Zeke: I pushed my way out of the crowd and then pressed my phone back to my ear, “Sorry, I can hear you now, say that again?” I listened to the female on the other end of the phone. She explained there had been an incident and the boss needed me back at work immediately. I nodded to no one in particular and then hummed an affirmative that I’d be back within fifteen minutes. As soon as I hung up I raced to my car, thankful I’d listened to my gut and hadn’t drunk more than I had. Sticking to the water after the first beer and the small taste of amber liquid that Vincent had bought for me. The food had soaked up most things, and I didn’t have far to go. I had no idea what the fuck could have happened, but for some reason Venn immediately came to mind. The quick drive back to the office was faster than the trip I’d taken to the bar, traffic much lighter now than it had been, making the trip a little more enjoyably. I bolted from the car in through the front doors, waving my hand at the main reception before racing up the stairs and into the main pit of desks and offices. The office I was looking for had the door open and I could see the man inside that I wanted, his head lifted when he heard the commotion, “Zeke, come in and shut the door.” I frowned, uncertain where this was going. Had there been an incident? I didn’t voice my thoughts, instead I did exactly as I’d been asked and then took a seat across from the less than impressed looking man.
Little more than 10 minutes after I closed the door, I threw it back open again and growled, “No fucking way, he won’t go for it and why am I getting the short fucking straw?” I threw my hands up when I was given the list of reasons as to why it was my deal and why I was to do exactly as I’d been told. FUCK! I growled and shook my head, “Fine, I’ll go and deliver the good news. Just as soon as I find out how he’s doing.” I snorted and stalked off towards the cells, my eyes widening as I noted the amount of people hanging around. Some of them had been on duty, but there was also paramedics there and officers I knew damn well weren’t ever on duty this late. I slowed my steps as I got closer and then frowned when the male I’d come to see came into view. He was thrashing around hard and the officers seemed to be having real difficulty keeping him down. The needle in one of the paramedics hands hadn’t been used yet from what I could see. I stepped through the door and raised my voice, “All of you, put him down and move away from him. You with the needle, get the fuck out a minute.” I watched as they looked at me like I was mad, I shrugged a shoulder and then gestured with my hand, showing my insistence that they hurried the fuck up before I lost my patience. Only once they started letting go off the flailing limbs did I address the man himself, “Venn, It’s Detective Cabot. I’m here to help. Can you calm down for me, please?”
Venn: {The more cops who came into the cell, the more I fought. I wasn’t going to let some dirty bastard take me out just because he thought he could. Plus, I figure the more fuss I put up, the more witnesses I would have if something did happen to me. The pain in my ribs fueled me, but I knew once the adrenaline wore off it was going to hurt like a bitch. I didn’t care though. I was using every bruise and injury I got to get my case thrown out. Even when they pinned me down, I fought. Biting, head butting, anything I could to keep them from getting too much control. Then I saw the needle, bright and shiny and heading my way. I thrashed harder. I hated drugs of any kind. I didn’t like my senses dulled if I could avoid it. I cursed him and spat at him to keep him away, then I heard a voice that was growing more ingrained in my brain. The asshole responsible for putting me here to begin with. Calm down. The fucker wanted me to calm down? Was he out of his ever-loving mind with that shit? Hands let me go and I shot up into sitting, grimacing hard as my ribs protested the sudden movement, but it did nothing to tear my gaze from the detective as I stared daggers at him. My words came out in a sneer before I could stop them} How nice of you to join me, Detective. You planning on getting your shots in too? It’ll fit right in with what your asshole partner started.
{I watched the guards and everyone else milling around from the corner of my eye, refusing to break that eye contact once I had it. Apparently someone called him, but I wasn’t sure that was a good thing. I still didn’t know if this was one big good cop/bad cop bullshit. Where they setting me up thinking I’d be so grateful to him for coming to my rescue that I’d give some coerced confession? If it was, right now he was giving a good performance as someone who gave a damn. He looked pretty damn good while doing it too. Asshole. I wiped at my bloody lip with the back of my hand and groaned quietly as I tried to focus. I swung my legs over the side of the bed and grimaced again as I pushed myself to stand. I was tired of being looked down upon. I walked closer to the Detective} Here, I’ll even make it easier for you to take a swing.
Zeke: I watched as Venn stopped struggling slowly, his awareness slowly seeping into his features before he looked around the officers surrounding him, and then at me. Great. I didn’t bother smiling, I wasn’t about to bullshit the man about what was happening. And I now had my orders, orders I knew he wasn’t going to like. I had to fight not to break eye contact when Venn pushed to sitting and glared at me. I could see the pain in his movements. The fact he was watching his ribs. His face was bruised, the lip being the most obvious injury, though I was sure there was more. I could see the boot marks on his tee and the red skin around his throat. As well as the obvious marks where the officers had been holding him down. I shook my head and went to open my mouth to reply, I didn’t manage to get a word out before I was bumped into and given an update. I nodded my agreement that I’d get things moving and then turned back to Venn, my gaze settling on his once more. I frowned as the words rattled around my brain. There was no way Aiden would have done this to someone under our care. As far as I was aware there was no way Aiden would do this to anyone full stop. Despite the temper, I’d never seen him in more than a bar fight, and never one he’d started. I was lost in thought when movement caught my eye and snapped my attention back to the man who was now standing and stalking closer. He might have had a slight limp, but I didn’t drop eye contact just to appreciate the way he moved. He was confident, I’d give him that. But the fact his anger was leaking out wasn’t lost on me. I found that I have to try and get my brain to work again before I could speak. The step back that I was itching to take, a feeling I’d never had before. Instead I shook my head and then cleared my throat, tongue sliding over my bottom lip as I tried to select the words that wouldn’t send Venn on a nosedive, “We’ll talk more about this later. I want to hear what happened, and I’ll have to take a full statement. If you’ll sit back down, I need to get someone to look you over and make sure that there’s no need to take you to the hospital. Then you’ll be, um, no longer in this cell. We’re……” I winced as I tried to find a phrase that wouldn’t give anything away to the many officers still within earshot, “relocating you.” I nodded and took a step around Venn, though I stayed close, ensuring that no one else could get near him. I gestured towards the bed with one hand, my other motioning to the paramedic waiting on my signal to get himself ready for the check over. “Please, it’ll only take a few minutes to check you over and get your injuries wrapped and cleaned.”
Venn: {My patience and cooperation was pretty much nonexistent at this point so when the good detective started speaking of relocation and getting checked over, I snapped my jaw tight and glared daggers at the man. Who the hell did he think he was telling me I’d be giving him a statement, like I’d give him names so they could track my ass down again. Not while I was locked up like a damn animal. I stepped close still until I was no more than a foot away from him and pointed my finger at the assholes surrounding us, my eyes narrowing further} I will not sit down and there’s no damn way I’m letting any one take me to a damn hospital. I already know I’ll need a wrap for my ribs, they’ll try to give me something for the pain, something that will dull my senses, something that will make me more compliant for you. Well fuck that. You wanna talk, we’ll talk, Detective but not with all them assholes standing here. I’m done being the entertainment for the evening.
{My eyes may have remained on his face, but I still noticed the others fidgeting around us, waiting for me to attack him. Like I could with my ribs screaming bloody fucking murder at the moment. It was taking all I had to remain upright and breathing. That was boiled down to pure stubbornness on my part though. The initial attacker was long gone but that didn’t stop me from wondering if he’d return as soon as the coast was clear. All this over a stupid theft charge? That told me that there was a chance one of my jobs had been someone important or there was someone else pulling strings. There had to be. What the hell did Detective Tightpants get me into with this shit? Because really, it was all his fault dammit. Standing there, looking all free and shit, slight smell of beer but nothing too much that said he was out celebrating the collar. Not that I was noticing how he looked or smelled, it was proximity, that’s all. Wait…what did he say?} You say I’m being relocated. Why? Where? And why should I trust a damn thing you tell me right now? In case you hadn’t notice, your word hasn’t done me any favors.
Zeke: I narrowed my eyes at the man and listened as he got pissy while invading my personal space. It wasn’t like it was the first time someone had done this, but it was the first time my natural instinct wasn’t to shove them away. I knew he was frustrated, I knew the reasons why. He had figured he was untouchable. And now here he was, not only in a cell for the night, but also having been beaten pretty badly without being protected as he’d have expected from a police station. I had to admit I was fuming too. But no one was saying shit, and I’d been told to take him out of the place so that investigations could be worked out, and people could be spoken to quietly. I needed to get a description from Venn, his clothes to see what was on them and something to the effect of a statement telling me what had happened. None of that appeared to be on his agenda. I decided that compromise might be the best option, “My word hasn’t done you anything negatively either. I didn’t promise you shit other than you were getting a night in a cell, followed by many, many more unless you looked over my proposal with your lawyer. I want to help you, I do, but you have to help me first. Take off the shirt and pants and hand them over to Carter over there. Throw on the less than flattering replacements they have for you and then you and I can get somewhere else. At which point you’re welcome to talk as freely as you like without all these people around you watching you. But I can’t give you that until you do as I ask. I’ll even bypass the hospital, if you sign the form, and just take the stuff needed to clean up your face and wrap your ribs once we’re out of here. Either way, you’re not staying here and I need the clothes you have on. Neither of those is negotiable. So you can either do it off your own back, or you can have one of these delightful officers help you with it.” I hated to threaten, but I really did need Venn to get moving. The longer we stayed, the longer it took to figure out who was behind things It also gave whoever that was long enough to get into position to follow me when we left here and therefore stop pretty much any place being safe. I found myself meeting his gaze after speaking my mind, hoping he could see that I wasn’t only serious about my request, but also trying my best to get him out without any more pain on his part.
Venn: {I raised a brow as he tried to say this shit wasn’t his fault.} Hasn’t done me anything negative either? You mean that by keeping me here, I never should have expected not to get my ass kicked in the middle of the night? What you’re saying isn’t exactly installing any damn trust in you right now, Detective. For all I know you’ll lead me somewhere else for a beating for as good as your word is.
{I shook my head and grimaced as the pain shot a fresh wave of explosions behind my eyes. Asshole didn’t know that my lawyer had already convinced me to help, even after I’d been sprung as it would have helped my ass in the long run, but now…Now I planned on making the detective’s life a living hell. It was only fair after all. Thanks to him, my mother had to be moved, likely more than once before this was over, my bottom line was taking a hit, my reputation, and who the hell knows what else he was costing me. I leaned in closer with a wicked grin forming over my face.} If you wanted to see me naked, Detective, all you had to do was ask. {My voice dropped low enough only he could hear me as the rest of the sentence fell from my lips} I’m not real big on orders unless I’m the one giving them, Detective
{The last word dragged off slowly, almost a purr, as I stood back to my full height, or as full as I could with my body aching.} I don’t give free shows though, so if I’m changing I want privacy. I’ve already been searched, you know I don’t have any weapons or anything, so if you want me to cooperate, I’m asking for a little give and take here.
{My eyes met his with that same look of determination and seriousness he was trying to impress upon me. I knew they wouldn’t all leave, but they did manage to start turning around one by one, until only he remained watching. My brow shot up and I gave a small shrug as I peeled off the damn shirt, gasping for a breath and nearly doubling over as I dropped it to the floor, staying bent as the pants, dropped right after. I flashed him a wink as I forced myself to stand, letting him get the full damn monty before I pulled on the provided clothes. They were scratchy and cheap, reminding me of a time best forgotten. I was dressed and standing which was a miracle at this point} Happy now? Gimme the damn wrap for my ribs and whatever else so we can do whatever you need to. Know though that if anything else happens to me, your life won’t be worth living as I’ll make sure to destroy you any way I can.
{There was no heat behind my words at the moment, no matter how I meant them. My fight was leaving me and I was tired of it all}
Zeke I narrowed my eyes at the man in front of me and held my tongue, letting him vent. I was about to growl out an angry reply when the wink stopped me short. Mouth hanging open, I arched a brow and then shook my head. I wasn’t going to rise to this, that’s what he wanted. And while i couldn’t pretend I wasn’t affected, I wasn’t going to let him know that. He was trying to push my buttons and I could see the smirks from the other officers who knew that if he wasn’t a suspect I’d have happily called his bluff just to shut him up. Instead I stood and watched as he changed, ensuring that we got everything we needed bagged up before I nodded, “Very happy. Sign that form while I grab the bandage. You need to say that you’re leaving, though it won’t say where. I’ll get that part sorted once I am out of here.” I tipped my head and gestured for one of the paramedics to come forward, quickly talking to him to ensure that from what he’d seen there was no longer lasting injuries. He assured me there wasn’t that he could see, but if I was going to be with him, I had to keep an eye on him. I had a piece of paper shoved at me that showed me, with explanations, all the things I should be looking out for and which ones were an immediate trip to hospital. I nodded along with my understanding before taking the bottle of painkillers and the bandage, promising I’d get to it as soon as we were safe somewhere. After I was done with the paramedic I turned back around to the office who had taken all of Venn’s clothes, “Process that. You, no one else, is to stay with the clothes until they have been checked over and the results are in. I don’t care how annoyed they get, ensure you follow those clothes as closely as you can do.” I waited until the officer had nodded his understanding and moved away before turning my attention to the less than impressed looking Venn. He looked tired, like he’d drop at any minute. I needed to get him somewhere safe so he could start to regain his strength, he’d need it for court and whatever other shit storm he’d accidentally stumbled into. “Venn, you need to come with me.” I stepped up and pulled his hands in front of him gently, aware of his ribs, but knowing there was no way I was going to be allowed to walk him out of here minus the cuffs. “Sorry, formality, they’ll be off soon enough. Think you’re strong enough to carry a coat over them, or are you good with people seeing where we’re going?” I nodded towards the entrance to the cell and then started walking. Ensuring I had a coat for when we got out of the precinct, but not letting him linger anywhere. I needed to get out of here now protocol had been taken care of. I’d been given my instructions, and while I was sure Venn wouldn’t be happy about it at all. I hadn’t been left with a choice. I pulled open the door to my car and then waited while Venn caught up, gesturing for him to get in while keeping an eye on the surrounding area. I couldn’t allow our location to get out, so I had to do this fast and hopefully, I’d have Venn’s cooperation.
Venn: {I bit my tongue through the questioning and processing, answering only when I absolutely had to. Even on the car ride, I stayed silent and simply studied the detective. He tried a few times to initiate a conversation, but I was too damn exhausted to function let alone uphold a coherent conversation. We ended up at some rundown hotel, a temporary holding for the night until other accommodations were made he’d said. But I was so tired that I didn’t care where we were and I crashed out almost as soon as I saw the bed, shoes on and all. When I woke up, the detective was sitting at the small table, hunched over a stack of paperwork. I was willing to bet if he slept, it was minimal, likely too worried about me bolting to get some real rest. Not that I blamed him. He hadn’t gotten the chance to really explain this deal or what he needed from me and I had no assurances about my safety just as he had none that would guarantee I’d stay put. Had I had more energy, there is a good chance I would have tried to escape last night, but as it was I needed sleep and I apparently had felt safe enough in his care to do so. That spoke volumes about how damn tired I really was. I stayed as quiet as I could while falling slightly to get a better view of him. The faint light filtering in through the curtains enhanced the dark shadows under his eyes and made his eyes seem darker, more mysterious. Damn do I wish that meeting could have gone differently...}
Zeke: Once I’d pushed us forcibly through the web of corridors to the car, and then driven like I was on some kind of race again time, we arrived at the crappiest hotel I could find. One room, one bed and as soon as we’d walked in Venn has sprawled across it like he owned the place. Not that I blamed him, he’d not exactly had the best stay in the cell, and I didn’t know how much rest he’d had in the days running up to our meet. I left him on the bed and ensured the door was locked and I could set up at the table with the chair facing the door. That was I was able to see both Venn on the bed and any threats that may come through the door. I wasn’t really expecting any, but I wasn’t going to push my luck and let down my guard. I managed make it through the bathroom, throwing cold water over my face to try and get my brain to wake back up. Then I sat my ass in the chair and tried my best to get comfortable. I had the file with me that I needed to read through, as well as my phone. Though I had to be careful with that, since I knew that it could be traced. I kept my voice down and called through a few of my contacts, having polite and pretty meaningless chats with them about their lives and what they thought of their jobs or families or any other mundane thing I could think of. I squeezed in a chat about what I needed along the way, and then waited for the details to be forwarded back to me. It didn’t take more than a couple of hours to fix it all up so we’d have a safe place to stay. I hadn’t been settled long when there was movement on the bed out the corner of my eye. I figured the male would be up like a firework the second he woke up. So I waited to see what happened, and when he stayed quiet, I went back to reading through the files I’d brought with me, tapping on my phone every now and again to ensure I was happy with the random messages I’d been getting. I waited another ten minutes or so before tipping my head towards the male on the bed, wincing slightly at what I was about to do, “Sorry about this one, but I can’t take any chances.” I practically whispered before taking out two pairs of cuffs and making my way towards the bed, the clinking of metal the only noise that I was making. I needed to secure the man to the bed so I could piss and shower. I’d even offer him the same courtesy should he wish, after I was through. I circled around the edge of the bed and snapped the cuff onto one of his wrists before making my way to the bed frame to secure it to the metal headboard, “I really am sorry, but I feel horrible. I’m sure you do too. And I’m not wanting to chase you down the street when you get any ideas in your head about escaping.”
Venn: {I knew the moment he realized I was awake, but I wasn’t really in the mood for conversation just yet. I’d been beaten and moved about and needed a good pot of coffee to get things functioning. Besides, I wanted to be as passive as possible for the moment. Give me a better sense of the man under the badge. Different circumstances I felt things could have been quite interesting with him. When he turned towards me and I saw that wince, I knew I wasn’t going to like what he was doing. The cuffs he produced confirmed that fact. Nope. I was definitely not going to like what he was doing. I couldn’t wait until I was healed. Then we’d see how those cuffs really played out. My senses were still dulled and my head was in a complete fog from whatever the EMT had given me before I was released which allowed him to one cuff locked around my wrist but I fought him to keep it from connecting to the bed frame. I jerked my arm hard and used all my energy to flip off the opposite side of the bed, holding my cuffed hand before me as I backed towards the wall opposite the door. I had to fight the urge to double over in pain as my ribs screamed at me. My breath came out ragged as I narrowed my eyes at the asshole.} Fuck you. You want my cooperation, you’re gonna have to trust me. Besides, thanks to YOUR people, I’m in no shape to be running anywhere at the moment. Or have you forgotten the beating I got? Would you like to see the bruises again so you can go get your rocks off to them in the bathroom? Maybe this whole things a set up and the moment you cuff me you’ll let your buddy in to finish the job he started.
{I kept my eyes on him as I pulled the thin piece of metal from my pocket and began working it in the cuff lock, smirking at the man as I worked the lock until I heard the little click. I held the cuffs in my hands and kept my eyes on the detective. I didn’t move, but damn did I want to with the thoughts that were starting to form in my head. I shouldn’t be a dick because he had been mostly decent through it all, but I was feeling the need to let him know I was done being pushed around.} Hotel beds are amazing little pieces of work, little finagling and you never know what you’ll find. I think next time though, these little silver bracelets will be wrapped on your wrists instead. Cuff you to the bed or to the chair, get a few hits in, or maybe I’ll take a different path to get you talking.
Zeke: I stepped backwards slightly, even though it was obvious Venn was going in the opposite direction to me. I almost stepped forwards to try and catch that lost cuff. But before I could I noted the pain on his face and realised that while he might have slept deeply for the last few hours, he was still injured. He’d taken a hell of a beating and it was something that I needed to be aware of, and deal with. I figured that moving around the bed wouldn’t do me any good and would likely end up with us both being in pain and injured. I shook my head instead and slowly put the other pair of cuffs on the bed, stepping back and trying not to be in any way threatening. I needed this male to trust me, or as much as he could. So far I’d not done much to garner that, so I needed to be careful. I found myself spluttering and then shaking my head with genuine emotion as I flicked my eyes up to meet the man still standing across the room from me, “No one knows where we are. That’s the point. It’s why I pulled you out so fast, and why I’ve been working while you slept to work out where we’d be next. Until we work this out. Someone wants you for……………….something. So we’ll figure it out. But you have to settle down.” I nodded and then ducked my chin to hide the reaction of the suggestion that the cuffs would be used on me. Nope, not going there. I needed to protect the man, not imagine what could happen if I were to let my guard down. And certainly not to think on where that would go if I was cuffed to any number of those places, beating or not. Instead I took a slow breath and then moved to the end of the bed and licked my bottom lip before speaking, “I need a shower, and I’d really rather know you were safe. I know your reputation, I’ve been chasing you for over 2 years now. Hurt or not, I know if you wanted to, you could escape without issue without me watching you. I don’t have the tracker for you just yet, since we left in such a hurry. So I have limited options.” I swept a hand around the room and then exhaled harshly, trying to work out what I could suggest without getting sucker punched, “So, options are I trust you, and if that goes tits up I lose my job, and probably end up with a hell of a lot of other shit being thrown at me too. I search you and cuff one hand somewhere with the hope there’s nothing in reach that would allow you to get out. I search you and cuff you in the bathroom where I can keep an eye on you and know that if you try to get loose, I can be close enough to deal with that.” I shrugged a shoulder and then moved to pick up the second set of cuffs again, “I’m happy to just cuff you with one hand if that’s easier on your ribs, which I should really check again to ensure they’re wrapped properly. The rest is up to you. What did you want?”
Venn: {I flicked my eyes from the cuffs on the bed to the detective as he backed away rather than charging at me. That gave me a slight bit of confidence he really wasn’t out to hurt me, unless he was fucking with me. If that were the case, well then I guess we’d see where things feel at that point. Right now I had to focus on remaining upright and not giving into the feeling of nausea that was threatening from the pain I was feeling. I raised a brow at his words. Not that I doubted that was what he believed. I could already tell that he’d gotten no sleep and all that. I knew this wasn’t our permanent location but I wasn’t sure I bought no one knowing where we were. He had to have back up somewhere, somewhere close even.} Does your partner know? Because despite what you wanna believe, he’ll not hesitate to throw us both under the bus at this point. Damned if I know why though. He’s hellbent on ruining you and using me to do it.
{I couldn’t help but grin as he ducked his head when my threat of cuffing him settled in. That image did dangerous things to me though and I had to remain on task or risk my damn life if I gave my trust to the wrong person. Still, that didn’t stop my gaze from following the path of his tongue along his lips though. My grin widened as he mentioned how long he’d been chasing me. I still wasn’t sure how he’d caught me this time other than sure luck on his part, but two years was a hell of an accomplishment. I groaned at my options until that final one hit my gray matter. All sense of self-preservation flew out the damn window as I let that image settle in. I lifted my eyes to lock onto his and grinned wide as I swung the cuff on my finger.} Why Detective, I do believe option three sounds like a winner to me. Though if we can avoid the cuffs until my ribs heal, I’d appreciate it. You’re still more than welcome to search me beforehand if you’d like.
{I flashed him a wink as I held my ribs with my other hand} And if you’d not mind checking my wrapping after you’re done, I’d more than appreciate that one.
Zeke: I blinked a few times, my brain telling me that of course I was sleep deprived and that he wasn’t at all saying what I thought he was saying. Why did I even offer that up. Mainly because I was confident he’d never choose it. Prisoners never did. Had I been in the same situation I’d have chosen the room, then found a way to get out and escape. In the bathroom with me, no way was he getting free. I’d notice that within seconds, if not less. Fuck! I dragged my teeth over my bottom lip as I growled softly while shaking my head, trying to remember what I had to answer before sorting out this shitstorm. “No, he doesn’t know. No one knows. I told you. My chief knows that I needed to get you out. Otherwise they don’t know where, when or how. I don’t know what to believe about him, but something went down. And as soon as I’m clean and feeling a little more awake, I’ll be happy to sit down and take a statement of what you heard and what was said.” I nodded and then walked around the bed to stand in front of the man, “Shoes off, belt off and down to just your tee. I’ll then pat you down before you come into the bathroom with me. I’m not taking any chances of you having something to injure me with or escape. I can’t promise no cuffs for tonight, but I’ll ensure they’re not pulling your ribs or causing any other injuries. It’s a precaution. But one I need right now.” I nodded and without thinking bent to tug at the laces of the boots that he was wearing. Figuring that he’d be unwilling to do it himself with the stress to his ribs. The rest he’d be able to do without really hurting himself, but bending down to untie shoelaces or take off his boots, that would probably be an instant no. And I wasn’t taking no for an answer. If his choice was the bathroom, then he was getting that shit off him asap. “Get the rest sorted while I start the shower and grab a towel. I’ll be back in a second.” I stood and narrowed my eyes for a minute as I watched him. He’d have time to make it to the door while I was in the bathroom. But I was going to try and trust him, thought it wasn’t easy. I inhaled hard and then nodded once, convincing my feet to move. I turned my back on the man and made my way into the small bathroom WIth the lid down I figured I could sit him on the toilet while cuffed to the pipe under the sink. It wouldn’t hold him if he was serious about getting out, but it should alert me to any movement he might make or any escape he’d try. Once I was happy with that, I got the mat on the ground and started up the shower in the tiny cubicle. I grabbed a towel on my way out and placed it on the sink before starting out of the bathroom to see whether Venn was ready to cooperate.
Venn: {It was fun watching as my response sink into his head. I was pretty sure he’d not expected my response just like he probably never meant to throw out the offer to begin with. I knew damn well I was in no shape to run anywhere just yet, so if I could avoid the damn cuffs and the fuss at the moment, I was going to. Plus…seeing how he was going to handle being wet and naked with me in the room was all kinds of worth it. My gaze fell to that well bitten lip as his teeth ran over the skin again, it was a sexy as hell nervous tick on him and the more I saw it, the more encouraged I was to see it again. I raised a brow as he told me we were essentially off of everyone’s radar and found myself letting out a low breath. I’d trust him for now as I had no other choice, but if he betrayed me, I would find a way to make him pay.} I’ll tell you exactly what happened but it won’t make a damn difference unless you can find a reason to believe me. If you don’t, we’re both just wasting our time, Detective.
{I waited until he undid my laces before kicking off my boots, my grin widening as he stood once more. If I wasn’t so damn sore, and the situation were different, this would be the start of a very interesting evening. I snorted when he mentioned not taking any chances with me. I fought when I had to, but that was it. Not that he’d believe me after earlier though. I had to bite my tongue as he gave orders though, it was not something I handled very well on the best of days.} Have you ever heard that expression you’ll get more flies with honey?
{I waited until his back was turned before I undid my slacks and kicked them off and started to take off the shirt I had on before damn near doubling over at the pain. I was bare from the waist down and fighting to pull the damn shirt over my head. Listening carefully to his movements, I tried to free myself before he returned. But with the way my ribs were protesting, it was a lost cause. Sucking in my pride, I let out a low breath and tugged the shirt back from covering my face when I heard the water. I kept my gaze trained on the bathroom door for him and called out loud enough to be heard.} Detective, I managed the pants, but if you want my shirt off, you’ll need to get over here and help me since I seem to be having issues.
Zeke: I shook my head on my way out the door, stopping dead in my tracks at the sight. Venn had his tee around his shoulders and otherwise nothing. Not what I’d asked. Though I couldn’t deny that the sight wasn’t one I’d complain about, internally anyway. Externally I was going to be professional, mostly, even if it killed me. “Belt and boots. That’s all I expected you to take off. And when did I tell you to take off your shirt? With your ribs I’m surprised you managed your pants. Can you put something back on?” I shook my head again and then got busy to ensure I didn’t linger too long on the male. He was more trouble than he was worth right now, and I just wanted this night to be done with so I could get him back to the cell and into the hands of someone else. I made a show of checking the door to ensure it was locked while trying to get my head into the mindspace I used when I was undercover. It was easier to not be myself right now. Stay professional, in control and without the embarrassment of whatever reactions came from seeing this half naked man in front of me. Once I was sure the place was secure I picked up the cuffs I’d discarded earlier and pointed at the bathroom, “Since you’re so ready to party, get in there and sit somewhere you’ll be comfortable for the next ten minutes or so. And if you can’t handle putting on pants again, throw a towel over the important bits. I guess I should just be glad you’re not about to run anywhere with your junk hanging out.” I gave a less than convincing smile as I checked the room over again, assuming Venn was doing as I’d asked, “I’m just going to grab my shit from the car. Get moving.” I grumbled at myself as I unlocked the door I’d just double checked and then ducked out to the car. Thankfully it wasn’t all that far from the room, and with the door wide open, I still had a clear view of the room. Not that I expected Venn to run, with his ribs as they were, he’d struggle to run more than a couple of feet before the pain got too much. I grabbed the bag I always kept in the boot and ran back inside quickly, the lights and beep from the car locking about the only thing happening in the otherwise silent hotel. I quickly pushed the door closed and locked it again before making my way to the bed. I threw a few clean clothes out of the bag and dug down until I found my wash bag. With a satisfied nod I turned to check the bathroom, my sigh heavy as I made my way towards the inevitable fight I was sure was brewing. Venn was being cuffed to something whether he liked it or not. No way was I trusting him just yet. I hadn’t earned that from him, and he’d certainly not earned it from me.
Venn: {I let out a snicker before covering with a cough as the detective bitched about my clothing, or lack of. I was still fighting the damn tee and the pain that shot through me as I glared at him over the fabric} You said, and I quote ‘down to just your tee’ Detective, I was simply following orders like a good little prisoner. No sense wearing a shirt with nothing else. Plus I figure if I’m naked, you know I’m not running anywhere and I don’t need the fucking cuffs so that maybe I can go five minutes without hurting myself. I think you got a good twenty four hours before I can move without wanting to double over at least, then we can discuss the cuffs. I think we need to start working on that trust thing, so I want some answers as to why I’m here and why your partner wants to shut my ass up and what you need me for.
{Asshole was already heading out the door before I finished speaking, my arms still all tied up in the fucking teeshirt. Brutality, this was more fucking brutality. I shuffled to the bathroom, using the doorframe and counter space for leverage as I finally worked the damn tee over my head. I took a quick piss and washed my hands before slamming down the lid and dropping a towel over the cold ass plastic, then took my seat, dropping my tee in my lap while I waited for detective dickhead to come back. I heard the door open and felt every muscle tense in my body. I was trapped and damn tired of being treated like I was the dangerous one. If he came at me with the cuffs again, I was going to show them the proper way they were to be used. I kept my eyes trained on the door, pinning him with anger as he came into view, along with those fucking cuffs} That ain’t happening, Detective. If you can’t trust me to sit here, you might as well take my ass back to jail because I won’t be talking to you or anyone else. You try to put them on me and it’ll be the end of any cooperation between us when it comes to this case.
Zeke: I narrowed my eyes the minute he came into view. That mouth firing off as soon as he saw me. Or more correctly, as soon as he saw the cuffs. I didn’t bother replying at first, instead moving back out into the room to lock my gun away so I was sure it couldn’t be used against me. Though if he wanted to he could probably break in, he was a world renowned thief after all. I only had to hope that he’d have to take time to do that, and I’d have figured out he’d moved and come after him before he managed to actually get into the safe. I kept a knife on me though, I didn’t give a shit about it getting wet, and while I knew I could take the guy in a fair fight even on his best day, I wasn’t taking any chances. Once he was in eyeshot once more, sitting where he’d been the entire time I’d been faffing around, I stopped in the doorway to speak with him. I’d sympathised when we’d picked him up at first. He wasn’t someone who fitting into a box, and certainly not someone who we would normally pick up to hold. The fact that things had gone to shit in the cells wasn’t his fault either. But I’d been working to fix that meeting with him for the best part of a week, and showers were few and far between when I had to make things move quickly. It involved a lot of meets and quick changes. I was not going to let his petulant behaviour deter me from having a damn shower, and fucking well enjoying it. I exhaled hard and nodded, he was right though. No way would he manage any kind of escape as he was. He’d been worked over very well by whoever had hit that cell with him. I was still waiting on the security footage, if there was any to be found. But I’d get a full statement from Venn come the morning. The threat of finishing the communication between the two of us wasn’t something I could risk. Especially with the reaction of my partner when faced with him one on one. And now getting the shit kicked out of him. I growled and tugged at my tee, hoping most of the battle scars weren’t obvious in the ridiculous lighting of the bathroom. I loved my job, but it took a toll on my body when I got on the wrong side of the wrong people. I wasn’t shy though, which made it easier to basically strip in front of the man. It wasn’t like he was making it easy, sitting there without flinching. I had to wonder where the hell he got so much confidence and why I didn’t feel like I was entirely in charge of the situation. It was probably why I wanted the cuffs. Stop myself feeling so off balance on a case I should feel like I held all the cards. “Fine. No cuffs. I need your cooperation, and after we both try and get some sleep I’ll speak to my boss and see what the updates are from today. Then we can go from there. I’ll take your statement first thing in the morning. Unless you feel that now would be better? Since I don’t want you missing anything out. I know they spoke to you while they were patching you up before I got there, but I am going to ask you to go through it again with me. I’m still armed, so don’t try anything. I want to keep you alive and breathing. I’ll wrap your ribs once I’m clean. It’s been a week since I’ve had a proper shower with chasing your ass down to get that meeting. You’re not at all easy to get a face to face with.” I shrugged a shoulder as I spoke. Trying to ease the topic away from the cuffs, the beating and the fact that he was currently here purely so we could keep him safe enough to lock up. Not that the face to face was the way to go about it, but it was at least a start. I wasn’t about to start in on personal shit. I dropped my shirt outside the bathroom and quickly left the rest of my clothing there too. I had fresh stuff on the table, barely two steps away from the bathroom so I could quickly change once I was clean. I almost groaned at that thought. I could almost taste the water. How easily I was pleased after just a few days without the simple pleasures of a shower. “Stay put and the cuffs will stay outside this room, ok?” I narrowed my eyes as I walked past Venn and cranked the water lever on so it could start to warm up.
Venn: {I kept my eyes glued on the detective as my words sunk in. I’d been through enough shit, hadn’t fought to get away. I wasn’t stupid enough to run and give them more reasons to try to hold me with their bullshit charges. Let my fucking lawyer earn his damn retainer and get me off clean. That would be more of a fuck you to the detective over anything else. But if he wanted to be a cock swinger to put me in my place I’d have no issues taking my stand. He must have seen I was serious he ducked back out with out a word. I heard the safe and snorted to myself. Hotel safe’s were child’s play. The detective had to know that. Was that his slight showing of trust. Something that was supposed to put my mind at ease? If anything it told me he had enough confidence in his other skills that a bullet wasn’t necessary. Based on the solid muscles I’d glimpsed beneath his shirt, I didn’t doubt that one. I didn’t move from my spot. Stubbornness was a trait I’d long possessed. So when he popped back in to view, I simply raised a brow at him as he started removing clothes. My suspicions of him being solid were confirmed as the shirt came off, revealing ink and hard lines and more than a few faded scars that showed me he wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty in the line of duty.} Take your shower detective, maybe I’ll talk tonight, maybe I won’t. Either way, you do what you need to do. I doubt the beating will be leaving my mind any time soon. After all, I’ll need to document it for my own case, won’t I?
{My grin was full of mirth when I lifted my gaze back to his. The beating definitely gave me leverage, yet it still hadn’t stopped me agreeing to help him. He just didn’t need to know it yet. I was curious why his partner had such a hard on over him and in turn over me and I knew I’d not be able to figure that out on my own. But I didn’t mind letting the good detective sweat it over a bit. I let my eyes run appreciatively over his body once he was stripped clean save for the knife he apparently planned to shower with. The things I would do to him in different circumstances. Apparently my cock agreed and I was forced to adjust the teeshirt in my lap to disguise that one.} Told you I wasn’t going anywhere, besides, why would I want to miss out on a free show?
Zeke: I turned while I waited on the shower to warm up, my gaze landing on and holding the man currently clutching his shirt. I refused to let my eyes drop lower than his face, if I did that there was no way he’d not see, and no way he’d not say something about it. While he could try to make me uncomfortable, I was not in such a fortunate position. Sure I could cuff him, or get all up in his space to try and intimidate him. But I needed him to actually speak to me, in some way trust me. For tonight and for however long this trial went on for. I’d have contact with him throughout, and I didn’t want to fuck him over or fabricate anything. I had more than enough evidence squirrelled away to nail him to a wall for a good few years. However, if I was to do something that was interpreted as inappropriate, there was little I could do but watch a large proportion of my case flush down the shitter. I might still have evidence, and technically be in the right about what he’d done. But I’d have lost the judge, the jury and probably my backing from my chief. If I hadn’t done anything and he lied, I could swing that. If I actually cross a line, then I’d have to own up, it was just the kind of person I was. And so I kept my eyes focused, even when I saw his own slowly move over my body. It felt like he’d left a trail of fire in it’s wake. I gritted my teeth to stem the shiver from actually showing. When the steam started to sneak out from behind the glass square of the shower I exhaled slowly. “This free show is about to have a no incident shower, hopefully with enough time to relax a little. Did you also want to use the shower after I do, or are your ribs too sore?” I spun the knife in my hand and then placed it inside the cubicle, within easy reach, but far enough out of the way that I’d not knock it around while I was washing myself. I tugged the glass door shut behind me and slowly stepped under the warm spray, practically groaning at the feel of the heat as it pummeled against my muscles. My voice raised to be heard over the water, “If you want to document everything tonight, you can. We can always re-evaluate it tomorrow in case you missed something or remember something else over night. It’s not exactly like protocol is being kept to 100%. So long as I get the facts down and you’re happy with the account, I’ll sign to say it’s all correct.” I nodded to myself, giving a quick look through the glass to ensure that he was still sitting where I’d left him. Satisfied, I started to lather up the soap so I could give myself a proper wash, far more pleased than I should have been about such a simple act.
Venn: {I lifted my eyes back to his, wondering idly if he saw the heat in them that I was almost positive was very evident. Damn. I really wish I had met him one night later, after I had taken care of some things. Especially as it didn’t seem I’d be getting a break any time soon. A slow grin formed on my face as I noticed his jaw tightening, it was fun toying with him. At the end of the day, I may be a thief, but I wasn’t a bad guy. Retrieving stolen goods for others was what I was good at, and no one else seemed willing to help. The quicker I helped the detective, the sooner I could work out my own deal and get back out there. I held up my hands, leaving the tee in my lap} Please, don’t let me stop you from enjoying your shower, Detective. I would actually like to get in there too, when you’re done, of course. Besides if we’re spending time together, it’d be better if we didn’t stink up the place.
{My grin grew lecherous at the thought and again I cursed the fates for the way we were brought together. My gaze followed him right into that steamy water and I let out a low groan I’d been holding in once he was sealed off inside, hoping the water would drown it out. I watched as well as I could through the steaming spray, I wasn’t going to miss out on the show, no matter how innocent it might be.} I don’t mind telling you what happened, get it down on paper or whatnot so you can do with it what you need to. My lawyer’s going to be wanting some information too so you’re likely gonna need to tell me what your plan is here before he gets all threatening down at the station.
{I shrugged a shoulder lightly, careful of the damn ribs. Looking down I saw the molted skin and even the outline of heavy soled boots imprinted there. I know they took pictures before we left, but actually seeing it now, I could see how lucky I was to make it out of there still walking. All because, what, Cabot was the better of the two partners? There was more to it, but I wasn’t sure I wanted to find out what that was. Not my circus…or at least it wasn’t until I got my ass kicked. I shifted on the toilet and turned my attention back to the wet and naked man in the shower, knowing at this rate I would need the shower quite cold to deal with things}
Zeke: The water felt amazing as I slowly worked the soap into a lather. Far more soap than I strictly needed, but it just felt so good to be clean, I wasn’t going to get out a second sooner than I needed. Venn could just get a numb ass waiting for me. Though, he had been through quite a bit already, and was probably feeling the pain of his ribs. The last thing I wanted was him to suffer any more. Fucking brain. It wasn’t meant to give me any kind of soft side. I needed to keep professional. I’d just have to tell myself that it was ensuring my witness was healthy and as happy as he could be. Since he was in a lot of pain, was probably hungry and sleep deprived. I made a mental note to ask whether he needed food, then figured I better ask while I remembered. I popped the door and leaned out to get a clear view of Venn, “Before I forget, are you in any way hungry? I can get a take out delivered if you want? I wasn’t sure if you managed to get through all the paperwork before dinner was finished at the station?” I left the door ajar as I carried on talking while getting the last of the soap off my skin, “And I’ll let you know what’s happening as soon as I know. So far all I have is tonight and then tomorrow morning sorted. Past that, you’re guess is as good as mine right now. You’re welcome to inform your lawyer of what is happening, but I can’t have you tell him where we are, we need to stay where only you and I know where we are. I have the paperwork if you don’t have the number memorised, but we’ll be phoning in the morning from a phone away from the hotel.” I nodded to myself before lathering up the shampoo in my hair, rinsing and then stepping out of the cubicle. The water easing to an annoying drip while I wrapped the towel around my hips. I turned again to face Venn and smiled slightly, “I’ll get you a towel if you want to get in the shower. I’ll find a wrap while you’re busy in there. I’ve probably got a spare t shirt as well if you wanted some clean clothes? I can’t do much about your jeans, but they don’t appear to be too badly fucked up. Should give you something to wear until bed and then tomorrow when we check in to find out what we’re doing. I can trust you until then at the very least, so we can both get some sleep?” I asked with hesitation clear in my voice, even though I tried to hide it. He had no reason to lie, but then again, he was good at sneaking around. Moving without being heard and getting in and out of places he shouldn’t be. So if I trusted him, I hoped he realised what a huge thing that was.
Venn: {I tipped my head slightly to try to catch the view through the door rather than the steam, but I couldn’t lean that far. Not without either being super obvious or hurting myself in the process. Instead I sat back again and shifted once more as I thought about the offer. I hadn’t thought about food since the arrest. It hadn’t been a priority and I often skipped meals while on the job, but the moment Detective Asshole mentioned food my stomach let out a loud growl that I would be surprised if he hadn’t heard over the water. Nodding more to myself since he couldn’t see me} I’m a cheap date, Detective, but I won’t turn down a bite to eat. Room service or take out from somewhere unhealthy, preferably.
{I rolled my eyes as he went on about staying in this situation for who the fuck knows how long. I was already twitching under my skin at the confinement. I closed my eyes for a moment and did some mental calculations. I’d already spent more time in this damn town in a stretch than I had anywhere else for who the hell knows how long. Now I was stuck, at least until I figured a way out of this situation. The detective swore he had evidence, but with the circumstances….no, I had bargaining power now. I lifted my eyes to the detective once he stepped out, my eyes carving a hot path along his tattooed chest as I watched the rivulets of water. } Tomorrow at the latest, otherwise he’ll be sending out the dogs and if this is all covert, you won’t want that.
{I groaned loudly as I tried to push up from the toilet. My legs didn’t want to work so it took several attempts before I could stand fully, the tee still held in front of my groin. I nodded and then shook my head slowly, both motions making my brain swish like soup. Or at least it was feeling that way. Tired, hungry, sore. All of that just made me resign myself to my fate for the moment and if the detective was half as good at his job as he said he was, he’d see just how done with it all I was.} Towel yes, please. I’ll sleep under the covers to preserve your delicate sensibilities, then toss my jeans on in the morning. If you can grab a robe or something I can wear while we talk, that’s all I’ll need. I’m beat so after the shower and some food, we can talk while we eat and save time that way, I’ll likely pass out until the roosters crow.
Zeke: I tipped my head as I watched Venn try to stand. I wanted to help, the detective in me was all about the whole protect part. But I wasn’t sure if I would be welcome to get him to his feet. So instead I carried on into the main room and left him to it. I could hear him though. Still see his gaze as it tracked the water that was dripping from my hair, down my chest and into the towel that was secured around my hips. That look was not one I should want to see again. Nor is it something I should think on further, what might happen if he was to actually touch me. Nope, that was off limits. He would be processed and then we’d see what happens. But whatever that was, jail or the proposition I’d left with him, he’d be under my protection. Or out of my reach. Both put him off limits. I was good at following the rules, mostly. I bent them on occasion, I had to in my job. It involved a lot of disappearing, getting to know people while playing a role so I could gather information. I had no one who was special in my life, so I was about as perfect as you got for this kind of work. I could be whoever, and say and do whatever, it took to get the job done. Mostly the males and females I interacted with had a type, and I fit it for the most part. From the cocky personality I could take on when I needed to, down to the height, build and tattoos. The females seemed to go crazy for those. Though I’d had my fair share of men lick their way along them as well. Shame most I had to knock out before they got much further. Sometimes though, sometimes even I couldn’t say no and had happily gone through with whatever. I wasn’t dead after all. In this case though, I had the information I needed and I just needed Venn to cooperate. Once he’d done that, and was happy to help me as and when I needed it, at that point I could get him sorted with a monitor and we’d start out slow for him. If he agreed. Otherwise he was off to prison for a fucking long ass time. I snorted to myself and shook my head, “Get in the shower, I’ll phone through for food and then I’ll wrap your ribs before you settle in to eat. Keep you from hurting them more in your sleep.” I picked up the phone in the hotel room and gave my order to the front desk. They assured it me it shouldn't be longer than 25 minutes, and I thanked them before asking for the money to be added to my bill as I didn’t have cash on me. They were more than happy to oblige before I turned and started to get dressed. I pulled on my jeans and then started to clear the table that we’d have to eat at. I’d managed to dump pretty much everything I had with me on top of it. I made small trips to the bathroom to check on Venn between moving things to different spots around the room. One trip I threw my wet towel across the top of the door and dropped a dry one on the sink for when he was done. Once I was happy, I grabbed the strapping I’d been given and sat down to wait for Venn to finish up.
Venn: {The detective barely vacated the room before I was gingerly stepping into the small glass cubicle. I let out a damn near sinful moan as the warm water sluiced over my battered and beaten skin. For a moment, I managed to forget all about he damned detective and he situation he got me into.And yeah, I knew what I was but it was his fault I was here, not mine. If cops did their damn job to begin with, most wouldn’t need my services anyway. I growled in frustration as my thoughts went back to the asshole and I forced them away, focusing once more on the water beating down on me. I grabbed the little bottle of shampoo and lathered up my hair before I grabbed the minuscule bar of soap and began to wash myself as well as I could. The water helped some of the aches, but there were others that no amount of hot water could ease. Those would simply take time. Time I would use to learn what I could. As this was the first time I’d been alone since that ill-fated meet, I leaned against the wall and simply let the water crash over me when I was done washing myself. I kept creeping the water hotter and hotter every time it cooled until it was maxed out and then just let it soak through me. I could hear the detective moving around in the other room but it was nice that he left me alone. He was probably no more thrilled to be here with me than I was with him. Though likely for different reasons I’m sure. I was merely a job to him, a pawn to help he accomplish what he needed. For me, he was now a thorn in my side. I wanted to hate him, to let all my anger pour into that hatred, but that was just me protecting myself from my own fucking mind. I always did want shit that was bad for me and he was definitely bad for me. I wanted to use my anger in other ways with him. Ways that would make me feel all kinds of better. That wasn’t going to happen. I groaned and glanced down before flicking the faucet all the way the other way until my skin pebbled into goose bumps and a chill worked itself down to my bones. Even then it took a while for my dick to get the hint that nothing was going to happen. Finally feeling a little in control of myself, I flicked the water off and stepped out, grabbing the towel he left on the sink for me and drying off as best as I could. My legs and back dripped but there wasn’t much I could do about it as I wrapped the towel around my waist. I was glad the mirror was fogged, I didn’t have any interest in seeing the bruises that marred my skin, I could only imagine how I looked. It was a good thing I had no one to impress. I stood in the bathroom longer than necessary before finally accepting I couldn’t simply stay in there all night and walked out, my fingers gripping the towel tightly as I stared at the detective before walking over to take a seat at the small table across from where he was.}
Zeke: I lifted my eyes slowly when I eventually heard Venn venture out of the bathroom. He’d been taking so long, I was about to ask if he’d gotten lost. But the fact he was taking his time wasn’t something I wanted to highlight. It didn’t impact on me, and I’d probably need it if I was in his shoes. Used to running under the radar and not being the main centre of shit. I also wasn’t sure how often he’d been in any kind of fight. By the looks of his hands, not all that many, since there didn’t appear to be any kind of defensive wounds there. Though, depending on who happened to beat the shit out of him, he might have got had time to get a look in. If that was the case, I was hugely surprised he was still alive. Which meant they wanted him alive, assuming the scare would be enough to turn him against doing whatever it was he wasn’t meant to do. I dragged my teeth across my bottom lip as I thought. Deciding my best bet was to just ask Venn what had happened and then we could possibly work together in figuring this shit out. I leaned forward and grabbed the bandage from the table before moving down to one knee in front of the man, “Lift your arms to the side and breath normally while I wrap these. It’ll feel tight, but if it’s too tight please let me know. I’ve done this a few times, but normally it wasn’t going to be on long enough for it to matter too much if I got it 100% right.” I shrugged a shoulder in apology and tipped my chin so I could focus on the male in front of me, glad he wasn’t fighting me all that much. I just hoped that I managed to do this properly, not that it’d make him feel any better come the morning. I frowned when I took a proper note of the various abrasions and other marks across his torso and up to this throat. Someone had really done a number on him, and I really was curious as to why he wasn’t a broken shell in the morgue right now, “They worked you over well.” I mumbled as I got to work. Leaning in to wrap the first piece around the widest part of his chest, then testing it a couple of times before I was happy with the placement. Once I was sure I could keep the end in place, I started to repeat the motion, having to lean closer than I’d really have liked each time I brought the bandage around his back, “I’m surprised they didn’t just kill you. You want to tell me what happened? Just start from the beginning as you remember it. I can record it if you want, or I can help you write it up once I’m finished here. I normally go over things more than once with someone, it sometimes means that we remember more as we go. Sometimes it just allow you to run through events and ensure we have it correct.” I smiled up at the male and tried to keep as friendly as I could. My brain was totally focused on my role in this, wanting to relax Venn and allow him to feel comfortable enough to talk to me. The fact I was enjoying this wasn’t something I was willing to entertain until much, much later.
Venn: {I damn near bit a hole through my lip when the detective knelt before me, my hands falling right to my lap. Hands he requested I lifted….right. I snorted and then shrugged, well, if that’s what he wanted. I grimaced and lifted my arms, leaning slightly forward to allow him more room to work. I stared over his shoulder and tried to ignore the fact he was this close, touching me as he was. I reminded myself he didn’t give two shits about me, like everyone else. He was only doing his job and needed my cooperation. My mental shields raised to cover the pain of both his actions and my own mentality. The only time I could lower my guard was in the shower and even then it was dubious.} It’s fine, I just don’t want to fuck it up more than it is. Since I can’t exactly get it looked at professionally.
{I nodded and signed at his proclamation about the asshole who did this. Killing me would have been too easy. Though I’m sure that would come soon enough. I tried telling him before, briefly. I didn’t even give the guy at the station all the information. I wasn’t sure who I could trust and usually when a cop heard it was one of their own who beat the beat down, well, it didn’t always go so swimmingly for the accuser. But there was something about the asshole in front of me that made me want to tell him the full story, warn him again that he was in danger. It was his fault I was in this damn situation and yet here I was trying to protect him however I could. I was so fucking stupid. Thankfully it only applied to my integrity and not the jobs I did or I’d have been caught long ago.} Papers get lost and shit. Record it on your phone, save it in multiple spots, back ups and all that shit. And the promise you’ll send me a copy too. I can’t access it now, nor can anyone else, but I want proof for my damn self since I was wicked away.
{I watched him carefully as he finished up the wrapping and then waited to see if he’d agree to my terms. It wasn’t like I was asking for the world, just a little insurance for myself. I’d already experienced the bad cop bullshit, I didn’t want to get screwed because I decided to give an ounce of trust to the detective. I knew the more I cooperated the better it would go for me, so I’d talk. I’d get his deal, then depending how this all worked out, that file could be deleted or sent up the chain}
Zeke: I glanced up at Venn and shook my head, “I can take you to the hospital if you want? The paramedics would have looked at you in the cell too, but it seemed like you wanted out of there quickly. Did you want me to stop so I can take you to get checked out professionally?” I leaned back slightly, my fingers still folded around the bandage that stuck to the man’s chest like a second skin. I didn’t want to push my luck, but I did want him to talk. I kept one hand plastered to his chest with the bandage secured and reached with the other for my recorder, “I’d use my phone, but I have it turned off and all that. I didn’t have time to do all the security measures to ensure it was ok for me to bring it before we left. I’ll use it in the morning when we go to get something to eat, then we can do check ins with your lawyer and my boss. For now, I’ll use this to record you. Whatever you say can then be kept and uploaded to my computer.” I nodded and fiddled for a second with the recorder, settling to both knees as I tried to hold the bandage still and get things set up so I could record what Venn wanted to say. I had no idea what would come out of his mouth. I had a general idea, but I hadn’t really been paying all that much attention, focused too much on getting us somewhere safe. Even if it wasn’t the most comfortable place in the world. I sorted it on the table and was about to click the record button when there was a precise knock at the door, I looked over my shoulder and then back at Venn, “Hold this for a second while I grab our food. I’ll tape this for now and then if you want to have it looked at properly, we can do after you eat and record what happened.” I nodded and then pushed up off the floor, groaning as my knees protested the move. When had I gotten this old? I snorted at myself and made my way to the door, checking to see who it was before opening it. While I wasn’t afraid for our lives, I did want to keep it quiet for as long as possible. I nodded to the male as he passed over the bags of food before closing the door in his face. I deposited the whole thing on the table and grabbed up the tape, yanking off a few strips so I could bend down to finish the last of the wrapping. Checking around the back and both sides to ensure there wasn’t anything twisted wrong, before gently settling the tape across the ends of the bandage, “Sleep in a shirt tonight if you can, try to stop the ends of the tape being pulled off while you sleep. That looks about as good as I’m going to get it. So now you can eat and talk, or talk and then eat. That one is your choice.” I clicked the record button and spoke into the machine, introducing myself and Venn as well as the date and time. I then clicked the pause button and lifted my gaze to meet Venn’s, “When you’re ready, tell me to click record or you can do it yourself. No rush, but if you could try and keep things in some kind or order, that would be great. But if you suddenly remember something, just let me know when it happened and then carry on from where you were before. We can use this to write up a report, and yes, I will ensure you get a copy and I keep one with the evidence I have on you that’s out of the normal channels. Ready any time you are.”
Venn: {I arched a brow at the detective and shook my head, motioning with my hand for him to keep going. A hospital would ask questions, he’d have to give information, a trail for people to follow. It was almost tempting, but then I remembered that if that trail had the wrong person following, I’d likely end up in worse shape than I was in. I flashed a tired grin at the man} No need for a hospital, I’ll be fine with some rest, maybe some ibuprofen? A hospital will just leave a trail and since you have your phone of f so we can’t be tracked, I’m guessing you won’t want any other trails either.
{I jumped at the knock and then held the wrap as ordered and let out my own huff after he had turned away. I took the minor distraction as an opportunity to calm the flames his touch was igniting and to calm my mind that every noise wasn’t going to be someone to finish the job started at the jail. I’d never been skittish and damn sure didn’t want to start that shit now. I blamed it on the detective and how he was throwing me off balance. I counted to ten in my head and eyed the detective as he came back with the food, once he settled the tape into place and moved back to his seat, I sat back and eyed the food and the machine. I pulled out a soda and slid a bag closer so I could start to pick at one of the boxes, I was so fucking hungry suddenly that I didn’t seem to care what it was. I mumbled something about not sleeping in a damn shirt as I ate and shook my head. I’d just end up tossing and turning and doing more damage to myself. I knew how I slept. Once I had something in my gut, I lifted my eyes to the detective and wiped my fingers before hitting the record button. I kept my eyes on his so he could see the truth as I started once more with what his partner did in the interrogation room, then moved on to the little visit in the cell by S….. Picolli, that was it. The threats he made, how Cabot’s partner sent a message, and that it was bigger than this case, but he had no issues taking us both out of the picture if need be. As I wrapped up the story, my eyes narrowed at the detective as I reached out to kill the recording, my voice low} I’m not going to go back to jail, no matter what evidence you have, Detective. I will not die in there because some asshole has a hard-on for you. You have my cooperation for now, you said there was bigger fish you needed my help to catch, and I will, but I will not be going to jail so you can just get that out of your head now. Now, finish eating so we can both get some needed rest. I won’t run if you don’t give me a reason to.
Zeke: I nodded as I finished up eating my food, “I’ve got a first aid box in the car, I keep a few extra things in there, other than bandages and safety pins. I’ll grab you some painkillers after we’re finished here.” I smiled again and then brought out a pad and pen, making sure I was finished with my food before we got started. I’d have liked to have done it all in one go, but since we had all night, and who knew how much longer after that, I would give some leeway so Venn could feel he had some say. As soon as that button was pressed I listened and took notes. Trying to keep my expression neutral as I focused on the facts without getting emotionally involved. It was hard, my partner has been with me basically from the start. While he tended to push me into the actual undercover side of things, he was always the one in my ear helping me out. I’d never suspected anything like what Venn was telling me through the chain of events. But I couldn’t deny the reaction my partner had when he’d been left alone with Venn. And having spent time with him in a one of the interrogation rooms, and then again now, I could see how he’d have been riled up. But not to the point of striking out. At no point had I been driven to that. We were both far too good at our jobs for that. Unless………….I didn’t want to think about that. It was up to my superiors to decide what they saw from this. I just had to hope it got there in one piece. I’d promised to get a copy to Venn, as well as keep one for myself. So I was certain that I’d be able to get what I needed and keep it secure. But I wasn’t so sure I wanted to test the theory. Did I dare push it and try to catch my partner out. In the hopes that I could prove Venn wrong, to show that he was having an off day and wasn’t about to do anything other than support me and this case. I nodded as he finished speaking, “We’ll see about the jail. I have given you an alternative, we’ll ask the judge what they think to all this once we actually get in front of them. Until then, I’ll take what we’ve just recorded and send it to those who need it. Keep a copy for myself and you’re welcome to send whatever you need to wherever. So long as you’re ok with me watching over your shoulder if it’s somewhere you’re sending it?” I quickly uploaded the file to the computer so I could get it sent off. I sent a copy to my partner and asked him to pass it onto our chief, I then sent a copy to myself, stored it in a safe place, and then looked up at Venn, “I’m going to grab that first aid kit. You can use the computer to do whatever you need to do, but I want to see you sent it so I know you’ve not contacted anyone else, if you need to. If not, get your ass into bed so you can get some rest. I’m pretty sure tomorrow will be another busy one.” I nodded and made my way towards the door, leaving it open completely as I went to the car. Wanting to grab some painkillers for Venn as I’d promised. I felt like, I wanted him to have a good sleep. I wasn’t sure why, but it stuck in my head to make sure he wasn’t going to be in pain all night, since it was sort of my fault he was in the cell at the time.
Venn: {I sat back when I was finished, thankful I’d eaten before hand because now my stomach roiled with nervous tension. I wanted him to believe me, I needed him to understand the severity of this and the sincerity in my words. I would not go to jail. If it came to that, I’d take off and make sure no one would find me again. Not even Mr. Tenacious across from me. Did he think I deserved this because I was a criminal? Or because of my smart mouth? If so, did that make him any better than his partner? I sighed soft and sat back in the chair. I didn’t have a phone or computer at the moment, but email was out there so when the computer was slid over I typed up the email and attached the file, leaving it for the detective to see and then send. I didn’t have anything more to hide from him at this point.} I’m fully expecting that evidence to get lost on your end, but I’ll at least sleep knowing I did right by telling you. By trying to help you cover your own ass for all the good it’s gonna do me.
{I watched the detective leave the room for his kit and then used that opportunity to relax completely. I let out a low gasp as I surrendered to the pain for a moment before I pushed to my feet before he could get back. Sitting in one spot for too long, especially those damn hard chairs were doing my ribs no favors. I held the towel tight around my waist and walked over to the bed furthest from the door. Drawing the blankets back, I glanced at the door in time to watch him close the car up which meant he’d be right back so I had to hurry. I hated anyone seeing the damn pain I was in. I dropped the towel and bit my lip hard as I bent and slid onto the mattress, pulling the covers up over my otherwise naked flesh. I could tease the detective, flaunt my nakedness and all that to make him uncomfortable, but tonight I was too fucking tired and sore for any more games. I needed the pain to pass so I could get my ass back in the game.}
Zeke It didn’t take me long to grab what I needed from the pack and then make my way back to the room. Grateful that Venn was in bed and I hadn’t been forced to watch the show as he’d undressed. Not that I would have complained, but I certain would have had to look pissed off. I was worried about his ribs, but I hoped with a good sleep, and them now being wrapped up, that he’d wake up a little less sore. Though I had been in my share of fights, and usually the day after you felt worse than when it actually happened. The adrenaline from the initial fight seeing you through until you passed out. At which point everything relaxed and then set stiff, making it impossible to wake up feeling anything less than like you’d been hit by a bus in your sleep. So that was going to a fun conversation in the morning. I needed to ensure we both left the hotel before we checked in. I had no intention of putting us in danger. But I knew Venn had to speak with his lawyer, just as much as I had to speak to those higher up from me. If nothing else to let them know that both myself and Venn were alive and well. I grabbed a small glass from the bathroom and filled it with water before making my way back to the male wrapped up so I could barely make out more than his head, “Water and tablets for you. Give me five to get into bed and then i’ll get the lights turned off and we can go about trusting each other for the night.” I smiled the best I could as I put everything down on the little side table for Venn. While he was busy I got myself out of the clothes I’d changed into and folded them so I could wear them again in the morning before sliding into the second bed. The whole room was secure and I’d disabled the car, so that even if Venn escaped there was no way he was going to get anywhere fast. With a quick check, I saw that Venn had managed to take the tablets and downed half the water. With a satisfied nod I turned to flick off the lights, my sigh of contentment about all I could hear as I settled down to try and get some kind of rest before the shit started up again in the morning.
Little more than 10 minutes after I closed the door, I threw it back open again and growled, “No fucking way, he won’t go for it and why am I getting the short fucking straw?” I threw my hands up when I was given the list of reasons as to why it was my deal and why I was to do exactly as I’d been told. FUCK! I growled and shook my head, “Fine, I’ll go and deliver the good news. Just as soon as I find out how he’s doing.” I snorted and stalked off towards the cells, my eyes widening as I noted the amount of people hanging around. Some of them had been on duty, but there was also paramedics there and officers I knew damn well weren’t ever on duty this late. I slowed my steps as I got closer and then frowned when the male I’d come to see came into view. He was thrashing around hard and the officers seemed to be having real difficulty keeping him down. The needle in one of the paramedics hands hadn’t been used yet from what I could see. I stepped through the door and raised my voice, “All of you, put him down and move away from him. You with the needle, get the fuck out a minute.” I watched as they looked at me like I was mad, I shrugged a shoulder and then gestured with my hand, showing my insistence that they hurried the fuck up before I lost my patience. Only once they started letting go off the flailing limbs did I address the man himself, “Venn, It’s Detective Cabot. I’m here to help. Can you calm down for me, please?”
Venn: {The more cops who came into the cell, the more I fought. I wasn’t going to let some dirty bastard take me out just because he thought he could. Plus, I figure the more fuss I put up, the more witnesses I would have if something did happen to me. The pain in my ribs fueled me, but I knew once the adrenaline wore off it was going to hurt like a bitch. I didn’t care though. I was using every bruise and injury I got to get my case thrown out. Even when they pinned me down, I fought. Biting, head butting, anything I could to keep them from getting too much control. Then I saw the needle, bright and shiny and heading my way. I thrashed harder. I hated drugs of any kind. I didn’t like my senses dulled if I could avoid it. I cursed him and spat at him to keep him away, then I heard a voice that was growing more ingrained in my brain. The asshole responsible for putting me here to begin with. Calm down. The fucker wanted me to calm down? Was he out of his ever-loving mind with that shit? Hands let me go and I shot up into sitting, grimacing hard as my ribs protested the sudden movement, but it did nothing to tear my gaze from the detective as I stared daggers at him. My words came out in a sneer before I could stop them} How nice of you to join me, Detective. You planning on getting your shots in too? It’ll fit right in with what your asshole partner started.
{I watched the guards and everyone else milling around from the corner of my eye, refusing to break that eye contact once I had it. Apparently someone called him, but I wasn’t sure that was a good thing. I still didn’t know if this was one big good cop/bad cop bullshit. Where they setting me up thinking I’d be so grateful to him for coming to my rescue that I’d give some coerced confession? If it was, right now he was giving a good performance as someone who gave a damn. He looked pretty damn good while doing it too. Asshole. I wiped at my bloody lip with the back of my hand and groaned quietly as I tried to focus. I swung my legs over the side of the bed and grimaced again as I pushed myself to stand. I was tired of being looked down upon. I walked closer to the Detective} Here, I’ll even make it easier for you to take a swing.
Zeke: I watched as Venn stopped struggling slowly, his awareness slowly seeping into his features before he looked around the officers surrounding him, and then at me. Great. I didn’t bother smiling, I wasn’t about to bullshit the man about what was happening. And I now had my orders, orders I knew he wasn’t going to like. I had to fight not to break eye contact when Venn pushed to sitting and glared at me. I could see the pain in his movements. The fact he was watching his ribs. His face was bruised, the lip being the most obvious injury, though I was sure there was more. I could see the boot marks on his tee and the red skin around his throat. As well as the obvious marks where the officers had been holding him down. I shook my head and went to open my mouth to reply, I didn’t manage to get a word out before I was bumped into and given an update. I nodded my agreement that I’d get things moving and then turned back to Venn, my gaze settling on his once more. I frowned as the words rattled around my brain. There was no way Aiden would have done this to someone under our care. As far as I was aware there was no way Aiden would do this to anyone full stop. Despite the temper, I’d never seen him in more than a bar fight, and never one he’d started. I was lost in thought when movement caught my eye and snapped my attention back to the man who was now standing and stalking closer. He might have had a slight limp, but I didn’t drop eye contact just to appreciate the way he moved. He was confident, I’d give him that. But the fact his anger was leaking out wasn’t lost on me. I found that I have to try and get my brain to work again before I could speak. The step back that I was itching to take, a feeling I’d never had before. Instead I shook my head and then cleared my throat, tongue sliding over my bottom lip as I tried to select the words that wouldn’t send Venn on a nosedive, “We’ll talk more about this later. I want to hear what happened, and I’ll have to take a full statement. If you’ll sit back down, I need to get someone to look you over and make sure that there’s no need to take you to the hospital. Then you’ll be, um, no longer in this cell. We’re……” I winced as I tried to find a phrase that wouldn’t give anything away to the many officers still within earshot, “relocating you.” I nodded and took a step around Venn, though I stayed close, ensuring that no one else could get near him. I gestured towards the bed with one hand, my other motioning to the paramedic waiting on my signal to get himself ready for the check over. “Please, it’ll only take a few minutes to check you over and get your injuries wrapped and cleaned.”
Venn: {My patience and cooperation was pretty much nonexistent at this point so when the good detective started speaking of relocation and getting checked over, I snapped my jaw tight and glared daggers at the man. Who the hell did he think he was telling me I’d be giving him a statement, like I’d give him names so they could track my ass down again. Not while I was locked up like a damn animal. I stepped close still until I was no more than a foot away from him and pointed my finger at the assholes surrounding us, my eyes narrowing further} I will not sit down and there’s no damn way I’m letting any one take me to a damn hospital. I already know I’ll need a wrap for my ribs, they’ll try to give me something for the pain, something that will dull my senses, something that will make me more compliant for you. Well fuck that. You wanna talk, we’ll talk, Detective but not with all them assholes standing here. I’m done being the entertainment for the evening.
{My eyes may have remained on his face, but I still noticed the others fidgeting around us, waiting for me to attack him. Like I could with my ribs screaming bloody fucking murder at the moment. It was taking all I had to remain upright and breathing. That was boiled down to pure stubbornness on my part though. The initial attacker was long gone but that didn’t stop me from wondering if he’d return as soon as the coast was clear. All this over a stupid theft charge? That told me that there was a chance one of my jobs had been someone important or there was someone else pulling strings. There had to be. What the hell did Detective Tightpants get me into with this shit? Because really, it was all his fault dammit. Standing there, looking all free and shit, slight smell of beer but nothing too much that said he was out celebrating the collar. Not that I was noticing how he looked or smelled, it was proximity, that’s all. Wait…what did he say?} You say I’m being relocated. Why? Where? And why should I trust a damn thing you tell me right now? In case you hadn’t notice, your word hasn’t done me any favors.
Zeke: I narrowed my eyes at the man and listened as he got pissy while invading my personal space. It wasn’t like it was the first time someone had done this, but it was the first time my natural instinct wasn’t to shove them away. I knew he was frustrated, I knew the reasons why. He had figured he was untouchable. And now here he was, not only in a cell for the night, but also having been beaten pretty badly without being protected as he’d have expected from a police station. I had to admit I was fuming too. But no one was saying shit, and I’d been told to take him out of the place so that investigations could be worked out, and people could be spoken to quietly. I needed to get a description from Venn, his clothes to see what was on them and something to the effect of a statement telling me what had happened. None of that appeared to be on his agenda. I decided that compromise might be the best option, “My word hasn’t done you anything negatively either. I didn’t promise you shit other than you were getting a night in a cell, followed by many, many more unless you looked over my proposal with your lawyer. I want to help you, I do, but you have to help me first. Take off the shirt and pants and hand them over to Carter over there. Throw on the less than flattering replacements they have for you and then you and I can get somewhere else. At which point you’re welcome to talk as freely as you like without all these people around you watching you. But I can’t give you that until you do as I ask. I’ll even bypass the hospital, if you sign the form, and just take the stuff needed to clean up your face and wrap your ribs once we’re out of here. Either way, you’re not staying here and I need the clothes you have on. Neither of those is negotiable. So you can either do it off your own back, or you can have one of these delightful officers help you with it.” I hated to threaten, but I really did need Venn to get moving. The longer we stayed, the longer it took to figure out who was behind things It also gave whoever that was long enough to get into position to follow me when we left here and therefore stop pretty much any place being safe. I found myself meeting his gaze after speaking my mind, hoping he could see that I wasn’t only serious about my request, but also trying my best to get him out without any more pain on his part.
Venn: {I raised a brow as he tried to say this shit wasn’t his fault.} Hasn’t done me anything negative either? You mean that by keeping me here, I never should have expected not to get my ass kicked in the middle of the night? What you’re saying isn’t exactly installing any damn trust in you right now, Detective. For all I know you’ll lead me somewhere else for a beating for as good as your word is.
{I shook my head and grimaced as the pain shot a fresh wave of explosions behind my eyes. Asshole didn’t know that my lawyer had already convinced me to help, even after I’d been sprung as it would have helped my ass in the long run, but now…Now I planned on making the detective’s life a living hell. It was only fair after all. Thanks to him, my mother had to be moved, likely more than once before this was over, my bottom line was taking a hit, my reputation, and who the hell knows what else he was costing me. I leaned in closer with a wicked grin forming over my face.} If you wanted to see me naked, Detective, all you had to do was ask. {My voice dropped low enough only he could hear me as the rest of the sentence fell from my lips} I’m not real big on orders unless I’m the one giving them, Detective
{The last word dragged off slowly, almost a purr, as I stood back to my full height, or as full as I could with my body aching.} I don’t give free shows though, so if I’m changing I want privacy. I’ve already been searched, you know I don’t have any weapons or anything, so if you want me to cooperate, I’m asking for a little give and take here.
{My eyes met his with that same look of determination and seriousness he was trying to impress upon me. I knew they wouldn’t all leave, but they did manage to start turning around one by one, until only he remained watching. My brow shot up and I gave a small shrug as I peeled off the damn shirt, gasping for a breath and nearly doubling over as I dropped it to the floor, staying bent as the pants, dropped right after. I flashed him a wink as I forced myself to stand, letting him get the full damn monty before I pulled on the provided clothes. They were scratchy and cheap, reminding me of a time best forgotten. I was dressed and standing which was a miracle at this point} Happy now? Gimme the damn wrap for my ribs and whatever else so we can do whatever you need to. Know though that if anything else happens to me, your life won’t be worth living as I’ll make sure to destroy you any way I can.
{There was no heat behind my words at the moment, no matter how I meant them. My fight was leaving me and I was tired of it all}
Zeke I narrowed my eyes at the man in front of me and held my tongue, letting him vent. I was about to growl out an angry reply when the wink stopped me short. Mouth hanging open, I arched a brow and then shook my head. I wasn’t going to rise to this, that’s what he wanted. And while i couldn’t pretend I wasn’t affected, I wasn’t going to let him know that. He was trying to push my buttons and I could see the smirks from the other officers who knew that if he wasn’t a suspect I’d have happily called his bluff just to shut him up. Instead I stood and watched as he changed, ensuring that we got everything we needed bagged up before I nodded, “Very happy. Sign that form while I grab the bandage. You need to say that you’re leaving, though it won’t say where. I’ll get that part sorted once I am out of here.” I tipped my head and gestured for one of the paramedics to come forward, quickly talking to him to ensure that from what he’d seen there was no longer lasting injuries. He assured me there wasn’t that he could see, but if I was going to be with him, I had to keep an eye on him. I had a piece of paper shoved at me that showed me, with explanations, all the things I should be looking out for and which ones were an immediate trip to hospital. I nodded along with my understanding before taking the bottle of painkillers and the bandage, promising I’d get to it as soon as we were safe somewhere. After I was done with the paramedic I turned back around to the office who had taken all of Venn’s clothes, “Process that. You, no one else, is to stay with the clothes until they have been checked over and the results are in. I don’t care how annoyed they get, ensure you follow those clothes as closely as you can do.” I waited until the officer had nodded his understanding and moved away before turning my attention to the less than impressed looking Venn. He looked tired, like he’d drop at any minute. I needed to get him somewhere safe so he could start to regain his strength, he’d need it for court and whatever other shit storm he’d accidentally stumbled into. “Venn, you need to come with me.” I stepped up and pulled his hands in front of him gently, aware of his ribs, but knowing there was no way I was going to be allowed to walk him out of here minus the cuffs. “Sorry, formality, they’ll be off soon enough. Think you’re strong enough to carry a coat over them, or are you good with people seeing where we’re going?” I nodded towards the entrance to the cell and then started walking. Ensuring I had a coat for when we got out of the precinct, but not letting him linger anywhere. I needed to get out of here now protocol had been taken care of. I’d been given my instructions, and while I was sure Venn wouldn’t be happy about it at all. I hadn’t been left with a choice. I pulled open the door to my car and then waited while Venn caught up, gesturing for him to get in while keeping an eye on the surrounding area. I couldn’t allow our location to get out, so I had to do this fast and hopefully, I’d have Venn’s cooperation.
Venn: {I bit my tongue through the questioning and processing, answering only when I absolutely had to. Even on the car ride, I stayed silent and simply studied the detective. He tried a few times to initiate a conversation, but I was too damn exhausted to function let alone uphold a coherent conversation. We ended up at some rundown hotel, a temporary holding for the night until other accommodations were made he’d said. But I was so tired that I didn’t care where we were and I crashed out almost as soon as I saw the bed, shoes on and all. When I woke up, the detective was sitting at the small table, hunched over a stack of paperwork. I was willing to bet if he slept, it was minimal, likely too worried about me bolting to get some real rest. Not that I blamed him. He hadn’t gotten the chance to really explain this deal or what he needed from me and I had no assurances about my safety just as he had none that would guarantee I’d stay put. Had I had more energy, there is a good chance I would have tried to escape last night, but as it was I needed sleep and I apparently had felt safe enough in his care to do so. That spoke volumes about how damn tired I really was. I stayed as quiet as I could while falling slightly to get a better view of him. The faint light filtering in through the curtains enhanced the dark shadows under his eyes and made his eyes seem darker, more mysterious. Damn do I wish that meeting could have gone differently...}
Zeke: Once I’d pushed us forcibly through the web of corridors to the car, and then driven like I was on some kind of race again time, we arrived at the crappiest hotel I could find. One room, one bed and as soon as we’d walked in Venn has sprawled across it like he owned the place. Not that I blamed him, he’d not exactly had the best stay in the cell, and I didn’t know how much rest he’d had in the days running up to our meet. I left him on the bed and ensured the door was locked and I could set up at the table with the chair facing the door. That was I was able to see both Venn on the bed and any threats that may come through the door. I wasn’t really expecting any, but I wasn’t going to push my luck and let down my guard. I managed make it through the bathroom, throwing cold water over my face to try and get my brain to wake back up. Then I sat my ass in the chair and tried my best to get comfortable. I had the file with me that I needed to read through, as well as my phone. Though I had to be careful with that, since I knew that it could be traced. I kept my voice down and called through a few of my contacts, having polite and pretty meaningless chats with them about their lives and what they thought of their jobs or families or any other mundane thing I could think of. I squeezed in a chat about what I needed along the way, and then waited for the details to be forwarded back to me. It didn’t take more than a couple of hours to fix it all up so we’d have a safe place to stay. I hadn’t been settled long when there was movement on the bed out the corner of my eye. I figured the male would be up like a firework the second he woke up. So I waited to see what happened, and when he stayed quiet, I went back to reading through the files I’d brought with me, tapping on my phone every now and again to ensure I was happy with the random messages I’d been getting. I waited another ten minutes or so before tipping my head towards the male on the bed, wincing slightly at what I was about to do, “Sorry about this one, but I can’t take any chances.” I practically whispered before taking out two pairs of cuffs and making my way towards the bed, the clinking of metal the only noise that I was making. I needed to secure the man to the bed so I could piss and shower. I’d even offer him the same courtesy should he wish, after I was through. I circled around the edge of the bed and snapped the cuff onto one of his wrists before making my way to the bed frame to secure it to the metal headboard, “I really am sorry, but I feel horrible. I’m sure you do too. And I’m not wanting to chase you down the street when you get any ideas in your head about escaping.”
Venn: {I knew the moment he realized I was awake, but I wasn’t really in the mood for conversation just yet. I’d been beaten and moved about and needed a good pot of coffee to get things functioning. Besides, I wanted to be as passive as possible for the moment. Give me a better sense of the man under the badge. Different circumstances I felt things could have been quite interesting with him. When he turned towards me and I saw that wince, I knew I wasn’t going to like what he was doing. The cuffs he produced confirmed that fact. Nope. I was definitely not going to like what he was doing. I couldn’t wait until I was healed. Then we’d see how those cuffs really played out. My senses were still dulled and my head was in a complete fog from whatever the EMT had given me before I was released which allowed him to one cuff locked around my wrist but I fought him to keep it from connecting to the bed frame. I jerked my arm hard and used all my energy to flip off the opposite side of the bed, holding my cuffed hand before me as I backed towards the wall opposite the door. I had to fight the urge to double over in pain as my ribs screamed at me. My breath came out ragged as I narrowed my eyes at the asshole.} Fuck you. You want my cooperation, you’re gonna have to trust me. Besides, thanks to YOUR people, I’m in no shape to be running anywhere at the moment. Or have you forgotten the beating I got? Would you like to see the bruises again so you can go get your rocks off to them in the bathroom? Maybe this whole things a set up and the moment you cuff me you’ll let your buddy in to finish the job he started.
{I kept my eyes on him as I pulled the thin piece of metal from my pocket and began working it in the cuff lock, smirking at the man as I worked the lock until I heard the little click. I held the cuffs in my hands and kept my eyes on the detective. I didn’t move, but damn did I want to with the thoughts that were starting to form in my head. I shouldn’t be a dick because he had been mostly decent through it all, but I was feeling the need to let him know I was done being pushed around.} Hotel beds are amazing little pieces of work, little finagling and you never know what you’ll find. I think next time though, these little silver bracelets will be wrapped on your wrists instead. Cuff you to the bed or to the chair, get a few hits in, or maybe I’ll take a different path to get you talking.
Zeke: I stepped backwards slightly, even though it was obvious Venn was going in the opposite direction to me. I almost stepped forwards to try and catch that lost cuff. But before I could I noted the pain on his face and realised that while he might have slept deeply for the last few hours, he was still injured. He’d taken a hell of a beating and it was something that I needed to be aware of, and deal with. I figured that moving around the bed wouldn’t do me any good and would likely end up with us both being in pain and injured. I shook my head instead and slowly put the other pair of cuffs on the bed, stepping back and trying not to be in any way threatening. I needed this male to trust me, or as much as he could. So far I’d not done much to garner that, so I needed to be careful. I found myself spluttering and then shaking my head with genuine emotion as I flicked my eyes up to meet the man still standing across the room from me, “No one knows where we are. That’s the point. It’s why I pulled you out so fast, and why I’ve been working while you slept to work out where we’d be next. Until we work this out. Someone wants you for……………….something. So we’ll figure it out. But you have to settle down.” I nodded and then ducked my chin to hide the reaction of the suggestion that the cuffs would be used on me. Nope, not going there. I needed to protect the man, not imagine what could happen if I were to let my guard down. And certainly not to think on where that would go if I was cuffed to any number of those places, beating or not. Instead I took a slow breath and then moved to the end of the bed and licked my bottom lip before speaking, “I need a shower, and I’d really rather know you were safe. I know your reputation, I’ve been chasing you for over 2 years now. Hurt or not, I know if you wanted to, you could escape without issue without me watching you. I don’t have the tracker for you just yet, since we left in such a hurry. So I have limited options.” I swept a hand around the room and then exhaled harshly, trying to work out what I could suggest without getting sucker punched, “So, options are I trust you, and if that goes tits up I lose my job, and probably end up with a hell of a lot of other shit being thrown at me too. I search you and cuff one hand somewhere with the hope there’s nothing in reach that would allow you to get out. I search you and cuff you in the bathroom where I can keep an eye on you and know that if you try to get loose, I can be close enough to deal with that.” I shrugged a shoulder and then moved to pick up the second set of cuffs again, “I’m happy to just cuff you with one hand if that’s easier on your ribs, which I should really check again to ensure they’re wrapped properly. The rest is up to you. What did you want?”
Venn: {I flicked my eyes from the cuffs on the bed to the detective as he backed away rather than charging at me. That gave me a slight bit of confidence he really wasn’t out to hurt me, unless he was fucking with me. If that were the case, well then I guess we’d see where things feel at that point. Right now I had to focus on remaining upright and not giving into the feeling of nausea that was threatening from the pain I was feeling. I raised a brow at his words. Not that I doubted that was what he believed. I could already tell that he’d gotten no sleep and all that. I knew this wasn’t our permanent location but I wasn’t sure I bought no one knowing where we were. He had to have back up somewhere, somewhere close even.} Does your partner know? Because despite what you wanna believe, he’ll not hesitate to throw us both under the bus at this point. Damned if I know why though. He’s hellbent on ruining you and using me to do it.
{I couldn’t help but grin as he ducked his head when my threat of cuffing him settled in. That image did dangerous things to me though and I had to remain on task or risk my damn life if I gave my trust to the wrong person. Still, that didn’t stop my gaze from following the path of his tongue along his lips though. My grin widened as he mentioned how long he’d been chasing me. I still wasn’t sure how he’d caught me this time other than sure luck on his part, but two years was a hell of an accomplishment. I groaned at my options until that final one hit my gray matter. All sense of self-preservation flew out the damn window as I let that image settle in. I lifted my eyes to lock onto his and grinned wide as I swung the cuff on my finger.} Why Detective, I do believe option three sounds like a winner to me. Though if we can avoid the cuffs until my ribs heal, I’d appreciate it. You’re still more than welcome to search me beforehand if you’d like.
{I flashed him a wink as I held my ribs with my other hand} And if you’d not mind checking my wrapping after you’re done, I’d more than appreciate that one.
Zeke: I blinked a few times, my brain telling me that of course I was sleep deprived and that he wasn’t at all saying what I thought he was saying. Why did I even offer that up. Mainly because I was confident he’d never choose it. Prisoners never did. Had I been in the same situation I’d have chosen the room, then found a way to get out and escape. In the bathroom with me, no way was he getting free. I’d notice that within seconds, if not less. Fuck! I dragged my teeth over my bottom lip as I growled softly while shaking my head, trying to remember what I had to answer before sorting out this shitstorm. “No, he doesn’t know. No one knows. I told you. My chief knows that I needed to get you out. Otherwise they don’t know where, when or how. I don’t know what to believe about him, but something went down. And as soon as I’m clean and feeling a little more awake, I’ll be happy to sit down and take a statement of what you heard and what was said.” I nodded and then walked around the bed to stand in front of the man, “Shoes off, belt off and down to just your tee. I’ll then pat you down before you come into the bathroom with me. I’m not taking any chances of you having something to injure me with or escape. I can’t promise no cuffs for tonight, but I’ll ensure they’re not pulling your ribs or causing any other injuries. It’s a precaution. But one I need right now.” I nodded and without thinking bent to tug at the laces of the boots that he was wearing. Figuring that he’d be unwilling to do it himself with the stress to his ribs. The rest he’d be able to do without really hurting himself, but bending down to untie shoelaces or take off his boots, that would probably be an instant no. And I wasn’t taking no for an answer. If his choice was the bathroom, then he was getting that shit off him asap. “Get the rest sorted while I start the shower and grab a towel. I’ll be back in a second.” I stood and narrowed my eyes for a minute as I watched him. He’d have time to make it to the door while I was in the bathroom. But I was going to try and trust him, thought it wasn’t easy. I inhaled hard and then nodded once, convincing my feet to move. I turned my back on the man and made my way into the small bathroom WIth the lid down I figured I could sit him on the toilet while cuffed to the pipe under the sink. It wouldn’t hold him if he was serious about getting out, but it should alert me to any movement he might make or any escape he’d try. Once I was happy with that, I got the mat on the ground and started up the shower in the tiny cubicle. I grabbed a towel on my way out and placed it on the sink before starting out of the bathroom to see whether Venn was ready to cooperate.
Venn: {It was fun watching as my response sink into his head. I was pretty sure he’d not expected my response just like he probably never meant to throw out the offer to begin with. I knew damn well I was in no shape to run anywhere just yet, so if I could avoid the damn cuffs and the fuss at the moment, I was going to. Plus…seeing how he was going to handle being wet and naked with me in the room was all kinds of worth it. My gaze fell to that well bitten lip as his teeth ran over the skin again, it was a sexy as hell nervous tick on him and the more I saw it, the more encouraged I was to see it again. I raised a brow as he told me we were essentially off of everyone’s radar and found myself letting out a low breath. I’d trust him for now as I had no other choice, but if he betrayed me, I would find a way to make him pay.} I’ll tell you exactly what happened but it won’t make a damn difference unless you can find a reason to believe me. If you don’t, we’re both just wasting our time, Detective.
{I waited until he undid my laces before kicking off my boots, my grin widening as he stood once more. If I wasn’t so damn sore, and the situation were different, this would be the start of a very interesting evening. I snorted when he mentioned not taking any chances with me. I fought when I had to, but that was it. Not that he’d believe me after earlier though. I had to bite my tongue as he gave orders though, it was not something I handled very well on the best of days.} Have you ever heard that expression you’ll get more flies with honey?
{I waited until his back was turned before I undid my slacks and kicked them off and started to take off the shirt I had on before damn near doubling over at the pain. I was bare from the waist down and fighting to pull the damn shirt over my head. Listening carefully to his movements, I tried to free myself before he returned. But with the way my ribs were protesting, it was a lost cause. Sucking in my pride, I let out a low breath and tugged the shirt back from covering my face when I heard the water. I kept my gaze trained on the bathroom door for him and called out loud enough to be heard.} Detective, I managed the pants, but if you want my shirt off, you’ll need to get over here and help me since I seem to be having issues.
Zeke: I shook my head on my way out the door, stopping dead in my tracks at the sight. Venn had his tee around his shoulders and otherwise nothing. Not what I’d asked. Though I couldn’t deny that the sight wasn’t one I’d complain about, internally anyway. Externally I was going to be professional, mostly, even if it killed me. “Belt and boots. That’s all I expected you to take off. And when did I tell you to take off your shirt? With your ribs I’m surprised you managed your pants. Can you put something back on?” I shook my head again and then got busy to ensure I didn’t linger too long on the male. He was more trouble than he was worth right now, and I just wanted this night to be done with so I could get him back to the cell and into the hands of someone else. I made a show of checking the door to ensure it was locked while trying to get my head into the mindspace I used when I was undercover. It was easier to not be myself right now. Stay professional, in control and without the embarrassment of whatever reactions came from seeing this half naked man in front of me. Once I was sure the place was secure I picked up the cuffs I’d discarded earlier and pointed at the bathroom, “Since you’re so ready to party, get in there and sit somewhere you’ll be comfortable for the next ten minutes or so. And if you can’t handle putting on pants again, throw a towel over the important bits. I guess I should just be glad you’re not about to run anywhere with your junk hanging out.” I gave a less than convincing smile as I checked the room over again, assuming Venn was doing as I’d asked, “I’m just going to grab my shit from the car. Get moving.” I grumbled at myself as I unlocked the door I’d just double checked and then ducked out to the car. Thankfully it wasn’t all that far from the room, and with the door wide open, I still had a clear view of the room. Not that I expected Venn to run, with his ribs as they were, he’d struggle to run more than a couple of feet before the pain got too much. I grabbed the bag I always kept in the boot and ran back inside quickly, the lights and beep from the car locking about the only thing happening in the otherwise silent hotel. I quickly pushed the door closed and locked it again before making my way to the bed. I threw a few clean clothes out of the bag and dug down until I found my wash bag. With a satisfied nod I turned to check the bathroom, my sigh heavy as I made my way towards the inevitable fight I was sure was brewing. Venn was being cuffed to something whether he liked it or not. No way was I trusting him just yet. I hadn’t earned that from him, and he’d certainly not earned it from me.
Venn: {I let out a snicker before covering with a cough as the detective bitched about my clothing, or lack of. I was still fighting the damn tee and the pain that shot through me as I glared at him over the fabric} You said, and I quote ‘down to just your tee’ Detective, I was simply following orders like a good little prisoner. No sense wearing a shirt with nothing else. Plus I figure if I’m naked, you know I’m not running anywhere and I don’t need the fucking cuffs so that maybe I can go five minutes without hurting myself. I think you got a good twenty four hours before I can move without wanting to double over at least, then we can discuss the cuffs. I think we need to start working on that trust thing, so I want some answers as to why I’m here and why your partner wants to shut my ass up and what you need me for.
{Asshole was already heading out the door before I finished speaking, my arms still all tied up in the fucking teeshirt. Brutality, this was more fucking brutality. I shuffled to the bathroom, using the doorframe and counter space for leverage as I finally worked the damn tee over my head. I took a quick piss and washed my hands before slamming down the lid and dropping a towel over the cold ass plastic, then took my seat, dropping my tee in my lap while I waited for detective dickhead to come back. I heard the door open and felt every muscle tense in my body. I was trapped and damn tired of being treated like I was the dangerous one. If he came at me with the cuffs again, I was going to show them the proper way they were to be used. I kept my eyes trained on the door, pinning him with anger as he came into view, along with those fucking cuffs} That ain’t happening, Detective. If you can’t trust me to sit here, you might as well take my ass back to jail because I won’t be talking to you or anyone else. You try to put them on me and it’ll be the end of any cooperation between us when it comes to this case.
Zeke: I narrowed my eyes the minute he came into view. That mouth firing off as soon as he saw me. Or more correctly, as soon as he saw the cuffs. I didn’t bother replying at first, instead moving back out into the room to lock my gun away so I was sure it couldn’t be used against me. Though if he wanted to he could probably break in, he was a world renowned thief after all. I only had to hope that he’d have to take time to do that, and I’d have figured out he’d moved and come after him before he managed to actually get into the safe. I kept a knife on me though, I didn’t give a shit about it getting wet, and while I knew I could take the guy in a fair fight even on his best day, I wasn’t taking any chances. Once he was in eyeshot once more, sitting where he’d been the entire time I’d been faffing around, I stopped in the doorway to speak with him. I’d sympathised when we’d picked him up at first. He wasn’t someone who fitting into a box, and certainly not someone who we would normally pick up to hold. The fact that things had gone to shit in the cells wasn’t his fault either. But I’d been working to fix that meeting with him for the best part of a week, and showers were few and far between when I had to make things move quickly. It involved a lot of meets and quick changes. I was not going to let his petulant behaviour deter me from having a damn shower, and fucking well enjoying it. I exhaled hard and nodded, he was right though. No way would he manage any kind of escape as he was. He’d been worked over very well by whoever had hit that cell with him. I was still waiting on the security footage, if there was any to be found. But I’d get a full statement from Venn come the morning. The threat of finishing the communication between the two of us wasn’t something I could risk. Especially with the reaction of my partner when faced with him one on one. And now getting the shit kicked out of him. I growled and tugged at my tee, hoping most of the battle scars weren’t obvious in the ridiculous lighting of the bathroom. I loved my job, but it took a toll on my body when I got on the wrong side of the wrong people. I wasn’t shy though, which made it easier to basically strip in front of the man. It wasn’t like he was making it easy, sitting there without flinching. I had to wonder where the hell he got so much confidence and why I didn’t feel like I was entirely in charge of the situation. It was probably why I wanted the cuffs. Stop myself feeling so off balance on a case I should feel like I held all the cards. “Fine. No cuffs. I need your cooperation, and after we both try and get some sleep I’ll speak to my boss and see what the updates are from today. Then we can go from there. I’ll take your statement first thing in the morning. Unless you feel that now would be better? Since I don’t want you missing anything out. I know they spoke to you while they were patching you up before I got there, but I am going to ask you to go through it again with me. I’m still armed, so don’t try anything. I want to keep you alive and breathing. I’ll wrap your ribs once I’m clean. It’s been a week since I’ve had a proper shower with chasing your ass down to get that meeting. You’re not at all easy to get a face to face with.” I shrugged a shoulder as I spoke. Trying to ease the topic away from the cuffs, the beating and the fact that he was currently here purely so we could keep him safe enough to lock up. Not that the face to face was the way to go about it, but it was at least a start. I wasn’t about to start in on personal shit. I dropped my shirt outside the bathroom and quickly left the rest of my clothing there too. I had fresh stuff on the table, barely two steps away from the bathroom so I could quickly change once I was clean. I almost groaned at that thought. I could almost taste the water. How easily I was pleased after just a few days without the simple pleasures of a shower. “Stay put and the cuffs will stay outside this room, ok?” I narrowed my eyes as I walked past Venn and cranked the water lever on so it could start to warm up.
Venn: {I kept my eyes glued on the detective as my words sunk in. I’d been through enough shit, hadn’t fought to get away. I wasn’t stupid enough to run and give them more reasons to try to hold me with their bullshit charges. Let my fucking lawyer earn his damn retainer and get me off clean. That would be more of a fuck you to the detective over anything else. But if he wanted to be a cock swinger to put me in my place I’d have no issues taking my stand. He must have seen I was serious he ducked back out with out a word. I heard the safe and snorted to myself. Hotel safe’s were child’s play. The detective had to know that. Was that his slight showing of trust. Something that was supposed to put my mind at ease? If anything it told me he had enough confidence in his other skills that a bullet wasn’t necessary. Based on the solid muscles I’d glimpsed beneath his shirt, I didn’t doubt that one. I didn’t move from my spot. Stubbornness was a trait I’d long possessed. So when he popped back in to view, I simply raised a brow at him as he started removing clothes. My suspicions of him being solid were confirmed as the shirt came off, revealing ink and hard lines and more than a few faded scars that showed me he wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty in the line of duty.} Take your shower detective, maybe I’ll talk tonight, maybe I won’t. Either way, you do what you need to do. I doubt the beating will be leaving my mind any time soon. After all, I’ll need to document it for my own case, won’t I?
{My grin was full of mirth when I lifted my gaze back to his. The beating definitely gave me leverage, yet it still hadn’t stopped me agreeing to help him. He just didn’t need to know it yet. I was curious why his partner had such a hard on over him and in turn over me and I knew I’d not be able to figure that out on my own. But I didn’t mind letting the good detective sweat it over a bit. I let my eyes run appreciatively over his body once he was stripped clean save for the knife he apparently planned to shower with. The things I would do to him in different circumstances. Apparently my cock agreed and I was forced to adjust the teeshirt in my lap to disguise that one.} Told you I wasn’t going anywhere, besides, why would I want to miss out on a free show?
Zeke: I turned while I waited on the shower to warm up, my gaze landing on and holding the man currently clutching his shirt. I refused to let my eyes drop lower than his face, if I did that there was no way he’d not see, and no way he’d not say something about it. While he could try to make me uncomfortable, I was not in such a fortunate position. Sure I could cuff him, or get all up in his space to try and intimidate him. But I needed him to actually speak to me, in some way trust me. For tonight and for however long this trial went on for. I’d have contact with him throughout, and I didn’t want to fuck him over or fabricate anything. I had more than enough evidence squirrelled away to nail him to a wall for a good few years. However, if I was to do something that was interpreted as inappropriate, there was little I could do but watch a large proportion of my case flush down the shitter. I might still have evidence, and technically be in the right about what he’d done. But I’d have lost the judge, the jury and probably my backing from my chief. If I hadn’t done anything and he lied, I could swing that. If I actually cross a line, then I’d have to own up, it was just the kind of person I was. And so I kept my eyes focused, even when I saw his own slowly move over my body. It felt like he’d left a trail of fire in it’s wake. I gritted my teeth to stem the shiver from actually showing. When the steam started to sneak out from behind the glass square of the shower I exhaled slowly. “This free show is about to have a no incident shower, hopefully with enough time to relax a little. Did you also want to use the shower after I do, or are your ribs too sore?” I spun the knife in my hand and then placed it inside the cubicle, within easy reach, but far enough out of the way that I’d not knock it around while I was washing myself. I tugged the glass door shut behind me and slowly stepped under the warm spray, practically groaning at the feel of the heat as it pummeled against my muscles. My voice raised to be heard over the water, “If you want to document everything tonight, you can. We can always re-evaluate it tomorrow in case you missed something or remember something else over night. It’s not exactly like protocol is being kept to 100%. So long as I get the facts down and you’re happy with the account, I’ll sign to say it’s all correct.” I nodded to myself, giving a quick look through the glass to ensure that he was still sitting where I’d left him. Satisfied, I started to lather up the soap so I could give myself a proper wash, far more pleased than I should have been about such a simple act.
Venn: {I lifted my eyes back to his, wondering idly if he saw the heat in them that I was almost positive was very evident. Damn. I really wish I had met him one night later, after I had taken care of some things. Especially as it didn’t seem I’d be getting a break any time soon. A slow grin formed on my face as I noticed his jaw tightening, it was fun toying with him. At the end of the day, I may be a thief, but I wasn’t a bad guy. Retrieving stolen goods for others was what I was good at, and no one else seemed willing to help. The quicker I helped the detective, the sooner I could work out my own deal and get back out there. I held up my hands, leaving the tee in my lap} Please, don’t let me stop you from enjoying your shower, Detective. I would actually like to get in there too, when you’re done, of course. Besides if we’re spending time together, it’d be better if we didn’t stink up the place.
{My grin grew lecherous at the thought and again I cursed the fates for the way we were brought together. My gaze followed him right into that steamy water and I let out a low groan I’d been holding in once he was sealed off inside, hoping the water would drown it out. I watched as well as I could through the steaming spray, I wasn’t going to miss out on the show, no matter how innocent it might be.} I don’t mind telling you what happened, get it down on paper or whatnot so you can do with it what you need to. My lawyer’s going to be wanting some information too so you’re likely gonna need to tell me what your plan is here before he gets all threatening down at the station.
{I shrugged a shoulder lightly, careful of the damn ribs. Looking down I saw the molted skin and even the outline of heavy soled boots imprinted there. I know they took pictures before we left, but actually seeing it now, I could see how lucky I was to make it out of there still walking. All because, what, Cabot was the better of the two partners? There was more to it, but I wasn’t sure I wanted to find out what that was. Not my circus…or at least it wasn’t until I got my ass kicked. I shifted on the toilet and turned my attention back to the wet and naked man in the shower, knowing at this rate I would need the shower quite cold to deal with things}
Zeke: The water felt amazing as I slowly worked the soap into a lather. Far more soap than I strictly needed, but it just felt so good to be clean, I wasn’t going to get out a second sooner than I needed. Venn could just get a numb ass waiting for me. Though, he had been through quite a bit already, and was probably feeling the pain of his ribs. The last thing I wanted was him to suffer any more. Fucking brain. It wasn’t meant to give me any kind of soft side. I needed to keep professional. I’d just have to tell myself that it was ensuring my witness was healthy and as happy as he could be. Since he was in a lot of pain, was probably hungry and sleep deprived. I made a mental note to ask whether he needed food, then figured I better ask while I remembered. I popped the door and leaned out to get a clear view of Venn, “Before I forget, are you in any way hungry? I can get a take out delivered if you want? I wasn’t sure if you managed to get through all the paperwork before dinner was finished at the station?” I left the door ajar as I carried on talking while getting the last of the soap off my skin, “And I’ll let you know what’s happening as soon as I know. So far all I have is tonight and then tomorrow morning sorted. Past that, you’re guess is as good as mine right now. You’re welcome to inform your lawyer of what is happening, but I can’t have you tell him where we are, we need to stay where only you and I know where we are. I have the paperwork if you don’t have the number memorised, but we’ll be phoning in the morning from a phone away from the hotel.” I nodded to myself before lathering up the shampoo in my hair, rinsing and then stepping out of the cubicle. The water easing to an annoying drip while I wrapped the towel around my hips. I turned again to face Venn and smiled slightly, “I’ll get you a towel if you want to get in the shower. I’ll find a wrap while you’re busy in there. I’ve probably got a spare t shirt as well if you wanted some clean clothes? I can’t do much about your jeans, but they don’t appear to be too badly fucked up. Should give you something to wear until bed and then tomorrow when we check in to find out what we’re doing. I can trust you until then at the very least, so we can both get some sleep?” I asked with hesitation clear in my voice, even though I tried to hide it. He had no reason to lie, but then again, he was good at sneaking around. Moving without being heard and getting in and out of places he shouldn’t be. So if I trusted him, I hoped he realised what a huge thing that was.
Venn: {I tipped my head slightly to try to catch the view through the door rather than the steam, but I couldn’t lean that far. Not without either being super obvious or hurting myself in the process. Instead I sat back again and shifted once more as I thought about the offer. I hadn’t thought about food since the arrest. It hadn’t been a priority and I often skipped meals while on the job, but the moment Detective Asshole mentioned food my stomach let out a loud growl that I would be surprised if he hadn’t heard over the water. Nodding more to myself since he couldn’t see me} I’m a cheap date, Detective, but I won’t turn down a bite to eat. Room service or take out from somewhere unhealthy, preferably.
{I rolled my eyes as he went on about staying in this situation for who the fuck knows how long. I was already twitching under my skin at the confinement. I closed my eyes for a moment and did some mental calculations. I’d already spent more time in this damn town in a stretch than I had anywhere else for who the hell knows how long. Now I was stuck, at least until I figured a way out of this situation. The detective swore he had evidence, but with the circumstances….no, I had bargaining power now. I lifted my eyes to the detective once he stepped out, my eyes carving a hot path along his tattooed chest as I watched the rivulets of water. } Tomorrow at the latest, otherwise he’ll be sending out the dogs and if this is all covert, you won’t want that.
{I groaned loudly as I tried to push up from the toilet. My legs didn’t want to work so it took several attempts before I could stand fully, the tee still held in front of my groin. I nodded and then shook my head slowly, both motions making my brain swish like soup. Or at least it was feeling that way. Tired, hungry, sore. All of that just made me resign myself to my fate for the moment and if the detective was half as good at his job as he said he was, he’d see just how done with it all I was.} Towel yes, please. I’ll sleep under the covers to preserve your delicate sensibilities, then toss my jeans on in the morning. If you can grab a robe or something I can wear while we talk, that’s all I’ll need. I’m beat so after the shower and some food, we can talk while we eat and save time that way, I’ll likely pass out until the roosters crow.
Zeke: I tipped my head as I watched Venn try to stand. I wanted to help, the detective in me was all about the whole protect part. But I wasn’t sure if I would be welcome to get him to his feet. So instead I carried on into the main room and left him to it. I could hear him though. Still see his gaze as it tracked the water that was dripping from my hair, down my chest and into the towel that was secured around my hips. That look was not one I should want to see again. Nor is it something I should think on further, what might happen if he was to actually touch me. Nope, that was off limits. He would be processed and then we’d see what happens. But whatever that was, jail or the proposition I’d left with him, he’d be under my protection. Or out of my reach. Both put him off limits. I was good at following the rules, mostly. I bent them on occasion, I had to in my job. It involved a lot of disappearing, getting to know people while playing a role so I could gather information. I had no one who was special in my life, so I was about as perfect as you got for this kind of work. I could be whoever, and say and do whatever, it took to get the job done. Mostly the males and females I interacted with had a type, and I fit it for the most part. From the cocky personality I could take on when I needed to, down to the height, build and tattoos. The females seemed to go crazy for those. Though I’d had my fair share of men lick their way along them as well. Shame most I had to knock out before they got much further. Sometimes though, sometimes even I couldn’t say no and had happily gone through with whatever. I wasn’t dead after all. In this case though, I had the information I needed and I just needed Venn to cooperate. Once he’d done that, and was happy to help me as and when I needed it, at that point I could get him sorted with a monitor and we’d start out slow for him. If he agreed. Otherwise he was off to prison for a fucking long ass time. I snorted to myself and shook my head, “Get in the shower, I’ll phone through for food and then I’ll wrap your ribs before you settle in to eat. Keep you from hurting them more in your sleep.” I picked up the phone in the hotel room and gave my order to the front desk. They assured it me it shouldn't be longer than 25 minutes, and I thanked them before asking for the money to be added to my bill as I didn’t have cash on me. They were more than happy to oblige before I turned and started to get dressed. I pulled on my jeans and then started to clear the table that we’d have to eat at. I’d managed to dump pretty much everything I had with me on top of it. I made small trips to the bathroom to check on Venn between moving things to different spots around the room. One trip I threw my wet towel across the top of the door and dropped a dry one on the sink for when he was done. Once I was happy, I grabbed the strapping I’d been given and sat down to wait for Venn to finish up.
Venn: {The detective barely vacated the room before I was gingerly stepping into the small glass cubicle. I let out a damn near sinful moan as the warm water sluiced over my battered and beaten skin. For a moment, I managed to forget all about he damned detective and he situation he got me into.And yeah, I knew what I was but it was his fault I was here, not mine. If cops did their damn job to begin with, most wouldn’t need my services anyway. I growled in frustration as my thoughts went back to the asshole and I forced them away, focusing once more on the water beating down on me. I grabbed the little bottle of shampoo and lathered up my hair before I grabbed the minuscule bar of soap and began to wash myself as well as I could. The water helped some of the aches, but there were others that no amount of hot water could ease. Those would simply take time. Time I would use to learn what I could. As this was the first time I’d been alone since that ill-fated meet, I leaned against the wall and simply let the water crash over me when I was done washing myself. I kept creeping the water hotter and hotter every time it cooled until it was maxed out and then just let it soak through me. I could hear the detective moving around in the other room but it was nice that he left me alone. He was probably no more thrilled to be here with me than I was with him. Though likely for different reasons I’m sure. I was merely a job to him, a pawn to help he accomplish what he needed. For me, he was now a thorn in my side. I wanted to hate him, to let all my anger pour into that hatred, but that was just me protecting myself from my own fucking mind. I always did want shit that was bad for me and he was definitely bad for me. I wanted to use my anger in other ways with him. Ways that would make me feel all kinds of better. That wasn’t going to happen. I groaned and glanced down before flicking the faucet all the way the other way until my skin pebbled into goose bumps and a chill worked itself down to my bones. Even then it took a while for my dick to get the hint that nothing was going to happen. Finally feeling a little in control of myself, I flicked the water off and stepped out, grabbing the towel he left on the sink for me and drying off as best as I could. My legs and back dripped but there wasn’t much I could do about it as I wrapped the towel around my waist. I was glad the mirror was fogged, I didn’t have any interest in seeing the bruises that marred my skin, I could only imagine how I looked. It was a good thing I had no one to impress. I stood in the bathroom longer than necessary before finally accepting I couldn’t simply stay in there all night and walked out, my fingers gripping the towel tightly as I stared at the detective before walking over to take a seat at the small table across from where he was.}
Zeke: I lifted my eyes slowly when I eventually heard Venn venture out of the bathroom. He’d been taking so long, I was about to ask if he’d gotten lost. But the fact he was taking his time wasn’t something I wanted to highlight. It didn’t impact on me, and I’d probably need it if I was in his shoes. Used to running under the radar and not being the main centre of shit. I also wasn’t sure how often he’d been in any kind of fight. By the looks of his hands, not all that many, since there didn’t appear to be any kind of defensive wounds there. Though, depending on who happened to beat the shit out of him, he might have got had time to get a look in. If that was the case, I was hugely surprised he was still alive. Which meant they wanted him alive, assuming the scare would be enough to turn him against doing whatever it was he wasn’t meant to do. I dragged my teeth across my bottom lip as I thought. Deciding my best bet was to just ask Venn what had happened and then we could possibly work together in figuring this shit out. I leaned forward and grabbed the bandage from the table before moving down to one knee in front of the man, “Lift your arms to the side and breath normally while I wrap these. It’ll feel tight, but if it’s too tight please let me know. I’ve done this a few times, but normally it wasn’t going to be on long enough for it to matter too much if I got it 100% right.” I shrugged a shoulder in apology and tipped my chin so I could focus on the male in front of me, glad he wasn’t fighting me all that much. I just hoped that I managed to do this properly, not that it’d make him feel any better come the morning. I frowned when I took a proper note of the various abrasions and other marks across his torso and up to this throat. Someone had really done a number on him, and I really was curious as to why he wasn’t a broken shell in the morgue right now, “They worked you over well.” I mumbled as I got to work. Leaning in to wrap the first piece around the widest part of his chest, then testing it a couple of times before I was happy with the placement. Once I was sure I could keep the end in place, I started to repeat the motion, having to lean closer than I’d really have liked each time I brought the bandage around his back, “I’m surprised they didn’t just kill you. You want to tell me what happened? Just start from the beginning as you remember it. I can record it if you want, or I can help you write it up once I’m finished here. I normally go over things more than once with someone, it sometimes means that we remember more as we go. Sometimes it just allow you to run through events and ensure we have it correct.” I smiled up at the male and tried to keep as friendly as I could. My brain was totally focused on my role in this, wanting to relax Venn and allow him to feel comfortable enough to talk to me. The fact I was enjoying this wasn’t something I was willing to entertain until much, much later.
Venn: {I damn near bit a hole through my lip when the detective knelt before me, my hands falling right to my lap. Hands he requested I lifted….right. I snorted and then shrugged, well, if that’s what he wanted. I grimaced and lifted my arms, leaning slightly forward to allow him more room to work. I stared over his shoulder and tried to ignore the fact he was this close, touching me as he was. I reminded myself he didn’t give two shits about me, like everyone else. He was only doing his job and needed my cooperation. My mental shields raised to cover the pain of both his actions and my own mentality. The only time I could lower my guard was in the shower and even then it was dubious.} It’s fine, I just don’t want to fuck it up more than it is. Since I can’t exactly get it looked at professionally.
{I nodded and signed at his proclamation about the asshole who did this. Killing me would have been too easy. Though I’m sure that would come soon enough. I tried telling him before, briefly. I didn’t even give the guy at the station all the information. I wasn’t sure who I could trust and usually when a cop heard it was one of their own who beat the beat down, well, it didn’t always go so swimmingly for the accuser. But there was something about the asshole in front of me that made me want to tell him the full story, warn him again that he was in danger. It was his fault I was in this damn situation and yet here I was trying to protect him however I could. I was so fucking stupid. Thankfully it only applied to my integrity and not the jobs I did or I’d have been caught long ago.} Papers get lost and shit. Record it on your phone, save it in multiple spots, back ups and all that shit. And the promise you’ll send me a copy too. I can’t access it now, nor can anyone else, but I want proof for my damn self since I was wicked away.
{I watched him carefully as he finished up the wrapping and then waited to see if he’d agree to my terms. It wasn’t like I was asking for the world, just a little insurance for myself. I’d already experienced the bad cop bullshit, I didn’t want to get screwed because I decided to give an ounce of trust to the detective. I knew the more I cooperated the better it would go for me, so I’d talk. I’d get his deal, then depending how this all worked out, that file could be deleted or sent up the chain}
Zeke: I glanced up at Venn and shook my head, “I can take you to the hospital if you want? The paramedics would have looked at you in the cell too, but it seemed like you wanted out of there quickly. Did you want me to stop so I can take you to get checked out professionally?” I leaned back slightly, my fingers still folded around the bandage that stuck to the man’s chest like a second skin. I didn’t want to push my luck, but I did want him to talk. I kept one hand plastered to his chest with the bandage secured and reached with the other for my recorder, “I’d use my phone, but I have it turned off and all that. I didn’t have time to do all the security measures to ensure it was ok for me to bring it before we left. I’ll use it in the morning when we go to get something to eat, then we can do check ins with your lawyer and my boss. For now, I’ll use this to record you. Whatever you say can then be kept and uploaded to my computer.” I nodded and fiddled for a second with the recorder, settling to both knees as I tried to hold the bandage still and get things set up so I could record what Venn wanted to say. I had no idea what would come out of his mouth. I had a general idea, but I hadn’t really been paying all that much attention, focused too much on getting us somewhere safe. Even if it wasn’t the most comfortable place in the world. I sorted it on the table and was about to click the record button when there was a precise knock at the door, I looked over my shoulder and then back at Venn, “Hold this for a second while I grab our food. I’ll tape this for now and then if you want to have it looked at properly, we can do after you eat and record what happened.” I nodded and then pushed up off the floor, groaning as my knees protested the move. When had I gotten this old? I snorted at myself and made my way to the door, checking to see who it was before opening it. While I wasn’t afraid for our lives, I did want to keep it quiet for as long as possible. I nodded to the male as he passed over the bags of food before closing the door in his face. I deposited the whole thing on the table and grabbed up the tape, yanking off a few strips so I could bend down to finish the last of the wrapping. Checking around the back and both sides to ensure there wasn’t anything twisted wrong, before gently settling the tape across the ends of the bandage, “Sleep in a shirt tonight if you can, try to stop the ends of the tape being pulled off while you sleep. That looks about as good as I’m going to get it. So now you can eat and talk, or talk and then eat. That one is your choice.” I clicked the record button and spoke into the machine, introducing myself and Venn as well as the date and time. I then clicked the pause button and lifted my gaze to meet Venn’s, “When you’re ready, tell me to click record or you can do it yourself. No rush, but if you could try and keep things in some kind or order, that would be great. But if you suddenly remember something, just let me know when it happened and then carry on from where you were before. We can use this to write up a report, and yes, I will ensure you get a copy and I keep one with the evidence I have on you that’s out of the normal channels. Ready any time you are.”
Venn: {I arched a brow at the detective and shook my head, motioning with my hand for him to keep going. A hospital would ask questions, he’d have to give information, a trail for people to follow. It was almost tempting, but then I remembered that if that trail had the wrong person following, I’d likely end up in worse shape than I was in. I flashed a tired grin at the man} No need for a hospital, I’ll be fine with some rest, maybe some ibuprofen? A hospital will just leave a trail and since you have your phone of f so we can’t be tracked, I’m guessing you won’t want any other trails either.
{I jumped at the knock and then held the wrap as ordered and let out my own huff after he had turned away. I took the minor distraction as an opportunity to calm the flames his touch was igniting and to calm my mind that every noise wasn’t going to be someone to finish the job started at the jail. I’d never been skittish and damn sure didn’t want to start that shit now. I blamed it on the detective and how he was throwing me off balance. I counted to ten in my head and eyed the detective as he came back with the food, once he settled the tape into place and moved back to his seat, I sat back and eyed the food and the machine. I pulled out a soda and slid a bag closer so I could start to pick at one of the boxes, I was so fucking hungry suddenly that I didn’t seem to care what it was. I mumbled something about not sleeping in a damn shirt as I ate and shook my head. I’d just end up tossing and turning and doing more damage to myself. I knew how I slept. Once I had something in my gut, I lifted my eyes to the detective and wiped my fingers before hitting the record button. I kept my eyes on his so he could see the truth as I started once more with what his partner did in the interrogation room, then moved on to the little visit in the cell by S….. Picolli, that was it. The threats he made, how Cabot’s partner sent a message, and that it was bigger than this case, but he had no issues taking us both out of the picture if need be. As I wrapped up the story, my eyes narrowed at the detective as I reached out to kill the recording, my voice low} I’m not going to go back to jail, no matter what evidence you have, Detective. I will not die in there because some asshole has a hard-on for you. You have my cooperation for now, you said there was bigger fish you needed my help to catch, and I will, but I will not be going to jail so you can just get that out of your head now. Now, finish eating so we can both get some needed rest. I won’t run if you don’t give me a reason to.
Zeke: I nodded as I finished up eating my food, “I’ve got a first aid box in the car, I keep a few extra things in there, other than bandages and safety pins. I’ll grab you some painkillers after we’re finished here.” I smiled again and then brought out a pad and pen, making sure I was finished with my food before we got started. I’d have liked to have done it all in one go, but since we had all night, and who knew how much longer after that, I would give some leeway so Venn could feel he had some say. As soon as that button was pressed I listened and took notes. Trying to keep my expression neutral as I focused on the facts without getting emotionally involved. It was hard, my partner has been with me basically from the start. While he tended to push me into the actual undercover side of things, he was always the one in my ear helping me out. I’d never suspected anything like what Venn was telling me through the chain of events. But I couldn’t deny the reaction my partner had when he’d been left alone with Venn. And having spent time with him in a one of the interrogation rooms, and then again now, I could see how he’d have been riled up. But not to the point of striking out. At no point had I been driven to that. We were both far too good at our jobs for that. Unless………….I didn’t want to think about that. It was up to my superiors to decide what they saw from this. I just had to hope it got there in one piece. I’d promised to get a copy to Venn, as well as keep one for myself. So I was certain that I’d be able to get what I needed and keep it secure. But I wasn’t so sure I wanted to test the theory. Did I dare push it and try to catch my partner out. In the hopes that I could prove Venn wrong, to show that he was having an off day and wasn’t about to do anything other than support me and this case. I nodded as he finished speaking, “We’ll see about the jail. I have given you an alternative, we’ll ask the judge what they think to all this once we actually get in front of them. Until then, I’ll take what we’ve just recorded and send it to those who need it. Keep a copy for myself and you’re welcome to send whatever you need to wherever. So long as you’re ok with me watching over your shoulder if it’s somewhere you’re sending it?” I quickly uploaded the file to the computer so I could get it sent off. I sent a copy to my partner and asked him to pass it onto our chief, I then sent a copy to myself, stored it in a safe place, and then looked up at Venn, “I’m going to grab that first aid kit. You can use the computer to do whatever you need to do, but I want to see you sent it so I know you’ve not contacted anyone else, if you need to. If not, get your ass into bed so you can get some rest. I’m pretty sure tomorrow will be another busy one.” I nodded and made my way towards the door, leaving it open completely as I went to the car. Wanting to grab some painkillers for Venn as I’d promised. I felt like, I wanted him to have a good sleep. I wasn’t sure why, but it stuck in my head to make sure he wasn’t going to be in pain all night, since it was sort of my fault he was in the cell at the time.
Venn: {I sat back when I was finished, thankful I’d eaten before hand because now my stomach roiled with nervous tension. I wanted him to believe me, I needed him to understand the severity of this and the sincerity in my words. I would not go to jail. If it came to that, I’d take off and make sure no one would find me again. Not even Mr. Tenacious across from me. Did he think I deserved this because I was a criminal? Or because of my smart mouth? If so, did that make him any better than his partner? I sighed soft and sat back in the chair. I didn’t have a phone or computer at the moment, but email was out there so when the computer was slid over I typed up the email and attached the file, leaving it for the detective to see and then send. I didn’t have anything more to hide from him at this point.} I’m fully expecting that evidence to get lost on your end, but I’ll at least sleep knowing I did right by telling you. By trying to help you cover your own ass for all the good it’s gonna do me.
{I watched the detective leave the room for his kit and then used that opportunity to relax completely. I let out a low gasp as I surrendered to the pain for a moment before I pushed to my feet before he could get back. Sitting in one spot for too long, especially those damn hard chairs were doing my ribs no favors. I held the towel tight around my waist and walked over to the bed furthest from the door. Drawing the blankets back, I glanced at the door in time to watch him close the car up which meant he’d be right back so I had to hurry. I hated anyone seeing the damn pain I was in. I dropped the towel and bit my lip hard as I bent and slid onto the mattress, pulling the covers up over my otherwise naked flesh. I could tease the detective, flaunt my nakedness and all that to make him uncomfortable, but tonight I was too fucking tired and sore for any more games. I needed the pain to pass so I could get my ass back in the game.}
Zeke It didn’t take me long to grab what I needed from the pack and then make my way back to the room. Grateful that Venn was in bed and I hadn’t been forced to watch the show as he’d undressed. Not that I would have complained, but I certain would have had to look pissed off. I was worried about his ribs, but I hoped with a good sleep, and them now being wrapped up, that he’d wake up a little less sore. Though I had been in my share of fights, and usually the day after you felt worse than when it actually happened. The adrenaline from the initial fight seeing you through until you passed out. At which point everything relaxed and then set stiff, making it impossible to wake up feeling anything less than like you’d been hit by a bus in your sleep. So that was going to a fun conversation in the morning. I needed to ensure we both left the hotel before we checked in. I had no intention of putting us in danger. But I knew Venn had to speak with his lawyer, just as much as I had to speak to those higher up from me. If nothing else to let them know that both myself and Venn were alive and well. I grabbed a small glass from the bathroom and filled it with water before making my way back to the male wrapped up so I could barely make out more than his head, “Water and tablets for you. Give me five to get into bed and then i’ll get the lights turned off and we can go about trusting each other for the night.” I smiled the best I could as I put everything down on the little side table for Venn. While he was busy I got myself out of the clothes I’d changed into and folded them so I could wear them again in the morning before sliding into the second bed. The whole room was secure and I’d disabled the car, so that even if Venn escaped there was no way he was going to get anywhere fast. With a quick check, I saw that Venn had managed to take the tablets and downed half the water. With a satisfied nod I turned to flick off the lights, my sigh of contentment about all I could hear as I settled down to try and get some kind of rest before the shit started up again in the morning.