erin’s death was a tragedy and right now I have to
make a call that I’ve been dreading ever since this all happened, so if you’ll
excuse me…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course, I’m sorry I disturbed you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan backed out of the office. What did he
expect? Dave and Erin had been lovers for a while, hiding it from the rest of
them for months now. They’d all figured it out last year when Garcia and Reid
had seen them both leaving a downtown hotel. Out of respect no one had
mentioned it to either of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan
knew that he’d have to allow Rossi the time he needed to come to terms with her
death. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The BAU team had learned that very seldom was there
time to grieve, to heal and to forget. Just when they thought they’d seen it
all something else would happen. Death had hit up close and personal and yet
evil and another case lurked just beyond the next phone call. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the life they all had chosen but that
fact didn’t make it any easier to deal with the reality of personal tragedy and
hardship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The familiar announcement via text messages and
knocks on office doors summoned the team to the conference room and back to
work. One by one they filed in, silent, and weighted with the morning’s
incident. Morgan took the seat next to Penelope who was the first to arrive.
She watched him intently trying to gage his mood and worrying about how this
latest tragedy would affect him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek sat and immediately grabbed her hand, kissing
the back of it lightly and shooting a tender glance her way reading her mind
and signaling to her that he was okay. The new case would allow him a reason to
not think about Strauss, Rossi and what was sure to be a nasty complicated
inquiry by the IA who was out to get him and the team. He was going to be the
focus but the entire team was the target but for now the case had to be his top
priority.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Santa Fe,
New Mexico Police Department – Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Three women had been killed in the last three
weeks. Their bodies had been found in their homes in upscale New Mexico
neighborhoods. Detective Marc Hubert had requested the help of the BAU.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hubert had met Rossi several years ago when
he had attended a symposium in Oregon on Serial Killers; Rossi had been the
guest speaker.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Detective Hubert’s face lit up with a relieved
smile as Rossi, followed by the team entered the quiet precinct.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The two men shook hands and Hubert quickly
ushered them toward a large room that he’d set up just for them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks for getting here so quickly”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks for calling us in.” Rossi said taking his
seat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“In the last three weeks, three women have been
found stabbed to death in their homes. It took me a minute to realize what I
had here because the first victim was strangled and then stabbed post-mortem.”
Hubert began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What makes you believe the first victim is
connected to the other two.” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hubert began passing around folders with crime
scene photos inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The killer took the women’s wedding rings and any
photos of the women and their husbands that were displayed throughout the homes.”
Hubert answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team slowly looked over the case files
silently. Hubert watched each one of them as if he could see the wheels
spinning inside their heads.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“There’s a lot of rage here; there’s no remorse and
it looks like he took his time.” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The first woman was meant to be the only victim.
She knew her killer.” Morgan began. “The other women were killed because the
UNSUB enjoyed the first kill.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Are you thinking that the first kill triggered the
UNSUB’s killing instincts?” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That’s exactly what I’m saying.” Morgan answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes, I think he’s right.” Alex added. “Look at the
pictures. He strangled her first then after she was dead he stabbed her. He
didn’t truly enjoy the kill until he stabbed her multiple times.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He got a sexual release from the stabbing. “ Reid
added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He wanted more so he kept finding more victims
that reminded him of the original victim.” Rossi said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, so what do we do now?” Hubert asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We start digging. We need to find out who hated
our first victim enough to kill her.” Hotch added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ll call Garcia.” Morgan offered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – a while later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey Baby Boy, what can I do you for?” Garcia
smiled into the call.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey Baby Girl, I need you to do some digging for
me.” Morgan started.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’d dig to China if you wanted me to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, I know you would but right now all I need is
to see what you can find out about our three victims. We think the first was
the only intended victim until the UNSUB realized that he enjoyed the killing,
the stabbing specifically.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Creepy! Like he got off stabbing them?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Something like that.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan hated having to draw her into the depravity
and ugliness of their cases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Listen, I need to find out if these ladies had
anything in common; friends, family groups, affiliations, anything.” He added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ll hit you back in a flash, my Sweet.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks Garcia.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia went to work typing, hunting and doing what
only Garcia could do. She was the best at finding things that had been buried
deep in cyberspace. After a few minutes, she was able to discover that none of
the three women knew each other nor did they have any connection whatsoever
except that they had similar physical characteristics, blonde, physically fit
and they were extremely attractive women in their early forties.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The first victim, Anastasia Cargo, 44 had recently
admitted to having an affair with her trainer. According to her husband Marco,
she’d broken off the affair in hopes of saving her marriage. Marco had a
history of domestic violence so of course he was on the top of the BAU’s list
of suspects.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Santa Fe
Police Department – later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan and Rossi were interrogating Marco Cargo.
Rossi was irritated that Hotch had insisted that he and Derek partner on
dealing with Cargo. He wanted some distance from Morgan until he was able to
get a grip on his emotions. He knew Derek was as much a victim as Strauss was but
still he was clearly struggling. Hotch knew that his two agents needed to
settle any animosity between them. The team could not function without it.
Their lives depended on it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So, it must have really pissed you off when your
wife admitted to cheating on you.” Rossi started playing the bad cop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What do you think?” Cargo responded angrily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan stood silently at the door watching Cargo’s
reactions to Rossi’s questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Did she start looking else where because you
couldn’t satisfy her? Is that why you stabbed her thirteen times? Did that get
you off?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Shut up! I didn’t kill my wife!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It felt good didn’t it? Better than sex! It felt
so good that you had to kill those other women the same way!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You son-of-a-“<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Cargo jumped up and sprung at Rossi who narrowly
dodge away from his grasp. Before he could go after Rossi again Morgan rushed
Cargo pulling him away and slamming him down in his chair. Rossi looked at
Derek in surprise not expecting such a violent reaction from Cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sit down or I’ll handcuff your ass to the table!”
Morgan shouted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Cargo breathing hard and glaringly staring at Rossi
struggled to regain his composure. After he calmed down Morgan released him and
this time stood directly behind him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I loved my wife. I wouldn’t kill her, I couldn’t.”
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then explain the five domestic disturbance calls
to the police in the last six months. Reports say that your wife called
reporting that you physically attacked and threatened her.” Rossi inquired.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It wasn’t like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look, Mr. Cargo, it’s not looking good for you
right now. If you didn’t kill your wife then you need to start talking right
now and convince us you’re telling the truth.” Morgan said playing the good
cop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We argued, okay, a lot. She would throw things,
break things and she’d hit me with anything she could get her hands on.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Come on Marco, you expect us to believe that a man
your size was being hit by a woman weighing a buck fifty at the most?” Rossi
smirked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That’s exactly what I’m saying. I have scars to
prove it. Look, I was raised to respect women. I would never lay a hand on
Anastasia.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, then why the domestic disturbance calls?”
Morgan asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“She would kick my ass and then she’d call the
police and tell them I hit her! That’s what got her off, Agent Rossi!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">FBI
Headquarters – Quantico, Virginia - Sunday morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Gordon Martinson was a determined man willing to
sacrifice his Sunday to investigate the death of Erin Strauss. Most of the
other federal employees were home with their families or else where enjoying
their precious time off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only other
persons were the security guards stationed in the front lobby and Penelope
Garcia who was in her lair working a case that had the rest of her team stuck
in Santa Fe, New Mexico.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Right now, Gordon was not a happy camper as he
reviewed the gymnasium security footage. He’d played it at least twenty times
looking for something anything to use against Morgan. The film told the story
in undisputable living color. Morgan had not killed Strauss. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Why in
the hell did they put security cameras in the gym? If nothing else the Bureau
loved security cameras.” </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He thought
to himself. His proverbial smoking gun had suddenly transformed into a kid’s
water pistol. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gordon leaned back in his
chair and began daydreaming about what could have been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“How
wonderful it would be if that little security footage didn’t exist.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Santa Fe,
New Mexico Police Department – Afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team were still chasing leads that led no
where; Marco Cargo, the husband of the first victim had seemed a likely suspect
until they had checked his story and found that he’d had numerous hospital
visits during his marriage that had always been explained away as accidents.
Since it was rare that men reported being victims of domestic violence none of
the caregivers suspected anything. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“40 percent of all victims of domestic violence are
men which totally contradicts the popular belief that most victims are women.
You don’t hear about it because most often the male victim is ignored by police
and there are very few safe havens for men to escape to.” Reid spouted off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What about the boyfriend? He could have been
pissed off for being dumped by our first victim.” Morgan added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I had Garcia check and he has a solid alibi for
the time period that all of the victims were killed.” Said Alex.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So we’re back to square one.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>JJ sighed frustrated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wait a minute Crime Fighters.” Garcia interrupted.
“It looks like our victims did have something in common.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What did you find Garcia?” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I ran a history of credit card spending and each
woman was a regular at the Neon Cactus which is an upscale coffee house
downtown.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, so we need a list of all employees…” Morgan added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…Oh Sugar I’m well ahead of you.” Garcia
interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course you are, Baby.” Morgan responded
smiling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The owners and all the employees check out but
there is something that may peak your interests.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What Garcia?” Rossi asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It looks like our girls weren’t the only regulars.
A Michael Stone was also there on the same days as each of our victims. He has
a record a mile long and spent time in the state pen for assault with a deadly
weapon, rape and petty theft.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And we know we don’t have to ask the next
question, do we?” JJ said confidently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You got it my blonde beauty. His address is on
your tablets as we speak.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks Garcia.” Hotch nearly smiled as he shot a
glance at Rossi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No problem. Garcia out.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Again Hotch sent Morgan and Rossi out together to
pick up Michael Stone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rossi quickly
headed to the SUV as Morgan trailed behind him. Morgan’s phone rang and he felt
a sense of relief when he saw Garcia’s face flash across the screen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hello my Sweet. How are you?” She waited holding
her breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m fine Baby Girl. Stop worrying.” He reassured
her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ask me to walk on water, that would be a helluva
lot easier, Hot Stuff. How’s Rossi doing?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Quiet. I think he blames me for Strauss’ death.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“They were close, they had a thing.” She said
softly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah I know. He’s hurting I get it. I can’t
imagine how I would feel if something happened to you…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Nothing is going to happen to me.” She could hear
the pain and guilt in his voice. “<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Give him time. He has to grieve and that takes
time. You know that better than anyone.” She added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He knew she was right. He took a deep breath and
exhaled. He thought to himself how he’d give anything to be back in Quantico
but duty called and he had to push through and solve this case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I gotta go Rossi’s waiting for me outside.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Be safe my Love.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I love you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I love you too.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Michael Stone – a few minutes later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Like their last time out, the ride to Michael
Stone’s house was quiet. Both men were hurting and preoccupied. Rossi regretted
not telling Strauss that he loved her. They had both decided to take things
slow. He was willing to delay those words and she had too. It didn’t matter
though because they had already fallen hard for each other. He kept seeing her
on the Coroner’s table and kept replaying his call to her children. He imagined
Morgan trying to keep Erin from pulling the trigger and coming up short as she
ended her life right before his eyes. He wanted to say something to him because
he knew that his friend would be haunted by guilt. He also knew that Morgan
would be convinced that he blamed him for her death. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan and Rossi approached the house; it was dark
and quiet and no one answered their knock or the doorbell. Morgan shot a look
at Rossi just as he kicked the door in. Still no sound was heard as they split
up and began searching the cold damp cluttered home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi rummaged through the drawers in the bedroom
while Morgan searched the kitchen. Stumbling on a loose floorboard in the back
corner of the room, he called out for Morgan to join him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just as Morgan approached, Rossi was
retrieving an old cigar box that had been hidden and he opened it to find
women’s wedding and engagement rings. He also found shredded wedding pictures
under the floor as well. They’d found their UNSUB and it looked like his
killing had started long before Anastasia Cargo. They had been wrong in
thinking she was their first yet still there was something about her that stood
out from the other two recent victims.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We were wrong Rossi. Anastasia wasn’t the first
victim. There must be thirty rings here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So why the change in M.O. from the other two?”
Rossi asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He knew her maybe? Or he wasn’t getting the same
satisfaction from his original method of killing?” Morgan guessed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We need to find the other victims and see how he
killed them. My guess is he raped and strangled them.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ll call Hotch.” Morgan offered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two headed for the door as Morgan called Hotch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hotch, he’s not here.” Morgan said into the phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He’s definitely our UNSUB; he kept
trophies…there’s at least thirty wedding rings he had hidden in the floorboards
of his bedroom.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then Anastasia wasn’t the first.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Rossi and I think he strangled her and became
frustrated because it didn’t give him the sexual release he needed so out of
anger he started stabbing her even after he had already killed her. When he got
the release he wanted that became his new killing method.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Exactly.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s probably already found his next victim. Get back
to the precinct as soon as you can.” Hotch ordered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The ride back to the precinct wasn’t as quiet as
before; nothing like a break in a case to thaw the chill in the air. Morgan and
Rossi were fully engaged and for a brief moment Strauss’ death was not on the
forefront of their minds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">FBI
Headquarters Office of Agent Martinson – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The coroner’s report had listed the cause of death
as suicide by gunshot wound to the head. Martinson refused to accept this
defeat. The security footage was the nail in his revenge coffin and he was not
having it. He knew that he could easily build a case against Morgan or any of
his team members for that matter; Strauss’s drinking problem had been
discovered by Morgan and her sending him undercover against one of the
deadliest Drug lord’s alive could easily be seen as an act of payback. It would
be so easy to plant doubt in the minds of his superiors and set the groundwork
for destroying Agent Morgan’s career and the BAU.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Martinson was desperate, and he was tired of
being overlooked and disregarded. He was just as good as those pampered,
over-paid prima donnas and he was going to prove it if it was the last thing he
ever did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, he sat contemplating his
next move; pressing play and watching the footage for the umpteenth time, he
wondered if he had the guts and determination to do what had to be done, then
as he watched Strauss pull the trigger he uttered to himself, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Security footage? What security footage?”</i>
Then suddenly the screen was covered with snowy static as a wide satisfied grin
crossed the face of Agent Gordon Martinson.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Santa Fe,
New Mexico Airport – Monday Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team was headed home; they had closed the case
and arrested Michael Stone for the deaths of the three New Mexico women.
Afterwards the evidence would be used to pursue the other suspected victims.
Morgan and Rossi had managed to work together to do what they did best, catch
the bad guys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pain of Strauss’s
death hadn’t subsided for either of the men but they knew that the job of
stopping evil was nonstop and when duty called they had to set aside any and everything;
they both had become quite good at doing so and at great cost; for Rossi failed
marriage after failed marriage and for Morgan he had not until now considered
letting anyone into his life. But in the end they loved what they did and it
was days like this that convinced them it had all been worth it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan and Rossi had gotten to the latest victim’s
home just before Stone had killed her. The grateful tears and hugs expressed
her thanks to them. Stone had taken his time collecting wedding pictures while
his victim lay bound to her bed. He had gotten away with his killing spree for
so long that he’d gotten over confident and sloppy. Garcia had discovered a
pattern in his selection process that narrowed the possibilities down to three.
The team split up and Stone was caught and his reign of terror ended.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Detective Marc Hubert stood among the team with a
bright smile of relief spread across his face as he shook their hands. Morgan
had slipped away from them and was standing a few feet away lost in thought.
After saying good-bye Rossi noticed Morgan and headed toward him as the rest
chatted with Hubert.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That was great work out there.” Rossi broke into
Derek’s thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Startled, Derek turned to face Rossi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’ll be good to get home.” Morgan responded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, I’m sorry I’ve been standoffish towards
you…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…Dave you’re hurting, I get it. You don’t owe me
an apology.” Derek interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know if you could have stopped her you would
have. I have no doubt about that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks man, I appreciate that.” Derek’s voice
trembled slightly. “I keep seeing her pointing that gun at me. I knew it wasn’t
her but all I could do was hope I could say something or reach her in time to
keep her from killing me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek didn’t want to break down not in front of
Rossi. Derek didn’t do the weakness or crying thing, so he turned his back to
compose himself before going on. Rossi watched him trying so hard to hold it
together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I can’t imagine what you must have been feeling.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Five steps…I figured she was only five steps
away…I remember counting them and I was right. Her hands were shaking and she
had tears in her eyes…I made it…I reached out to take the gun and then in a split
second she puts the gun to her head and without a second thought she pulled the
trigger, Rossi!” Derek shouted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, it’s okay. There was nothing you could have
done to stop her! This isn’t your fault!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why? Why did she do it? Why didn’t she just…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Just what? Shoot you? Is that it, Derek? You think
it would have been better if she’d completed the mission Sykes gave her?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan didn’t answer the question. He couldn’t so
he just stood silently looking out the window at nothing in particular. So
much had happened in the past months and it seemed he was the common
denominator to all of the pain and sorrow that others had suffered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The loss of Ellie was still fresh in his
spirit and he felt guilty for insisting that she move to California to live
with her mother. Tamara was killed because of him and Garcia had nearly lost
her life because she had fallen in love with him. How many more of his friends
and family would have to suffer and even lose their lives because of him. So,
no, he couldn’t answer Rossi’s question, he didn’t have the courage to say out
loud what he knew in his heart to be the truth. Strauss deserved to be alive
and as for himself he wasn’t sure what the purpose of him still being alive—maybe
that was the true punishment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Answer me, Derek! If that’s what you’re saying
then I’ll kick your ass myself! This is not your fault! Sykes is responsible
for Erin’s death, not you! You didn’t even know Sykes until two weeks ago! Erin
was a victim long before you came into the picture!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Rossi, if she had just pulled the trigger then
everything would be as it should be.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“There are some things…no most things we have no
control over. I know this comes as a shock to you but you have enough to worry
about controlling your own life and even that is not always a given. “<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What about Kevin Lynch, Tamara, Ellie, even
Garcia…?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What about them? If you think that you could have
changed any of that then you’re an arrogant son-of-a-bitch, Derek!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Rossi!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Only God has that kind of power and control and
you sure in hell are not God!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan looked at Rossi wide-eyed wondering whether
to be pissed or enlightened. One thing for sure he felt as if a light bulb had
just come on…dull and in a distance but it was flickering just the same. Rossi
was right, he’d been dragging so much guilt around and had been haunted by so
many “what-ifs” that he felt sluggish and heavy. Now, his friend even in the
midst of his own sorrow and grief had managed to yank him from the depths of
despair that had nearly convinced him that his presence among the living was
detrimental to the ones he loved dearly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ouch! Tell me how you really feel, man.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi’s face and voice softened as he drew closer
to his troubled friend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, just because we fight evil, we see
unimaginable things, things that most people don’t realize even exist. Just
because we are out there fighting doesn’t mean that we are immune to the touch
of evil. The closer we get to it, the closer it gets to us and we’re bound to
get burned. We can’t make sense of it; it just is what it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All we can do is get up every day, willing and
ready for battle.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek knew what his friend was saying was true,
Penelope had been saying the same things to him too, he was just too hardheaded
to listen, but now he finally heard the message. He looked up at Rossi standing
in front of him; the pain of loss was still there but he was not going to
surrender to it. So he wouldn’t either. Rossi extended his hand his symbol of
truce, friendship and new beginnings. Derek took his hand and the two drew each
other into a warm embrace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Now it was time to go home and all of them couldn’t
wait to get back to familiar ground, their own beds, spouses and children.
Morgan ached to wrap his arms around Penelope, and he wanted to tell her that
he finally understood what she had been trying to tell him all along. He didn’t
want to waste another day struggling and feeling weighted and guilty about the
past. He wanted the future; their future filled with everything good and
possible. He had spent too many years feeling ashamed for the actions of
someone who had made him their victim. He knew he’d still grieve the losses of
his father, and his childhood innocence and the people who he’d loved who had
become victims of evil. More importantly he realized that he wasn’t the evil,
no he was a fighter against evil and so he’d continue to fight the evil and
evildoers. He’d also tell her that he would keep getting up when he was knocked
down and he’d do everything in his power to fight the demons that visited him in
his sleep and fight the good fight against the dark powers and in the end he’d
relish and celebrate the victories of the precious sweet moments of peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">***************************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"><i>“Whatever
we are waiting for - peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of
simple abundance - it will surely come to us, but only when we are ready to
receive it with an open and grateful heart.” </i>- Sarah Ban Breathnach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">The
End…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-20530602522848024452013-11-24T23:52:00.000-08:002014-04-04T15:02:47.528-07:00Healing Waters Part II<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan – Wednesday 11:30 p.m.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek slowly slid out of bed hoping not to wake
Penelope. If she knew he was awake she’d worry. He didn’t want her worrying
about him; she’d done enough of that over the past several months. He knew she
had been watching him all day since he’d been back wondering if he was really
okay. Clooney’s strange behavior didn’t help matters either. He didn’t know
what was going on with him; it wasn’t like Derek hadn’t been away before. He
was fine now. Serenity Streams had made him better, whole again and he was
happy and ready to get back to work. He didn’t want Penelope or anyone else
worrying about him any more. Dr. Sykes was right if they worked together he would
be good as new. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek’s head was splitting. He couldn’t get rid of
the headache and he’d already taken the recommended amount of aspirin. As he
rubbed his temples he turned and watched Penelope sleeping her back to him. He
didn’t deserve her, he thought. No he didn’t deserve her at all. His mission
was to convince her that he was fine now, like his old self…if only the
headaches would go away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Two hours
later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The hall
just kept going, dark and narrow and quiet. All he could hear was the sound of
his boots on the linoleum tile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where
was everybody? <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Will
someone please turn on the lights? Hello? Please! NO! Let me go! Untie my
hands! I need to go home!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Shoot
him! Shoot him like I told you and you can go home! We’ll stop the headaches if
you shoot him!” <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No more
drugs, I can’t think when…NO!!!”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Just pull
the trigger and we will stop the pain…do as you’re told and we won’t hurt her!”
<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">He looked
down and noticed the gun in his hand…why was he caring a gun? <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ahhhhh!!!!
My head! Please make the pain stop! Where am I?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s the
last door on the right, just shoot him like I told you and we will let you go
home to her”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“NO! NO!
Don’t hurt her!”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek! Derek! Baby, wake up! You’re okay, it’s
just a nightmare!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek jerked and his eyes sprung open, wide-eyed
looking straight into the eyes of Penelope who had wrapped her arms around him
to prove to him that everything was okay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Pen…I’m sorry, Baby Girl.” He said collapsing back
onto his pillow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Beads of sweat sat on his forehead and his heart
was racing. She stared and held him tighter rocking until he pulled away from
her and sat up with his back against the headboard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You scared the hell out of me, Derek. Are you
okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wow. It seemed so real…I thought I was…” He turned
and saw the worry in her eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I thought they were supposed to fix the
nightmares.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Nothing can fix the nightmares, Baby. I’m supposed
to be able to deal with them which is what I was doing before…” He stopped
suddenly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m fine…never better. Dr. Sykes, he fixed me. I’m
fine.” He said as if his response had been scripted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope watched as his facial expression went from
fear to stone-cold calm in a matter of seconds. This time she wasn’t so willing
to brush it off. Derek was not fine and nothing had been fixed. An uneasy
feeling rushed over her as she pulled him back down and wrapped him tightly in
her arms. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What
happened to you in that place, Derek?” </span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana;">She thought silently to herself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Thursday
morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope headed toward the kitchen taking special
care in not waking Derek. As she started the coffee pot she couldn’t shake the
nightmare. He’d had them before and they had increased since Ellie’s death but
this one was different. The others were all variations of the same dream but
this one was brand new. How could he go to a place that was supposed to help
him and come back with a new more terrifying dream, she thought. She was at a
loss and wanted so badly to be able to explain it away but her gut wouldn’t
allow her to. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As she began cracking eggs for breakfast she felt
his arms snake around her waist gently pulling her against his body. She smiled
remembering how much she missed mornings like this. She relaxed against his
bare chest and closed her eyes wishing that they could just have some peace; no
more heartache, no more nightmares, just peace to live a normal life, well as
normal as can be with their jobs, but just peace to be able to love each other
and…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">His voice broke her thoughts as he turned her to
face him cupping her face gently in his hands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good morning, Baby Girl.” He kissed her lightly on
the lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good morning, my Prince.” She responded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What time are you going in today?” He asked taking
a seat at the table.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I told Hotch I’d be in around ten unless we got a
case.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m ready to get back to work. I don’t understand
why I have to wait until Monday.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey just enjoy it. Besides, you know Strauss,
she’s going to want to talk to you before she signs off on your return.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, you’re right.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Serenity
Streams – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dr. Emmanuel Sykes sat comfortably in his oversized
tufted leather chair. His early morning routine of hot tea and toast was
interrupted by the shrill ring of his office phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Dr. Sykes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good morning Doctor, Erin Strauss here. I hope I
didn’t disturb you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No not at all. How are you? I assume you’re
calling about Agent Morgan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m fine and yes, I am calling about Agent
Morgan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well of course you know that what we discuss here
is confidential.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes, of course…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“But I can tell you that Agent Morgan has made
great progress during his stay with us.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good, good. Is it safe to assume he is ready to
return to work?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Most definitely. I have no doubt that your Agent
Morgan is more than ready to return to work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you Dr. Sykes. I’ll let you get back to
work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sykes grinned as he hung up the phone. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“If you only knew.” </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He thought to himself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Emmanuel Sykes was a little man with big man
dreams. He’d struggled all of his life with feeling invisible among his family;
with a father who’d conquered the world of business aided by a marriage of
convenience to a wealthy socialite from one of Virginia’s oldest and richest
families.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Emmanuel was nothing more than
an inconvenience to his father who always seemed impatient with such a
sensitive child and his mother always looked at him with disappointment in her
eyes. Sykes thought becoming a doctor would magically win his parents approval
but not so. Their emotions were withheld doled out only in rare tiny pieces. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The human mind was fascinating to him and he
believed within the fragile mind laid the power to control the hearts and very
souls of man. Somehow if he could unlock the secret then, maybe he’d find a way
to make his parents love him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A knock interrupted Dr. Sykes’ thoughts as Dr.
Magee entered his office. She always seemed to make him smile but like everyone
else in his life he was invisible to her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You’re in early.” She sounded unusually cheerful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I wanted to get caught up on some things. Our
clients are going to want an update in a few days.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well good. I know you’ll be ready.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Indeed. In fact, I have a little test scheduled
for this evening.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Test? What sort of test?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“This evening around midnight Agent Morgan will
have an urge to go on a late night run.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How strange but you’re the doctor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes I am and before it’s all over everyone will
know who I am.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She looked at him strangely as he seemed to drift
into his own little world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – Conference Room Afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team minus Morgan was seated around the
conference table as Hotch briefed them on a request from the local police department.
Each member had a file in front of them and thumbed through it as Hotch filled
them in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Over the past three weeks the D.C. Police have
seen a spike in suicides. Detective James has asked for our help.” Hotch began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Since when did we start working suicides, Hotch?”
Rossi asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The pictures of three men hung side by side on the
board. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“These three had some similarities that caught
Detective James’ attention.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, if it really is murder made to look like
suicide then the UNSUB crossed racial lines. Our first victim is
African-American, the second Hispanic and the third Asian.” Reid pointed out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Do we have any other information on these men?” JJ
asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Not much. Since they were first ruled as suicides
the cases were closed.” Garcia added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Are we sure we have enough to start a homicide
investigation?” JJ wondered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We’ll need to talk to the families. I’d hate to
upset them when they’re already grieving.” Alex added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">D.C.
Police Department – Late Afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team had arrived about an hour later and was
greeted by Detective Ernie James. He was glad that the BAU had agreed to look
into these cases. No one would even listen or consider that three healthy men
who had never shown signs of suicide would suddenly take their own lives in
the exact same way leaving no suicide note. He was in hot water with his
captain but because of his stellar record, he was being allowed to pursue it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Anxiously, Detective James rushed toward Hotch
extending his hand and nodding acknowledgment to the rest of the team.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you for coming. I’ve got a place set up for
you next to my office.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Glad we could help although I’m not sure what we
can do. It looks pretty cut and dry.” Hotch replied.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I hear you. That’s what my captain keeps telling
me. He’s giving me two days to settle this and then he’s closing the case for
good.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well let’s get started.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch and the team headed to the area that was set
up for them. Like their conference room in Quantico, the pictures of three men
hung on a white board with their names and ages hand written on labels below
each picture. The men were of different racial groups, which for a serial case
was rare. That alone would have prevented anyone from suspecting any connection between the three deaths. As the team settled in and began reviewing
the case files, Garcia called and Hotch placed her on speaker for everyone to
hear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What do you have, Garcia?” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Our victims are Abner Stone, 35, a sergeant in the
Marine Corps. He recently returned from his third tour of Afghanistan. The second
victim Sergio Mendoza, 45, was a first responder during 911 and recently
retired from the New York Fire Department and relocated to DC. Our last victim
Victor Chen, 37 was a DC Police officer whose family was recently killed by a
gang member in retaliation for his brother being killed by Chen during a
robbery.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes. In fact, Chen was my partner.” James waited
for the fallout.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi shot an angry glance at Hotch then at
Detective James.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Is that why you asked us hear? To prove your
partner didn’t kill himself?” Rossi fumed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I knew if I told you, you wouldn’t come. But
listen, my partner did not kill himself! He would never do that! When I saw the
similarities in the other two cases I knew in my gut something was up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The similarities are weak at best Detective.”
Hotch added trying to remain calm at being manipulated into getting involved. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We don’t handle suicides but out of professional
courtesy we’ll take a look.” </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch paused and looked at Rossi and then the rest
of his team. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“And Detective…if there is anything else you
haven’t told us, you need to tell us now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The Detective nervously looked at Hotch with an
apologetic and grateful look in his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. There’s nothing else. Thank you Agent
Hotchner.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We need to interview their families to see what
ties these men together.” Hotch added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ve already sent their addresses to your
tablets.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks Garcia.” JJ chimed in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s getting late. In the morning, Rossi, you and
Alex go and talk to Abner Stone’s family, JJ and Reid you have the Mendoza
family and Detective James and I will go see the Chen family.” Hotch ordered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team headed out of the precinct and back to
Quantico. Garcia powered down her babies and headed to Derek’s.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan – Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was busy putting the final touches on dinner.
He wanted to surprise Penelope when she arrived. The team had spent the day on
a questionable case in DC and even though he was curious he was determined not
to mention it. He wanted the two of them to have a relaxing evening,
stress-free and as close to normal as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Just as he removed the lasagna from the oven he
could hear the door open and her keys jingle as she dropped them onto the table
near the door. He smiled to himself counting the seconds when she would round
the corner and enter the kitchen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, well what is my handsome god up to?” She met
his smile with her own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He met her as she stepped across the threshold and
took her in his arms planting a deep sensuous kiss on her lips as if it were a
promise of things to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I thought I’d cook tonight; my way of saying thank
you.” He smiled looking deep into her eyes still holding her tightly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you for what?” She was confused.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“For being here with me and everything else that would
take all night and into the morning to list.” He said releasing her and
returning to the stove.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope plopped down at the table and exhaled. She
watched him as he dished the salad into two small bowls and carried them over
to the table. She was encouraged to see him so relaxed, happy and he hadn’t
mentioned work or their case. This definitely was not like Derek at all. He
lived and breathed work, fighting crime and being an active part of the BAU.
She continued to watch as he placed the garlic bread and lasagna on the plates
and brought them to the table. Was this real? She wondered. Time would tell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You never cease to amaze me, Mr. Morgan.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She smiled and took a small bite of her food. He
watched her waiting to get her approval.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well?” He asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s delicious! I’m impressed.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you. Anything for my Princess!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek rubbed his temples, annoyed by a nagging
headache, and then took a bite of his food. He was satisfied that it indeed
tasted pretty good. They sat and talked enjoying each other’s company and each
secretly praying that this would be the beginning of better days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Much
later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">It was midnight and Derek and Penelope had been
sound asleep for at least an hour when suddenly Derek awoke. He had a sudden
urge to go for a run. His sudden stirring jarred Penelope awake and she turned
in time to see him dressing in his running clothes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek?” She looked at him puzzled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Go back to sleep, Baby. I’m just going on a run.”
He kept dressing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“At midnight?” She glanced at the clock on the
nightstand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ll be back. Go back to sleep.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek. What’s wrong? Since when did you start
running at midnight?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope, please it’s okay. I just need to go for
a run!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why now, Derek?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I just do. Please.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She watched as he tied his shoes and grabbed his
sweatshirt and keys. As an afterthought he approached the bed and leaned down
and planted a kiss on the top of her head. Speechless and confused she watched
him head out the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">How was she supposed to go back to sleep, she
thought to herself. What was she supposed to say when he returned and what
could he possibly say to make this odd behavior seem normal? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek stepped out into the cool night air and
inhaled the chilled breeze into his lungs. He wasn’t sure why he was out this
late at night but he ran towards the park into the night alone. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As Derek came to the end of his third lap around
the park he saw a dark figure ahead of him and slowed down. As he got closer he
recognized the small man as he stepped under the amber glow of the park’s lamp
pole.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Dr. Sykes? What are you doing here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Just checking up on my favorite patient.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sykes smiled as he looked into Derek’s confused eyes.
He slowly approached Derek who stood silently watching the man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You are my favorite patient aren’t you Derek?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek stood still, quiet and submissive as if
waiting for permission to move or speak; this was not like Derek Morgan, the
fearless profiler that would jump to action and kick ass at the drop of a hat.
Sykes began to walk circles around Derek as if he were examining a prized
thoroughbred. Still Derek stood trance-like.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m glad you’re taking care of yourself, Derek.
You’ve passed a most crucial test.” Sykes stopped in front of Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes.” He answered sounding as if his mind was no
longer under his control. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You do want to save her life, don’t you, Derek?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t hurt her, please.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good. That’s good. All you have to do is pull the
trigger just like I told you. Then you can go home to her, okay Derek?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">A few
minutes later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope pulled the covers over her body and closed
her eyes. The familiar sound of his keys turning in the lock made her heart
speed up relieved that he was home safe yet nervous as to what his state of
mind would be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Quietly he entered the house and headed to the
bedroom. He approached the bed and looked down on her lying quietly. He assumed
she had fallen back to sleep shortly after he’d left.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She heard the shower and then shortly saw steam
escaping under the door. Her nerves were going crazy. Derek was trying so hard
to convince her that he was alright but she knew in her spirit that he wasn’t
alright, not even close. Clooney had sensed it the moment his owner had come
through the door. With all that he had gone through especially this year he had
managed to keep his head above water. The recent cracks that she had seen in
him was nothing compared to what was going on now with him. She really couldn’t
put words to it and if she had to explain it out loud to someone they would
think that she needed a short stay in Serenity Streams. She knew Derek, better
than anyone and she knew when he was struggling, or hiding something or even
trying to protect her from something. This person that had returned from
Serenity Streams was not the man she knew and loved and what scared her the
most was that she was certain that even he did not realize that he was not the
same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The hot water beat down relentlessly upon his body.
His head rested on the wall, eyes closed as he focused on the throbbing pain
pounding just behind his eyes. He had to get rid of the pain it was driving him
mad. He found it hard to sleep and hoped desperately that the shower would help
him to rest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Friday
morning <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was still asleep when Penelope got up and
headed to the kitchen to start the coffee pot going. She was still bothered and
she welcomed a day at work. She even considered staying at her own apartment
tonight to give Derek his space back. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Movie nights always ended with one or the other
staying over but it had never progressed past cuddling. Their admissions of
their true feelings seemed to have butt heads with another crisis so they were
stuck again fighting another problem that was in the way of them addressing the
“now what” of their status as a couple. She ached to be near him in a real way
not just as a best friend but in her new place in his life. She thought his
return from Serenity Streams would be that new beginning but it was as if he
didn’t even remember his words to her. She almost felt sick to her stomach at
the thought that what he had admitted would become just empty words. What she
did know was that she wasn’t about to let their future go up in a puff of
smoke. Whatever happened to him while he was away was not going to take him
away from her. She vowed to get answers if it was the last thing she did in
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters Erin Strauss’ Office – Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope Garcia sat nervously twirling her fingers
as Erin Strauss got comfortable behind her desk. She had never had a reason to
be in this office before but she had heard that is was expensively decorated
and it was, quite impressive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you for seeing me this morning, Ma’am.”
Penelope exhaled to release the nerves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course. I was somewhat surprised to get your
call.” Strauss studied her intensely. “You said you wanted to talk about Agent
Morgan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ah…yes.” She suddenly began to think that this
wasn’t such a good idea. No one knew about her and Morgan being a couple; they
had decided not to reveal that yet, especially to Strauss who no doubt would give
them problems about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek…I mean Agent Morgan and I are very good
friends…best friends…and…I know that the two of you have had your…I mean every
since he’s come back from Serenity Streams he’s been…different…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Different how? Is he having problems? Dr. Sykes
assured me that he was fine…better than fine in fact.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No, no…he’s fine…he’s perfect…that’s just it. He’s
almost too perfect…I mean not that he’s not perfect…but…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You know better than any of us that he’s been
through a lot this year. More than anyone I know could possibly deal with, give
him time. Dr. Sykes has given him the tools to better deal with all the things
he’s been carrying around.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope knew that this conversation was a waste of
time. Just as she had feared, no one would understand that Derek was not
fine—not by a long shot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s been having crazy headaches…he doesn’t think
I know about them and last night at midnight he went on a run through the
park.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh really and you would know that because…?”
Strauss raised her eyebrow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh...uh…we had…um…movie night at his house and I
fell asleep…on the couch…and…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look, Miss Garcia, I’m sure he’s fine. As soon as
he’s back in the field everything will be back to normal.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Strauss smiled and stood to signal that the meeting
was over. Penelope quickly rose to her feet embarrassed for even thinking that
Strauss would or could help.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you for your time, Ma’am.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope made a hasty retreat to her office and
closed the door feeling helpless and humiliated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – Afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope welcomed the distraction of the
afternoon’s briefing. The families of the three suicide victims had been
interviewed and now the team was coming together to share information.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Rossi and I interviewed Abner Stone’s family.
According to his mother, since he’s been back from his third tour of
Afghanistan he’s been having some emotional problems, PTSD.” Alex began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“His mother said that he’s always been very
emotionally stable, focused and dedicated to his job. He went into the military
straight out of high school.” Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes, and she said until these last few months, he’s
never had any problems; nothing that would even hint at suicide. She said he
seemed…conflicted…like he was having some sort of internal battle.” Alex
continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“His mother started getting nervous when he’d
suddenly do something out of character like he’d get up in the middle of the
night and go swimming or he’d go hiking at midnight…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope nearly jumped out of her skin, knocking
over her mug and spilling coffee onto her dress and the file lying in front of
her. The team, startled, looked up into her panicked, wide-eyed face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Garcia! Are you alright?” JJ asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope quickly began to nervously clean up her
mess.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh! I’m sorry, sorry.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Garcia? Do you need a break or something?” Hotch
looked concerned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No, no, I’m fine….I’ll get this, please continue.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Trying not to be distracted by their Technical
Analyst fumbling and bumbling as she cleaned up her mess the team
continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Our interview with the Mendoza family sounds like
that. Sudden odd excursions out of the house, headaches…” Reid began before he
was interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Those words froze Garcia in her tracks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Headaches? Did you say headaches?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah, why?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Did any of our victims spend any time in a care
facility or specialized therapy group?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yeah Mrs. Chen said her son was ordered to go by
his commanding officer when he started to have some anger issues.” Added
Detective James.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">All of the victims had recently been through
counseling; a new progressive therapy program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh…my…God!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope quickly began typing on her laptop as the
others watched her in confused silence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh my God! I knew it!” She muttered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She kept typing, furiously unaware that the team
was worried that she had finally flipped out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Garcia? Talk to us. What’s going on?” Hotch said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Listen to this! Each of our victims spent a week
or more at Serenity Streams under the care of its founder and director Dr.
Emmanuel Sykes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What do we know about this Sykes person?” Rossi
asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia began typing again and after a few seconds
stopped. Her mouth dropped open as she slowly shook her head in disbelief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Garcia? What?” JJ nervously asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia began reading, not wanting to believe or
accept what was on the screen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Dr. Emmanuel Sykes is known for his controversial
and unorthodox treatment of mental illness. He’s been the subject of a number
of lawsuits and investigations and has even had his license suspended at least
three times after the mysterious deaths of several of his patients.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why is he still practicing? Reid asked<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Because he has found a way to label what he does
as some new wave aversion slash lifestyle alternative and he doesn’t need a
license!” Garcia was now furious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wait…Serenity Streams that’s where Strauss went!”
Rossi shouted. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He knew he wasn’t supposed to know that. No one was
supposed to know that except a select few. As Rossi put two and two together,
Garcia thought of Morgan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s also where she sent Morgan…Oh my god!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi quickly ran to the door, opened it and
stepped into the hallway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Strauss!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Meanwhile…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Agent Derek Morgan was behind the wheel of his
truck headed no- where in particular. His mind was cluttered with so many
thoughts that made no sense at all. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
had done everything that Strauss had ordered him to do and felt worse than he
did before Serenity Streams. He didn’t feel like himself, his head still felt
like a jackhammer had been running amok nonstop. It was hard explaining or
controlling his actions. He needed answers and he needed them now. Every time
he tried to force his mind back to the events of last week all he saw was
darkness and when he fell asleep visions of death and threats of death and
commands to kill haunted him. The only way to find out what really happened,
why he felt completely out of control was to go back to where it all began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">******************* <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope and the team focused intently on the
laptop screen, reading the truth about Dr. Emmanuel Sykes. Erin Strauss had
joined them as Penelope filled them all in on Derek’s odd behavior; the
robotic, trance-like responses whenever he was asked how he was feeling, the
struggle he had trying to appear fine and normal and his bizarre late night run
through the park. She told him about the headaches and the fact that Clooney
refused to go near him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“There are scientific findings that point to the
validity of a real unexplainable bond between man and dog, thus the phrase,
‘man’s best friend’”. Reid offered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Wait, are we talking brainwashing here? Sounds
like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.” Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Strauss, did you notice anything out of the
ordinary when you stayed there?” Hotch asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. Nothing. We had the normal group sessions, the
12-Steps…nothing out of the ordinary.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“With all due respect, but she doesn’t fit the
profile of any of our victims.” JJ surmised.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You’re right JJ.” Hotch admitted. “All of our
victims are men. They were athletic, dedicated men in service-type jobs,
focused and driven heroes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Exactly, these men where in high stress, high
stakes jobs They were extremely dedicated to protecting and saving others.”
Reid looked at Garcia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then why did they all kill themselves?” Alex
wondered out loud.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Because they were all heroes, duty-bound. Whatever
Sykes was ordering them to do went against who they were at their core. They
were lifesavers, heroes, not killers. Sykes could not play on any socio-pathic
or deviant behavior because it was not who they were.” Reid surmised.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So, they killed themselves rather than kill
others.” Rossi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Exactly. Their minds couldn’t process the command
that was opposite to who they were so suicide was the only way out.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Where’s Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He-he…should be home. He said he was working on
his basement today.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why would Sykes be brainwashing these men?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…And why these specific men with these very
specific characteristics?” JJ added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Assassins!” Rossi blurted out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Assassins?” Strauss looked disbelieving at Rossi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The top twelve world leaders are in town today for
the signing of an unprecedented peace agreement. There are a lot of extremist
factions who would love to stop that from happening.” Rossi continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You’re right Rossi. If this agreement is signed it
would expose many of the terrorist cells and make it nearly impossible to exist
as they do now.” Reid added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“JJ call Homeland Security. Garcia call Morgan. If
he’s the one Sykes has programmed to disrupt that meeting then we need to get
to him before he completes his mission.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Serenity
Streams –<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek sat outside the wrought iron gates of
Serenity Streams. He wasn’t sure how he found his way there but he had. He
needed answers and he wasn’t leaving until he found them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">His thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of his
cell phone; he didn’t have to look at the display to know it was Garcia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey Baby Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Where are you?” She tried to keep her voice from
shaking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I need answers…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, listen to me. You need to come to the BAU.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Not until I find out what happened to me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Baby, please, let Hotch and the team handle this.”
The panic was evident now in her voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">There was no response from Derek. Unbeknownst to
her, Derek had laid the phone on the seat next to him and left the truck to
look for a way onto the grounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek? Derek! Answer me, please!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Office of
Dr. Emmanuel Sykes/Serenity Streams<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The confident doctor sat behind his desk on the
phone with an important client. He was boasting about his readiness for the
upcoming mission and promising success that would earn him a large payoff afterwards.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was surprised at how easy it was to get onto
the property unnoticed. He chocked it up to Sykes’ ego and over confidence
about not getting caught. Still, there were no patients walking around the
grounds just extreme quiet. Just as he reached the old plantation style main
building one of the attendants appeared near the entrance. As he <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>stepped outside and descended the steps and
headed toward the opposite side Derek ducked down behind a clump of shrubbery
until it was safe to proceed inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As he made it down the dark hallway he heard voices
coming from a large office to the right. It was Sykes, the man who had turned
his life upside down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t worry Sir! I’ve got everything ready. That
meeting will never take place. My man is in position.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">There was a pause as the other side of the
conversation was inaudible to Morgan. He so wanted to burst in and force the
scrawny doctor to tell him the truth and make him undo what he had done to his
mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I understand. He’s passed all of my preliminary
tests with flying colors. (pause) I’ve made sure that he won’t be able to tell
anyone. (pause) I’ll call you when it’s done. (pause) What happens afterwards?
He dies.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sykes hung up the phone and suddenly realized that
he was not alone in the room. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan! What are you doing here?” Sykes was
panic-stricken.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What did you do to me?” Morgan began to slowly
approach the man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What are you talking about?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The headaches…the nightmares…What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sykes stood and looked piercingly into Morgan’s
eyes. A sharp pain hit Morgan with a fierceness that caused him to stagger. He
closed his eyes trying to shake off the pain and regain control.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What did I tell you to do, Derek? You do want to
save her don’t you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Stop! Stop the pain!” Morgan felt his control
leaving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You have to finish the job. Do what I told you to
do! Pull the trigger! Then I’ll let you go home to her!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Just as Sykes thought he had regained control of
his wayward patient, Morgan lunged forward and grabbed him around the neck and
slammed him across the desk sending papers, and everything else flying across
the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Stop the pain!” Morgan increased the pressure
around Sykes’ neck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sykes eyes bugged out as he struggled to breathe
and find a way to escape this mad man. Morgan didn’t care if this despicable
creature stopped breathing. He continued to press harder feeling his bones and
muscles giving under his grip. The little man was no match for him. All he
could see was red.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch, Rossi and Detective James burst through the
door. Reid, JJ and Alex had been sent to other parts of the building. Morgan
continued to strangle Sykes, the three other men ran to pull him off and
finally after several minutes of struggling they managed to free Sykes from
Morgan’s death grip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi and Hotch wrapped Morgan in a bear grip as he
continued to struggle. James pulled Sykes up from the floor not caring that he
was coughing and gasping for air and cuffed his hands behind his back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Finally Morgan began to settle down in his
teammates grip just as the rest of the team joined them in the office. James
leads Sykes out of the room and out of the building as he screamed and ranted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“This is not the end! Do you hear me! This is not
over!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan slowly got to his feet as his team
surrounded him with looks of concern and love. They admired him for who he was
and what he meant to their team and to the family that they had created over
the last nine years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He wanted to see Penelope. He knew she would be
worried about him wondering if he had snapped and killed Sykes or if he’d been
killed. He couldn’t stand the looks of concern in the faces of his friends
but he understood nonetheless. All he wanted to do was go home and forget what
he still couldn’t remember; a week of darkness, pain and lost time. He’d been
fighting it seemed to get out of a black hole to save her, to keep Sykes and
his men from hurting her and now it was hopefully over and he needed to see
her, to hold her tightly in his arms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters- Gym – Saturday morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek had arrived about and hour ago. The quiet of
the room helped him to focus. He’d missed his early morning workouts and he had
a week to catch up on. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He had been wailing away on the heavy bag when
Strauss walked in. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ve been in this room more in the last two weeks
than I have in all my twenty years with the bureau.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Strauss dressed in her business attire approached
him as he slowly began to remove his boxing gloves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Maybe next time I’ll dress for a workout.” She
chuckled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan grabbed his towel and wiped the sweat from
his face. He could tell that she was nervous and he wasn’t in the mood to
engage in idle conversation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ma’am.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I thought I’d find you hear.” He wasn’t going to
make this easy for her she thought. “You’ve been cleared to return to duty.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He stared at her intently as he wiped his neck and
shoulders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan…I am so sorry!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ma’am you don’t…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I seem to be saying that to you a lot lately.” She
interrupted. “I was wrong…about everything…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He didn’t know what to say to her. He saw the remorse
in the eyes of a woman who was always confident and fearless; a woman who was
hard and never pulled punches or apologized or explained anything that she felt
was justified by her title and the power it gave her. As he continued to stare
into her he saw something else, he wasn’t quite sure what it was, confusion,
terror, he didn’t know, whatever it was it was dark and untouchable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So what happens next?” An honest question he
thought.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t know.” She said. “You go back to work and
I go back to doing what I do, running things.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He shook his head in disbelief and stepped back
grabbing his water bottle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s that easy for you? You damn near ruined my
life! Hell you almost got me killed! So I go back to work like nothing
happened, my team second guessing everything I do and you’re okay with that?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t know what you expect from me, Agent
Morgan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You don’t know what I expect…from you?” A
frustrated smile crossed his face. “I don’t expect a damn thing, Strauss! Not a
damn thing!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">His words froze her in her tracks. She had nothing
else to say; the fiery look in his eyes made her shiver for just a moment in
fear. He turned and walked back toward the heavy bag where his belongings laid.
As he tossed in his water bottle and towel she spoke again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Her head had been hurting off and on all morning
and she was feeling a bit disoriented. Her hand reached to the middle of her
back where she’d been carrying her service revolver and pulled it out and aimed
it straight ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan turned slowly and his eyes went immediately
to the gun trained on him. Many were not aware of her abilities with a gun.
She’d been ranked as one of the top marksman in the bureau just under him. He
knew what she could do, that she knew how to use the gun and even though she
hadn’t been in the field in years he was certain that she hadn’t lost her edge.
He figured he had about five steps between him and the hand that held the gun;
five steps seemed like five miles especially if he came up short. His mind went
back to a few short minutes ago when he saw the torment and confusion in her
eyes and he prayed that it would now be his saving grace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Strauss, what are you doing?” He took one step
toward her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I have to do this. You didn’t do what you were
told.” She struggled to keep her hand steady.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Another step.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You don’t have to do it either.” One more step.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“If I don’t he’ll hurt them!” One step.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He can’t hurt them. We’ve stopped him. He’s going
away for a long time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Her hand was shaking and tears were streaming down
her face. Sykes had gotten to her too. He calmly reached for her hand; the
teary fearful expression suddenly turned to an ice-cold blackness. Then the
loud sound of the gun pierced the calm of the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">***************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Healing is
a matter of time but it is sometimes also a matter of opportunity. –Hippocrates<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The End…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-33911345848322037312013-11-18T00:54:00.000-08:002013-11-24T14:12:44.836-08:00Healing Waters<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">When
Strauss forces Morgan to see a therapist he sees it as retribution she sees it
as salvation. What will result will be something that neither one of them ever
expected.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU Jet –
Tuesday – Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The jet ride from San Diego was tense and extremely
quiet. Hotch couldn’t remember the last time he’d been this upset with one of
his subordinates. Even now his anger was growing as he and the team waited for
Morgan to board. The rest of the team kept silent not wanting to even look in
the direction of their boss. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As Morgan entered the cabin, Hotch looked at his
watch and shook his head. Morgan sat in the last row completely ignoring
everyone and the fact that they had been waiting fifteen minutes for him.
Without so much as an apology he plopped himself down, crossed his legs and
placed his headset over his ears and closed his eyes. He wasn’t in the mood to
deal with Hotch, Rossi or anyone else for that matter. He knew he was wrong and
knew that he was in big trouble but at that moment he didn’t want to deal with
it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch watched his wayward agent; clearly something
was wrong and he was skidding off the rails. Morgan had always by far been his
strongest and most controlled and focused agent but this year had been
extremely tough and Hotch worried that even for Morgan the events of the past
few months may be too much for him to recover from without help. With their
recent case, he’d taken chances that were reckless, putting himself in harms
way and any seasoned agent would know better. Morgan was showing signs that he
was near his breaking point and Hotch could no longer wait for him to get
better on his own. He was purposely jeopardizing his life and he was not going
to allow him to get himself killed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">After the jet had taken off, Hotch stood and joined
Morgan taking the seat across from him. Morgan refused to open his eyes or
acknowledge him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Morgan.” Hotch said sternly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan slowly opened his eyes and removed his
headset finally giving him his attention.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yea, what’s up Hotch?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What were you thinking back there?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look Hotch, I didn’t want Baylor skipping out the
back so…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So you charged in without a vest, alone! Morgan,
we are a team. We can’t have agents acting like Lone Rangers, and putting their
lives in jeopardy!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan looked down. He knew his boss was right and
he was so wrong. He had no defense for his behavior. If someone else had done
that he would have jumped all over them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look Hotch…I’m really sorry. I wasn’t thinking.”
Morgan said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan turned his head toward the window not able
to meet Hotch’s eyes. Hotch could see that he was struggling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I think you should see someone when we get back.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m fine Hotch, really. I won’t do it again. I’m
fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No you’re not fine, Morgan. You haven’t been fine
for months.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan remained silent. He was right. He hadn’t
felt fine in a long time. Most days it was all he could do to get up in the
morning and make it to work. Those he loved the most were constantly at risk
and he blamed himself. He didn’t care what happened to him. Maybe if he weren’t
around…He refused to complete that thought, it was getting into dangerous
territory. He would be fine he kept telling himself. He could fix it and soon
everything would be back to normal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch watched Morgan trying desperately to cling on
to the emotions and pain that he refused to share. He knew he wouldn’t freely
seek help. His trust issues still played a big part in his life. His entire
life had been a confirmation that served to solidify his belief that he
couldn’t trust anyone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You know if you need to talk I’m here.” Hotch
continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know. Thanks.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch sat for a few more seconds and then stood and
returned to his seat. Morgan exhaled hoping that he had dodged the therapy
bullet. He placed the headset back on leaned back and closed his eyes again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">FBI
Headquarters – gym – Wednesday morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek arrived early to the gym, earlier than usual.
He felt the weight of the past months on his entire body and he was physically
and emotionally exhausted. He didn’t want to run into any of the other agents
so he picked a time when the place would be empty. As he lifted the heavy
weights and worked every muscle of his body he replayed the conversation with
Hotch on the jet the night before. He was irritated that he’d been questioned
about his behavior even though he had acted irresponsibly. He didn’t know if he
was irritated because he was being held accountable or because he hadn’t been
as skillful as he’d thought in hiding the fact that he was emotionally in
trouble. He had worked hard all of his life to achieve all that he had acquired
and he’d worked even harder to be a man that didn’t need anyone, and even
though he valued the hearts and lives of those around him and took great care in
protecting his loved ones, he rejected the same care from those who loved him.
He absolutely could not tolerate weakness in himself. Carl Buford had made him
weak and he promised himself that if he escaped his life as a young boy he
would never allow anyone to make him weak again and so he kept everyone away
from his heart. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">After an hour or so, Morgan put on the boxing
gloves and began pounding the heavy bag that hung from the ceiling in the rear
corner of the room. Sweat dripping like rain from his body still he pounded,
over and over. Each blow seemed to have a face and a meaning and a place in his
life. He could see Carl’s wicked smile taunting him, touching him against his
will so he swung landing a solid blow that sent dust flying in the air, then he
saw the man who had gunned his father down in front of him, so he swung, he saw
the tragedies of his past, those who’d robbed him of his childhood and stole
his father’s life. He swung at the image of Battle who had shot Garcia and the
men who’d hurt her only weeks ago. Ian Doyle, the face of pure evil and who had
haunted Emily and caused her to run from him and the rest of her family. He
lost himself in the pounding and hadn’t realized that he was no longer alone in
the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She quietly entered the gym slowly walking toward
him as he pounded away his back to her. He didn’t see or hear her enter. She
chuckled to herself as she looked around the small, musty room because she had
in all the twenty plus years that she’d worked for the bureau, never stepped
foot in this place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I feel sorry for that poor bag. Anybody I know?”
She said announcing her presence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan was shocked when he turned and saw Erin Strauss
standing watching him dressed in her typical business suit and pumps. This was
not a place he ever expected to see the Section Chief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ma’am?” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morgan
removed his boxing gloves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan we need to talk.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay. I’m about finished I can meet you in your
office in a few minutes.” Morgan grabbed his towel and wiped his face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. We need to talk now.” She stared intently at
him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Fine.” He continued to wipe the sweat from his
arms and upper body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Strauss forced herself to focus on the reason she
was there and not be distracted by the obviously gorgeous man in front of her.
Morgan crossed his arms defensively waiting for what was to come next.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know we haven’t been on the best of terms lately
since…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…Since you sent me on that suicide mission you
mean?” He interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look, I owe you an apology for that. I know you
think I had an ulterior motive but…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look with all due respect, ma’am, I don’t think we
should talk about this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Agent Morgan, I heard about your actions on your
last case.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I told Hotch I didn’t want the UNSUB to escape. It
won’t happen again.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. It won’t. I think you need to get some help.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No you are far from fine. In fact, I’m ordering
you to get help.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Strauss handed Morgan a white envelope. Confused,
he reluctantly takes it from her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sending you to Serenity Streams for a week.
It’s the same place that helped me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What! Are you kidding? Just because of one case?
No way! I told you I’m fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m trying to keep you from making the same
mistakes I did by not addressing the fact that you’re in trouble.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan looked at Strauss and then the envelope and
began pacing. He felt his temper boiling. He didn’t want to go to therapy. It
wasn’t like he had a drug or drinking problem. He didn’t need to talk to a
shrink just because he’d hot-dogged it on a case. After all, it hadn’t been the
first time but he always got the job done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, I get it. This is payback. You weren’t able
to get me killed on that suicide mission so now you want to label me as a
cripple, no, no way, Strauss! I’m not doing it!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then I’m suspending you… indefinitely until you
see someone and you will not be allowed back until I’m confident you have
addressed your issues! Your choice.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Strauss, why are you doing this to me? I wasn’t trying
to destroy you when I called you out on your drinking I thought I was helping
you!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Trust me, it’s not about my drinking or you
finding out about it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Then what’s this about? I’m telling you there’s
nothing wrong with me!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“When you first called me out, I was furious. I
wanted to pay you back. When I went through rehab I spent my first few days
outraged. But it’s the best gift anyone could have given me. You, Agent Morgan
saved my life. I’d almost ruined my relationship with my kids, I could have
even ruined my career not to mention my health.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan rubbed the back of his neck and head. He
felt trapped and knew that there was nothing he could do but follow her orders.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m just trying to return the favor. They’re
expecting you at noon today.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She added.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Strauss turned and left the gym. Agent Derek Morgan
standing alone, furious and speechless watched as she closed the door behind
her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Lenny’s
Diner – One hour later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek and Penelope sat at a corner booth near the
window in silence. Derek was still upset and Penelope stared at him as they
both sat their food and coffee growing cold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Maybe it’s not such a bad idea.” She offered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek looked up unable to believe his ears.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What? So, you think I’m crazy too?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, you’re not crazy! This was going bad, she
thought to herself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You haven’t been yourself for a while now. The
nightmares are getting worse, your tense, your always in a bad mood and…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…And what?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, I know we said we were going to take it slow
but I thought by now we would have…” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She wasn’t sure how to explain to him that she’d
expected more since they’d both confessed that they had feelings for each
other. They had always been close but since Ellie’s death he’d been distant. He
seemed to be far away emotionally and she wasn’t sure how to talk to him about
it or help him. She knew he was grieving and things just kept getting in the
way of them starting a normal relationship together. She had no doubt that he
loved her, she loved him but they still seemed to be drifting apart and she was
afraid she’d lose him to whatever demons where tearing him apart. Maybe a week
of intense therapy would be the answer he needed, that they needed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What, tell me. What?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I thought we would have made love by now.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was mortified. He’d been so wrapped up in his
stuff, his misery that he had forgotten about the one person he loved more than
anything. He had forgotten that his life, his feelings didn’t just affect him anymore
but it also affected Penelope. He had been selfish and she had waited patiently
for him to come around and return to the man she’d fallen in love with. Now he
knew he didn’t deserve her. He looked into her eyes, filled with tears and he
gently grabbed her hands that were placed on the table. In that instant the decision
was made. He had to go not for Strauss or Hotch or his job. If he wanted a
future with Penelope he had to do whatever was necessary to be healthy. She
deserved that much.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Baby Girl…I’m sorry. I’ve been a selfish ass! Can
you forgive me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek I love you I just want you to be whole
again.” She said her voice trembling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m just afraid that if I allow myself to go to
those dark places I won’t be able to make it back.” He couldn’t look at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, Baby. You can do this I know you can.
You’ll make it back and I’ll be waiting right here for you when you do.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Is that a promise?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s a promise.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Serenity
Streams – Afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The limo pulled into the iron-gated estate. Strauss
apparently didn’t trust Morgan to get himself to the facility so she had sent a
car to pick him up. The grounds were lush with greenery and beautiful colorful
tropical foliage. The narrow dirt road leading to the plantation-style main
building creaked under the wheels of the long car. Morgan couldn’t help but
notice the quiet atmosphere the sounds of the birds seemed to be magnified and
echoed off the trees. It was odd that he didn’t see any other patients. He
expected to see old men and women walking around dressed in pajamas, wrapped in
seersucker or terry cloth robes and moving about like zombies, expressionless
drugged out and unaware of where they were. Instead all he saw was well-manicured
land and utter quiet and he realized that he had never felt so alone in his
life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Just as the driver stopped in front of the main
building, and came around to open the door for Morgan an older man dressed in a
gray pinstriped suit approached smiling. His smile was no doubt supposed to
make him feel at ease but it wasn’t working. All Morgan could do was look
around at the building and the property for a possible escape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Mr. Morgan!” The man said extending his hand
toward him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Without replying he reached and shook the man’s
hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Welcome to Serenity Streams! Please follow me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Reluctantly Morgan followed the man inside and into
a large cluttered office. The man motioned for him to sit at one of two leather
chairs in front of a desk. The man then made himself comfortable in the tufted
leather high back chair behind the desk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My name is Dr. Emmanuel Sykes. I hope your drive
up was okay.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan still did not respond as he stared intently
at the man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look, Mr. Morgan, I’m well aware that you do not
want to be here. In fact, you’re no different than many of our guests who’ve
stayed here. But I promise if we work together, you’ll appreciate your stay
with us.” He continued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Dr.</i>
Sykes.” He emphasized the man’s title. “First it’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Agent</i> Morgan. Second, I’m only here because it’s the only way I can
get back on the job. So, let’s cut the chit chat and tell me what I have to do
to get the hell out of here!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Agent </i>Morgan,
while you are here you will be addressed as, ‘Mister Morgan.’ Hopefully we will
eventually become friends and be on a first name basis but as long as you’re
with us we will recognize you as you, no titles, just you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan felt his blood boiling all over again. This
wasn’t going to work. He could imagine his hands around this man’s scrawny neck
and squeezing until he gasped for air. He quickly shook the vision from his
mind and tried to focus on getting through this first meeting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We find that a lot of problems are tied up in what
we have become, our accomplishments and how we feel others see us because of
our titles which in actuality have nothing to do with who we are at our core.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What the
hell kind of mumbo jumbo is this man talking about?”</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> Morgan thought as he sat there facing the man who
was now in charge of his life for the next seven days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Fine. Let’s get this over with.” Morgan
surrendered to being miserable for the next week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">For the next several minutes Morgan was given an
extensive tour of the grounds, the cafeteria, the chapel, the conference rooms,
examination rooms, the dozens of private garden areas and finally his quarters.
It all was impressive but it didn’t change Morgan’s mind about being there. He
resolved to play the game; he was a profiler after all and knew all the games.
He was sure that they had probably had a hand in developing some of the mind
games this place used on their “guests”. After he was shown to his room, Dr.
Sykes handed him a sheet of paper that listed the rules of Serenity Streams, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">no use of cell phones, no television, lights
out at 10p.m., no visitors, no leaving the grounds without permission, no
outside food…</i>it was confirmed…he was in hell!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BAU
Headquarters – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team was headed to New York on a case involving
the killings of three police officers. The atmosphere in the conference room
was tense and as Hotch laid out the particulars of the case, the rest of the
team sat distracted by the fact the Morgan was not among them. No one had
bothered to tell them where he was and Penelope hadn’t had a chance to share
the details with JJ, Spencer and Rossi. As the pictures of the three victims
were illuminated on the board it was obvious that Hotch wasn’t going to fill
them in on Morgan’s whereabouts unless one of them had the courage to ask.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Officers Terrance Malcovich, Omar Reid and Troy
Evans were found dead in an abandon warehouse in New York’s financial district.
Each victim had been sodomized and castrated then shot execution style in the
back of the head.” Hotch explained.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“There’s a lot of rage in these killings.” Rossi
observed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Judging by the fact that there wasn’t a lot of
evidence at the scene except the victims’ blood, I’d say this was a very
organized killer.” JJ added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“A very angry, and patient organized killer. This
was personal.” Reid chimed in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“NYPD needs our help. Anyone willing to kill cops
is extremely bold and dangerous. Let’s find him before we loose any more.”
Hotch added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team headed toward the elevators as Garcia
returned to her lair. She dialed Morgan’s cell and after four rings the call
went straight to voicemail. She knew this would be a case that would be right
up his alley being that he was formerly a Chicago police officer. It was odd
that he hadn’t answered his cell but perhaps he had already begun a session or
group. She decided to call him later if nothing more but to say goodnight and
remind him that she loved him and was routing for him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dr.
Sykes’ office – Later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dr. Sykes was seated at his desk reviewing their
newest guest’s file. He was impressed with what it contained and he felt
confident that they would be quite successful this week with one Mr. Derek
Morgan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A knock at the doorway interrupted Dr. Sykes.
Cameron Magee, one of the therapists on staff stood waiting to be allowed in
the office. A smile spread across Dr. Sykes’ face as he waved her in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Ahh…please, come in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You look happy. What’s going on?” She asked as she
sat in the same chair that Morgan had occupied only minutes ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Remember Erin Strauss, the FBI Section Chief who
was here about two months ago?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Of course. She had a drinking problem.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes, yes. Exactly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“She did extremely well with the program.” Cameron
added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, she referred a new patient to us. One of her
agents who seems to be suffering from a severe case of PTSD.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh. Sounds promising. Do you think he’s a good
candidate for our new program?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Most definitely.” He hands Morgan’s file across
the desk to her. “Take a look. He’s just what we’ve been looking for.” Sykes
beamed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The other doctor smiled as she reviewed the file
before handing it back to Sykes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He meets all of the physical and mental
requirements. In fact, he’s the best subject that we’ve seen come through since
we’ve begun this little, “project” of yours.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You’re right! When Mr. Morgan leaves here in a
week he’ll feel like a new man and we’ll have what we need to go to the next
phase of our mission!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I hope you’re right, Doctor. The last three
subjects that you were certain were perfect candidates ended up dead!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, not this time! Derek Morgan is just what
we’ve been looking for.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I hope you’re right. We can’t afford to lose
another person and risk being exposed. Everything is riding on this.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know that better than anyone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So, when do we start?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Immediately.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Meanwhile…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek walked along the beautiful grounds thinking
about Penelope and hating the fact that he wouldn’t be able to see or talk to
her for a whole week. He hated Strauss for forcing him to be here. He was fine!
This was a place for drug addicts and drunks and he was neither!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So far he had been able to manage his emotions
and the nightmares. Sure it had been a bad year but he was still able to do his
job. He’d even found the courage to confess his feelings to Penelope and they
were working on building a life together. He had to talk to her. He didn’t care
what the rules were he had to talk to his Baby Girl.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Finding a secluded bench away from the main
building, Morgan sat and pulled out his cell phone and dialed Penelope’s
number.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hello Gorgeous. I thought you’d forgotten about me
already.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No way I could ever forget you, Baby Girl.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So, how’s it going?” She asked hopeful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I hate it! They have all these rules, no phones,
no visitors, no leaving, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hang in there. You can do this. I know you can.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So what’s going on there?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The team is headed to New York. Three cops have
been killed execution style and we’ve been called in to help.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Damn! I should be in New York with the team! This
is so wrong!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Listen, I’ll send you the case file so you can
take a look. Maybe if you have some free time...”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thanks Garcia but I don’t want you getting in
trouble. I know Hotch told you not to talk to me about any cases while I’m
gone.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes he did but what Hotch doesn’t know…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“...He’ll figure out.” He interrupted. “Baby, I
don’t want you risking your job for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You let me worry about that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">There was a pause as Morgan closed his eyes for a
moment wanting to say so much to her but not really knowing where to begin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope…I’m sorry for how I’ve been acting these
past few months. You’ve been patient, supportive, loving and I don’t deserve
you. Can you forgive me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Derek, there’s nothing to be sorry about. You’ve
been through a lot but now you’re in a place where you can get better.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yea, I hope so. This place is creepy. I’ve been
here three hours already and I haven’t seen any other patients. If I didn’t
know any better I’d swear I was the only one here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Eww, that is creepy. I was thinking; I believe
Strauss really is trying to make amends and trying to help.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That remains to be seen. I better go, before they
find out I’ve broken one of the rules.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay. I love you Derek Morgan.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I love you Penelope Garcia.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan ends the call just as an attendant approaches.
The tall heavyset man dressed in white stops in front of him obviously angry
but without saying a word holds out his hand. Morgan looks up knowing that he
has been discovered and without protest hands the man the phone, more
confirmation that he had been locked down in the bowels of Hell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">New York
– Manhattan Division- Evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The team had arrived several hours ago and still
had not had a break in the case. While sifting through the evidence another cop
had been found murdered. Hotch couldn’t help but think that the team could
really use Morgan’s help. It always placed a strain on them when one of them
was missing. He hadn’t explained to the others why Morgan was not there and he
knew that sooner or later one of them would muster the courage to ask. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Strauss had decided to join them but she wasn’t
much help probably because she wasn’t a profiler and she never really fully
understood how they did what they did. She also had an ulterior motive in going
to New York. She had screwed up and she wanted to find a way to get back into
Dave’s good graces. The two of them had secretly spent time in the City alone
and she missed what they had begun to build together. She didn’t know how to
make him understand why she sent Morgan on that case against Verdano. Perhaps
she did want payback but she wasn’t ready to admit that she’d risk an agent’s
life just for revenge. She was angry when Morgan discovered her drinking
problem and forced her in a position where she had to address her problem,
still, it wasn’t why she had done what she had done. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rehab had shown her some unpleasant things about
herself that she had been avoiding for years. She had seen some recent signs of
cracks in Morgan that she would have missed had she not gone to Serenity
Streams. He was furious just like she had been furious but she owed him, owed
him her life and she wanted to repay the favor. Whether he ever realized it or
not she admired him and appreciated him for standing up to her and forcing her
to get help.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Serenity
Streams – Later<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan struggled to move. His hands and feet felt
heavy as he fought through what felt like a thick haze to open his eyes. He
looked around into the darkness confused unable to move, to stand. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Where was he?”</i> he thought. The haze
slowly began to clear and his mind tried desperately to sift through the
confusion and blackness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hello!” he yelled. “Is anybody here?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The room was silent, black and cold. No one
answered and he tried to think back to the last thing he remembered. The last
thing he could remember was walking back to his room after losing his cell
phone to one of the attendants. Suddenly a bright light flicked on over his
head and he struggled to adjust his eyes to the harshness that seemed to shower
over him then the sound of a door opening and closing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hello, Mr. Morgan.” Dr. Sykes appeared and smiled
in front of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What the hell is going on, Sykes?” Derek’s speech
was slurred.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I see the drug is still on board. Don’t worry it
will wear off in time.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Drug? Why?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Just something to help you relax. You seemed a
little tense earlier.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek looked down at his arms and struggled against
the thick leather restraints. His feet were restrained in similar bindings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Get me out of this! I didn’t sign up for whatever
sick therapy you’ve got going on here!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Now, now, Mr. Morgan take it easy. When we’re all
done you won’t remember a thing. Your life will return to normal and you’ll
have me to thank.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Out of nowhere two large men appeared dressed in
white, one of them was the man that had taken his phone earlier, and stood on
either side of him. Sykes walked over to a small cart with vials of a clear
liquid and grabbed a syringe and with one of the vials filled the syringe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Now, hold still, this won’t hurt a bit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan continued to struggle as the two men placed
a firm hand on his shoulders holding him in place. Morgan cursed and struggled
wishing he could have five seconds of Strauss’s time to choke the life out of
her for this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No! Don’t do this!” he yelled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The next thing Morgan felt was a sharp prick in his
right forearm before everything went black.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">One Week
Later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan – Morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope watched impatiently through the front
window of Derek’s home. She had missed him terribly and the team was still in
New York wrapping up the cop killing case. Her heart leaped when the long black
limo pulled up. Just as the driver opened the door for Derek she ran out to
meet him at the curb. He smiled and swooped her up in his arms and hugged her
for dear life. The driver moved to the trunk to grab his bags. Just as Derek
released Penelope from his bear hug, the man without saying a word handed him
his phone back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As the two walked toward the house the limo pulled
away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I missed you handsome! This was the longest week
of my life.” Penelope sighed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I missed you too.” Derek responded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two walked into the house and immediately Derek
relaxed. Home at last. Clooney padded up to his owner sniffing and walking
around him. Derek reached out to touch him but Clooney nipped at his hand and
backed away. Puzzled, Derek approached him again to pet the overgrown puppy and
again Clooney rejected him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s wrong, boy? I haven’t been gone that long
have I?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope watched this odd encounter but for the
moment brushed it off. She was just happy he was home. She had prepared a
wonderful dinner, Derek’s favorite and lots of wine. He followed her into the
kitchen and sat at the small kitchen table while she finished preparing the
meal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two ate in relative silence. Penelope watched
him. He looked rested, happy, in a good mood, yet something was off. He seemed
good, too good and she wasn’t buying it more than that Clooney wasn’t buying it
either.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">His head was splitting. He’d been bothered by a
headache for the last two days and he tried explaining it away as just the
stress of being forced to be in that crazy place against his will for the past
week. Now he was home, with Penelope, he was happy, healthy and ready to get
back to work and his normal life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“So tell me about the case. They took my phone
before I could get the file you sent me.” He said taking another bite of his
food.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It seems that all of the cops had one person in
common; an attorney with the Public Defender’s office, Millicent Parker. When
Millicent was in law school she was out with some friends. After leaving a bar
in midtown, she was stopped by two beat cops. According to police reports, Terrance
Malcovich and Omar Reid were accused of dragging Millicent into an abandoned
building and raping her. The two then drove her to a friend’s house, fellow
officer Troy Evans where he and our fourth victim, officer Marco Bates
proceeded to rape her.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“This is one of those cases where you actually
route for the UNSUB. Let me guess, the cops got off.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You got it!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan rubbed his temples trying to hide his
discomfort but Penelope noticed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Are you okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ve never been better.” He responded almost
robotically.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She wasn’t buying it but decided to drop it for
now. They finished dinner and cleaned up the kitchen together and headed to the
living room for movies and cuddling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Serenity
Streams – Afternoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Dr. Sykes had high hopes for his latest subject. He
was young, intelligent, physically fit. He was stubborn and strong-willed which
admittedly had caused a problem initially but he was confident that they had
managed to break him. He’d passed all of the initial tests but they had safe
guards in place just in case something went wrong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The last three unfortunately hadn’t worked out as
he’d hoped. The human mind is such a fragile and often unpredictable thing.
They were running out of time and their clients were growing impatient. After
the last man had died, Dr. Sykes had begun to doubt if he’d be able to meet his
deadline. When his former patient Erin Strauss had sent her agent to him he
knew he’d hit the lottery. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As he sat dictating his notes, he felt extremely
proud of what he had accomplished this past week. With each subject he’d been
able to improve his process and he chocked up the headaches each one seemed to
suffer from as a necessary means to an end. Otherwise, his plan was near perfect
built with it’s own problem solver-no one would ever suspect a bullet to the
temple as anything other than suicide. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Sheer
genius.” </i>He thought to himself. Derek Morgan was about to make him a very
rich man; it was a shame that he had to die in the process.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i>To be continued…</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><i><br /></i></span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15778895430846843504noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5159069066728104418.post-14438861434630221782013-11-06T17:30:00.000-08:002014-01-30T09:52:35.233-08:00Day Break<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">With
Garcia’s life in danger, Derek must move past the pain of her rejection to save
her life from an unlikely enemy.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan – morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek hadn’t slept at all. He was devastated by
Penelope’s rejection. He knew that if she’d been herself last night would not
have played out the way it did. Still, he couldn’t wrap his head around the
fact that she looked him straight in the eyes and did not know him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He’d refused to leave the hospital even though the
doctors and nurses had banned him from her room. He believed that if he could
just talk to her he could make her understand and to remember him and what they
were to each other. After the doctor had left him standing alone in the waiting
room, Derek had called the team to let them know that Penelope was awake and
that she didn’t remember anything. He tried so hard to hide his pain but he was
sure he hadn’t done a very good job, especially when he spoke to JJ who after
talking with him, offered to call the rest of the team. The only consolation
that he had to hold on to was the fact that the scum who had attacked Penelope
and put her in the hospital were now dead and would not be able to harm her
again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek climbed out of bed and headed towards the
kitchen to make coffee. He wanted to talk to Penelope this morning in hopes
that she would remember him and everything else about who she was and about her
life. He was so exhausted and worried it was as if he were on autopilot. He had
just admitted to himself and then to Penelope that he was in love with her.
They had decided to take it slow, day-by-day with no need to rush or force
anything. The hard part had been done, that of admitting the obvious, a mere
formality it seemed of which everyone knew but the two of them who were afraid
to speak out loud what their hearts had known and wanted for the last nine
years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter what happened today, he
was determined not to give up on her. She was his life, his love and it was no
way in hell he was going to lose her without a fight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">DC General
Hospital – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ wasn’t quite sure what she would say when she
saw her best friend. Derek had called her the night before, distraught over the
fact that she was awake but couldn’t remember anything, couldn’t remember him.
He was one of the strongest men she knew but this was close to breaking him. JJ
had run scenarios through her mind a thousand times as she got ready to come to
the hospital. Trying to help her friend who had suddenly lost her entire life
in less than 48 hours was her priority. She’d read stories and watched movies
but she knew very little about amnesia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ stopped at the door of her friend’s room and
took a deep breath. Glancing through the window she saw Garcia staring into
space with a sad lost expression on her face with the sound of the television
playing low in the background.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Well here
we go</i>.” She thought to herself as she pushed the door open.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia looked up toward the door and saw a
beautiful petite blonde with sad blue eyes. She wasn’t dressed like the doctors
or nurses so she guessed that she was either a shrink or someone from social
services.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good Morning, Penelope.” JJ wasn’t sure if she
should say more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good Morning.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Puzzled, Penelope watched the woman carefully
approach her bedside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Do you know me? Recognize me?” JJ asked softly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Should I?” Penelope answered defensively.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My name is Jennifer. Jennifer Jarreau.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hello Jennifer Jarreau.” Penelope stared waiting
for more from her mystery guest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I-I-…I don’t know really where to start.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The beginning is always good.” Penelope said
innocently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ chuckled thinking that the comment sounded like
something Garcia would say, the old Garcia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s so funny?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Nothing. You just sound like a good friend of
mine, that’s all.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The two were interrupted by a male nurse who
entered the room beaming from ear to ear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good morning sleepy-head! I just wanted to let you
know that I’m off duty but I’ll be back tonight and I requested that I be your
nurse again. I hope you don’t mind.” Myles said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ noticed the way Garcia’s face lit up when he
came into the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey, Myles! Okay. Thanks for being so nice to me
and everything. I know I was quite a hysterical mess.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Myles notices JJ and introduces himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Pardon my manners. I’m Myles, Miss Garcia’s nurse
last night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“JJ. Please to meet you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Myles takes another quick glance around the room
and fluffs Garcia’s pillow and turns to the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sorry to interrupt. Pen, I’ll see you tonight,
okay?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Okay, bye.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Friendly fellow.” JJ joked sarcastically.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I like him. Besides, he’s the only one I know
around here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ suddenly felt bad for making a joke about Myles
the nurse. She felt terrible for Garcia realizing how frightening it had to be
to not be able to remember anything or anybody.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope, I’m sorry. That was rude of me…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey, don’t worry about it.” Penelope interrupted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I can’t imagine how it feels to…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Not remember who you are? Well, it sucks! I feel
like I’m in the middle of the ocean trying desperately not to drown. Feeling
like the ocean is going to swallow me whole and there’s no one around to hear
me scream.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope suddenly felt a rush of something, a flash
of a picture. A woman was screaming; dark figures surrounded her, then pain and
wicked laughter. The woman just screamed but no one heard her. Then she
realized that she was the woman. Penelope brushed away the tears that began to
fall. JJ noticed a look of confusion and terror cross Penelope’s face and she stood
and moved to embrace her friend. Surprisingly Penelope did not pull away and the
two held onto each other for several minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After a while JJ pulled away and sat on the edge of the bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Are you beginning to remember something?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t know. I just saw a weird flash of
something…a woman…me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“If you like I can fill in some of the blanks.” JJ
offered hopefully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’d like that.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Meanwhile…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Myles sat in a dark two-door rental parked in the
employee-parking garage. He pulled out his cell phone and called his employer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You better have good news!” Lynch barked loudly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Everything is going as planned, Sir. I’m in as a
nurse assigned to her. She trusts me and before you know it, sir, you’ll have
what you want.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good. Don’t screw this up!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No way! Fate is even on our side, boss! She’s got
amnesia and she doesn’t even remember her super-hero boyfriend and refuses to
have anything to do with him so this is going to be a piece of cake.” Myles
added boastfully.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t underestimate those two. My son did and he
ended up dead.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hospital
Room of Penelope Garcia<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">For the last 45 minutes JJ reviewed Garcia’s life
as she knew it. Garcia quietly listened occasionally wiping away tears. She
suddenly found herself missing the mother and father who she could not remember
and wondered in amazement as JJ told her about her job and accomplishments with
the Behavioral Analysis Unit, a specialized unit of the FBI. She cried
uncontrollably at not being able to remember all of these things for herself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“JJ. Who was the man in my room last night? You
haven’t mentioned him.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">JJ didn’t want to upset her but she knew she
couldn’t stall any longer. She couldn’t keep the details of her life and love
for Derek from her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“His name is Derek Morgan. He’s an agent on our
team.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Who is he…to me I mean?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You two were…are very good friends…best friends.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Is that it? Because I sense there’s something
more.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, you two are inseparable, always
flirting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all swear you two are in
love but you seem to be in denial…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh my God!” Garcia interrupted. “Is that why he
was so upset last night?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“He’s been by your bedside ever since you were
brought in. We all tried everything to get him to go home and rest but he
refused.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Garcia sat back against her pillows and closed her
eyes. How could she not remember this man? How was it possible to not remember
anything about her life? Even sitting listening to JJ try so hard to give her
the basic information about her life without tainting any real memories,
everything sounded like some novel written by an obscure writer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Almost on cue, Derek appeared at the door of her
room. JJ and Garcia looked up simultaneously at the handsome man standing
nervously at the door. JJ stood and looked at Garcia waiting for her to react
to his appearance praying for some sign that she remembered Derek. Nothing, she
just stared at him and tensed up as he slowly entered the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s okay. This is Derek. He’s not going to hurt
you.” JJ reassured her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“De-Derek…I’m sorry about last night…I didn’t mean
to…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Shhhh…it’s okay, Baby Girl. I just came by to see
how you were doing, if it’s okay with you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope couldn’t help but notice how gorgeous this
man was. His brown eyes bore deep into her as if he were looking for something
in her soul. As he slowly approached her stopping at the foot of her bed she
saw a kindness in his face mixed with pain and disappointment. Somehow she
regretted her hysterics. She felt safe with him in the room and knew he would
not hurt her, quite the contrary he’d probably risk his life for her and
perhaps had done so in the past. She didn’t know how she knew this but suddenly
she realized that she was smiling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You are really handsome.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope was immediately embarrassed by her words,
not knowing why she spoke what her mind was only thinking. She couldn’t take
her eyes off of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you.” Morgan blushed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Uhh…I was just giving Garcia the Cliff Note
version of her life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You still don’t remember anything? Anyone?” Derek
asked sadly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Nothing. I’m sorry.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Don’t be sorry.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan so wanted to go to her and hold her and
reassure her that everything was going to be fine. But he didn’t want to risk
another episode of last night. His heart was breaking all over again as he
watched her staring intently at him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Do you need anything? Can I bring you something?”
He asked her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. Thank you. I’m fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan wanted to say so many things to her. He
wanted to tell her how much he loved her but he knew it wouldn’t matter.
Nothing mattered because to her he was a stranger. She looked at him with such
confusion and something else. Just beyond the tears that she was desperately
trying to hold onto, he saw a determination, the fight of the Garcia he knew,
wanting to remember but her present reality was too strong and so for now all
he could do was be satisfied that she had not called for the Calvary to come
and throw him out of the room again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well, I better go before the staff has me thrown
out. Your doctor has already warned me once that this room was off-limits.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek looked away briefly trying to control his own
emotions. His eyes met JJ’s and she nodded at him as if to say, ‘I’m sorry for
your pain.’ He quickly left the room without looking back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope didn’t know what to say. She sat quietly
looking down and finally allowing the tears to flow freely down her cheeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You okay, Penelope?” JJ asked concerned for her
friend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. No I’m not.” She responded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope’s
Room – later that evening<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope sat quietly in her room staring blankly
into space. Her dinner tray sat untouched in front of her. She kept replaying
her conversation with JJ earlier. She also couldn’t stop thinking about Agent
Morgan who had stopped by earlier. Even though JJ hadn’t given details, she
knew he had been something special in her life and she’d give anything to be
able to remember him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Knock, knock.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Myles poked his head in before entering her room.
Beaming brightly he frowned when he saw the untouched tray. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">His arrival broke her thoughts and she quickly
looked up at her new friend eager for a distraction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hello, Myles.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What’s this? Not hungry?” He said pointing to her
tray.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know hospitals are infamous for lousy food, but
this has far exceeded lousy.” Penelope pretended to gag.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well Missy, I’ve got great news for you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“The doctor has written discharge orders for you. Tomorrow
morning, you will be sprung from this place!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope could feel the panic well inside. Where
would she go? She knew she couldn’t stay in the hospital indefinitely. But
home? What was home? Better yet, where was home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Oh. Okay.” Her voice was shaky.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Myles seeing her sudden state of panic seized a
priceless opportunity to further ingratiate himself into her life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Listen, tomorrow’s my day off. How about I take
you home when my shift ends in the morning.” He offered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Oddly, Penelope felt a little uncomfortable with
his offer but she felt as if she had no other options. So, she accepted; what
harm could it do? At the least she’d have a new friend. She hated the utter
loneliness she had felt since waking from her coma and not remembering anything
or anybody.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Mars
Bistro – <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was hammered. He had been sitting alone at
the bar for over an hour. He’d turned down three drop-dead gorgeous women’s
attempts to get to know him better. The bartender was even beginning to get
worried. He and the BAU team were regulars and Mars was a popular hangout for
FBI agents. She had never seen him like this and she knew he wasn’t in any
shape to drive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I think you need to call it a night.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was suddenly caught off guard by a familiar
voice from behind. Turning slowly he looked into the eyes of his boss, Aaron
Hotchner. David Rossi was also with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Hey, what are you guys doing here?” He said
turning back to his drink and taking a sip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“We’re your ride.” Rossi answered shooting a look
at Hotch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s still early. Sit, sit…I’ll buy you two a
drink. He slurred.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hotch shot a glance at the bartender and nodded his
appreciation for calling them. The bartender acknowledged and brought over
Morgan’s tab. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Look Morgan, we know you’re upset about Garcia.
Hell we all are but this is not the way to deal with it.” Rossi reasoned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How do I deal with it? Huh, Rossi? Tell me how do
I deal with losing the one person I…just leave me alone.” He responded angrily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. We’re not going to leave you alone. We’re
family, we take care of each other and right now we’re taking you home.” Rossi
added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Morgan you can’t give up on Garcia. She’s tough.
You’ve got to be patient.” Rossi added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan laid his head on the bar trying to make
sense of the last two days. Hotch placed a hand on his shoulder and the
distraught agent slowly stood and steadied himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Let’s get you home.” Hotch chimed in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Rossi paid the tab, which included a hefty tip and
the three men left the bar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Home of
Derek Morgan – morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The sunlight glaring through the blinds of his
bedroom window served as a sharp dagger piercing his temples that reminded him
of last evening's pity party. His stomach wretched and he ran to the bathroom
barely making it to the toilet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">After taking a hot shower Morgan noticed that he had
missed several calls and text messages. He was even more depressed when none of
them were from Garcia. One of the voicemails did however get his attention, so
he returned the call.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sorry I missed your call last night. I was a
little under the weather.” He said to the female caller on the other end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I found out some intel on the creeps who hurt
Garcia. Seems as though they were hired by a Myles Butler, a mid-level hood
working for some billionaire New York businessman with suspected ties to
organized crime.” Said the friend on the other end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What would a billionaire gain by terrorizing a
shopping mall parking lot? Derek asked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Actually quite a bit. They targeted Garcia
specifically. The three that attacked her were hired to kill her and make it look
like a random mugging! The only reason she’s still alive is because someone
heard her screams and came out to investigate and they ran off.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What? Why? Who is this guy?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Revenge. Does the name Richard Lynch mean anything?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I know a Kevin Lynch.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Richard is his father. Apparently he’s out for
revenge for the death of his son.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“That son-of-a-bitch! He should be coming after me;
I’m the one who killed Kevin!” Derek added.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Care to fill me in?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s a long story. I’ll have to fill you in later whenever
you decide to come for a visit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’ll hold you to that, Derek. Well I just arrived
in New York to check out this rich guy. I’ll call you back when I know more.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thanks. I
appreciate the help.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek ended the call and headed to the hospital to
see Penelope. He was torn on whether or not to share this news with her. She
had to already be confused and terrified about her amnesia and he didn’t know
how dumping any more on her just now would help matters. Besides, he had
already decided to keep his distance until she regained her memory. If she
didn’t…he couldn’t let himself think that way. His life without her was too
painful to consider.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">***************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope had left the hospital and she and Myles
were now headed to Penelope’s apartment. She felt so many emotions flooding her
mixed with flashes of images of people in her mind, hints of her past and
present and she sat silently trying to make sense of it all, all the while
Myles chatted non-stop about idle things. He sounded like a girlfriend that
changed subjects without first finishing the previous one. She kept getting the
flashes, the ones with Derek seemed bright and happy and then they would fade.
So not wanting to be rude to her new friend she focused on his lightening fast
one-sided conversation as they finally arrived at an old, well-manicured
apartment building. She sat motionless, looking around desperately trying to
find something that looked familiar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Myles rushed around to the passenger side and
opened the door to help her out of his small dark rental car. The two walked
through the small courtyard and into the building, climbing the flight of
stairs to her studio apartment. As she touched the handle and unlocking the
door she took a deep breath, turned the nob, glanced at a smiling Myles and
opened the door. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Myles followed her inside the cluttered brightly
colored eclectically decorated home. At first one would think that it was utter
chaos but upon closer examination it was very orderly with a place for
everything. More importantly, he thought, it was the perfect place to die.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">D.C.
General Hospital –<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan headed toward Penelope’s room. Once there he
saw a small older woman changing the bed linen. There was no sign of Penelope
and so he turned and headed toward the front desk. The clerk looked up with a
flirtatious smile eager to help him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Good morning! Can I help you with something?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Yes. I’m looking for Penelope Garcia” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He barely noticed that she was drop-dead gorgeous
and this slightly irritated the young woman.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Sorry you missed her. She was discharged about an
hour ago.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You’re kidding? How did she get home?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“One of the nurses gave her ride.” Then the clerk
leaned in as if sharing some juicy gossip. “I think the new guy has a “thing”
for Ms. Garcia.” She chuckled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek was visibly upset and the clerk seemed to get
a little satisfaction from knowing that she played a small part in that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“What nurse? What’s his name?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Myles I think. Yea, Myles Butler.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek felt almost light-headed. Myles Butler was
the man hired by Kevin Lynch’s father to kill Penelope. He’d been right under
their noses all this time! He could have killed her at anytime and now he was
alone with her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Apartment
of Penelope Garcia- <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope slowly walked around her small apartment
touching and examining everything looking for a clue to what she could not
remember. The Picture of her with her parents as a little girl caused her to
cry as she traced the figures with her index finger trying to remember. Myles
watched patiently and quietly from the doorway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry, please come in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No worries. I won’t stay long. I know this is a
lot to take in.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Thank you for giving me a ride…for everything
really.” She continued to survey the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“It’s my pleasure.” Myles smiled behind her back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Something to drink?” Penelope asked her “friend.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Water if you have it. Thanks.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well let me look.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope entered the kitchen and opened the
refrigerator, the obvious place for bottled water she supposed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Meanwhile, Myles pulled out a pair of black leather
gloves from the inside pocket of his jacket and began putting them on. As
Penelope was still in the kitchen he removed a gun and began screwing on the
silencer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope suddenly felt a rush, a force that nearly
knocked her off of her feet. She frantically grabbed hold of the counter to
steady herself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Need any help in there?” Myles called from the
front room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“No. I’m fine. I’ll be right out. You want any
ice?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As if a page turned and pictures that once were
black and white began to turn to bright vivid colors, Penelope began to regain
her memory. It felt like it must feel to be a paralytic and then suddenly
regain the use of your legs. She was overwhelmed as her life regained it’s
balance and she was so excited to share her breakthrough with Myles who had
been her constant since this nightmare began. She turned and rushed out of the
kitchen, tears of joy streaming down her face, then, her heart stopped cold at
the sight of the gun in Myles gloved hand pointed at her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Myles!” She screeched. “What are you doing?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">***************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Morgan saw the strange black car parked in front of
Penelope’s apartment building as he pulled up. Turning off his engine he
quietly got out of the car and approached the building. He prayed he wasn’t too
late. He’d give anything not to be too late. Even if she never remembered him
at this moment he didn’t care. This was the second time that violence and evil
had visited her at her front door and he couldn’t imagine what he would do if
he were too late to save her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Penelope, come join me.” He motioned for her to
sit on the couch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Myles why are you doing this?” Penelope was
terrified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“A mutual acquaintance sent me. You know Richard
Lynch don’t you? Or maybe not.” He snickered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Actually, I do remember him. That’s why I came
rushing out here to tell you I remember everything.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well then you know why he would send me to kill
you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Why?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Before he could answer Derek burst through the door
just like he’d done so many times before on cases. His eyes trained on Myles
and his gun drawn and ready to end his life. Glancing quickly at Penelope he
moved fully into the room. Myles vision and aim darted back and forth between
Penelope and Derek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Put the gun down!” Derek yelled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I can’t do that. Mr. Lynch doesn’t tolerate failure.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I don’t give a damn what Mr. Lynch tolerates!
Put…the…gun…down!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“You! You’re not supposed to be here! Why are you
always around her?!” Myles yelled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Because I love her and I’m not about to let scum
like you hurt her! Now, for the last time…put…the gun…down!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Next, Myles made a move that cost him his life. He
mistakenly thought he’d be able to shoot Derek and Penelope but he didn’t
realize that Derek was looking for Myles to move, to flinch, even ever so
slight. That was all he needed. Just like when he killed the Prince of
Darkness. All he had needed was a mere flinch to justify putting six rounds
into the madman. So, that’s how Myles’ life ended he made a move and Derek shot
him emptying his gun and watching his lifeless body fall to the ground. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Penelope rushed to Derek crying hysterically. He
grabbed her and held her into his arms rocking and whispering that everything
would be alright. He kissed the top of her head and sent up a silent prayer of
thanks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Later…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The police forensics team was busy working the
apartment when the rest of the team arrived. Derek and Garcia sat quietly on
the couch. Penelope curled up and lying on his chest. JJ knelt down in front of
the couple as the others surrounded them watching and insuring that they were
okay. Derek had told them that she had regained her memory and so the smiles
and tears this time were tears of joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Derek knew it would take Penelope a long time to
get over this ordeal. He wasn’t sure what it would take or how long but they
had weathered so many storms together and this would be no different. His mind
went back to Halloween night. She had promised to make him love the special day
just like she did. He had had his doubts and even now he wanted nothing to do
with the ghosts, the goblins, the tricks or the treats. He pulled her closer
and softly stroked her blonde hair and closed his eyes trying to banish the
memories of the past few days. All he wanted to think about was his Baby Girl.
He’d almost lost her but know he had her back and he’d fight, he'd do anything he
had to do to keep her safe and to make sure he never lost her again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Offices
of Richard Lynch – New York<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Richard Lynch looked out onto the city. He loved
the view of the cityscape it soothed him somehow. It was late but he had no
reason to rush home. His life had been so consumed with business and now
revenge that he had no desire to leave the comfort of his office. He anxiously
awaited the call from his trusted employee informing him of his accomplished
mission. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">He was startled at the light knock on the door and
was pleasantly surprised when he turned around to meet the gaze of a beautiful
dark-haired woman. Confidently he smiled and greeted her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“Well hello. It’s a little late. Were closed for
the day.” He said flirtatiously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I’m sorry. There was no one at the front desk.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“How’d you get in the building?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“I have my ways.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She slowly began removing her jacket seductively
and walking toward him. Her demeanor upped his confidence and he reached for
his half-filled glass and took a sip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“…and what’s your name, pretty lady?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">“My friends call me, “Elle.” A wicked slow grin
crossed her face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She reached behind her and pulled out a gun. Her
smile met his wide-eyed shocked glare as she aimed and pulled the trigger.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">***************<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #131313; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">“It has
been said, 'time heals all wounds.' I do not agree. The wounds remain. In time,
the mind, protecting its sanity, covers them with scar tissue and the pain
lessens. But it is never gone.” </span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #131313; font-family: "Times New Roman";">―</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #131313; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"> <span style="color: #535503;">Rose Kennedy</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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