Crime Story~1969-70

CHAPTER SEVENTY-SIX: CONCLUSION: There's No Place Like Home

2012-01-16T12:02:00.003-06:00

Chapter 76 There's No Place Like Home

November 1970

Trevon slammed Tristan against the wall. "Hands up, spread them." He did a weapons search then leaned in close. "Took us a few weeks but you lead us to your operation." Trevon glanced over where the uniforms were bringing out bags of pills and some stoner who was obviously Tristan's pill maker. Chemicals, molds and other equipment were also confiscated. "Quite the little operation." Trevon hissed.

Trevon spun him around and stepped back. He couldn't understand it, the kid had everything going for him, Leary's handpicked rookie. Top of his class. Shit, they were already talking about promoting him to plain clothes in a couple of years, he was on everyone's must-have list.

"Why. Why would you do this?" Trevon whispered.

Tristan shrugged. "Money."

"How do you think I paid my way through college? Turns out, I was good at it. So, I kept it going. Sold to a few friends and acquaintances..."

"Bullshit." Domingo sneered. "It's bigger than a few friends."

"Prove it. It's just me and Harold over there. And he is so high most of the time, he won't tell you much. Did you actually see me sell any drugs? No. You got me on possession only. You can't even prove intent to sell."

Trevon sneered inwardly. The kid was right.

Trevon grabbed Tristan and slapped the cuffs on him. "We got enough. Your damned career is over. You fucking mutt. Mike Leary is waiting to see you, he will ask the questions. Like who was in on this with you. We have our suspicions."

Tristan flinched as the cuffs pinched his wrists. He had to play this cool. He wasn't really sure what they had, or who. He knew how this worked.

Tristan held his tongue. And he would say nothing. He could throw them Jimmy Doyle but that may lead them to Kane. Kane...who he had to protect at all costs. Jesus, were they following him? For how long? They must know about Kane but what do they know?

His brain scrambled to recall if he had contacted O'Shaunessey lately...no, not for weeks, not since that idiot toadie stopped him at the coffee shop.
Stay cool.

It was late, almost the end of the middle shift, Mike had his interview with Tristan, who was now cooling his heels down in the holding cell until morning. Since he knew this arrest was going down today, Mike had Bonnie on desk work. He called her into his office. She must have heard already about Tristan being brought in, the station house was nothing if not a hotbed of gossip.
Her face looked neutral from what he could see. He motioned her to take a seat.

He had his suspicions who the 'anonymous source' was. And he was looking at her. She didn't come to him, that rankled. He thought they had a good working relationship. But, he was the boss so he could see her going to the detectives, especially if she wanted her name kept out of it. And he couldn't blame her there. Not really. Cops were a strange, cliquish and protective bunch. And if Bonnie Naugle wanted to rise through the ranks, she had to follow the rules. Smart. He would not browbeat her over it, what was the point?

"I am sure you heard by now, Tristan O'Shea was arrested for drug possession with intent to sell." He stated.

Bonnie nodded. "It's all over the squad. I am shocked, Captain."

Clever girl. Neither her face nor voice gave her away. But Mike could see the corner of her eye flicker and twitch ever so slightly.

"You will be re-assigned back here at the station house for now, we will revisit getting you a partner in the new year. Did you suspect in any way? That Tristan was up to illegal activities?"

"We didn't talk about our personal lives much Captain. On the job, he was very competent. I never associated with him off the clock. I truly can't believe this."

Domingo knocked and entered. Shit. Bonnie. He was hoping to talk to her before Leary called her on the carpet. They had only spoken a couple of times briefly since she came by his apartment last month. He knew she didn't like lying, did she stick to her story of knowing nothing? Leary could be sly, get you to confess to anything.

Mike looked up at him, then back to Bonnie. "That will be all, Officer Naugle. Thank you."

Mike picked up the phone and was talking to the desk sergeant. Domingo leaned down and whispered in Bonnie's ear as she headed for the door. "Come by my place after shift."

She frowned slightly. "No, you come by mine. My parents are away so we can talk. Alone."

She brushed past him making slight contact, enough to send bands of raw heat through him. Thank Christ he had a long coat on.
Her place. He knew where it was, he mailed the letters there and truth be told, he drove by it enough.

"So, this anonymous source, we will need them to testify about O'Shaunessey." Mike declared.

Domingo shook his head firmly. "Not going to happen. I gave my word the source would not be involved. We could have extended the investigation, waited until he contacted O'Shaunessey. But it was you who said arrest him."

Mike put his hands on his hips. True enough. He didn't want a dirty cop on the street any longer than necessary.
Mike wanted O'Shea...gone. "What about this friend of his, Kane Ryan? Anything there?"

"We didn't follow Ryan anywhere, didn't think it necessary, you said concentrate on O'Shea. So with what little time we had...we did. As far as we can tell, they were friends. We didn't notice any drug business going on. Do you want us to watch Ryan?"

Mike shook his head. "Not now. I spoke to O'Shea. He gave me nothing as I figured he would. Said he worked alone, him and the guy making the pills, small time. Somehow, I don't believe him. But we work with what we got."

Mike leaned back against the desk, resting his hips on it.

"Is there something you want to tell me about you and Officer Naugle?"

Domingo almost laughed aloud. This guy was good. He probably shouldn't have whispered in her ear in front of Leary.

"No, not really. Would it be a problem if there was?"

Mike studied his face thoroughly. "It is against the Department's rules. Dating, fraternizing, whatever the hell they call it. One of you would have to transfer out, I don't want to lose either one of you. The first sign I see any relationship between you affect the job, one of you will have to go and it will be me making the decision."

Domingo nodded. "Fair enough, Captain."

It was 1 a.m., Bonnie did not know how much longer she could stay awake. She was shaking in her boots when she was in Captain Leary's office. She wasn't sure she pulled it off but she had had weeks of practice, acting as if nothing was wrong around Tristan. And playing it cool around Domingo when all she wanted to do was kiss him senseless. She had thought about him long enough, read those letters every night before she went to sleep. It was time they had that talk.

When the doorbell chimed, she knew it was him. He walked in and he filled the room like he always did. Not just his height and broad shoulders, but him. He was so vital and virile. And sexy. And vulnerable. And so imperfect. Perfection she was finding, was way over rated.

She could see the fatigue in those gorgeous blue eyes of his. "I can take your coat, are you hungry? Want a drink?"

"No. All I want...is you."

She tossed his leather coat on the loveseat. That did it. Those words. All she needed to hear. He walked up to her and took her hands. They were warm and comforting. "You did good. The Captain never suspected you were the source."

Bonnie raised an eyebrow. "I think he suspects, he is choosing to let it go. The Captain is not stupid. I hope I did the right thing."

Domingo squeezed her hands in reassurance. "What you overheard about O'Shaunessey could be called 'hearsay', think of the pain, the trial, the investigation by I.A., you could be suspected as well. We never saw him deal with O'Shaunessey, no way to prove. We had to make the arrest with what we had. It will be enough. You're safe."

"And I have you to thank for it. Let's go in the parlor, I have a fire going."

They sat on the plush Persian rug in front of the fire. Domingo put her arm around her and pulled her close, she reached and took his hand. "I have to know Bonnie, do I have a chance with you? Or did I seriously screw this up?"

She exhaled. "I read your letters. Many, many times since last month. I have done a lot of thinking..."

"Before you continue, let me say this. Since that night, I haven't seen Penelope Prescott. In fact, I only recently heard she left town on some trip to Europe. Could be gone months, years. I have been with no woman since. I didn't want any women. I know, hard to believe. Diablo, celibate for over 5 months. But I have. First time in my adult life. The sex that night was empty, more than it ever was. I can't explain why I had sex with her but I did. She was waiting for me in my apartment after you dropped me off. She was wearing this lingerie..." Bonnie began to squirm, he held her tighter. "Let me finish, please."

"To say I was already in an aroused state after you dropped me off is an understatement. And when she touched me, I lost all reason. It's not an excuse." he whispered. "Far from it. You better know right now, I like sex. A lot. But I have learned to control myself these last months. And if you want to take things slow, I will do whatever you want, become a damned monk even. I promise you here and now, that if you will give me another chance, I will never cheat on you. Ever."

Bonnie sighed. "Domingo. Please, I know you are not perfect. As I said I have done a lot of thinking. Your letters moved me. Touched me. Still waters run deep in you, I like that. But if we are to see each other exclusively, I will insist on you being faithful, always tell me the truth, as I will to you as long as we are together. It is trust. Without it, how can we love? Ever?"

Domingo's heart stilled in his chest. Love? Holy shit. Dare he hope? "Slow, I can do that, Bonnie." His voice was hoarse with emotion.

"Your letters? Made me care for you far more than I thought I could, Domingo. I think I fell a little in love with the man that wrote those letters."

He closed his eyes. Jesus. She was so honest, so open. He didn't deserve her, not by a long shot.
"I wouldn't have said what I did in those letters, if I was not a little in love with you too, Bonnie. I told you everything. Never opened myself up like that to anyone. That's how much I trust you. Forgive me, say you forgive me. I am giving my notice and moving out of that damn apartment. I want to leave all...that...behind. I promise, Penelope Prescott is out of my life."

Bonnie snuggled in closer. "I am glad you are moving out of there. A fresh start. For us too, because I do forgive you, Domingo."

They lay in front of the crackling fire for a long time. He wrapped himself around her. So warm, so solid. She could feel his potent arousal. He liked sex. A lot. A smile curved about her mouth. Good. So did she. He was in for a surprise. But, not yet. She did want to take it slow. He told her what Mike Leary said. They would have to pretend at work, pretend a working indifference. She would do whatever it takes.

"Can I stay here, all night? Just like this?" He whispered in her ear.

Not that there was much left of the night, it was already 4 AM. "Yes. Let's get some sleep, then I will cook us breakfast."

She heard Domingo sigh contentedly.

3 weeks later, early December:

Kane Ryan was still in shock about Tristan's arrest. Thus endeth his drug business. He sold what was left of his stash and walked away. He took Jimmy up on the offer of taking some shifts at The Playpen, while looking for any job that contained some sort of writing. He had resumes into the two daily newspapers and the weekly one. Couldn't hurt.
But what did hurt is Tristan refused to see him. He went by Rockland State to no avail.

A letter. From Tristan. he was almost afraid to open it, but he did.

"Stay away. The cops know we are friends but they have nothing on you. It has to stay that way. We can have no connection. Forget me. It is for the best, all the way around. I could be here years. Move on with your life. I have put you on the 'no visit' list, so don't even try. Do not write me, I will throw them out unopened. We are done, Kane. Done. In all ways.
Follow Doyle's advice. O'Shaunessey doesn't know about you, so you are safe there as well. Burn this letter as soon as you read it and forget me. For I will forget you. Tris."

His hand stroked the letter. Destroy it. It was all destroyed. Everything. His heart, his life. His love. Why did he have the sickening feeling he would never, ever love like that again? He felt like an empty shell. Thing was, he would have waited for him no matter how many years he was incarcerated, he would have waited.
But Tristan ended it, said he would forget him. As he knew he would, all along.

He stuffed the letter back in his coat and walked back toward his house. Fine. Move on. He would. All their talk of love was a pipe dream anyway. Wishful thinking. They would have had to live and love in secret. It would have been a strain.

No one could ever know. Never. Move on-when all he wanted to do...was die.

Christmas Eve

Liam and Darcy decided to hold an open house, He had Glen Campbell's Christmas Album. 'That Christmas Feeling' playing softly on the Marantz. Very low key and pleasant.

Liam could not have been more shocked when Mike showed up with Dylan and Greg. Greg, of all people. First time he faced the young man in years. He was grown up. He could see the ravages of his POW experience on his face.

He was Mike's son in a lot of ways physically and otherwise but he saw Maggie. Especially around the eyes.
Liam smiled. "Greg...I can't tell you how pleased I am that you came."
He saw Greg's cool blue eyes soften slightly.

Greg held out his hand and Liam quickly took it, gripping it tight. "Well Mr De...Ahhh...." Greg was a little flustered, not sure what to say.

"Liam-Greg. Just...Liam, please. Joey will be thrilled you are here, as thrilled as we are. He inclined his head toward the woman standing next to him. "My wife Darcy. Darcy, this is Greg, Maggie and Mike's son."

Greg smiled and took Darcy's hand as well.

Darcy moved off and left the two alone. Liam could not help himself, he reached out and tentatively touched Greg's shoulder. He did not flinch away. "Get togethers like this, I hope we can forget the past. What about your sister, is she coming?"

"Donna is out with her boyfriend Trevon and his partner and girlfriend, but they said they will stop by later."

"Good. Now, I want you to meet Deanna, your half-sister. It's time." Liam smiled warmly.

Greg nodded.

Time passed, polite conversation, people coming and going, Liam could not stop smiling. To see Greg here and see how close Greg and Joey had gotten over the last couple of months. And to see the deep and abiding affection between Mike and Joey, the respect. He was not aware over these last 6 years that the two had developed such a father-son bond, it was great to see.

Since Keiran's death he made more of an effort with Joey, he and Fallon were over almost every weekend and the fact Mike and Greg were firmly in the mix, made Liam feel a deep contentment about the future he had not had before.

Deanna and Dylan were inseparable, running all over the barely furnished home, stuffing candy and fruitcake in their mouths.

Deanna loved her uncle Mike but Uncle Joey always held a special place in her heart. He was so beautiful, she couldn't stop looking at him. And she knew of Greg, Daddy told her many times about her half-brother Greg. He was off to war, then he was sick. But he was here and she finally met him. He looked like Uncle Mike!

Joey looked down at Deanna, she was begging for a hug. His heart tugged, what he wouldn't give to have an adorable little girl like this of his very own. Boy or girl, whatever Erin had, they would treasure him or her, and make sure they were part of this family and well loved.

Greetings went up as Sloane and Sully walked in. They were on their way over to Julie's, Lorcan's 2 brothers were going to be there but they had a few hours to spend here first. "Bring Julie and the Byrne boys back with you for a visit!" Liam encouraged.

"Aye, I'll mention it. First we have an announcement, Sloane and I are getting married, a spring wedding, nothing fancy. A fine soft April day, we are hoping." Sully smiled.

Shouts of congratulations filled the cavernous room.

Liam popped the sparkling wine and passed out the glasses. "Perfect opportunity for a toast. First part of the glass, To Sloane and Sully. All the best for your happiness." Everyone raised their glasses. "Secondly, to those who are not with us. They will not be forgotten."

A few moments of silence marked the absence of loved ones, no longer there. No other words had to be said.

Liam raised his glass. "But most of all, to family and dear friends, who are family in truth.

May you always have walls for the winds,
a roof for the rain, tea beside the fire,
laughter to cheer you, those you love near you,
and all your heart might desire.

Cheers and happy holidays to us all!" Liam laughed.
Everyone raised glasses in salute.

Liam carved the turkey and Fallon helped Darcy bring out the vegetables and rolls. Cindi and Devlin had called and talked to everyone, Devlin was doing so well, they might be home in March. Tyler and Regan called, they would be there shortly with the kids. They were out looking at Christmas lights first. Veronica and Nick also promised to stop in for a visit later.

"I saw Lorcan today," Sully ventured. "Can you believe he and your father are getting along? Julie agreed to bring Byrne to Vinnie for monthly visits. I am gobsmacked."

Liam chuckled. "Pop is very convincing. Lorcan told me Pop is looking out for him, guess we should be grateful."

Lorcan also told him his father wanted to see him, but Liam was not ready. He didn't know if he would ever be ready to face him again. But now was not the time to dwell on it.

Liam looked around the room, Deanna insisted on eating with her new found brother, Greg. Liam wondered how Greg was keeping up with her incessant but sweet chatter. She had come a long way this year, much more outgoing. A lot of it was Darcy. She had helped him too. He never would have hosted an open house like this, not his style. But he had to admit, having everyone around was fucking fantastic. He was glad now he bought the house. New memories.

Dinner over, Liam and Darcy were breaking out the eggnog, Joey took the opportunity to grab Fallon's hand and slip in a slow dance. Glen was crooning "Christmas is for Children."

Joey was so in love, he could not believe it. A year now they have been married, still felt like yesterday. Honeymoon everyday and every damned night. And soon they would be a family. "This time next year, we will be toting around a baby. Think of the Christmases ahead, the little Indelli will be running around this room every Christmas Eve with all the cousins." Joey whispered.

"I can't wait." Fallon smiled.

Liam heard what they said and broke into a broad smile. He would make this a yearly tradition, open house every Christmas eve. For all the family and close friends.

All that was missing was Keiran. No one really mentioned the people by name, Declan, Irenie, Keiran. But their absences were keenly felt by all.

Liam slipped out for a cigarette, he didn't smoke much neither did Darcy, less all the time. One pack would do them both for a month, sometimes they went stale before they finished. They both really should quit altogether. For Dec 24 it was mild, the air heavy with moisture, no doubt was going to be a rainy Christmas. The sounds of laughter trickled out though the darkened glass windows. The open house concept was working great, people coming and going all night, he liked that. People had other obligations, they could go and come back later. Hope he didn't run out of booze or food.

There was a rustling of tree branches as a wind came up suddenly. A deep voice echoed through the air. "Hi, dad."

Liam dropped his cigarette and whirled around. "Private property, private party, leave now." Liam snarled.

"That's no way to talk to your son." The voice said, bemused. Liam looked toward the nursery. "No, not Keiran. Another son. Not born yet but soon. I won't bother with a name."

Liam was incredulous. Was this someone's idea of a joke, or did someone slip one of those hippie hallucinogens in his Irish Whiskey earlier? "What is this, some ghost-of-the-Christmas-future shit? What's the phrase? 'Bah, humbug.' I'll call some guys out here that will be happy to see you off the property."

"Oh? Like Mike, or Greg, his son? Or your brother Joey maybe...or we can wait for the Byrne brothers, the ones that aren't in prison. You had a cheese omelet for breakfast this morning, you and mother made love right before. I think I was just conceived and so soon after Keiran. Tsk"

"Holy...fuck." Liam whispered in disbelief.

"This is some nightmare. Or I had way too much booze. Or I am losing it." Liam replied.

The young man shrugged. "Whatever. Just call it a friendly warning. You...all of you, think the worst is behind you. There is more to come. Not all of it will be bad, since we are talking Dickens, he said, 'it was the best of times, it was the worst of times?' That will pretty much sum up your lives. Kind of sums your life up, doesn't it dad?"

"All these people, all swirl around you, you are the center, the eye of the hurricane. But deep down, you know that." The young man said almost wistfully.

Liam could not believe any of this. He should yell for help but who would hear him over the holiday din of laughter and Christmas music? "Is this the part where you show me my tombstone off in some neglected corner of a graveyard?"

The young man laughed. "No, not yet. Actually you will live to a ripe old age." he motioned his head toward the house. "In fact, you will outlive a lot of people in there. Be head of quite the clan. Everyone will look to you, shit, they do that now. You will live, experience triumphs and heartbreaks. It will be a life well lived for all its continued ups and downs."

"All I want-all I have EVER wanted, is peace." Liam said firmly.

The young man smiled. "Sorry, not in the cards. Oh you will have years here and there of peace and contentment. But peace for you will be an elusive thing. Same with all the lives that touch yours. Hurricane sums it up. More drama but hell, you can take it, you're Liam De Luca. You survived this year."

Liam's hand went to his neck, rubbing it in stress like he often did.

"Oh fuck me." Liam moaned. He closed his eyes. Let the guy be gone when he opened them again. Let it all be some alcohol fueled brain fart. He waited for 2 whole minutes. The young man was actually a mix of he and Darcy. You could see it. Naw, insane, all of it.

The deep voice, eerily similar to his own, said gently, "I'm still here."

Liam visibly jumped back. So much for the brain fart.

Just be prepared. Stay strong. Be the rock that you have been, especially this past year. Some of those people will need you. And the crime aspect?" The young man paused. His voice lowered to a hoarse whisper..."It's not over."

The door banged opened suddenly and drew Liam's attention away. When he turned back, the young man was gone like a damned puff of smoke.

"Liam, what are you doing out here all by yourself? Come inside, people are asking for you." Darcy asked. She saw that Liam was trembling. "Are you cold? It's not that cold out maybe you need something hot, there is warm cider inside."

He was shaking. Of all the things that apparition had to say, the crime thing stabbed him through his soul. No...should he click his heels and say 'There's no place like home'? Or at 40 years old was he ready for the looney bin. He couldn't tell anyone about this, not even Darcy. They would be calling for the strait jacket.

He whirled around and grabbed Darcy, he wanted to feel that she was real, that he was real. That all this wasn't some dream. He pulled her close, the sweetness of her, the lushness, never get tired of her. Never. He was getting aroused, thank Christ, he was still alive.
He kissed her, all along her chin and down her soft neck.

'A life well lived.' Well he would make damned sure the premonition came true. Starting with Darcy. He didn't know how long they had, if they were even going to have more kids. Or what would happen to anyone in there, laughing and drinking rum and eggnog.
All he knew when he was in her arms. he was home.

~THE END~

EPILOGUE: 1974

Lena is living alone with her son, Torin in a modest home while working shift work as a receptionist at a police precinct (Trevon got her the job) Her life the past four years have been full of raising her son by Rory O'Carroll. (Torin born in-game from Rory and Lena, he's cute!)

Rory is still a fugitive, but he can no longer stay away from Lena. He is still in love with her. He became a successful business in Maine but his life is empty. He comes back to Rockland and is shocked to see Lena has a son-his son. Even though Trevon find out and is tempted to turn Rory in, he lets Lena and Torin follow Rory back to Maine where they live out their days happily.

Brogan becomes a big-ass rock star with his band Byrne N' Flame.

Snort, a little photoshop magic. His relationship with Casey becomes shaky as Brogan indulges in the normal rock star trappings of drugs, booze, women. Also being away on the road for over a year strains them further. They break up.

However, not all is lost for Brogan. His new manager, Karin Kelleger is brought in to get him to straighten up and fly right. They soon fall in love. Brogan does clean up his act and the couple eventually marry and have their happily ever after.

Not all is lost for Casey, She and Reese find their way to each other and Casey follows Reese back to Dublin where Reese starts up a successful business.

Greg does get that degree in criminology and eventually becomes a detective working out of his father's precinct. He is still having his moments, but eventually he and Shana do get together. Also he and Mike grow closer as well. Mike is promoted to Inspector.

Greg is partnered with Domingo as Trevon has moved over to Narcotics. Domingo and Bonnie are living together and eventually will marry.

Mike and Myrna have had a strong friendship which only moved into much more in the last six months. It took a long while for the both of them to move past their hurt. They become a solid couple.

Lorcan gets out of prison at last and Julie is at the door to greet him. While Lorcan find the transition difficult, he soon settles back into running his business and a serene domesticity with Julie and her son Byrne. They have a couple of kids of their own. Happy ending!

Penelope shows back up in town with her twin boys, Connor and Kyle, Connor is obviously Domingo's son, Kyle is Jimmy's. (both born in -game, aren't they cute?) It causes some upheaval temporarily in Bonnie and Domingo's relationship, but they soon work things out.

Penelope tries to pick up the pieces with Jimmy but too much time has gone by, plus he is angry she left town without telling him or Domingo they were fathers. Eventually they make peace and Jimmy will be a part of his son's life. Penelope for her part has been in therapy for the last four years and Jimmy sees the difference in her. She is a good mother. They decide to try again, but take things much more slowly.

Liam is still happily married, here he is with son Keiran. Liam and Darcy have a second son, Asher or Ash for short. He was the young man above in the Dickensian scene. I had plans of making Asher the De Luca who gets back into crime if I got to the 1980's. Oh well.

I think this covers the plots that were still slightly open. If I forgot anyone let me know.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I want to thank everyone who ever read this long standing saga, especially those who took the time to comment. You gave me the feedback on characters and plots that gave me the incentive to actually write stories I could sell to publishers.

I have had a lot of fun doing sims stories the past 5+ years, and I will still be doing it privately for my own story boarding purposes. I wish everyone continued enjoyment with your own stories and any other writing endeavors you may have.

Cheers~ and stay in touch with me at my author site at karyngerrard.com

CHAPTER 75

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SEVENTY-FIVE: American Woman

2012-01-14T13:22:00.003-06:00

Chapter 75: American Woman

Lorcan was stunned afresh every time he came to Vinnie's cell. A leather couch? Color TV? Wool blankets and feather pillows? A kitchenette? Jaysus!
Vinnie was in a private cell down the hall from the hospital wing, removed from the general prison population. Must be nice.
All at once a blood-curdling scream rang out, followed by maniacal laughter.

Vinnie sighed. "One of the drawbacks of being so close to the medical wing. Sounds like O'Dwyer again, ex-cop. They are getting ready to ship him out to the asylum outside of Baltimore. He finally cracked."

"Cracked? From what?" Lorcan asked.

Vinnie kept digging in his fridge for his ingredients. "I just got an order of fresh bread from Titus Bakery, take a few loaves with you when you go." Vinnie paused. "What were we talking about? Oh yeah, Teagan O'Dwyer. He was passed around like a party favor. The powers that be finally clued in they should keep cops or ex-cops separate from the rest of the animals. Too late for O'Dwyer. He's a babbling madman, now." Vinnie snickered.

Lorcan shuddered. "Is there nothing that goes on in this zoo that you don't know about?"

Vinnie reached for the deli potato salad. "Nope. I know it all."

Lorcan leaned against the wall. "I don't get it, you're never getting out of here, your crime family is done so why do you hold such power?"

Vinnie chortled. 'It's my past reputation more than anything. Plus, I let it be known I still have some sway on the streets."

Lorcan cocked an eyebrow. "Do you? Still have sway?"

Vinnie slammed the fridge door. "I'm not telling you."

Lorcan was stunned, did the old clack still have power on the street? Impossible. He looked around the cell. "So where is your 'Lennie Small?' He's usually right at your shoulder."

"Ah, 'Of Mice and Men' reference, so you do read, Lorcan. Not totally stupid. Larry is eating with the inmates tonight, I wanted us to be alone."

Lorcan walked over to the chair and glanced longingly at Vinnie's overstuffed bookcase before he sat down. "Aye, I read. I always did. I may not have finished school but I always did like to read. Still do."

Vinnie was furiously chopping some fresh tomatoes. "I might be able to get you library privileges."

Lorcan leaned forward. He didn't want to be beholden to Vinnie anymore than he already was. Bad enough the other men snickered when he left his cell, escorted to Vinnie's every Friday night. "De Luca's Friday Night Manmeat" he was being called. Well, beats being raped in the shower or anyplace else. He still was alone in his cell, was that Vinnie's doing as well? The cell was for two occupants.

He wasn't stupid enough not to accept Vinnie's protection-to a point. "And what do I have to do to have access to books? I shudder to think."

Vinnie began slicing the mozza cheese. "I have a side business in here, I am selling pills. But I don't want you anywhere near that. I already have a couple of guys handling it.One reason I get these extras. What I want from you is more personal in nature."

"Jaysus, No fecking way. I told you I don't swing that way!" Lorcan spat out.

Vinnie rolled his eyes. "Neither do I, you idiot! I get a monthly visit from a dancer I used to know, I don't need to turn to men to satisfy my animal lust. And even if I did, I wouldn't turn to you!"

"Thank Christ." Lorcan murmured.

"I want to meet my grandson, Byrne." He snickered at the name. "I got to hand it to Julie, she made her alliance known naming Keiran's son after you. I can overlook that." Vinnie began to stir the Tomato Bisque on the stove. "That child is all that is left of Keiran. I want him to know me even if it is a monthly visit. I want you to arrange it, I will be generous, You will get those library privileges, some better sheets, a real mattress that sort of thing."

Vinnie turned the soup down on simmer and took a seat at the table.

You honestly think you can bribe me with bedding and books? Julie will never agree and I don't blame her."

"She will be bringing the boy to see you, isn't she?" Vinnie prodded.

Lorcan sighed. "We haven't decided that, not a good environment for a child."

Vinnie laughed softly. "He's only a baby. He won't know the difference. I want to hold him, see him. You'd make an old man happy. Once a month, all I ask. Until you get out then we can discuss it again. I will share my extras with you. Ones I can, like the books and the bedding. Staying alone in the cell. Protection. A bottle of wine once in a while. Fresh baked goods. It's like gold in here and you know it."

Lorcan shook his head. "You really are the bleedin' Pied Piper, aren't you? And Byrne is not all that is left of Keiran, Erin O'Carroll is giving birth to Keiran's child in January some time and Joey and his wife are adopting it, seeing as Erin O'Carroll may be in jail for 18-20 years."

Vinnie face broke into a smile. "I...I...didn't know that."

"Well, guess you don't know everything. I will talk to Julie when she comes for her weekly visit but I am promising nothing. It's up to her. You're not her favorite person."

"I appreciate it and if you could put in a good word for me with Liam, I know he comes to see you. I made a lot of mistakes this last year, I want to correct some."Vinnie said earnestly.

Lorcan smiled, shaking his head. "Jaysus, fine. Let's eat, I'm feckin' starving. At least you can cook."

"Of course I can cook, I'm Italian!" Vinnie smiled.

Julie was having the dream again. She knew it was only a dream, because Lorcan was gone. Out of her bed. In prison. But she dreamed this anyway, not that they had ever been in one of those new hot tubs things but as soon as she saw an ad in a magazine for the new Jacuzzi, she had been dreaming of this constantly. Her and Lorcan in warm, bubbling water.

It was almost painful to dream this but she did. The nearness, the scent, musky and spicy and everything masculine and muscular and strong. Those dimples. Those lips. The hair. He loved long hair. Joked he would been some old bastard of 70 with white hair to his shoulders. She would welcome it. He wouldn't be Lorcan without the long hair. Those expressive light green eyes of his which showed all manner of emotions. Always. Tender, wild and always passionate.

Never get enough, never. But she was now reduced to dreaming instead of living. She should be angry at him for putting their love and life in jeopardy like he did. She should be angry at herself, for falling for another man who lived life on the edge. He broke the law. And she knew it. She was an ex-cop for Christ's sake, yet she fell for the criminals. A flaw in her own personality.
Mad at herself for encouraging him to look out for Keiran. He might have been out earlier and avoided all this. Maybe. Who knows? All she did know is that she loved him. Desperately.

He was insatiable and an amazing lover. For those three months, this was all they did, no wonder it filled her dreams. He insisted she go on the pill, he would not leave her pregnant and alone while he was in prison. She already had one baby to deal with. She wished now she flushed the pills down the toilet.

He flipped her onto her back and continued his wild, tender ministering. She could feel every thrust, hear every groan. It was so real it was heart breaking.

She raised her hips to meet him, he moved faster. Never ending, hours went by or so it seemed.
She couldn't tear her eyes from his face. It was so expressive, it always was. His face.

His face, seared in her brain, so gorgeous, so perfect. So handsome. The love radiating from his flushed cheeks and the tenderness in his eyes. She was ready and he was ready to explode. Always intense. Always beyond. Always...love.

And then...he would leave her. Abruptly and without a word. A cold, lonely breeze would surround her body. And she would plead, beg for him not to leave her.
But he always did. He would look back with regret on his face but he still left.

Julie snapped awake. Oh God. How in hell could she do this for the next three years? Her body was throbbing, like he really had made love to her. It was cruel. These dreams. To make her long for him so much.
Her heart was literally contracting in her chest. The pain. The agony and yes the damned torment.

She laid on the bed, looking over at the empty pillow. Where he used to lay, his long, thick, luxurious hair would be spread out on the sheets, his solid warmth would protect her. His love would shield her. Engulf her.
They would get through this. They took a solid, sworn oath. That they would never forget.
Never.

"You're barred. Go home, Dark Eyes." Reese rumbled dangerously.

"You don't run this club. You don't OWN it. You or your brother have no say." Callie hissed.

"We do while he is performing, it's in his contract. We reserve the right to refuse any patrons' That's you. And he's on stage. So, leave. Now."

Reese could see the anger building, bubbling like some dangerous brew in a cauldron. Appropriate for the woman was a witch.
She was ready to blow. He had to play this right or he may not get another chance.

"You're not leaving. I can get the bouncer. He won't be as polite as I am. Brogan never wants to see you again. and neither do I for that matter. Unhinged chicks give me the willies."

She stalked up to him, shoving him aside but Reese just grabbed her arm and flung her around until she hit the brick wall.

"Don't fecking push me." Reese snarled. "We know what you did to Brogan's room, the destruction and the rat was a nice touch. What kind of sick mind comes up with such a scheme? And how did you get in, the door was locked. Clever minx."

"I picked the lock, it was easy enough to do." She growled.

Reese smiled inwardly. "Aye, where did you get all that garbage? And no one saw you. And you brought tools with you to smash the furniture and the guitar. You know how much the guitar meant to Brogan?"

"Good! I'm glad I did it, I'll do it again, changing the locks won't stop me and neither will you!"

Callie reached under her wool coat at brought out a rather large carving knife, holding high above her head, she did not hesitate, she brought in down in a slashing movement where Reese stood.

He managed to jump back out of the way, almost losing his footing, if he hadn't, she would have opened him up from neck to nuts. She was ready to strike again, Reese yelled out, "DETECTIVES! She has a knife!"

Be damned if he was trying to get it away from her. She was snarling and slashing at air.

Domingo and Trevon rounded the corner in a matter of seconds.

"Freeze! Or my partner here will shoot you. Drop the knife...NOW." Trevon yelled.

Callie froze as if weighing her options. She looked at the cop with the gun. She dropped the knife.

While Trevon cuffed her, Domingo bagged the knife and walked over to Reese
.
"You alright man? She didn't cut you?" Domingo questioned.

"No, came close though. Damn, she really is cracked. Did you get everything you needed?"

Domingo nodded. "Break and enter, Vandalism and now if you want to press charges, assault, even attempted murder if you like."

"Aye. Whatever will put her away the longest. She needs help." Reese said.

"I am sure any lawyer she gets will order a psych-evaluation. She may get time at the asylum. I will need you to come down the station and make a statement. Your brother as well, when he can."

"Aye, I'll be along shortly, my brother will be down tomorrow, I'll see to it. My word on that." Reese replied.

"I...I only wanted him to notice me...love me..." Callie kept repeating over and over.

Trevon pushed her forward toward their car. Jesus. Crazy woman. God knows what she would have done to this Brogan Byrne or his brother. Lucky they got her when they did.

Casey came outside just as Domingo and Trevon were putting Callie in the car.

"Did...I see the detective with a knife? Oh Reese, are you all right?" She asked worriedly.

"Aye lass, don't worry your pretty head. The coppers were just around the corner. And they heard her admit to everything. It's over, she is going to prison for a long time. I'll see to that."

"I am so glad it is over, and you...or Brogan, were not hurt." she reached out and touched his arm.

He audibly drew in a sharp breath. But it didn't stop him from touching her arm as well. She was a glorious looking lady. Brogan knew how to pick them, he always did. And she was sweet natured. He wondered as Brogan got more famous, how she would be able to handle it all.

Casey suddenly gave him a friendly hug. "I am so glad you are here, Reese. Brogan can pursue his music and we can keep the family business running."

His face broke into a smile. He pulled her closer, his hand slowly stroking her back. She didn't flinch or pull away. Did he hear a soft sigh? Bollocks. Not bloody likely.

He stepped back quickly. Oh shite. The rush of desire that flooded through him did its job, he was aroused. Fully. And he dare not let her feel him in such a state. This was Brogan's girlfriend, what the feck was he thinking?

"Go inside, sweet. Be with Brogan. Tell him I am going down to the police station to make my statement, then I'll come back." He whispered.

She gave him one last glorious smile, then turned and headed back inside.
Reese rubbed his neck in irritation.
He had to work with this woman. Daily. How in hell...He couldn't touch her. Ever. One thing a Byrne did not do was invade any other brother's territory.

He closed his eyes. But he wanted to. Badly. He wanted to back her up against the brick wall and kiss her until their lips were numb.
He should leave, now. Back to feckin' Dublin.
But he gave his word to Lorcan.
Damn.

Darcy and Liam stood outside the stucco manor they were about to move into. The sale went through, their other house sold at a nice profit as Liam had predicted. Plus he still had money from the other home, plus his share of his father's stash. He was also protecting Keiran's money. When Liam saw the amount, he was stunned. Over 600,000. First thing Liam did was set up trusts for Byrne and the child when born that Joey and Fallon were adopting. He also set an amount aside for Erin. She would be getting out of prison around 1987. Keiran would want her looked after. Besides, it was Erin who told Liam where the money was. The rest? Liam thought long and hard, because Keiran left no real instructions. He decided for now, to invest it. He took none for himself.

The police asked questions but nothing was proved. Only Darcy knew about the money, no one else and it was staying that way.

Darcy had the baby about five days ago, she was two weeks early but delivered a baby boy. A son. Liam could not be more proud. He named him as promised, Keiran. He had his mother's gorgeous blue eyes. He and Darcy were already talking about having another as quickly as possible. They originally said three but maybe two was enough plus Liam's two daughters. They would see.

Keiran cooed happily. Oblivious to the man he was named after. But Liam would tell him. Tell him and Keiran's children about the man who was missed more with each passing day.
But what was a giant relief, no one was involved in crime any longer. The De Luca Crime family was no more.
But the De Luca family...was thriving and growing.

Christ knows what the future would bring, Liam thought to himself as he watched Darcy cuddle Keiran close. So much had happened already. 1970, as he and Mike said, was for the books. Mike Leary, his best friend and would be godfather to Keiran. Mike, who suffered his own devastating loss this year.

He glanced at the house, it was almost the end of October, they had 6 weeks to get the house ready. Because Christmas Eve the family was gathering here. Drinking a toast for better times to come. Because that is what was important...family.

~TO BE CONCLUDED~

Chapter 74

Chapter 76 (conclusion)

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SEVENTY-FOUR: A Lover's Prayer

2012-01-12T13:38:00.004-06:00

Chapter 74: A Lover's Prayer

She finally did it. With a mug of hot cocoa, a roaring fire and a Virgina Slims cigarette she finally read Domingo's letters.
All of them in order, like he asked.
She glanced at the flames, the wood snapped and crackled in the hearth.
She had actually read them twice just to let it sink in, become real.

Tears spilled down her cheeks, like someone turned on a facet. The letters were raw and wrenching. He told her of his life and his disappointments. The emotion he evoked and crafted in his words moved her like no other thing she had ever read.

I know that I have hurt you for what I've done and I am asking for your forgiveness and hoping that we could start all over again. I really cherish those moments we had. Far too brief. To quote Robert Browning:

I could with all the past were to do over again, that in it I might somewhat more, never so little more, conform in the outward homage, to the inward feeling, What I have professed, (for I have performed nothing) seems to fall short. I am not worthy. Words can never tell you, however, form them, transform them anyway, how perfectly dear you are to me, perfectly dear to my heart and soul."

He quoted Browning. She was stunned.

She sat up. He did not declare any deep, abiding love. His letters were not full of that. Only explanation, not excuses. Deep feeling, remorse, regret and affection. But not love. Actually, she was glad he did not profess any love, she knew he would have been lying. But he was not lying here. She knew it. With every pen stroke, he laid he soul bare.
He was not generous toward himself. Stated he was far from perfect. Stated he would no doubt screw up again, somehow. Some way.
But with her, he wanted to try. To be a honorable man. Worthy of her attention.

She reached over and grasped a few of the letters tightly in her hand. They had hardly begun. Really, what did she know of him? A few dinners, a lot of making out. How could he feel so deeply in so brief a time? She never dreamed she would affect a man so. Not one as beautiful as Domingo Espinosa.
She knew because she felt it too. That's why his betrayal cut so deep. She was afraid. To risk her heart and her feelings. To such an imperfect man. But that is what made him...perfect.

This was a rare occurrence, Liam never stopped by the station house before. When the desk sergeant called and told him Liam was here, he had him buzzed through.
Even though he and Liam talked every couple of days on the phone, lately, they had not seen each other. Work had Mike in knots. And what was left, he doled out to his kids. He hadn't even had a chance to tell Liam he took his advice and took a woman to dinner.

"Liam! This is a surprise! Can you go to lunch? We can go to that sports bar around the corner, 'The Catcher's Mitt', they have great hot hamburger sandwiches."

"Great. First though, I have some news."

Liam took a seat. "Cindi called, I wanted to tell you in person, the surgery Devlin had last week? It paid off. He moved his leg and wiggled his toes. It worked, with the bullet removed successfully, the swelling has receded. And feeling is coming back into his lower body." Liam took a breath, "At this rate of recovery, they could be home next spring. If all goes well, he could be back to work next summer. Isn't this great?"

Mike was elated, best goddamned news he had heard in ages. That means their granddaughter would be back as well.
"Liam, that is fantastic! I've got to tell Greg, why don't we swing by the clinic before we go to lunch? I have someone I want you meet anyway..."

Liam's smile faded. "Mike, Greg hates me. You are going to have to accept the fact that the twins and I will never be close." He swallowed deeply, a bitter taste in his mouth. Yeah, except for the fact he slept with Donna over a period of a few weeks last year. Christ, if Mike ever found out...he could never know. He didn't want to hurt his friend that way. It would smash their renewed friendship beyond all repair. There were certain lines you did not cross and Liam selfishly stepped over that line. Excuses be damned.

Mike opened his mouth to argue, but Liam shook his head. "No, Don't force me on Greg. When Cindi, Devlin and Lyn return, we will deal with it then."

The men stood. "Well, I will run in and tell him quickly before we go to the bar, I want to tell him in person ." Mike smiled. "Our granddaughter Liam." Mike laid an affectionate squeeze on Liam's shoulder.

Liam nodded, "Yeah." he whispered. "Who were you going to have me meet?"

Mike laughed. "I took your advice. I asked a woman to dinner."

Liam banged Mike on the arm non too gently. "No shit? Who?"

"Myrna McKenzie. Greg's counselor. Lovely woman. We will be seeing each other as friends." Mike emphasized the word, 'friends'. He saw the slow smile creep across Liam's face. "Don't get any ideas, neither one of us are ready for anything more than friends, take my word on that. But I want to thank you Liam, I never would have asked her if you hadn't encouraged me."

"Damn Mike, I am just glad you are getting out. I do want to meet her, soon. Let's go eat. I'm starving."

Kane could not believe what he was hearing. Jimmy Doyle was pulling out.
"But I need you, you deal with the gangs, I don't know them! What am I going to do?" Kane flustered.

Jimmy shrugged. "I can call them, see if they want to deal with you, my guess is they will find someone else. They don't like dealing with unknowns. Even if I vouch for you, it may not be enough."

"But I don't understand, what changed?" Kane groused.

"The money is not worth the risk. Not to me, not any longer." Jimmy exhaled slowly. "I am making good money at the club. Those blokes took a chance on me, I don't want to feck it up, simple as that. Besides, didn't you read in the paper? The coppers are cracking down, it is just a matter of time. Believe it. Get out Kane. That's my advice. You're not a bad kid." Kid, Kane was what...2 years younger? He seemed even younger to Jimmy, vulnerable and innocent.

"I need the money, man...I can't walk away. I have commitments."

Jimmy could see the worry and concern on Kane's face. Thing of it was, he liked this guy, felt he could trust him or he never would have went into selling pills with him. But he was giving away far too much on his face here. Thanks to all the shite with the Ulsters and the IRA, Jimmy could read a man very well.

"Come over and take a seat, Kane." Jimmy urged.

"Alright Boyo, who is pulling your strings? There is someone else here workin' all the switches, it's a bigger network than you have let on. Probably bigger than you know. Are you in that deep that you can't get out? Let me help you. You must have made a pile of knicker, a pile of bread as you Americans call it, enough to tide you over until you find some decent job."

Kane couldn't tell him. He couldn't tell him that he had fallen for a man. He was suddenly covered in embarrassment. Like someone as rough as the scarred Jimmy Doyle would understand that two men could have deep feelings for each other. It wasn't accepted. They could never go public. Kane knew for a fact that homosexuality was listed in physicians manuals as a form of mental illness. Yeah, he checked. What he and Tristan did was illegal in most states, hell it was illegal in Maryland! No way could he ever speak of it aloud.
He still didn't understand. Because a beautiful woman walked by him just the other day and he had a reaction.
He was so fucking confused.

"Jimmy, I appreciate your concern. And your offer of help. I will think about what you said. I don't know what kind of job I could get. All my schooling is geared toward writing. Its what I want to do."

"Kane mate, I told you before, it doesn't put food on the table. What if I speak to Nick Moretti, maybe you can work some shifts at the club. You can keep writing. Think about it. Listen, stay awhile, I'll go get us a couple of beers."

He could hear Jimmy rummaging through his fridge down in the kitchen area. Work. He had never really had a job before. He only graduated this past spring. It did bear thinking about. Relying on the pills was stupid. It wouldn't last. He had to talk to Tristan. About a lot of things. What future did they have? He wasn't a homo. He cringed, that word. But he now accepted he was bi-sexual. May never find another man attractive again, who knows? But he swung both ways. He still couldn't believe it. He had a lot to think about.

Greg stood in the front foyer of the 'small' house over on Wellesley Avenue. This was not what he imagined. He figured, 700 square feet tops. This was close to three times that size, what in the fuck would he do rattling around in a place like this?

The thought of trying to keep this clean filled him with dread. Arrangements were made for some housekeeper to come by a couple of times a week, like he was a helpless baby. But after seeing this, he would welcome the damned help.

He walked into the large kitchen/dining room. Furnished too. All new stuff. His heart tightened in his chest. Cindi and Devlin did this for him. One of those new side by side fridges. A gas range. He didn't deserve their kindness.

He glanced behind him, new leather sofa and chair. A 20" Television, color, no less. He exhaled. A garage, for his non-existent car. Could turn it into a workout area, he supposed.

Yeah, he was going to take the house. To walk out now would be an insult to Dev and Cindi and he didn't want to hurt them for the world. His father had told him yesterday about Devlin's recovery and they would soon be home. Along with his daughter, the daughter he had never seen. He had to try and get his act together and fast.

But then what? He glanced out the side window, Shana was waiting for him in her car. He still hadn't made up his mind what came next. He was leaning toward finishing his B.A. then maybe a degree in criminology. Maybe it was in his blood, but he wanted to be involved somehow in law enforcement. Or maybe a lawyer. That's if he could even manage to attend classes at college, people all around him, sit in a large lecture hall without running out of the room screaming at the top of his fucking lungs.

He had so far to go. So many mountains to climb. And Shana? He was purposely keeping her in his 'friends only' column for the foreseeable future. He knew, if he let her get close he would break down and cry like a damned baby. He wasn't ready for a lot of things. A woman in his life, most of all.

Donna and Trevon had had a rough couple of months since his coming clean about his undercover and his lies. They had not been out together much, work and responsibilities. It was still early evening and The Groovy Nook was usually quiet this time of night. Quiet enough to share a intimate drink. He offered his apartment but Donna gently refused, as she had done for weeks. Like she didn't want to be alone with him for some reason. They had not made love since that first week after he came by her house. She stepped back from the physical side of their relationship and he let her.

But it had gone on long enough. Trevon wanted to move things along. He reached over and touched her hand, the bottle of Riesling was chilled perfectly and ready to be poured. Just the barest touch of her fingers set him on fire. A five alarm frigging blaze. Not having her in his bed only increased the flame's intensity.

Her hand slowly trailed up his arm. Donna knew how and where to touch him for maximum effect. She always did. Even though they really had only made love a few times. He wanted more. Now.

"Donna I want you to move in with me, share my life. The apartment is big enough for the both of us. And it's not far from college. I love you baby. Say you will."

Donna moved her hand away and looked off. "I...I can't. Trevon. I can't move in with you."

"Why?" he cried out, a little louder than he wished to.

"My family needs me. I can't leave Dylan or my father. That boy has no one. Dad works long hours, you know that and I am not letting my little brother be raised by a parade of housekeepers and babysitters. I can't do it, I won't do it."

Trevon fought to get his emotions under control. "You are not the boy's mother."

"No." Donna said softly. "She was killed in front of his eyes. I am his half-sister. But if I have to be sister and mother to Dylan, I will do it. In fact, I am dropping out of college. Dylan is more important. I have to make him my top priority."

Jesus. His heart was being squeezed and battered here. While a part of him admired her devotion to her brother and her family, the selfish part of him was hurt to his core. If he knew love was this damned difficult, this gut wrenching, he would have run in the other direction.

"So what are you saying here, we have no future?" Trying to keep the bitterness out of his voice was futile.

"You did this before with Indelli, didn't you? As soon as he wanted something more permanent, you dropped him. Is that what you are doing Donna, kicking me aside?" His first clenched on the table, grabbing some tablecloth. He wanted to whip it right off and let the bottles and glasses smash to the floor such were his emotions at the moment.

She stared at him, her face unreadable. Finally she said, "You and Joey are not the same at all. I wasn't ready to commit to Joey, with you? I am ready, but I can't."

"Why do you think I have kept my distance? Because of your undercover? I am over that. I get why you did what you did. I still don't like it but I dig it."

Trevon was floored. "Then what..."

"Because I can't give you what you want Trevon. For once in my life, I am going to do something for someone else, rather than for myself and if that means I lose you, then so be it. My family needs me. All of them. Dad, Greg, Dylan. And I am going to be there for them. Be strong for once. I want to be what my mother never was, strong, loving. Sacrificing all, for family. I don't want to be selfish like she was."

Donna stood. "I had better go. I told Dad I wouldn't be long, I want to tuck Dylan in to bed for the night. Goodbye Trevon."

She began to walk away. His brain could not process all she said. Good-Bye? Like hell good-bye!

He followed her outside, grabbed her arm and spun her around until she was against the bricks. He framed her in with his hands and his body. "You don't get to walk away. Not like this. I love you Donna. Do you still love me?"

She looked up into his eyes, there were tears threatening to spill over in hers. "Yes Trevon, I love you. But I won't ask you to wait..."

"Wait for what, your father to remarry? That could be years, if at all. Dylan to start high school? Greg to get past his war experiences and live again? What about you?" He demanded.

" I don't matter."

"Don't you ever say that, not to me. I love you girl and if I have to move into your daddy's damned garage and curl up with the cans of oil just to be near you, I will. I am going no where. And you are not doing this alone. I am part of your life. I am your life, accept it."

Her hands moved slowly up his chest, wringing a moan from his lips. She smiled, her hands curled in contentment. "Oh Trevon." she whispered.

"We'll talk to your father. See if he will take me on as a boarder. See if he will accept us sharing a room. If not, we'll deal with it. You are not alone Donna. I want to be there and help you. Do you hear me? Feel me?"

Donna nodded. "Yes. We''ll talk to dad. Right away. Come home with me now."

Christ knows what the future would bring. As long as he was with her, loving her, he knew it would be alright.

A few nights later:

'We have to talk, Tris." Kane murmured. It was hard to concentrate as Tris was laying light kisses on his cheeks, his eyes, his lips.

"So...talk." Tristan growled.

"I can't do this anymore. The pills-us. It is getting complicated, dangerous on so many levels. It is my sheer luck my sister hasn't caught us yet."

Tristan's hand stroked his cheek. "Where is she, out with that wanna-be rock star?"

"Yes...I..." Tristan was fresh out of the shower, he smelled like clean, crisp water, soap and spice. God. His knees were turning to liquid, he could barely form a sentence being this close to him.

"Why are you frightened?" Tristan cupped his cheek, Kane moaned, turning to kiss the warm palm.

"Jimmy is out, those gangs may look elsewhere, the cops..."

Tristan stroked his cheek soothingly. "You never told Doyle about me, right?"

"No. Never." Kane said firmly.

"Then to hell with him, we don't need him anymore, more for us. Get the names and I will contact them myself or get O'Shaunessey to do it. This is better you'll see."

Kane scrambled to his feet and walked away, Jimmy's words of warning still reverberating in his head. Tristan got to his feet and walked up behind him, stroking his skin, whispering in his ear. The man was temptation himself. "I don't think I want to do this. The pills. Jimmy says..."

"I don't care what Doyle says." Tristan growled. "I will look after you, I promise. Always."

"And what of us?" Kane stated. His heart was rolling around in his chest like a bowling ball.

Tristan backed Kane against the wall, slamming his hand on the wall above his head. "I don't know. This is all new to me. I only know I want to be with you all the time. You are first on my mind every morning, last when I sleep. Everyone tells us it is wrong, what we feel. Society, the law. Everyone. But I can't help it and I can't fight it anymore. I am in love with you Kane."

Kane's hands froze on Tristan's back. Jesus. Love? Had it come to that? He looked into Tristan's eyes, he could see the love but also pain, confusion and torment. Everything he was feeling as well. How can anything that feels so wonderful, be so wrong? And hurt so damned much?

It was true. He was feeling it as well, had for a long time now. But he always thought he was some temporary fling to Tristan. That what they had was from some vicarious thrill to try something different. Like trying a new, illegal drug. To have it turn into love was something neither counted on.
Kane smiled. "You love me, really? Because Tris, I love you too. Deeply. Always. Now what do we do?"

Tristan's hand stroked Kane's bare chest. "Maybe you should move into my apartment. We better get a two bedroom, give the illusion of separate rooms. We will have to hide this, you know that. If the job ever found out."

Kane wasn't sure about that, he couldn't leave Casey. But for now, all that mattered, is they loved each other. Never was he so damned happy.

Outside, Trevon and Domingo had followed Tristan to the Ryan's. Domingo didn't go near the house but scoped out the perimeter before getting back in the car. They had been following Tristan O'Shea as much as they were able. They told Mike Leary about the anonymous source. Though shocked and a little skeptical, he okayed the surveillance on Tristan. Domingo and Trevon followed him when they could so far, he done nothing incriminating. Though he did come to this house a lot.

Domingo got back in and slammed the door. "All clear."

"What are they doing in there?" Trevon inquired.

"What all guys do, watch football and drink beer I would imagine. I didn't look. I didn't think it was wise I be creeping about the place looking in windows. The neighbors lights are on, we could get made. Do just this Ryan guy and his sister live here?"

"Yeah, dispatch said their names are Kane and Casey Ryan, 23 and 22, parents deceased. Are you sure this anonymous tip is legit? I mean, he's done nothing out of the ordinary..."

Domingo cut him off. "Rock solid, all the way. I trust this person with my life."

Trevon turned toward Domingo, an eyebrow raised. "So this is not some junkie looking for payback or revenge. Some snitch from the streets, is it?"

"No. It isn't." Domingo replied.

Trevon thought a minute. "Jesus, his partner, the one who talked to you in the hall, Naugle, right? This is from her. Is there something going on between you two, I got a vibe."

Domingo gritted his teeth. Damn, Trevon was good. Why lie? This man was his partner. That meant something in police work. If you couldn't trust your partner, then what was the point of all of it? He wouldn't call them exactly friends. But maybe it was time to trust.

"Trevon, I know we haven't really talked about our personal lives. But if you want me to answer that question, you have to answer some of mine."

Trevon nodded. "Okay. Go ahead."

Where to start? He skimmed over the Penelope Prescott part of his tale of woe. Just said Bonnie had caught him with another woman, one he had been involved with before. That he and Bonnie never really got a chance. That Bonnie walked out of his life. Yet, when she overheard that conversation between O'Shea and the other guy, she came to him. "I'll protect her with my dying breath. No one can know the source of the info is from her. Promise me Trevon."

Trevon shook his head. "Yeah man, I promise. Damn, is your life a soap opera or what?"

Domingo laughed softly, but with no humor. "Yeah, that's me. Search for Tomorrow. So, what about you? What has had you in a foul mood for weeks?"

Trevon stared straight ahead. "This stays between us, you dig? I am moving in to Captain's Leary's house. I have been dating his daughter. Met her while I was undercover. It hasn't been a smooth ride, I had to dump her while I was undercover to protect her. I did some hurt to the both of us. You heard what happened to Leary's wife back in March?" Domingo murmured his assent. "Well, Donna won't leave her 6 year old half-brother, so I am moving in. Can you fucking believe this? I will never hear the end of it in the squad room so I want no one to know. Try and keep it secret as long as I can."

"Jesus, you must love her." Domingo observed.

"Yeah. There's a garage out by the pool, it wasn't really being used, Leary is having it done over for Donna and I. A couple of rooms, some privacy."

"The captain is going to let you sleep with his daughter? Under his roof? I never pictured him as the type to be so open minded." Domingo snorted.

"Well, technically, I won't be under his roof. It was a frank talk, But Mike agreed Donna shouldn't give up her life, nor should Dylan suffer another loss if Donna should leave right now. The kid saw the explosion, he needs his family. And I won't be some unfeeling son of a bitch to make her choose between me or her family. I need her."

Trevon's narrative was interrupted by dispatch. A message for Domingo. A Reese Byrne wanted him to call right away.

"Should we go? Nothing going on here. There is a call box 2 blocks over if you want to make the call." Trevon suggested.

Domingo took a last look at the Ryan house, a single light burned in the living room. "Yeah. let's go."
Trevon flicked on the lights and headed down the quiet street.

"Listen, sorry it didn't work out with Naugle." Trevon offered.

Domingo sighed. "I haven't exactly given up yet. I wrote her letters. I wonder now, if I did the right thing. I poured my guts and soul into those words. I don't even know if she's read them. I really am a fuck-up."

"Join the fuck-up club, man, it's a big membership. My advice for what it's worth, if you care about her, don't give up. Give her a little space but then try and talk with her. Be honest, it is how Donna and I worked things out."

Domingo glanced at the Ryan house as they drove past, the light was now out in the living room. Trevon was right. He cared. A lot. He knew instinctively, Bonnie would fill every lonely corner of his heart.

"After the callbox, let say we swing by that burger place over on Lexington. We will pick up our surveillance tomorrow night when he is off shift. We'll get him Dom, he will slip up and soon."

Trevon had never called him Dom before. His voice was almost kind. Domingo felt it. A bud of friendship had taken form. Funny, he had gone years without any friends, now in the space of a month, he had made 2. He and the guy from the bar, Jimmy Doyle had gone out for drinks twice more. They talked of taking in a NFL game in Baltimore. Life was funny.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 73

Chapter 75

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SEVENTY-THREE: Reflections of my Life

2012-01-10T11:25:00.003-06:00

Chapter 73 Reflections Of My Life

Domingo sat stunned in his kitchen. She set him straight. She was here because of business. Christ, he felt stupid now he exposed himself, his heart, and she dismissed it.
He deserved it, he knew that. The fact she was here because she had no one else to turn to...he should take some comfort from that. He guessed. The fact she refused his invitation to go upstairs said it all. She was still upset with him. Still hurt. It was a battle to keep the crushing disappointment off his face and out of his voice.

"So why are you here? What do you mean business?

She sighed. "I overheard something..."

Bonnie related the entire conversation she heard in the alley outside the coffee shop. Shipment, O'Shaunessey, LSD. Her partner. "I couldn't go to the Captain with this, maybe I misheard."

Domingo shook his head. "No, I don't think you did."

"What do I do? If I blow the whistle on him, I will be labeled a snitch for the rest of my career. And there is no real proof. Help me Domingo." She looked up at him. "You were right, you said I would come to you and you would be the only man I could trust. Ironic, isn't it?"

He put his hands behind his head. Yeah, Irony. O'Shea, O'Shaunessey...is that why the pills had a "O" stamped on them, some vanity moniker? Were these guys behind the LSD as well? Good lead. VERY good lead.

"Let Trevon and I go to the Captain, we will tell him we have a anonymous source. I'll keep your name out of it. We can start tailing these guys and build our case."

His eyes narrowed. One of their own, a damned drug dealer.

"Maybe...maybe I can help, try and get some evidence." Bonnie offered.

"NO! No way!" Domingo yelled. He exhaled, trying to calm himself. "I won't have you in anymore danger than you all ready are. Promise me you will let us handle this. Can you act like nothing is going on?"

Bonnie shrugged. "I don't know. I will have to, won't I?"

"If he senses something is off about your partnership, if he suspects you know something, Christ knows what he will do. I won't have you hurt Bonnie. In any way." But she already was hurt, wasn't she? At his hand.

The conversation was starting to take a turn to the more personal. She sensed it.
Bonnie stood to leave.

He rose and walked over to her, his fingers gently touching her chin.He leaned in and let his forehead touch hers. "I am glad you felt you could come to me Bonnie. But I had hoped...that maybe...it was to do with something else. Have you read the letters?"

She had to get out of here. "No.." Well, she sort of read one.

"I know you still have them, all I ask is that you read them all in order, will you do that? Soon?"

It wasn't much what he asked. It was the least she could do, she supposed. He was offering to keep her out of this mess and protect her and her job. She could do this...for him. "Soon. I can't promise when."

She walked down the hall toward the front door. Her cheeks were flushed from being near him. She supposed they could have talked about what happened. But she couldn't even bring herself to go upstairs, where she saw him and her. How was she in any frame of mind to discuss anything?

Domingo watched her leave, his heart...fuck. Like a fresh orange being squeezed on a juicer. He was having serious doubts they could ever get past this. All on him. He learned his lesson but is was too damned late.

Across town at the Glavon Arms, Jimmy watched some man in a uniform approach him. "Am I addressing Mr. James Doyle?"

Oh feck me. "Aye, and who are you, mate?"

"I am Cadbury, the butler. I have been with the Prescott's for many years. Miss Prescott asked me to make her apologies but she cannot see you tonight, she left yesterday morning for an extended trip to Europe. Before you ask, I do not know when she is returning. I am to close up the penthouse for the foreseeable future."

Jimmy was stunned into silence.

The man reached in his side pocket and pulled out a letter.

"Miss Prescott left this for you." He handed the letter to Jimmy.

Jimmy glanced up the stairs. "She really is gone?" He said softly.

"I would not lie sir. She is. Good evening." Cadbury turned and went back upstairs.

He stepped outside, a light rain was falling. He sniffed the letter. Chanel. He looked at the elegant handwriting.
He tore it open.

Jimmy, I am a coward. A sniveling coward. I just could not deal with seeing you, talking with you, being near you. I don't mean that in a bad way. You...affect me.
I am not in a good place, I need some time alone. I don't know when or if I will be back. There is so much going on in my life, I don't know even where to begin.
You don't know me. I'm not a nice person.
I know nothing about you, what was your life in Ireland, how old are you? Why are you working at a strip club?
Yes, I was interested enough to make a small inquiry about you.

There wasn't much to find out. You keep things hidden just like I do.
You said there is something between us, maybe. I just don't know. I can't deal with finding out.
Forget me.
I am not worth your thoughts. Your time.
Maybe some day, we will meet again.
Take care Doyle.

He fisted the letter in his hand. He never dreamed he would be told to feck off in a bloody letter like some solider serving in the army in another country.
But here it was.
She made some inquires about him. Couldn't deal with facing him. Was he that bad? Or was she a fecked up mess as she stated in her letter?
As fecked up as he was. Maybe, this was for the best. If he were to examine it, he was not ready for any relationship.

He walked down the street. he could use a drink. Dedicate one night to drowning his sorrows, then...move on. Forget her? No worries.
He let the letter flutter to the wet pavement in front of him, he stepped on it leaving a muddy print from his boot.
He did not look back.

2. A.M. at the Playpen

Nick Moretti was taking an inventory of the bottles in the storage room before he called it a night, there were 3 bottles of Chivas Regal missing. He would have to talk to Jimmy about it tomorrow afternoon. Probably tucked away somewhere he wasn't aware of. Actually, Jimmy Doyle was alright. Profits had gone up slightly since he was hired.
A blast of rock music interrupted his thoughts, what in the fuck.

"HEY! We're closed! We...." Nick's jaw dropped open. There was a scantly clad woman dancing on the stage to 'Wild Thing' by The Troggs.

He scanned the whole long length of her. Jesus, he hardened immediately. Gorgeous curves and that white lacy lingerie shit he loved so much.
His mouth went dry.

Veronica. Dancing. Suggestively.

Oh Christ, he watched as she expertly moved those hips, thrusting and arching in such a way that sweat broke out behind his balls.
How did she get in? Must be from his spare keys.

The lyrics seared his self-conscious:

Wild thing...you make my heart sing...
You make everything
Groovy

He wanted her. NOW. It was taking all his control not to leap onto the stage and take her up against the cage.
He shifted, his jeans suddenly tight, the blood roaring to all parts of his body.
He wanted her in the most carnal, base and wild way. Yeah, wild thing.

This...this just solidified the decision he had made anyway. She was everything he wanted in a woman. A slow, sexy smile spread across his face.
He wanted her to be his. Forever. No one else's, ever.
When he and Ronnie first hooked up, she was shy and reticent. A little prudish.
She had come a long way, baby.
Look at her now, flaunting her sex and her curves. he loved it, he loved her. Completely.

He cheered her on with accompanying wolf whistles. And when she bent over he almost lost it. Oh did he have some ideas for THAT position.
He wanted to tear off her bra with his teeth.
Now.

Her hands trailed seductively over her breasts, down to that little triangle of lace between her legs and back up again.
And when the song ended, he applauded enthusiastically. Jesus, if she wasn't his...he'd hire her. But no one was going to see her dance like this ever. No one but him.

He bounded onto the stage and grabbed her non too gently, pulling her against him. He began hungrily nibbling on her neck while he thrust his hardened body next to that flimsy piece of lace.
"See?" He growled. "See what you do to me, what you always do to me. Jesus baby...that dance..."

"You liked it then?" She smiled.

He reached around and grabbed handfuls of her lush ass and pulled her in tight. "Yeah, feel? Hard as a rock, only for you. I loved it. If you danced for me every night like that, I would be a happy man."
Her eyes softened, filled with such love, he thought he would lose it. As in emotionally. She loved him. And it rocked his world. "I'll be right back."

Nick ran into the office, getting something out of his leather coat pocket. It was kismet, karma, all that shit. He bought the ring on his supper break, this very night.
He hadn't planned on doing this for a while yet, but hell...what was he waiting for.
He got down on one knee in front of her.

"Nick...wh...what are you doing?"

Take it baby. Take it all. My heart, my soul, my life. The very breath I breathe. Take me as I am, take me...make me the man I deserve to be. The man you deserve. Complete me. Love me."

Nick snapped open the cover of the blue velvet box, the strobe lights caught the reflection of the rather large diamond winking lovingly at her. It must have cost a fortune! She gasped aloud, it ended on a squeal of utter delight.

Veronica was crying softly. She never saw so much love shining in those golden tiger eyes of his before. They looked...glassy. Moist. Was there tears, in his eyes? Oh God, yes, tears. Nick had tears in his eyes, oh God.
She cleared her throat, the emotion overwhelming her was threatening to close off her voice and her very breath.

"Nick. Oh yes. To everything. I love you so much."

He slipped the ring on her finger, and she jumped into his embrace, the box clattering on the floor at their feet.

They were joined now, ball and chain be damned. He didn't care, he got used to dragging the fucking thing around behind him. He gloried in it. Reveled in it. And he would love her until he died.

Fallon stood and looked around the room she and Joey were preparing. The baby was due end of January. Still a few months away yet.
The papers were signed, sealed, filed away in a dusty lawyers office.
They would be parents.

But even though things were moving along smoothly, Fallon could not help but feel...trepidation. This Erin...should be getting out of prison sometime, wouldn't she? Would she come around? It could be a mess down the road. She wondered now if she was rash in her declaration in front of the whole De Luca family. Doubts. She hated them. Had them before over Joey. Misplaced they were. So were these. Surely.

Joey entered the room and with it, he swept away her doubts. "Hey baby, ready to do some more shopping?"

Fallon smiled. "This child is going to be spoiled rotten!"

"We should talk about names. Any thoughts?"

Fallon thought a minute. "Keiran,if it's a boy?"

"Sorry baby, Liam already snagged that, if Darcy has a boy. We might as well carry on the tradition, Irish first name with an Italian last name, what about your side of the family?"

Fallon laughed. "No way are we naming him after my father. My grandfather's name was Ethan..."

"Ethan Indelli...I like that. And a girl?"

"My aunt's name was Noelle, I always liked that."

Jesus, he loved her. They would be married a year first of December. Hard to believe their quickie 'going to the chapel' marriage lead to this feeling of...permanence. A real solid foundation. Love, respect, friendship, passion, the whole ball of wax.
So they probably wouldn't have kids together, who cares? He didn't.
But, here they were about to be a family. Keiran's child. It felt...good.
"I love you Fallon. I see great thing ahead for our little family. You'll see." He whispered.

He pulled her into his embrace. Never got tired of this, holding her, kissing her and loving her. The physical aspect of their relationship was beyond everything he could have hoped for, just enhanced what they felt. An outlet to show the depths of their mutual feelings.
And as he responded as he always did while in her arms, it seemed...he was taking another 3 hour lunch.

Around 4 p.m, it was quiet as far as hanging out in a bar goes. Jimmy was getting to know all the pubs and bars in a 6 block radius of his place.
He glanced at the bloke at the next table, feck me, he thought he was morose. No doubt a damned woman, only explanation for that hang dog look. and the empties on his table.
Guess he wasn't alone for having his guts kicked out.

Jimmy whistled shrilly through his teeth. "Oi, mate! You sink any lower, you'll be kissing the wood floor, you all right?"

Domingo looked up at the man at the next table. "No, I'm not all right."

"A woman?" Jimmy questioned.

"Yeah. a woman. The best woman and I fucked it up. Let her get away. And I don't think I can ever get her back." Domingo could not believe he was spilling his guts to a complete stranger, but the guy caught him in a funny mood. Hopelessness was surrounding him like a fog. And Bonnie stopping by his place the other night was a stark reminder of what he lost and what he carelessly threw away.

"Bring your drink and come over mate. We can drown our sorrows together. Name's Jimmy Doyle."

With a sigh, Domingo got up and went over to Doyle's table, muttering his name as introduction. Jimmy ordered another round. "Care to tell me what's wrong?"

Domingo took a seat. "I was dating a lovely woman, not very long, but it showed promise. She caught me screwing some other chick."

"Literally mate? In the feckin' act? Ouch. Not too smart. Do you care for this other woman?"

"I thought I did, but no. I don't. Considering we were...involved for close to two years. It was nothing but sex."

Jimmy winced. Sounded familiar. Visions of Pen with her long legs wrapped around his hips floated through his brain, sparking his lust. He shifted uncomfortably in the chair. "Aye, I hear you. You feel like you have been used, and tossed aside." Domingo nodded, taking a pull on his Budweiser.
"And the woman, that showed promise. Tell me about her."

Domingo looked down. "You know, she really isn't a raving beauty but I don't care. Her real beauty comes within. She is wonderful. Classy, sexy. Smart. Passionate. We hardly had a chance. All on me."

"Blimey Domingo, you are carrying a load of guilt there. Forgive yourself man, So you made a big mistake. She'll never forgive you if you don't forgive yourself first."

"And you Jimmy?" Domingo asked.

Jimmy shifted in his seat. The clack of billiard balls the only noise in the place.
"I hardly had a chance either. A woman I picked up in some run down pub of all places. It was all about sex too, I guess. Until she showed up on my doorstep one night."

He closed his eyes. "I thought, we connected that night. But I was wrong. She left town, leaving me some 'sod off' letter. I can't deny it bleedin' hurts. First woman I was with since my wife was killed."

The drinks came and the men talked some more. Jimmy opened up, told Domingo about his wife and two toddler sons being blown to bits in a car bomb by the IRA.

Jesus, he thought he had problems. There was always someone with more to deal with, if only you took the trouble to look.

He listened to Jimmy Doyle. His wife and two young sons. Kind of put things in perspective. And in that moment, he realized he wanted Bonnie in his life. He wasn't going to give up. He didn't deserve her, not by any stretch.
And he and Jimmy? They stayed hours, talking. Agreed to meet again soon.

Neither mentioned Penelope Prescott by name.

Callie exhaled. He was following her again. The brother.
He was living with Brogan now, she knew who he was. He was not hiding, just keeping back far enough not to crowd but close enough to make his presence known.
He was in an expensive topcoat, he looked like the older brother...Lorcan. But more polished. From what she could see under the street lights, his eyes were hard, penetrating.
They suspected her. They judged her.

She continued down the dark street, passing some drunk, wobbling slightly on the sidewalk, mumbling to himself.
She could hear the boots of the brother keeping pace with her, whether she slowed down or sped up.
She may have gone too far. She only wanted to mess up his room a bit...but, she went a little crazy. Smashing, shredding. The dead rat. Found that in the alley where she got the garbage bags.
Brogan Byrne made her angry. He wasn't paying attention to her.

Callie rounded the corner. He was paying attention now but not the way she wanted. He sicced his brother on her.
No one understood how she felt. The intensity. The need. She toyed with the idea of kidnapping Brogan and keeping him with her always until he accepted their joined fate. But how would she pull that off? One doesn't snatch a 6'2 muscular man off the street. But she had her dreams about it...Brogan, tied to her bed. Naked. Her slave. To do with what she would. And she did, everything...in those dreams.
She would make him realize one day that she was the only woman for him. Not that pale looking bitch.
Meanwhile, she had to deal with this.

She turned and looked at the younger brother. He was as tall and good looking as the other two. He could be that Lorcan's twin. Easily.
"I know who you are, you're HIS brother. Did he tell you to follow me? It won't do any good."

Reese was astounded, close up she was quite lovely with that alabaster skin and dark hair and eyes. But from what he could make out in the darkness, those eyes were...disturbed. This woman gave him chills and not the good kind. "We know it was you." He replied simply

She stepped closer. "I am sure I don't know what you mean." she replied in a even, rational voice. Oh, she was good.

"Be warned, Dark Eyes." he was using Brogan's name for this crazy bird. "you won't be able to pull anymore shite, I'll see to it myself. My brother has no interest in you, so you might as well give up the ghost. Stop going to his performances. He will have you barred if you continue to attend. And don't approach him. Stay away. If you know what's good for you."

The woman's intense gaze did not waver, in fact, her eyes darkened if that were possible. Anger flickered briefly.

"You don't intimidate me Reese Byrne. Cross me and you will see why." Her mouth twitched at the corners.

She turned on her heel and walked away. Reese let her go. He crossed his arms. One sick chick. He saw the disturbance in her eyes. If she was pushed, she may do something desperate and far more dangerous than trashing a room.
The coppers said if they could prove it, she could be charged with break and enter and vandalism. Could get 18 months in prison. How to prove it? Because Reese was more convinced than ever that it was her.

He would find a way. No one messed with the Byrne's. It was almost a family motto. A badge of honor. They were a protective clan. Close. He thought briefly of brother Nevan, no one was really close to him. Cold. but, he was still a Byrne. Family.
Just as Brogan was. Aye, he would find a way.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 72

Chapter 74

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SEVENTY-TWO: Tighter, Tighter

2012-01-07T11:07:00.003-06:00

Chapter 72 Tighter, Tighter

Coming home from dinner and pub hopping with his younger brother Reese, Brogan opened the door to his bedroom. What assaulted his senses first was the smell. Something...rotting. Decaying. Garbage. He flicked the light switch.

"Jaysus!" he yelled.

Reese ran into the room, and they both stood with shock registered on their faces. There was barely an empty spot on the floor.
Two bags of rotting garbage had been spilled all over the room and on the bed. His night tables were smashed as if someone took an axe to them. All his clothes in shreds. The strings cut on his Rickenbacker.
But what turned him sick, his beloved acoustic bass that he brought with him from Ireland was smashed into kindling. Books were ripped. Records broken as if thrown against the wall in a rage.
But it was the dead rat on his bed with its throat slit that sent chills down his spine the most.

"Feckin' hell, Brogan." Reese whispered is disbelief. He had never seen the like. "How did they get in? The door was locked." Brogan went to move further into the room. "No, don't touch anything, I am going to ring the coppers. We have to file a report. This is...criminal."

Brogan looked over on the bed. A rat. Dead for days, stiff and rotting with its throat slit. What kind of feckin' message was that?

"Do you have any idea?" Reese asked.

He did. He couldn't believe a woman was responsible for all this, how did she drag two large bags of garbage up here? And tools, she literally smashed his furniture and his bass guitar was in pieces. The guitar his da bought him for his 13th birthday. His da went without his weekly pub visits to save up for the guitar. Took two months. That guitar was precious to him and was his friend. Now it was destroyed. Feckin' hell.

Someone must have seen her enter. Reese was right, call the cops.

He began to get angry. "It's her, Dark Eyes, I know it." he looked down at the cut-up photographs at his feet. Family photos that meant a lot to him, brought them with him from Ireland. Bloody bitch.

"I am sorry brother, I said you were daft and paranoid. I was wrong. This is serious. I am going to call the coppers now, don't touch anything." Reese reiterated.

Twenty minutes later and Bonnie and Tristan took the call. Bonnie wrote up their statements while Tristan checked the door. Tristan surmised she picked the lock, wasn't hard to do it wasn't the best of locks anyway. Tristan suggested a deadbolt and new locks right away.

"We called the forensic team and they are on there way over but I am guessing they won't find any prints. I am sorry there is not much we can do without any evidence." Bonnie explained.

Brogan was livid. He knew the cops would be useless. They always were.

Bonnie saw the frustrated anger on the man's face. "Listen, I can turn this case over to the detectives. From what you told me about this woman, there may be enough to make inquires. I will go contact them now."

"Aye. Thank you officer." Brogan gritted between his clenched teeth. He tried not to take is anger out on this woman cop, she was doing her best.

He crouched down, surveying the damage. His life what little life he had built since he got here was smashed and in tatters.
He could hear Officer Naugle filling in Reese on the details in the background.
Without proof, what could the coppers do? Nothing. He almost wished Nevan was here. Dangerous, his brother. He would take things in hand.
But he had Reese. Almost as good.
A raw anger burned in his soul as he looked at the splintered wood that was his beloved bass. She would pay.

Reese entered the room. "Forensics is here and some detectives are on their way over."

"Aye." Brogan mused. "Bloody lot of good that will do. I think Reese we will have to close ranks as it were."

Reese smiled. "Oh aye? What do you have in mind?"

"We will play Dark Eyes' game. Turn the tables. See how she likes it. No one fecks with the Byrnes." Brogan smiled slyly. Dark Eyes made a big mistake here.

It took over a week but Jimmy Doyle found Pen Prescott. He was surprised she was an Assistant D.A., but even more surprised to find out when he inquired at the office that she had handed in her notice a few weeks ago. He managed to charm the receptionist out of giving up Pen's address. A downtown Victorian set of flats, The Glavon Arms. He rang the bell and a man's voice over the intercom stated "Miss Prescott was not at home." Obviously not a husband the voice was too formal, plus he referred to her as 'Miss'.
So he waited.

And what would he say exactly? She obviously came from money if she had a bleedin' doorman or butler or whatever the feck. By the list off addresses in the front foyer, looks as though she had the entire top floor.

Sex, no matter how much it affected a person did not translate into a meaningful relationship. He knew that. And regardless of their shared experience that ran the gambit from achingly tender to wildly animalistic, it did not mean they were destined to be together. He was a realist. Dreaming was for those daft beggars who were never happy with what they had. He was happy...once.
No feckin' reason why he couldn't be happy again. Why not he and the rich princess?

Penelope parked her Mustang in the underground parking. Instead of taking the elevator up to her penthouse, she walked around the corner to the front door. When she caught a glimpse of long, lean Jimmy Doyle propped against the wall, she wished she had taken the elevator.
Her insides dipped and rolled, as they had before when she was near him or from just from looking at him.

He saw her, she couldn't back track now. He walked toward her, his face lit up in a devastating smile that made him look years younger, how old was he anyway?

Jimmy tried to keep his face neutral. Usually he was good at shuttering his emotions and responses but he knew his face was giving far too much away here. "Hello Pen." At least he kept his voice steady considering his guts were on a roller coaster.

She ached to touch that scarred, stubbled cheek. Instead she put her hands behind her back. Why, why did he track her down? And how did he?

"Jimmy Doyle, never expected to see you again." She said in a emotionless tone.

"You remember my name, that's a start."

How could she not? How many times did she cry out his name that night back in July? Here stood the father of her-one of her babies. Dear god. Tell him-a voice hissed in her ear. "I thought we agreed we would not see each other again?"

Jimmy laughed shortly. "You agreed pet, not I."

"You let me walk out of your place. You never said a word or never even looked at me." She tried to keep the hurt out of her voice but it was there.

Jimmy stepped in close and cupped her face gently with his hands. "Aw, pet. What can I say? I was stunned by what we shared. And we did share something. You felt it. Same as I."

Oh God. His touch, his words. Shared something? If only he knew. If only he knew how hard it had been to stay away from him, now more than ever. She couldn't look into those glorious blue-gray eyes of his, it was breaking her heart what little piece was left.

She turned away. The pain. She tried to get her legs to move forward but before she did, he clasped her about the waist and pulled her back against him. Searing, fluttering flame. So being away from him the last couple of months did nothing to extinguish it. And the fact his hands were so close...to where his child was made her want to weep.

He wasn't the only one who did some digging. Before she quit she inquired about Jimmy Doyle. Irish ex-pat, political activist, was De Luca's driver the last few weeks of the man's life. Now working at some sleazy bar. Not for her, not in any way.

"Talk to me, Pen." That honey over gravel voice turned her insides to mush. She couldn't deal with this...with him. Not now.

She finally pulled away from him. "I can't talk right now, Doyle. Come back Sunday night. 8 p.m., we will talk then." Jimmy-she gulped deeply and quickened her pace to the door.

Jimmy watched her go. The pain not only in his suddenly tighter crotch area but his heart as well.

He stood alone for some time, absently kicking a rock between his boots. The hiss of the street lamps the only noise he could really hear. It was very quiet, one of those early October evenings where one could feel the air change, a crispness. Autumn was coming.
So was the winter of his discontent. Aye, he was not stupid he did a lot of reading, still did. Was always improving his mind.

He looked up at the top floor. He was tempted to give in to the basest animal part of him kick her door in, claim her for his. But for all outward appearances and maybe past memories to the contrary, he was not an animal.

Aye, he would come back Sunday night, and be told he was nothing but dirt under her Italian leather boots. Unworthy. And it would hurt like feckin' hell.
Because Christ on a cross, he was already half in love with her.

Out on patrol later that same night, Bonnie and Tristan stopped for coffee and doughnuts at one of their favorite haunts, The Copper Pot Coffee Shop. They preferred the baked goods at Titus', but they weren't open until midnight like this place.

Of course they had to wait for a fresh pot, so Bonnie ordered a couple of sugar doughnuts for Tristan, she was taking a pass tonight. Dean Martin played softly in the background over a scratchy wall speaker and the odor of freshly ground coffee beans filled the small shop.
Bonnie tried not to look at the chocolate cake.

She opened one of the 6 letters from Domingo that still sat on her dresser. She read part of it. The words etched in her brain.

"I am not worthy of your attention, much less your affection. But know that you are on my mind the moment I open my eyes every morning, (in my bed, alone) and when I close them at night. If I can't have you, I'd rather be alone. And I have been. More alone than I have been in my life."

Yes, he knew how to get to her and how to stoke her sympathies for him. But she knew he wasn't lying. She knew the depths of the loneliness he felt. But still her pride hurt. And every time she closed HER eyes, she saw that...that woman on top of him riding him like a wild stallion. And he was enjoying it. Her lip curled. Oh damn, what did Tristan want in his coffee? Every time was different!

She headed out the door but froze when she heard Tristan talking with some other man in the alley.
She inched closer to the edge of the brick building, her instincts telling her not to reveal herself. When she heard the conversation, she was glad she didn't.

"...I told O'Shaunessey, not to approach me at all nor send his toadies. And especially while I am on the job. Jesus! My partner is inside and could come out any minute!" Tristan snapped.

"Tough shit." The man replied. "Darragh wants to know if the next shipment is ready. The deadline is Sunday. If you can't deliver we'll find someone who will. You have been late before. He won't tolerate a second time. Spending too much time with that 'girlfriend' of yours."

"Leave my fucking personal life out of this and what do you know about it?" Tristan hissed.

"Plenty. You are being watched, O'Shaunessey likes to know what his assets are up to. And you are up to a lot, you naughty boy." The man snickered.

"Tell O'Shaunessey the shipment will be on time. And tell him if he sends any of you bastards to approach me ever again anywhere they will find you or whoever face down in the bay. Fucking fish bait. I won't have this jeopardized. I call the shots, I'm taking all the risk. I say when we make contact. Tell him that or I will be taking MY business elsewhere."

"Jesus, calm down, Okay, I'll tell him. He's worried about the LSD, he heard there is a shortage..."

"Christ, he's an old woman! Tell him I have plenty."

Oh God. Shipment. O'Shaunessey. LSD. She did hear this right? She started inching back toward the door of the coffee shop. Keep calm, she had to act like she heard nothing.

Tristan? She was stunned. The Perfect Rookie. Top of his class. He seemed...nice. She liked him. Oh God, what to do? Go to Captain Leary? With what, hearsay? And she knew how cops felt about snitches within the dept. She would be branded her whole career. A pariah. Shunned. Stupid but it was true.
She had to talk to someone.
Domingo.

Bonnie pulled herself together and got the coffee and doughnuts. By the time she came out, Tristan was back in the squad car.

She sat on her hands to keep them from shaking. Calm. Professional. Don't fall to pieces.
"Hey, have you seen the M*A*S*H movie yet? It's great. Who knew war could be funny? I went with a friend." Tristan stated.

Friend...his girlfriend? The one helping him with his shipments? She cleared her throat. "No, but I heard it was good."

"Are you all right, your voice sounds weird." Tristan spoke above the police chatter.

She cleared her throat. "I think I'm coming down with a cold, maybe the hot coffee will help."

The police dispatch broke into her mid-sentence. "Car 125, see the man, 34 Brinley, possible break and enter..."

Bonnie quickly grabbed the mike. "That's us. I'll call it in." Thank God. She replied to the call and Tristan flicked on the lights and sped toward Brinley 4 blocks away.

Men. Trust. Why was it so damned hard for her to find decent men to trust? Even on the job? She was surrrounded by liars at every turn.

Across town a couple of nights later, Mike Leary and Myrna McKenzie were taking a walk through the park. They had a nice steak dinner at the Riviera and a relaxing, quiet talk over a bottle of red wine. Mike had not spoken to anyone about so much outside of Liam. Maybe he was thinking, he poured out too much of his guts on the table. But Myrna was easy to talk to, no doubt because of her profession.
He liked the fact she took his arm as they walked. She was a good listener and a calming presence.

"Myrna, I have been hogging the conversation for close to two hours. I guess you can tell I don't open up much. My best friend Liam has been after me to go into therapy, I think this proves I need to talk to someone."

"I think Liam De Luca is right." She saw Mike glance at her. "I know all about him from Gregory. Or Gregory's version of him."

"I know Greg hates him. I am hoping he will get past it. Liam and I are tight. Tighter than when we were kids. The brother I never had. But enough. I want to know about you Myrna. Tell me something I don't know."

Myrna looked up at the devastatingly handsome man she clung to, almost desperately. Solid muscle under the wool. Like an oak tree just as Gregory said. Moonlight and shadow accentuated the finely chiseled cheekbones no man should possess.

"You talk of still being deeply in love with your wife, Irenie. Well I am deeply in love with a man I can never have, a man that threw me aside to follow a path I can not travel down. He might as well be dead." She inhaled sharply. "Sorry. That was rather blunt."

Mike looked over at her, his jaw hard set. "I know she's dead. I accept it. I am just not ready to let go."

"Yes." Myrna whispered. "Let go. Guess I'm not ready to let go either."

"We grew up together, teenage sweethearts. Lots of romantic, childish dreams. I thought we loved each other, We had our lives planned out. Then he entered the priesthood. Turned his back on what we had, rejected me. For something I don't understand. I was devastated. Hurt beyond anything I could feel. I am 26 and feel like I am trapped in some dark room with no exit. When will it end?"

Mike didn't speak right away. It was exactly as he felt. To love someone who was gone or would not or could not return your love, was there anything worse? He led her over to a nearby park bench.

"I guess it ends when we find someone else to love and they love us in return. At least that is what I have seen with Liam. He was a mess after Maggie was killed. It took a few years but he found Darcy. Never seen a man more happy. He was lucky. We can only hope that maybe, someday, we will be as lucky as Liam." Mike's rough as sandpaper voice was oddly soothing to her.

Find someone to love. Right. She had no luck so far. Of course she hadn't really looked. Too busy with her schooling and carrying that damned torch for Duncan everywhere she went. She felt tears burn at the back of her eyes.
Duncan might as well be as dead as Irenie.

She couldn't stop the tears. It had been so long since she shed any. She gulped deeply hoping it wouldn't turn into hiccups. Or snot running out of her nose, always attractive when one went into hysterics.

Mike moved closer to her on the bench, his muscular arm curled around her waist as he drew her closer. "I take it, it's been a long time since you had this reaction."

She merely nodded and wiped some wayward tears away. "Yes. I am not one for crying-much."

"Neither am I. But I do it. Maybe we could both cry. Damn, I forgot the Kleenex in the car."

Myrna laughed. "Thanks, I'm better now. I really haven't spoke to anyone about this before. I am a fine one to preach to my patients. Yet I keep things bottled up inside myself."

Mike raised his arm and put it around her shoulder. "Friends should be able to tell each other just about anything." He whispered.

'Is that what we are friends?"

"Yes Myrna. We are."

They sat together on the bench, silent for the most part. When they did talk it was in low, intimate tones.

Finally Mike stood, bringing Myrna to her feet. He took her hand and kissed it. It was as far as he was able to go, an arm around that soft femininity, a kiss of the hand. He was not ready to move any further. But the fact he managed this much and opened his heart enough to the possibility of friendship with a beautiful woman was more than he thought he was capable of even just a few months ago.

Myrna felt those full lips on her hand. Oh my. It sent a quick roar of heat up her arm. It had more of an impact on her than her kiss with Gregory. She winced inwardly. God, I had my tongue in his son's mouth.
The heat dissipated as he raised his head and looked at her, his blue eyes were dark and glittering from the reflection of the garden lights.

He began to walk toward his car, taking her hand in his.
He squeezed it lightly. His hand was large, warm, welcoming and masculine, like the man himself.

Myrna knew instinctively, professionally, that neither were ready for anything more than friendship. But she knew they had both taken a huge step here. Back into life. Living. Which was more than work, eating and breathing.
Life.

Over on the west side, Bonnie Naugle stood outside Domingo's apartment. The light was on, he was home she assumed.
She remembered the last time she was here and it sent her insides lurching precariously to the edge.
She was only here because she had no where else to turn. That she was going to put her trust in an untrustworthy man, scared her shitless.

She stood before the door, she knew what would happen, she would ring the bell, he would swagger downstairs and look at her with that superior, smug look of his.
Triumphant that she had come crawling back to him.
Well, she would deflate him quick.
This was business and nothing more. Or so she told herself.
She reached up and rang the buzzer.

The door opened. He stood in pajama pants, barefoot and bare-chested. His hair tousled and slightly damp just fresh from the shower.

He looked surprised initially, but hid it quickly. "Bonnie..."

He leaned causally against the wall but she could see the muscles on his torso clenching.

She didn't know what to say. He was not reacting the way she thought he would. He looked...hopeful. His eyes wide and expectant.
She could not stop her eyes from scanning his bare chest and arms. Like he was sculpted in marble. She felt the muscle under his clothes when they embraced before but this-to see him in all his raw male glory took her breath away, she couldn't speak.

He stepped outside suddenly, causing her to back up a few steps. She gasped aloud when he pulled her slowly and gently toward him. As soon as her breasts brushed by that chest, she felt woozy and overcome.
His long fingers curled slowly around her arms. It was a gentle possession, his face was far from smug and arrogant.
She was floored.

He laid her head on his broad shoulder. He smelled of fresh soap, clean water and virile male. A scent she grew to love. A scent, decidedly Domingo. She smiled slightly. He could be a fragrance."Decidedly Domingo" cologne.
His hand trailed up her back and rested on the nape of her neck, rubbing gently.

Domingo closed his eyes and pulled her tighter next to him. Oh Jesus, the feel of her crushed next to him. The scent of her gorgeous, golden hair. Her heart beating as fast as his.

"You came to me." His voice was full of emotion and wonder and vulnerability. "You came to me baby..."

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 71

Chapter 73

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SEVENTY-ONE: Hey Big Brother

2012-01-06T11:56:00.004-06:00

Chapter 71 Hey Big Brother

"Meet Larry. Larry say hello to the gentlemen. Larry can snap a man's femur with little effort. Would you like him to demonstrate?" Vinnie snarled.

The men shook their heads vehemently as Larry waved at them like a simpleton.

"You know who I am? Good. The Irish mick is mine, you are not to touch him. Get the word around that the Celtic mancunny is my property. Got it?"

"Yes Mr. De Luca." Carlos whispered.

"Get out."

The men literally ran out of the shower room.

"Jaysus, I feel like puking." Lorcan grossed. His face twisted in disgust.

"Showering alone? Are you fucking stupid?" Vinnie snapped.

"I had permission. That guard Wilson, he said he was staying nearby. Guess he didn't."

Vinnie snorted. "You can't trust the screws. I thought you had more street smarts." Vinnie grabbed a nearby towel and tossed it to Lorcan. "Cover up for Christ's sake, You go showing THAT off, you'll have all these bastards pushing you against a wall."

Lorcan wrapped the towel around his waist and walked over to the sink. Lorcan turned on the taps. "Celtic mancunny? So am I your girlfriend now?" Lorcan laughed sharply. Jaysus, he hoped not. He didn't think Vinnie swung that way but men in prison did all sorts.

"Remember I have been in this prison before. I know how things work. I have a reputation."

Lorcan smiled sardonically. "Oh Aye?"

The water was scalding hot. Lorcan felt as if he would never get clean. He rubbed the soap in his hands scrubbing as vigorously as if he were getting ready to do surgery.

"That's right." Vinnie continued. "If I wanted you for my girlfriend, you would have been already."

Lorcan scrubbed faster.

Finally he turned off the taps and shook the excess water off his hands.
"So why did you stop the imminent rape? I thought there was no love lost between us, unless Vinnie you love me more than you can say." Why he was taunting this man, he had no idea. Still shaken over what almost happened, he supposed.

"I never liked you, Byrne. I still don't. You fucking Irish. Shiftless, useless and stupid to boot. Too bad the English didn't wipe you paddy bastards off the face of the earth hundreds of years ago when they had the chance."

"You guinea wop shite." Lorcan snarled. "It must gall you that your kids and grand-kids have Irish blood in their veins. If you feel that way, why did you marry one?"

Vinnie looked off. "Because I loved her." he said softly. More gruffly he said, "Listen, once word gets around you're mine, you will be left alone. Mob bosses, even ex ones have a lot of pull in prison. The guards will even treat you better. I will see about Wilson and why he didn't stay outside the door, leave it with me. Also, I expect you to join me for dinner once a week to keep up the pretense. I get steaks delivered every Friday."

Lorcan shook his head in disbelief. "Why? Why are you doing this?"

"For Keiran. And his son, the son you are going to raise. My grandson. You married Julie I hear. I want to keep you safe so the boy will have a father. Simple as that. You have anymore problems, you come to me. Prisoners or guards. And If I walk up to you in the chow hall and touch your cheek for all to see, you will take it. It will let everyone know your my property. Understand?"

Lorcan did. "Aye then. For Keiran. If I had known, I would have tried to protect him..."

Vinnie nodded. "I know. Too late now for all of us. Dinner Friday night. Be there The guards will let you come."

Vinnie turned and walked out with Larry lumbering right on his heels.

Lorcan slumped against the wall, the tile cold as ice on his damp back. Jaysus, Vinnie De Luca, his guardian angel? Looks like. He'd take it. He didn't relish the thought of having to fight off those sick feckers for 3 years.
Steaks. Wonder what other privileges Vinnie got? Unbelievable.
He shuddered again as he thought how close...bloody hell.

Tristan O'Shea was a man who lived for his own pleasures. He became a cop because like most things he attempted, he was good at it. Excelled even. Top of the graduating class at the Academy. Rookies usually walked the beat a few years before getting a squad car, not him. And Bonnie Naugle his partner, he had no problem with her.
As long as she stayed out of his business.

And his business, his real business was drugs, more specifically pills. He excelled at that too.
Quaalude's were particularly popular with the college crowd and Kane took care of that corner of the business.
Tristan also used the connections through Kane and his association with Jimmy Doyle and some smaller gangs to distribute LSD. But the real meat was in amphetamines. Tristan had a guy who manufactured these pills. He was good, took half of what he made but what was left Tristan sold through his various connections. Like a pyramid scheme with him at the top, the other players not knowing who was really in charge. Just the way Tristan wanted it.

He watched as Kane Ryan came out of the bathroom and sat cross legged at his feet.

Now this was a puzzle. He suspected he was Bi for a while. Went to a hooker just last week to make sure he still could get hard and perform for women. No problem there. So why Kane? At first he told himself it was almost in payment for the partnership of the pills. Kane swears he never been with a man before. Neither had Tristan.
But it seemed to come naturally to both of them. Revelation really.

"Kane, will you stop worrying? I can hear your brain whirring." Tristan sighed.

"I can't help it. This could blow apart anytime..."

"What, you mean, us?" Tristan laughed.

Kane smiled but it was a shaky smile. He was talking about the pill dealing actually. But it could apply to them. What future did they have? Really? It was a physical passing fancy.
So why did his heart ache at the thought of Tristan leaving him. And he would he felt it deep in his gut.

"Come up here." Tristan growled.

"You're beautiful." Tristan whispered. He wasn't lying. The man had the most gorgeous skin and long lashes, and his smile.

Kane laughed, a deep rumble of appreciation.

"I mean it." Tristan said, his eyes not leaving him. Oh Christ, he wasn't falling for him was he? He can't. It would fuck everything up. On so many levels.

The look between them became heated, searing. Tristan ever the aggressor, kissed him deeply. His heart lurching with Kane's every touch.
Falling for him, hell. He was more than half way there already. Deny it all he wanted, the truth was in this kiss. They way they held each other. They way they loved each other. Love.
Oh...Shit.

Jimmy Doyle had been at The Playpen for a couple of months now, he and Nick Moretti had got along fine. Parking his motorcycle in the trailer park parking lot, he walked around the corner toward his place. He supposed with the money he was making plus the pill sideline he could move to a better place. But Jimmy was not dumb. He didn't want to attract attention in any way. So he bought a leather couch. A few pictures for the wall. A better mattress. Some 100% cotton sheets. A better cut of roast beef. The good Irish Whiskey. A few comforts, nothing more.

Next on his list, a better class of woman. Yes, Penelope Prescott. So much for thinking they had made some sort of connection, he thought she would have been back by now. It had been well over two months and not a word. He didn't know where she lived or anything about her. He could find out. He was good at that, tracking people down. He found Ronan McCarthy. Eventually.

And how would she feel about some beat-up mick showing up at her door? She could be married for all he knew.
Aye, he said let her come to him. But he wanted to know. What was that between them, nothing at all? It meant something to him.

Jimmy took one of those frozen dinners and put it in the oven. His thoughts drifted to Lily. He missed her still. They had been together since they were 17. Married since they were 19. Had the first baby when they were 21. People would no doubt be shocked to find out he just turned 25. He was often mistaken for someone 10 years older. Or more. He had done a lot of living, loving and suffered loss the last few years and aye, revenge. Murder. It all showed on his face. All of it. Picture of Dorian feckin' Gray.

Maybe he wasn't the sort of man for Penelope Prescott. She had a certain elegance for all her outward slut perception. He held her in his arms. He kissed her into oblivion. He never thought he would find that again. Was it real? Or was he desperate to recreate it? He had to know.
He would start tracking her down tomorrow.

"Brogan! I didn't think you knew where I lived!" Casey greeted him.

"Don't forget I have access to the employee files, love." He winked. "Can we talk? Is your brother Kane home, we can go somewhere..."

"No, he stayed over with a friend or so he tells me. I think he has a girlfriend. But he denies it. Come inside, it's Sunday did you have breakfast? I can make you some eggs."

"Thank you but no. Reese is a man of many talents. I had a fry up already." He saw Casey's puzzled look. "Full English breakfast, eggs sausage, tomato, black pudding, all fried."

Her pert little nose wrinkled at the mention of black pudding. Jaysus, she was gorgeous. He had put off this talk long enough. She was staring at him like he was a delicious English breakfast. His smile grew broader. Seeing the interest in her eyes puffed up his male ego and his expectations. "Going to invite me in, love?"

Her eyes blinked. "Right, sorry! Of course, come in."

They both sat quietly for a few moments. Where to start? Might as well come out with it. "Casey, that first night I took you to the Flamingo. A woman came in the place. Dark hair and eyes. What did she say to you? Because you seemed to withdraw a bit after that."

Casey was quiet for a moment. "Do you know her?"

"No, not really. I know her name is Callie Thorne, she told me enough. I just refer to her as Dark Eyes. She was at my very first performance when I was at the Beatnik. She has been to every performance since."

"Every...performance? Why?"

"I wish I knew, love. It's bloody creepy. No matter the day or night or where it is. She's there. I could have sworn I saw her in New York when I was there for my audition but it's not possible. She's like some phantom. She keeps trying to talk to me, babblin' on about fate. I tried to be polite at first but lately...I thought I saw her outside my flat as well. Reese tells me I'm daft, paranoid. But there it is."

"I don't think you are paranoid. I will tell you what she said, the words have been seared into my brain for the last two months. I am sorry I believed her, even if it was only just a little."

She told him. The whole conversation. He had to admit, hearing her say the word 'cock', had his own growing a bit hard. He could not believe this. That dark eyed bitch told Casey that he and she...Jaysus. Casey apologized again stating she only half-believed it. But the woman was so convincing. And she felt she didn't know Brogan enough to repeat such a conversation and maybe she was a little overwhelmed. And a bit jealous. And hurt.

Casey stopped talking. Brogan's insides began to bubble with rage. This was...what? He wasn't even famous for shite's sake and already he had some crazed fan? How did Dark Eyes know to talk to Casey in the first place unless she HAD been following him around, watching his every move. It WAS her outside his flat and in New York. What does he do, go to the coppers? They wouldn't believe him. Too bad Lorcan was unavailable. Reese. Little brother could be resilient. Too bad brother Nevan wasn't here. He had the muscle and he was dangerous. No, Reese would do in a pinch. He was smart as shite too. And could be devious like all the Byrne's.

He turned to face Casey. "I am sorry you were subjected to that. I have never touched the deluded woman. Maybe only spoke to her a couple of times. I am not interested in her at all. How can I keep her away from me? She's not breaking the law."

"I am sorry Brogan. Maybe we should go to the police, at least make them aware." Brogan thought about it, she was making sense."And, what about us? That same night you said you wanted to talk. Can we talk now?" Casey asked.

Right. "I was going to ask that night if maybe we could date. But now with the contract, I will be in New York a lot. You might not want to tie yourself to an absent boyfriend."

"Boyfriend? Really Brogan?" She whispered.

He slumped forward, resting his arms on his thighs. "Aye. I could be gone weeks at a time. That's why Lorcan and I brought Reese over. I will help when I am back. But I wouldn't ask...We don't know each other well enough...to maybe... Oh hell." He grew silent.

"You mean me go with you to New York?"

He nodded.

"That is a lovely thought. Something we maybe can plan further down the road. But I have a life here Brogan. My brother needs me, I need that job. I have responsibilities. But I will be here when you return. When do you have to go back?"

"First of November." He mumbled.

Casey sat herself in his lap. Her arm went around those broad shoulders. "That gives us over 6 weeks of getting to know each other better."

Brogan smiled. "Aye, it does at that. We can start today. How about a drive to Easton Beach? It's still warm enough for a picnic, we'll get some of that deep fried chicken, The Kentucky stuff. It's feckin' delicious. We'll get some wine. Watch the sun go down. Maybe go for a moonlight swim."

Oh. She could get used to this. Look at that smile. It was adorable. She saw it so rarely. He sounded like a little boy. "Brogan, that sounds wonderful. Let's do it."

He hugged her tight. She felt so feckin' good. Soft, feminine but strong. He knew her spine was made of steel, he admired her for it. He was glad she told him everything. He would give his left arm to hear her say the word 'cock' again. Down boy, she no doubt could feel it he was hard as granite nestled between that lush arse of hers. Moonlight swim, wonder if they could go skinny dipping?

She moved slightly on his lap causing him to bite back a moan.

"Kiss me." she whispered in his ear.

Bloody hell. He did. He pulled her tighter onto his aching groin. She smiled beneath his kiss. Oh she felt him alright.
He deepened it, licking the corner of her mouth, making an invitation he had been waiting a couple of months to make. Let me in, Casey...before I feckin' die in your embrace.

She did. And as soon as his tongue met hers, he found himself on top of her and moving against her causing a friction that had them both moaning quite loudly. Hope to hell her brother doesn't walk in.
It was better than he had hoped. After Tarrah, he didn't think he would feel much of anything. But he was feeling it now. Bloody hell, they had to stop or he would tup her right here on her sofa.

Callie Thorne could not believe it. What changed? They had not really been near each other these last two months except at work, she knew. She followed them. Both. At different times. Never seen them kiss until today. And this wasn't some innocent kiss. Her gaze went to Brogan's crotch, his arousal was apparent.
Her insides flamed. How DARE he? That was hers. All of him...was hers. Enough of this, time to get serious.

Meetings on a Sunday were not Myrna's usual thing but she knew Captain Mike Leary was a busy man, so she grabbed meetings with him when she could. She had him here to talk about Greg's future. Lord, the man was an imposing specimen. easy to see where Greg got the looks. Carbon copy. Even though they had only met a few times she felt she knew him from things Greg had told her in therapy.

"Captain Leary, I am glad you could make it."

Mike was feeling melancholy today. Sundays were hard it was the one day he and Irenie took to be together and with Dylan and the rest of the family. His favorite day of the week or it had been. His gaze moved over Myrna MacKenzie's face. She was quite beautiful. He always admired beauty. Not just the outer but what shone from within. Myrna had it.

"Call me Mike, please."

'All right, you must call me Myrna then, please take a seat, Cap..I mean Mike."

"Dr. Watts feels Gregory should start the program here on an outpatient basis. He feels and I concur it is time for Gregory to get back into the business of living. But Gregory is very undecided what he wants to do and where he wants to live. Have you given any thought about him moving back home with you and the rest of the family?"

Mike exhaled. He had thought of nothing else for months. "To be honest, I'm not sure I am ready to deal with Greg's many..." he didn't want to say problems, "Concerns."

"I failed him. It should have been me not my step-son Joey who broke through to him, encouraged him to go out more and interact. When he took your car, it was obviously a cry for help. I failed him on every level."

Myrna could see the anguish on Mike Leary's face. "Mike, after what happened your wife being killed so brutally and all the other responsibilities you have, you were in no frame of mind to help Gregory. You know that. Maybe you still aren't. You can't do it all. No one can. Not even you. Gregory mentioned that Devlin McGrath offered a small house, rent free. I think we should encourage Gregory to take it. It's not far from here."

Mike sighed. "Alone? Is he ready for that?"

"He will still be coming here on an outpatient basis, plus I will be making visits to his place twice weekly to see how he is faring. Also just a suggestion, we can hire someone like a caregiver, cook him a few meals and assist in housework. Ease him back into responsibilities and give him some time to decide what he wants to do with the rest of his life."

"Has he ever spoken, about...what was done to him?" Mike whispered.

"No. Until he does, he can never really move forward. I am determined. In therapy I will keep at it." Myrna smiled reassuringly.

Mike stood to leave and walked toward the door. He stopped.
He turned and came back to stand before her desk, his arms crossed. "Myrna, why don't we discuss this more over dinner? Some night this week?"

Liam's words went through his brain. 'What harm can dinner be?' He was right. Greg wasn't the only one who had to start living. And a dinner with a lovely lady was harmless. Companionship. Company. Dinner.

Dinner with Mike Leary. Gregory's father. He was what, maybe 14 years older but what did that matter? It was only dinner. She had to move on from Duncan. He made his choice. And she was tired of pining away for a priest.

She had to get out into the world and live. Take her own damned advice. Truth of it was, she liked Mike Leary, Greg said his father had a short temper, could be stubborn but was honorable and loyal to a fault. Strong and resilient like a damned oak tree. And the man was stunning to look at. Staring at that golden handsomeness across a plate of spaghetti would not be a hardship.
Go....a voice insisted. Do it.

"I would like that Mike, just name the day. I am free most evenings."

A small smile curved about Mike's face. For some strange reason a flicker of flame began a slow burn in his guts. A very slow burn. It was dinner. He really did not want anything else. From anyone. He was just pleased he was making this small step. Besides, he really did want to talk more about Greg and maybe himself. Maybe she could recommend someone for therapy. Liam suggested it a few times, said it helped him. He didn't go anymore, he didn't need it.
But Mike knew-he did. The loss, the ache was as fresh as it had been 8 months ago. It haunted his dreams, fueled his nightmares.
Time to try and move forward.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 70

Chapter 72

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SEVENTY: Roundabout

2012-01-06T11:33:00.003-06:00

Chapter 70 Roundabout

"Greg, you have made great strides these last couple of months," Dr Rod Watts said. "You have managed to gain close to 20 pounds and improve your mobility and strength. I would say the only thing left is your mental health and your state of mind. Tell me, do you feel ready to go back out there and start to live your life?"

Greg wasn't sure. He still did not know what he wanted to do. Going back to college was discussed. Just pick up where he left off. Like he never left, or was never captured and tortured. A lot of Vietnam vets became cops. What would his father say if he considered that? Could he carry a gun? Deal with that kind of stress? Not now he couldn't, he knew that much. But it was something to consider further down the road. And live? Where? His father offered he live with him, Donna and Dylan but he needed time alone. The house Devlin offered was looking better all the time.

Greg closed his eyes. "I don't know Doc. I have been here for months but it only feels like I have made baby steps only. I'm fucking scared."

"But you have moved forward Greg, that's the main thing. We can continue your treatment, counseling and exercise if you like on an outpatient basis. I think it is time. Will you go to your father's home?" Rod inquired.

"Seems to me Dr. Watts, you are giving me the bum's rush. Need the bed?" Greg asked sarcastically.

Rod didn't take offense. Greg's sarcastic tone was well known throughout the clinic. It was a form of protection to Greg, his shield.

Rod chuckled. "No, we don't need the bed but you need to move on Greg. I think we should start working toward that goal. Think about what you want, where you want to go and we'll discuss it again in two weeks time."

Shana was on her way to meet Greg Leary. They were going to go to a nearby coffee shop. He didn't seem to want to go any further than a couple of blocks from the Clinic. Nor did he want to go any further with her, they were friends. Guess she would have to be happy with that.
She would not push him as he stated right up front he was not ready for any kind of relationship, he was even dubious they could be friends.
But they were.

She liked the extra weight on him, she remembered in high school how muscular he was, no wonder all the girls drooled after him. Star quarterback, smart, handsome, he had everything going for him. Got a scholarship then he left town to go to college. Left a lot of teenage girls crying in their pillows over the loss, herself included.
Now here she was, alone with him.
And they were friends.

He smiled. He was doing that a lot more lately. The frown lines in his forehead were not as pronounced, neither were the dark circles under his lovely eyes. He admitted he was sleeping a bit better and eating better.

He touched her arm briefly. It was all she could do not to react to the heat, her skin boiled and so did her blood. Just from his touch.

"Ready to go to the Kool Bean?" he asked.

"Yes Greg."

Friends. It would have to be enough. For now.

Sully leaned on the crib looking down at the infant squirming and cooing on top of the yellow and white baby blanket.
Killian McCarthy.
Feck me.
The baby developed some complications and wasn't released until 10 days ago, spent the whole summer in the hospital. It gave he and Sloane time to get things ready. Sloane herself only just moved in.

Ronan. He could see it, the same dead, feckin' eyes. Wisps of dark hair hugged his head. Sully really did not see anything of Brianna in this wee one, unless he sprouted freckles as he got older.
He really felt no warmth toward this boyo. He wondered if he ever would. For Sloane's sake, he supposed he should make an effort.

Sloane. What to do there. He took the spare room these last 10 nights, he did not want her to feel pressured to share his bed. No, they had not made love yet. He wasn't sure why. Over his recovery from the fall this summer, they spent a lot of time together. But they never spoke of taking their relationship to the next level.
Now, it was time.

He walked toward the bedroom, the bedroom he wanted them to share. He loved her, he told her so many times these last couple of months. But besides intense kissing, he didn't take it further. Was he that feckin' afraid to give himself totally again? Was he that hurt and that damaged from Brianna? Apparently so.
Sloane was his future. He loved her. She had been bloody patient with him.

They would marry someday, he knew that. One thing he would not do is adopt the wee one. Be damned if Ronan's kiddie was having his last name. He was staying a McCarthy.
Sloane was staring out the bedroom window. They did have a nice view to the small lake below.

She must of sensed his presence, as she stated, "I was trying to decide if curtains or blinds would be best in here."

"Oh aye? To keep prying eyes out of this room? To what purpose, darlin'?" Sully teased.

Sloane smiled. "I think Sully, sleeping in the spare room is rather silly. Don't you think? This is our room and you should have a say in the window dressings. Perhaps you would like to remedy your sleeping arrangements."

Well if that wasn't a bleedin' invitation, nothing was. "Aye Sloane darlin', I believe I do."

Sully spun her around and kissed her thoroughly. Enough of this taking it slow bollocks, he knew his heart as surely as he knew hers.
Her kisses were sweet, tentative, like she wasn't sure. But she soon threw herself into it, full bore.
He pulled her tight against him so there would be no mistaking what he wanted.
Her. Only her.
Her kiss was deliciously fevered, searing hot and it awaked every sense in his body.

"Sully..." Sloane murmured in between his attentions. "I should tell you, I've not been with a lad. Not in that way."

Sully was a little surprised. Before he could reply, Sloane whispered, "I wanted it to be you Sully. All this time, I waited. I wanted no man but you, I never will. Show me everything. Now."
Sully groaned under her luscious lips and began to back her up against the wall.

Divesting himself of his clothes, he let Sloane look her fill. And she did, he was pleased to see the admiration and desire on her face.
He groaned loudly when he slowly removed her clothes and saw she was wearing red silk lingerie with stocking and garters. His hands skimmed up her side, "I love this, keep it on..." His hand moved lower, he felt the hooks at her entrance, bloody perfect. "I don't know how I stayed away from you for so long." Sully moaned.

His hands, long fingered and strong, pulled her close to him. She felt the whisper of breath at her neck, the thunder of his heartbeat. He cupped her arse, bringing her next to the part of him she longed to feel. Instinctively she moved her hips. Rubbed her silk stocking leg against his bare one, tearing another groan from him.
"I have worn this everyday since I moved in here, waiting, hoping." she nibbled at his earlobe.

Sully scooped her up and brought her on top of him on the bed. The warmth, the supple feel of her skin. Sully reached down and undid the hooks, his fingers brushing past the wetness of her. He guided her on top of him, slowing easing her downward so her discomfort would be minimal. Sloane gasped briefly, then soon began to move. A dance as old as time.
The splendor of her damp skin and the wild cry of her release. And the absolute way she sent him to sensual oblivion.

Finally. This is what she dreamed of since she was old enough to understand the feelings she always had for Sully. Her hand raised to her still thundering heart. It was everything she hoped for and more. Sully. He pulled her close, the feel of him sparked her interest afresh.

"Are you alright darlin', I didn't...hurt you?" Sully asked softly, concern in his voice.

"No Sully. Not at all."

"We're going to be married Sloane, know that. We can do what Lorcan and Julie did or if you prefer a church wedding whatever you want. Or we can go on as we are, shacked up as they call it. You tell me, darlin'. I love you, I want us to be joined, legally, emotionally...permanently."

"Oh Sully, I love you so much. Aye, married." Her hand traveled down his muscular torso, her eyes hooding with desire. He grew larger at her touch, she squeezed. "Can we do it again?" She purred.

Sully moaned. "Aye. Again. Always. Yours."

Late that night at the detective squad:

Trevon Parsons had been back to work for close to two months now, Tyler and Mike partnered him with Domingo Espinosa. It was a bit rough at the first as neither were used to a partner but they soon managed to begin to work together quite smoothly.
Tyler put them both in charge of trying to find out who was behind the uptick in Phets and other pills on the streets.

They had arrested some twitching junkie who was selling the unique brand on the street, the pills had an 'O' stamped in them. He could tell them nothing, the sellers were told where to get the pick up, no face to face involved. The money exchanged who knows how. The junkies were calling the man "The Shadow", it was how Trevon and Domingo were starting to think of him too.
Some disembodied voice on the phone giving directions, some puff of smoke.

Trevon and Donna were still dating and still trying to make things work. It wasn't easy, Donna was finding it hard to trust Trevon but she was slowly coming around. With that and a pregnant sister causing him worry, problems at work was just piling it on. Made him short tempered.

"Izzy gave us nothing! How many of these scum bag junkies do we have to drag in to get any answers?" Trevon snapped.

"All of them." Domingo replied firmly. "There isn't going to be enough cells to hold them. It's just a matter of time, we'll track it down. Keep cool Trevon man, it will all come out in the wash."

Trevon flung his arms in the air in frustration. He must be in bad shape if Espinosa was being the cool, reasonable one here. "Yeah. right. This feels like the De Luca case, spinning my wheels. And for what?"

Trevon slumped back in his chair. "Sorry man, don't mean to take it out on you. It's taking longer than I thought to assimilate back into work, life...you know."

"Yeah. Look, let's take out a car, go down around Paradise Row and shake down some more junkie scum, that will cheer you up. We'll arrest the more interesting ones."

Trevon shrugged. "Let's go."

Bonnie was walking down the hall to the file room when she saw Domingo and his partner head for the front entrance. She had been avoiding Domingo for 2 months. He kept trying to talk to her, showed up at her house until she put the run to him. Tried to corner her at work a few times but she stopped that too. Then the letters started to come. She couldn't have this. They sat unopened on her dresser, be damned if she would give him an audience but now she would have to lay down the law for good.
But seeing him still caused her insides to dip and roll like a drunk in an alley. He still affected her and he still mattered. But she would never show it. Never again.

She pasted a fake smile on her face and called out, "Excuse me Detective Espinosa, can I have a few minutes?" She had to be polite in front of his partner.

Trevon stated, "I'll wait by the car, don't be long."

Domingo sighed. He was surprised, didn't expect her to talk to him especially at work. Unless she was going to tear a strip off his ass. He still wanted to explain-what he wasn't sure. He wanted her. Another chance. To be forgiven. To be told he really isn't a bastard. Right. In his dreams. And she occupied a lot of space in those dreams of late. He had not seen Pene since that night nor hardly thought of her. It was if he had purged her from his mind. If only he had done it sooner.

He turned to face her and the smile was gone, there was a hard set to her jaw. She glanced up and down the hall to make sure they were alone. "Stop contacting me."

"Did you read the letters?" He asked, his voice sounding more hopeful than he wanted it to.

"No. What is the point. There is nothing between us Detective. Leave it alone."

"I'm sorry-it was a mistake. I haven't seen her since. I don't want to see her. It's over. Let me try and explain..." The words tumbled out of him, trying to say as much as he could before she cut him off.

"I don't care, Domingo."

He smiled. She lied. He could see it in those expressive cerulean eyes of hers. "Did you throw the letters out, unopened?"

She didn't answer right away. Ah, she still had them. He couldn't stop the smug, arrogant look from twisting his features. So they were playing a game now, were they?

"No, but as soon as I go home I will." She stated firmly. "You are so arrogant, I can see it on your face. You think we have a chance? No. I will never trust you. And I can't be with a man I can't trust."

"I can be trusted and you will come to me, soon. I know it. You will come to me because I will be the only man you can turn to and trust. You'll see, Bonnie."

He turned on his boot heel and headed for the door.
Damn the man! She knew he was wearing that pretentious look as a protective mask. She got to see a glimpse of the real man underneath. THAT is the man she fell for. Though the overbearing man he could be was also attractive to a point. But she spoke the truth. Without trust there is nothing. And she could never trust him.

Lorcan had been at Rockland State Pen for close to two weeks, he managed to be put on the fairly easy laundry detail and he luckily had a cell to himself, at least for the time being. He stayed late as a favor to one of the guards, did his laundry for him so the guard let Lorcan have the shower room to himself for 20 minutes. Bleedin' hell, what a luxury. Hot water for once. No dodgy blokes checking out your tackle. He knew the game, heard plenty from blokes back in Dublin. He imagined it was no different here. If he could manage to keep his arse to the wall, he should get through the next 3 plus years unscathed.
And if he stayed out of trouble, in one year he could petition for once a month conjugal visits. A small smile curved about his lips just thinking of Julie.

"Well? Isn't he everything I said? Fresh meat Andy. Wait until he turns around. When I saw him in the showers 4 nights ago, I knew he was for us." Carlos smiled. "And he's Irish, I know you like accents."

Andy's lewd gaze traveled over the muscular form, droplets of water trailed over quite the stunning body. Carlos certainly knew what he liked and he never failed to get it for him.

Lorcan opened his eyes and started slightly to find a man staring at him quite intently. "Sod off mate, I have this shower for another 7 minutes. Alone."

The man reached over and picked up the soap and dropped it at Lorcan's feet. Lorcan looked at the soap then back at the man. "Right, pick up the soap in the shower. I'm not daft. Now bugger off." Maybe he shouldn't have said 'bugger', it made him wince inwardly.

Stay calm, he knew there was two of them. He silently began to calculate his odds. The Guard Wilson was back in 6 minutes, could he hold them off that long? Not bloody likely, what these two bastards had planned. That only took seconds. Stall. But how?
He would fight, he was capable. Did enough of it around the Quays...

Hands grabbed him by the hair and pulled him roughly from under the shower slamming him up against the cold, moldy tiles.
The shirtless shite had him boxed in against the wall. The younger one who didn't speak stood nearby, as if waiting.
5 Minutes.

The man leaned in, his foul breath whispering everything they were going to do to him. He nodded toward the younger man and said the boy Andy particularly had some fun games in mind. The man said he would be their new plaything.

Feck me, Lorcan grimaced in disgust. The worst thing about prison, men were feckin' animals when locked up like this. He had hoped he could avoid this. It was a futile feckin' hope.

He was about to turn and fight them off the best he could when a deep voice called out, "Back off. The Irish is mine."

Lorcan knew that voice, Vinnie De Luca. He heard he was in here but thought he was in solitary. Figured he would never see him. So now he was going to be Vinnie's bitch? Like hell!

Vinnie watched the two men back away from Lorcan Byrne. He looked over his shoulder at his man Larry. His muscle. Well, this was interesting. Vinnie smiled slightly.
Very interesting.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 69

Chapter 71

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SIXTY-NINE Love Her Madly

2012-01-01T11:33:00.003-06:00

Chapter 69 Love Her Madly

When Bonnie found the door open, she knew in her gut she should not have stepped inside. But when she heard the Steppenwolf album blaring upstairs, she knew Domingo was home and she decided she would surprise him.
As she climbed the stairs, she was almost giddy in anticipation.

As Bonnie stepped into the living room, she looked down just in time to see Domingo spread on the floor like a cheap rug, shouting his release with a brown haired woman riding him for all it was worth. She walked in on him having sex-again. With Penelope Prescott-again. Oh. My. God.

Domingo still had a hold of Pene's hips, his body still shuddering and pulsing his climax when he lifted his head to see Bonnie standing looking like a deer caught in the headlights. Oh Christ, no. He didn't lock the door.
Pene was on her second go, oblivious to everything. He gripped her tightly and lifted her off him and non to gently tossing her aside.

"Bonnie! Wait!!"

Bonnie almost stumbled headlong down the stairs, breaking her neck at this point would have been a blessing. She knew it, he stayed exclusive for what...10 days, if that? He was probably having sex with that woman all along! Oh what a fool she had been!

In the distant recesses of her mind, she heard Penelope Prescott yell at Domingo in annoyance, he was still yelling at her to' stop, he could explain'.

What exactly? That he was a pig? She grabbed the bannister and ran faster downstairs, she had to get out of here and away from him. And what she saw.

By the time Domingo got himself untangled from an angry Pene and managed to slip his jeans on, Bonnie was already leaving, the tires spinning and burning rubber as she accelerated away. He stood in the street feeling like a total fucking scumbag. Which he was. What was wrong with him? Weak. Pene shows up, rubs against him, touches him and he loses all control.
It didn't help he was still aroused from his makeout session with Bonnie but that was no excuse. He had none. He suddenly felt sick.

He headed back into his apartment. One thing he did know, he never wanted to see Penelope Prescott again.
This obliterated any sexual obsession she induced in him. The sex tonight was empty. More than it ever was before. He didn't want that anymore.
And Bonnie? She would no doubt never forgive him. How could she trust him ever again? He would never forget that look on her face, he hurt her. What was between them held such promise and he fucked it up. He killed it and it was all on him.

Jimmy Doyle answered his door. Somehow, he wasn't surprised. Penelope Prescott looked like a wounded animal scratching at his door, looking for shelter and comfort. And no doubt, sex. He should send her on her way. He was in no frame of mind to offer succor to someone in worse emotional shape than himself.

As much as he enjoyed their one night stand, he was feeling guilty. Lily was gone true enough but he still loved his wife. His teenage sweetheart, the mother of his now dead babies. He thought he could stay detached like a lot of men can and do. Meaningless encounters. But that wasn't him as much as he tried.

Pene didn't know why she came here. Diablo threw her out, yelling she was never to come by his place again as he was changing the locks. Another rejection. Someone else who didn't want her. Never mind the fact she used him and he in turn, used her. The summation of their so-called relationship. Now she was coming to Jimmy Doyle...for what? Some affirmation of her worth? This man was a stranger. A nobody. But when she was in his arms, his bed, he didn't feel like a stranger.

Jimmy took her hand and laid it on his bare chest. "Who hurt you, pet? I can see it in your eyes. Why come to me? Do I look like the kind of man who can offer comfort? Soothe your fears? Not bloody likely. Go home. There is nothing for you here."

His words were spoken softly in that deep, rumbling lilt. But his voice was determined. She looked up into his eyes. God, they were beautiful. In his own rough, masculine raw way, he was beautiful. She felt her insides dip suddenly. She didn't want to leave. "I don't want to be alone."

Jimmy sighed. Jaysus. He should toss her out on the stoop and be done with it. But the vulnerability in her eyes melted his reserve. He put his arm around her. She continued to stroke his chest, igniting the flame within him, the flame that had all but been extinguished the day Lily and his sons were killed. "What happened, Pen? Why are you here?"

She didn't like that him calling her Pen, he did it the night she stayed but tonight but she didn't correct him. "I've made a fool of myself. Over and over again. With men. I'll probably make a fool of myself here. Everything is so messed up Doyle, I have no where to go. Can you...just hold me?"

Aye, he could do that. He unbuttoned her coat and took it off, he was stunned to see under her sweater and leggings she was wearing the sexiest lingerie he had ever seen. Who did she wear it for? Whatever man that rejected her. She took off the sweater and stood before him. Sweet Jaysus. His body began to react. He pulled her close. She wanted to be held so he would hold her.
She was warmth and feminine softness. His hand stroked her hair.

"Will you...kiss me, Jimmy Doyle?" She whispered.

"If I start, I'll not stop at kissing, pet. You know that. Is that what you want?"

Her head was still on his shoudler, she nodded. He lead her over to the sofa.

Kiss her he did. Thoroughly and completely. For close to an hour they writhed all over the couch, stoking each others desire and passion. She was in his lap now, grinding for all it was worth against his hardness, she parted his lips with her tongue eagerly, tasting the dark sweetness within. The blurry humid heat of raw need was enveloping them both.

She had never felt anything like this terrible, desperate need, like the world would shatter if she could not kiss him or touch him. Of all the men, even Diablo. Never felt this. Never.

His wonderful, talented tongue,which he used to explore every part of her body when last she was here...she wanted to feel it again. Everywhere. He nipped the soft skin along her collarbone, licked along the top of her breasts then captured her mouth again.

"Do you want me?" He muttered roughly against her now swollen mouth.

"Y...yes..."

On the sofa and against the door, he took her. Her legs wrapped around his muscular slim thighs while he worked his magic. Penelope closed her eyes tightly, shutting out everything but the feel of him. The abrasive delight of him-inside her. Deep.
It must be well after midnight, she had been here hours and still, they continued.

Jimmy stopped. Did she feel it? The intensity and the connection, or was he just one in a long line of stupid buggers that she used and tossed aside. It was more than that to him. More fool him. No, he did nothing by half-measures, try as he might. He slowly moved out of her and plunged back in, she moaned. How he was keeping her upright like this without his legs turning to jelly was a miracle. Surely she knew his kiss now, that they fit together so well in all ways.She must know it. But he would never say it aloud.

Hours went by, Jaysus they were still at it like a couple of damned rabbits in the underbrush. He stood behind her, slamming away as she gripped the chair and cried out for him to go faster. Rabbits...well, they were in animal mode now, no mistake. A frantic meeting of heat and light. His sweat mingled with hers, their breath and heartbeats as one. Their need. Insatiable. Blood, thick and hot. He grasped her waist tighter, he wanted...to touch her soul.

It was 3 a.m. before they finally took a breather. Penelope dressed quickly and efficiently. She stopped before the open door. She had a quick glance, Jimmy was naked and sitting on the sofa, hands behind his head like he didn't care. He did not look at her.

She did make a fool of herself, again. "Goodbye Doyle." She said quietly, closing the door.

Jimmy slumped forward, not only from physical exhaustion but utter confusion. He let her walk out and leave. What was he going to say? He couldn't get a handle on his own feckin' feelings. All he knew he wasn't going to chase after her and beg for her attention. That was not him, not in any way.
Let her come to him.
But he knew, she wouldn't.

September 1970

A couple of months have passed. The summer was uneventful much to the relief of everyone concerned.
In the world, one of the first strikes for Woman's Equality was held in New York City.
600,000 people attend the Isle of Wright rock festival off the coast of England in August.
Jimi Hendrix dies of a overdose, U.S. troops withdraw from Cambodia.

In Rockland, the clock had run out for Lorcan Byrne, his trial was short, sweet and to the point. No jury as the judge would be passing sentence.

Mike Leary sat in the witness chair and explained the in-depth investigation into the De Luca's and their associates, of which Lorcan Byrne was one. That he and his cousin Ronan McCarthy, now at large along with Rory O'Carroll, who also was on the run, were involved in the preparing, distributing and selling of high grade heroin and cocaine, at different times.

Then Mike stated that when Lorcan Byrne was arrested, he was no longer in the drug business, but trying to turn his life around, running a business, become part of the community and start a family. That Lorcan Byrne was able to be rehabilitated and his sentence should reflect that.
The judge thanked Captain Leary and said he would take it under advisement.

Lorcan nodded toward Mike as he took his seat. The man didn't have to do that. Whether it would help or not, remained to be seen. He only allowed Sully and Julie in the courtroom as much as Liam, Brogan, Nick, Veronica and Sloane wanted to be there, he asked them if they could not. It was going to be hard enough to accept his sentence and be taken away, he didn't want to do it in front of a court full of people. Sully and Julie were the two people that meant the most, he wanted them near.

He watched as Trevon Parsons walked up to the stand. This would be the nail in his coffin. Trevon, he had no idea he was a copper, thought he was a mate. Lorcan would not be so forthcoming to strangers ever again. Lesson learned.

Trevon explained his undercover. That Ronan McCarthy did the actual preparation of the drugs, and after him, Rory O'Carroll. APB's were out on both of them.

Trevon went over in detail, that night Lorcan and he stopped by an old abandoned warehouse to pick up the drugs, now ready for sale and distribution. Trevon repeated the conversation between the cousins that he overheard, said he saw Lorcan open some crates and do a count. They took the drugs to another warehouse across town. By the time he informed the MCU and they did a raid, the drugs were gone. They moved them around a lot, along with their portable lab. Trevon explained the drugs were sold like a wholesale operation to other gangs, who then sold them on the street.

"And you say Vinnie De Luca was in charge of this drug operation?" The judge asked.

"Until he was arrested for Murder, then his son the late Keiran De Luca took over."
The judge thanked Trevon for his testimony.

"Lorcan Seamus Byrne, please rise. It is the verdict of this court that you have pleaded guilty of the charges of selling and distributing the illegal substance of Heroin. This hearing was to establish the length of your sentence. The new drug enforcement laws that came into place earlier this year dictate that you receive a sentence no less than 10 years..." Julie cried out, the judge shot her a stern look and continued.

"However, I have taken the D.A.'s recommendation and the testimony of Captain Mike Leary in the rendering of my sentence, and I hereby sentence you to 5 years at The Rockland State Penitentiary, with eligibility for parole in 3.5 years. I also am levying a fine of 50,000 dollars in addition to your sentence, I am sure you can afford it." The judge sneered slightly. "Bailiff, please escort Mr. Byrne to the holding cell to await transport to Rockland State." He pounded his gavil. "This court is adjourned."

Julie stood. She was trying to hold it in, she could make a scene, throw herself at him and wail. Curse the judge but what was the point? Lorcan was right, he was a drug dealer and he was caught. He had to take the punishment. Why was she attracted to this type of man, like Keiran, now Lorcan? Criminals both. Yes. But also capable of great feeling, how to reconcile the two sides of them both, she couldn't. Never could, probably never would. Regardless, she loved him. Tried to deny it, it was futile. Her feelings for Lorcan were of such a vast depth, the galaxy couldn't possibly contain it. And he felt the same, she knew. This past summer was intense, like they tried to pack three years of living and loving into three months. It would have to sustain them and see them through.

Julie looked at judge. 'Can we...have a moment?" She asked.

The judge nodded, "Only a few minutes, Mrs. Byrne."

Lorcan wouldn't look at her, like a little boy who was caught with his hand in the cookie jar, only this was more dire. Her heart was being torn into bits. How could she get through the next 3-4 years? Yes, Lorcan's family and friends had everything worked out. But she would be alone, the nights would be the worst. To not feel him next to her, inside her, loving her. How could they bear it? But they must.

Lorcan exhaled shakily as Julie stepped in close, she kissed his cheek and he could smell that glorious fragrance of hers, her body almost touching his. Jaysus, this was torture.

"I will wait for you Lorcan, me and Byrne. We will be here waiting. There is no one else for me. No one. Ever. Remember that. I love you. You are my soul."

Lorcan swallowed deeply. "Aye mo mhuirnin, my soul, my heart and my very fecking life. I will never let you down again, I swear it. I will make you proud of me someday."

"Oh Lorcan, I'm proud now. I always was." She whispered.

He couldn't stop the tear from spilling down his cheek. Julie reached up gently and wiped it away.
"I will be to see you. As soon as I can. Be careful in there. Please. Stay safe and come home to me."

It was a week later and Brogan and Lorcan decided before he went to prison that maybe bringing over another Byrne to help with the business would be wise. Brogan did go for his audition and Cascade Records gave him a small contract, so he had to get serious about his music and could not devote the time to Byrne Sanitation as he would like. Brother Nevan was decided against so they went for younger brother Reese just turned 23 and fresh out of university. He would stay with Brogan now that Sloane had moved in with Sully.

They had just got back from a quick visit to Lorcan at the pen. It was only 15 minutes drive away, but it was bleedin' hard to see Lorcan incarcerated like that. Reese took it especially hard, Always looked up to his oldest brother Lorcan, looked the most like him. So when he got the call, he didn't think twice, booked a flight on Pan Am, here he was. He'd do anything for Lorcan. Anything.
Besides, not much job opportunities in Ireland at the moment.

"I will be around when I can, I will have to go and stay in New York here and there. They might put me on as a fourth act on a rock tour with The Beau Brummels and some other groups. But that may be months off. Casey Ryan can help fill in the blanks." Brogan offered.

"I sensed something between you two, or am I daft?" Reese questioned.

Brogan shrugged. what could he say? Not much had happened since that night at the Flamingo. He asked her what Dark Eyes said, she waved it off, he didn't pursue it. He was no longer at The Beatnik, but still played weekends at the Flamingo, and Dark Eyes was there, he ignored her as best as he could, considering she was there every time he turned around.

"I thought there might be, even if there was, I don't have time to muck about with a woman right now." Brogan said nonchalantly.

"Give over Brogan. I was there, I saw how you took that lass' death in Belfast. You are holding back here. You don't want to care for any woman like that again." Reese observed.

Guess going to university made Reese one smart fecker. He no doubt spoke the truth. He was physically drawn to Casey, she appealed, no mistake. But he had too much to deal with right now. Dreams to follow. Get established. But it was her that stepped back, not him. And why? Before he left for New York, he had to find out, he had to talk to her. He hadn't even kissed her yet. And he wanted to. He needed to. At least once. Maybe that would tell him what he was feeling, or maybe, it would confuse him more.

Darcy was about a month from delivery, and while Liam took them out for Sunday Brunch, he drove down a street that was not familiar to her, she knew only the well-off lived here.

Liam gestured about the property. "This used to be my childhood home, lived here from age 18 until I got my own place. When my father was arrested 6 years ago, it was taken in a assets seizure. The present owners are selling, and...I want to make an offer Darcy."

She glanced at the stately stucco home. "But...this is beyond what we can afford!"

"Nope. I made a nice profit on the house I sold, and I am told by the real estate agent we can made a nice sum on the present house. Also, courtesy of pop, I came into a little money. Don't ask its origins, you are better off not knowing. I want to put it to good use." He leaned down and patted her stomach. "Besides, we need a bigger place. I want to fill this place with love and laughter Darcy. A big place the entire family can gather. A place our kids can feel safe, secure...loved."

"Oh Liam. If you think we can afford it, then let's do it. Are you sure? This house may not hold happy memories for you."

Liam pulled Darcy into his embrace. True, his mother died of cancer here, a lot of conflicts over the years, but also, some happy memories as well. He wanted to expand that. "The family has been through so much this past year, I want a place we can all get together, be happy. It maybe a while before we can furnish every room, but its got a pool."

Deanna squealed in delight. "Wait until Dylan hears!"

Darcy and Liam laughed. "The house will never feel empty, I promise." Liam stated.

Penelope Prescott did not return to work. After being transferred out of the Heights, she tendered her resignation. She needed time off. Especially after that humid, crazy night in late July. She had stayed cloistered away in her penthouse trying to decide what to do next, return home to Rhode Island, tail between her legs? An extended trip to Europe?
All that was now a moot point because Doctor Willoby just confirmed her worst fear, she was pregnant.

"Miss Prescott, in all my years of practice, I have never seen this, though I have heard of it. It is extremely rare, but you are expecting twins...from two different fathers. Blood tests confirm this." The doctor explained.

"That is not possible!" Penelope said firmly. "Twins? There are no twins in my family! And 2 different fathers? I can't accept it!"

"It can happen I assure you Miss Prescott, in fact, it can in 2.4% of twin conception. 2 eggs dropped at once. Did you have sexual relations with different men perhaps within 24 hours of each other?"

Oh God. That July night, over 2 months ago. She had sex with both Domingo and Jimmy...within hours of each other. Unprotected sex. Something she was always careful about until that night. TWINS? Bad enough 1 baby, but 2? She suddenly felt ill. How could she handle children? Her lower lip quivered. It would be someone to love and to love her in return. Domingo...Jimmy. Oh Jimmy. How many times was she tempted to show up at his trailer again, just to be held and kissed. But she stayed away. She knew nothing about him, neither one of them really. She had to get away and she needed time to think.

"So, they would only be half-siblings?" She could not wrap her head around this. Does she go home to Daddy now? It would be so easy. And what about Domingo and Jimmy, didn't they have the right to know?

"Yes, technically half-siblings. So, did you have relations with different men within the time frame I mentioned?"

Penelope gulped deeply. Obviously. "Yes I did, 2 men on the same night, within hours of each other."

God, she sounded like a slut. Which she supposed she was. It was one reason as tempted as she was to keep contact with Jimmy Doyle, she didn't. Her behavior that night. Utter, complete slut.
Now, she was going to be a mother. Oh my...God.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 68

Chapter 70

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SIXTY-EIGHT: Heart Full of Soul

2011-12-31T18:57:00.004-06:00

Chapter 68: Heart Full Of Soul

Brogan Byrne did one better than taking Casey out for a drink, he took her for an early supper, then brought her to the small club he was playing at on weekends outside of his gig at The Beatnik. The Flamingo Lounge was small, intimate and important. Brogan heard some record executives from Baltimore or New York often trolled these smaller clubs looking for talent and the Flamingo was on their radar. So he made bloody sure it was on his.

Supper was a success, they talked non stop, he hadn't talked so much in ages. He found out her parents had died in a car accident 3 years ago, just her and her brother Kane left. She was 22 years old and her brother about 13 months older. It had been a struggle, making ends meet. He understood that as his family was never well off.

It was early yet, his set wasn't for another hour,. There were only a couple of people in the club but he brought her here because he wanted to perform just for her. Jaysus, her skin shone with a inner luminescence that fair took his breath away. He caressed her cheek lightly then gently lifted her chin so she would look at him. She had doe eyes, innocent, wide and gorgeous. The blue of a calm, cool ocean.
He hadn't felt this in months. He hadn't felt this intensity with Tarrah, truth be told.

He stepped back, she was blushing so she felt it too. The flame, the heat. "I was wondering love, if you would let me perform a couple of songs, just for you. Then, would you stay for my set? It's about an hour, then we can go back to my place if you like. Not sure my cousin will be there but even if she is we can still hang out."

She smiled. "I would like that. All of it."

He took her hand and led her to the table right in front of the stage.

This is where he felt at home, secure. He picked up the Rickenbacker that Lorcan had given him. He closed his eyes as his fingers strummed the opening chords of "The Turtles, 'Happy Together'.

♪ Imagine me and you, I do
I think about you day and night, it's only right
To think about the girl you love and hold her tight
So happy together ♪

This wasn't some hobby of his or some past time. He was GOOD. Really good. His stage presence was mesmerizing. He was the whole package. She had a vision of him in a large arena, front man for a band of his own with screaming fans surrounding him. He was going to go places, she felt it. She knew it. Maybe he was too much for her. How could one woman satisfy such a shining beacon, harness him, how could such a man stay faithful? She heard the stories of these rock stars and their hedonistic lives. Other men had fallen to the temptation, why not Brogan?

The thought of rock groupies hanging off him, begging for him, turned her stomach. She couldn't handle this.
Maybe she was jumping too far ahead here. They only just met. Who was to say he was even going to make it anywhere with his music?

♪♪ I can't see me lovin' nobody but you
For all my life
When you're with me, baby the skies 'll be blue
For all my life

Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it has to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together ♪♪

Brogan opened his eyes and watched her reaction, she was certainly engrossed in his performance. He meant the words, he was thinking of her day and night. He wondered, could they be happy together? It was worth exploring. Toss the dice. Life was a gamble on so many levels.
God, she was glorious. He wanted to know her in all ways. She clapped enthusiastically.
he slid into the Yardbirds 'Heart Full of Soul'

His intense gaze, she felt her insides turn to liquid. His voice was hypnotizing and he could sing at just about all octaves. It had a rich vibrancy that clenched her heart. Yes, rock groupies would be screaming at his feet. Easily.

Callie Thorne watched through the glass doors of the Flamingo. He was singing to her, Casey Kane. Yes she knew her name now and where she lived. She had followed them on their supper date.

She opened the door with a good deal of force, it crashed against the wall as she strode into the small club. Her eyes firmly fixed on Brogan Byrne.

♪ Sick at heart and lonely,
deep in dark despair.
Thinking one thought only
where is she tell me where. ♪

Callie's dark eyes glittered as she watched and listened. Every move he made, every toss of his head, every thrust of those hips. It was for her, she knew it. No one else.

Casey turned at looked at the woman whose gaze, frankly, was a little scary. She was staring at Brogan like he was a sinful dessert. Her desert. Who was she?

♪ And I know if she had me back again
well I would never make her sad.
I've gotta heart full of soul.. ♪

Brogan continued playing, sliding into the guitar solo. Jaysus, SHE was here. Did she have to show up where ever he performed? He was sick of her face and the way she looked at him. Dark Eyes was one sick chick. One morning, he could have sworn she was outside his flat, watching. Surely he imagined that.

♪ She's been gone such a long time
longer than I can bear
but if she says she wants me
tell her that I'll be there ♪

Callie moved closer to the stage, drinking in the whole, long length of him. Her eyes lingering on his crotch, back up to his open shirt which showed an expanse of muscled torso. She licked her dry lips. Hers. All hers.

And she make this blond slut know that. "He's mine..." Callie snarled, loud enough to be heard over the music."You are a temporary amusement to Brogan. He always comes back to me. You are merely the flavor of the month."

Casey could not believe this, who was this woman?

"I've been in his bed, many times, tasted every inch of his skin. Had his big Irish cock in my mouth. That's all he wants from you is your lips wrapped around his prick. Then he will toss you aside as he has done so many others and he will come back to me. Only I know how to please him. To make him moan. Beg. It will never be you or any other woman. He's mine. Remember that."

Casey winced. She suddenly had a vision of this woman on her knees in front of Brogan. It turned her stomach even more than it already was.

With a smile of satisfaction, knowing her blunt and crude words had hit their mark, Callie strode from the lounge. Her work here was done. No need to follow him anymore tonight. Soon she had to move on to her next plan. To make him hers for always. But she was patient. No matter how long it took.

Casey swallowed back the bile that had crawled its way up her throat. The joy of Brogan's performance was gone.

Brogan had finished the song, Casey did not applaud nor even look at him. He watched as Dark Eyes said something to Casey, he saw the look of disgust on Casey's face. Dark Eyes left.

That woman was a pain in his arse. Sorry now he ever spoke to her that night in the alley. She was feckin' sick, who but some nutter would appear at his every performance?

He sighed, putting the guitar back in it's stand. The night seemed ruined somehow. All the air, all the hope has been sucked out by that dark haired witch.
What did she say to Casey, he was almost afraid to ask.
She did not look best pleased.
He suddenly cared very much what Casey thought of him and his singing. Very much.

He was about to head for her table when a man stepped in front of him. "I say, I was impressed with your performance, you will be doing some more, I wager?"

The man had a slight British accent. "Let me introduce myself, Nigel Chance, from Cascade Records. We are a small label but always looking for new talent."

Brogan smiled slightly. Was this it? The foot in the door?
Luck? Fate? All that bollocks? The man's name was chance. "Aye, I have an hour set coming up. Name is Brogan Byrne, glad to meet you, Mr. Chance."

"Irish lad, wonderful, last thing I expected to find in this club. Your voice had amazing range and depth. I would like to stay and hear your set, I think we can arrange an audition for you in New York. I want to hear more from you first."

"Absolutely. Stay. Anything in particular you would like to hear? I can do rock, folk, you name it."
Nigel Chance's gaze looked Brogan up and down quite thoroughly. "Rock music, mate. I think that is your strength. I want to hear to rip the roof off this bleedin' place, can you do that?"

"Aye. I'll make your ears bleed." Brogan replied.

"I like you already lad. See me after your show. We'll talk." He handed Brogan his card. "This is the real thing. Call and check if you want."

Brogan could barely keep the joy from bursting from him. He would rock this feckin' place down. Could this be the break he had been hoping for?

Joey, Mike and Liam went to the woman's wing of Rockland Penitentiary where Erin O'Carroll was awaiting trial. She elected trial by judge and jury, her lawyer was trying to get her off due to the fact they couldn't prove the gun that killed Clint O'Shaunessy was in fact, hers.

But they did get a fingerprint off the chamber. Hers. Her lawyer was going to argue it didn't prove a thing. Regardless, they had her on drug charges. She was going to serve time, it was just a matter of how long and for what.

Erin looked at the men in front of her, her eyes lingering on Liam. Shave off that goatee and he would look very much like Keiran, it was almost painful to look at him, the reminder. The stark punch in the gut of the loss. Her heart had dried into ash when Keiran breathed his last.

"Why are you here?" She questioned. Though she had an idea.

"Not to discuss your case but to talk about your baby. Keiran's baby. It is his, correct?" Mike asked.

She snarled. "Of course it is. Get blood tests if you don't believe me."

"Glad you said that, because we will be insisting on it. Joey here had a lawyer draw up a preliminary agreement with regard to adoption. He has a couple of stipulations." Mike replied.

Erin's blood began to simmer, who did this cop think he was? This was none of his business. It was obvious Liam and Joey wanted him here. Bastard.

Erin's gaze drifted over to Keiran's half-brother. The man was dazzling to look at. Keiran often talked about Joey Indelli with affection, so Erin decided she would hear him out.
"Go ahead."

"The child will be legally adopted and take my name, Indelli. And we feel it best for the child if you have no contact with him or her. When you get out of prison, if you get out, we will talk again until then no letters, no calls, nothing. I will send you updates quarterly about how the child is doing."
Joey took out the legal papers and slid them across the desk toward her. "Read and sign." He got out a pen and laid it next to the paper.

She couldn't believe this, she was under the impression someone in the family would take in the child until she was able to look after it herself, not legally adopt!

She glanced over at Liam. "You can't want this, it's Keiran's baby, he should be named De Luca! Liam, you know this!" She looked at all three men. "You can't keep me away from my child, Keiran's child, that is cruel!"

"Erin, you could be in prison for years, decades for all we know. The baby needs a stable home with parents who will love it, love it enough to give him or her their name. Keiran would understand." Liam crooned in a soothing voice. "Read over the paper and sign."

Joey suddenly felt guilty, were they doing the right thing? But Liam was right, she could be in prison for years, the child should have a stable home.
Erin picked up the pen and scratched her signature and shoved the paper back toward Joey.

Joey took it and the three men turned and walked out. Damn them. All of them. It was her baby, hers and Keiran's. No way was she going to slink away and have nothing to do with it. She would be out of this hellhole someday, and when she was, she was taking her child back. No matter what anyone said, or some stupid piece of paper.

Bonnie and Domingo had seen each other every time they were off now for over a week, things as they say, were progressing nicely. They went to the opposite end of the city, or to Easton Beach, to ensure , or hope, no one from the precinct saw them.

This was a revelation to Domingo, dating. Had never really done it before, didn't think he was even capable of the intricacies of the give and take in a blooming relationship. He had never done of lot of this before either, touching or kissing. Exploring. It was usually exchange as few words as possible, hot sex and see ya.

Standing outside Little Joe's sandwich shop in a light drizzle, they continued to make out, oblivious to the summer rain.

Christ, this woman could kiss. And she was getting better at it, even aggressive which turned him on more than he thought it would. Her hand trailed down his back and grabbed his ass. A ragged, husky moan escaped his lips, they had better get in the sandwich shop before he took her right here.

The only other people in the place was a man and his daughter. Placing their orders, they shook off some of the rain that had accumulated on their shoulders.

"So, how's the new partner working out?" Domingo asked. He tried to keep the resentment and jealousy out of his voice. He'd seen the rookie, big, good-looking bastard. Like most of the male cops, he wondered how this could work, wouldn't...the male/female thing always factor in? Attraction? Sex? He growled inwardly. No one was touching Bonnie but him.

"He seems fine. One of the top graduates out of the academy, no problems so far."

Domingo slid over on the seat and put his arms around Bonnie. "If he gets out of line, let me know, I'll take care of him." He smiled.

Bonnie laughed. How quaint. Her protector. "Oh? What do you mean, 'get out of line', flirt? Touch? Kiss? I don't think I appeal to him, just a feeling. And there is only one cop that has my attention."

"Who?" Domingo demanded.

"You goose. You! Who else?" Bonnie smiled, she had to admit, she loved seeing the jealousy flare in those blue flame eyes of his. This stunning man wanted her. She could see it, feel it and it was heady and making her dizzy.

She reached out and caressed his stubbled chin, bringing him in closer. He had the goofiest, smitten, besotted look on his face. His eyelids hooded, the sinfully long lashes touching his cheekbones. He really was quite beautiful.
This couldn't be an act, if it was he deserved an Oscar.

Bonnie could not hold back anymore, she assualted his mouth. Her hand splayed on the back of his head to hold him steady while she tasted the smoky sensual depths that turned her to liquid all over. He was soft, welcoming and pure raw heat.
She was no novice here, 'plain' she may have been called before, but she did have a few, brief, intense relationships. Not for a long while and nothing like this. NO man tasted...like this. Ever.

God Damn. Domingo could not believe her kisses, never been kissed like this, by any woman. He turned the tables, taking over the assault, leaning her back and taking control. His tongue stroked, his arousal was beyond.

He would have lost all control if the man across the way hadn't yelled over, "Hey! This is a family restaurant, do you mind?"

Oh yeah. They were in a public place. He reluctantly broke off the kiss, but couldn't break the connection. He stroked her cheek. Her eyes closed and a soft moan left her luscious lips.
"We almost got thrown out of here." Domingo laughed, looking over at the man who was still frowning at them.

"We should get these sandwiches to go." he purred. "I want to take you back to my place, strip every piece of clothing off you, kiss and lick you from head to toe until you cry out for release. Then, I would spread your thighs and...." he whispered all the wicked, delicious things he would do to her, in raw, unfiltered detail.

So much for that. Bonnie dropped him at his door with no more than a pat on the head and a quick chaste kiss before she sped off. Guess all she wanted to do was kiss and make out, his suggestions were maybe too much, too soon.
But his aching arousal was telling him it wasn't too soon. He wanted her.
Desperately.

He tossed his keys on the kitchen table and climbed the stairs to his bedroom and living area above. He wondered, was Bonnie a virgin? She sure as hell didn't kiss like one, not that he knew the difference if there was one.

By the time he reached the top stair, he could smell it. Chanel No 5. It was HER.

"How in hell did you get in?"

Pene shrugged those creamy white shoulders of hers. "I still have a key. You never asked for it back. I took that as an invitation."

"You are the one who broke it off, not me." If he was still semi-aroused from kissing Bonnie, seeing Pene in his favorite lingerie hardened him further. Damn, he could see the slow smile curve about her mouth as she glanced down at his crotch. It was obvious no doubt.

"You know what you want...I want it too. Fuck me, Diablo."

Jesus, it snapped, what little self-control he had over this woman shattered at his feet. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her. Something he really had not done with her before. It lacked the heat of his kisses with Bonnie.
It was a painful, angry possession. Angry at her, for reducing him to some sex puppet that performed at her command. Angry at himself for the same reason, for succumbing to his weakness.

She pulled away. "My, that was forceful." Her hand trailed down his thigh and made contact with him. "Diablo, ready to go, as always. Your bedroom?"

He didn't want her in his bed. Not anymore. That would imply he was welcoming her back and he wasn't. Just one more time then, he would be the one to toss her aside. Something he had to do, maybe to regain his self-esteem. Gain the upper hand.

"No. Living room." He'd take her on the floor, against the wall, anywhere but his bed. And he would not be gentle. Not that he ever was much with her. She wanted him to be some rutting stag? He could do it.

Bonnie could still feel Domingo's lips on hers. She was crazy. A gorgeous man invited her back to his house for a night of sex and she spurns him. Idiot.
Even if it was this one time only, why not? She had been playing it safe for far too long.
Bonnie pulled a U-turn in the middle of the street almost taking out a fire hydrant.
She was going back to Domingo's, pronto.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 67

Chapter 69

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SIXTY-SEVEN: Make it With You

2011-12-27T12:33:00.003-06:00

Chapter 67 Make It With You

"You grew up a couple of streets over from The Heights?" Bonnie had been listening to Domingo's narrative for the past 20 minutes while they shared a bottle of white wine. He was in essence, a street kid. Single mother in a low-income apartment, no idea who his father was. He called himself a mixed breed, his father was white, so he was told. Explained those startling blue eyes of his. His mother was Puerto Rican, Black, and tough as nails. Worked two jobs leaving Domingo alone a lot of the time.

"She wore herself out. Died of a heart attack some years back. No other family that I know of. She didn't talk much about her people. At times, I hated her. By the time she got home from her shifts at a nearby diner or at the bottling plant, she had no time for me except to yell and nag. I fought back by getting in trouble. I saw the inside of that station more than I care to admit. How ironic I am working there now."

"How did you decide to become a policeman?" Bonnie asked.

"A cop, a big Irish mug called McGillicuddy took me under his wing. The last time I was brought in instead of sending me to Juvie, he sat me down and asked me what I want to do with my life. He cared. He offered to help. I took that help, finished high school and became a cop because of him." Domingo's face twisted in pain. "He's gone now too. Cancer. But he saw me graduate the police academy. He was the only one there for me that day."

Domingo closed his eyes. he felt like some fucking whiny baby. Why he spilled his guts like this around her, he had no clue. 'I'm so alone, love me, care for me.' Jesus. He hated feeling this way. But he knew, he always did. He always used sex as a way to connect but keep himself separate. He never told any woman any of this before, why her? He was having all sorts of strange, unknown reactions to Bonnie Naugle. He struggled to tamp down the emotion.

Bonnie watched his inward struggle and watched the protective shutters come down. That cool, implacable face that she had seen on him many times was back. His eyes were like blue frosted chips of ice. His jaw set and determined. His perfectly sculpted cheekbones were working furiously.
An arctic air wafted off him like that day she came across him working on his car. His shield.
His hardened armor.
She wasn't going to let this happen.

She stood and hugged his back. The muscles were tensing and flexing in protest to her warm touch. Why she even wanted to reach out to this complicated man-Ok. He was stunning looking. But it wasn't just that. He touched her heart. There was no past, no future, his or hers. Just this one man in this moment. A man she wanted in all ways.

"Domingo, it's all right. You don't have to be alone anymore. Come, sit down, we haven't even ordered dinner yet. This is a beautiful place you brought me, let's enjoy it together. Please."

She felt all the tension leave his body, she hugged him closer and laid her head on his back. They stood like that for a few minutes, she didn't care that the other patrons were looking at them.
Finally, they sat back down in the booth.

Bonnie smiled, reached over and caressed Domingo's long masculine fingers. "Suddenly, I'm hungry, I could go for a T-bone steak and lots of fries!"

Domingo laughed. "Whatever you want baby. T-bone sounds good to me too. I'll order onion rings, we can share."

Her hand and fingers continued to stroke, reassure and comfort. All his feelings of doubt flew out the front door. Jesus, her smile, it cracked the clouds and lit up the room. Warmed his damned unused heart.

He curled his fingers around hers not wanting to break the connection just yet. Damn, could he care for someone other than rolling around tangled in the sheets for once? Though he wanted to do that with Bonnie as well. The thoughts of her writhing under him made his insides lurch, along with something else.

He decided, then and there. He was not going to rush this. As tempted as he was to throw her over his shoulder and march out of there and take her back to his bed. And Jesus, was he tempted.

The waiter came and took their orders. Both got the biggest steaks on the menu with all the greasy side dishes, sauteed mushrooms in butter as well. Garlic cheese bread. She had an appetite, he liked that, wonder if she had an appetite in the bedroom? He would bet the sauteed mushrooms she did. He put his arm around her and pulled her close. Their fingers still entwined, they were when they placed the food order. He would only let her go when the food came. His hand caressed her bare shoulder. her skin was glorious like soft satin.

He couldn't stop smiling. Almost giddy like a schoolboy. He was losing it, surely. "Bonnie, I want us to date. Hang out, go steady, whatever you call it. You and me. Screw the rules. I want to apologize for manhandling you in the stairwell, it won't happen again while we are at work. We will keep it professional. But outside work-we can do this. I want to try."

"Actually, I liked the manhandling." Bonnie smiled. "But yes, not at work. Professional? Yes. But Domingo, we could get in trouble if we are caught."

"So we won't get caught. If we have to drive to Baltimore to go to a movie or dinner, we will. So, you and me?"

Bonnie exhaled, that crooked sexy smile was back. How could she say no? "Exclusive? Are you sure?"

"I have never been more sure of anything in my life Bonnie. Exclusive."

It was late, Penelope had called the desk sergeant and he informed her Mike Leary was in his office for about an hour doing some paperwork. She was crazy but this couldn't go on, surely now that he had time to think about it seeing her socially really wouldn't be a bad thing.

She stepped into his office, he was perusing some law books. She often wondered why he didn't go to university and study law, he had the brains for it. However she heard he was married right out of high school and a father at 19. Guess that was why. Her eyes scanned his muscular back causing her to inhale and hold her breath. Easy does it.

"Captain Leary?" She called out.

Mike froze. Christ. He didn't want to do this now, he only stopped by the office to finish a report for Chief Daniels. He felt bad for his reaction when she was last in his office, but she caught him at a bad time. His temper was going to get him in trouble one of these days if he didn't learn to control it. Irenie always could soothe his savage beast. But she wasn't here anymore to be lion tamer. He would have to crack his own whip.

Minutes passed, he had said nothing, had not turned around, had not even acknowledged her presence. God, was she that horrible? Did she disgust him that much? She knew now, she came on too strong, Mike Leary was not a man who liked that, pushy, aggressive women. He was more old school. He wanted to do the pursuing. If only she had shown more patience, eventually...but she couldn't wait anymore. She had waited her whole life for a man like this. She wasn't used to waiting for anything.

Mike turned from the bookcase. "Miss Prescott, I apologize for the depth of my vitriol the other day in my office, you caught me at a bad time. Still, no excuse." Pene went to speak but he shook his head. "Let me continue. Nothing has changed. I am not interested in you in any way, there will never be anything between us. It has nothing to do with my grief, though my grief is a private thing I discuss with next to no one. I won't discuss it with you or any other woman."

"And under these circumstances, I don't think you should be working here in this precinct. It makes me uncomfortable that you will not keep this professional. I have already spoke to D.A. O'Banyon and he has agreed to my request. I told him it was a personality conflict, nothing more. Your transfer should be finalized in a few weeks. I am sorry it came to this but Miss Prescott, that's the way it is. I am not, nor will I ever be, interested in you. And do not have any contact with me after you transfer. I would appreciate it."

Pene deflated like a bike tire with a leak. Well, that certainly kicked her legs out from under her. What could she say? Anything she did say would be pathetic and clingy. He wanted her away from him. Because he did not want her. Message finally received.

She stood up straight, fine. She would walk out of his office with some dignity. "Very well Captain Leary. Good-bye."

She had some time coming to her, she was going to take it until her transfer was processed. Never again would she make a fool of herself over a man, never expose her heart so. From now on, she was going to take what she wanted. From men who were willing. Starting with Diablo Espinosa.

Later that night, the Doctor let them in to see Sully briefly. He was still deep in a coma. Sloane's breath caught in her throat at the sight of seeing Sully, helpless.

Lorcan turned to her. "Are you alright love? You heard the doctor, he could wake anytime and be no worse the wear. He's a tough monkey, it would take more than a few stories fall to harm Sullivan McDermott. You know that."

She burst into tears, she had been holding it back for hours. "Oh damn and blast it all! I didn't want to cry!" She wailed. "If you only knew how long I've loved him, how long I waited and to have this happen, on top of everything else...oh bollocks!"

Lorcan smiled slightly. "Sloane love, I have known since we were kiddies what you felt for Sully. You've hardly hid it."

"I love him Lorrie. So much it hurts. He has to come back to me, I want my life with him. I want him, I've been so patient. I couldn't bear the thought of him leaving me all alone."

Liam looked over at Sully, was his eyelids fluttering?

Sully felt as if he were walking slowly down a long, narrow corridor. He could hear voices, the deep lilt of Lorcan, his cousin's distinctive deep rumble. But the voice that stood out most, was Sloane.
She was calling to him, to come back. That she loved him, needed him.
How could he resist his girl?

"I can't believe all this, everything. that has happened. It's not bloody fair! Ronan..." She caught herself, Liam was in the room. Bloody hell, that was close, she almost said Ronan was dead. "...gone. Lorrie, your going to jail, Liam, your poor brother. What the bloody hell else?"

Lorcan closed his eyes. Jaysus. what the hell else, too right.

Sully groaned, his eyes fluttered open. He tried to sit up, but he couldn't, not at first. His whole body was a giant throb, he was bleedin' alive? How was that possible? He wiggled his toes under the blanket, thank Christ he could move his limbs.
He blinked rapidly. His poor darlin' girl, she was crying, over him, he assumed.

Sloane looked up. Sully. Oh thank God above, he was awake. She was tempted to throw herself on him, but she did not dare, he was banged up, the Doctor said.

"Where am I?" He said. "And better yet, who are all you lot?"

You could have heard a collective gasp in the room

Sully swung around to sit on the side of the bed, he groaned aloud from the effort. Sloane ran over to him. "Don't you know me Sully? Or Liam, or Lorcan? Do you know your own name, do you remember what happened to you?" Oh dear heaven, what if his mind was affected? The Doctor said it could happen.

Sully smiled slightly. "It was a wind-up Sloane, I know who you are and the boyos standing there looking grave and serious. And aye, I remember the fall."

"You bloody great goony! What are you playing at, scaring me so? 'Who am I', you eejit! I ought to give you whatfor! And what were you doing up on the roof? With no equipment? What if that scaffolding wasn't there? You could have been killed! How could you do that, put is all through that, scaring us sick...I...I..."

Sloane began to cry again. With great effort, Sully stood and held her close. "Sorry mates..." he whispered to the two men. "Sloane, I am sorry for scaring you, I thought a little teasing would lighten the situation, 'tis all. I am fine. In one piece, a little banged up, I'll survive. Don't cry, please."
But she did.

Sully stroked her hair. "Listen to me, I love you Sloane with all my wicked heart, I love you, I want so much to be a better man, but I can't be that man, without you." Every ache and pain he was having, receded before the feel of her body in his arms. The sound of her soft sobs, the softness of her hair. She was here and he was alive...to hold her. Feel her. They were together. He would never take her for granted. Not for a moment, not ever again.

"You...you love me?" she whispered.

"Aye, for quite some time now. Longer than maybe both of us realize."

"There will be none of this getting your own place, you and the babe are moving in with me Sloane darlin', we are going to be a family, I swear it."
Sloane hugged him tighter, the tears still spilling out of her eyes.

He looked up at his cousin and his best mate. "We have some things to discuss, Brogan as well. Call him over, let's do it now. Lorcan...Brianna died in childbirth."

Lorcan understood, he knew. He nodded. "I'll call Brogan now."

"I can leave..." Liam offered.

"You're my family Liam and my mate, you are going no where." Sully whispered.

Mike Leary called Bonnie into his office, the rookie he had told her about was ready now to go out on shifts. When Mike announced it at roll call, there was a lot of quiet grumbling, but he made it plain to all his cops that things were going to change, and they had better accept it.
He liked the look of the rookie, plus he was a big guy, could protect Bonnie muscle-wise if needed, it made Mike feel better about putting a woman out on the street.

Bonnie, this is Tristan O'Shea, Tristan, Bonnie Naugle. You are both starting out here on equal footing, even though Bonnie has more years, streetwise, you are both rookies. Understand? If any problems crop up between you, I want to know right away. There is a lot riding on this, not to pressure you both. There are a lot of people that want you both to fail. They don't believe men and women can work together on the streets. I think they can. Don't let me down."

The two walked outside, Bonnie twirled the squad car keys in her hand. No pressure, right. This was new for everyone and the captain was correct, a lot of people were waiting for this 'experiment' to fail.
Well, she would do her part to make sure it didn't.

"Do you want to drive?" Bonnie ventured.

Tristan shook his head. "You go first, I would like it if we took turns. By the shift or by the week, whichever."

"So, you are okay with this? A woman partner?"

Tristan smiled. "I wouldn't have agreed to it if I didn't. Do you know there were 8 women who graduated with me? That's the highest yet. I have no problems working with women. How about you? Can you stand a green rookie?"

Bonnie laughed. "You heard Captain Leary, we are both green. We'll help each other."

Tristan looked at his partner. He really didn't have any problems with women doing police work. As long as plain Jane stayed out of his business, they would get along fine. His business and his personal life.
Now he was on active duty he would get the inside scoop if his drug doings might be in jeopardy. Playing both sides of the fence appealed to him on all levels.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 66

Chapter 68

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark

CHAPTER SIXTY-SIX: Love on a Two Way Street

2011-12-26T11:52:00.004-06:00

Chapter 66 Love On A Two Way Street

Liam could not believe it, here he was again in a hospital waiting room. Might as well put the De Luca name over the door. They waited for word on Sully. Liam was almost physically sick when he got the call. Sully was alive. That was the main thing, it could have been much worse. They could have been scraping him up with a spatula.
Lorcan had brought Sloane. They got calls from Joey and Brogan but Liam thought it best they keep the crowd to a minimum.

"What is taking so long?" Sloane whispered. "I can't take this daft waiting." Should she bring up the fact Ronan's baby was a orphan? The fact the babe even existed? This wasn't the time, she was barely hanging on here as it was. Sully first. Oh crikey if she lost him now she would never be able to go on.

"Sloane love, you know how these thing go." Lorcan soothed. "We have only been here 22 minutes, I know it seems longer. Do you want a cuppa? I can go get you one."

"No, I couldn't. Lorrie, I can't lose him, I love him so much..."

Lorcan knew that, he could see it in her eyes. Not Sully, not his best mate in all the bleedin' world. He couldn't take it either, another blow or another wretched loss. They were mates from the first time they met. Six years old they were, little boyos playing around the Quays. They had been tight ever since. Much like Liam was with this Mike Leary. Only they didn't have a falling out over a woman that lasted decades.

Lorcan glanced over at Liam, the three of them had grown close, working together. Liam and Sully were blood. They were a lot alike, guess that's why it was easy to become mates with Liam. Liam and Sully arranged his bail, Liam got him the lawyer. And he was sure Liam was behind Mike Leary speaking up for him in one way or another.

He could see the guilt in Liam's eyes over Sully's fall. He was about to say something when the Doctor finally came out.

"Mr. McDermott is in a coma. We don't know for how long, and we won't know the extent of the damage until he wakes up."

"What do you mean-damage?" Liam asked.

"Could be head injuries or spinal as he landed on his back. Already there is bruising and swelling but that is to be expected from a fall from such a height. We got the x-rays back and the good news is there doesn't seem to be any broken bones but he is pretty banged up. We will have to wait and see."

Sloane started to wobble, Lorcan reached out and grasped her arm. Damage, head injuries, spinal, oh sweet mother Mary.

Kane Ryan was a man of many secrets. Juggling many spinning plates, keeping many lies straight in his head. A man of many contradictions and layers. He wanted things out of life. He wanted to be a successful writer. He wanted to be rich, he wanted- everything. He wanted it now.
He never was a patient man.

Out on the back deck of the modest home of his late parents, he inhaled the mid-July summer breeze, someone was barbequing nearby, not a bad idea.

Besides the lies he told to himself, he lied to his sister Casey every damned day.
He was selling pills with Jimmy Doyle, replenishing his small trust fund and telling her all was well when the trust fund ran out long ago.

He lied to Jimmy Doyle, because Kane had another guy he sold pills with to try and increase his profit and product.
He lied to himself, that he was a talented writer, when he knew deep down he was a fucking hack.

He heard footsteps on the wooden deck come up behind him...Doyle?

No, he smelled the familiar odor of Black Tie cologne. He knew who it was.

"Kane. I've come for my share and I brought you some more Phets and some LSD as we agreed. It's in my car." The deep voice rumbled.

Tristan O'Shea. His 'secret' partner. In more ways than one.

"I have it, it's inside. Doyle has made deals with four gangs, I am going to need more product. We will be acting as a drug warehouse much like Keiran De Luca did, no street pushers needed."

Tristan smiled slightly. "Good. You sure he doesn't know about me? Doyle? Because that was our agreement, you break it no more drugs or no more of anything."

"I kept my word. I am splitting my share with you, I am getting the shit end of the stick here." Kane reiterated.

"So? That's not my problem. I am your source, I say how the cut goes. Besides, I have that meeting with Darragh O'Shaunessy in two weeks. That will be a bigger split for you as we are shutting Doyle out of that. Patience. You know I share everything with you..."

Tristan reached over and caressed Kane's shoulder. "I share everything, you know that. Everything." His deep voice dropped a couple more octaves, sending shivers up Kane's spine.

For that was his deepest secret of all. It seemed he liked men as much as he did women. At least...this man.
At this moment in his life, he was firmly fixed on Tristan O'Shea.

Kane stepped into his arms. They were taking a chance,out on the deck. anyone could see but he didn't care. He closed his eyes and inhaled the scent that was Tristan's alone. God...another man? Never did he even have an inkling-until Tristan. This wasn't permanent, Tristan already told him that.
Maybe it was like trying a new drug, he was high on the new sensation. Tristan was Cocaine. He wanted a taste.

Tristan pulled Kane roughly next to him. "What do you want?" He growled.

Kane whispered in his ear and pulled back, smiling.

"Here? On the deck? Kane, you wicked, naughty boy."

Kane chuckled huskily, closing his eyes in reply and anticipation.

Without warning, Tristan pulled him close and kissed him, let his damned neighbors see if that is what he wanted.
He kissed him deeply and thoroughly for a few minutes, then pulled back.

"If you want more we better move inside, your sister at work?" Tristan caressed Kane's neck as he spoke.

"Yes. Won't be home for hours yet. What about you?" Kane smiled suggestively.

Tristan smiled. "I'm yours for the afternoon. Let's go inside. Now."

Myrna's mouth dropped open as Duncan Stewart strode into her office. Where was his priest costume, she sneered inwardly. He didn't...did he? Leave the cult? She gulped deeply, her mouth going dry. The man was stunning, what a waste! Total, complete damned waste! Seeing him again stirred up old feelings of anger, resentment and lust. And more.

She thought they were in love as 19 and 17 year olds. They made promises but he chose God-over her. She couldn't live with that. Made her bitter. Hateful. Toward him, toward men and toward God.

"You lost Duncan to a better man." Her strict Catholic father told her. Bullshit. Since Duncan made his choice, she hadn't been to mass since. She would never go again.

Kissing Greg Leary-she saw it now. He opened her heart for the first time since Duncan locked it tight. She felt sorry for Greg, felt compassion and reached out to him. But she didn't care for him in that way, the way she cared for Duncan.
Never should have went over to his damned church, just rubbed the wound raw again.

"Where's your dog collar?" She snapped.

Duncan looked at the bitterness glittering in her eyes. "I don't wear my Clerics everywhere, not since I got back from Vietnam. Call it my own form of rebellion. You want to report me to the Arch-Bishop, be my guest."

"You never rebelled against anything Duncan, in your life, why now?" Myrna replied.

Duncan looked at her, she was still angry at him and it was radiating off her like an electric heater. She was right but then she had not seen a side of the world he did.

He took a seat. "Chalk it up to me learning some real life lessons. I came about your patient, you never came back to see me."

"He's not here right now, he signed out to spend the afternoon with his step-brother. Which I am glad of, he needs to get back out in the world. Like you said, real life lessons." Myrna replied.

"From what you tell me, his incarceration and torture is enough for 2 full lives of lessons."

"And you're an expert. What do you know of real life cloistered away in your church. You know nothing of what happens between a man and a woman, love, family. Nothing. You became a priest to hide from life." She whispered, her voice unable to mask her heartbreak.

Duncan sighed. "You think I joined the priesthood to hide from life? Really?"

"Why else? Oh what does it matter now. It still hurts your rejection of me. Of a life together we could have shared. Do you know what you did to me? How many men I have turned down for dates? You ruined me for any other man. You broke my heart." Her voice ended on a sob.

She stood up and walked over to the window. "I never should have come to see you. It tore the scab off, I still am in love with you Duncan. That's the problem. My problem. To be in love with a man that can't or won't love me back. Because God tells him it is a sin."

Duncan's heart contracted in his chest. He didn't need this right now. He was having enough of a faith crisis than to have Myrna declare her feelings, confusing him more. But he could not deny the pure joy he felt from her words. It was selfish of him to relish her love, hold it but not return it.

He could not stop himself, he stood and walked up behind her. their bodies touched, he heard her sharp intake of breath but she did not move away.

"You're right, I know nothing. I am not hiding from life, I chose a different path, one I am sorry to say did not include you. I struggled a long time before I made my decision, the hardest one of my short life." He whispered in her ear.

"Struggle, maybe. But in the end you tossed me aside. You aren't human, you don't feel. A real man...he...."

Duncan slipped a hand around her waist and pulled her tight against him. "I am a real man, Myrna. Feel. I have feelings and desires same as anyone else."

Myrna's body began to shake from the glorious hardness of him pressed against her.

Myrna turned and slipped her hands around his waist, hugging him as close as she could. "You do have feelings for me! Oh Duncan, we can still be together, leave the priesthood! You have a university degree, you can go into teaching, anything you want! We can have that life we talked about, we can get married..."

Duncan closed his eyes, her words, so tempting. Her body stirred feelings he thought he had buried long ago. He wanted her. But he couldn't act on it. "No Myrna..."

He stepped away and cupped her face in his hands. "Look at me."

"No. I won't. I made a fool of myself again. You had better leave Duncan and forget I said anything." She rasped.

"I love you Myrna, I always have and I always will. But I made my choice, I take my vows seriously. I implore you to move on with your life and find someone who can love you the way you need and deserve to be loved. Start a family. Be happy." His thumbs stroked her flushed cheeks. "My choosing this way of life was not a rejection of you. Don't think that."

Myrna watched as he turned and walked out of her office. Her knees were trembling, her whole body on fire, her cheeks burned where he had touched her. She could still feel his hardness at her back, feel his maleness surround her. He reacted to her, said he loved her yet he was walking away from her again.

The door closed. She knew, she could feel it, her heart being ripped apart again, the stitches were barely keeping it together. He would not leave the priesthood. Even though he felt...she was 26, she couldn't wait anymore. She supposed deep down she hoped it was some phase, he would come to his senses and come back to her. beg her forgiveness for his folly. She was dreaming.

The life, the love they could have had. The promise of it, of what could have been, was heart-wrenching. He wanted her to move on with her life? Then she would.
Let him grow old, alone. With only his God for company and solace. Let his knees get thick with cartilage from all the praying he no doubt did.
"Oh Duncan..."

Trevon was still on his vacation. he stopped by his parents house, Lena was in her room as usual, she had been avoiding him, that was obvious. He knocked and entered, it was 3 in the afternoon but she was in her Pajamas
.
"Lena, what in hell is going on, are you mad at me?" Trevon called out. About 3 years difference in their ages but they were close growing up. Were always honest with each other.

"Me, mad?" she snapped sarcastically.

"How could you Trevon? You let us believe you were some scumbag crook, all these months. Never came near. Oh sure, you finally told mama but not the rest of us. Do you know daddy cried the night you left here, saying the things you did? You broke our hearts."

Trevon turned away. He remembered that night, he had to tell his family lies, hurtful lies and cut all ties to make the undercover more real.

Trevon sat down at Lena's feet. 'I'm sorry, it had to be done to protect you all."

Lena frowned. "Is that the excuse you gave your white girlfriend when you cut her loose too?"

Trevon exhaled. "Yes. Protect my loved ones. It had to be. I had to distance myself from everyone. I had to take on a new persona and leave my other life behind."

Lena curled her lip. "Why a white girl? Is it because she's the Captain's daughter? Couldn't find a girl in your own race?"

Trevon could not believe the bitterness in Lena's voice, he had never heard her like this. "I love this 'white girl' Lena, what does color matter? Isn't that what you always said? You dated white boys. What's the difference?"

"Dating and falling in love with them are two different things, you know that. You think people are just going to accept you both? You're living in a dream world! Oh, who am I to talk-" She barked.

"Lena, this isn't about me, is it? What's going on? talk to me, I love you, I'm your brother." Trevon was getting worried.

Lena laughed, it ended on a bitter sob. "You are not the only one who is in love with someone white."

"I was here that afternoon you came to mama and gave her money, I followed you back to Rockland. I got lost down in those streets, almost was attacked but a man, a white man, came to my rescue. We began to see each other. One thing led to another...I'm pregnant Trevon."

"What? Who is this guy?" Trevon roared.

"You know him. The man who rescued me was Rory O'Carroll. He's the father. And he's gone." She took a shaky breath. "He wanted me to go with him. I said no. I didn't know I was pregnant then. Would I have gone with him if I knew? I don't know. All I know is I love him Trevon and I will never see him again."

Trevon stood, his rage, his anger flared up from deep within him sudden and hot. O'Carroll, that Irish shanty racist bigot bastard. Touched his sister. Got her pregnant. "Did you know what he was? And still you saw him, slept with him? Jesus Lena! He is scum, he hates blacks! And you let him touch you?"

"Yes I did. I'd do it again. I love him." She whispered.

Oh, Jesus Christ, Trevon snarled inwardly. O'Carroll, on the run. Father of her child. That bastard. Trevon clenched his teeth, did he know Lena was his sister-no. How could he? I am going to find him and kill him.

Calais, Maine, on the U.S.-Canadian Border

"Mr. Carmody, you won't regret buying this garage, it is a long established business here in town, it gets a lot of Canadian customers from across the bridge in St. Stephen. As you saw from the books it makes a nice profit. And we are always glad to welcome new blood into town!" The realtor gushed to the tall, imposing blond man standing before him.

We are very close to our Canadian neighbors, we have co-celebrations, share a lot of cross-border business, once the border guards get to know you, you can cross several times a day without much problem, have you been to St.Stephen, New Brunswick?"

"Once or twice." The man answered.

The realtor handed Mr. Carmody the keys. "It's all yours, tow-trucks and equipment inclusive. If you have any questions, be sure and ask! A small town will seem different from were you came from...did you say where you were from?"

The man snatched the keys and walked away. "No, I didn't."

Rory O'Carroll watched the realtor climb into his car and speed off. He exhaled and leaned against his New Yorker. Well, that was done. He stopped in Boston on his way north to see an old acquaintance of his father's and got all new I.D., papers for his car in the name of Rory Carmody.

He toyed with the idea of crossing into Canada, what he saw of it, he liked. But he found this isolated town on the border in Northern Maine would suit his purposes. He set up bank accounts in St.Stephen and Calais to hedge his bets. If he had to he could slip across the border quickly he would swim the St. Croix river to escape.

He dyed his hair, it would be a pain keeping it blond but for the time being he had to do it.

He drove the 2+ hours to Bangor down Route 9 a few weeks ago, the nearest big city in Maine and found a newspaper outlet and a old copy of the Baltimore Sun. On page 5 was the story of doings in Rockland. De Luca was dead, Erin in jail, Byrne out on bail pending a trial. And there was his picture, Rory O'Carroll, fugitive. He felt like a damned coward for running. But what he regretted more than anything was leaving Lena behind.

He sighed and began to walk toward his new business and his new life. But his old life still had a firm grip on his guts and his very soul.
The image of Lena crying her eyes out as he pulled out of the parking lot was forever etched in his brain. He missed her. Yeah, he didn't know her that long, weeks really. But now, here alone in a strange town, he could admit what he could not admit to himself before. He loved her.
Damn.

~TO BE CONTINUED~

Chapter 65

Chapter 67

Crime Story Chapter 62-76 by Karen Drew-Soltesz on Grooveshark