开云体育

Cat and Scott

No Bottom

Part I? The Scene

That is a lot but that is good, gives us things to work with. I think what we are focusing on here most of all is a pair of people that love each other but due to circumstances things somehow end up downhill.[ I do agree.] ?I see Val not mentioning the miscarriage and how it is affecting here in order to protect Brian and I think Brian be doing to same with the thing with Sam. In the back of his mind he is worried that he has cheated on his wife and is trying to protect his marriage and family while dealing with the pain medicine and everything else. In the end they however see how much the other person is willing to sacrifice to protect them.?

I wouldn’t mind playing Sam. In my mind she is a good person but as you said has always carried a bit of a torch for her partner so that sorta stings knowing that he is happily married. I think the fact that there are some things he hides from his wife and not from her makes her have that little bit of hope that perhaps someday he’ll leave Val in spite of her actually iking the woman and knowing she is good for him? Her being the ultimate hero suits me, because Val and Brian have each other and she can be you know the badass that gets a promotion??

Sounds like a good outline. We can figure out any other twists as ideas come to us.?

I’m trying to figure out where to start. I thought it might be interesting to begin with Brian and Sam on a suspicious murder call.?

Either that or begin a day from bed to kids and Brian heading out to work(under some cloud).?

Here is the former...

Brian pulled the unmarked car in between two squad cars. He looked at Sam, his partner for two years, a pert, intelligent cop who’d worked her way up through the department. Sam was cute as a button and could pour on the charm at the drop of a hat. She’d been an excellent partner and the two had mastered the Good Cop Bad Cop routine. Even when he was feeling down she managed to bring out the best in his work. He was lucky and made sure she got the deserved praise when they filed a case.

Today was one of his bad days. His dour mood was punctuated with short answers and little information. Now that they were on the scene of a crime he could be counted on to be professional and on the top of his game, hopefully.

“Here we go,” he said to Sam as they exited the car and walked over to a cordoned off area. It was a vacant lot between warehouses.??

The lead cop on the scene, a good man named Hanson, filled them in on what they had discovered which wasn’t much.?

“The body was discovered at 6:30 am. A local jogger noticed the body from the sidewalk and notified the police.”

The body lay beneath a black tarp in the rough open space. He let Sam take a peek leaning over her shoulder. His stomach didn’t feel right and this wasn’t helping.

The body was female, perhaps late twenties.?

Cases like this never really got any easier. As a cop you learned to shut down your emotions, look at every case as just that. A problem that needed to be solved. If you took it personal, any of it, you were screwed. Sam’s first case had been the worst and something she would carry with her for the rest of her life, but just like everything else in this world, time healed all wounds, making it easier to deal with somehow.?

“Did she have any ID on her, anything we can possibly use to identify her with?” She questioned, glancing at the body. “She put up a fight, see?” She then pointed out motioning at the ripped fingernails. “Didn’t go down easy.” And that made her proud somehow. Knowing that in spite of the way things had ended that girl had fought for her life. It could also possibly mean that whoever had done this, was still showing proof of that on his body. Scratches perhaps? Hopefully something worse.?

“Judging by the outfit I think it’s pretty safe to assume she came down here for a run. Whether it be morning or late evening still remains to be seen.” Poor woman, the world was a dangerous place unfortunately. “Really makes you think right?” Sam knew that Brain’s wife was a runner herself. Things like that always tended to hit home harder somehow.?

Her stare widened at the expression on Brian’s face. She’d seen that look before. He knew something.?

He was so close she could hear something gurgle in his stomach.?

“I know who she is.” His tone remained neutral but some instinct made alarm bells ring. “She was my kids first grade teacher.”

He stood and turned away abruptly. “I want this block, five block radius canvassed,” he said to Hanson.?

“Done,” Hanson said stiffly. He’d felt the change in Brian too.

“I want the ME to give me a heads up when he is ready to examine.” He didn’t really say this to anyone, just walked quickly back to the car. On the way he pulled out his phone and spoke slowly into it.

When Sam returned to the car moments later Brian was leaning back against the door his head in his hands.

“Are you doing alright there?” Cases like this were never easy, but that was unfortunately part of the job. The fact that Brain knew the victim? Now that was something else entirely different.?

“I’m sorry, I know that this can’t be easy,” Sam then apologized as she moved to stand beside her partner. “Did you know her well?” Well enough to at least know whether they were any personal issues in her past, leads to follow up on??

“Considering the location I’m not hopeful that there will be any witnesses but who knows right?” When one door closes, another opens.?

“So any thoughts?”?

Brian shook his head. “I don’t like this. This murder...get in the car...you drive.”

He kept his right hand down by the door. It was shaking uncontrollably. Sam turned a corner and sped up.

“There was a murder two weeks ago. In Kent. Not far but out of our jurisdiction. The victim was a female just like this one. The MO looks identical. So far. The kicker is this. The first female victim's name was Angela Reyes. Not sure if you heard about it. Probably you did. Similar right? Well, she taught in the same school as Sam last year. The same grade level. They were friends.”

Brian coughed into his handkerchief, a dry raspy cough like an old man.

“As I see it, if Cap finds out, links the two then I’ll be out. It’s too close. Something smells. I’d do the same thing in his position. Maybe I’m reading something into this. It’s a little bit of a stretch. Yet, well, we’ll see what the coroner has to say.”

Brian nodded, Sam was right there for him. It felt good but the unknown was unsettling.??

“Once we get a firm time of death we can start checking the city cameras. I’m betting it’s out of town plates. It’s another shot.” Or a stolen car, he thought moodily.?

So the victims knew each other? That made it complicated and quite unexpected at the same time. Both women were of the same age, same type and they both worked as teachers, so that told them the killer had a type. Serial killer perhaps? But the fact that they knew each other? Now that changed it all up.?

“So you think this is personal? I mean the type of victim is obviously the same and if they hadn’t known each other we could just have concluded that the killer has a type, but the fact that they are friends. It just ties everything up and makes it more personal.”

“I don’t know,” Brian admitted. “It just seems coincidental. The worrisome thing is I have to report it and the captain will have to take that into consideration.?

Sam didn’t like this either and could see what Brian was so worried about. It sucked being the one left out of a case but he couldn’t help but wonder whether there was more at stake here. “We’ll just have to see what the coroner comes up with but I suppose we also have to figure out what else these women have in common other than being teachers.”?

Throwing her partner a thoughtful look Sam couldn’t help but note the way his hands kept on shaking. “You sure you are feeling alright Brain?”?

“No, I think I’ve got an imbalance, sugar or food. We need to hit up the taco stand.”

He gunned the cruiser. “One way or the other I think it is a safe bet we need to check on any of my wife’s friends that fall into these categories. I’m stuck with that job. Now I have a new worry and little to go on.”

开云体育

?Cat and Scott?????? No Bottom

Part 2 ? Home

Brian pushed open the door to his four bedroom house that sat near the ‘junction of the wealthy’ and ‘the just getting by’. The yard was large with thick grass that needed a cutting. Several large trees lined the sidewalk a sign the neighborhood was older and so were the homes. This one was in good shape. He was proud of it. Concern over the location had never been an overriding factor. Here the police presence was strong. ‘Bellamy Plaza’, the name of the wealthy neighborhood starting four blocks away, was just close enough to harbor those with not quite so stellar bank accounts.?

He parked in the drive behind Val’s and greeted Ginger at the door. Ginger was the family's Golden Retriever and always waited patiently for Brian’s arrival home.?

“Dad?” The voice was Heather’s, sweet and endearing. She was ten and so full of bounce and promise it broke his heart every time he greeted her.?

“Sweetheart,” He gave her a big hug. “How are you today.

“Same,” she said twisting away and yelling out to anyone who could hear, “Dad’s home!”

He laughed and walked into the kitchen where Val was busying with something at the oven. He went to her.

“What’s up hon?” He bent to kiss her on the cheek and dodged a stir spoon as it did an imitation of a conductor's baton into a pan on the oven top burner.?

“I love you too,” he said, skipping away from an impromptu love pat on her perfect bottom.??

His energy faded quickly as he slumped into a chair at the kitchen table. “Another day,” he sighed.?

He watched her make magic for a bit then asked, “Kevin in his room?” It was a silly question. He was always in his room.?

“I’m making a stew, so I hope you are hungry”, Val replied as she just about finished what she was doing. She was trying to get the family to eat more healthy but that was easier said than done. Especially with Brain keeping the hours he did. Today, he was home on time, but that wasn’t always the case.?

“Your son is in his room, yes. He came home with another bad test. I swear to god, I don’t know what is wrong with that boy recently. His attitude is really below par lately and not only here but at school as well.” It was frustrating. As sweet and loving as Heather was, as distant and aloof her oldest was.?

Finishing up at the counter, Val washed her hands and then headed towards her husband, wrapping her arms around him from behind. “Tough day?” How could it not be? With the job he had, all that darkness. “Your home now though and I made dessert. Your favorite.” So far for eating healthy. “You want to talk about it? “

Making her way to the front, she positioned herself on her husband’s lap, arms still firmly wrapped around his shoulders. “I still have some time before dinner is ready.”

“Ugh, enough with the PDA please,” Kevin grunted as he suddenly appeared in the kitchen and headed towards the fridge. “It’s embarrassing.”?

Brian chuckled. He was warmed as always by Val’s tenderness and her loving embrace. He felt a hint of pain in his back but was able to ignore it. The medication was a gift but he didn’t want to think about those circumstances now.

Instead he considered Kevin’s words and imagined he was still a young man with a heart that could be so strong yet so singularly minded. It was a phase. Some pushed beyond it and became a man. In his experience most did so. For other’s there would be no ascension to adulthood.?

They would forever be accountable to no one but themselves. Unloving, cold of heart and of a purpose calculating without feelings or sympathy for others. It was a cold place. Brian ventured into those thoughts on occasion to try and glimpse the purpose. Sometimes he found some answers or clues. Most times it only brought depression. Imagining life with no foundation other than what suited. It was a puzzle he worked and would never finish. Sometimes, sometimes he got enough to win the day and that made the exercise worth all the gruesome thoughts.?

“Kevin,” Brian studied his oldest with unwavering eyes.

“Dad,” came the reply, the tone full of scornful mockery.

“Imagine you came to a river.”

“笔濒别补蝉别!”

“The river is deep and runs swiftly. You would flounder, even the best of swimmers. But you had to cross. Then a man hailed you from a boat. This boat was lashed to a rope that stretched from one side to the other. The purpose of the boat to help those in need cross the river. But there was a price to pay.”

Kevin was listening now. This was a new story and Dad sometimes had good stories to tell.

You say, “Yes, I need to get to the other side. What price must I pay.”

The boatman, an older man but with powerful arms nodded and spoke, “You must give me your most prized possession.”

But you say, “I have nothing but the shirt on my back.”

Then others came and got on the boat. A woman with a child. She paid him with money. Another came, a man with two sheep. He gave the boatman a platter of lamb. Then others came and paid in their way until the boat was nearly full.

The boatman waved, “Come, I will show you what you have.”

He guided you to a spot. Then he commanded, “Grab the rope and pull as I do.”

In understanding you did so and the boat pulled away from the shore. The rope was heavy and drew blisters but it moved swiftly under the rhythm of two pulling hard.?

When you reached the other side the boatman waited while everyone unloaded. Then he said to you, “You have gifts you do not yet understand. Learn them well and those around you will find your help and cherish it.” As he spoke you shook your head sadly, “No I have not learned today.”

When you left the boatman and the wild river behind those who had crossed with you smiled and nodded at you. You had gifted them and they were thankful.

Kevin opened the refrigerator and looked inside. “That was a stupid story.” His words were measured, not said with haste or ridicule. He grabbed a bottle of soda and ran back upstairs.

Brian reached out with one hand behind Val’s neck and drew her close. He kissed her deeply. He felt the old arousal, her thighs warm against his.?

When he finally let them draw breath he sighed, “It’s many little battles right??

Kevin was a good kid. His heart was in the right place but he was also getting that certain age in his life where nothing was ever simple or easy and parents were basically your worst enemy. It did hurt a little but Val knew not to take it personally. He wasn’t her baby boy anymore. Her oldest. Him being born had to have been the greatest gift one could have ever given her and seeing the look on Brain’s face. That love in his eyes. They had been such a team from the start and they still were, though on occasion he too faced the wrath of a boy who was entering his teenage years.?

“He makes me feel old,” Val couldn’t help but sigh, reluctantly pulling away after that kiss, but resting her forehead against her husbands, eyes still closed, just relishing in the moment. “But he is a good kid, we raised him well, we have to trust in that I suppose.” It’s all they could really do right??

“I’m glad you are home by the way.” She then added, light smile on her lips as she cupped his cheek with her fingers. He always came home at the end of the day, but being married to a cop wasn’t the simplest of lifes. It meant having to miss your husband far more than a wife would have liked. So having him here now, before dinner with still the entire evening in front of them? Now that made her happy. Especially after that kiss.?

He nodded. His attention was on her even as his thoughts moved in circles. He needed to talk to her about the murder but... He didn’t want to spoil this. They didn’t always have time. He tensed in his seat holding his beautiful wife, the love of his life but the image in his mind was of Tammy her face twisted in death, Heather’s teacher from middle school. His stomach lurched. In the morning he’d talk to her. He put up the wall to shut it out. Val needed him and he needed her.

“You know perhaps we should continue this later on, when the kids have gone to bed and there is no risk in our PDA shaming our son.” She then suggested, leaning in for another quick peck on the lips. “Have ourselves an early night? Unless you are too tired of course.” Val knew that there were days when Brain was in a lot of pain, especially when a case was weighing down on him.?

He almost whimpered at her words. “I’m looking forward to it,” he managed placidly. He buried his head into her neck and squeezed her close.?

“I need you so much,” he whispered.?

“Don’t you know that you have me already? Always and forever right.” Valerie assured softly. She wasn’t quite sure what happened today but it couldn’t have been good. Pressuring him wouldn’t help. It would only make things worse and if she had learned anything over the years that they had been married, it was that if her husband needed to talk he would come to her in his own time and that was enough.?

They both heard the light clap of feet on the floor and knew it was Heather.

“Hey golden girl,” Brian said.?

“When’s dinner Mom?” It didn’t seem to bother her how they clutched at each other even as they worked to look more normal.

“Come here,” Brian beckoned.? He added Heather to his hug. “I love you both.”

“We love you too right sweetheart? Group hug.” If only Kevin would have been here as well, then things would have been perfect. Val however knew from experience that it wasn’t going to happen. So kissing both her husband on the lips and her daughter on the forehead, she managed to untangle herself and reluctantly got up.?

“How about you start setting the table sweetie and collect your brother. I think we can start eating fairly soon. There might even be dessert later on.” She then added, amused smile on Val’s face as she noted how excited her daughter seemed to become at that prospect. Ever the sweet tooth that one. Not unlike her mother.?

“Babe, you want to wash up before we eat?” She then questioned, glancing at Brain. “Or leave that for later.” Sure dinner was almost ready but there was still time for a quick shower if he wanted one. Then again most of the time they did share their showers. To preserve water of course … Or possibly because it was far more pleasant than doing it alone. This house came with a certain set of perks and that included a big bathroom. Not that Val needed luxury to be happy. It just came in handy at times.?

Brian smiled, “A shower, that must wait until later.”?

He flipped on the TV as Val moved to get things moving. He nailed the mute button as the screen filled with the face of a reporter describing the very murder he was investigating.?

“Unbelievable,” he whispered to himself.

“By the way, there is a grocery list on the fridge. If you need anything just add it, I’m planning on going tomorrow after work. This weekend is supposed to be sunny so I was thinking barbeque? It’s been a while.”

“Right,” Brian chirped from the couch. He watched the reporter’s lips move and could guess what she was saying. It will be a media day tomorrow. Would his boss ask him to stand in front of the city and say this might be a serial killing?”

After dinner Brian helped Val clean up. The kids had retired to their rooms to study or do whatever. He didn’t want to think about the future, only Val and what small way he could have a little time without stress. He teased her and grabbed at her playfully as they cleaned the table and straightened the kitchen.?

His troubles were his and it wasn’t fair. He would see to it that at least for tonight she would have everything he could give.

“About that shower,” he muttered into her hair. His hands played with the elastic on the back of her pants. “I’m feeling dirty.”

开云体育

?Cat and Scott?????? No Bottom

Part 2 extended ? Home

Valerie could always tell whenever something was troubling her husband. He was there, but he was also not there in a way. Preoccupied. It made her feel sad at times, for not being able to make it better for him. To chase away those demons that must have been haunting him. His life at times was so different, always dealing with death and darkness. Sure there was a sense of purpose there, but she couldn’t help but worry at the same time.?

Dinner went by without a hitch thankfully. Kevin was being his usual cheery self, but thank god that Heather still possessed that innocence that was oh so endearing and managed to distract them all. Little ray of sunshine that one. But pretty soon they were both upstairs leaving the clean up of course still to be done, not that Val minded. Brian never left her to her own devices, no matter how tired he was and she always appreciated that very much. They got to spend time together like this, doing normal things, so rarely, so when it did happen, Val enjoyed it as much as she possibly could.?

Another thing she very much enjoyed were those wandering hands of his, getting all touchy feely. They had been married for a long time, but there were moments, just like this when it felt like they were still those hormonal teenagers back in the day who were looking for any opportunity just to get some alone time together, preferably sooner rather than later.?

“Oh is that right? You feeling dirty huh?” She couldn’t help but smile, leaning back a little in her husband’s embrace and teasingly pushing her hips against his. “We can’t have that, can we. Better get you clean then. Sooner rather than later, I don’t want a dirty husband in my bed tonight.” Swiveling in his arms, she leaned back against the table and tilted her head a little so she could kiss him. “Now I think of it I’m feeling rather dirty myself? How about you check up on the kids while I make sure the water is warm? Make sure they can keep themselves entertained for a little while?”?

Brian bounded down the stairs. Both children were too busy to give him much time. Kevin needed a push to finish his homework while Heather had finished her’s before dinner. She was deep into some teen mystery whild Kevin had to be pulled out of an online PC game.?

He entered the bedroom. The lights were off except a glimmer of light coming from under the bathroom door. The thought of Val undressed always excited him. It’d been that way since they met. Now was no different and he hurriedly undressed himself and slipped through the door.

The humidity was rising fast inside the oversized bathroom. In one corner the tall glazed glass of the shower slash jacuzzi was steamed up. He could still make her out inside, her slender form unmistakable to his eyes.?

Inside water and mist rained down like in a tropical forest. She stood right in the middle unfazed by his sudden appearance.?

He approached and circled her waist with both hands. It was difficult to believe she was the mother of two children with that flat tummy. His hands were slick with soap that covered her.

“Dang girlfriend,” he moaned. He was rock hard against her back, the soap making him slide around like a polar bear on ice. “You are the sexyist thang!”?

He kissed her neck and her earlobe. One hand slipped up to fondle a firm breast. His other hand pulled her against him. The feeling was so good.

Hmm, this feels good,” Valerie sighed softly as she leaned more completely against her husband as he started touching her, planting kisses all over her already sensitive skin . It lit a fire in her stomach, in between her legs. There was no denying that she wanted more, wanted to feel the heat of his skin pressing against her, the warmth of his lips covering every inch of her skin but sometimes that anticipation was everything right. Pressing her behind firmly against his crotch, liking the way it felt, liking the way his body reacted to her even after all this time.?

“Please tell me you haven’t forgotten to close the door,” she then all but moaned, somehow finding that thought unbearable. That’s what having kids did to you. Made you get more creative, more resourceful. A quickie in the kitchen between chores, setting the alarm just that tad bit earlier in the morning, taking showers together. It of course didn’t mean that you couldn’t get interrupted. Thankfully the kids were getting bigger, not needing their parents around as much and Val was more than happy to take advantage of that.?

Reaching out with her free hand behind her so she could tangle her fingers through his hair and baring even more of herself Valerie couldn’t help but moan. This was exactly what they both needed now, what she needed. His hands all over her body. Grabbing his hand then, she slowly started to slide it across her stomach and lower still. Loving it when he touched her there, loving it when he could feel just exactly how much he still turned her on, even after all these years together.?

He followed her request. Felt her shudder, delighted he could please her. His fingers followed the uneven contours still guided by her. With his free hand he pushed the soap bubbles all over her upper body. He nibbled at her earlobe. Every touch brought a response. She stiffened then relaxed then almost seemed to falter. He held her up, his hand gentle, teasing. Softly he kneaded the folds of her need. Her hand no longer guiding but just resting on his arm.?

“Oh...I need you,” he said lustily. He felt the hot water roll off his hair and down his back. He looked down over her beautiful body, the neck and two crescents of her breasts. She stiffened again when he ran his hand around each perfect morsel. Below his fingers grew slippery from her passion. He let himself in casually, carefully, fingers gently searching for that special place. Then he withdrew and started over caressing the folds and penetrating ever so slowly.

If he could, this would never end. Tomorrow would not come and this love making continued until, until the end of time.

“Wife,” he stammered as his own need felt the pressure against her shift. His breath caught then released, eyes shut against powerful sensations.?

His hand gripped her breast tight, more so than he intended as a small, sharp stab of pain raced up his spine. It was a strange moment, pain and desire wrapped into such a tight space. The spike vanished as quickly as it had come leaving only a throb of anxiety in the back of his mind.?

He renewed his assault, fearful she knew, felt it too somehow. He would not share that. She had to put up with enough. Stop it, he begged himself. Later.

He put a hand to her neck up to her jaw and let her head swivel so he could taste her cheek and a hint of her lips.?

When they were like this, she always seemed to forget. Hard not to do when every touch, every carres, every kiss was perfect and wonderful and everything Val could possibly need. That was the upside of being married so long. Knowing exactly what the other person liked, no shame, no hiding away. Their bodies had no secrets for each other. There was no need.?

When they were like this Valerie almost felt carefree. It was hard not to worry about him. There were nights when she did like awake, wondering, worrying. His job, his injuries, the pain he struggled with. A well kept secret but she knew alright. Knew when he was aching, new when he was in pain and the hardest part was probably the fact that there was nothing she could do about it, could do nothing to ease that burden.?

Right now however, right here, Valerie had every intention of making it up to him, perhaps make it up to him later as well. The time shared between them was so rare, it was hard not to make advantage of it when the opportunity came along.?

“Husband,” she sighed, closing her eyes. A surge of heat settled into the pit of her stomach at all the wonderful things his hands were doing to her. It felt warm, it felt comfortable and oh so amazing.The way he kissed her, touched her. Hips, body moving forward, wanting more, falling in sync with everything he was giving her. Yet somehow knowing that it still wasn’t enough. Not until she could feel him deep inside of her, feel his body pressed tightly against her. In a way that was the biggest turn on for her. Feeling wanted, desired, needed even. To feel it all around her.

But then there was that slight hesitation. Something that changed, shifted, the way he held her just that little bit tighter, the way his breath hitched for the briefest of seconds, well hidden but enough to let her know nonetheless. But then he kissed her, turned her head a little so their lips could meet. Eyes trying to search his for the briefest of moments, questioning, silently asking whether he was ok. “Babe?” Not wanting him to stop but worrying about him at the same time.?

The query if it was one didn’t slow Brian down. He moved, with Val knowing the destination from practice. You know what they say about practice. The corner of the jacuzzi offered a nice cradled seat. Planned occasions like today a waterproof gel pad cushion was used.

Nestled into the corner Val was in a good place legs wide and welcoming. He allowed her to pull him down, and he got on his knees. Water splashed and gurgled around them the spray from above softer here. He leaned into her working every inch of her with his tongue. He rose higher and pushed forward with his hips. She welcomed him in with a spasmodic shudder that put a thrill in him. His own reality warped for a moment as contact made this particular moment stand out.

“You...are...perfect.” It came out like a chant or a prayer.

He pushed deeper inside. A thought crept unwanted that he was glad to be full and hard. The medication he took sometimes made this experience excruciating inglorious. He had pills for that problem as well. They had pills for everything these days.

Those thoughts passed by like the wind as they were meaningless in this time. He rocked back even as he felt her urgency to expand on the rhythm. He acquiesced moving his hips faster.

Brian engaged her passion in another of his favorite moments when he gathered her ankles and held them apart above the fray and began to pummel her with increased voracity.

His heart pounded in his chest but the exercise superseded such things as respiration or vertigo.

He looked down at her and loved what he saw. She was in such a good place, so eager and welcoming. It made him so proud to be her choice. He was hers and that would never change.

This was crazy, he was driving her insane, every move of his hips deep and deliberate. Fire in its purest form and she just couldn’t get enough of that. Valerie arched her back, thighs tightening around him, moaning against his mouth, every time they moved together. Flexing her muscles, writhing below him, raising her leg to pull him in even deeper. More, no matter what happened, she always seemed to want, need more. How did he do that and did she even want to know, especially when he was making her feel like this. Forgetting everything around her.

That was really all that mattered. Skin touching skin, his chest pressed tightly against her own, sending shivers down her spine every time they moved. Hips grinding against each other, urging for completion. Just feeling him like that was enough to make her sigh his name in between kisses. Knowing that he wanted her, needed her as much as she did now. Even though it was torture, it also felt wonderful , felt real. And she needed that as well. Needed to know that after all those years of being married, he still wanted her, still needed her like this. Not just like the mother of his children, like a wife, but also like a woman.

Her free hand slid around his shoulders, slowly stroking back and forth. Feeling every curve, every muscle. Feeling him everywhere. This was what she wanted, what she needed and through it all she still couldn't stop kissing him. Couldn't stop reaching for him. Sweeping her up in the tide of him, pulling her under and along until all she knew was the rhythm of his hips, the waves of heat and want and pleasure each shift washed up through her.

It wasn’t soft, it wasn’t gentle, but it was real, it was raw and it was honest. Val wasn’t a romantic, she didn’t believe in things like that. Love was painful at times, it could lift you up and it could destroy you. The love she had for Brain was real. It wasn’t a game. It had never been that way. She loved him with all her heart, every single aspect of him. That primal part, it made him who he was, the person she had fallen in love with and moments like this, while not sweet and tender, they were real and honest. He needed her just like she needed him and that translated in every move they made, every thrust, every bite and every scratch. She had wanted to feel this needed, this desired and sure, she would probably be all kinds of sore tomorrow but that was so worth it. “God babe, I love you so much.”

Sometimes things went off just right. The timing, luck or maybe a little programmed training from years of practice. Whatever it was worked out just fine as the fires in them both seemed to blaze in the same moment. They made noises, a grunt or whimper. Muted with the reminder that little ones still stalked the planet above. All the preparation and play gathered into a final breath of violent crescendo. This was being alive. What shared spirit was meant to produce. Well, it sounded good. It felt even better.

His reactions settled in lesser waves than hers but it didn’t matter. He knew she was 'in the moment' and not disappointed. Her uncontrolled shaking slowed as he tried to breathe air into his lungs. The memory of the moment came back. He’d felt her pulse inside, a grabbing that intensified at the finish. Why he thought of this thing after didn’t really make sense to him. Maybe it was just really cool.

He gave her a moment to collect. It was at this time that she loved his attention, and he always tried to do so. He collected her in his arms and hugged gently, his face buried in her neck. He felt her heart pound, her gasps for air. Oh yes, he’d gotten her good. He smiled into her neck.

Val recovered slowly as he pulled her to her feet. With one hand he reached for the soap and pushed some into his hand. He began to rub her back and shoulders.

“Hey woman, that was something!” His voice came out husky and low. He released the arm that still hugged her and bathed her all over.

“You are so damn sexy!” Satisfied he’d gotten every square inch he rubbed up against her in another embrace. There was no better way to apply soap in his thoughtful opinion.

“Hey husband, it sure was” Val couldn’t help but tease, still very much locked up in that wonderful, loving bubble of their own. These were moments that she truly cherished. The kids were truly the best thing that had ever happened to them. But there were times, when it was just the two of them, being like this. It made her feel young again. Not that they were old, but life hadn’t been easy and that often took a toll on them both.

“You know, I think we should go away for a few days. Just you and me, I think it would be good for us,” Valerie suggested while they were washing each other, water rinsing them both down. “Pick a time that works and just go. The kids can stay with Nat and I think we need it.” She needed it and was pretty sure Brian did as well.

Brian purred in agreement.

“As for me being sexy, thank you for making me feel that way, even now.” Having kids did change your priorities, the focus being more on the desire to be a good mother instead of being a sexy wife. He always made her feel that way though, and that’s why Val tried her bestest to please him. That included keeping in shape and doing date nights, spending evenings together as a couple, not just parents.

“Now how about I go see what the kids are up to and turn them in for the night, so we can have an early one ourselves?”

“Well put some clothes on,” Brian said with a laugh.

开云体育

?Cat and Scott?????? No Bottom

Part 2 extended final ? Home

He fell on the bed and closed his eyes. Val’s request about a vacation had struck a nerve. It brought back all that he’d pushed to the back of his brain. He felt miserable. He didn’t want to give her the news about Tammy’s murder. He certainly didn’t want to confide with her about a possible connection with Angela’s murder. She was a smart girl and might figure it out on her own. It was a possibility they were connected. He wanted to wait until morning. Let her have a good night's rest.?

Brian thought about a vacation. That would be good. To be alone with Val for a couple days. What heaven. He wanted to make it happen. But this murder needed to be resolved. Let’s just focus on the beach and a messy bed.

Putting the kids to bed? really wasn’t that hard. After getting dressed in her nightgown, Valerie first headed towards Heather’s room. Making sure she washed up, had brushed her teeth and gotten her usually bedtime story. Kevin was even easier. It was mostly making sure that his homework was done and that he didn’t stay up too late afterwards.?

Once that was done she headed to the kitchen, making sure that everything was prepped for breakfast and that her bag for skill was all packed and good to go. Mornings were usually so hectic and Val on occasions loved to get a run in or go for a swim in the local pool.?

After that was done, it was straight towards the bedroom. Brushing her teeth, making sure her hair was dry, putting on some lotion? before eventually crawling into bed next to Brain. “Will you be heading out early tomorrow? I’d like to squeeze in a morning run before waking up the kids. I haven’t been able to get any time in all week because things at school have been hectic but I want to try again tomorrow. It always gives me this awesome buzz.” She questioned, cuddling closer under the sheets.?

He wanted to say it was a good time to just grab the kids and go for an extended visit to her parents house in Colorado. He hugged her in return and ran his nose along her neck. The memo said a happy wife makes for a happy life. His life didn’t get the memo.

Instead, he realized he couldn’t put it off any more regardless of what a shit heel it made him out to be.

“Valerie.” He circled her body with his arms not wanting to lose this wonderful night it had been. Focus on had been. He felt her stiffen as he knew she would.

“Tammy Goodson was murdered earlier today.”

He waited, paused, flexed his muscles as if expecting anything.

“Wait? What?” That was unexpected. How did they get from lying in bed together and talking about going on a holiday to this all of a sudden? “What do you mean, she’s been murdered? I just saw her a couple of days ago and she was fine.” Deep down Valerie of course knew that she was talking irrationally now but Tammy Goodson had been a woman she’d known. A woman she had worked with. They hadn’t been close friends, but they had known each other and that hit close to home.?

“We think she was out jogging.”

Sitting up a little straighter, she tried to get a grasp of the situation. Not understanding why Brain hadn’t told her straight away. Not quite understanding how this had come to be.?

“Tammy was a mother like me? She had just gotten married, I don’t get it.” There were times when they did in fact jog together. And now she was gone, murdered? How was that right? They were normal people. This wasn’t? a movie, this was real life.?

“Val, this is the vital part that I need to tell you, She was killed in the same manner as Angela.”

“Angela?” No, this was too much. Angela had been a teacher as well. Again someone Valerie had known. They had passed each other at a conference once or twice, talked on the phone. This was hitting way too close to home and Valerie wasn’t sure how she was supposed to deal with it all.?

“No, this is too much. I can’t do this. I need some air.” It wasn’t exactly the same as an anxiety attack, but it did get to her, felt like the walls were closing in on her. It was too much. Brain was speaking the words and they did not make sense.? It wasn’t something she wanted to hear. “I can’t breathe in here,” Valerie then announced before getting out of bed and heading outside. There was a swing, under a tree in their garden where she always went if she needed to think. It was far too cold right now, but somehow Val didn’t care. She just couldn’t grasp this situation now.?

Brian steeled himself to not rush after her. One benefit of marriage is you did find out little things about your partner along the way. One thing he knew, it was best to give her space when something emotional was hitting her.

Countless times he’d had to deliver bad news to fearful citizens in his line of work. He never got used to it, but he did try to learn the best techniques in how to conduct himself under those harrowing circumstances.

He tried to stay above the emotion, keep a level head. Yet the thought of Val hurting made him weep. He could hide this side of him, he blamed his mother, of course. He was smart enough to know the release that came soon after. So for a few moments he stayed in bed and allowed his hurt to subside.

He went to the bathroom and cleaned up. His face looked older, haggard. He brushed his hair and tried a smile. The mirror didn’t break. A good sign.

Brian slipped on a robe and stepped out into the back yard. The brace of cold rooted up his legs and made him shiver. It was too cold to be out long. He found her by the big maple on the community swing. He sat next to her and put his arm around her shoulders.

She shouldn’t have run away but sometimes Val needed that time to process. To gather her thoughts. Knowing that there was something happening that she had no control over. How was she supposed to protect her family like that? This was their personal bubble all of this was invading. The dark side of Brain’s life and it wasn't even his work oozing through now. It was school, it was … what was it really??

“I’m sorry I ran away. I know this isn’t your fault. It just hit really close to home and I wasn’t sure how to react to that.” Resting her head against his shoulders, she hiked up her legs, cradling her knees. “I’m not even sure what I’m supposed to do here. I don’t think I’m supposed to do anything but I’m scared of what it means.”

“It’s okay,” he said, hating the sound of that.

Reaching out with her hand she took hold of Brain’s and linked her fingers with his. “Do you think … I mean, are you worried that …. “ If he was worried then so was Valerie and she didn’t like that feeling. “Is this some kind of serial killer or something?” She watched the news, read the paper. How could she not worry about those things.?

“We don’t know yet.” Brian used the proverbial WE trying to distance himself from what was becoming very personal very quickly.?

“I’m sorry, I’m just emotional and hormonal and I’m late and all of this is just hitting me way harder than it’s supposed to. I just don’t want our family to get hurt, don’t want you to get hurt and I’m so afraid that will happen.?

“First, let me explain a couple things,” Brian said “I just found all this out today. I didn’t want to just come home and throw this on you right before dinner. Then you...er had other plans as well and I was thinking, let her get a good night’s rest. There is no good time to tell you honestly. I should have waited until morning.”?

He paused, disturbed by his own words. They didn’t sound comforting or informative.?

“I see a pattern in these two murders. You need to know because the media will be all over it and blasting warnings over the dumb tube TV. Friends at work will be upset. Father’s of teachers, husbands, well you get the idea.”

Brian got to his feet and pulled her up into his arms. He got under her legs and cradled her in his arms like on their honeymoon. He took her inside and sat her on the couch in the living room. He sat down next to her holding both of her hands in his.

“I don’t know if this is a serial. The Media might not figure it out. Right now it is just a guess on my part. We are waiting on the autopsy.”

“Listen, I don’t want you going jogging. Let me figure this thing out first. Depending on how things go I might want to send you to your Mother’s.”

Valerie was no idiot. She could connect the dots. Even if Brain was not trying to worry her. Both women had been teachers. Both had been out and about jogging and both had been killed the same way. It meant that there had to be some connection there. So they were either talking about a serial killer or it was personal but how likely was that.?

Val knew that she fitted the patron and that did worry her to an extent. She was more worried about her children though, her family. She was worried about Brain and what it would do to her.?

“The media will figure it out. I mean if I did, they will as well.” There really was no doubt about that in Val’s mind.?

But then of course he had to say the one thing she didn’t want to hear or do for that matter. “I won’t go out jogging, I promise,” That was an easy compromise to make. The other thing however. Not so much. “But I’m not going to my mother. I’m not leaving you or my house so that is not going to happen. You can’t force me Brain.” That was one thing Valerie wasn’t going to compromise about. .?

Brian held back his concerns and just held her. “I’d like to take you to Destin again.”

Destin was where they’d met and kindled more than just a childhood friendship. Their families had been friends forever. The Dads had been college pals and done all kinds of things together over the years. Brian hadn’t seen Valerie since they had been young teens. On the trip to Destin the two families had shared condos side by side. Valerie and Brian were both just starting college and were on spring break.??

He kissed her hands, “Come let’s try and get some sleep.”

“I’d love to go to Destin. In fact, I’ll go anywhere with you, as long as you promise not to ship me off.” Valerie was more than happy to agree to that. Destin held a lot of great memories for them both. That had been such a good summer. Just the two of them. Her parents would love to come down and babysit. It was exactly what they needed. But with the jobs they had and the responsibilities? It wasn’t always feasible.?

“And I love you, marrying was like the best thing I have ever done,” She then added, cupping his face and leaning in for a kiss. “Let’s go to bed.”

开云体育

Cat and Scott

No Bottom

Part 3? Media Maze

Brian awoke with pain. His lower back was telling him it was time for another pill. He checked the clock. It was 4:45. That was enough sleep he judged. They’d gone to bed early after all the commotion about his confession. He looked over at Val. She was still sleeping. Good for her. He tried to lay back down but his back wasn’t having anything to do with it.

He slipped out of bed and hunted down his lock box. It held a Rutger .45 some ammunition and a large vial of Percocet. He’d had to take the powerful opiate after an accident. He’d gotten better and had withdrawn from the medication. The pain eventually came back. His prescription had long ago run out. He was able to gain a new one through a Doctor he’d befriended.

He didn’t want the Captain to know he was back on the medication. Policy was very stringent when it came to the use of opiates. He would be put back on a desk with light duty until he’d been cleared. He’d gone through that procedure and it had nearly driven him crazy.

Brian had to stay away from booze which wasn’t a big deal. He wasn’t much of a drinker anyway. What he did have to worry about was the once a year mandatory checkup. He was only a month and a half away from facing the cop doc. He’d have to wean himself off soon or face back pain and withdrawal at the same time. Not today thank goodness.

He went to the bathroom to get ready for the day.?

Val woke up to an empty bed. It was still early. Way too early for the kids to get up out of bed. Part of her just wanted to roll over and forget about the world for just a little longer. It was tempting, but also not really feasible. Not with everything Brain had told her. So rolling over a few times, she eventually gave up and got out of the bed.?

Hearing water running in the bathroom it was pretty easy to put two and two together so Valeria just headed for the kitchen instead. Seeing that a run was out of the question for the moment she just figured that getting an early start at breakfast would be exactly what was needed. Go all out for a big change. Eggs, bacon, some waffles and pancakes maybe. Now that was something she had control over.?

By the time Brain eventually appeared in the kitchen, a pot of coffee was already simmering in the corner and delicious scents were invading the room and the rest of the house. “Hey, babe, did you manage to get any sleep at all? I felt you tossing and turning all night. What do you want for breakfast?”?

“Slept great,” Brian lied through his teeth. He had gotten some sleep so it wasn’t a complete fabrication.?

He walked over gingerly and accepted the offered coffee. He kissed her on the cheek then settled in his chair at the table.

“You went bonkers creating this spread.” He helped himself to a little of everything. The meds did better on a full stomach.?

He checked his watch. Then his phone buzzed. He pulled it out of his jacket pocket. Also inside his jacket she could see his department issued Rutgers in a shoulder holster.

It was a text from Sam. [Captain wants to see us ASAP!] He sent a reply and put the phone away. He checked his watch again. It was 6:15.?

He stood looking down at the wonderful feast and cursed the Captain under his breath.

“I gotta go dear.”

He hadn’t slept great but she wasn’t about to bust him for that little white lie. Last night had been pretty big for the both of them and Val couldn’t deny being worried. Waking up from the most terrible of nightmares. She just had this feeling. A feeling that something horrible was going to happen. It was rather silly. She couldn’t predict the future after all. But could hardly come out and say that now.?

“Alright, just be careful you hear. And take something with you to eat. Call me this afternoon?” She didn’t want to say it in so many words but hearing his voice, that would help. As the wife of a cop you learned to live with everything that entailed, but that of course was easier said than done.?

Captain Ray Reynolds sat at his desk phone to his ear and held up a hand as Sam and Brian entered his office. Lieutenant Michelle Peters, their direct superior stood near the Captain a look of busy attention on her face.

“Yes, yes and YES!” Reynolds said into the phone. “I want to be notified the moment he finishes.”

The Captain put the phone down and glared at the two detectives. “Sit,” he commanded.

Both sat down exchanging quick looks.

“I read your report. Very interesting. Brian I didn’t realize you had some attachment to the Reyes murder.”

Brian nodded. “I only had a passing knowledge of Angela Reyes as a teacher. I had nothing to do with the investigation as it wasn’t in our jurisdiction and I had no pertinent information.”

“It’s a little pertinent now don’t you think?” The Captain huffed.

“There really is no connection there Captain,” Sam found herself interjecting. “So there was no reason to make a note of it in the report. If it would have changed anything we of course would have followed the right procedure.” She could tell that the man was on edge and when he was like this, pushing his buttons was not a smart thing to do. Not only that but her partner wasn’t* really acting like his usual self either and she really didn’t want to get thrown off the case here.?

“All that information is in the report. We just started the new investigation yesterday.” Brian kept his voice normal but his head was about to explode.

Lieutenant Peters intervened, “Cap, how do you want us to proceed?”

Reynolds turned on his junior officer, “Find out who is killing these women. We need more information from the autopsy. I want you two over there ASAP! Gregory is going to lead the autopsy himself in about an hour.” He pointed his finger at Sam and Brian.

“We’ll be there,” Sam nodded. Right now they didn’t really have much to go on, so hopefully the autopsy would give them something more to work with.?

“Anton is a good guy,” Brian offered.

Reynolds glared at his senior detective. “If this goes down as I suspect it will, the FBI will have to be called in. But before that we will have a news conference with the media this afternoon at 2. Brian you will need to work up an information kit to get my PR guy working on it when you can.”

“驰别蝉蝉颈谤.”

“Cap,” Peters said, “Brian knew both women. He is in the best position to give you all the direction you need.”?

Brian appreciated his boss' running interference but it didn’t quell his rage at the Captain.?

“Of course,” The Captain relented. “I am sorry about what happened Brian. Please give my condolences to the families.”

“It’s been taken care of,” Brian stifled a sarcastic tone. His anger passed like a fog. Thankyou Michelle he thought.

“We’ll work on that kit in the meantime and head out as soon as we know something more of the autopsy,” Sam agreed with a nod as she got out from her seat. “Hopefully that will give us something more to work with and give the public.” No info and no leads, that usually reflected badly back on the entire unit and the public out there judged harshly. The victim’s family deserved more than that.?

“We’ll get the guy Captain.”

开云体育

Cat and Scott

No Bottom

Part 3? Media Maze

Brian asked Sam to drive to the morgue. He needed to get his thoughts in order. He pulled his phone and dialed a number.

“Hello,” This is Detective Perry from the 20th precinct. I need information on the Angela Reyes murder. Can you tell me who is the lead?”

“Yeah, okay, thanks.”

Brian dialed another number. It picked up on the first ring.

“Hello Brian.”

“Hey Darrell. I’m lead on the Goodson murder. We think there may be a connection.”

“I heard about it. Sounded similar from the sketchy report I got,” Darrell said.

“Want to get together and compare notes?”

“Sure, how about an hour ago?

Brian chuckled. “Headed to the Medical Examiner right now. Will have more info soon. You free this afternoon? I could use a copy of your file.”

“I’ll have it sent over. I might be free after 3. Got a court date today.”

“Call me when you get out.”

“Roger that.”

Brian sighed and tapped the phone on his knee. “That’s a good break for us. Darrell and I go way back. He will do everything he can to help. He is going to send us his file on the Reyes murder. We need to review that before we turn in that packet for the Captain and his PR guy.”

“It’s about time someone was on our side for a change. I don’t know, I’m just not getting a good vibe from all of this. This case there is something about it that doesn’t settle well with me.” Sam admitted. “I mean the lack of leads, the choice of victim. They have things in common, but most of it doesn’t make any sense.” There was no typical patern here and that bothered her.?

Brian’s phone rang and he jumped. “Shit, Hello?”

“Oh hey Lieutenant what’s up?”

“Sure, Of course. Yes Sam is with me.”

“The Captain is going to have a stroke.”

“Will do.” He hung up, again.

“The lieutenant wants us to give her information from the M.E. as soon as we have it. Like we were going to keep it to ourselves. Cap must be hounding her.”

“I think the guys up top are pressing her for leads.” There was always a lot of pressure, but when they were talking of a serial killer? Now that was an entirely different ball game. It made people scared and they couldn’t have that in their city.?

“I try to ignore it. At the end of the day it won’t change how I do my job. We ought to find the killer and that’s exactly what I plan on doing.”

开云体育

Cat and Scott

No Bottom

Part 3? Media Maze ..continuation

They both entered the autopsy room and noticed Anton near a trolley with a corpse covered by a white blanket.

“I was expecting you,” Anton chirped merrily. “Hello Sam. You are the peach of the department my dear. You know with those looks and your outstanding record you could make Captain.”

“Afraid I can’t say the same about you when it comes to the looks department Anton. It more closely represents a sour lemon or something. Not a taste you like to have in your mouth,” Sam threw back with an amused smile. The man could take it. After all if you threw around banter, you had to take as good as you gave.?

Anton chuckled. He shrugged his shoulders. “Hey, just saying.

Anton Gregory was a top-notch ME. He had a sense of humor that was somewhat extreme considering what he did for a living. Overweight, short with thinning hair he wasn’t very imposing. His jovial bombasity never failed to lift Brian’s mood.

He moved to the body and pulled a Mic down from where it hung from a swing rod from the ceiling. “This is Anton Gregory the date is March 3rd and the deceased is presumed to be Tammy Goodson. Her body was found,” He looked at a clipboard in his free hand, “at approximately 7:45 am yesterday morning which would make it March 2nd.”

He stated the location, the names of the officers first on the scene and how they described the position of the body. The citizen who initially called in the report confirmed that was how they found the victim.”

Anton pulled back the sheet to reveal the body. Both Brian and Sam leaned in to get a better look.

“Pretty girl,” Anton noted. Then he turned the mic back on. “Contusions obviously about the face and neck.” He pulled a handheld magnifier from his coat pocket. It had its own light source which he activated. He bent in close to look at her upper body.

“It appears the attacker bruised her breasts as well. By the color I’d say he abused the body after she was dead.” He looked carefully at her arms then down to her pubic area. It seems he violated her vulva and interior labia majora and labia minora. I don’t see any residue or other indications anything was left behind. It doesn’t appear to have been done violently. Merely exploratory. I’ve examined her clothing which had been partially torn away, either by a knife or something sharp like a razor. I haven’t found any foreign trace yet.”

He turned off the recorder. “From what I can see it looks like strangulation. I’m going to make some incisions around her neck to make sure.”

After several minutes of careful probing and cutting he nodded. “Indeed, she was murdered by strangulation. From the marks on her neck it’s possible he was wearing some kind of thin-skinned gloves, either surgical or otherwise.”

Anton turned the recorder back on. Gave the description of the wounds and then continued with her legs and feet. He found no other marks or contusions.

“It doesn't look like she struggled at all. I’d say she died in an unconscious state.”

“So she probably didn’t see him coming, or she trusted him. Considering the hour however and what she was doing at time I would say we go with door number one.” Why else wouldn’t she struggle? The only reasonable answer to that was that she hadn’t seen him coming.

Probably grabbed her from the back, started struggling with her until she lost consciousness. What does the toxicology report say? Any needle marks?”

“He may have used a stun gun”, Anton replied to Sam. “No needle marks but I found a pair of possible burn marks on her right rear shoulder.”

Brain glanced at Sam then back at Anton. “Can you confirm what you have seen is similar to the strangulation of Angela Reyes?”

Anton shrugged, “From what I know of both victims' autopsy I’d say they were almost identical. It does appear that the violation committed against this person was slightly less vigorous. But that is it. Let me do some more tests.”

He used UV lighting to study the body but found nothing.

“Blood is being checked. I'll know something about that maybe by tomorrow.”

“Well, that’s that,” Brian muttered. Call in the Feds. Hell! Thanks, Anton.”

“Just doing what I love so much,” Anton replied cheerfully. He covered the body with the sheet.

“Pity. Hey Brian, What's the safest place to hide a dead body?”

“顿耻苍苍辞.”

“Page 2 of Google search.”

Brian sighed, “A computer joke Anton? Really?”

Back in the car Brian fumed, “A damn serial! Right here in our midst dammit! Geez, call the Lieutenant.”

Brian felt light-headed. They didn’t have a damn thing on this guy.

“If it is, this investigation will be taken out of our hands.” Sam noted as she reached for her phone and called their boss. “It also means that time is essential now. Who knows when he will strike again.” It meant that the public needed to be aware. That they needed to know what was going on. The sooner the better. She wasn’t a big fan of the Press, but they had their uses.

“Maybe not taken, but we will lose the lead,” Brian conquered.

“That’s basically the same is it not?” Sam argued. She really didn’t want to be the glorified errand boy but knew that if the feds took over that was going to be the case without a doubt.? They did all the ground work while they took off with all the glory. Not that that mattered much to her. Just making the job was done, the killer caught and most importantly no more victims.?

Brian stepped through the process with Sam. “So he stalks them for an indefinite amount of time and figures out a good place, a quiet place to jump them. Hits them with the stun gun, strangles them then molests their dead bodies. What a sweetheart. This guy is itch’n for a bullet.”

“That means he has a lot of time or a job with very loose hours, a very easy schedule to work around.” That seemed the most likely. “There has to be an underlying reason why he is targeting these women specifically. They have a lot in common so he is going after a specific type.” They needed to figure out what made him tick, what he was all about. That most of all and the only way to do it was to figure out his MO. If they managed to do that, maybe they figure out the next step?

“Ok, back to the office, type this up and give it to the PR guy, whatever his name is? Murphy or Alex?”

Back at the office they typed up a quick report and got it to the Captain. He scanned it, asked a few unrelated questions then told them good job.?

“The Presser is at 2pm, don't be late.”

Carter’s report about the first murder of Tammy Goodson was in the system and Brian opened it up on his computer.

“I got it,” he told Sam. “I’ll forward you a copy.”

He scanned the report looking for anything unusual. Angela had two kids, hell, a boy and a girl, eleven and twelve. He rocked back in his chair. “This bastard is going down,” he muttered under his breath.?

Upset as this was he picked up the phone and called Valerie. There wasn’t going to be a better time. “Hey, it’s me.”

“Hey, saw the newspapers this morning.” Val’s voice resounded through the phone. She was clearly outside at the moment and on the move. She knew from experience what this meant. They wouldn’t be seeing a lot of her husband in the weeks to come.?

“Yah, working it. I’ll see you tonight. I’ll let you know if I’m running late. You know the procedure.”

“Yeah, I know. Don’t work too hard and make sure you eat.” That wasn’t going to happen but Val hoped that he would try nonetheless.” I love you, be careful you hear.”?

“Love you too.” He hung up the phone. She was his rock.?

City Hall was always a mess. Today it was chaos. The media had been given a heads up about the news conference and squads of trucks and vans were parked everywhere.

Inside things were better. They could use a side entrance and the halls were calm. In the prep room the Captain stood with his PR guy and the Mayor. An intense meeting was being held.

Two men approach. “Hell Sam, Feds.”

They both wore black suits, looked to be in their twenties.

“Jasper and Booth,” the first man said.

They could have been interchangeable, Brian thought. Out loud he said, “This is detective Perkins and I’m Perry. Good to see you,” he lied.

“Just flew in from Oklahoma. Long flight,” the one named Jasper said.

“Tough,” Brian agreed.

“We were briefed an hour ago. Anything new.”

“Not that we know of,” Brian said.

The Captain ended his heated meeting with the Mayor and rushed up. “I see you people have met. Thanks for the brief Detectives. We’ll get going here in a minute. The Mayor will start off, I’ll step in for a minute with the details. I’ll introduce you both. We will allow for questions but don’t give them anything.”

“Right,” they both said in unison. Booth chuckled.

Brian shot him a glare.

The PR guy stepped up. “Time,” he said.

The Captain glared at the Feds. “You two want to speak to the press?”

“Ah, no,” Jasper said.

“Fine, let’s go then.

Inside the large conference room cameras snapped and lights flashed as they approached the podium. The place was crammed full. Police were a large presence both in the crowd and by the exits. The Captain always took extra cautions when it came to these events. A lone gunman could take out the city elders in seconds and that wasn’t going to happen on his watch.

They stood off to the side while the Mayor started the briefing.

“Let the fun happen,” Brian muttered to Sam.

开云体育

Cat and Scott

No Bottom

Part 4??? Desired

Val liked to stay active. If she couldn’t run, then she usually went for a swim. She could have stayed in school but there was a lot going on, and she liked to clear her head some, try to deal with it in her own way.

Hearing Brian’s voice had helped. This was the job he had signed up for, and she had chosen to marry him. It wasn’t always easy but it was what it was. He had her support no matter what, even if it did in fact mean more sleepless nights.

“Have you checked in the drawer on the left side of my desk?” She questioned, hair still dripping wet. Juggling her phone in one hand and the rest of her things in the other? “It should be there Lisa. I put it in right before I went on my break.” The trip to her car wasn’t that long but the fact that they were already calling her, did make her feel rather antsy.

“Look, I’m going to hang up now. I should be at school in 10 minutes or so. I’ll meet you there,” she then added, ending the call, so she could put her cell phone back in her bag and fish out the keys. Of course this was the kinda day where nothing went according to plan and instead she just dropped it all. The bag, the keys.

“骋辞诲诲补尘尘颈迟.”

“Valerie? Val Perry?” The voice was close and would have startled her more than it did because the voice was instantly recognizable.

She looked up. “Reggie?”

He took a couple steps closer, bent down, picked up her purse and handed it to her.

“Hey,” he said, a broad grin on his face. “Bad day?”

“Not really, just life in general,” Val replied as she threw Reggie a grateful smile. “Thanks for that. I’m just trying to juggle it all and failing miserably at it.” Reggie was an old friend/ co-worker of Brian. They went back a long way and while she didn’t necessarily like the man he had always been nothing but polite and helpful to her. Just like he was now.

“I’m off today. Still got that private security gig. It pays the bills. Anyway, you look great. How are the kids and Brian. I haven’t spoken to him since New Years. Time flies.”

“Time really does fly but Brian and the kids are great. Getting bigger. You should stop by some time. I bet he would love to see you.” Val then offered. It was the polite thing to do and Brian was always so busy. A night away from it all was exactly what the doctor had prescribed.” Perhaps you should come over sometime. Have a bite to eat? I’ll even cook.”

“I hear that. Well, I’ll let you go. Good to see you again.” Reggie scanned the parking lot while he spoke.

As Val moved to climb into her car a sharp paralyzing pain shot through her body. She looked up at the sky from the pavement. She couldn’t speak or move. Reggie looked down at her. Then he placed a soft cloth over her mouth.

The movements of the vehicle woke her up. She rolled a foot and bumped into something hard. She couldn’t see anything. A cloth in her mouth made it hard to breathe. Her arms were bound behind her. Her legs were bound to something unmovable.

The van she guessed made a sharp turn then seemed to accelerate to freeway speeds.

There were like a million things you could do in a situation like this. At least according to the movies, the TV shows, the adds … but when it truly happened to you, there was no time to act, no time to think. Val had taken a few self-defense classes when she was younger. With a cop as a husband, safety could quickly become an issue. She had been good at it too and it had been fun, yet as it turned out, completely useless as well.

There was a tap on the shoulder, a sharp pain and before Val knew it, the world around her exploded in a haze of red and black. Nothing seemed to make sense anymore, just this overwhelming sense of panic, the knowledge that something bad was happening, that everything she had ever seen, had read about in the paper was real and that it was happening to her.

The panic was real, the fear and while part of her wanted to struggle, the other part just wanted to cry. Her entire face felt like it was on fire, limbs feeling weak and heavy. She wanted to talk, wanted to scream, but she couldn’t. The world was nothing but a haze and while instinct kicked, urging her to move there was also the rational part of her brain that was trying to assess the situation.

She needed to be smart about this, needed to find a way out. There were two options here. To stay quiet and go to his intended destination and who knew what would happen once they got there. She would be lost, with no way to go, nowhere to run. If she made her escape now? What did she really have to lose?

Why was he doing this? Reggie was Brian’s friend. This didn’t make sense. Why would he hurt her like this. Kidnap her? God the kids. They would be so scared . Brian. He already had so much on his plate.

She couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe, couldn’t do anything but lie there.

This had to be a dream. She would wake up soon. Be back in Brian’s arms. This wasn’t happening. This wasn’t real. It couldn’t be.

She would bide her time. Wait. Wait until he didn’t pay attention, and then she’d run. That’s what she would do.

God, why was this happening?

开云体育

Cat and Scott

开云体育

Cat and Scott

No Bottom

Part 4??? Desired? continuation

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“I think you should ask me out on a date,” Val all but ordered as she threw Brian a knowing look. They had been dancing around the issue for days now. Spending time together, being friends, liking each other, flirting back and forth but never anything more.?

“You know, go all out. Get dressed up, grab a bite to eat, bring me flowers.” It didn’t have to be much but something to at the very least progress this whole relationship they had been dancing around in. Or better lack thereof.?

Staring out at the ocean in front of her Val couldn’t help but wonder what had to be going through Brian’s mind right now. Here they were both sitting on a glorious beach. The sun was shining brightly in the sky. All around them people were enjoying the beginning of the summer, having fun. Perfect place really to get those summer vibes going.?

“So what do you think? Tonight?”?

Brian grimaced, “I’ve heard stories that back in the olden days the man courted the woman. We’ve missed that boat apparently.” He shrugged in abdication.

“Flowers huh? Dress up? Like in church? That sounds very preppy. Are you trying to make me into a prepster?”

Brian gave her the blow up image with his hands pulling apart. “My brain is on fire.”

He seemed to consider, a finger bent to his forehead. “Eat is something this cave boy can understand. We have fish. We have pasta. We have uhhh pizza. Or go real fancy at a swank bowling alley and get hot wings and beer?”

He did like her very much. It was something in his bones that spoke to him. Rattled down deep complaining that he moved too slow, took too many long walks in the head. Here she was this absolute stunner almost begging for him to do SOMETHING.

He looked up at her as if coming out of a deep meditation. “Sure, I’m up for it. All of the above.”

Her body seemed to light up. A burning he could not look away from. He liked that a lot.

“That was then and this is now and in the now, we are strong independent women that don’t wait around for a man to tell us how things are going to go,” Valerie merely stated, an amused look on her face. “Besides I suppose I was just tired of waiting for you to work up the courage, so I figured why not do it myself?”?

“I’m very methodical,” he murmured.

She liked him. He was cute. They had chemistry and whenever other girls were hanging around him she got jealous. Those were all sure signs. Val’s life hadn’t always been easiest but if she had learned anything it was to seize the day and fight for the things you wanted out of life.?

“I’ve got something even better. How about you and me. The back of your truck? Some tasty food, some nice music, a starlit sky. I’m sure you know a spot where we can be alone together and make it all romantic.” Val suggested. “ And wine, not the cheap kind and I’ll require flowers. Roses preferably,” she then added with a cheeky grin. “I’m sure we can make it work and if you are good, you might even get to second base. How awesome would that be?”?

Leaning in she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, before getting to her feet and taking off her shorts. “Now how about you cool down a bit and come swimming with me. I’ll even race you. Loser buys … “ And off she went, storming towards the ocean.?

It was warm with a nice breeze off the water. The stars were out the moon just coming up on the far side.

Brian had the roses, wine, candles and lazy music on the truck stereo. Tacos, BBQ wings and jalapenos wrapped in bacon were munched accordingly.

He mentioned something about dancing and there they were in the sand jigging and slow moving heads together. He kissed her.

They had more wine than began to sing along with the songs on stereo. In the back of the truck he’d rigged a blow up bed used for camping. It fit in there snug. They both lay on their backs and watched as shooting stars and far off jets streaked across the sky.

Brian nudged her with an elbow, “How did I do. Did I remember everything?”

“You did alright. No complaints so far,” Val couldn’t help but smile. The date had been pretty amazing. Low-key, simple, yet wonderful. Nothing fancy but entirely them, exactly how she preferred things to be.

“I mean we had good food, good company, good music and great company what more could a girl need?” Brian really had gone out to make the evening as fun as possible. Their first date … she was glad they had finally made that plunge. Not to mention that kiss. It had been pretty amazing. Those butterflies in her stomach. Very much present.

Eyes still focussed on the night sky, she reached out and linked her fingers with his. “See, aren’t you glad you asked me out; This is only the first step you know. You are going to fall head over heels in love with me. I’ll make it so that you can’t possibly live without me anymore. You just wait and see.”

___________________________________________________________________________

The scene faded and instead of Brian’s youthful face Reggie’s maniacal features loomed over her.

“It’s me you love. I understand. Are you hungry? I have all the things you love in my kitchen.”

He rubbed her thigh gently.

Most of what was happening now, was happening in a haze. Her throat still felt sore, her body strange and surreal, like it wasn’t even hers to begin with. The mixture of drugs and the taser all combined made Val feel as if she was watching a movie, as if everything that was happening wasn’t happening to herself. She needed to be smart. Needed to push his buttons. She could do this, she needed to do this for her kids and for Brian. She owed them that much.

“I …. Don’ t think I can walk,” she mumbled softly. “My legs feel all shaky.” Not a lie. She did feel all shaky and unsteady on her feet. But she could do this. She had to.

Reggie blew some smoke in her face. He kept at it for several minutes. “This will make you feel better,” he said.

,_

开云体育

No Bottom Cat and Scott

Desired pt 2

After what seemed like an incalculable amount of time the van came to a stop. She could hear him exit. There was a few minutes of silence then she heard something at the back door.

It opened and Reggie stood looking down at her with a grim smile on his face.??

???Hey Angel. I???ll get you all set up.???

He undid something that had her legs locked down. Then he pulled her out of the van and settled her into a wheelchair.??

???Home sweet home,??? he said cheerfully. She couldn???t answer with the gag in place.

There were lots of trees everywhere she looked. A two-story house was close by. He began to wheel her in that direction. He guided her inside the lower portion of the house through a door that looked like it was made out of steel.??

Reggie flipped on an overhead light, and she could see it was made up as a large bedroom. A large bed, a bedside table, a few lamps and a large TV that sat on a long low chest of drawers.

???I know this is going to take some time but be a good girl for me today, okay????

He lifted her onto the bed. He then attached a heavy looking clasp onto her right ankle. It was tight but lined in a velvet-like cloth that didn???t feel too bad against her skin. A cable was linked to the clasp. It ran to a center support post that went from floor to ceiling and looked to be made of iron. The cable was covered in plastic. It looked like the kind one might use to tie down a dog in the backyard.??

???I???m going to take off the gag. Please don???t scream. We are out in the country with no one for miles.???

He cut off the gag then cut off the plastic ties on her wrists and on her ankles. She was free, not counting the long leash attached to the load bearing post.

As soon as the gag was removed Valerie didn???t in fact start screaming. Perhaps it didn???t help, but honestly, she didn???t care. None of this made sense. Reggie was her husband???s friend. He was one of the good guys. What had he taken her here? It didn???t make sense. None of it.??

She kept on screaming, physically crawling away from him as far as she possibly could. ???Why are you doing this? I don???t get it. Get away from me,??? The words came out all jumbled. Tears running down her face.??

What was this place? It seemed so calculated. Almost as if he had it all planned out. This room, this house. No, right? This was a mistake? Had to be. Some misplaced joke.??

???This isn???t funny Reggie. I don???t know what the hell is wrong with you, but you need to let me go. If Brian finds out about this, he???ll kill you.??? God what if ??? what if he had hurt ???. No, she couldn???t think like that. All he had to do was let her go.??

???Let me go, I can???t stay here. The kids will be worried. You know them Reggie, you know me. I don???t know what is going on but please just let me go.??

Reggie rushed to her, took a handful of her hair and brutally slapped her hard across her cheek.??

???Shut up! You are mine. I don???t want to hear about kids or Brian ever again. You will regret it and so will they.??? He let the implied threat hang in the air.

???Now you have no choice but to love the only man who has loved you. We will be happy together.???

He was delusional??? had to be. What was all this talk about loving her. Deep down Val had suspected that perhaps there had been more at play than mere friendly interest. Women usually could tell. Reggie had always been a bit overly polite and charming when it came to their interactions. But that had been it. Brian was his friend. They had known each other for years and now all of this???

The slap caught her off guard. The brutality of that simple act, shocking her. It was a wake up call without a doubt. He wasn???t fooling around. This was not some sick game. He would hurt her if need be, would hurt her family, her children.??

That simple realisation made her come down. There was no playing around, no room for games now. She needed to get out of here, as soon as possible.??

A comfortable chair sat in a far corner. He went and sat down. Remotes lay on a side table. He grabbed one and turned on the TV. After flipping through the channels he settled on one that was showing some current news broadcast.

???...Thank you Mayor,??? said Brian???s Captain. ???If you have any questions my two Detectives Sam Enos and Brian Perry are on the case would be happy to answer.??

Brian and Sam stepped up to the podium.

A reporter from the local TV station got the first question. ???When do you think the killer will strike again????

Reggie started to laugh. ???That is not your husband. If you defy me I will kill everyone you love, everyone you have ever known.??? He chuckled to himself.??

Eventually he left the room through another solid looking door. She thought she could hear him going up some stairs. The sound was muted. Then it was very quiet.

On the TV Brian looked right into the camera and spoke. ???Be alert, we will get this perpetrator. We will need your help.???

Several other questions came for the two Detectives but they declined to give anymore details. The new conference finished up and the image reverted to a commercial for facial cream.

Seeing Brian???s face on the screen nearly unhinged her. It was just so hard, seeing him right there. This was the man she loved, the man she would trust with her life. He would come. He would help her. There was no doubt in her mind about that. But seeing him like that. Over there on that screen. It made tears dwell in her eyes. Val just loved him so much. She would do whatever she needed to do in order to get out of here. Get back to him.??

He came back too soon though. Not giving her time to figure out a plan of attack. Find some sort of weapon to protect herself with. Val you need to be smart here girl. You can do this. Stay calm. Not think of everything that can go wrong. Just focus on getting out.??

Reggie suddenly appeared in the doorframe. Beer in hand he glared at Val. Then he took a seat and changed the channel.??

???I guess you are not yet news worthy,??? he said. Then he put on a movie and opened his beer.

???You are delusional. Do you really think you can get away with this???? Valerie couldn???t help but throw out. Her face was hurting, she was scared and cold, but most of all she was just angry. Furious even.??

???Who the fuck do you think you are anyway? You don???t think he is going to find me Reggie? He???s your friend. You know him. Brian won???t stop at anything to find me and when he does he will fucking end you.??? Her husband was a lot of things but most of all he was determined.??

???Look I don???t what you are playing at but we are not playing happy house here. I???m not going to give in to whatever sick fantasy you might have. So just let me go,??? Valerie demanded again as she was pulling and pushing to get the chain off ???Let me go right now.?????

Reggie sighed. ???I thought you would understand what a mistake you made. I don???t think you know what I???m willing to do.?????

He left for a couple minutes then came back in. He wore a pair of surgical gloves and carried a syringe with a long wicked looking needle.

???I wanted this to be amicable.??? He pulled out a taser and held it up so she could see it.??

???We can have some fun or I can have some fun. Which way do you want it Valerie????

He rushed her like a bull. The taser caught her on the lower leg. Like the last time she could do little but experience the pain of a thousand needles shooting through her body. As she slowly came out of the paralyzation effect another pain came from an injection on her arm.

The Ketamine injection worked quickly. Val felt suddenly woozy. Her body felt light and she could barely move her arms or legs. She watched detached as Reggie began undressing her.

???This could have been mutual. I don???t mind doing it this way,??? he said.

She struggled as he tore away her underwear. Suddenly his hands were around her neck and squeezing hard.????

???Don???t make me,??? he whispered. ???I love you Valerie. Don???t make me kill you too.???

This wasn???t happening. It couldn???t be. She tried to fight, tried to resist, but he was fast. Knocking her out. The taser, then the injection??? drugs, had to be. No matter how hard Val tried to resist, tried to get away, it was useless. There wasn???t anything she could do. Just lie there as he started to undress her.??

???No please, Reggie, you don???t have to do this, please don???t.??? Even though there wasn???t anything she could. Valerie still felt it all. His hands on her body, his mouth against her skin. His breath. It made her sick to her stomach, made her want to throw up.??

???You can still let me go. I won???t say anything.??? Desperate plea. He wouldn???t just let her go but if he did this Val knew that there was no more going back. Then he???d eventually kill her. If he wouldn???t already ?????

His hands around her throat??? suffocating her ???. Squeezing the life out of her. No, she had to live, for the kids, for Brian, for ???.??

???Regg??? ple..ase ??? do.. Please.. . I???m ??? baby??? I???m pregnant??? ???

开云体育

No Bottom Cat and Scott

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“I think you should ask me out on a date,” Val all but ordered as she threw Brian a knowing look. They had been dancing around the issue for days now. Spending time together, being friends, liking each other, flirting back and forth but never anything more.?

“You know, go all out. Get dressed up, grab a bite to eat, bring me flowers.” It didn’t have to be much but something to at the very least progress this whole relationship they had been dancing around in. Or better lack thereof.?

Staring out at the ocean in front of her Val couldn’t help but wonder what had to be going through Brian’s mind right now. Here they were both sitting on a glorious beach. The sun was shining brightly in the sky. All around them people were enjoying the beginning of the summer, having fun. Perfect place really to get those summer vibes going.?

“So what do you think? Tonight?”?

Brian grimaced, “I’ve heard stories that back in the olden days the man courted the woman. We’ve missed that boat apparently.” He shrugged in abdication.

“Flowers huh? Dress up? Like in church? That sounds very preppy. Are you trying to make me into a prepster?”

Brian gave her the blow up image with his hands pulling apart. “My brain is on fire.”

He seemed to consider, a finger bent to his forehead. “Eat is something this cave boy can understand. We have fish. We have pasta. We have uhhh pizza. Or go real fancy at a swank bowling alley and get hot wings and beer?”

He did like her very much. It was something in his bones that spoke to him. Rattled down deep complaining that he moved too slow, took too many long walks in the head. Here she was this absolute stunner almost begging for him to do SOMETHING.

He looked up at her as if coming out of a deep meditation. “Sure, I’m up for it. All of the above.”

Her body seemed to light up. A burning he could not look away from. He liked that a lot.

“That was then and this is now and in the now, we are strong independent women that don’t wait around for a man to tell us how things are going to go,” Valerie merely stated, an amused look on her face. “Besides I suppose I was just tired of waiting for you to work up the courage, so I figured why not do it myself?”?

“I’m very methodical,” he murmured.

She liked him. He was cute. They had chemistry and whenever other girls were hanging around him she got jealous. Those were all sure signs. Val’s life hadn’t always been easiest but if she had learned anything it was to seize the day and fight for the things you wanted out of life.?

“I’ve got something even better. How about you and me. The back of your truck? Some tasty food, some nice music, a starlit sky. I’m sure you know a spot where we can be alone together and make it all romantic.” Val suggested. “ And wine, not the cheap kind and I’ll require flowers. Roses preferably,” she then added with a cheeky grin. “I’m sure we can make it work and if you are good, you might even get to second base. How awesome would that be?”?

Leaning in she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, before getting to her feet and taking off her shorts. “Now how about you cool down a bit and come swimming with me. I’ll even race you. Loser buys … “ And off she went, storming towards the ocean.?

It was warm with a nice breeze off the water. The stars were out the moon just coming up on the far side.

Brian had the roses, wine, candles and lazy music on the truck stereo. Tacos, BBQ wings and jalapenos wrapped in bacon were munched accordingly.

He mentioned something about dancing and there they were in the sand jigging and slow moving heads together. He kissed her.

They had more wine than began to sing along with the songs on stereo. In the back of the truck he’d rigged a blow up bed used for camping. It fit in there snug. They both lay on their backs and watched as shooting stars and far off jets streaked across the sky.

Brian nudged her with an elbow, “How did I do. Did I remember everything?”

“You did alright. No complaints so far,” Val couldn’t help but smile. The date had been pretty amazing. Low-key, simple, yet wonderful. Nothing fancy but entirely them, exactly how she preferred things to be.

“I mean we had good food, good company, good music and great company what more could a girl need?” Brian really had gone out to make the evening as fun as possible. Their first date … she was glad they had finally made that plunge. Not to mention that kiss. It had been pretty amazing. Those butterflies in her stomach. Very much present.

Eyes still focussed on the night sky, she reached out and linked her fingers with his. “See, aren’t you glad you asked me out; This is only the first step you know. You are going to fall head over heels in love with me. I’ll make it so that you can’t possibly live without me anymore. You just wait and see.”