Title: Succession & Seduction
Series: Wind & Rain – Chapter XVIII
Author: Barb Marx
Email: bmarx@shaw.ca
Characters: Ezra/OFC
Universe: ATF
Archive: http://het_oasis.tripod.com/hot4het.html (adult pages)
Found on the Adult pages (Authors note: OFCs' first names changed in Web version)
Summary: How can things go from bad to worse in the blink of an eye?
Open fandom: Yes. And, if you wish to discover another side of the story, read TJ's 'Aftermath…' 'First, you stumble…' and 'Then you fall…'
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: The M7 characters are owned by Trilogy, MGM and Mirisch, No copyright infringement
was intended. For sheer entertainment
Acknowledgement & Dedication: My thanks to TJ, who continually makes me think…
Succession & Seduction
Waking up Friday, Adrian felt remarkably alive. The last vestige of her migraine and headache had disappeared in the night and Delaney could once again take on the world, and possibly even come out ahead. She was a little wiser and definitely older, much too old for all of her thirty-five years.
Yet the brunette couldn’t deny her inherent nature, or the smile that graced her lips as she took in the sun creeping in the window. Adrian always took pride in the fact that she generally wasn’t a miserable person. The glass was usually half full as opposed to half empty. The past three weeks were really an aberration for the brunette. Waking this morning, Delaney was determined to get back her sense of self and, get on with life.
Humming as she finished buttoning her blouse, she jumped as Josiah banged on her door.
“Adrian, breakfast is ready,” the big man hollered through the barrier, “I would like it if you could join me this morning.”
She looked at her reflection in the bathroom mirror and grinned. Josiah was like a dog with a bone. She should have known that after yesterday’s telephone conversation, the big man would want to have visual proof that she was all right.
Delaney was about to reply to Sanchez when he once again knocked on the door, “Adrian? You awake? Breakfast is ready.”
Rolling her eyes, Adrian could hear the worry in the profiler’s voice and hastened to answer before he broke the door down. “I’m almost ready, Josiah. I’ll be up in a moment.”
“Fine… that’s fine. I’ll make sure the kettle is on for tea.”
Adrian could hear the satisfaction in his voice and then the ex preacher’s heavy footsteps as he returned to his home.
Sighing, Adrian took another look at herself and finished tucking her blouse into her skirt. Ruffling her hair, she stuck her tongue out at her reflection and, shutting off the light, headed back into the living room.
Slipping into her shoes, Delaney grabbed her coat and purse and, locking the door behind her, ventured upstairs.
Her earlier good mood slipped as she realized that Josiah may want to discuss more than just how she was fairing. Suddenly feeling like every step she took was leading her towards the gallows, Adrian muttered, “Ah hell, I guess it would be too much to ask that he doesn’t mentioned Wednesday?”
The events of that fateful day came rushing back to her and she groaned, “What the hell was I thinking? What must Josiah, not to mention Mr. Larabee think of me?” Delaney purposely kept her mind off of Ezra. The brunette did not want to ruminate on what the southerner thought. After all, she was no longer concerned about what went through Ezra P. Standish’ mind… Was she?
Adrian cringed as vague images of JD and Vin’s faces flashed before her. “What must they think? I was out of control, completely crazy….”
A little unsure about how her friend would react to the events of the last few days, the hazel-eyed woman approached the big man cautiously. "Good morning, Josiah," she said, announcing her presence.
Sanchez turned when he heard Delaney's greeting. Smiling, he walked up to the young woman and enfolded her in a giant embrace, "good morning to you, too, Adrian. How are you feeling this morning?" Josiah asked as he released her so that he could get a good look at the newest member of his 'family'. He was pleased to see that, barring a bit of shadow under her lovely eyes, Delaney looked none the worse for wear.
Smiling in spite of herself, Adrian shook her head, "I'm fine. Honestly, my headache has disappeared and I’m ready to go to work." She didn't mention that she was ready to forget the last few days and get on with her life. She wanted nothing more than to move on, and to forget about a certain southerner.
Grinning, Josiah realized that Delaney was attempting to avoid having to discuss everything that happened, though he was determined to get Adrian to talk to him. "Good, I'm glad you're feeling better. I've got breakfast on the table and we have time to chat before we have to leave." He steered Adrian to the table and exerting gentle pressure on her shoulders, encouraged her to sit.
Frowning at the amount of food that Sanchez had made, the brunette looked at her friend, “you can’t expect me to eat all of this?” For the last three weeks, Adrian hadn’t been eating well and while hungry this morning, she knew she wouldn’t be able to eat a large breakfast.
“Oh I’ll be taking my share,” Josiah assured her, “but you won’t be leaving my table until I think you’ve eaten enough.”
“Josiah… I’m not three,” Adrian tried to glare at the big man, but fell short as he directed a blinding grin at her. Relenting, she sighed, “I’ll do my best.”
“Good, just dig in, I can’t be late today.” Sanchez smiled.
“Oh, why?” Adrian asked as she reached for a piece of toast, frowning as Josiah added some scrambled eggs and bacon to her plate.
“Eat, you’re too thin,” the profiler smirked, “my psychological evaluation is today, but then you wouldn’t know anything about that, would you?”
Delaney looked puzzled for a moment then had the grace to blush as remembrance hit her, “you know that really wasn’t my fault,” she began, then gave up when she saw the twinkle in Josiah’s eye. Shrugging, she broke out in a giggle, “so who’s all gone?” she asked when she got herself under control.
“JD, Nathan and now myself,” Sanchez answered, “Buck’s Monday, then Vin, Ezra and Chris in that order.” The ex-preacher watched closely as his companion absorbed that information.
“Interesting order,” Adrian blandly answered.
“Indeed, it was just as well young JD went first,” the profiler baited the brunette.
“Oh? Why is that Josiah?” Delaney answered with a fair bit of suspicion colouring her tone.
Sanchez busied himself with his breakfast, then guilelessly looked up and answered, “JD was finished with his evaluation by the time you… informed us about a few truths.”
Blinking, Adrian was at a loss as to how to answer. Peering into Josiah’s blue eyes, Delaney could read no condemnation or disgust, just unwarranted affection, at least that’s what she thought she saw. Not wanting to delve back into the one subject she desperately wanted to shy away from, Adrian did the only thing she could think of and, in the time honoured practice of avoidance, she changed the subject, “what are your plans for the weekend?”
Josiah raised an eyebrow at the brunette’s abrupt about face and inwardly sighed. “I guess now isn’t the time to discuss Adrian’s relationship with Ezra,” he mused to himself. Instead he allowed himself to be distracted, “Well, I was hoping that you can help Rain with some of the kitchen duties for my yard clean up tomorrow. That way the rest of us can concentrate on getting that tree of mine cut down,” Sanchez mildly commented. He watched Delaney’s shocked expression from the corner of his eyes.
“Oh, wait a minute… you can’t mean to go ahead with the clean up party? Josiah, that’s not a good idea,” Adrian looked astonished at the big man.
“I’ll not be gainsaid, Adrian. The entire team, Rain, Kate and you will be there,” Sanchez stated firmly. He smiled grimly at the brunette as he observed her reaction to the inclusion of Lansky. “It’s a perfect plan. I get my yard cleaned and everyone gets together and… bonds.”
Blinking at the big man, Delaney couldn’t believe what she was hearing, “yup, great plan. I seem to remember Pandora muttering something about ‘it can’t hurt to take a peek’.”
Shaking her head, Adrian stood and gathered up the dishes. “Fine, but I take no responsibility for any blood shed.”
Josiah’s rich laugh filled the little kitchen and he lounged in his chair. “Ok, I’ll take the blame should someone get hurt. Though I do think you’re over reacting. It will be fine, you’ll see.”
Shaking her head, Adrian loaded the dishwasher, “maybe, but I still think the idea is… imprudent.”
Handing the brunette his coffee cup as he made his way over to her, Sanchez leaned over and kissed the top of her head, “I’m not concerned, my girl.”
Delaney swatted the big man and fluffed up her hair, “Right… and I hope that means you're not going to supply sharp implements?”
Biting his lip at Adrian unknowingly echoing JD’s thoughts from yesterday’s meeting, Josiah grabbed his keys and ushered the hazel-eyed woman out the door.
As they drove towards work, Adrian relaxed in the passenger seat, reflecting on the fact that she seemed to have managed to avoid having ‘the’ dreaded conversation with Josiah. As much as she liked and trusted the big man, the brunette wasn’t sure she would be able to talk to him about Ezra and… well, everything.
Keeping his eyes on the road, Sanchez came to a decision. He had consciously let Delaney off the hook this morning, by not talking to her about Wednesday. Of course, that didn’t mean he hadn't wanted to. Taking a deep breath, he sent up a brief prayer to a higher power and ploughed right in, “So, why did you go to a motel on Wednesday and not come home?” Josiah asked. He smiled at the shocked expression on Delaney’s face.
Frozen, Adrian closed her eyes, her earlier calm shattered by the crushing pain that his question brought back. Why couldn’t he leave it alone? Why couldn’t he just let the whole incident die away? Sighing, Delaney knew the answers to her own questions… it wasn’t Josiah’s way. He wasn’t about to let her run from the distasteful subject… not to mention run from him. Grudgingly, she admired his tactic of trapping her in the car before asking her about Wednesday.
Rolling her head on her shoulders in order to relieve the sudden tension, the brunette took a moment to look at Josiah’s face. Seeing only calm acceptance and affection on his grizzled features, Adrian sighed, “Decided to forgo the subtle approach, huh?”
The ‘little boy grin’ Josiah sported, caused Adrian to roll her eyes, “I had hoped that the honest, straight forward approach would get you to talk to me,” the big man admitted.
Staring out the front windshield, Delaney was loath to say anything. The last thing she wanted was to cause trouble… yet again. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath, about to speak, but at last minute, changed her mind. Opening her hazel orbs, she turned to look at Josiah, “I wasn’t sure of much on Wednesday. The migraine… let’s just say… I should've been alone.”
Thankful for a stoplight, Josiah was able to watch as the emotions crossed Adrian’s face. He nodded, “I was worried about you. You’re still new to Denver. You couldn’t possibly know which motels are safe…” he trailed off as Delaney raised a hand to halt his impending tirade.
Satisfied that Sanchez stopped his lecture, Adrian spoke softly, “Josiah, I know it wasn’t wise, but I was fine. Can we just drop this?”
A car honked its disapproval to their lack of attention to the change in the color of the stoplight. Softly cursing, the profiler continued on his way.
Taking a moment to think of what Adrian requested, Sanchez shook his head, “Why didn’t you talk to me about what happened between you and Ezra? I’m your friend, Adrian. You don't need to shoulder this on your own.”
Biting her lip, the brunette resolutely kept her eyes staring straight ahead, “what was I supposed to say. He’s your friend. You’ve known him the longest, I… couldn’t… he needs you. I’m not going to say any more about this. It’s over, done with.”
Josiah was about to argue with Delaney until he glanced over, looked into her face and saw something that shut him up. The look of pain, denial, and stubbornness that flashed over her lovely features was enough to let the profiler know that it would be a difficult subject for the brunette to discuss. He was convinced that it wasn’t over between Standish and Adrian, especially after Ezra’s antics yesterday in the office. Unfortunately, she wasn’t willing to see that, let alone believe his assertions to the contrary. “Alright, I don’t agree but I won’t push you,” Sanchez conceded.
She was happy to let the matter drop and soon the two were discussing the upcoming Charity Ball Delaney was helping Evie Travis and her committee organize the event.
Arriving at the federal building, they discovered that the elevators were once more out of commission. By the time they arrived at the seventh floor, Josiah was huffing and puffing. Looking at Delaney, he shook his head, “how come you aren’t even breathing hard?”
“Clean living and my tender youth,” Adrian stated with a serious expression on her face that was ruined by the wicked gleam in her eyes.
Josiah took a mock swipe at her and chuckled as the brunette lithely skipped out of the way, “go on, girl, laugh it up. But I’ll have my revenge… you still have six more floors to climb.” With that, Josiah pulled Adrian into a brief hug and kissed her forehead, “have a good day.”
Laughing, the hazel-eyed woman watched as Josiah walked through the stairway exit. As the door closed, she sighed, then slipped off her shoes. If she were to attempt the last of the stairs in her pumps, her feet would kill by the time she reached the 13th floor. Purse and shoes in hand, Adrian continued in her stocking feet.
She had just stepped into the hallway when she noticed the AD walking down the hall reading a report. Distracted, the man didn’t see Adrian until he almost walked into her.
Quickly apologizing, Orin greeted his assistant, “Morning, Adrian. I hope you’re feeling better?” He studied his secretary, noticing the faint shadows under her eye. She appeared much improved.
“Good morning, Mr. Travis. I’m much better, thank you. But how did you get up here so fast?” Adrian asked as she attempted to slip on her pumps. She was positive that the AD’s parking spot had been empty when she and Josiah arrived.
The older man quickly came to his secretary’s aid as she almost toppled putting on her heels, “The perks of job, my dear. I have the key card to the service elevator,” he explained. “Apparently it’s on a separate circuit or some such.”
“Thanks,” she flashed a grateful smile as she finished putting on her shoes and then straightened her suit, “so, when do I get one?” Delaney asked grinning at the smug look on Orin’s face.
“Sorry, so far it’s still considered ‘restricted access’,” Travis shrugged apologetically.
Adrian nodded in understanding as they made their way into the reception area, “That’s ok. I just won’t have to worry about using the Stair Master at the gym for the next week or so.” Looking at her desk, Delaney sighed, “I’m sorry about yesterday. I hope it wasn’t too difficult for you?”
Chuckling at his assistant's humour, Travis picked up some mail and nodded absentmindedly. “Hmm? Oh, it wasn’t too bad…” He trailed off as he took a good look at the disaster that was Adrian’s desk. “Well maybe it was a bit hectic. Today should be better. I’m expecting all the reports today. I need them by noon; my meeting with DA Yakimura is at one. Bill and I will be going over the Pritchard case. I’m counting on you to make sure they’re here.”
Delaney nodded, “Of course sir. I’ll take care of everything.”
“I know you will. Please hold my calls for an hour while I get caught up on my correspondence,” and with that, the AD continued on his way to his office and shut the door.
Adrian sighed and threw herself into her work. She was dismayed to see the state of her desk. She didn’t know who had manned her station whilst she was away yesterday, but they didn’t seem to get anything done. Determined to set things straight, Delaney became a dervish of activity.
She hadn’t realized how absorbed she was in her tasks until she heard someone clearing their throat.
Slowly looking up, Delaney blinked as strong, jean covered legs confronted her. Following the enticing vision upwards, she swallowed, forcing her eyes to bypass the lower anatomy and broad shoulders, finally looking at who stood before her.
Covering her surprise, and the fact that she had been checking the man out, Adrian quirked an eyebrow and stated calmly, “can I help you, Mr. Larabee?”
When Chris had walked into Travis’ office he stood and waited to be acknowledged. It soon became apparent that the brunette was so caught up in what she was doing the she hadn’t heard his arrival. The blond was surprised that Adrian had given him the once over and attempted to dismiss his reaction by handing her his report. “Travis is expecting this.”
The Canadian nodded and flipped through the booklet. Frowning slightly at the typist’s initials, Adrian had to reluctantly concede that the report was in good order. Looking at the clock, Delaney grinned, “Thank you. You’re cutting it awfully short. Tierney and Mason sent their reports up hours ago.”
Looking down at Adrian’s smiling face and sparkling hazel eyes, Chris suddenly understood what the southerner saw in her. There was more to this woman than met the eye… just like Ezra. Larabee couldn’t help the smirk that crossed his lips as he thought of Standish and Delaney’s next encounter. He was sure it would be fairly explosive.
Looking at Chris, Adrian took a deep breath. Thinking about her behaviour of Wednesday, the brunette acknowledged that she owed the man an apology. “Mr. Larabee I… well I can’t tell you how sorry I am for what I said… you know… in your office.”
Larabee stared. He was shocked that Delaney had apologized to him. Narrowing his eyes, he contemplated his reply, then sighing, he nodded, “can’t say that I wasn’t pissed, but I can understand where you were coming from.” He thought back to the conversation with Josiah and the discovery that the brunette hadn’t come home Wednesday. He didn’t like the idea that she’d been missing but it wasn’t his business. “So as far as I’m concerned, we’re good,” he said with a terse nod and a grin.
Adrian couldn’t help but chuckle. Leave it to a man to slough it off as nothing. Had it been two women, they’d still be discussing the issue to death… probably over chocolate cake. “Yes, Chris, we’re good,” she said with a blush at the smile he threw her way.
Adrian was about to say something else when the phone rang. Answering, she watched as Larabee nodded and turned to leave. Momentarily distracted by the retreating view, Delaney had to wrench her attention back to the voice on the other end of the receiver.
Roughly an hour later, the brunette was interrupted again and looked up as she heard a noise coming from the entrance to her office. There, standing in the doorway was a good-looking gentleman.
Dressed in a charcoal double-breasted suit, the man looked like he'd stepped out of the covers of GQ Magazine. His black hair, cropped close to his head, framing sky blue eyes, which seemed to smile at Adrian as she observed his entrance into the office.
“Hello, can I help you?” Delaney asked as the dapper man approached.
“Yes, I have a meeting with DA Travis,” he replied as he reached into his breast pocket for a business card.
“Really? You don’t look like Mr. Yakimura,” Adrian stated as she straightened in her chair.
Smirking, the gentleman held out the card for Delaney’s perusal. “That’s because my name is Daniel Carver. I’m the DA’s assistant.”
Looking the card over, the brunette noted that Mr. Carver was an ADA and did indeed work for the District Attorney. “Is Mr. Yakimura running late?” Adrian asked as she handed the card back to Carver.
“No, Bill won’t be able to make the meeting. He sent me in his stead,” Daniel explained, “there was an emergency meeting with the judge about his current case. Some new evidence came to light."
There was something about Mr. Carver that made Adrian nervous. She couldn’t deny his appeal… broad shoulders, narrow waist and strong legs… but there was something… maybe it was his charming personality that was setting her off. If she thought about it, lately men with charming personalities weren’t endearing themselves to her.
Before she could question him further, AD Travis walked out of his office. “Daniel, this is a pleasant surprise. Are you joining Bill and I?”
“Sorry to say, it will just be me,” Daniel stated as he held out his hand for Orin to shake. “Bill sends his regrets but he’d been detained in a meeting. I promised him that I would brief him upon my return.”
“That shouldn’t be a problem, “Travis said as he lead Carver to the boardroom. “Adrian, can you hold my calls for the duration of this meeting?”
“Of course, sir,” Delaney nodded as she reached for phone as it rang.
Thinking on the two men in the boardroom, Adrian wondered why the DA’s office hadn’t phoned to inform them of the change in plans.
~~7~~
Sitting in his office Standish looked at his watch and sighed. Just past 1:00 pm and so far all was well. Not able to concentrate on the paperwork in front of him, the undercover agent contemplated life. It was Friday and he was seriously wondering who he had to contact to get that particular day of the week banned. For the last three weeks nothing good had come about on a Friday. He had lost his lover, then cheated on her, with the boss' girlfriend no less.
He was still amazed that he hadn't felt the physical animosity of his friends, other than that one justified pummel from Mr. Larabee.
Thinking back to Thursday, Ezra sensed the awkwardness of Wednesday like a wall surrounding the office of Team Seven. He would have to make a point of thanking Mr. Larabee for calling his little 'conference' in order to, as Chris put it, 'clear the air'. Standish had felt the atmosphere ease up after their meeting and he realized that, despite his one incredibly stupid act, he hadn't lost his only friends. They may be mad at him, even be disappointed in him, but they didn't hate him. He could deal with the rest.
He also shook his head at the reaction he'd had to Josiah's news. Adrian hadn't made it home on Wednesday. Had he known that then, Standish would have been combing Denver to find his missing love. Discovering that she had gone to a motel disturbed the southerner to no end. Instinctively, he knew that it was his fault that Delaney had hidden out as opposed to going home to Josiah's. He understood the way Adrian would think… that she couldn't go home for fear of her reception. Ezra tacked another misdemeanor to his list of transgressions against his lover.
Sitting in his office he also contemplated his associates and all that he had learned the day before. Mr. Tanner’s suppositions about Ms. Lansky appeared to have been spot on, and that concerned the southern gentleman. What the hell had he been thinking in taking the blonde home for a ‘tumble’. Standish didn’t think he was suicidal but in retrospect, the green-eyed man had to wonder. Then again, he hadn't been thinking with his brain… that more primitive part of his anatomy had taken control and, apparently, relished in the danger.
All day he waited for the next bomb to go off. He was feeling slightly anxious and was surprised to make it through the whole day without a disaster occurring. Standish was pleasantly astonished when he was invited to join his friends and teammates at the saloon.
~~7~~
Just before four o’clock, Josiah rang the brunette to inform her that he wouldn’t be able to drive her home. Sanchez told Adrian that he was joining the team at the saloon for dinner and drinks.
Assuring the profiler that she would be all right, Adrian stated that she would take the bus home and relax. Hanging up, Delaney tidied up her workspace then popped her head into the boardroom.
“Do you need me to stay?” Delaney asked Mr. Travis.
Both men looked up at her arrival and smiled.
“No thank you. Daniel and I should be fine, Adrian,” Orin stated. “You go on home and have a good weekend.”
Carver stood and walked over to the brunette, “It was a pleasure to meet you. I hope it wouldn’t be to forward to ask you to dinner… some day soon perhaps?” he questioned as he took her hand.
Flustered at the attention the handsome man was showing her, Adrian was about to answer, when she was interrupted by Travis.
“You’re too late, Dan, Adrian is already spoken for,” the AD chuckled at the blush on his assistants cheeks.
Delaney wanted to growl at her boss, but instead she smiled impishly at the ADA, “it’s never wrong to be asked out by a handsome man.” The brunette chuckled at the startled look on Orin’s face and quickly bid the men goodnight.
~~7~~
Taking the opportunity to think, while on the bus, Adrian was distracted by the young couple sitting next to her.
In their early 20’s, the lovers took advantage of the packed bus. The young woman was sitting on her boyfriend’s lap, one hand tangled in his hair, the other disappearing between their lower bodies. His hands were busy snaking their way under her top. To make matters even more erotic, the two spent the entire time French kissing.
At first Adrian thought their behaviour was endearing, but after a while the little noises and the man’s slight thrust of his hips, quickly changed to uncomfortable voyeurism.
Delaney was never more grateful to see her stop. Pushing her way off the bus, the brunette took a deep breath when her feet hit the concrete.
It took only a few minutes before the hazel-eyed woman was walking up the path to Josiah’s home.
~~7~~
Adrian sighed as the door clicked shut.
Here it was Friday night and she was alone in a strange city. She’d been in Denver just over a month and still didn’t know her way around. The transplanted Canadian felt isolated, disconnected from the life that surged around her.
At home, her real home, she’d be with friends either at her place or out and about. “Here… I wouldn’t even know where to begin,” Delaney muttered as she went to change.
A few minutes later, the brunette wandered into the kitchen to hunt down something easy for dinner. Deciding on an omelet and toast, Adrian set about her tasks as she reviewed her day. It was easier than she had thought to go to work. Not having to deal with Ezra or Kate had helped. The last thing she needed to see was proof of their relationship. The conversation with Larabee had been a surprise. Delaney hadn’t expected that the two of them could converse without pissing the other off. She still blushed at having checked the handsome man over. Then there was her introduction to the ADA… there was something unsettling about the man, though she couldn’t deny an attraction to him.
Opening a bottle of wine, the brunette poured a glass and, grabbing her plate, she went into the living room and sat on the couch. Once finished, she curled up and began to read.
How much real time had passed she didn't know, but Adrian snarled in frustration, tossing her book on the coffee table after she realized that she was reading the same page for the last five minutes. Her mind kept wandering to the lovers on the bus, not to mention to two sets of broad shoulders and twinkling eyes.
The brunette tried to shake off these disturbing thoughts to no avail. Delaney’s mind may have attempted to comply but her body had its own ideas. Lord, she felt like a teenager… horny and aroused.
Why was she home alone? If today was any indication, she certainly wasn’t unattractive. She had felt the heat of more than one admiring look over the past couple of days. That being the case, why not go out and have some fun. Her body was tingling and all she wanted was to rid herself of the tension that was building within her.
Thinking on the subject, Adrian snarled, “that’s it! What the hell am I doing home?” The brunette glared at her empty apartment as if it would dare to answer her.
Quickly making a decision, Delaney filled her glass and stalked into the bathroom.
Downing half the glass, the hazel-eyed woman stripped and hopped into the shower.
Standing under the hot stream of water, Adrian lathered up her hands and ran them over her arms and breasts. Moaning at the sensations, she continued to stimulate her nipples all the while imagining strong hands touching her. Moving one hand, she slipped her index finger between soap-slicked folds and gasped. Stimulating her clit, it didn’t take long before Delaney was shuddering through an orgasm.
Leaning against the shower stall, Adrian took a moment to try to compose herself. Her release had only taken the edge off. She wanted more… wanted… needed to feel the heat and strength of a man… It wasn’t enough to bring herself off… she desired it all.
Shutting off the water, Delaney rubbed herself dry and wandered into the bedroom.
Since she had a different goal in mind, the brunette contemplated her wardrobe. Smiling, Adrian slipped into a black lace bra and panty. She loved the feel of the erotic material and shivered as she dabbed her favourite perfume on pulse points.
“Hmmm, what kind of an impression do I want to make?” she asked herself. “Better yet, where am I going?” Sitting on the edge of the bed, Adrian contemplated that question, while once again sipping on her glass of wine.
The only place she knew, was the one place she should probably stay away from. On the other hand, it would be perfect.
Swigging the remains of her glass, the brunette licked her lips at the thought of a pair of green eyes. “That might just work out,” she giggled.
Wiggling into a pair of scandalously tight pair of low-rise jeans, Adrian grinned as she looked at herself in the mirror. She then slipped into a button down blouse that displayed her ample bosom.
Fluffing up her hair, Adrian reached for a tube of lipstick and painted her lips a deep crimson. Pleased with the result, the brunette headed towards the door only to realize she’d forgotten something. Turning, she rummaged through her dresser and with a cry of triumph, clutched the object of her search and quickly tucked it away.
With a predatory gleam in her eye, she slipped on shoes, her coat and grabbed her purse, and shut the door behind her.
~~7~~
Adrian walked into the bar and looked around. The brunette wasn’t sure who she was looking for, but was certain she would know him when he presented himself.
There were several promising prospects but somehow they just weren’t right. It wasn’t until Delaney saw him, that a plan started to form and she unconsciously licked her lips. The hazel-eyed woman purposefully stalked towards her objective, unconsciously swinging her hips as she went. There wasn't a male eye that wasn’t tracking Adrian’s journey. The brunette’s tight jeans and form fitting top displayed her impressive figure to its fullest.
Arriving at a circular table, Delaney grabbed a chair and sat between two of the men sitting there. Ignoring everyone but the man she’d singled out, the Canadian stole a shot from the cowboy sitting to the right of her and tossed it back. Adrian's head raised and her body shivered as the alcohol burned its way to her stomach. Lowering her head, she licked her lips as they curled into a seductive smile.
~~7~~
Team seven had been at the saloon for several hours. Dinner consumed, the men now relaxed into a night of drinking. Empty glasses littering the surface, mute evidence of their desire to forget the stressful events of the week.
Larabee sat barely listening to the men beside him. Slightly slouching in his chair, the blond contemplated the day. His agile mind attempted to figure out the puzzle that was Lansky. She infuriated him one moment and the next all he wanted to do was take her in his arms. Chris longed to be able to tell Kate exactly what he was feeling, and it frustrated him that she wasn’t willing to hear him. That last night together had been perfect and he wanted to shake the blue-eyed woman and make her see that they were meant to be together. His body reacted to her like no other, and just thinking about it set his blood on fire.
Lifting his shot glass to his lips, Larabee stilled his hand as a vision came into view. Lowering his whiskey, Chris cocked his head to the side as a small smile crossed his lips.
Buck had been going on about his latest conquest, and he was about to nudge Larabee to make the man pay attention, when he recognized a familiar glimmer in his best friend’s eyes. As young Navy SEALs, the two often trolled the bars carousing and picking up women and the rogue had witnessed that look before. The look that said the blond had found a likely companion for the night.
Thinking that Kate had arrived, the ladies man turned to greet the woman. What caught his eye was not the lithe blonde that he was expecting. No… what was approaching was lush and oozing sex appeal, something that the rogue had never experienced with Lansky. Buck’s blue eyes traveled up the vamp, noting that the clothes she was wearing displayed her assets to their fullest. Wilmington’s mouth watered at the vision and had to wrench his eyes away from her full breasts to look at her face.
Buck’s jaw dropped as her identity was revealed, “Holy Shit!” he muttered as Adrian Delaney sat between Vin and JD. He watched as the brunette eyed Larabee with a 'come hither' look, and had the distinct feeling he was watching a train wreck in the making. Adrian was playing a dangerous game and he didn't know what to do to stop it. The rogue looked at his oldest friend and hoped that Chris wouldn't open his big mouth and make matters worse.
Completely consumed by his analysis of Kate Lansky, Tanner was unaware of anything around him until a feminine hand stole his drink. Startled, he looked up and his eyes widened at the identity of the thief. Vin didn't know whether to be offended at Adrian's theft of his whiskey or amused over the reactions of his friends. Looking over at Standish he couldn't help but grin at the black looks Ezra was shooting everyone.
At first the southerner was inordinately pleased to see his nymph. It wasn’t until he realized that she hadn’t once looked in his direction that his good mood vanished. What the hell was she doing here, dressed so provocatively? Why was she staring at Mr. Larabee like that? Standish didn’t like the direction his thoughts were taking him, not to mention the looks his so called friends were giving his woman.
Josiah silently groaned and sent up a prayer. 'Please, Lord, don't let her do what I think she's going to.'
Adrian took a deep breath and mentally shook her head… it was now or never. With a small smile and a smoldering look she slipped her hand into her bra and pulled out a small foil package. Keeping eye contact with the blond, she slid the package in front of Larabee and gave him a slow wink and an invitation in the form of another smile.
All movement at the table came to a screeching halt!
Buck closed his eyes; there it was the wreck of all wrecks.
Sanchez cursed his God and wondered when the Devil had taken over.
JD looked from Adrian to Ezra to Chris, wide-eyed.
Vin groaned, 'why the hell did she have to do that?' he thought then mentally chastised himself, 'why the hell shouldn't she?' After all what was good for the gander, was good for the goose… or some such. Of course, Chris wouldn’t have been his first choice. Of all the contact Tanner’s had with Delaney he hadn’t seen her in this light before. Given what he saw of Adrian now, the Texan was slightly jealous of not being the object of her desire, then embarrassed that he had that thought to begin with.
For his part, Chris looked at the woman sitting across from him with continued open appraisal. The wanton looks directed his way definitely promised a wild night, and for a split second, he actually contemplated taking Adrian up on her offer. That is, until he flashed on Kate's blue eyes and shapely body. Ezra's furious countenance was a good deterrent, as well.
'Oh no, this was not going to happen,' Ezra thought to himself. Standish couldn’t believe what he was seeing. What in the world was Adrian thinking? There was no way he was going to allow Larabee to hit on his woman. He was going to put an end to this… now!
Kicking his chair out of the way, the southerner contemplated laying Larabee out, just for the hell of it. Instead, he thought of a better idea. Stalking over to the brunette, he pulled out her seat. Reaching out and grasping her wrist before anyone could react, Ezra hauled her to her feet. Giving Chris a glare worthy of any the leader could muster, Standish stalked off, dragging a stunned Adrian along with him
Delaney knew she wanted to leave with a man… just not this one. Trying desperately to wrestle her arm from Ezra's grasp, Adrian attempted to dig her heals into the floor to prevent her ex lover from dragging her to god knows where.
Determined, Ezra continued to make his way to the back of the saloon, despite Delaney’s struggles.
Adrian began cursing in Gaelic while attempting to wrench her arm away from Ezra. She didn't care about making a scene. All she wanted was to get away from the southerner.
Standish grinned at the words coming from his woman's lips. His eyebrows rising at a few choice phrases, knowing that what she proposed was impossible. The southerner was pleased that she'd switched tongues. It showed the depth of her feelings for him. He knew Adrian enough to be pretty certain of this. She would never behave in this manner if she hated him. If she truly loathed him, Delaney would yell at him in English, letting everyone in the place know how she felt.
Catching Inez' eye, Ezra nodded to the back room, that served as Ms. Recillos' office.
Confused by what she was witnessing, the barkeep nevertheless gave her consent.
Standish smiled and continued his determined stride, not once letting go of Adrian as he did so.
~~7~~
As the door to Inez’ office slammed shut, Buck turned to Chris and, with a concerned look, asked, "you weren't going to take that little gal up on her offer, were you?"
Larabee had silently watched as Ezra dragged Adrian away, admiring the view. He couldn't deny the brunette's appeal, hell why should he. After all, he was a healthy male and Delaney was definitely an attractive female. Raising an eyebrow, he turned back to Wilmington, "Hell, Buck, I'm not dead!" Chris stated giving his oldest friend the look that said he would have taken what was offered. In the days after Sarah, Larabee readily admitted to himself, he had been a right bastard. He would have taken Adrian home and had his way with her, not caring if it was the right thing to do. Just so long as it had scratched his 'itch', that's all that counted.
Today… well he was different. He'd managed to work through a lot of issues since the loss of his family. Kate had been paramount in making him realize what kind of man he was turning into. Falling in love with the blonde had been the biggest change. Looking at his friends he inwardly winced at the disappointed looks directed his way. Sighing, he shook his head, "maybe before Kate, but not now. I've got more than I can handle without courting trouble." Taking a sip of his drink, he tapped the condom on the table and looked each man in the eye, "you can't tell me that if Adrian had propositioned you, that you wouldn't have considered it… even just a little?"
Observing the blushes and quick denials, Chris smiled smugly.
Buck had the grace to look guilty, "ok, you're right, stud. She's a sexy little thing, but judging by tonight, our ornery southerner is still staking claim. Ezra looked like he'd shoot anyone trying to jump it."
Nathan groaned at the rogue's description, "Buck… that's just crude." Of course he couldn't deny it, Ezra did look like he'd cheerfully pull the trigger on anyone who'd mess with his woman.
"True though, Nate. Ez looked about ready to scalp the cowboy, can’t say I’d blame him," Vin snickered. He was pleased to see the southerner's reaction to his lady trying to seduce another man. Tanner firmly believed that sometimes you have to go a little caveman, if you want to get what you desire.
JD was a little shocked at the events of this evening. He was embarrassed to admit that he had found Adrian attractive. He thought it wasn't very nice of him to think that way about a friend's gal, but judging by the replies of the others, he relaxed and couldn't help but admit, "it's her voice, it should be outlawed."
Josiah chuckled at the young computer expert's comment. Thankfully he hadn't been attracted by Adrian's charms. He smiled as he remembered Ezra's not so subtle warning to 'behave' himself while Delaney lived with him.
~~7~~
Slamming the door behind them, Standish spun Delaney around and released her. Confident that she couldn't leave the room, he stood and waited. He cursed inwardly at the fear that shone from her hazel orbs. His eyes widened as her hands came up in a defensive move. 'Where the hell did that come from?'
Momentarily shocked, Ezra's agile mind tried to understand what was going through her head. He took a step back and held out his hand in supplication, showing Adrian that he wouldn't hurt her. Ezra remembered his conversation with Larabee on Wednesday, and knew that if he came on too strong he'd frighten and push Adrian even further away.
Delaney's reaction spoke of fear as she held up her arms as if to fend off a blow. When none was forthcoming however, she lowered her limbs and backed up another step. Rational thought fought hard with learned behaviour and Adrian mentally shook herself for thinking that Ezra was anything like the others. It was difficult to eradicate the emotions and old terrors that had flooded back though. Instincts made her want to flee, but she was trapped. The only way out of the office was to go through her ex-lover.
The brunette tried to gather her scattered thoughts, panic and fear foremost in her mind, Adrian could still feel the lingering touch of Ezra's hand as it had clamped around her wrist. As quickly as it had flared though, her panic melted and anger seeped in. Delaney was suddenly infuriated at the southerner’s rough handling of her person. Ghostly images of violent instances flashed before her and she began to see red… Standish had no right to manhandle her. Not only was she not going out with the man anymore, she was never his property, and no one was going to treat her as such again. Before she even realized what she was doing, her right hand flashed out and she slapped the southerner across the cheek.
Ezra felt the sting of the slap, knowing he deserved it for the rough handling of his love. He didn't regret the few moments of caveman behaviour that had over whelmed him as he watched his woman blatantly proposition another man. The southerner’s only lament was that he had frightened her. He rubbed his cheek and contemplated what to say to Adrian, before she attempted to bolt and then all would be lost.
Before Ezra could open his mouth, Adrian started ranting, "What the hell do you think you're doing?" the brunette demanded, "who gave you the right to drag me here? You and I are finished."
As much as Ezra was attempting to stay calm and not grow angry, he snapped, "what right? You come waltzing into the Saloon, dressed like that, and proposition Mr. Larabee, and you ask me what right I have?" Standish asked amazed. Did she truly believe he wouldn't react to that first blatant 'slap' in the face?
Thinking about his behaviour over the past three weeks, as well as his inaction since Adrian dropped her little bomb, Ezra realized that he'd done nothing to refute her thoughts. He had been so wrapped up in his own anger and self-pity, that the southerner tried to rationalize his behaviour as 'giving' Adrian some time. Obviously that had been the wrong tactic to take with his lover. 'Well fine then' he thought, 'it was time to lay down the law and inform his woman of the way of things.'
Adrian stared at the man. She couldn't tell what was going through his mind. It made her nervous. The brunette also couldn't believe she'd hit him. At the time it seemed like the thing to do. Unfortunately, the more time that passed with Ezra doing nothing, the more dread Delaney felt. Part of her was mortified at her behaviour in the bar, another part was furious with Ezra. He had no right to haul her away and cause a scene. While still a third reveled in the reaction she got from the southerner. Adrian was annoyed with herself for the last thought. She shouldn't care about what he thought anymore.
Ezra took a deep breath and took a slow step towards Adrian. He continued to move forward, compelling Delaney to back up until she was flush against the far wall of the office, without once coming in contact with her. The southerner knew if he touched her, he wouldn’t be able to resist taking her into his arms. With a scant inch between them, Standish started to speak softly, not wishing to frighten or anger the brunette any more by raising his voice, "things are far from finished between us. Oh no, darlin, and Ah aim to prove that to you."
"Let me go! You have no right to hold me here!" Adrian stated, though she made no move to leave. The look in Ezra's green eyes prevented her, "we have nothing to say to each other. Your actions told me everything…" she trailed off as Ezra grinned. Delaney swallowed hard at the glint in the man’s eyes. As much as she hated it, she couldn’t prevent her body from reacting to his gaze. Her heart sped up, and she had trouble focusing on his words.
"Agreed! Ah can see that tonight you won't listen to me. That I accept. But I'll tell you one thing… you're mine. Ah won't let you go. I will do anything to win your favour." All he wanted was to make her believe that he would prove himself worthy, that he would win back her love. Ezra was going to further explain that to the brunette, but allowed himself to be pushed away when he saw the flash of anger in Delaney’s hazel eyes.
"How dare you! I'm not a possession to be owned!" Adrian hissed, past fears rising once again. She wasn't someone's toy to be coveted and locked away. Delaney wanted to lash out once more and was about to when Standish gently touched her cheek.
"See, that's where you're wrong," he whispered in her ear, "ah do own you. Ah have possession of your heart and soul. Just as you have mine." Ezra purred causing the brunette to shiver, "Ah hope to prove it to you soon," he continued to murmur as he released Adrian and stepped away from her.
Dazed, Delaney just stood there, anger, fear, and deep down arousal warring for dominance. Looking up into Ezra's eyes, she shuddered at the raw emotion visible. Unsteadily, she groped for a chair and shied away from Standish when he tried to lead her to the closest one.
Ezra looked down at his love and smiled. Instinctively knowing that he shouldn't push any more this evening he stepped further away from Adrian. Standish was satisfied that he'd let his woman know the score, he would back off and allow her to comport herself once again. This was just the first battle; there would be a lot more work to do.
He wouldn't attain forgiveness overnight; Ezra was convinced that a long campaign was called for. Right this minute, Standish was satisfied, that Adrian didn't hate him, no matter what she professed. Anger, distrust, yes they were there and rightly so, but the passion was there as well. The southerner could see it deep in her eyes. Delaney was fighting herself and her demons. The green-eyed man just had to work at proving he was worthy of it… That he deserved a second chance. Ezra had his work cut out for him.
Delaney was overwhelmed. Nothing was going as she had planned. The brunette felt completely off balance. She didn't know what to do or think. Adrian had been prepared for his anger, his scorn, and his confession that he no longer cared. But not this… "You can't win. There's no way I'm going to forgive you," Adrian stated, not realizing she had spoken aloud.
Standish had been headed towards the door and stopped when he heard Adrian's declaration. Turning to face his love, he smiled gently, "oh, nymph, Ah have to win and gain your forgiveness. Otherwise life is meaningless." With that he winked and left the stunned woman staring after him.
Ezra leaned against the closed door and took a deep breath. The southerner acknowledged that he had much to do before he could declare victory. He wasn't stupid enough to think that it was going to be easy, but hope was there, and the final objective was worth everything.
With that thought firmly fixed in his mind, a wide smile slid across his features. The agent shoved himself away from the door and sauntered over to his associates.
Standish leaned over and snatched Vin's shot glass and tossed back the whiskey it held.
Tanner once again looked stunned, "why are they picking on my drink?" he muttered balefully at the once again empty glass.
Ezra felt remarkably like his old self; he could take on the world, and not only survive, but win as well. He couldn't hold back the pleased smirk as he clapped Josiah on the back, "Mr. Sanchez, ah would ask a favour of you."
Josiah had been worried ever since Ezra dragged Adrian away. Only Buck and Nathan had prevented him from following. Now he looked up at his southern friend and found no trace of anger on his visage. The profiler hoped that it was a good sign, "what do you need, son?"
Ignoring the ex-preacher's use of the word 'son', Ezra continued, "Ah would ask that you ensure that Ms. Delaney makes it safely to your abode," Standish asked formally, but couldn't help grinning cheekily, "Ah believe Adrian may be in need of someone to talk to. Ah've left her a bit… befuddled."
"Befuddled?" Josiah queried.
The southerner nodded, still grinning like a fool, "indeed… Well, gentlemen, I must be off. The game's afoot as Mr. Holmes was wont to say. So Ah'll bid you adieu." With that he saluted the table and, catching Larabee's eye, made it clear that he was to stay away from his woman.
Larabee acknowledged the look with one of his own.
Ezra nodded in agreement and tipped an imaginary hat at Chris, then, turning, he left the saloon.
The remaining men watched Ezra's departure, the strains of the Battle Hymn of the Republic wafting behind him, as Standish whistled jauntily.
~~7~~
Buck watched Ezra leave and started laughing, "don't that beat all?" The rogue looked at Tanner who was still mourning the loss of yet another drink and slid his own to the Texan.
Smiling his thanks, Vin firmly held the glass, "what do you think happened back there?"
"I think Ezra declared war," JD smirked.
"Well it's about time," Nathan stated. He hated to admit but he'd missed that cocky southerner attitude these last weeks.
Chris silently agreed. The blond knew that he would have to declare his own war with Kate before things could get back on track.
"Well, brothers, I'm going to check on Adrian. I'll see you tomorrow," Josiah stood and put some money on the table and headed towards Inez' office. Sanchez opened the door and smiled at the sight before him. The brunette was sitting on a chair, deep in thought. Her brow furrowed, as she seemed to be muttering to herself.
"Adrian? Are you ok?" the big man asked.
Delaney looked at the profiler, "I think I'm in over my head? He said he was going to prove himself to me." She was still overwhelmed by what Ezra had told her. She knew that the anger would return later, once she got over the shock. Then she would be able to think clearly once more.
"Then he's a smart man," Josiah commented with a grin. He held his hand out and helped Adrian to her feet, then wrapped her in his strong arms.
Delaney clung to Sanchez and silently shed a few tears. Once recovered, she gently pushed herself away from him.
With a feather light touch, the profiler brushed away a stray drop from her cheek, "come on, let's get you home."
Delaney nodded and with a small grin, allowed herself to be led to the door.
The two walked by the rest of Team 7 and continued to the entrance. Adrian was glad that they hadn't stopped. She didn't quite know what to say to them. Now that she had some time to think, she was mortified at her recent behaviour. She didn't know where her life took a wrong turn; all she knew was that it was spinning fast out of control.
Once safely seated in Josiah's car, the brunette leaned back and sighed. All she could think of as Sanchez drove through the streets of Denver was, "what am I going to do now?"
TBC
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