Part 6

Lee barely left the Agency. Why should he go home? The house was terribly desolate without Amanda around. He was just beginning to understand how Amanda had felt over the last few weeks. His usual open door policy at the office had changed drastically. Lee's door was now closed - always. His agents now avoided him; with his composure worn thin, he tended to take his frustrations out on them.

A knock as his door intruded into his gloom. He barked angrily, "Who is it?"

"So I guess the nasty rumors are true then, you have turned into a crusty curmudgeon," Harry Thornton commented with little tact as he walked in unannounced.

"Harry!" Lee said in surprise, managing a smile. "It's good to see you."

"Wish I could say the same," Harry answered as he pushed the door closed. "What the hell's going on with you?"

Lee shrugged, playing innocent.

"Come on, Lee. You were chosen for this position for several reasons. One of them was the stability of your home life. However, that seems to have gone by the wayside. What's going on between you and Amanda," Harry demanded, point blank.

"I don't see how my personal life has any bearing on my ability to do my job," Lee snarled back at him.

"Lee, don't kid yourself. Look around. This job requires agents who respect you and an ability to make life and death decisions instantly. At the moment you have neither. This isn't an easy job, never will be and not everyone has the ability to juggle the responsibilities it requires."

"Are you implying that I'm not doing my job?" Lee argued angrily.

Harry ignored his last question, not really wanting to answer it. "Lee, when's the last time you saw your wife?"

Lee hung his head; he couldn't look him in the eyes. "Monday night. After the incident with the Mongoose."

"Lee, that was four days ago."

"Harry, what am I supposed to do? She doesn't want to talk to me, let alone see me."

Harry sat down in a chair and shook his head sadly. "Lee, you have an amazing staff here. I shouldn't have to tell you that. You've worked with some of them for years; hell, you've trained half of them. You need to learn to use them. You don't have to do it all yourself; you can't do it all yourself."

"That's easier said than done. When they screw up, I'm the one who gets the call from Pennsylvania Avenue or the hospital," Lee complained.

"We're talking about your wife again aren't we? You need to talk to her. Put your personal life back together and things here will fall back into place. Your wife is one of your biggest assets, but you've shut her out; pushed her away," Harry reminded her.

"It hasn't been all my fault," Lee pointed out in a defensive tone.

"True, although given how you reacted the other day at the hospital, perhaps the board was correct about not letting her work directly under you," Harry suggested.

"You heard about that too, huh?" Lee said uncomfortably.

"Lee, there's not a whole lot I don't hear about around here. Now you know you're like a son to me, and Amanda's like a daughter. So I expect you to get that chip off your shoulder, shake off what happened last week and start acting like the Section Chief around here," Harry answered with a no nonsense tone.

"Yes, sir," Lee answered with an appreciative smile.

"And, Lee, go home every once in a while. Get some sleep. Who knows, your wife might even call you there," Harry suggested.

"Do you know something I don't?" Lee asked curiously. He had been hoping Amanda would call after her talk with Emily the other day, but so far she hadn't.

"No, I wish I did. But just in case you're at the office when she calls, you might want to have your calls forwarded to you here."

"Thanks for the pep talk, Harry," Lee confided.

"Hang in there, Lee. Things will get better," Harry said as he got up and opened the door. "Should I close it on my way out?"

Lee shook his head. "No, leave it open," he answered with a smile as Harry Thornton headed out of the bullpen.

*** *** ***

Sunday morning, Amanda drove back from the Jersey shore to the Key Bridge Marriott in Arlington arriving a few minutes before eleven. Emily was waiting in the lobby when she spotted her walking down the hallway.

"Amanda!" she waved as she crossed the lobby.

"Emily!" Amanda answered as she hugged her elder friend. "How are you?"

"I was going to ask you the same thing," Emily said with more than a hint of concern.

"Emily," Amanda sighed as the bear hug subsided.

"Come on," Emily replied as she took her by the arm and led her into the dining room. "We have all afternoon to talk about that."

"That's what I was afraid of," Amanda mumbled under her breath.

The buffet was lavish, serving breakfast, lunch and the most exquisite desserts. The champagne was also free flowing. After snacking, sampling, and stuffing themselves with a variety of tasty delicacies, Emily sat back in her chair. "I couldn't eat another bite."

Amanda, finishing her glass of champagne did the same. "I know what you mean."

"You hardly ate a thing, my dear," Emily noted. "Something on your mind?"

"I gather you've been talking to Lee," Amanda replied with a sigh, knowing this conversation was inevitable.

"Have you seen him?"

Amanda shook her head. "Not since last Monday."

"I'm ashamed of you, Amanda!" Emily commented.

"Me?" Amanda rebuked with a look of shock on her face. "There are two sides to this story. You have no idea what he's been like the last few months."

"Yes, I'm certain there are two sides to this story. How about we go upstairs and you can fill me in on what has really been happening," Emily said reassuringly.

Amanda sat down almost in the same spot Lee had a few days before. She grabbed one of the overstuffed pillows, pulling it to her protectively. Emily took a chair opposite Amanda, allowing her some space.

"It all started back in June. Billy took Lee aside and told him that he was going to retire. Billy was recommending to the board that Lee replace him and wanted to know whether Lee was interested in the position or not. Lee was thrilled. I wasn't. You know Lee. You know the way he tackles every assignment. I knew this was going to happen - the long days, the calls in the middle of the night. I pleaded with him not to take the job, but he kept telling me I was wrong, that it wouldn't be like that. But it was everything I thought it would be and worse." Amanda sighed heavily, strangling the pillow she held on her lap.

"Lee told me it had been a hectic summer," Emily remarked.

"It was," Amanda concurred, "but that's only the half of it. After the board approved Lee, they announced that I couldn't keep my old job - that I wouldn't be permitted to work directly under Lee. So they reassigned me."

"But Lee said you chose your new position," Emily commented with some surprise.

"Well, technically I did. My choices were rather limited, Causal Surveillance, Accounting or Polygrapher. Not exactly the top ten list of exciting career paths."

"I see," Emily said sympathetically.

"I think Lee was pleased. Casual Surveillance is usually a 'safe' job. He's wanted me out of the line of fire for years now. I wonder if he knew before he was appointed that I would be made to transfer," Amanda said with a trace of bitterness.

"Have you talked to Lee about any of this?" Emily wondered aloud.

"Talk to Lee?" Amanda scoffed. "We barely share a bed these days! He wanders in at the wee hours of the morning, exhausted, usually just collapses in bed. He's up most days before dawn. He cancels, misses or forgets our lunch meetings, dinner engagements, and weekend plans. You name it, and he's missed it. But the worse was last Monday. I spotted the Mongoose while on Casual Surveillance at the airport. He shot at me and I was grazed," Amanda explained in a whisper as she rubbed her wound. "Lee caused this awful scene at the hospital and suspended me. But I don't suppose he mentioned that when he talked to you?"

"Actually, Amanda, he did," Emily answered in a serious tone. "I think he's afraid he's lost you."

"I think I've lost him. Everyone always thought Lee would leave me for a more sophisticated, exciting woman. When we first started dating, I use to wonder that as well. But I'm losing him to the Agency, not another woman," Amanda reflected sadly as tears began to fall. "How can I compete against that?"

Lady Farnsworth got up and grabbed a box of tissues. Then she sat down next to her friend, handing her a tissue and placing a comforting arm around her for support. "My dear, Amanda, your husband sat in this very spot just the other night telling me how sorry he had been for hurting you as badly as he has. You haven't lost him, but you can't keep avoiding him either. You need to start talking again."

Amanda wiped her tears and turned towards Emily. "How can I talk to him when he's never at home? At the office there are three other agents under foot whenever I can find him. How can I get his attention?"

"Trust me, dear," Emily answered, with a knowing smile. "You have his attention now."

Amanda slumped back against the sofa. Her heart was aching. She whispered honestly, "I still love him you know. I just don't know if I can live with being second place in his heart. This is how my first marriage started to fall apart."

Emily frowned; she could see her anguish, but she was heartened by Amanda's admission of her true feelings for her husband. She didn't know the details of her failed first marriage, all she knew was that she had to get them talking again. "I don't honestly think you have ever been second in his heart and you're certainly not now, not as long as I've known the two of you anyway."

"So where do we go from here, Emily?" Amanda questioned. "I just can't go home as if nothing's happened or nothing will change."

"The phone's over there," Emily nodded. "It's a good place to start. I saw some postcards downstairs in the gift shop that I wanted to pick up for some friends. I'll be back, in say, twenty minutes."

Amanda smiled at her friend as the door closed leaving her alone in the large suite. She looked over at the phone that sat just a few feet away. She finally got up and dialed the familiar number.
 

* ** **

The phone rang twice before Lee picked it up. "Stetson."

"You're home?" Amanda answered with surprise.

"Actually, no, I'm at the office. I've had all the calls forwarded here," Lee explained. "I was hoping you'd call."

Amanda sighed in frustration. Even now the Agency came first, just like it had been with Joe and Estoccia. "I see," she answered soberly.

Lee noted the tone of her voice. "So where are you?"

"I'm at the Marriott. I'll be staying with Emily for a few days; you know, to catch up," she advised.

"Oh, I see," he replied gloomily. He had hoped that Emily would convince her to come back home, not offer her a place to stay. The silence on the phone seemed to last forever as the once close couple struggled to express their pain and hurt to each other. Finally Lee broke the silence. "Would you mind if I came over? To, ah, see you," he asked nervously.

"Well, I don't know what Emily's plans are for today. I don't want to put her out," Amanda answered.

"Then meet me at the house," Lee suggested.

"No, I'm not ready to come home yet," she replied, determined not to feel pressured by him. She was still reluctant to see him. The emotional wounds from last week still vivid in her mind.

Lee was getting frustrated. He wanted to see her in person, to set things right. "Amanda, please. I know I've been the biggest jerk over the last few weeks and last Monday, what I did at the hospital was inexcusable. I love you and I want to see you. You name the time and the place - I'll be there. No more excuses."

Tears came to Amanda's eyes. It had been weeks since he had told her he loved her. She missed hearing him say that to her. After taking a deep breath, she finally replied softly, "I love you, too."

Lee sat back in his chair, relief washing over him. "So you'll meet me?"

After a long pause, she answered with a smile in her voice. "Yeah, I'll meet you."

"Where?" he blurted out immediately.

Amanda had to think about that. She didn't want to meet him at the house and definitely not at the Agency. Where could they meet that would be neutral ground - public, yet private?

"How about dinner?" Lee finally suggested, again breaking the silence. "Someplace nice and quiet…"

"We ate a really big brunch," she interrupted, still not sure what to do.

"Coffee then or dessert? Amanda, please," he pleaded.

"OK, maybe coffee. Say about four in the hotel coffee shop,"

"I'll see you then," Lee replied. He'd be there, no matter what. "And, Amanda, I meant what I said, I love you and I miss you."

"I'll see you in a while, Lee," she answered and quickly hung up the phone.

*** ***

Amanda convinced Emily to accompany her down to the coffee shop at four. Lee was already downstairs waiting for her. He smiled when he saw Amanda and stood up as they neared the table. He greeted Amanda with a hug and a kiss, which was coolly received. Next he hugged Emily and whispered in her ear. "Do I even have a chance?"

Emily hugged him back, whispering softly. "Of course you do, my boy."

Lee tried to cover his frustration with nervous conversation. "So how have you been? The drive home was OK? No problems with the car?"

Emily looked over at Lee and rolled her eyes. Amanda tried to suppress a laugh. "You're starting to sound like me, Lee. I'm OK," she answered without much conviction. "The drive was fine; the car's fine."

The waitress came over at that moment and they ordered. After she left an uneasy silence encompassed the table. Finally Lee reached in to his coat pocket and pulled out an envelope.

"What's that? My reinstatement papers or am I still on suspension?" Amanda asked accusingly.

Lee's face flushed at her tone, but to all intents and purposes, he deserved that comment and more. "Ah, no. Officially you were never suspended; Arty put you on medical leave. Once I had all the facts, it was perfectly clear that I was wrong. I regret that whole incident at the hospital - more than I can tell you. These are copies of commendations that are already in your personnel file; one from Arthur Reed praising your actions at the airport and one from me lauding your actions at the motel."

"Oh," Amanda said in surprise. She looked down at the envelope sitting on the table.

"If you're not going to look at them, I am!" Emily announced as she plucked the envelope from its resting-place just in front of Amanda. She opened it up, reading them both and smiling over to Amanda. "You should be quite proud, Amanda. If it hadn't been for your quick action, both at the airport and later at the motel, the Mongoose would still be on the loose creating all kinds of havoc."

"She's right, Amanda. You did an excellent job," Lee concurred.

Amanda looked away and mumbled, "Thank you."

"So can Arty expect you back tomorrow?" he presumed eagerly.

Amanda shook her head, no. "My shoulders still a bit weak; maybe after the stitches come out."

"Maybe you should have Dr. McJohn take a look at it?" Lee suggested.

"No, I'm sure it will be fine in a few more days," Amanda replied, shrugging off his advice. Then the silence resumed at the table again.

Finally, it was Lady Farnsworth who made her opinion clear. "OK you two, enough is enough. Amanda, Lee has messed up royally over the last few months. He's the first to admit that. The question is, are you a big enough person to forgive him and give him another chance? I think you two have too much to lose to call it quits now. I love you both, but I'm done playing referee. So if you'll excuse me, I think I'll go upstairs to my room. I have some writing that needs attending."

Emily got up from the table without another word and left the room. Both Lee and Amanda sat quietly. Neither knew what to say.

Amanda finally reached out for the two letters on the table. She picked them up and read the two glowing commendations. "Thank you, Lee," she finally choked out.

"I meant every word. I'm proud of the way you handled yourself. You always have made me proud. You're as good an agent as there is. The board should have never made you transfer, and for that I am truly sorry. I can't change what has happened, but I can change what will happen from here on out," he said earnestly.

"I want to believe that, Lee. Honestly I do," she whispered with strong emotions wavering in her voice.

"Just promise me you'll give me another chance. Let me prove it to you. I swear to you, I won't let you down again," Lee pleaded.

"How about we take it a day at a time," Amanda suggested, still concerned about whether this was just another promise to be broken.

"Then you'll come home?" he asked hopefully.

Amanda looked at Lee with a pained face. She croaked out uncomfortably, "Lee, I'm just not ready to do that yet. The last few months have been really hard on me. You get a promotion and I get demoted…"

Lee interrupted. "Amanda, you were transferred, not demoted." She looked him steadily in the eye until he looked away. "It was a transfer. It had nothing to do with your abilities and we both know that."

"Lee, you know I had mixed emotions about your promotion. I was proud and happy for you, but at the same time I felt angry and left out. I know that's a terrible thing, but it's true. You're never around anymore. I thought when Jamie left for college you and I would have time to do things together. Things we never had the chance to do before," she paused and blinked back the tears that were starting to form. "But in the last few weeks, I've spent more time with Jamie than I have with you - and he's living at college! I want to grow old with you, not alone."

Lee looked back into her anguished eyes, seeing the pain he had caused her. "I love you. I haven't said that enough lately, and my actions lately have been inexcusable. Things will change, I promise you that. Things will be better; they'll be different this time. Just give me another chance…"

Amanda sighed. She wanted to believe him, but she had heard those empty words before. The story was the same, just this time it was Lee, not Joe. Amanda couldn't sit still anymore. Ghosts from her past began to overwhelm her. "Lee, I can't…." She said shakily and she stood up abruptly; her chair screeched loudly as it scraped across the tile floor.

"Amanda?" Lee called after her as she ran from the café, but she didn't stop. He threw a few bills on the table and headed after her, but she had disappeared into the elevator...

End Part 6
 
 
 
 
 

Friends and Enemies Part 7

Lee really wanted to go after Amanda, but his instincts told him to give her some time. Instead he called Emily early the next morning, hoping to get some insight on what his wife was feeling.

"Good morning," Emily answered the phone.

"Morning, Emily. I didn't wake you, did I?" he asked.

"Goodness no. I've been tiptoeing around up here for the last hour. I didn't want to wake Amanda," she replied.

Lee was silent for a moment; he knew Amanda was an early riser. "Emily, are you sure she's not up yet?"

"If she is, she's been quiet as a mouse."

Lee had a growing sense of dread. "Emily, she is still there isn't she?"

"Well of course she is. Why wouldn't she be?" Emily asked.

"Amanda's usually an early riser. Would you mind checking her room?"

"Very well, Lee," Emily shrugged, as she put down the phone and crossed the room. She tapped lightly on her door, but there was no answer. She rapped louder, more insistently the second time, still no answer. Then she called out to her. "Amanda, dear, are you up?" Finally she opened the door, slowly as not to startle her guest. The room was empty; the bed had been slept in, but was tidied neatly. On the middle of the bed, on hotel stationary, was a note from Amanda. She quickly read it. 'Emily, thanks for lunch and your gracious hospitality. I promise to call you in a few days, Love, Amanda'.

Emily went back to the sitting room and picked up the phone. In a deflated tone she replied, "You were right, my dear. She left."

He had already known it. He should have gone after her last night, but he didn't know what to say. "Do you have any idea where she went? Did she leave a note?"

"Yes, but she didn't say where she was going. Only that she'll call me in a few days," Emily sighed, feeling that she had let Lee down. "I'm really sorry, Lee."

He sank down in his chair despondently. He had hoped yesterday would have been the first step towards reconciliation, but now it seemed that it was anything but. "It's not your fault, Emily. This is my own doing. I appreciate what you've done already," Lee paused, then asked one final question. "Did she say anything yesterday when she got back to the suite? I must have said something to upset her; I'm just not sure what."

"She was pensive last night, Lee, I thought maybe she had decided to go back home. I didn't want to pry, so I never asked. We just watched television for a while, chatted about nothing in particular, then she went to bed early," she explained.

"Thanks, Emily," he said. "If you hear from her, please let me know."

"I will, straight away," she promised before she hung up the phone.

*** *** ***

Wednesday morning, Lee was sitting at his desk, absorbed in a file he'd worked on years before. He was re-reading Amanda and Joe Kings divorce decree and the paperwork that accompanied it. The phone rang; he grabbed it quickly. His hope that it would be Amanda had long ago diminished. "Stetson," he answered tersely.

"Lee, is everything all right?"

"Phillip?" he asked with a sense of urgency. "What's wrong?"

"Is there an Agency problem I should know about?"

"No, you would have been told and we would have sent someone down to your campus to protect you if there was. Why do you ask?" Lee queried.

"Mom's been here since Monday night. She's acting kind of weird. I thought maybe you sent her."

"Your Mom's with you?" Lee breathed a sigh of relief, glad to know where his wife was, but still not sure what was going on in her head. "No, I didn't send her. It's not an Agency problem," he stammered. "We're uh, kind of, well… it's personal."

"Oh, I see," Phillip replied with a definite change in the tone of his voice. There was a deafening silence over the phone line before he continued with a direct question. "You two are splitting up, aren't you?"

"No, of course not," Lee answered quickly. Then he thought for a second, wondering why his stepson would jump to such a hasty conclusion. "Phillip, why would you think that? Did your mother say something to you?"

"No, Mom didn't say anything. I was just guessing," he replied uncomfortably, remembering how little Lee had been around late in the summer.

"Phillip, why would you think we were splitting up?" Lee asked again; he was confused. In the past Phillip had always been supportive of his relationship with his mother. He knew their marriage was built on love and respect.

"Lee," he answered uneasily, "I don't want to end up in the middle of this."

"Phillip, please," he pleaded. "You called because you were concerned for your Mom. A lot has happened over the last few months that I'm not real proud of. I've let my new job consume me to the point where I've neglected my relationship with her, but I'm trying to set things straight. Help me? Tell me what's going on with her."

"You're going to think I'm crazy; I was only a little kid when she and Dad split up, but she's acting the way she did then," he finally admitted.

Lee ran his hand nervously through his hair. A dawning of understanding came over him like a brilliant flash of light. All of his apologies, his words to Amanda were meaningless. She had heard them before, over and over again from Joe, yet their marriage was dissolved by divorce. Amanda was running from her past right into what she was certain would be her future. In many ways, Lee had mimicked what Joe had done to her. First he had taken a job she hadn't wanted him to take, leaving her few options for her own career. Secondly, he had taken on that job with such zeal that he nearly abandoned her the same way Joe had. It wasn't a continent that divided them; it was his actions or lack of them.

"Phillip, I need a favor from you," he started. "I've got to take care of a few things at the office, then I'm coming down to see your Mom."

"Lee, I don't know. If Mom wanted to see you she wouldn't be here, she'd be at home. Just forget I called and…"

"Phillip, please. I've never asked you for anything before. This is important. I need to talk to your mother. Please do this for me? If she wants me to go, I will. I promise," Lee pleaded anxiously.

Again there was a nervous silence on the phone. "OK, we're going to dinner at five. We'll be back in my room after six. My roommate is working tonight until nine, so you two can talk. If Mom doesn't want to see you, you have to go - agreed?"

"Agreed. Phillip, thanks," Lee replied with feeling.

"See you later," he answered as he hung up the phone.

*** *** ***

Lee waited in Phillip's dorm room; it was just after six. He paced the room nervously, hoping the minutes would pass quickly. He still didn't know what he was going to say to his wife. Would she be angry with him? With Phillip? He stared out the window at nothing in particular. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves displaying their brilliant hues of orange and red mimicking the sky as the sun's rays started to yield to the horizon. It was a few minutes later that he heard Amanda and Phillip's familiar voices. He turned away from the serene view and watched them come into the room.

"Lee!" Amanda said in startled surprise as she stopped mid-stride.

"Amanda," he smiled at his wife and extended his hand to his stepson. "Phillip, good to see you."

Amanda stared at Lee and then back at her son and asked. "You called him, didn't you?"

"I was worried about you, Mom. Maybe I was wrong for doing it, I hope not. You always taught me to do the right thing," Phillip replied. "I think I have. Now if you'll excuse me, I really should hit the books, I've got a calculus exam tomorrow. I'll be in the library."

"Amanda, don't be angry with him," Lee said as her son headed out of the room. "I would have come down to see you even if he hadn't agreed to help arrange this meeting."

"I'm not angry…"

"Amanda, you need to stop running from me. I'll pack a few bags, I'll move out of the house. Just come home," Lee pleaded.

"You don't understand," Amanda started.

"I understand more than you think," Lee said to her, thinking about Amanda and Joe's divorce papers, which he had read earlier in the day. "I'm done with saying I'm sorry and I've changed. I'm here tonight to show you that YOU are number one in my life - not the Agency. I'll prove it to you if you'll give me the chance."

Amanda stood in the small dorm room speechless. Actions were more important than words. With Joe there had always been long apologies with just another excuse tacked onto the ending. She bit her lip, not knowing what to say. Finally she nodded in agreement. "I'll be home in the morning."

Lee smiled; it was a small victory, but a first step none the less. "I'll pack some things tonight; I'll be out before you get home."

She nodded her consent.

"Can I see you for dinner tomorrow night? Anywhere you'd like," Lee asked, somewhat disappointed that she took him up on his offer to move out of the house.

"I guess; I'll call you when I get settled in. We'll set something up then," she answered awkwardly. She felt kind of strange to be setting up a 'date' with her husband.

"I love you," he said quietly as he looked directly into her pained eyes.

She took a deep breath and looked away. In a whispered voice she replied, "I love you, too."

Lee wanted to say more, but wasn't sure where to start. Their awkwardness was interrupted by two of Phillip's friends barging into the room.

"Where's Phillip?"

"He went down to the library," Amanda answered and they quickly exited without as much as a goodbye.

"How about going for a walk?" Lee suggested.

"It's getting dark and it's a bit cool. I left my jacket back at the motel," she replied. She saw the hurt look in his eyes at her quick dismissal of his idea. She felt a pang of guilt wash over her. Her own actions over the last week had been little better than his had been over the last few months. She decided to compromise. "How about you walk me to my car?"

Lee nodded and they headed out of Phillip's room and down the hallway. Lee's hand reached around his wife's back in the protective manner he was accustomed to. Amanda was keenly aware of the hand on the small of her back, guiding her gently. For the first time in several weeks she felt at ease with him, but when they reached her car the awkwardness returned.

"Um, I guess I'll talk to you tomorrow then?" Lee said as Amanda fumbled with her car keys.

She nodded. "I'll be home before noon. I'll call you around lunch time?"

"Sounds good," Lee answered, unsure what to do. He wanted to hold her in his arms. To kiss her passionately and awaken the desire and rekindle the closeness they once shared. He hesitated for a few seconds, then finally decided to go on instinct. He reached for her shoulders and carefully turned her towards him. His lips met with hers gently. It was a quick kiss, but one that she didn't reject.

"I'll see you tomorrow then? Drive carefully," she answered, somewhat flustered as she unlocked her car and got inside.

"Drive careful yourself," Lee interjected. "I love you."

Amanda closed the door, looked up at Lee and mouthed the words - 'I love you, too,' as she turned the ignition key and started her car.

*** *** ***

They met at Emelio's the next evening; it was always a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. The service was attentive but not intrusive. Lee hoped it would be the perfect place for new beginnings. This was where, years ago, he had gotten to know the real Amanda King.

The conversation lagged at first, but as dinner progressed they began to find common ground. They talked about old times, before they had dated. They talked about the first few months they dated and the Stemwinder incident and the years that had followed. Before either of them realized, the waiter was clearing away the dinner dishes.

"You sure you don't want any dessert?" Lee asked, his hand comfortably covering hers. Without realizing it, Lee was caressing her wedding ring.

"No, thanks; I couldn't eat another bite." Amanda answered, as she looked down at Lee's hand resting on hers. Then she looked up into his sparkling eyes. For the first time in weeks, she wanted to be with him. The sensation of caring and closeness had again manifested themselves in their relationship. "But after all we just ate I could use a walk. Care to join me?"

Lee grinned. "I'd really like that."

They walked hand in hand into the cool autumn evening, a slight breeze stirred as they headed down to the Mall area. A sliver of a moon shone overhead and a few of the brighter stars twinkled down on them. It was a wonderful night for a walk. For a while neither of them spoke. They just enjoyed the relaxing companionship that for so many weeks they had lacked.

"I love the smell of autumn, don't you?" Lee commented as he kicked a pile of leaves that had accumulated on the sidewalk.

Amanda stopped abruptly. "Oh my gosh! I almost forgot to thank you for the flowers you sent; they're beautiful, thank you."

"You're welcome," he smiled as he squeezed her hand slightly. He had wondered if the florist hadn't made the delivery. He had every intention to 'court' her and show her he wanted her back.

"It slipped my mind; I was so nervous about tonight," she started, then hesitated. She tugged gently on his arm and headed towards a bench just off the sidewalk. "Funny isn't it? Being nervous about spending time with you. I don't know about you, but I'm scared. Ever since your promotion we - us, you and I, have been drifting apart."

Lee pulled her to him, holding her tightly in his arms. "I'm scared too. I was so busy trying to show everyone that I could handle the job, I neglected you - and the boys. I've done the same things that Joe did to you a dozen years ago, but I tell you this is not going to end the same way. I'm not going to lose you over my job. It's a difficult job, and it will take some juggling, and at times it will be inconvenient and I will miss things; you know that. But it will NOT be all consuming as it was. If it takes me the rest of my life to prove that to you, I will," Lee answered emphatically.

"I just worry that since our partnership at work is over, can our marriage survive?" Amanda said as she looked away, into the night sky above.

"You're still you; the crazy housewife-turned-spy that I fell in love with. The last two weeks I've been so lonely, I barely go home. I want to be with you - I miss you. Amanda, I love you."

"I love you too, and I've missed you," she whispered.

He pulled her towards him on the bench. "You're cold."

"The evening's getting a little nip to it," she replied with a nod as she tried to stifle a yawn.

Lee noticed the yawn. He didn't want the night to end, but he knew it was getting late. They had sat in Emelio's for almost two hours, talking and laughing. "Would you like my jacket?"

She nodded and he quickly slipped the jacket off and draped it over Amanda's shoulders.

"Would you mind if we headed back? I'm kind of tired. Maybe we can continue this conversation tomorrow night?"

"Ah, well," Lee hedged momentarily. "Amanda, I'm working the British Embassy's 'Fall Ball' tomorrow night. How about Saturday?"

Amanda shook her head. "Can't, I promised Mother that I'd go antique hunting with her Saturday. God knows when we'll be back."

"Seems like old times, huh?" he commented at their conflicting schedules.

"Yeah, the old us," she concurred.

"Wait a second. There really is no reason you couldn't come with me to the 'Fall Ball', as an unofficial set of eyes. If I get busy, Emily will be there. I'm sure she'll be glad to see you again."

"Yeah, I left her suite the other morning without saying goodbye," Amanda said guiltily.

"Great, then it's a date. I'll pick you up at seven," Lee said with a smile as he reached over for her hand and helped her up. Putting his arm around her protectively, they headed back towards their cars.

End Part 7
 
 
 

Friends and Enemies Part 8

Lee slowly headed up the front walk of the house. He didn't know what to do. 'Do I ring the bell or just walk on in?' he asked himself. He stood at the door embarrassed at his predicament. Finally deciding on ringing the bell, he stood nervously, straightening his jacket.

"Hi," Amanda smiled as she opened the door, dressed in a black, long sleeve gown, her hair pinned up, ringlets of curls cascading down around her face. "Come on in, I just need to find my purse and I'll be ready to go."

Lee waited until she came back downstairs. "I've got something I'd like you to wear tonight," he said as he took out a small box from his pocket.

Amanda opened the box. Inside were two heart shaped earrings with a diamond in the center. "Oh, Lee, they're beautiful."

He grinned. "They'll be even more beautiful once they're on you."

She blushed and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "They match my necklace," she smiled as she tugged on the familiar pendant the boys had given her years before.

"I thought they'd make a nice set," Lee concurred, failing to mention that he spent his entire lunch hour looking for the perfect match.

"Let me go put them on, I'll be right back."

*** *** ***

They arrived at the British embassy early. Lee had hoped to spend some time dancing with his wife and not second-guessing his staff. Harry was right; his staff was quite capable and he needed to show them that he trusted them.

Amanda quickly found Emily and chatted with her as Lee made his rounds checking security. Within the hour, confidant that everything was in order, Lee returned to Amanda's side as the guests began to arrive. His agents were working the ball with remarkable efficiency. They blended into the crowd well. After dinner was served the lights were dimmed, the orchestra began to play, and Lee asked Amanda to dance.

"You know, I didn't tell you before, but you look beautiful tonight," he whispered in her ear as they glided around the small dance floor.

"Thank you. I really love these earrings," she replied as she gently tugged on her earlobe.

Lee looked at her and smiled. "When I saw them in the store window I knew you had to have them."

"Window shopping at the jewelry store can be very expensive," she quipped.

"So can mending a broken heart," he answered as he pulled her closer to him on the crowded dance floor.

She rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. It felt good to be back in Lee's arms. For the first time in months they seemed to truly be together. She allowed her body to relax, letting the music fill her head with thoughts and dreams of a new beginning.

Lee looked down at his wife's soft face. The hurt and anger of the past weeks seemed to be a distant memory. Her face looked peaceful, happy. Lee smiled as his hand gently caressed her dark hair. She looked up at him and smiled. He kissed her forehead, and then as she tilted her head up he kissed her lips ever so gently. She put her head back down on his shoulder; Lee felt her sigh and sighed himself. The magic they shared was still very much alive, yet carefully hidden behind her dark brown eyes.

Lee thought of the irony of the situation. Years ago he had hidden his emotions, afraid to be hurt or abandoned. He had become the consummate professional at masking his true feelings and it was Amanda who made him come to terms with them. Now it was Amanda who was masking her feelings to protect herself from being hurt any further - by him.

Later that evening Lee danced with Lady Farnsworth. "I'm glad to see that you and Amanda are back together again," she noted.

"Not totally," Lee sighed. "She's back home, finally, but only after I offered to move out."

"Oh, Lee, it's just that you two looked so happy tonight," Emily stated. "I didn't realize it was just an act."

"It's not an act; at least I don't think it is. We had dinner last night and a nice walk afterwards. We've started talking again," he answered.

"Well it sounds like you're heading in the right direction," Emily smiled.

"I hope so, Emily," Lee answered.

The song was winding down and Emily looked back at the table where Amanda was sitting, watching the crowd. "Well, enough dancing with me. Go dance with that beautiful wife of yours. I can't leave for London until you two are back together," she stated firmly.

Lee chuckled at Emily's tone. He knew she meant every word she said. "Yes, Lady Farnsworth," he teased as he carefully led her back to the table.

Lee smiled down at Amanda. "May I have this dance?"

"How about you sit this one out. You must be a bit warm. I'll get you both a drink," Amanda answered distractedly, and headed towards the bar before either of them could answer.

She took the long way to the bar. Her eyes were suspiciously trained on a man who stood in the back of the room. She had first noticed him while she was dancing with Lee. She presumed he was waiting for his date. But the whole time Lee danced with Emily the man stood alone - out of place. She passed closely with her drinks in hand. Her eyes scanned him quickly, unobtrusively. Did she know him? He looked somewhat familiar, she knew it; but she just couldn't place him.

She handed the drinks over to Lee and Emily and quickly asked Emily. "The man, over by the dance floor. Who is he?"

Emily scanned the area. "The one with the glasses, standing by the back wall?"

"Yeah, him," Amanda nodded.

"I'm afraid I can't place his face," Emily answered.

Lee interjected, "Why do you ask?"

"He's been standing there for a while. He seems out of place, and I feel like I know him, but I can't place him either," Amanda answered, frustrated.

"He's probably waiting for his companion to come out of the wash room," Emily said with a smile.

"No, he's been standing there for the last few dances. He's barely moved."

"Amanda, you're here unofficially; you're supposed to be a guest tonight having a good time," Lee reminded her.

"I am having a good time; but I tell you, there is something about him," Amanda rebuffed quickly.

Lee shook his head. He trusted his wife's instincts. As much as he'd like to ignore the stranger and continue dancing with his wife, he knew he'd better look into it. "OK, I'll have my team check him out."

A few minutes later Lee returned. "He's Daniel O'Connell, a guest of the Ambassador's wife. Nobody knows much about him. He came alone. Does the name ring a bell for you, Emily?"

"Sorry, Lee, I can't place him. But it does seem odd to come to a ball alone, on a Friday night," Lady Farnsworth replied. "Better to keep an eye on him."

"How about that dance?" Amanda urged, wanting a closer view of Mr. O'Connell.

He looked at his wife, knowing that wasn't really a question but a statement.

"It's a good cover," she urged.

"You're here unofficially; you're not supposed to be working," Lee reminded her.

"No, but you are," she smirked and looked across the room, nodding towards Francine, "I guess you could go dance with Francine."

"OK, OK, you win. I'd much rather dance with you," he chuckled as he led her back to the dance floor.

Lee took her in his arms once again. This time he kept an eye on O'Connell as he carefully maneuvered Amanda around the dance floor. She couldn't help but notice that her back was always towards O'Connell.

"You know, this is the first time all night that I haven't had your complete attention," she chided.

Lee looked down at her with a warm smile. "This was your idea, and I am the one supposed to be working," he whispered back to her, his warm breath tickling her ear.

The suspect hadn't really moved much in the last few minutes other than shuffling from one foot to the other. O'Connell's eyes scanned the ballroom cautiously; then suddenly his eyes fixed on something. Lee wasn't sure what or who it was that caught the suspect's eye. He turned Amanda carefully, to scan the crowd as well.

"Lee, there's something in his pants," Amanda whispered sharply.

"What?" Lee asked distractedly.

Amanda countered, "There's something in his pants pocket."

Lee turned her again, so he could face O'Connell. Lee looked down at the man's pants. Undeniably there was something round in his pocket. The man was fumbling around with it. His eyes were watching someone in the room. Who was it, Lee wondered?

Lee turned his head trying to get a fix on who it was that had caught the suspect's eye, but on the crowded dance floor it was hard to tell.

"Amanda, who's he looking at?" Lee asked his wife for help.

She scanned the crowd quickly and commented almost immediately. "The Ambassador, Lee! He's finally dancing with his wife. It must be them he's watching! "

Lee spotted them and quickly glanced back at the suspect. O'Connell was now moving forward. He reached into his pocket and Lee felt an overwhelming sense of dread come over him. Moments later his feeling was justified as O'Connell pulled a grenade out of his pocket, not yet aware that he was being closely watched.

"Amanda take cover; clear the ballroom," Lee yelled as he pushed her away.

O'Connell knew he had been made. With a sickening smile he tugged on the grenade's safety and tossed it carelessly to the floor.

Instantly there was chaos as the guests screamed and scattered away from frightening scene. Lee, immediately tackled O'Connell, the grenade flying out of his hand. The other agents came rushing up. They pulled the suspect off the floor after Lee had subdued him, and quickly handcuffed him.

Lee got off the floor, and saw Amanda still nearby.

"Amanda, get out of here, that thing might be live."

"The pin is still in it; he only pulled the safety," she reported quickly as she rushed to his side.

He looked at her and shook his head in disbelief. "Stay here, please."

He looked at the grenade that lay on the dance floor and cautiously stalked it. After he confirmed that Amanda was right, he picked it up. Another of his agents had been following Lee closely. He handed over the grenade - pin intact, to the agent.

"How about you take this outside, just for safe keeping, and get the bomb squad in here. I don't want any more surprises," Lee commented as he let out a deep, yet cautious sigh of relief.

Lee returned to Amanda's side. "That thing could have exploded; why didn't you take cover?"

"I wasn't leaving without you," she replied softly.

Lee gave her a reassuring hug. "I love you, Amanda Stetson."

She smiled back. "I love you too, Mr. Stetson."

*** *** ***

The evening turned into early morning at the Agency as Amanda and the other agents filled out reports on the incident at the ball. Lee finally came into the bullpen after interrogating Daniel O'Connell on one of the lower levels. He looked across the room at his beautiful wife.

"Amanda, I'm going to be tied up here for a while." He looked around the still busy office. "Aberdeen, can you give Amanda a ride home?"

"Sure, no problem. Just give me a few minutes," the agent replied.

"Thanks," Lee answered, then looked over at Amanda, shaking his head. "I hope you don't mind. It's going to be a long night. What a mess."

Amanda nodded her consent. "Been quite a night. Almost like old times."

"You're not going to believe who that guy is?" Lee said as he got closer to his wife.

"You mean he's not Daniel O'Connell?" Amanda asked with a shrug.

"Oh, he's Daniel O'Connell all right!" Lee answered. "He just happens to be the nephew of our friend, the Mongoose!"

"That's why he looked familiar. He has the same beady little eyes," she confirmed.

"I don't know what I'd ever do without you," he murmured and kissed her forehead. Then reached for her hand and carefully lead her into his office. "You're out with your mother tomorrow, right?"

"Yeah, we'll be gone most of the day. Lee, we really need to talk," she suggested in a soft voice.

Lee smiled, as he closed the door to his office. "Hmm, talking would be a good idea," he whispered as his lips sought out hers. They met and melded together, cautiously at first, then with more passion.

Lee finally pulled away and sighed. "I really didn't want this night to end here - not like this. There's so much I want to say to you…"

Amanda nodded in frustration. Things had been going so well earlier in the evening. It really had been like old times. "I know, I've been wanting to talk to you privately all night about…"

There was a quick rap on the door before it opened and Aberdeen popped his head in. "Ready to go?"

Amanda looked at Lee. She had wanted to ask him to come home. But suddenly in front of one of his agents, she didn't want to have this discussion. It was too private. She didn't want to have the discussion here, at the Agency.

"Yeah, sure, I'll be right out," she answered quickly, giving him a friendly smile.

"We can get together on Sunday?" Lee asked with a shrug as Aberdeen closed the door.

"How about brunch at the Marriott? It's quite lovely."

"It's a date!" Lee answered quickly. "Eleven o'clock?"

"I'll meet you there," Amanda replied, then looked at her watch. "I don't want to keep Aberdeen waiting and Mother will be at the door by seven dragging me out of bed."

"Have fun," Lee called as she left the room.

"You've never been shopping with my mother for antiques. Fun is not a word that comes to mind," Amanda laughed as Aberdeen escorted her from the bullpen.

End Part 8
 
 
 
 

Friends and Enemies Part 9

Sunday morning Amanda stood in front of her closet. She didn't know what to wear. She wanted it to be something special, provocative, yet… "Oh, why am I worried about what to wear? Lee's seen me in everything in this closet anyway!" she taunted herself as she ultimately settled on a dark blue dress with a very sleek line. She looked in the mirror when she finally was finished. She smiled as she put her watch on. It was still early, but Amanda had hoped to catch Emily before her brunch with Lee. She collected her purse and jacket, poked around the closet for her umbrella and headed out into the rainy morning.

Amanda arrived at the Marriott and headed up to Emily's room. She knocked on the door and Emily greeted her with delight.

"Amanda, dear, what a lovely surprise. Do come in. I've been wanting to talk with you."

"Thanks, Emily. I'll just be a moment. Lee and I are meeting for brunch."

"That's wonderful," Emily commented with a bright smile. "I was hoping you two would be getting back together before I left."

"When are you leaving?" Amanda asked with concern.

"Hopefully, tomorrow," she answered. "We've finally worked out all the red tape. I'm collecting the Mongoose and catching an evening flight back to London."

Amanda frowned. "Emily, I wanted to invite you to tea at the house. You get back to the States so infrequently. How about this afternoon, say about four?"

"Are you sure, my dear? I don't want to interfere with your plans for the day," she fretted.

"Would it bother you if Lee joined us?" Amanda said with a knowing smile.

Lady Emily grinned back joyously. "Not at all. It would be my pleasure."

Amanda looked back down at her watch. It was just a few minutes past eleven. "I better head downstairs. I don't want to keep Lee waiting. I'll see you at four," Amanda said as she hugged her friend and headed out the door.

*** ***

Amanda checked with the hostess, but Lee had yet to arrive. She decided to wait in the lobby for him. She found a spot on a nearby sofa with a good view of the hallway that led to the parking garage and got herself comfortable. She smiled brightly in anticipation of their meeting. She was going to ask Lee to come home - for a fresh start. She was confident that things would be different this time, that Lee had a real perspective of what was important in his life and so did she.

Amanda sat and daydreamed for a while. Thinking about the things that she had always wanted to do with Lee, alone. She had always wanted to travel, but London and Paris were not the top of her sons' lists of 'cool' places to go on summer vacation. Even after they announced they were married, the family vacations were limited to summers and scheduling between two very active teens. Perhaps now would be a good time to plan a vacation, spend some quality time together. Just the two of them…

"Is this seat taken?" asked a handsome man breaking Amanda out of her reverie.

Amanda looked up, startled. "Seat?" she answered, as she looked around the lobby which had become quite crowded. She pulled her things towards her to make room, then nodded, "Be my guest."

"I hope you don't mind. Just waiting for the rain to let up a bit before I head to the airport. My flight's been delayed."

She nodded politely, looking towards the lobby door to watch the rain come down in torrents. "I guess the rain has everyone slowed down."

The stranger opened up his newspaper and quietly began to read. Amanda glanced down at her watch. It was past eleven thirty. Apparently the weather had slowed down Lee. Perhaps there were some detours because of flooding. She sat silently for a while, keeping her eyes fixed on the hallway, expecting to see Lee's tall form at any moment. But the minutes ticked on by.

Finally she stood up, gathered her belongings and walked to the lobby's entrance. She watched as the raindrops pelted the two stories of glass and slowly began to trickle down until the next raindrop cascaded into it, trickling into a stream of water. The dark clouds hovered like fog in the street outside. The dampness of the morning began to penetrate her skin and she began to shiver. She pulled her coat tightly against her body and jammed her hands deep into the pockets, trying to find warmth and comfort.

Doubt began in permeate her consciousness. Had the last few days been an act, a charade? Tears began to trickle down her face. She remembered years back, when she and Joe had tried to reconcile, but back then it was one broken promise after another. Suddenly her doubt turned to anger.

She took a deep breath and pulled her hands from her pockets and wiped her tears. She took one last look outside. The rain was still quite steady. She turned and headed back towards the lobby and then down the corridor to the parking garage. But just as she reached for the door, she heard her name being paged. She stopped for a moment, not quite sure what to do. Finally, she turned and headed back into the lobby.

*** *** ***

Amanda drove through the soggy streets of Alexandria to pick up Lee. In her mind she went back over the short phone conversation she had with Lee.

"Amanda, I know I'm really late - I'm sorry. Can you pick me up? I'll explain it to you then," he pleaded.

She didn't respond immediately, a million thoughts zipping through her mind.

"Amanda? Are you still there?"

"Yeah, I'm here. Where are you?" she asked, trying to control her emotions.

"My car's a few blocks south of Main, on Grove Street, in Alexandria."

Again she was silent for a few seconds before finally answering. "I'll be there as soon as I can."

She drove through the rain-drenched streets of Alexandria heading to the address Lee had given her. As she turned onto Grove Road, she saw his car, his back tire flat. Lee got out of his car when she pulled up.

"Thanks for coming," he said as he got into her car.

"Did you think I was going to let you sit out here and drown?" she asked as she turned towards him. "Lee, you're soaked to the bone."

Lee took a good look at her face. "Amanda, you've been crying, haven't you?"

"No," she demanded sharply. "Why would you think that?"

Lee gently trailed his finger just below her eye, wiping away the smudges of mascara that had run down her face. "You thought I stood you up."

"No," she replied again, but her voice answered with little conviction.

Lee shook his head sadly. "I've hurt you so much in the last few months. I'm sorry. But if I couldn't have made today's brunch I would have called you. I did try to call…"

"I was just worried about you. You were almost an hour late when you did call," she reminded him.

"Yeah, well, it's really hard to call on a cell phone after you drop it in a puddle deep enough to have to fish it out of," Lee explained with a mixture of humor and anxiety.

Amanda smiled and then finally laughed. "So how far did you have to walk to find a phone?"

"Six blocks. The first pay phone wasn't working and there aren't a lot of businesses open in this area on Sunday morning. That's why I'm soaked; that and because my tire iron broke when I tried to change the tire in the first place," Lee explained.

"Not one of your better days."

"Not by a long shot," he concurred. Then the tow truck pulled up. "I'll be right back. Let me give him the address of the garage."

*** *** ***

"Why don't you get out of those wet clothes and take a hot shower," she suggested as they headed into the house on Maplewood Drive. "It won't be as elaborate as the Marriott's brunch, but how about some soup and sandwiches?"

"Thanks, I'm a bit cold and really hungry," he answered as he quickly headed up the stairs.

Amanda went into the kitchen and started lunch. After putting the soup in a pot she made some sandwiches. Then she headed upstairs with some hot chocolate and left a mug in the bathroom for Lee. She rummaged through the closet searching for one of his old bathrobes. She carefully placed it on the hook behind the door, gathered his wet clothes and quietly exited the bathroom.

It was just a few minutes later that Lee stepped out of the shower; as he toweled off he noticed the mug. He smiled at her thoughtfulness. Despite the way the day had started, Lee felt a bit of hope. Amanda hadn't even asked, she just headed 'home'. He noticed his old bathrobe on the back of the door. She hadn't said anything, but perhaps these were all the little signs welcoming him home. If felt good to shower in his own bathroom. He finished drying himself off, sipped on his cup of cocoa, put on his old bathrobe and headed downstairs.

"You're looking a bit warmer," Amanda greeted him as he walked into the kitchen.

"Nothing like your hot chocolate with marshmallows to help me warm up," he replied. He put the mug down on the counter and pulled her into his arms and whispered, "Thanks."

"You're welcome," she answered with a warm smile. "How about some lunch to go with that hot chocolate?"

"Chicken soup?" he asked as he lifted up the pot.

"You bet; go sit down and I'll bring you in a bowl."

They both ate hungrily. There was little conversation as they were both famished. Lee's spoon clanked in the empty bowl. His sandwich was long gone. He watched as Amanda took the last bite of her own sandwich.

"Every bit as delicious as the Marriott's brunch, I'm sure," he commented to his wife.

"Just the same, I want a rain check for brunch there," she replied.

"You had to mention the word 'rain' didn't you?" Lee rebuked her with a mock shiver.

"Sorry about that," she answered as she got up to clear the table.

Lee stood as well, grabbing his own plate, bowl and mug and followed her into the kitchen. He started to open the dishwasher to load it up.

"Just leave them on the counter. I've wanted to talk to you for the last few days - alone. So before anything else happens…" she said as she reached out for his arm. With a gentle tug she guided him to the family room.

They sat on the sofa together. Lee noticed how close she was sitting next to him; he was trying to relax; his instincts told him this was a good sign, but he was still nervous. He felt like a school boy waiting for the principal to suspend him.

"Lee," Amanda said, noticing his discomfort. "Don't hold your breath. This isn't the Spanish Inquisition. I want you to come home, to stay here. I want us to get back together - to start over again. I didn't bring you back here today to throw you out!"

Lee took a breath; until Amanda had said something, he hadn't realized he was holding it. A smile broke out on his face. He pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly in his.

"You've made me the happiest man on the face of the earth; I've missed you so," he answered enthusiastically.

She laughed lovingly. "I've really missed you, too. I haven't made the greatest decisions over the last two weeks. Walking out without telling anyone where I was going. I know better than that."

"Hey, you needed some time to work things out. I understand that."

Amanda was silent for a while. There was a lot that she wanted to say; a lot that needed to be said. She leaned against Lee, her head resting against his shoulder. She relaxed comfortably with him.

Finally she turned to face him. "These last few weeks I've been struggling with our current relationship as much as fighting demons from my past. I know you're not Joe, but sometimes I have trouble dealing with my failed first marriage. I don't want to repeat the same mistakes."

"Sweetheart," Lee interrupted. "I did the same thing to you that Joe did, with one, very important exception. When I realized that I was driving you away, I did everything in my power to get you back. You really are the most important part of my life."

Tears welled up in her eyes. "I know that. It just took me some time to make my head believe what my heart already knew."

"Hey, you had plenty of reasons to doubt me over the last few months. You warned me about the job, Billy warned me about it too. Hell, even Harry Thornton gave me a lecture…"

"Harry?" she gasped. "When did you talk to him?"

"Last week. He stopped by the office and gave me a lecture only Harry could. It seemed everyone could see how I was driving you away but me. I have to thank you for two things."

"What's that?" she asked, confused.

"For being so patient with me in the first place and giving me a second chance."

"I'm finding that being married to you is very different from my marriage to Joe," Amanda started. Lee's body stiffened; he never liked being compared to Joe. "Lee, you don't always agree with me, but you always listen to my ideas. Joe never listened. It was his idea, his opinion, or nothing. With you, we can agree to disagree and it's all right. You don't know how much that means to me."

"I found out a long time ago, how very clever you are. Your ideas have saved my life more than once. I miss having you by my side, day by day. Your insight is often uncanny. I can't make the Agency change its mind about letting us work together, but in our personal lives, I can make sure that I'm always here."

"Do you have any idea how much I love you, Mr. Stetson?" she asked softly.

Lee looked into his wife's eyes and smiled resolutely. "Yes, Mrs. Stetson, I think I do. You love me just enough to want me back after everything that's happened. You know, in the heat of the moment, I might not always say or do the right thing. Words have never been my strong suit, but I'll never stop loving you."

"And I'll never stop loving you. You know, we're really lucky to have friends who care so much about us," Amanda whispered.

"And family," Lee reminded her.

"So I guess I'm really lucky to have married such a wonderful guy," she answered and then reached her hand between his bathrobe and the hot skin of his chest, her fingers tantalizing him.

"I'm so glad you noticed that," he teased, pulling her towards him. His lips met hers in a long and passionate kiss. His hands began to glide over the silky material of her sleek blue dress.

"Actually, I've known it for a while," she whispered huskily as she returned his kiss. She reached for the belt of his bathrobe.

Lee stopped for just a moment. "Although I really do like your idea, how about we take this upstairs."

"You're a very wise man, Mr. Stetson."

"And lucky for me, my wife is just as insightful," he replied as he stood up, reaching back down for his wife's hand. He helped her up and together, hand in hand they walked up the stairs.

End Part 9
 
 
 
 

Friends and Enemies       Conclusion
 

Amanda awoke, startled and began to sit up. A soft soothing voice calmed her instantly.

"It's all right. Just a car door outside," Lee whispered as he held her in his arms. His fingers were absent-mindedly playing with a wisp of her hair, gently caressing it.

She settled back down, luxuriating in his warm embrace. "I must have drifted off."

"I think we both did," he answered as he began to stroke her soft skin.

Amanda bolted up again, this time looking at the time on her alarm clock. "Oh my gosh! It's four o'clock!"

Lee shrugged as he pulled her to him, kissing the nape of her neck seductively. "So? I don't know about you, but I was enjoying myself thoroughly."

"You don't understand," Amanda replied and quickly got out of the bed, drawing her robe to her body and peeked cautiously out the window. "It's Emily! She's here. I invited her to tea. Oh my gosh! Lee, I don't have anything ready. She's going to know…"

"Amanda, relax. I'll throw on some jeans and get the door. I can keep Emily occupied for a few minutes while you steep a pot of tea."

"Lee, it's in the middle of the afternoon, she's going to know…"

Lee couldn't help but laugh at his wife's concern.

"Stop laughing and get dressed. She's almost up to the front door. I can't believe this."

Lee rummaged through his drawer and found a pair of jeans. As he pulled the first leg on the doorbell rang.

"Will you hurry?" Amanda gasped in disbelief of the situation as she threw a shirt over to him. "Go, get the door. I'll be down in a few minutes."

"I'm going, I'm going," he chuckled as he closed the door behind him.

Amanda heard the greetings at the door as she dressed. She made a quick stop in the bathroom, brushed her hair, touched up her makeup and dabbed on some perfume. Still feeling a bit flustered, but not wanting to take any longer, she hurried downstairs.

"Hello, Emily, I'm so glad that you could make it," Amanda greeted with a warm hug.

"Well thank you for inviting me," Emily replied warmly.

"Let me put your coat someplace to dry," Lee suggested.

"Yes, the weather makes me feel right at home," Emily teased.

"I'll go put on the tea. Why don't you make yourself comfortable," Amanda said, then quickly excused herself.

A while later, Amanda, Lee and Emily were chatting pleasantly while enjoying their tea. The conversation was light and enjoyable as the three old friends luxuriated in a rare relaxing afternoon.

"Are you really leaving tomorrow, Emily?" Amanda asked with sadness in her voice. "You don't visit as often as you used to."

"Afraid so," she answered as she looked over at Lee. "I believe we've finally got all the paperwork straightened out for the Mongoose."

He nodded his head. "Yeah, he's all yours. If I never see him again, that would be fine with me. "

"That goes double for me. I hope I never see the Mongoose or his nephew again. But tell me, when do you think you'll be getting back to the States again?" Amanda asked.

"I'm not certain. Perhaps next spring," she answered. "Perhaps you could come over to England for a visit?"

Amanda looked over at Lee longingly. It had been on her mind. She would like nothing more than a visit to London. It was one of her favorite cities. "I'd really like that, Emily. But I'm not sure we could get the time off. Especially since I've taken the last two weeks…"

"Ah, but the last two weeks were for medical reasons. Perhaps you could mix a little business with pleasure?" Emily suggested.

"I don't think that Casual Surveillance has a rotation in London," Amanda answered with a forced laugh.

"If they did, it would be quite a popular department," Lee chimed in, then he looked over at his wife. "I'm sorry, Amanda. That didn't come out the way I meant it."

"But it's true; someone with Amanda's experience in Casual Surveillance! The Agency should be ashamed," Lady Farnsworth replied sternly. "Have you ever given serious thought about leaving the Agency, Amanda?"

Amanda looked at her with astonishment, and for several moments there was silence in the room. She finally answered. "No. I mean, I don't like my current position, but I'm hoping that with time I can transfer to another department."

Emily nodded in understanding. "You know, MI6 was quite impressed by you single-handedly catching the Mongoose. They have been quite embarrassed by this whole debacle."

"They should be," Lee piped in. "If Amanda hadn't spotted him, god knows what could have happened."

"Yes, Amanda has a remarkable eye. She's an excellent agent and her talents are being wasted where she is now," Emily remarked directly at Lee. Then she looked over at Amanda. "Amanda, I'm getting older, slowing down. As you just said, I don't get to the United States as often as I use to. MI6 needs a more prominent agent here - full time. Someone who knows the ropes, knows who the players are."

Lee sat immobile, stunned. Amanda sat silently as well. She was just beginning to realize what Emily was implying.

Finally Lee spoke. "Emily, you're not suggesting…"

"Suggesting, no, of course not," Emily stated with authority. "This is a bona fide, legitimate offer."

"Emily," Amanda said blankly. "You can't be serious?"

"Of course I'm serious. I never take national security lightly. The position would be based here in DC of course. An occasional trip to England would be necessary, a couple of days every few months."

Amanda looked over at Lee who was bewildered. "I, I don't know what to say."

"I would hope that you would say yes," Emily responded directly. "Amanda, I know this is a big decision. You'd be coordinating security details; you'd be the point man, or woman in your case, working with the Agency, NSA, State Department."

"I'm flattered, really I am," Amanda stammered.

"Amanda, you're being offered this job because you're the key person they've been looking for. I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner. They'd prefer to keep the blunders like the other night at the Embassy ball down to a minimum. Mr. O'Connell should have never made it on the guest list, but we didn't have the personnel to handle things properly. Imagine, the Mongoose's own nephew at an Embassy Ball!" Lady Farnsworth shuddered.

"I still can't believe that one myself," Amanda confided.

"If only we had done complete background checks on the unknown guests. We need someone to make the proper decisions from years of experience. You, my dear, are that person. I'm not expecting an answer tonight," Emily said putting her cup of tea down on the table and reaching out for Amanda's hands. "Promise me, Amanda, that you will give this position serious thought."

Amanda looked down at the hands of her old friend. Then she looked back up to her face. "I will, Emily. I promise."

"Wonderful," Emily cheered. "Now I do thank you for the tea, but I best get myself back to my hotel. I have some packing to do before I leave tomorrow. Lee, can you give me a lift back?"

"Sure, Emily, we'll have to take Amanda's car. Mine has a flat tire."

After a few minutes of hugs and good-byes, Lee and Emily headed out into the rainy evening.

*** *** ***

Later that night, Lee held Amanda protectively in his arms in their bedroom; both of them were relaxing in the comfort of each other's closeness. It was Lee who finally brought up the subject from earlier in the day. "I think you should take the job."

"Leave the Agency?" Amanda gasped.

"Don't get me wrong, I don't want you to leave, but if Emily had asked me to take that job, I probably would have."

"I just don't know…"

"Emily was right; where you are now, your talents are wasted. Casual Surveillance is a great assignment for a rookie, but not for a seasoned professional. With MI6 you won't be tied to a desk as much as I am, plus we'd get to work together on occasion. It really is a great opportunity."

"You really mean that, don't you," she asked earnestly.

He leaned on one of his elbows and kissed her. "Yes, I do. Your happiness means everything to me. So why don't you call Emily and tell her you'll take the job?"

"Now?"

"Why not? You want it, don't you?" he asked.

"Well, yes, but…" Amanda hesitated.

"No buts. Give her a call, but make it quick," he said with an enchanting smile.

Amanda laughed and reached for the phone. A few seconds later Emily picked up.

"I hope I didn't wake you," Amanda said.

"Heavens no, my dear, I've just finished packing."

"I've been talking over that offer with Lee," she started.

"And?" Lady Farnsworth interrupted with eager curiosity.

"I accept!" Amanda said abruptly with a bright smile.

"Oh, Amanda, I'm so pleased. I'll contact MI6 the moment I get back and set things in motion."

"Emily, thanks a lot. For everything…" Amanda said looking over her shoulder at Lee who was only inches from her.

"No thanks needed. You're perfect for the job," she answered.

"The job isn't the only thing I'm thanking you for. Lee and I owe you our thanks for helping us get back together again," Amanda replied.

"You two belong together. Sometimes we just need a push in the right direction."

"I think sometimes we need a shove," Amanda laughed. "Well thank you just the same. I know it's getting late and you have plenty to do, so have a safe trip home."

"I will. Give my love to Lee," Emily replied then hung up the line.

Amanda hung up the phone and turned to face Lee. "She seems pleased, but I don't think she's surprised."

"Some things were just meant to be," Lee shrugged.

"Like you and me?" Amanda queried.

"Exactly," he grinned. "And speaking of you and me. I think it's time we start celebrating your new position."

"And exactly what did you have in mind?" she teased as she ran her hand across his bare chest.

"Well, I thought we could go to dinner tomorrow night - say at 'Spencer's' and take it from there."

"Tomorrow night huh?" she answered a little disappointed.

"I thought you liked Spencer's?" he replied.

"I do, it's just that I thought maybe we could do some celebrating tonight…"

"Hmmm, let me think. What could we possible do this evening?" he murmured as he kissed her lips, then trailed tiny kisses down her neck and to her shoulders.

She responded to his kisses quickly as they intensified. "I think I'm going to like this celebration. I hope it lasts for days."

"I think that could be arranged," Lee replied as he carefully laid her down on their bed.

"I definitely like this celebration," she mumbled as her hands explored his warm body.

"Good, I wanted to make sure I haven't lost my touch, Mrs. Stetson," he murmured passionately.

She sighed heavily as she returned his kisses. "I don't think we have anything to worry about, Mr. Stetson…"

The end
 

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