Thread: Bodyguard

Nothing happened, said Draven, his voice firm even as he reached for Abbies hand. He looked up at Tabby, then to Abbie, who looked as if she was about to explode. You know the truth, Tabby, youre smart, you can tell. And I know that, whatever we say your report will show that nothing happened. It will also show that I took out all four dead bad guys, the fourth is outside with a broken neck, he added, as he pushed himself up so he was standing although somewhat unsteadily. He was still a little weak and dizzy from the bloodless, although he knew it would pass. He still held the empty colt, and he reloaded, slapping in a fresh magazine. He nodded and Tabby rolled the body over, before he took careful aim and fired one shot. The bullet went through the same hole Abbies shot had left, no one, not even the most experienced coroner, would be able to tell that another round had caused any damage. He dropped the mag, slapped in an empty and then racked the slide so it locked open. I got lucky, last round. He said. He shot me in the back, he let his guard down and I shot him when Abbie made a noise in another room to distract him. He finished. He turned to Abbie, who was looking more than a little indignant, before he spoke softly. Abbie, if I let you take responsibility for this, questions are going to be asked. Why did I give you a gun? Why did I put you in the position of having to use it? Not to mention, he was shot in the back. He paused, to let that sink in to Abbies stubborn mind. That Abbie was willing to take the responsibility was more than laudable, but if she officially took responsibility there would be questions and repercussions. She had shot the man in the back, NO court in the land would accept that as self-defense. You might be acquitted, you might not, Im not going to put you in that position, he finished. He nodded to Tabby, the other detective took her cue and turned away but not before she felt the need to speak and explain. Hes right, Abbie, said Tabby, softly. As much as he, and I, applaud your honesty and courage for taking responsibility, if I put that in my report both of you are going to be in a world of trouble. Draven, because he put a gun in the hand of an unlicensed and unqualified civilian, and you because you shot a man in the back. Yes, you could justify it by saying he was about to shoot Draven, about to kill the man you love, she paused, shed seen the way Abbie and Draven looked at each other. A jury might buy that, especially if your dad was defending you, but it will open up Draven to a whole world of trouble, she added, as she stared at the young woman. So my report will show that Draven killed all four gunmen, but you took out the one who broke into the room you were hiding in. That is clearly self-defense, she finished, before she finally turned away. It has to be this way, Abbie, said Draven, softly, as he carefully moved so that he could hold her. If we were in Willowburg, this wouldnt even be an option. Theres no way the DA would even think about charging you, but this isnt Willowburg, he finished, as he reached out and gently stroked her face, his thumb brushing the corner of her mouth. He looked over his shoulder, Tabby was studiously ignoring them and was instead looking out the window. And thank you, for saving my life, my Abbie. He leant in and kissed her, knowing it would probably be the last time hed ever be able to do so. I love you, he said, softly, as they parted. The more Draven and Tabby talked, the more Abbie didn't understand. This wasn't like her and Draven, this was something involving truth and the law and honesty. Things were so puzzling that she nearly missed her love trying to get up. Before she could get to him though, Tabby gestured for her to stay back as the woman turned the body over. The sound of the shot and seeing the impact made Abbie jump before she looked up at the others. She wanted to explain to them about the line between black and white shouldn't be a mass of gray. That she was going to do so to a couple of officers with almost as many years of experience then she had birthdays. It was something that she truly thought she had to do. It wasn't until they patiently explained just why things had to be the way they had to be that Abbie understood. She didn't like it, but she understood. In the end she just nodded and then kissed her love again. Now that's settled... I assume you're going back to have a word with that piece of shi... Draven looked at Tabby who looked at Abbie who shrugged. ...crap? Before he could answer, Abbie lightly poked him in the chest. If you're going back, then so am I. This all involves me and I want, nay, I have a right to know just what the fuck is going on! Abbie crossed her arms and glared at Draven who stared back until he finally looked away. I'll go change into something more presentable. She turned on her heel and marched into her room with Tabby following her. Before she went in she mouthed, I like her!. Tabby followed Abbie into her room and quietly shut the door behind her. Just between us two and I ask just to make sure you're okay, she said as the girl was peeling off the blood soaked jeans. Draven had said that nothing had happened but in a way that was a 'non-denial denial'. As before, Tabby didn't think he would do anything against Abbie's will. Also that Abbie was not the kind that could be 'seduced' so easily. She just needed to be sure is all. That and she was curious.. Did you and Draven get....intimate? Just as she was walking to the bathroom to wipe her bare legs Abbie heard the question. She came to a suddenly so fast that she nearly tripped! For several seconds she said nothing as her face started blushing. The answer should be a 'no' or a 'none of your business' Abbie knew but this was a different situation. While she didn't think that Tabby would expose them she also had a fair idea she would if she thought something was wrong. Yeah...we have been, Abbie said softly. It wasn't planned, something we thought would happen, but...it did and it was with mutual consent. The only thing I'll say about it was that it was wonderful. That caused her face to go really red as she smiled shyly. The woman was satisfied with the answer and gave the girl a grin. She was Draven was a gentleman and made sure that Abbie enjoyed it very much. Tabby did want to ask for details but decided not to. There was another question to be asked though... What about... ...after this is all over? Abbie said from the bathroom where she was wiping the blood that had leaked through the jeans. There isn't any. We both know there can't be. Not with everything with my parents. I could survive it but I won't let Draven get caught in that buzzsaw. I just can't. She came out to grab an unopened set of pantyhose to slip on. I love him too much and he loves me. Yes, I know... How can we love each other that much after a couple of days but we do. Abbie stood up to pull on her school skirt but got stopped by Tabby who put her hands on the girl's shoulders. It can happen young lady. My sis got hit by the thunderbolt, as my Nana said, when she meant a blind date. Six weeks later they were married. Ten years later then have 3 kids and are still in love. Tabby could see the hurt that was in Abbie's eyes about the doomed love she had with Draven. I wish it could be different for you two but I understand. And it will hurt for a long time but never, ever let it stop you from looking, k? I bet if you do, he'll come spank your ass. Hmmm....he interested in that stuff? She gave a shocked Abbie a wink. She just stared at Tabby for a few seconds but saying, NO! which caused both to laugh. As she put her shirt, vest, and tie on she nodded towards a book on the dresser. Did you ever meet Detective Komarovsky-Darius? I asked Draven about it but he just growls when I mentioned it. Seeing the book made the older woman roll her eyes. I bet he did! It's sort of a running joke in the department. But yeah, I have met her once or twice. A bit flaky but all that undercover jazz will make you like that. She and her hubby are both good cops, the kind you want watching your back. You remember the Brian Jones shi...crap awhile back? She was the officer he was obsessed with. No way! Abbie exclaimed as she finished putting her hair back in a ponytail. All she needed was her jacket, that Tabby had taken, for her school uniform to be complete. I read about that psycho in the papers. Serial killer and killed the wife of another detective to steal her baby because he was obsessed with a woman. That was her? She shuddered at what that officer had to go through. Somehow, the name and that it was a policewoman was kept out of the papers. Officially that is. When the door opened, Draven saw the two ladies come out. He stopped and stared for a moment at his Abbie and how nice she looked. Nice as in his cock giving an involuntary twitch. Tabby bit her lip from grinning when she saw his look and leaned over to whisper into Abbie's ear. I think he likes the 'schoolgirl' look. That got her a slight jab to the ribs from an elbow. Where are the car keys because you will not be driving all the way home. You will fall asleep and crash the car. I can drive. The officer next to me can attest to that fact. Abbie looked at Tabby who rolled her eyes. Don't get me involved with this.... Oh hell... Yes Abigail can drive and has a license and does not play bumper cars. She has a lead foot though... When Tabby asked if they were going to do anything about the asshole who had set them up, he gave her a barely perceptible nod. He was a Marine, of course he was going to do something about it. The question was, what? A direct, open, and official confrontation, was out of the question. Any evidence would be swept under the counter, the chief would be dismissed, probably with a slap on the wrist and loss of benefits, but still free to stalk Abbie again. Why he was obsessed with her, no one knew and it probably wouldnt make any sense anyway. At least not to anyone sane. No, whatever they did it would have to be final, and that meant it had to be clean. Waiting until Abbie and Tabby had left the room, Draven crossed to the body of the man Abbie had killed, he knelt and quickly searched his pockets, finding a cellphone almost identical to the one he already had in his pocket. He checked the call log, the phone had received two calls, both from the same number. The number was very familiar, because it was from the same phone that had called the one in his pocket. Taking the phone, he hit the button to call that phone back. Do you have the girl? Demanded a very familiar voice, on the other end of the line, before the receiving phone had barely rung twice. Your men are dead, said Draven, softly, fighting the anger that was boiling inside him. You sonovabitch, you tried to have me killed, he added. Nonono, that was just a misunderstanding, answered the voice. Is the girl safe, is she okay? He added, after a short pause. Shes safe, he answered, pausing before he continued. I dont want to know why you want her, but if you want her alive, safe and unharmed, youll have to pay. I dont care what you offered these guys, youll have to pay a lot more, because after I deliver her Im going to have to disappear, start a whole new life, and that aint cheap, he finished. A quarter million, said the voice, almost before Draven had finished speaking. Youre joking, right, said Draven, his tone conveying that he was far from amused or impressed by the offer. Try a million, in cash, and I want it ready when I bring the girl. You try holding out on me, Ill put a bullet in her fucking brain right in front of you, he added, he paused, then finished. Youve got four hours, chief, he didnt wait for a reply, as he closed down the phone, dropped it and then stamped on it. He took the burner phone and tossed it on the couch. He turned as he heard the sound of movement, just as Tabby and Abbie came into the room. His eyes flicked over Abbie, she was wearing her school uniform again, complete with hose and he felt his body respond as his eyes flicked down to her legs. Tabby whispered something to Abbie, who jabbed the detective in the ribs with her elbow. He took the keys for the mustang from his pocket, hesitated for a split second and then tossed them to Abbie. She had a point, he might be awake and alert right now, but he was still more than a little weak from the blood loss. If the needle on the speedometer goes past seventy, I promise you Ill slap you with so many speeding tickets and fines theyll never give you your license back, said Draven, as Abbie caught the keys. They waited until Tabby left the cabin, before they followed, their hands linking. He had his colt in the shoulder rig, the Beretta she had used was tucked into the back of his pants. He squeezed her hand, leant in to give her a soft kiss. It was going to be a long ride back to Willowburg. Hand in hand they walked to the car, if Tabby noticed she never said anything. Tabby had to move her car out of the way and then the van the thugs came in so Abbie could back the mustang out. As she looked back at the cabin, she turned to the detectives and asked a simple question Are we going to let the local police know there are a bunch of bodies out here? I have a little feeling that they will be quite peeved about it all. Before Tabby could say anything Draven held up a finger and then pointed it at Abbie. Think about it for a second. His love had a good mind and he wanted her to use it. She looked puzzled for a few seconds and then smiled. Its an FBI safe house. We tell them and let them deal with the locals. Am I right? Close enough young padawan. Tabby then looked at Draven who looked rather tired. You know you could sleep in the back of my Impala and we leave your modernistic piece of trash here? The look she got from him actually made Tabby step back a bit. Just a suggestion.... Do not insult a man's wheels. Even I know not to do that! Abbie smiled and then helped Draven get seated in the car. He didn't want the help but Abbie gave him no choice in the matter. Tabby got a hug before Abbie got into the drivers seat. Putting on the sunglasses, she then cracked her knuckles, and grinned. I feel the need... The need for speed! When she looked at Draven, she saw that he crossed himself. Oh shut up.... and she started up the car.... To Draven's surprise, Abbie handled the manual transmission very smoothly with nary a grinding gear. I want that Shelby so I had better know how to drive stick. was all she said. Once they were on the highway, things relaxed a bit more. Abbie found a station that played 60's 70's music and she was happy. That got her another look from her lover. What? I like the classics and classical is all. Things got quiet again until Draven realized that his love was quietly singing 'Seven Bridges Road' by the Eagles. Her voice added a little sweeter, softer sound to the melody. When the song ended Abbie heard clapping from the passenger seat. Stop...please... I'm not that good. You should hear me when I try and do 'Gimme Shelter' by the Stones. They made a stop at a gas station to refuel. Draven forbid her from getting out to pump the gas and insisted on doing it himself. She sighed and left the window half open to catch the breeze that was blowing. It felt like the cold snap didn't extend down to where they were now. He came back bearing gifts pop and snacks. Abbie thanked him with a light kiss and told his to SLEEP! That seemed to do the trick because soon after she heard him snoring softly. The miles flew by even though part of Abbie didn't wish them to. Every mile closer to home was a mile closer to ending things with Draven. She smiled at remembering the perfection of that first time they made love. Especially afterwards when they rested together in the afterglow. If she hadn't already been in love with Draven she would have been after that. Abbie knew that while she might have other share her bed in the coming years they wouldn't match the feelings she had with him. Near Williamsburg, she stopped and topped off the gas tank with a paypump station. with her school jacket off and sunglasses on, no one noticed who she was. They hadn't discussed where they would go when they got into town but Abbie figure would be police HQ. By the time Draven woke up, they were in the downtown traffic. Glad you could join us officer, she smiled. Soon enough they were in the underground parking lot beneath the HQ. The pair sat in the now quiet car as they enjoyed the last moments of being alone together. Each squeezed the other's hand and then shared a final, loving kiss. Let's go to work, he said simply and she nodded. They walked together to the elevator where he put the button for the correct floor. Draven had given her the 9mm Beretta again to stuff in the waistband at the back of her skirt. It was nicely hidden by her school jacket. She had strict orders DO NOT USE or TOUCH IT. The door opened once but Draven held up a hand to stop them coming onboard. The sight of Abbie so shocked them that doors closed before they could react. The drive back to Willowburg seemed to pass in a blur of dreams and sleep, interspersed by glimpses of trees and fields as the miles sped by. At some point Draven had fallen asleep, managing to ignore the pain in his ribs for long enough to grab a quick nap. He woke just before the car entered the outskirts of downtown Willowburg, and he opened the window to light a cigarette as they drove along the street. Without needing to be told, Abbie was heading for Police HQ, Draven glanced in the side mirror and spotted Tabbys Impala tailing them. They reached the police headquarters and Abbie pulled the mustang into a space around the back, the two of them holding hands and sharing one last kiss before it was time to go to work. He took the Beretta, racked the slide to chamber a round and then handed it to her to stuff in the back of her skirt. Do NOT even think about touching that, he said, firmly, as they started towards the rear entrance and the elevator that would take them up to the top floor, where the brass had their offices. Tabby joined them as they waited for the elevator, stepped in with them. The ride up to the top floor seemed to take an age, although it was less than two minutes. Once, the elevator doors opened, but Draven put an arm across the opening to stop anyone from joining them. If they recognized Abbie, no one said anything, as the elevator doors before anyone else could board the elevator. The next time the doors opened, it was because they had reached their destination. The three of them stepped out, Draven and Abbie starting towards the chief of detectives office, before he realized that Tabby was following. No, you stay here, Draven told her, as he paused. He could tell that Tabby was about to protest, to say something, and he cut her off. If he even suspects someone else knows he betrayed us, hes going to clam up, he said, simply. Tabby nodded, after a few seconds, it was easy to tell she wasnt happy but she knew that he was right. Draven turned to Abbie, touched her hand gently. You ready? He asked. Yes, was the single word answer he received, although it was far from convincing. Lets do this, she added, after a few more seconds. The two of them moved along the corridor, Draven had his colt in one hand because he knew the chief would be expecting him to be armed. The weapon was empty, and the safety was on, just in case. Reaching the door to the chiefs office, he didnt even bother to knock as he pushed it open and then shoved Abbie in ahead of him. The look of relief on the chiefs face, as he saw that Abbie was alive and safe, was more than enough to convince Draven that the chief was more than a sandwich short of a picnic. See, shes safe and sound, just like I promised, said Draven, as he eased Abbie into the office ahead of him and she half stumbled, acting as if hed pushed her much harder. Detective, what do you mean? Asked Abbie, playing her part. You have the money? Demanded Draven, bringing up the colt. It wasnt pointing at Abbie, but it wasnt exactly pointing away from her, either. Im afraid theres been a change of plan, said the chief, bringing up his own weapon. Drop the gun, detective, we both know you wont shoot the girl, added the chief. Slowly, Draven let the colt slip from his fingers, the pistol landing with a heavy thud that was barely muted by the thick pile of the carpet in the chiefs office. Now what? Youre gonna shoot me? Said Draven, as his other hand moved down to rest against the grip of the Beretta. Something like that, after all, you are the one who tried to kidnap Miss Michaels, said the chief, his attention flicking briefly to Abbie. Dont worry, child, this will all be over soon and youll thank me, he finished. What happened next, happened so fast that, afterwards, Abbie wasnt sure of the sequence of events. With the chiefs attention, fractionally, away from him, Draven pushed Abbie aside, at the same time drawing the Beretta from the back of her skirt. The chief fired once, the bullet smashing into the doorframe behind Draven. Draven brought the Beretta up, squeezing off a single shot. The 9mm bullet slammed into the chief, impacting right between his eyes and exploding from the back of his skull in a shower of blood, brains and bone fragments. As he fell, the chief squeezed off a second shot, which barely missed Abbie as Draven shoved her aside. Then Tabby was in the room, tending to Abbie, as Draven all but fell to the floor as the combination of pain and blood loss from his earlier wound finally caught up with him. He reached for Abbies hand, squeezed it gently, before he finally passed out. Hospital, 36 Hrs Later Ah, youre finally awake, said an unfamiliar voice, as a doctor stood over his bed. Apparently, said Draven, as the doctor leant over and took his pulse. What happened? He added. Youre a hero, detective, you saved President Elect Michaels daughter, its all over the news, added the doctor, pausing before he added. Theyre going to give you a medal. Great, thats all I need, said Draven, before he slumped back on the bed. When he finally fell back asleep, his dreams were full of Abbie and a future they could never have. As the pair strode through the plush surroundings people did double takes at the sight of Abbie. By the time they could react, she and Draven had already passed by. Someone had the presence of mind though to race over to the Chief's office to announce Darius and the girl! They're here! The Chief looked up from the mounds of paperwork he had on his desk while the buzz of conversation in the adjoining conference room got quiet. What?! He wasn't suppose to be bringing her back yet. Where are they? In the building, on THIS floor! Heading to the Chief of D's office! That led to a scramble as everybody made for the door. They had barely left when the muffled sounds of gunshots were heard. A tall man pushed through to take the lead even though there were shouts for him to stay back. The door to the office was part way open so he shoved it open and took a quick glance around the room. Abbie! he shouted as the girl ran to him and hugged him tight. Im home dad. Im safe. Draven saved me. Later.... A touch from something that was very soft and a whisper of Open your eyes was what woke Draven up again. The touch and whisper were both from Abbie whose smiling face was filled his vision. The room he was in was different from the previous one in that the other one was more ICU while this one was more like a hotel room. On the edge of the bed sat his Abbie and for the moment, they were alone. Before Draven could say anything, Abbie placed a finger on his lips. Let me go first, she smiled. You've been asleep for about the past two days. The doctors opened you back up to debride the wound and sew you up better. They said, and I quote 'Good job but don't ever do it again'. I guess I'm never going to be a surgeon... As she sat back a little, his eyes saw that she was wearing a simple jacket, blouse, skirt ensemble that was plain but somehow made her look gorgeous. He also noticed that she was letting her hair be loose and was wearing just a bit of makeup that enhanced her features. It was then that Draven realized that his Abbie had stopped being a girl and had become a young woman. There's going to be a ceremony in a couple of days to give you a commendation medal. One of the bright PR people decided it would be great if I presented it to you. I didn't fight too hard to get out of that assignment. She rolled her eyes at that and they both laughed softly. The Chief will probably be talking to you about the 'story' they are giving out about why the bastard did all of it. He wanted to hold me for ransom. It's better than saying 'we haven't a clue why the nut did it'. Our cover story is holding too. They had decided to keep as close to the truth about their time in the cabin as possible. Omitted were them falling in love and the glorious sex they had. Instead, it would be quiet nights watching DVD's or reading. Draven also had shown Abbie how to shoot so that explained her prints on the 9mm. Both of her hands held one of his and gave it a squeeze. I miss you... I didn't think it would hurt as bad as it does. I keep waking up at night because you aren't there. And I won't be able to sneak out to see you either. Starting tomorrow I Secret Service detail and they have no sense of humor. They will be either with me or just outside the door 247.... Suddenly there was a knock at the door. The pair had just enough time to pull their hands away before Abbies parents walked in. David Michaels was a politician who scared other politicians. Scaring them because when he said or promised something, he meant it. Or that he wouldnt do things just for the good of the party but would because it was the right thing to do. Or that he listened to the people instead of the money brokers. He was the type of politician who shouldnt exist in 21st century America but did. As he reminded everyone, he wasnt perfect or special. He was just somebody who grew up in Williamsburg and wanted to do the right things. Cynthia McDuff Michaels was just as intelligent and driven as her husband but disguised it well with the soft Virginia accent, blond hair, and lady-like manners she used. In private and amongst friends and family the Appalachia of her birth came out in both speech and attitude. When Cynthia wanted something, she got it but was also careful about what she wanted. She dearly loved her husband, as he did her, and would never do anything to hurt him or their daughter. Her main job was do her best to protect her family. Hey, Abbie said, slowly standing up. I was about to tell Draven that Im going to be homeschooled the remainder of the school year on account of my new bodyguards. We talked about this already my dear, her mother said in a soothing voice. It's only for a few more weeks and you can survive. She glanced over at her husband for support and was sadly disappointed. They were talking about having someone be in the bathroom with me when use it! Abbie stood and glared at her mother. The agents also would be wearing the standard suits and sunglasses so they would really stand out. At least Tabby made the effort at trying to blend in a bit. ...and we talked them out of it. They will just do a sweep and stand outside while you are in there. The young lady rolled her eyes and glanced at Draven. And wont anybody else in. I felt more free when you had me stuck in that cabin in the middle of nowhere. The last was said as Abbie looked directly at him and gave a wink. Im sure Detective Darius has had enough the MIchaels Roadshow for the time being, David Michael said, smiling and wrapping his arms around the females. At 62 he towered over his 55 daughter and 51 wife. We wont stay long so the docs can spring from here. My wife and I just wanted extend our gratitude to you for taking care of our daughter. It all could have turned out so much the worse except for talent and determination. When I heard that you were the one they inflicted my daughter on.... Before Abbie's mouth could open he already had his hand covering it. I knew they had made a great choice. I remembered your work on the Hibble case and how difficult that was. Then your military service, Well...I couldnt think of a better person to be her protector. Michaels knew about Dravens Medal of Honor of course. He did mention it because he some men didnt like to be known just for an award but for the man that earned it. He kept his awards in a drawer. Not because he wasnt proud of them but because they were just objects. His DSC was in a safe in the Pentagon because it was for a still classified op when he was in Delta back in the early 90s. That was before meeting his wife, becoming a lawyer and all the rest. You could make him Chief of Detectives? Abbie suggested. That way he would be out of the line of fire on the streets. I wouldnt do that to him sweetie. That kind of a job is politics and pushing paper. It would be like using a thoroughbred as a draft horse. Doesnt fit. He gave a nod at Draven. Get healthy and get back to work. Gotta earn your keep. The last was said with a nod and grin and got the same from Draven. As they turned to leave, Abbie broken away to give her love a kiss on the cheek. Then a whispered I love you and a louder Thank you. Then she was gone..... One Week Later Hidden from view, Draven watched as the press and other assorted dignitaries gathered in the room and took their places. A podium had been set on the small stage, the gathered reporters and television news crews jostling for position to get the best angles from in front of the podium, whilst the assembled VIPs took their seats on the stage behind it and in front of the dark blue curtain that was draped behind. He could see the chief of police, the acting chief of detectives, commissioner and head of the cities FBI branch all in their seats, as they waited for the show to begin. Hed been discharged from hospital two days after the visit from Abbie, with very strict instructions to take it easy for the next two weeks. After that, hed been called to a meeting with the chief and commissioner, questioned about what had actually happened at the cabin and in the chief of detectives office. Hed been cleared of any wrong doing, it had taken the FBIs computer monkeys less than twenty four hours to unpick the web of lies and false evidence the chief had planted linking him to the attempted abduction of Abbie. Once that was over, hed been sent home and told not to be late for his own award ceremony. Sitting at home in his apartment, hed found it almost impossible not to think about Abbie and the amazing time theyd had together. It hurt far more than hed thought it would, even though hed known their time together would be short. Getting drunk would have helped, because at least then hed be able to forget until he woke up the next morning, but the painkillers and antibiotics he was on meant that wasnt going to be an option. Knowing that hed see her at the award ceremony, that they would have to act as if nothing had happened, almost made it worse and hed been tempted to simply not go. He could have claimed his injury was giving him trouble, no one would have said anything. He didnt want, or need, the medal, anyway, it would just end up collecting dust in his desk. When he slept his dreams were full of Abbie, they time theyd had together and the life they could never have. He eased the curtain that hid him aside a fraction, hoping to catch a glimpse of Abbie, but she was nowhere to be seen. The Secret Service agents, on the other hand, couldnt have been more obvious if theyd been wearing bright neon green suits and carrying signs that said Hi, Im a Secret Service Agent. Not seeing her, he let the curtain fall back into place and turned away. Which was when he felt the hand on his ass, and heard a voice whisper, Hello sailor. He turned, smiling as he saw Abbie. What are you doing back here? How did you know I was here? He whispered, as she slid into his arms. His fingers moved to stroke her hair, to hold and caress her as if to imprint the memories indelibly in his mind, even as he realized she seemed taller than he remembered. I missed you, so much, he added, before he kissed her. I missed you too, she whispered, once their lips parted. I saw the curtain move, figured youd be hiding back here, she added. I dont have long, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum will be looking for me, but I wanted to see you, alone, she finished, before she gave him another kiss. I love you, he said, softly, as they parted, giving her another squeeze. I love you, too, she whispered, before she finally pulled back. She smoothed down her skirt and blouse, and he finally realized why shed seemed taller, she was wearing heels. She touched his cheek, softly, before she turned and was gone, slipping through the curtain and out onto the stage. See, here I am, safe and sound, she said, as she passed the nearest Secret Service agent. The mans expression didnt change, but he came over to the curtain and peeked around the edge, but saw nothing as Draven ducked back out of sight. The award ceremony seemed to go much easier, smoother, than Draven had expected, although he knew that was mostly because hed had those few precious moments with Abbie. It would have been so much harder without them, being so close to Abbie and not being able to touch or kiss her. When Abbie had draped the ribbon around his neck, shed given him a gentle peck on the cheek, which had been accompanied by what felt like a million flashbulbs going off at the same time. In fact the light had been so bright, that Draven had seen spots before his eyes for almost thirty seconds afterwards. Once the ceremony was over, he had stayed long enough to exchange a few pleasantries with David Michaels, as was expected, before hed finally left. Returning to his apartment, it still felt lonely, but at least he had those fresh memories of Abbie. Six Months Later Sighing heavily, Draven leant back in his chair as there was a knock at the door to his office. Hed been promoted to Detective Lieutenant a month or so after returning to duty, which meant he got to spend most of his days sitting behind a desk. Come, he called, as the door opened and Tabby Michaels entered the office. Thought Id pop my head in, see how youre holding up, said Tabby, as she took a seat in front of the desk. Shed seen Abbie a couple of days earlier, the young woman was holding up pretty good, but it was easy to tell that she missed Draven. That time, and distance, had done nothing to lessen the feelings she had for Draven. It was also easy to tell, that Draven still felt the same too. You still miss her, dont you? She added. She knew about the locket he wore, on the same chain as his dog tags, and she also knew what it contained. Its that obvious, huh? He asked, with a grin, as he stood and went across to the coffee pot on top of the filing cabinet. He poured two cups, carried both back to his desk and passed one to Tabby. He opened a drawer in his desk, took out a bottle of bourbon and added a small splash to each cup. Only to me, answered Tabby, as she sipped her coffee. She misses you, too, she continued, after a few seconds. Shell be back in town tomorrow, celebration rally for daddy winning the presidential nomination. You should go, she added, as she finished her coffee. I just might, he said, finishing his coffee before he stood and took his jacket off the hook on the wall. Come on, Ill walk you out, he added, before the two of them left the office. The Next Day The size of the crowd surprised him, but then again he knew it shouldnt have. After all, David Michaels was a local boy, born and raised in Willowburg, the ultimate definition of a Hometown Hero. Standing at the back of the crowd, Draven still had no idea why hed come. Just catching a glimpse of Abbie wouldnt be enough. He wanted to hold her, kiss her, take her in his arms and never let her go. The Michaels family came out onto the stage, David waving to the cheering crowd, his wife and daughter joining him. Draven pushed his way through the crowd, until he was somehow standing at the front. He saw Abbie, could tell the exact second she recognized him, because her face changed. She pulled away from her parents, jumped down off the dais and into his arms, holding him, kissing him even as a camera zoomed in on them and their image was emblazoned across the huge screen behind the stage. They broke apart, slowly, still holding each other, grinning broadly. I missed you, so much, he said, softly, as their foreheads touched. I love you, she said, her eyes shining. Without saying another word, hand in hand, they pushed through the crowd and were swallowed by the masses, neither of them looking back. They didnt see David Michaels place a hand on the Secret Service agents shoulder, stopping him from following them. Let them go, he said, as he watched them disappear. He knew Abbie had been unhappy for some time, ever since shed come back from her ordeal. At first hed thought it was because of the agents, or what she'd been through, but hed always suspected there was more to it than that. And now he knew why. Draven Darius might not be the man he would have chosen for his daughter, but he made her happy and he knew shed always be safe. And, at the end of the day, that was what mattered. Shell be happy, now, said his wife, as she came to join him. Thats what matters, she added, as she took her husbands hand. I know, he answered. When she went back to school Abbie was, for the most part, left alone by everyone. Mostly due to the fact that people didn't know what to say so said nothing. That and the imposing image of several Secret Service agents that followed her around. Abbie quickly gave them private nicknames like 'Lurch', 'Tweedledum' and 'Tweedledee' but kept them to herself. While she didn't like them, they were still just doing their job. Eventually the people who were friends opened back up to her but with the end of school fast approaching no one had much time for things. That suited Abbie just fine. She buried her nose into work to take her mind off of Draven. That brief meeting with him was bad because it brought everything to the surface again. It was good in that it refreshed all of the good memories she had had as well. Remembering when they made love was so vivid that Abbie swore she could smell him when she rubbed her clit to quiet orgasms in bed. That was the thing she most missed. Not the sex, although she would admit that it was blissful, but cuddling with him. Just laying in bed, touching and kissing, and enjoying the feel of their bodies... That was so perfect. When Abbie would wake up at night and not feel Draven next her were the times she couldn't help but cry. Not too much, but enough because of the feeling her soul was missing a piece. After graduation, Abbie had agreed to help her dad with the campaign a little. That involved some traveling but she was always happy to get back to Williamsburg but that was home to her. When Tabby stopped by Abbie was sitting in bed and doing some idle sketching in one of her books. She kept then under lock and key but they were private. Some people had diaries and she had this. Seeing Tabby, she had nearly leaped off of the bed and hugged her. They spent a little time talking about nothing and then.... Well, you'll be off to CalTech or MIT like you planned.... Tabby stopped when she saw the look on Abbie's face. You didn't get accepted? That's impossible. You were a shoe in for it. It's not impossible when you didn't even try, Abbie said softly and sighed when she saw the woman's incredulous face. It would have been a waste of time. My head... I wouldn't be able to focus on things very well. It doesn't help with all the nuttiness happening right now. Maybe next year when things have calmed down a bit. They both chuckled at that actually happening. With the conventions done, things were settling into the final campaign insanity. No one wanted to jinx it, but it was looking like David Michaels was going to get elected come November. The campaign people dearly wanted to get Abbie out there on the trail andor in front of the TV cameras. She was the perfect age for the youth vote, had a clean wholesome type background, a dynamite story with the attempted kidnapping, and was finally not looking like a 'frump'. They had collectively torn their hair out when Abbie had refused to do all the things they wanted, speechesinterviewsetc, and her parents backed her up on it. If she didn't want to, they were not going to make her do it. Abbie would do things like appear with them at rallies and maybe say a few words if an interview was done but not much more than that. The lack of her involvement didn't matter though but Abbie still back a bit of a hit. People liked her because she was 'normal' and legitimately nice. Except for the time she encountered some opposition's hecklers at an appearance. Not caring if she was on camera, Abbie gave them a 'Bras d'honneur' View and several other 'gestures'. That brought the house down with people cheering, to her embarrassment, her name. Quickly, Abbie became beloved by the voters was considered to be the Michaels's secret weapon. You looked like you were have fun out there, Tabby grinned, lightly punching Abbie's shoulder and getting a shy grin in return. Yeah...it was kind fun. Don't worry, I will be going back to school but just right now... My heart's not in it. She shrugged a little and glanced out the window. This was probably going to change too if her dad won. The Mayoral Mansion wasn't really a 'mansion', it was just a large house. The kind where Abbie could wander down the kitchen and get something for herself. The White House was more like a museum even in the family areas. She could never get used to a place like that. Maybe I'll take a few courses someplace just to keep active. God I miss his.... she whispered softly. Tabby wrapped an arm around the girl's shoulders. It'll get better. It just takes time.... A week later.... The noise in the auditorium was almost deafening. It was worst, if that was possible, than the political convention they had recently been at. If it wasn't for the flesh colored ear plugs she wore, Abbie knew her ears would ringing for days after this. Thank gods this was just going to be a 'stand, smile, wave' event so she really didn't have to do anything. Mom looked perfect, as usual, and looked the part that he would win in a couple of months. She could smile at knowing the person he was when he gave a speech was the same when the cameras weren't on. Her dad was just finishing his speech when her eyes stopped scanning the crowd because they saw something...someone very familiar. How...how did Draven get there... WHY was he there... He didn't do anything other than just stand there, looking at her. Their stare just only seconds but for Abbie it seemed like forever. Some many things flashed before her eyes... All the things that she had thought about, wished for, and then shoved in a box now burst open. What she didn't feel was the type of smile that have been missing for months, the one of complete jpy, appeared on her lips. A squeeze of her mom's hand before Abbie left go and walked forward, not seeing her dad's surprised stare, before stepping off of the stage and to the floor. Ignoring the stares of the people who were suddenly around her she pushed until there was her love before her. Without a second's thought. The pair embraced and kissed deeply before smiling at the other. With their faces on the jumbo screen and on TV screens around the country their secret was out. There wasn't any audio but Abbie's I love you was easily read from her lips. With that, they started to move through the crowd towards and exit. No so much 'move' as the crowd parted before them. When they reached Draven's mustang they both got in an sat there silently for seconds. Finally Draven said, Let's go. To which Abbie asked, Where? Anywhere. What'll we do? Anything. Forever? Forever. Abbie smiled and sat back as Draven started to car and they roared off into life. epilogue As expected, the media went wild about the surprising romance. Draven didn't have much family and Abbie's maintained a strict 'no comment' so the media couldn't get the details they dearly wanted. Some tried guesswork, aka making things up, or tried finding friends but no one who might know anything talked. They couldn't get anything from the couple because they had all but disappeared from sight. It wasn't until a couple of days afterward that the Michaels issued a notice telling the media, and everyone else, to Leave them alone. The command was quickly picked up by people all over the internet and country who tweeted, emailed, and called the various outlets to tell them to stop it. Somehow, the romance had touched a chord in the population. A few in the opposite campaign grumbled that it must've been a setup but they were quickly shushed. As for Abbie and Draven, they didn't have any idea of what was going on and wouldn't have cared if they had. Except for a phone call to her parents to explain what happened, they weren't talking to anyone but each other from their hiding spot at the cabin. There they made love, ate, slept, made love again, and just enjoyed the feel of their bond with each other. Sometime during it all, a new life was created that would make its appearance in nine months or so. Both were rather shocked at that surprise but the shock faded to joy and was followed by a small, quiet wedding. As to the rest of the story.... Well it wasn't a 'happily ever after' because it never is. That said, they had much more happiness than sadness and that's all they wanted.