Justin led a weary JC out toward his BMW, opened the door and carefully
guided the brunette into the car. He quickly walked around and entered the
driver’s side. His ribs smarted when he sat down but he pushed the pain aside
until he could get the two of them home.
The blond detective shyly peered over at his boyfriend and took in the sad
expression on his face. The brunette’s head was tilted and resting on the pane
of glass. Justin watched as JC’s breaths fell heavy and disheartened. Justin
finally started the car, threw it in reveres and backed the vehicle out of his
parking spot. The younger man again stole a glance toward JC and observed that
he was favoring one side of his body holding it away from the seat; his legs
awkwardly pulled up against his chest.
“Hey,” Justin reached his hand acrossed the empty space; desperately wanting
to comfort his lover. The blond settled his hand on one of JC’s bent knees,
thankful for the connection.
JC encouraged his gaze away from the view outside his window and adoringly
stared at the intruding hand. He tentatively reached for the comforting object,
determining whether or not he should lay a hand on it afraid Justin’s
heartening touch may leave him. The older man chanced a glance in the direction
of Justin and then once more at the hand, finally making the decision. He laid
his hand on top of Justin’s, lacing their fingers together, bathing in
contentment.
“I’m sorry,” he whispered, eyes wide, fearful. “You were right,” he
sighed.
“JC?”
“You were right about me not going there.” He squeezed Justin’s hand,
“Why did you let me talk you into it?” JC continued staring at their
entwined fingers. “I’m so sorry,” he closed his eyes, holding back the
emotions that were tearing him up inside.
Justin could hear the hurt in his lover’s voice; desperate to alleviate that
hurt Justin returned JC’s tight handhold. He turned his head briefly, “JC,
look at me.” The brunette obeyed, meeting Justin’s azure eyes for the first
time since getting into the car. “You’ve nothing to be sorry about. Nothing.”
He watched helplessly as a tear rolled down JC’s battered face.
“I’m sorry for being an embarrassment to you,” JC mumbled.
“JC, please.”
“I am, Justin. My God I’m a stripper, sugah, how can that not embarrass you.
I mean that’s enough to embarrass any straight man.” JC’s eyes fluttered
open.
“Baby, I don’t care what you do.”
JC ignoring Justin’s comment and continued, “Even Nick knew that. He tried
using that fact against you and even though you said those wonderful things,
everyone in that room knows, now. You didn’t want that. You wanted me to quit,
and if I had then I wouldn’t have embarrassed you like that,” he sniffed,
“I’m sorry for that.”
“JC,” Justin started in a stern voice, “I meant every word I said.” He
focused on the road once more, “If any good came from this afternoon, it would
have to be my realization that it doesn’t matter what you do, baby. If it
makes you happy then I’m happy. You’re a wonderful dancer and you’er
really really good at it, believe me, I should know.” JC blushed. “And
sweetie,” his hand moved from JC’s slender figures to the side of his face,
“you’ll never embarrass me. Never.”
JC closed his eyes, enjoying the feel of Justin’s hand against his skin. He
followed Justin’s hand with his own, encompassing and pressing it tighter
against his face. Then he slid the larger hand around and kissed the palm of it,
running his tongue up each digit and again rubbing it alongside his face. The
brunette moved slightly, a small moan escaping his lips. He tried adjusting his
body for comfort but he found none.
“What is baby?” Justin asked with concern laced in his voice.
“Just sore,” JC sighed.
“Where?”
“Where aren’t I sore, would be an easier question to answer.”
Justin looked away in shame, “I’m sorry for the way they treated you. Please,
know that I would never willingly subject you to that kind of treatment. I had
no idea how cruel they could be.”
“I’m… I’m just tired of it, ya know,” JC answered turning his gaze
toward the passing scenery.
“Yeah, sweetie, I know. Believe me I know.”
“Why don’t people mind their own business and leave us alone?”
“Cuz that would make sense and since when does that ever happen?”
The brunette faced Justin, “Yeah, I guess.” He watched Justin drive in
silence the rest of the way home.
**
They pulled into the driveway of their home at 2:13 pm. Justin quickly rolled
out of the car and opened the door for JC.
“You do realize that I’m not a girl don’t you?” the brunette teased.
“Like I told Joey, if you were I sure as hell wouldn’t be with you. Now let
me open the doors for you.”
“Next thing you’ll be trying to carry me into the house.” JC looked at
Justin who had a smirk on his face, “Justin? I know that look. You are not
carrying…. Justin put me down.”
“No, I’m carrying you in.” Justin winced as the full weight of Jc’s body
caved into his.
“Whoa… sugah, put me down. I’m hurting you.”
“No, I’ll be fine. Just let me do this.”
JC smiled and wrapped his arms around Justin’s neck, scrunching his eyes in
response to his pain the action set through his body. “We’re both pretty
rough aren’t we.”
Justin carried JC into the house and set his wiry body down on the plush couch
in their living room. He slowly stood up and stretched; a sharp pain shot
through his body.
“Where’s the med kit?”
“It’s upstairs Justin. Do you want me to go get it?” JC watched as Justin
struggled.
“No. I’ll get it.”
“Why don’t we both go upstairs and get it. That way neither of us will need
to come back down again.”
Justin smiled. “Sounds like a plan.” As Justin reached the staircase a
sudden surge of hazy images passed through his mind. He steadied himself against
JC’s small shoulder, waiting for the visions to pass. “Gah, they’re just
so jumbled. I can’t make heads nor tells of it.”
“What is it, sugah?”
“I don’t know, something’s wrong though I can feel the fear radiating from
it.”
“sit down.”
“No, it’ll pass.” Placing a shaky hand on his temple, “I’ve never
experienced this before. I don’t know what to think of it.”
“I… I don’t know what to do for you.”
The haze of images quickly dissipated from Justin’s mind and was replaced with
a searing headache. “Oh, god.”
“What? What can I do?”
“Baby, shhh.” Justin placed his fingers over the top of JC’s cut lips.
“The headache that comes with this one feels ten times worse than the others.
Just speak quietly.”
“Oh,” JC whispered around Justin’s fingers. “Is it gone, sugah?”
Justin chuckled softly; grabbing JC by his waist and hauling him close,
“You’re so cute, you know that. Your face covered with worry and hesitation.
Makes me want to kiss you all over.”
“Well, that’s gonna have to wait until we’re clean.”
“Come on, Josh. Let me take care of you, get you cleaned up for work.”
JC without hesitation followed Justin carefully and slowly up the stairs. Justin
led the brunette into their bedroom and sat him down on the bed. “Wait right
there, don’t move.”
“Okay,” JC shyly replied.
Justin returned with a pan full of steaming water, a washcloth and some bottles.
JC tilted his head slightly as he watched his boyfriend carry everything into
the room. The blond set the tub of water down on the floor next to JC’s feet.
He put the washcloth into the pan watching it capture the water into its fabric.
The bottles, he carefully unscrewed the caps and set them on the nightstand.
**
Nick sat at his desk in his cubicle throwing wads of paper at his garbage can
and missing horribly.
“I fucking hate them.”
“Dude, get over it.”
He threw another wad and watched it careen of the side of the trashcan. “I
hate those fucking faggots with all my heart.”
“Listen. You need to let it go, don’t let it consume you.”
“What the fuck Kevin? Don’t let it consume you,” he mimicked. “Are you
David fucking Carradine or something?” He threw a crumbled piece of paper at
Kevin, ducked the incoming projectile. “Next thing you know you’ll be
addressing me as Grasshopper, or some stupid shit like that.” Nick
unconsciously bit his hangnails and mumbled, “Consume me.”
“Sorry, but really, in reality it’s not all that important especially when
you compare it to other things. And if I were you I’d be thanking the man
upstairs that Lieutenant Nickelson isn’t here.”
“Yeah,” Nick whispered. Raising his voice, “But what other things, Kevin?
Could you clarify that for me?”
“Well, I’m talking about our cases. They’re far more important than JC and
Justin.”
“Don’t…”
“Don’t what…”
“Don’t fucking ever mention their names in my presences. Okay. If you need
to refer to them, then call one something like cock cozy and the other ass rider,”
Nick chuckled to himself.
“I am not gonna say those things.”
“Why?”
“It’s disrespectful and besides I don’t even know J… um Detective
Timberlake’s boy…” Nick stared hard, “significant other? Very well.”
Nick stood up and strode toward Kevin’s desk. He placed both hands on the
surface and looked hard at Kevin, a stray hair in his eyes. “Look at me.”
Kevin’s long lashes fluttered up and Nick was met with breathtaking green eyes.
“You’ve got green eyes,” Nick stated.
Thrown a bit by Nick’s change in topics; Kevin answered, “Yes, very good…
is it Detective Nick Carter.”
“Very funny. I just never noticed that’s all.” Nick eased the loose piece
of hair back and slammed his hand down on the desk, “Now about being
disrespectful. How could you even consider them human let only care about being
respectful to them?”
“Oh, I forgot they’re the downfall of human kind. Just them no one else,
right. Hell, they’re even worse than the killers we bring down every day.”
Nick raised an eyebrow at Kevin, “So I’m catching some sarcasm, here.
What’s your deal?”
“Nick, I just don’t think the same way as you do. I don’t dislike gay
people, I mean as long as they’re private about it, then fine.”
“But what about this afternoon when you stopped cock cozy,” Nick giggled,
“from hitting me and then held him.”
“You’re my partner and friend, duh. Of course I’m gonna help you. Just
like Joey helped Justin. I don’t have to agree with you, though.”
Nick smirked, “Hmmm… interesting, a partner with his own opinion.”
“Nick you knew that about me before we were partnered up, what four years ago.”
“Five, Kevin. We’ve been partners for five years now.”
“That’s a long time to be stuck with you that’s for sure,” Kevin smiled.
“Thanks,” Nick said thoughtfully.
“For what?”
“Taking my mind off the insignificant things.”
“Your welcome, now hand me that file and let’s get to work.”
**
Justin gently tilted his lover’s head sideways checking out the damage caused
by Nick and Kevin. JC’s lower lip was caked with dried blood and his chin
stained crimson. Just below the cut and covering most of the jaw line was a
deepening bruise, which Justin absently ran his thumb over as he continued
inspecting the once flawless face. JC hissed at the touch, but held his head
still for Justin’s attention. The young lover carefully held JC’s chin as he
reached into the pan of water and wringing out the washcloth before using it.
Justin lifted the cloth toward JC’s face; using only two fingers, he gently
positioned it on the cut lip causing the brunette an injection of pain. The
blond dabbed the lip tenderly while staring adoringly into half hooded steel
eyes. When Justin added a hint of pressure, the steel penetrating eyes were
closed off.
After the lip was cleaned, Justin submerged the reddened cloth back into the
water; rinsing it. He then used the washcloth to clean the stained smearing of
blood from his boyfriend’s chin. JC’s head moved away from Justin’s gentle
touch, “I can do that… you don’t have…”
“I want to.” He dipped the cloth back into the water, taking his eyes away
from JC’s face only briefly. He caressingly soothed the cloth across the
brunette’s forehead, down his nose and relaxingly down JC’s slender neck.
“Ahemm,” JC cleared his throat and Justin watched hungrily as JC’s
Adam’s Apple move. The brunette encircled Justin’s wrist. “I think
you’re getting carried away here, angel,” he smirked.
“Wha… oh sorry,” the younger man blushed.
JC’s smile grew wider and he cupped the side of Justin’s face. “You could
always take a shower with me if you wanted.”
Justin’s tongue slowly slipped out and licked the outside of his lips, cock
twitched. “Yeah?”
“Yeah.”
Justin pulled JC into his embrace and observed his lover arch away from his
touch. When the blond looked into JC’s face the older man’s eyes were closed,
lashes wet. “Am I hurting you?” JC quietly nodded his head. “Let’s take
a look, all right.”
“Okay.”
Justin slowly helped JC take off his denim jacket and discarded it quickly onto
the carpeted floor. They looked deep into each other’s eyes as Justin caressed
the sides of JC’s lean torso. The brunette’s breathing became more labored
as the larger hands slipped underneath his sleeveless red shirt.
“Lift your arms baby.”
JC tried lifting his arms per Justin’s instructions but he could only position
them shoulder high. “I can’t go any further.”
“Hmm… How well do you like this shirt, sweetie?” Justin asked, eyes
sparkling with mirth.
“I don’t,” JC smiled back.
“Good.” He gently laid JC back against the soft downy blanket and kissed him
affectionately. “I don’t like it either.” Justin’s hands found their way
to the tattered neckline of the shirt, grabbing a handful each. He pulled his
two hands apart successfully tearing the red shirt. The action caused a small
amount of pain for Justin, but the results were well worth it. He looked down at
his lover’s exposed flesh and glistening Leo pendant; he leaned down placing
small kisses just underneath it.
“Ummm…Just…tin… work, sho..shower.”
Justin tongue ghosted up JC’s abs, over each nipple, up JC’s neck and chin
finally licking soothingly over JC’s lips. “Sorry, I just can’t help it
sometimes.”
The brunette swallowed hard searching for his voice, “Yeah.”
Justin removed the rest of the shirt from JC’s slender form leaving the shirt
lying on the bed as he hauled his pliant boyfriend up off the bed. “Let’s
see what’s bothering you so much.” When he turned JC around he noticed the
slight bruising skirting across the brunette’s shoulders. He lightly traced
his fingers over the discoloration, “You’ve got some minor bruising across
you shoulders, sweetie.”
“No shit.”
He looked further down his lover’s back; ignoring JC’s comment, that’s
when he observed the dark menacing bruise that was located just under the
shoulder blade. “That’s gonna hurt for a while,” he said pressing against
it lightly. “It’s pretty large and dark.” Justin traced his fingers
acrossed it, receiving information from his mind about how it happened. “You
get this in the restroom.”
“Yeah, when that bastard pushed me into the wall, I banged into something that
was jutting out from it.”
“Yeah, I know that,” Justin smiled then kissed the back of JC’s head.
“Ouch. Don’t forget I’ve got that large egg sitting up there in my nest of
hair.”
“Opps,” Justin picked through JC’s hair trying to find the knot.
“Whoa… there it is. You’ve got a pretty large goose egg here, sweetie.
Does it hurt?”
“Just the nagging type of hurt but I do have a headache.”
“Maybe we should call Zinfield’s and tell them you won’t be in today.”
“No, I’ll be all right. Besides I need the money.”
“What do you need the money for?”
“Us, stupid.”
“Hey,” Justin smiled. He wanted to tell JC that he didn’t need to work, he
earned enough for them both, but he didn’t want JC feeling worthless, useless.
Justin’s arms traveled up JC’s chest pulling the smaller man against him. How
can this be wrong, he thought.
“Let’s take that shower, before I miss the second half of my shift.”
“Fine by be, lead the way, baby.”
“Yeah, I’m sure it is. Just keep your hands to yourself, cuz, we don’t
have time for that.”
Justin’s eyes widened, “What ever do you mean? I’d never take advantage of
your virtue,” the blond mocked.
“Virtue, huh. Will see?”
“Hundred bucks, says I can take a shower with you without making a move on
your fine ass.”
JC smiled; remembering how hot and horny Justin was prior to leaving for work.
No way he’s gonna make it, JC thought. “Deal.”
**
Nick and Kevin were busy reading through files when Lieutenant Nickelson walked
into the room. He gazed over the group of men until his eyes fell upon the two
hard at work. Nickelson smiled to himself and walked the short distance between
him and the working detectives.
“So what do you think, Nick,” Kevin asked as he looked up from his file,
surprised in seeing the Lieutenant standing just behind Nick, staring at the
back of Nick’s head. Oh shit, he thought and kicked Nick under the desk.
“Hey, give me a couple seconds here. I don’t read a quickly as you do.”
“I’m surprised you can read at all, Carter.”
Nick’s body tensed up. He looked acrossed the desk at Kevin and then closed
his eyes. “Lieutenant,” Nick greeted through clenched teeth
“I need to see you in my office, Detective Carter, I’ve had some complaints
about you.”
“What? Who?”
“In my office and I’ll tell you, Carter,” Nickelson nearly yelled, causing
the other people in the office attentions to turn on them. “Now.”
“Yes, sir.” Nick gave a pleading look at Kevin and then slowly eased his way
out of his chair. He walked behind Nickelson and into the Lieutenant’s office.
“Close the door, Carter.” Nick’s hand trembled as he reached for the door,
closing his only means of escape. “Shut the blinds.” Nick swallowed hard as
he reached for the cord, shutting the blinds.
Kevin watched as his partner closed the blinds in the Nickelson’s office. He
blinked a few times trying to focus on his work in front of him, but knowing
something wasn’t right stilled his attempts. He just stared at the closed door.
Joey walked over toward the seemingly entranced Kevin and sat in Nick’s chair.
The younger detective followed Kevin’s stare, realizing he was occupied with
the Lieutenant’s office door. He turned his head back, tilted it and stared at
the older man. When Kevin did not respond, Joey tapped on the file still hanging
precariously in his hand “Hey, Kevin are ya with me?”
Kevin blinked several times and turned his gaze toward Joey. “Hmm, what? I’m
sorry I didn’t hear you. Did you say some thing to me?”
“Wow, that’s what I call zoned out.” Joey chuckled, “What were you
thinking about?”
“Hmmm…oh nothing. Nothing at all.” He stole a look back at the office and
then pretended he was busy sorting out his files. “I’m just sorting my files
here. Don’t want Nick in my face about mixing them up or something.”
“Is Nick in with Nickelson?” Joey asked watching Kevin’s reaction.
“Yeah,” he sighed. “Evidently, some one called in and complained about him.”
“Really, who?”
“Probably, Josh. I would’ve that's for sure.”
“No, they just left a little while ago. I don’t think either one of them
called in.”
“Well, regardless. I’m thinking his getting a real ass chewing, his been in
there awhile now.”
“Nickelson can go overboard with his lectures. I think it makes him feel
better about the inadequate way he handles this division.”
“You ain’t shiten.”
Joey stared at a file in front of him cautiously toying with the edge of it.
“So… what’s up with Nick anyways?”
“What do you mean, Joey?” Kevin’s green eyes were staring hard at Joey’s.
“I mean this shit with Justin and JC. What’s up his ass?”
“Interesting choice of words,” Kevin laughed.
“Shut up and just answer the question.”
“I don’t know.” Joey stared hard, “I’m serious here. I’d tell you if
I honestly knew what was wrong with him.”
“Is he that strongly against gay people?”
“Joey, what part of the word grouping don’t you understand, I don’t know.”
Joey reached over and grabbed Kevin’s wrist. “When you figure it out, let me
know. I want to heads up Justin about it. I think he deserves a legitimate
excuse by that bastard. So does JC.”
“Look,” he pulled his wrist away, “whatever, dude. I’m not ratting out
my partner. If you have issues with him then I suggest you bring it up with him.
I’m not a go between.”
The door opened and a quiet and timid looking Nick shuffled out of the room.
Instead of going back toward his desk, he quietly was en route for the bathroom.
Kevin stood up hoping he would be able to intercept Nick, but he felt Joey’s
hand still him. “Not, now. Let him cool off.”
Kevin violently pulled his shoulder free from Joey’s grasp. “Since when do
you presume to know anything about my partner? And where do you get off thinking
you know him better than I do.”
“I don’t. I just…”
“Stay out of it Fatone and mind your own fucking business.” Kevin turned and
walked away from Joey and toward the bathroom.
**
“I can’t believe you,” Justin teased.
“Can’t believe me what?” JC innocently replied.
“You cheated.”
“I don’t recall any rules being placed with the bet. Maybe you could refresh
my memory, but in the mean time, cough over the hundred dollars.”
“You so cheated,” Justin whined.
“I can’t help it that you can’t keep your hands off me,” JC replied as
he towel dried his hair next to their oversized bed.
“Can’t keep my… why you.” Justin ran across the room and carefully
tackled JC into the bed both wincing from the slight pain the action caused.
JC giggled. “See, you so just proved my point.”
“Baby, you were naked, wet and you kept brushing up against me. Any sane man
would’ve done the same thing.”
“I’m naked now,” JC wiggled an eyebrow.
“Yeah, you are, but you have to go to work,” Justin slowly rolled off of JC.
He drew small circles on the flat exposed stomach. “What time do you need to
be there?”
JC lulled his head toward the clock. “Um… in ten
minutes.”
“What?
Jesus, JC.” He maneuvered his way off the bed and grabbed a limp arm yanking
JC up. “Let’s get you dressed. We won’t have time to put your makeup
on.” JC stood in the middle of the room laughing silently as he watched his
lover scramble to find him his work cloths. He continued working with his hair
while Justin brought over the outfit. The blond grabbed one foot and lifted it,
then the other. He pulled the gray boxer briefs up the long muscular legs until
his eyes met with JC’s cock. He licked it, causing JC to hiss and buck
forward.
“I’m not gonna let you continue if you can’t behave,” JC teased.
“Whatever.” Justin smiled, “Gotta get my licks in when I can.”
“Oh, god sugah, that was just awful.”
“So you get the point, don’t you?” he shrugged his shoulders. “Now, put
these on and this, and then you’ll be already to go.”
JC smiled, “Okay, mommy.” He gracefully put on the slacks and the white
button up shirt as Justin sat on the bed watching.
“You know, I’m probably the only who gets to watch you dress.”
JC laughed, “Yeah,” he bent down and tied his shoes.
“It’s like anti-stripping.” JC shook his damp hair and looked over his
shoulder toward Justin. He was surprised that Justin was hard.
He slowly rolled his body up and stood. JC leaned over Justin and whispered,
“Do you get off on it, sugah.”
Justin closed his eyes and nodded his head. He felt a soft wet tongue ghost over
his lips; reaching up he grabbed JC, pulling the smaller man closer and
capturing his taunting lips.
“Umm… work.”
“Don’t start what you can’t finish, Josh.”
JC backed away from Justin who quickly followed. The blond wrapped his arm
around JC’s waist and led him out of the room. “Time for work,” JC said
sadly.
“Time for work.”
**
Justin dropped JC off at the back door of Zinfield’s and remembered the
tentative look his boyfriend gave him. He watched JC hesitantly enter the
building; looking over his shoulder only once at Justin’s BMW before finally
entering. As soon as JC was out of Justin’s view and safely inside, Justin
left returning to the precinct.
He walked through the main doors and ignored everyone in the room. The blond
detective continued until he reached the main area and was dismayed when he saw
Joey sitting acrossed from Kevin. It didn’t last long, Kevin stood and Joey
grabbed the older man’s shoulder whispering some thing. Kevin shrugged
Joey’s hand off and walked toward the bathroom. Justin quietly walked up
behind his friend.
“What’s up with him?” Justin asked, startling Joey.
“I don’t know. He won’t tell me.” Joey turned around meeting Justin’s
eyes. “Besides, weren’t you suppose to call me when you were on your way
here.”
“Yeah, but I forgot,” he shrugged. “Anyway, let’s head out and do that
interview. I’ve got a strange feeling about this case.”
“Well, on our way over, you should read those files. We need a profile on this
person like yesterday.”
“Yeah, that’s a good idea Joey, I’ll grab them on our way out.”
“No… get them now, so we won’t have to worry about you forgetting them.”
“Fine.” Justin sauntered toward his office ignoring the stares. He grabbed
the files that were on top of his desk and exited the room. Joey was waiting for
him outside the doorway.
“Got it.”
“Duh.”
“Then lets go.”
As the two detectives walked out of the room, Lieutenant Nickelson quietly
watched through parted blinds.
**
Kevin slowly opened the restroom door and slipped in. He quietly maneuvered
through the room seeking Nick’s whereabouts. The brunette heard a distinct
noise in one of the stalls and cautiously approached it. He rapped his knuckles
on the door, “Hey, you all right in there?”
“Yeah,” a voice whispered back. “You can leave now.”
“Um…yeah, about that. I don’t thinks so. At least not until you tell me
what the hell went down in the lieutenant’s office.”
“Go the fuck away, Kevin.” Nick opened the stall door knocking a stunned
Kevin back on his heels, wiping his mouth on his sleeve. He continued until he
reached the sink. The blond turned the water on combining the hot and cold water
to a suitable temperature. He stuck his hand under the steaming cascade, leaned
forward and splashed it against his face.
Kevin watched Nick through the large wall mirror, trying his best to gather
information. “Hey, Nick. What’s going on?”
Nick’s hand trembled as he toyed with the streaming water. He looked up and
met the green-eyed man’s gaze in the mirror. “Nothing,” he whispered.
“I… he … just told me about the complaint.” He looked down again.
“A complaint, eh.”
“Yeah.”
“Which case?”
“Excuse me?”
“Well, if you received a complaint, than which case did it involve? I mean
we’ve go three going right now, so it has to be one of them.”
“Case, umm… yeah. One of them…” Nick turned his body and faced the paper
towel dispenser. He hands shook as he unleashed a large sheet of it.
Kevin stepped up and reached out of the trembling hand; grasping it and gently
moving it away from the dispenser. “Here.” Kevin tore the sheet from the
holder and handed it to Nick.
“Thanks.”
“When you’re ready to tell me the truth,” his voice trailed off.
“I know…I will.”
“All right then. Fix yourself up before you go back out there. You look like
shit.”
“Right.”
“All right.”
“You said that.”
“I’m going, I’m going, sheeesh.” Kevin exited the restroom.
Fuck, Nick thought, fuck.
**
Justin and Joey drove silently through the secluded neighborhood looking for the
address in the file. The blond detective suddenly flinched back in his seat as a
powerful vision took hold of his mind.
“You all right, Justin?” Joey pulled the car over and inspected Justin.
“I’m talking to you.” Damn it. The kid is having another vision. Joey sat
back and waited for Justin’s return.
The rain spattered in the pale brunette’s eyes as he waited for his lover
to exit the club. His head turned when he heard a voice coming from behind him.
The young man, who was leaning against a pole stood straight when the owner of
the voice came into view.
“I said no soliciting here.”
“I’m not. I’m just waiting…”
“I don’t care who you’re waiting for…”
The brunette was grabbed by the other man and hauled against he wall face first.
Anyone in the vicinity casually glanced at the scene but paid no attention to
it. The young man was handcuffed and pulled forcefully away from the entranceway
and toward a car. He began struggling when he recognized the vehicle he was
approaching was not an official car.
“Let me go,” he screamed. The larger man struck the brunette silencing him.
“To late, faggot.” The eyes of the man were not looking at the brunette but
were looking directly at him.
“Huh…” Justin screamed.
“What? What’s the matter, Justin?”
“Nothing.” His breathing calmed down, “Just something in this file
triggered a vision.”
“Yeah, what part?”
“Oddly enough,” he paused sending a glance in Joey’s direction, “the
witness’s account of what happened at Shasta and then my mind went from
there.”
“Really? Where did it take you?”
“I saw the man take Brent in cuffs toward his car, and then the killer stared
right at me. I swear if I were standing there he would’ve looked right at
me.”
“Handcuffs, I guess that would explain the bruising around wrists of the
victims.”
“No not all of the victims. I remember the Dominic’s weren’t even, that
indicates robe or some other fabric binding.”
“Yeah, okay. That makes sense.”
Justin looked out Joey’s window at the mailbox numbers, “Oh were here. why
didn’t you tell me.”
“Huh,” Joey peered over his shoulder, “What do you know?” he whispered.
“Let’s go.” Justin opened his door and stepped out into the street. He
glanced over the top of the car and noticed a structure in a tree. “Joey.”
Joey turned around and then followed Justin’s gaze, “Hmmm… seems awfully
suspicious doesn’t it.”
“That’s what I was thinking.” He looked at Joey, “We’ll need to check
it out before we go, don’t you think.”
“You’re the boss.”
“Shut up.” He closed his door and sauntered toward Joey, “Let’s get this
done, I want to go home and develop those photos I took of the crime scene.”
“I’m sure that’s exactly what you’re gonna do.”
Justin laughed as they walked up the sidewalk.
**
JC quietly entered the building looking in both directions he made his way
toward the timecard machine. He was only ten minutes late this time. He put his
waiters vest on and moved toward the door that led into the dining area. As the
brunette pushed the door open he was greeted with an angry manager.
“Where the hell have you been? You look like shit,” he screamed.
“Umm…I was…wasn’t feeling well this morning and…”
“Really,” the manager put his hands on his hip. “Morning sickness or did
your boyfriend beat you up last night.”
JC gasped “No, Justin would never hit me… just wasn’t feeling well,
Toby.”
“You couldn’t call me, so I could find someone to cover your tables.”
“I… I wasn’t thinking, sorry.” JC moved away from the door and grabbed
his assignment. He walked past his manager toward his first table. The elegant
man asked the couple what he could start them out with, but was interrupted by
his callous day manager.
“Look here. Just because you were up late having sex with your boyfriend,
doesn’t give you the right to waltz in here whenever you deem it necessary,”
the manager yelled, causing people within the restaurant to stare in their
direction.
JC shyly looked away with flushed cheeks. “I didn’t…I was…wasn’t
feeling well. How many times to I have to say that.”
“You know how many people I could replace you with. Hmm… I swear if I catch
you late one more time, I’m reporting you.”
“Okay, fine, sorry.”
The manager stormed away and into the back, JC sighed. Well that went well, he
thought. He turned back toward his customers. “I’m sorry, where was I?” he
asked politely.
“About to leave,” the distinguished man at the table replied.
“I’m sorry…”
“Dear,” the woman reached acrossed the table and placed her hand on his,
“this isn’t the place.” She looked up at JC, “I’ll have a glass of
Merlot and he’ll have a scotch straight up.”
“Yes, mama. I’ll be right back with those.”
JC scuttled away and ran toward the back. He grabbed a bottle of Merlot and
poured the lady her glass and then fixed the scotch. The rattled brunette placed
the drinks on his tray and carried them back out into the dining room.
“Wow, that was fast,” the woman commended. “Wasn’t it honey?”
JC sat the glass of wine down in front of the woman and reached for the scotch.
As he began removing it from the tray the gentleman grabbed his wrist. He
sneered, “I don’t want anything fixed by you. I don’t know what kind of
diseases you have. You could have AIDS for all I know.”
A sharp emotional pain ripped through JC’s soul, “I…I’m sor…sorry.
Um…I’ll. I’ll get someone else to…to …fix… just just let go of
me.”
The man pushed JC’s arm away from him causing the scotch to slosh up onto his
white shirt. JC’s hand trembled as he sat the drink back on the tray; spilling
more of it’s contents. “I want to speak with your manager.”
“But… I… I didn’t…do anything… wrong.”
“I said get me a manager.”
“Yes… yes sir,” JC stuttered and turned away and wiping his eyes. He
rushed back into the kitchen looking for his day manager. The brunette was
agitated and nervous, and not being able to find Toby, was making it worse. His
body was shaking and sweat ran profusely down his spine and under his arms,
causing more discomfort. When he returned he noticed Toby was all ready speaking
with the customer, so he nervously walked over.
“I don’t know what you’re thinking,” the man was saying, “hiring a
faggot.”
“Sir, JC is a wonderful waiter, and I assure you there is nothing wrong with
him.”
“I don’t give a damn what you can assure me. I don’t want a faggot waiting
on me,” the gentleman yelled.
JC was standing next to Toby when the man unleashed his comment. The brunette
looked away from the table gaining back his wits. “I’ll…”
“Oh, you’re back,” the man said. “Why?”
“Sir would you like a different waiter?”
“Not only would I like a different waiter, but I want a different table,
there’s no telling what germs he may have left behind.”
JC heart wrenched as his eyes glazed over. “I’ve had enough,” JC
whispered.
“Excuse me?” the patron asked.
JC looked up and met the cruel man’s eyes. “I said… I’ve had enough.”
He handed his vest to Toby, “I don’t have to take this shit from you,
asshole,” he sniffed. “So fuck you!” JC stormed out of the restaurant
leaving his job and the shocked couple behind.
JC stopped in the middle of the street remembering that he did not have a car
available to him. He continued to cross the street and walked into a coffee
house. He checked his pockets for change and had luckily enough for one phone
call. The brunette knew his boyfriend was busy with police work, so he called
the one other person he knew that would drop everything and come and get him. He
dialed the number from memory, praying his friend was home. The phone rang six
times and JC was about to hang up when a tired voice answered.
“Hello.”
“Hey, I did I wake you.”
“Hey, sweetheart. Yeah you did, but I needed to get up anyway, I’m on
tonight again. Aren’t you supposed to be working or something?”
“I just quit,” JC sighed.
“I’m sorry sweetheart. Does Justin know?”
“It just happened. He’s gonna be so mad when he finds out. I don’t know
what to tell him.”
“We’ll figure something out.”
“Umm…”
“What is it JC?”
“Could you come and get me. I don’t have a car and I don’t know how to get
a hold of Justin; he’s out on an interview or some thing.”
“Sure thing sweetie, where are you?”
“I’m at the coffee house across the street from Zinfield’s.”
“All right, I’ll be right there.”
“Thanks Lance.”
“You owe me.”
"Like I didn't know that."
JC hung up the pay phone and sat down in a booth waiting for Lance to come and
get him.
Detective Fatone pressed the small rectangular button; chiming the doorbell
echoing it throughout the house. The two well dressed men waited for the
occupant of the home to answer the their call. He pressed it again. The same
result occurred, nothing.
“Press it again Joey.”
“Press it again Joey,” the brunette mimicked. Justin cuffed him on the
shoulder. “You’re like a freaking kid in a candy store.”
“Just press the gosh damn doorbell again, Joey.”
“Look, Justin if they haven’t showed up yet, I doubt they will.”
“Stupid, you only rang it like twice. Ring it once more and if Charlie
doesn’t answer we can go check the structure out back.”
“Fine.” Just as Joey reached for the doorbell the large white door creaked
open.
“May I help you,” a timid voice questioned.
“Mr. Paterson?” Joey inquired.
“Yes.”
Justin could not see the man for the door was strategically in his way, but
could tell by his voice how nervous he was. “I’m Detective Fatone and this
is Detective Timberlake.”
“Hello.”
“We need to ask you a few questions about the disappearance and murder of
Dominic Taylor.”
“Okay, yah sure. Um… you called earlier right.”
“Yes, sir that was me. We just as a few quick questions and then will be out
of your way.”
“Come in.”
Justin could not believe his eyes as he finally took in the appearance of
Charlie, he was breathtaking. The owner of the house was tall and with a willowy
build, similar to JC’s. Thick long lashes accented his stunning sapphire eyes,
and his long blond hair gracefully enveloped his oval almost doll like face. He
stood staring at the man until Joey nudged him, “Whoa… I little obvious
there…Hey snap out of it.”
“Um… yeah sorry.”
Joey
grabbed his arm, “What’s your deal?”
“Nothing, I just think he’s a good looking man that’s all.”
The brunette smacked the back of Justin’s head. “Focus here all right.”
They followed Charlie into the living room. “Besides, you’ve got JC.”
“Nothing wrong in looking, right.”
“If JC heard you say that it would crush him.”
“Really?”
“Justin do you think a man that looks like JC, whom could have any one on this
planet he wanted wouldn’t be affected. I mean it’s tough for beautiful
people to have a meaningful relationship yah know. How would he feel when the
one person he did pick, looks at someone else. Yeah, I think he’d have issues
with it.”
“Hmm…”
Charlie ushered them two men outside on the back patio and motioned for them to
sit. “Please, will you sit down?”
Joey and Justin both sat on steady lawn chairs; Charlie sat across from them on
a swinging bench. Joey withdrew his pocket notebook and flipped toward the back.
He sat at the edge of the chair leaning forward, “Okay. I guess were ready to
begin then.” Justin nodded his head. “Well, first of all where were you when
Dominic first was noticed missing.”
“I was working the night he disappeared. I work at a coffee shop just across
the street from Zinfield’s.”
“No shit. Jamoke’s?”
“Justin?”
“Oh sorry. Go on.”
“How long have you worked at the coffee shop, Charlie?”
“Not long. About six months or so.”
“Wait,” Justin interrupted shaking his head. “If Dominic was a college
student and you work at Jamoke’s, how the hell did you two afford this
house?”
“Justin,” Joey whined covering his face. “I don’t think that information
is all that important.”
“Humor me, please, Charlie.”
“Well, Dominic’s dad owns it. When Dominic first came out to his
parents…”
“Whoa… stop right there. Dominic was gay, are you?”
“Yes I’m gay, but Dominic was bisexual.”
“Really? That’s interesting. Sorry for stopping you, go on.”
“Well, his mother nearly had a heart attack, his dad, however, was cool with
it. He knew we’d have a hard time as a couple so he gave us this place. We
pay… I mean I pay for the upkeep and such, but otherwise it’s paid for.”
“Interesting.”
Joey cleared his throat, “May I continue,” Justin nodded his head, “good.
Now Charlie where was the last place you remember him going to or being seen
at.”
The blond shrugged his shoulders. “The last time I talked to him, he said he
was going out with a group of friends to go clubbing. He didn’t tell me which
one, just that I shouldn’t wait up for him.”
“But you did?” Justin asked.
Charlie looked into Justin’s azure eyes, “Yeah,” he whispered.
“That’s how you knew he was missing right,” Justin asked.
Charlie nodded his head. “I waited all night and the next day, cuz I didn’t
want to call 911 just to find out he stayed at a friends house to sleep it off.
When he didn’t come back by eight o’clock the next day, I called the police
and filed a missing persons report.”
“You what?”
“Justin,” Joey faced the blond detective. “I don’t recall a missing
persons report on Dominic, do you?”
“No, that’s what I was gonna ask you.”
“I filed one, I know I did.”
Justin leaned forward, “Did you file with City Patrol or a different precinct?
Just a little over twenty-four hours after he went missing, right.”
“I don’t…I don’t know. I called 911 and they patched me into the missing
persons people. They filed it because it was over twenty-four hours. That’s
all I know.”
The younger blond rubbed his chin as he thought about the recent developments.
The profile seemed to be coming together. He just needed a few more bits of
information. “One more question.”
“Yes, Detective Timberlake.”
“What’s that structure out there in the trees for?”
Charlie laughed. “That was Dominic’s idea. He wanted to be closer to the
birds so he built that hideous thing.”
“Do you mind if we check it out,” Joey asked.
“Not at all. Feel free.”
The two detectives stood up and shook Charlie’s hand. Justin expected another
vision but none came, which would collaborate Charlie’s story, that he indeed
was nowhere near Dominic when he was taken. “Thank you for your time, Mr.
Paterson and we are sorry for you loss.”
“Thank you Detective Fatone. I hope you find this guy.”
“So do we, Mr. Paterson. So do we.”
**
Lance pulled up in front of Jamoke’s emphatically looking for a place to park,
stopping traffic.
“Hey,” a driver screamed out his window, “Get the hell out of the way you
moron.”
“Fuck you,” Lance replied sticking his middle finger out the window.
“Geez, give a guy a second here,” he mumbled. When Lance couldn’t find a
parking place near the entrance he went around the block. As he approached the
coffee shop once more he found a spot and double-parked. He quickly opened his
door and removed himself from his vehicle hoping he could get JC in time to
avoid getting a ticket. He ran toward the front door, nearly knocking over a
young woman. “Excuse me, miss.” Without even acknowledging him the woman
continued out the door and down the street. “Bitch,” he mumbled.
Lance scanned the coffee shop looking for JC. He finally found the brunette
huddled in a corner booth away from the other patrons, his back toward the door,
knees pulled up to his chest. The blond man smiled at the sight and casually
walked the short distance between them. Upon reaching the spacious booth he sat
down on the opposite side from his friend.
“Hey,” Lance said as he grasped the hand of JC’s that was not gracefully
wrapped around a coffee mug. When JC looked away from the window and toward the
blond, Lance gasped. “What the fuck?” Other patrons within Jamoke’s turned
and looked in their direction. Lance lowered his voice, “What the fuck
happened to you?”
JC jerked in response. “Lance, I didn’t hear you come in.”
“Maybe because you decided to sit in BFE,” the blond teased.
JC smiled, “You think.”
“Let’s get out of here and then you can tell me what the hell happened to
your face. And if Justin has anything to do with it, I’m seriously gonna kill
him.”
“What? No. Why does everyone keep saying that? Do I honestly look that weak,
that I would let my boyfriend beat me?”
“JC,” Lance whispered. “Everyone is staring. You need to keep your voice
down.”
“Why?” JC challenged.
“Sweetheart,” the blond said through clenched teeth, “were in public.”
“I know where we are, Lance.”
“Okay then,” the blond said. “Now that we have the settled let’s get out
of here. I’m illegally parked.”
“Um, did you bring money?” JC asked shyly running his fingertips around the
edge of the coffee cup.
“What? JC please tell me you didn’t order that coffee without any means of
paying for it.”
“Um…well. You see…I…”
“God, never mind. Sometimes JC…” Lance placed a five-dollar bill on the
table and watched JC stand up. He turned his back toward Lance and began
sauntering out of Jamoke’s. The brunette coyly looked over his shoulder,
“Are you coming or what, darling,” he winked. Lance chuckled and then stood
up, following his friend out the door.
“First things, first,” JC said as Lance opened the passenger side door for
him.
“What’s that?” the blond responded as he made his way around the car.
“I need you to take me to my house; I need my cloths and music for tonight.”
JC pulled the heavy door shut and turned his body toward Lance, who finished
climbing in.
Lance glanced over at JC, “I really don’t think Lou’s gonna let you dance
tonight.” The blond turned the key starting his blue Grand Am. “I think
he’s gonna make you stick to tables.”
“He’s gotta let me dance after the day I’ve had. I’ll just explain it to
him. He'll be all right with it.”
“Sweetie, I really don’t…”
“Lance, I don’t want to hear negative things for the rest of the day, okay.
Just humor me.”
“Whatever,” Lance replied steering the car carefully out of his parking
area. Looking over his shoulder he began the slow stop-go movement trying
desperately to weasel his way into traffic. “Man I hate it when people won’t
let you in. Even if your damn blinker is on, they still fucking won’t let you
in.”
JC softly laughed, “I know what you mean. Sometimes it takes me like fifteen
minutes to get out of Zinfield’s parking lot.”
Lance once again stole a look at JC; eyeing the bruised lip and chin. “So, are
you gonna tell me what happened, or am I gonna have to guess.”
“Quite honestly, Lance, I don’t want to talk about it,” JC replied while
picking at lint on his slacks. “I’ve had a really shitty day and it just
keeps snowballing.” He met Lance’s emerald eyes. “Let’s just leave it at
that, can we?”
“Sure thing, but when you’re ready…”
“I know, honey, I know.”
**
The two detectives carefully made their way toward the bird watching structure.
They tiptoed through the area trying not to disrupt any evidence that they may
find. Joey had walked back to the car and pulled from the trunk, evidence bags
as well as a small kit. Joey placed the articles on the ground near the base of
the tree and signaled Justin forward. “I don’t see anything out of the
ordinary, do you?” he said placing gloves over his hands.
“No, not yet, but keep looking. I’ve got a bad feeling about this
landing.”
Joey shrugged his shoulders, “Okay, so do we go up?”
“I think so.” Joey handed a pair of gloves to Justin and he quickly put them
on. The young blond followed the brunette up the makeshift ladder. Upon reaching
the top, they were greeted with empty space.
Joey crawled into the spacious area waiting for Justin. He yelled down, “Wow
this place is bigger than my bedroom.”
“It is not,” Justin answered as he peeked his head over the edge. “Okay,
maybe it is. Wow this is huge for bird watching.” The profiler attempted
swinging is leg over the edge but the opening wasn’t large enough, so he
cautiously climbed on the landing. Instantly a vision accosted his mind.
The two bodies were intertwined; hands roaming mouths wet. They were
oblivious in regards to the things that went on around them, just outside their
home. They passionately kissed as their hands and legs moved against each other,
feeling each other. Their bodies were naked, hair drenched and sweaty as they
rocked hard against one another. Crimson sheets clung desperately onto the
undulating forms, daring an attempt at covering their lovemaking. The dark
haired individual resembled Dominic; the fair-haired one Charlie. They moved
with each other as if they were meant for each other; as if they were one: body,
soul and mind. Justin closed his eyes from the sight, vaguely determining
where the view was coming from, where am I watching from, he thought. The
blond watcher opened his eyes in time for their connection, Charlie laying on
Dominic’s back, balanced on one arm reaching between them, aligning them and
then slowly rolling his cock into his boyfriend. His thrusts were deep and long;
his arms strained with his own weight. Justin watched for a few seconds more,
until he heard a stirring beside him.
He turned his head and observed another man sitting next to him, unaware of
his presence. The faceless man had his pants unzipped, hand wrapped around his
arousal and cursing at the couple before them. The man turned his head and
Justin was greeted with a white empty space where the man’s face was supposed
to be. Justin jerked away and the ghostly man spoke, “I hate faggots.
Look what they do to me. It’s their fault; they can’t make up their minds.
If they would just make up their minds.”
The form reached for him and Justin fell backward trying to avoid his grasp. He
would have fallen from the perch but his wrist was clutched by Joey’s strong
handhold. “Justin,” his partner screamed.
“Wha…what? Ahh…”
“I’ve got you. Shift your weight.”
Justin did what he was told, moving his body forward. His breathing was labored,
chest heaving. The blond placed a shaking hand against his chest calming his
self down. “What happened, Joey?”
“You spaced on me.”
“I did?”
“Yeah, you did and pretty hard core if you ask me. You were totally out of
it.” Joey paused, “May I ask?”
“It was weird that’s for sure. I can tell you this, the killer stalked
Dominic.”
“How do you know that?”
“Let’s just say I know.” Justin stood up and looked toward the house. He
tilted his head and stared harder walking closer to the edge of the bird watch.
“What the hell?”
“What is it?”
“Joey, go back to the house and ask Charlie if he’ll let you go into that
room, right there.”
“The one with the curtains closed.”
Justin nodded his head, “Yes. Open the curtains for me.”
“All right.” Joey climbed down the ladder and ran toward the house. Justin
watched his friend disappear around the corner and waited patiently. It was only
a matter of minutes until Justin saw Joey in the window. The blond squinted his
eyes as he peered at Joey. “Hmm… this looks like the same view from my
vision but I can’t see into the room.” Justin motioned Joey to open the
window.
“What?”
“Joey, what room are you in?”
“The bedroom.”
Justin closed his eyes. He watched them. He watched them make love and got
off on it. This guy is sick. He watched them from this very spot, but he
must’ve had some very powerful binoculars, Justin thought. These
murders are definitely not random by any means. He stalks them.
The blond detective jumped from the second to last rung on the ladder, picked up
Joey’s kit and made his way toward the car. He slung the box under his arm as
he looked in the direction of the western horizon and realized it was late. A
twig broke signaling Justin that Joey was near. He casually glanced over his
shoulder acknowledging the larger man. “Let’s get going Joey. It’s pretty
late and I want to catch JC before he leaves for Lou’s.”
“We’ve got everything we need from here?” Joey questioned.
“I’m thinking, yeah.”
Joey hustled the rest of the way toward the car and opened the door; Justin was
already inside. “Alright, we’re outta here.” Joey slowly inched away from
the curb, pulling into Charlie’s driveway and turning around; headed for the
precinct.
The time passed slowly for Justin as he looked at the clock more than the couple
times. “Hey, Joey.”
“Yeah.”
“So,” he picked at his pants once again. “What’s up between you and
Chris?”
“Justin how many times do I have to tell you? Nothing is going on between
us.”
“Honestly?”
“Scouts honor.”
“Assuming you were a boy scout,” Justin smiled. “I mean of all people
I’d be the most understanding of a same sex relationship.”
“What makes you think I’m even gay?”
Justin shrugged, “I don’t know, just some of the things you do. Especially,
while Chris is around. You just seem more sensitive. Ya, know.”
“No, Justin I don’t.”
“Just answer me this, are you gay?”
Joey sighed, “You not gonna give this up are you?”
“Nope.”
“Fine. I’m not gay, Justin. I guess you’d consider me bisexual, but a lean
more towards women.” He shook his head, “Man I can’t believe I’m gonna
tell you this.” He paused and gathered his wits, “There has only been one
guy.”
“Chris,” Justin whispered.
“Yeah,” Joey closed his eyes briefly, “Chris.”
“What happened? I mean evidently you’re not together anymore, right?”
“Right, we decided that a relationship just wasn’t gonna work with both of
us working at the station. I still think it was the best decision.”
“Do you still have feelings for him?”
“Not like you and JC, but of course. He’s basically moved on, I think.”
“Sure didn’t sound like it while we were at the crime scene.”
“Well, he gets jealous a lot, but as far as I know he’s with someone right
now. I even think it a woman.”
“Wow, who would’ve thought?”
“Justin, it isn’t unnatural. There’re a lot of people who are attracted to
both sexes. Some men are simply beautiful and its natural to look at them.”
“JC,” Justin blushed.
“JC for one, but you as well, Justin. I’m sure there is many a guy looking
at you when you walk by. It's natural to stare at beauty in motion.”
“When did you get to be such a charmer?”
“I’ve always been, I've just never used it on you before,” both men
laughed. “We better hurry up and get you back to the station so you’re able
to see JC off.” Justin smiled at the thought.