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#Post#: 43--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY
By: 22639 Date: September 30, 2011, 6:21 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
Nikki walks into the ranch's accountant's office. She asks his
secretary if he is in and is told that he won't be in for an
hour or so but, knowing how far Nikki has come, the secretary
tells her she can wait in his office if she would like. Nikki
thanks her and goes into the accountant's office, closing the
door behind her. She sits down in a chair in front of the big
desk to wait. The secretary brings her a cup of coffee then
retreats back to her own desk. Nikki stand up and walks over to
the window behind the accountant's desk. She looks out at the
skyline as she sips her coffee for a few minutes then turns back
around. Bored, Nikki walks over to the accountant's desk chair
and sits down. She reaches over and turns on his computer with
the intention of playing computer games to pass the time. After
several minutes she places her now empty coffee cup near the
edge of the top of the desk so that it is out of the way. The
silence in the office is shattered by the sudden ringing of the
phone. Startled, Nikki jumps, knocking the empty cup off of the
desk and it falls to the floor with a thud.
[Nikki] Damn! Way to go Flynn.
Nikki scolds herself. She scoots the chair over and tries to
reach the cup on the floor without getting out of the chair and
only proceeds to knock several file folders and sheets of paper
that the accountant had spread over the top of his desk to the
floor as well.
[Nikki] Oh smooth move exlax.
Nikki grumbles. She gets out of the chair and goes around to
the end of the desk. She kneels down and begins to gather up
the papers and folders. As she picks up the now straightened
stack and stands up one sheet of paper manages to slip out of
the stack and fall back to the floor. Nikki places the stack
back on the desk and bends over to retrieve the remaining sheet
of paper. She straightens up, turns the paper face up and
starts to set it on the top of the stack. Suddenly something on
the sheet of paper catches her eye and she picks it back up
again. It is a photocopy of a check. The Pay to the Order
lines reads, “Nua Tosu' “. The amount is for $750,000. It is
dated 4 days ago. Nikki looks at the signature and suddenly
feels chilled to the bone. She stares at the signature as she
slowly lowers herself into the desk chair.
[Nikki] No way.
Nikki whispers as she stares at the signature.
[Nikki] It can't be.
Nikki whispers almost inaudibly as she stares at the name Liam
Flynn written on the signature line.
[center]To be continued[/center]
#Post#: 44--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 2
By: 22639 Date: September 30, 2011, 6:23 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
Nikki recovers and sits up. She reaches for the stack of files
and papers she had knocked on the floor and looks through them
for the folder that the photocopy fell out of. When she finds
it she opens the folder. Inside she finds a typewritten letter
addressed to the accountant. It reads, “It is imperative that
the inclosed funds be deposited to the payee immediately. It is
also imperative that my donation be kept completely anonymous.
I am trusting your discretion in this matter. Sincerely, L.
Flynn.” Nikki's brow furrows and she chews her lower lip
thoughtfully. After a couple of seconds she moves the desk
chair closer to the accountant's computer. Setting the file
folder on the desk she closes out the computer solitaire game
she had been playing and looks at the icons on the desktop. She
clicks on one entitled “files”. When it opens she scans down
the list until she finds a folder entitled “Nua Tosu”. Opening
the file she scrolls down the list of files. When she finds one
called “donations” she clicks on it. Each file in the folder
bears the name of a donor...most of whom she recognizes. One
file, however, is entitled “anon.”. She clicks on it. When it
opens it reveals a ledger with 4 items...the date of each
transaction and the amount. In the first 3 “description” boxes
there are only a string of 18 numbers. The last of the 4 says
“anonymous” in the description. Nikki looks at the numbers,
trying to figure out what they represent. All 3 are identical
even though the amounts...all large amounts....are different.
She takes a post-it note off the pad on the desk and quickly
scribbles the 18 numbers on the paper. She closes out the file
and subsequent folders and turns off the computer. She looks
again at the photocopy of the cashiers check then at the letter.
She gets up and walks over to the copy machine on the credenza
behind the desk and makes a copy of the photocopied cashiers
check, the letter and the envelope stapled to the letter. She
replaces everything in the file folder they came from and sticks
the folder back on the bottom of the stack where it was.
Folding up her copies and stuffing them into her jeans pocket
she hurries out of the accountant's office. She tells his
secretary that she can't wait any longer and will call him later
then leaves the office and heads for her truck. Nikki pulls
away from the curb and heads for the Bower Agency. She hasn't
seen Craig Bower since she turned down his marriage proposal but
he is the only person she can think of who can help her figure
out what the string of 18 numbers mean. Fifteen minutes later
She walks through the doors of the Bower Agency offices and goes
up to the receptionist's desk.
[Linda] May I help you?
Linda smiles up at Nikki.
[Nikki] I need to see Craig Bower if he's in.
Nikki says...her urgency clearly audible in her voice.
[Linda] I'm sorry but Mr. Bower won't be in the office today.
Linda says smiling apologetically.
[Linda] Can someone else help you?
Nikki looks disappointed and shakes her head. She is just about
to say “no thank you” when she feels the buzz of an Immortal.
David resists the temptation to move his hand up to his temple
when he feels the buzz of another Immortal, he wonders if he'll
ever get used to this. He frowns as he opens the door, he
thought Craig wasn't going to show up today. He gasps in
surprise when he sees who's in there.
[David] Nikki?
Nikki turns around and sees David. She smiles....somewhat
relieved that it isn't Craig.
[Nikki] Have you got a minute?
Nikki asks David as she steps up to him.
[David] Sure. Even more than just one minute.
David smiles at Nikki. Then he points to a door.
[David] Come inside my office.
Nikki turns back to Linda and smiles apologetically.
[Nikki] I think it's been handled.
Nikki says with a slight shrug then follows David into his
office.
David walks around his desk and sits on the chair.
[David] So how can I help you?
Nikki closes the door to the office and takes a seat in one of
the chairs in front of David's desk. She fishes the post it note
out of her jeans pocket and hands it to David.
[Nikki] I need to find out what these numbers mean.
Nikki explains as she holds the paper out.
David picks up the paper and looks at the numbers with a frown.
[David] And where did you find this?
[Nikki] On my accountant's computer.
Nikki says a little sheepishly.
[Nikki] They have something to do with some anonymous donations
my ranch has been getting.
David studies the numbers again, then he smiles.
Nikki adds in explanation.
[David] It's a bank account. The first nine numbers are the
location of the bank.
Nikki scoots to the edge of her chair and looks at David
eagerly.
[Nikki] Really? Is there any way of finding out what bank and
who the account belongs to?
[David] Sure. Every bank has a code number, which are these
numbers right here. And then there's the agency number which are
these numbers.
David smiles as he reveals the reason for his amusement.
[David] And apparently the Bower agency and whoever this person
is share the same bank agency.
Nikki grins excitedly. It seems that the answer to her questions
is moments away.
[Nikki] Sooo.....how much trouble will it be for you to get the
answer?
David pretends to think for a moment.
[David] Hmm... phone call?
Linda comes into David's office with 2 cups of coffee. She sets
one on the desk in front of David and hands Nikki the other one
then leaves.
Nikki sits back and takes a sip of the coffee while she waits
for David to make his call.
[David] I know the manager. We handle security there. Which is
pretty convenient, we know they're not going to get robbed.
David explains as he picks up the phone and dials a number.
Nikki giggles and takes another sip of her coffee.
[David] Good morning, may I speak to Thomas Clark? It's David
from the Bower Agency.
David asks the secretary over the phone.
[David] Tom? It's David, how are you?
David says as soon as he hears the manager over the phone.
Nikki sips her coffee and watches David intently.
[David] No, everything's fine, I just need a favor. I have a
bank account number right here and I'll like to know who it
belongs to.
David says as he picks up the paper Nikki has given him.
[David] Yes, I know you're not supposed to, but it stays between
you and me.
David reads the account number over the phone and then covers
the mouth piece.
[David] Just a minute, he's looking into it.
David whispers to Nikki.
Nikki nods and takes another sip of her coffee trying not to let
her excitement show too much.
[David] Hmm do you want to know how much money is there? I can
ask.
David asks Nikki still covering the mouth piece.
Nikki shakes her head.
[Nikki] No. Just the name of the account owner.
[David] Yes, I'm here.
David answers over the phone while he nods at Nikki.
[David] No, don't worry, I won't tell anyone. Thanks Tom.
David says before he hangs up the phone.
Nikki scoots up to the edge of her chair and looks at David
expectantly.
[David] Do you know a Richard Williams?
David asks Nikki looking at her intently to see her reaction.
Nikki 's mouth drops open and she stares at David dumbfounded
for a few seconds. Then she swallows hard and finally finds her
voice.
[Nikki] Richard Williams? Really?
Nikki asks her voice almost a whisper.
[David] Yes, that's the name I've got, and judging by your
reaction, it's a yes.
David smiles amused.
[Nikki] Yeah.
Nikki says almost absentmindedly
[Nikki] He's my foreman.
Nikki slumps back in her chair. She takes a sip of her
coffee...her brow furrowed.
David frowns puzzled at her answer.
[David] He works for you?
[Nikki] Yeah.
Nikki says nodding. Suddenly she sits up, places her coffee cup
on David's desk and gets to her feet.
[Nikki] Thanks David. I owe you one.
Nikki says quickly as she turns toward the door.
[Nikki] I gotta go.
Nikki says simply.
[David] No problem, We should have a drink at Joe's one of these
days, just because you're avoiding the boss doesn't mean we
can't get together.
David says.
Nikki hurries out of the office.
[center]To be continued[/center]
#Post#: 45--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 3
By: 22639 Date: September 30, 2011, 6:23 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
[center]Just outside Penryn, Cornwall, England.[/center]
Liam wanders around the auction grounds just outside of Penryn.
He stops every once in a while to look over a horse that catches
his attention.
Beth walks around the grounds, eying a horse here and there,
though she can't take her mind off of the bay mare with a mane
as black as coal and dark brown expressive eyes. She's really
wondering why she's bothering to continue looking.
Liam feels the buzz of another Immortal and begins to slowly
scan the faces of those nearby.
Beth pauses in her tracks as she feeling the tingling ripple of
another Immortal go through her. Slowly, she turns to look for
someone looking for her. With her eyes scanning the milling
crowd, she bites her bottom lip wondering where this other
Immortal could be. She really didn't want to have to face any
one. It was something she loathed, but had to do. She walked
toward a fence keeping her eyes on the crowd. Her nerves are on
edge and her palms begin to sweat. Leaning against the fence she
rubs the palms of her hands on her jeans.
Liam doesn't see anyone who looks like they pose a threat and is
about to give up and go back to what he was doing when a young
blond woman standing several feet away catches his attention.
What grabs his attention and holds it is her brilliant blue
eyes. He has never seen eyes so blue before. He leans against
the fence surrounding one of the small paddocks and watches her
with admiration.
Beth Finally, her eyes find the Immortal. He is staring right at
her. Or was it the horse behind her? No, it's her he's eying She
swallows a bit nervously, her palms continuing to sweat. He
didn't look like a threat...at the moment. Drawing in a deep
breath, she moves away from the fence, though she doesn't move
any closer to the Immortal. Instead, she turns to her side,
leaning against the fence, and clicks her tongue to bring the
horse that has been grazing behind her over.
Liam finds himself feeling a bit disappointed when the young
woman turns away and he can no longer see those beautiful eyes.
He finally decides to go on about his business. He was getting
paid to look at the equines....not a pretty girl. He can almost
hear his boss chastising him and he chuckles to himself as he
moves away. "Of course you could always approach her and start
up a conversation," he thinks to himself. But quickly dismisses
the idea. He hasn't approached a woman socially for so many
years he can't even remember how the game is played. A voice
comes over a loud speaker announcing the next group of horses to
be auctioned off and Liam digs his ticket out of his pocket and
looks at it. He sighs seeing that he has another group to go
before his is up. He looks around and spies the beer garden and
decides it's time for some liquid refreshment. Liam weaves his
way through the crowd to the area roped off and canopied and
finds a table near the rope where he can see the horses in the
nearby paddock.
Beth extends her hand to pat the muzzle of the young stallion.
She glances over to look a the Immortal and realizes he's walked
away. That was not how she had planned it. He was supposed to
have walked over to her and started a conversation. She gives
the stallion a pat and walks away to look for the Immortal. She
can feel that her heart beat has picked up. With excitement or
anxiety? She's thinking a bit of both. She's sure that once she
introduces herself to the man...she hopes...that will disappear.
[Liam] Whatever you have on tap.
Liam says to the waitress and sits back...relaxing.
Beth sighs as she strolls along the other paddocks, looking for
the Immortal. He couldn't have just disappeared into thin air.
Taking a glance at her watch, she realizes she still have quite
a bit of time before her Alter-Real comes up on the auction
block. It was starting to get warm with the sun beating down.
She shrugs her shoulders figuring the Immortal is nowhere to be
found at the moment. She walks toward the tent where
refreshments are being served.
Liam feels an immortal buzz again and looks up just as the
waitress sets his beer in front of him. As he digs his money out
of his pocket and pays her he quickly looks around. To his
surprise (and pleasure) he sees the young woman with the
brilliant blue eyes making her way to the beer garden and a
smile crosses his face. He quickly gathers his wits about him
and leans back in his chair, draping one arm across the back of
it and picking up his glass of beer in the other hand. When the
young woman enters the beer garden Liam waves over the waitress
and points out the woman.
[Liam] Whatever she's having is on me.
Liam says to the girl who smiles knowingly and nods.
Beth feels the buzz go through her again. Slowly, her eyes
peruse the people under the tent. It takes her a moment, but
finally her eyes find the Immortal. She feels a smile form on
her lips. Well, if he isn't going to come to her, she'll just go
to him. Before she walks over, she catches a waitress and asks
her to bring her the darkest ale they have on tap, then Beth
proceeds to walk over to the gentleman. She stops at his table
and looks down at him.
[Beth] You do realize that this should be the other way 'round,
right?
Beth gives him a smile.
Liam looks up at the young woman and smiles calmly.
[Liam] This is the 21st century. Those old archaic rules no
longer apply.
Liam says in a smooth soft voice and he winks at her.
Beth 's smile brightens further and she can feel a slight blush
warm her cheeks.
[Beth] May I have a seat?
The waitress brings her her drink and sets it on the table in
front of the empty chair across from Liam and informs the young
woman that it has already been paid for.
Beth quirks a brow at him when she's told it's been paid for.
[Liam] I'd be disappointed if you didn't.
Liam says and starts to get up to pull out her chair for her.
[Beth] On...no. no...those archaic rules remember? 21 st
century...
The waitress nods toward Liam indicating that he was the one who
paid for her drink and with a grin walks away.
[Beth] Enjoy your drink...no need to get up.
[Liam] No matter what century it is....a man should always be a
gentleman.
Liam says with a grin as he pulls out her chair and waits for
her to sit down.
[Liam] Contrary to popular belief....chivalry is not dead At
least not in my book.
Liam says smiling warmly.
Beth shakes her head slightly. His brogue was definitely Irish.
A brogue she enjoyed very much. it always has a musical quality
to it. She sits down in the chair he's pulled out for her.
[Beth] Thank you....
Liam sits back in his own chair and looks directly into those
blue eyes. He extends his hand across the table in greeting.
[Liam] Liam Flynn.
Liam introduces himself.
Beth tests his name on her tongue, "Liam Flynn.." she eyes him a
little, taking in his face, "I like it," she says with a smile.
Beth slips her hand into his.
[Beth] Dr. Elizabeth Benton, but do call me Beth.
Liam gives her hand a gentle squeeze instead of a shake and
raises an eyebrow.
[Liam] Doctor?
[Beth] I have my PhD in English Literature.
Beth answers with a slight shrug of her shoulders.
[Beth] Nothing all that spectacular.
[Liam] A PhD. So you must be in a teaching position somewhere.
Liam says intuitively and sits back once again striking his
casual semi lounging pose.
Beth shakes her head.
[Beth] No, I gave up London a couple of years ago to settle here
in Cornwall. I've been writing mostly.
Beth takes Liam in with his relaxed demeanor and that charming
smile on his lips. She has a feeling he could be dangerous for a
woman like herself, but in such a good way.
[Liam] What are you writing? if you don't mind my asking.
Liam takes a drink of his beer and sets the glass on the table.
[Beth] Right now, just a piece of fiction. I try to work on
something creative in between my literary critiques. That way i
don't put myself to sleep.
Beth says with a smile. She picks up her ale and takes a long
swallow.
Liam smiles.
[Liam] I'm impressed.
Liam says simply.
[Liam] What brings you out to the auction?
Beth places her glass back down on the table, licking her lips
to remove any residue left behind.
[Beth] Well, my horse got very ill and she had to be put down.
So, I'm here looking for a horse that I can ride in my spare
time.
Beth thinks about her Appaloosa mare and begins to feel a bit
sad. She loved that mare and spoiled her rotten whenever she
could.
Liam 's smile grows bigger and he lowers his head slightly.
Beth shakes away her thoughts and looks at Liam.
[Beth] And what brings you here?
[Liam] The same as you except on a bigger scale.
Liam says still grinning as if he had just won a prize or
something.
[Beth] Bigger scale? As in horse breeder?
[Liam] Aye. I am that. Trainer...breeder....foreman. I have the
luxury of working for the owner of an Andalusian breeding farm
in Ireland.
Liam says trying not to sound like he is bragging.
Beth smiles, looking rather intrigued. "Really?"
Liam nods.
[Liam] Aye. I've had the pleasure of being around horses most of
my life. Actually owned my own breeding farm for a time.
Liam takes a drink of his beer. He notices that his glass is
almost empty and looks around for the waitress.
[Beth] Very interesting. My brother and father were horsemen.
But, they didn't feel it was appropriate for a lady to be seeing
such things. I could ride them and follow the bloodlines..that
was it.
Beth takes a sip of her ale.
Liam quirks an eyebrow at her revelation.
[Liam] You must have been raised in a very stiff family.
Liam says observantly.
[Beth] You have no idea... My father was a Marquess.
[Liam] Either that or I am a pig since I not only allowed my
wife and daughter to ride our horses but to help in the breeding
process as well.
Beth laughs, though she picks up on the word wife.
[Beth] Oh. so you're wife and daughter are waiting for you back
home then?
Beth If he has a wife, Beth would be finishing her ale and
leaving with a smile of course, but she was not going to get
involved with a married man...Immortal or not.
Liam 's eyes lower and become sad at first then very guarded and
his voice seems to thicken.
[Liam] My wife, Mary, God rest her soul...passed on over a
century ago and my daughter left home a couple of years later.
We haven't spoken since.
[Beth] I'm so sorry...I didn't mean to upset you.
Beth extends her hand and places it over his.
[Beth] You obviously loved your wife and you miss your daughter.
Beth 's mind goes over what he's said. His wife died a century
ago and he said he and his daughter haven't spoken since.
Putting 2 and 2 together meant his daughter was also an
Immortal.
Liam manages...after decades of practice....to reign his sadness
in and smiles gratefully at Beth.
[Liam] I did....and I do. But that was then....and this is now.
Liam spies the waitress and waves her over.
[Liam] Care for a refill?
Liam asks Beth.
Beth shakes her head.
[Beth] No, but thank you. Ale, the sun and I don't mix all that
well.
[Liam] Definitely a Brit.
Beth chuckles.
Liam says teasingly and winks at her.
[Beth] Yes, very much so unfortunately.
[Liam] I...being a full blooded Irishman....
Liam says leaving his sentence open to the imagination.
[Beth] Yes, can drink me under the table twice...
Liam pretends to look offended.
[Liam] Twice?
Liam says.
[Liam] Try 4 times.
Beth laughs.
Liam winks then laughs a hearty laugh.
[Beth] All right...so you have me figured out there. I can't
hold my liquor. It's a shame, I know...
[Liam] I'm not sure I would respect a woman who could either
match me drink for drink or out drink me.
Liam says rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
Beth can feel her body warming and relaxing from the ale she had
already consumed and only half the glass is empty. If she
finishes what she has left, she risks being a bit tipsy.
[Liam] Call me old fashioned but those kind of ladies usually
aren't ladies.
Beth smiles.
[Beth] No, they usually aren't.
Liam thinks about his daughter and can't help but smile a bit as
he thinks that if she is still alive....she might just be able
to keep up with him since she was more of a tomboy than a satin
and lace girl.
[Liam] That's nothing to be ashamed of. At least you won't ever
wake up not being able to remember what you did the night
before.
Liam says and snickers.
[Beth] My friends, when I was...well you know...used to tease
me. They called me "Dizzy Lizzie" I hated it, but it was the
God's honest truth. They've been long gone and I had to go tell
you.
Liam places his finger over his lips and looks at her, his eyes
twinkling mischievously.
[Liam] I swear on every leprechaun in Ireland I will never tell
a soul.
Beth sighs with relief.
[Beth] Thank you.
The loud speaker crackles and a voice announces the next group
up for auction.
[Liam] Well....that's my group.
Liam says and empties his glass.
Beth nods.
[Beth] Thank you for the drink, Liam.
Liam doffs an imaginary hat.
[Liam] Aye. It be me pleasure, lassie.
Liam says in an exaggerated brogue.
Beth smiles, enjoying his brogue.
[Beth] I do love an Irish accent...
Beth sighs, not realizing she had said it aloud.
Liam gets to his feet. he hovers over the table a bit longer
then finally gets up the nerve to say, "enough that you might
want to hear it again? Like maybe over dinner?"
Beth flushes a deep crimson.
[Beth] I said that out loud didn't I...?
Liam smiles warmly down at her and nods.
[Liam] Aye. You did that.
Beth shrugs her shoulders. "See...Dizzy Lizzie..."
Liam says softly.
Beth feels rather embarrassed that she had said that aloud. She
chews on her lower lip as she looks up at him.
[Beth] Yes, enough to hear you talk over dinner.
Liam smiles a bit broader.
[Liam] I don't have to be back in Ireland for 3 more days. If
you give me your number I will call you tomorrow morning and we
can set the time.
[Beth] All right...
Liam says marveling at how rusty he feels at this.
Beth grabs a cocktail napkin and jots down her cell number. She
looks up and hands the folded napkin to him.
[Beth] You know, my group is after your's...if you don't mind
waiting we could grab something after the auction? There's a
nice seafood restaurant about 2 miles down the road...if you
like seafood.
[Liam] As much as I would like to I will probably be tied up
arranging transportation for the 6 or 7 horses I purchase this
afternoon.
Beth nods.
Liam says a bit of sadness in his voice.
[Beth] Just thought I'd ask.
[Liam] But I promise to call you first thing in the morning and
make plans. I don't want to go back to Ireland without seeing
you at least one more time.
Beth smiles.
[Beth] Okay...I'll talk to you in the morning.
Liam says and realizes just how that must sound after them only
having met less than an hour ago. He regrets saying it but it's
out there and can't be taken back. “God you are lousy at this,”
he thinks to himself.
[Beth] it was very nice meeting you, Liam.
Liam is hesitant to leave the table but knows he has a job to
do. he smiles and takes Beth's hand. Bowing gallantly he kisses
the back of it.
[Liam] The pleasure was all mine, ma lady.
Beth feels her cheeks warm once again as he brushes his lips
across her knuckles.
[Beth] Good luck with your auction.
[Liam] Thank you. You, too.
Liam says and smiles warmly. “I've already gotten lucky,” he
thinks to himself.
[Beth] Thank you
Liam looks into her blue eyes one more time then tears himself
away and heads for the auction arena...whistling as he goes.
Beth watches him as he weaves his way through the crowd, her
eyes drifting from is shoulders all the way down his back,
resting a little too long on his derrière before she turned
away. "I think I did well for myself today even if I lose that
mare..." she smiles and takes a sip of her ale feeling very
pleased.
#Post#: 69--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 4
By: Cyberfox277 Date: September 30, 2011, 7:43 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
[center]Penryn, Cornwall, England[/center]
Liam pulls up to the curb in front of Beth's house. He looks in
the rear view mirror and straightens his tie then gets out and
goes to her door and rings the doorbell.
Beth feels the buzz before the doorbell sounds. She walks to the
front door and pauses at the mirror at the entry way. She runs
her fingers through her hair quickly and gives herself a once
over. She opens the door and smiles. "Hello, Liam...please come
in."
Liam holds out a small bouquet of flowers that he has been
holding behind his back. He smiles almost shyly at Beth.
[Liam] These are for you.
Beth takes the flowers from him as she steps out of the doorway
so he can come in. She brings the bouquet to her face and draws
in a deep breath to take in their scent. "They smell and look
beautiful, thank you, Liam."
[Beth] Give me a minute to find a vase for these.
Beth walks to the kitchen to go look for a glass vase she knows
she has somewhere
Liam stands just inside the front door, feeling a bit awkward.
[Liam] Glad you like them.
Beth finds the vase. She fills it with water and drops the
bouquet in figuring she can tend the flower properly a little
bit later. She walks back out and sees Liam still standing in
the doorway.
[Beth] You could have come in, Liam.
Beth says sweetly as she gives him a smile.
Liam chuckles nervously.
[Liam] I guess I'm a little out of practice. It has been....
Liam tries to make some calculations in his head.
[color=white][Liam][color=lightgreen] ...almost 2 centuries
since I did this.
Liam smiles sheepishly.
Beth 's eyes widen with surprise. "That's a long time and
somewhat impressive in it's own way." She gives him a warm
smile.
[Liam] So if I do anything that would be considered out of
line....or too old fashioned....just kick me.
Liam winks, feeling a little more at ease.
Beth chuckles. "I'll remember that."
[Liam] So....where is this restaurant you mentioned?
Liam says inching toward the door.
[Beth] I was thinking we could go to the seafood place I
mentioned yesterday.
Liam extends his arm for her to take.
[Liam] Shall we then?
Beth grabs her purse then steps outside to close and lock her
door. "Yes...but one thing...."
Liam stops and looks at her questioningly.
[Liam] Yes?
Beth stands right in front of him and takes his tie and begins
undoing it. "You won't need this..."
Liam face flushes with embarrassment He hadn't realized just how
rusty at ]this dating thing he was until now.
[Liam] I suppose i could use it to hang myself when the night is
over.
Liam says and takes the tie and shoves it in his sport jacket
pocket.
Beth finishes untying the tie and then unbuttons the top two
buttons of his dress shirt, her finger brushing across his skin.
[Liam] I do drive a car. I promise.....it's not a buckboard.
Beth looks up at him and smiles. "Just take a deep breath and
relax, Liam." She gives his chest a pat and moves away from him.
[Liam] I wouldn't blame you if you turned around and went back
inside...bolted the door and set the hounds out to chase me
away.
Liam says with a chuckle.
[Liam] But before you decide to do just that....may i escort you
to my car so we can get something to eat first?
Liam says extending his arm again.
Beth takes his arm. "Maybe it will help if you just think of
this as meeting a new friend, which in a way that's what this
is."
Liam thinks to himself, "I don't have many of those either," but
keeps it to himself. He escorts her to his car, opens the
passenger door and helps her in then goes around and gets in the
drivers seat.
[Liam] Where to?
Liam asks starting the car.
Beth gives him the directions to the smallish seafood
restaurant. "It's not too far from here."
Liam pulls away from the curb and follows Beth's directions. He
pulls into the parking lot of the restaurant and parks the car.
He gets out, walks around and opens the passenger door and holds
out his hand to her.
Beth slips her hand into his and gets out of the car. She gives
his hand a reassuring squeeze before she lets go of his hand.
Liam locks the car and extends his arm to her and escorts her
into the restaurant. As they wait for the hostess to seat them
he looks around at the casual attire of the other patrons and
understands why beth had removed his tie.
When the hostess gets to them, Beth requests they sit outside.
The hostess gives her a nod and leads them to a table out on the
deck, which sits out on a ledge with waves lapping at the edge
of the rocks.
Liam holds Beth's chair for her and when she has taken a seat he
takes the one across from her. he looks out at the view then
looks back at her approvingly
[Liam] Very nice.
Their waitress comes up to the table and asks if they would like
to start with a cocktail and Liam looks at Beth to see if she
wants one.
Beth shakes her head. "No thank you, but I will have some iced
tea please."
Liam orders an Irish whiskey on the rocks and the waitress
disappears to get their order, leaving two menus behind. Liam
hands one to beth and opens his.
[Liam] I take it that you're fairly familiar with this place so
what do you suggest?
Liam asks looking over his menu.
Beth takes the menu and sets it aside, already knowing what she
wants.
[Beth] I usually get the salmon. It's grilled with this nice
Asian seasoning. Their fish and chips are excellent of
course... The blackened flounder is good too.
Liam closes his menu and sets it on top of hers and looks into
those gorgeous blue eyes of hers for the first time tonight and
smiles.
[Liam] The salmon sounds perfect.
Liam says just as the waitress brings them their drinks.
Beth smiles. "A very good choice." She watches the waitress
place their drinks on the table.
Liam The Waitress asks if they are ready to order and Liam nods
toward beth letting the indicating to the waitress to take
Beth's order first and the young lady looks at beth.
[Beth] I'll have the grilled Asian salmon. And for an appetizer
could you bring out an order of stuffed mushrooms please?
The waitress writes down Beth's order and looks at Liam.
[Liam] Make that two on the salmon, please.
Beth hands her menu over to the waitress.
Liam says smiling politely at the waitress who turns and
disappears to get their order. Liam looks back out at the waves
crashing below them.
Beth watches Liam. "I think this is one of my favorite places to
come to."
[Liam] I can see why.
Liam says and looks back at her, studying her face.
[Liam] There's something about the surf crashing against the
rocks that can be very relaxing.
Liam says with a smile.
[Liam] At least to me it is. I suppose there are some who would
think it too noisy.
Liam takes a sip of his drink.
[Liam] Oh....so how did it go at the auction? Did you get the
horse you wanted?
Liam asks sincerely interested.
Beth smiles. "I did. I had to spend a bit more than i wanted to,
but I had fallen in love with the mare so it was worth it." She
takes a sip of her iced tea. "How did you do in your auctions?"
[Liam] I managed to get 4 of the 6 I bid on. Which isn't too
bad. My boss is happy. Three of them are stallions that are
prime studs which is what makes him happy because it makes him
more money.
Liam explains.
[color=white][Liam] What are you going to name your new mare?
[Beth] I'm not sure yet. I want to spend some time with her
before I pick a name.
[Beth] My last mare was named Cookie because she loved sugar
cookies.
[Liam] How old is she?
[Beth] She's about 2 and a half.
[Liam] Has she been broken yet?
[Beth] No, I'll be heading to the stable I board my horses at
this weekend to watch the process.
[Liam] Do you know what method they use to break horses?
Liam asks taking a sip of his drink.
Beth shrugs. "I have no idea what method they use actually."
Liam shrugs and smiles.
[Liam] I was just curious. I have a very specific belief in the
way to best break a horse....
Liam says taking another sip of his drink.
[Liam] That is without BREAKING it....if you know what I mean.
Beth nods. "I understand. I like my horses to have their own
personality and have some spirit."
Liam nods and smiles...glad to know that she understands what he
is talking about.
[Beth] That's why I'm going this weekend to watch. I don't want
her spirit broken. If I object to what their doing, I'll find
somewhere else to have the horse broken.
Liam reaches into his inside jacket pocket and withdraws a
business card and hands it to her.
[Liam] If you ever need someone to break a horse for you....feel
free to give me a call. If I can't get the time to come to you I
know several people around the globe that believe as I do.
Beth smiles and takes the card. "Thank you."
[Liam] Do you ride just for pleasure?
Liam asks just as the waitress walks up with a large tray. She
sets up a stand and sets the tray on it then places their orders
on the table in front of them. She asks if they need a refill on
their drinks and Liam looks at Beth questioningly before
answering the young lady.
Beth nods. "Yes. It's something I've done for a long time. When
i was growing up there wasn't much for a woman to do. I was
allowed to ride and I'm very thankful for that."
[Beth] Oh, no, I'm fine thank you.
Beth says to the waitress.
Liam smiles and tells the waitress no and she leaves. he turns
his attention back to Beth.
[Liam] I know that it is considered bad form to ask a lady her
age but....
Liam quirks an eyebrow hoping to not actually have to say the
words.
Beth smiles. "I'm 286. I was 27."
[Beth] And you?
[Liam] I just turned 603 in March.
Liam says leaning forward so he doesn't have to speak loud
enough to maybe be over heard.
[Beth] Really, March? I just turned 286 in March.
Liam 's eyes dance with excitement and he looks at he
quizzically
[Liam] Really? March what?
[Beth] The 18th.
Liam sits back in his chair and laughs out loud.
[Liam] Amazing.
[Beth] What?
Beth watches him rather amused.
Liam leans forward and looks into her eyes...his own still
laughing.
Beth leans in. "What's so funny?"
[Liam] You are not going to believe this....but my birthday is
the 17th. St. Patty's Day.
Beth laughs.
[Beth] You're kidding?
Liam shakes his head.
[Liam] I guess we have more in common than we first thought.
Liam chuckles and takes a sip of his drink.
[Beth] It would seem so.
Liam takes a bite of his dinner and savors it before swallowing.
Then he looks back up at beth and grins.
Beth cuts into her salmon and takes a bite.
[Liam] You were right. The salmon is very good.
Liam takes another bite.
[Beth] Here in Cornwall?
Liam nods.
[Beth] No, I grew up in Salisbury. You know, where Stonehenge
is.
Liam nods.
[Liam] I know it well.
Liam remembers fighting a war near there several centuries ago.
[Liam] Have you ever traveled outside of the UK?
Liam butters a roll and takes a bite.
Beth nods. "Oh yes. I've traveled much of Europe, been to the
US. I lived in Dublin for a little while."
[Liam] Dublin? When was that?
Liam asks and stops eating while he waits for her reply.
[Beth] Right before World War I. I left after the war. My
husband was killed in the war and staying there was just too
painful for me.
Liam 's eyes lower to his raised fork which he slowly lowers
back down to the plate. He turns his head and stares blankly out
over the pounding surf as memories of the loss of his own wife
flash through his mind.
[Liam] It seems that they are with us only a moment.
Liam says in a soft voice.
Beth nods. "Yes, it seemed that way. But it's not a moment I
regret at all. I would do it again even if I knew his life was
going to be cut so short."
Liam nods and picks up his drink.
[Liam] Aye. As would I.
Liam says and then takes a deep sip of the whiskey. He sets his
glass back down and looks into Beth's blue eyes...which seem to
comfort him a bit.
[Liam] May I ask how long you were married?
[Beth] I had only been married for a couple of years before he
was killed. We'd only been married a little over a year before
he had enlisted. So that last year I barely saw him.
[Liam] So you were basically still newly weds.
Liam says observantly. At least he had 20 wonderful years with
his beloved Mary.
[Liam] Did he know?
Liam asks quietly.
[Liam] About you I mean?
[Beth] Yes, he knew, which made it that much harder for me. He
was one of the very few who knew.
Liam looks back out over the surf at the horizon disappearing
into the darkness of night.
[Beth] Sometimes, I think it may have been the reason why he
went off to war. To prove something to himself and me.
[Liam] I never told my Mary...God rest her soul. For 20 years I
hid it from her. I hid a lot of things back then that I
shouldn't have.
Liam says sadly.
Beth draws in a slow breath, drinking in the salty air.
Liam sucks in a slow breath and glances back at beth
apologetically.
[Beth] But you loved her and she loved you. We all make
mistakes.
[Liam] And we learn from our mistakes. or at least we are
suppose to.
Beth nods.
Liam is thinking about what he had kept from his
daughter....what he should have told her....prepared her for and
didn't. he shakes his head and looks down at his drink.
[Liam] And some mistakes are destined to haunt us for the rest
of our lives. And those we can only learn to live with.
Liam says quietly.
Beth places a hand on his giving it a gentle squeeze. "I think
we should find something else to discuss before we both sink
into a hole we can't get out of."
As if on cue the waitress walks up to the table and asks if she
can get them anything else. Liam looks up at the young lady and
forces a smile then looks at Beth questioningly.
[Beth] No, thank you.
Beth gives the waitress a polite smile.
Liam smiles warmly up at the waitress and tells her that they
are fine and the young lady takes her leave. Liam takes in a
deep cleansing breath and looks down at his mostly empty
plate....his appetite having faded. As he glances over at Beth's
plate he hooks his thumb over her hand that she had placed over
his and holds it there.
[Liam] Are you finished?
Liam asks softly.
Beth nods.
Liam adopts a more light hearted demeanor.
[Liam] Then what say we seek a change in scenery?
Liam asks looking into her eyes.
Beth takes a deep breath. "Sounds good to me. There's a cliff
walk not to far from here. We can walk to it if you;d like."
Liam smiles and nods. he raises his hand to summon their
waitress and when she is in sight makes a handwriting gesture
indicating he would like the check.
[Liam] Sounds perfect.
Liam 's smile broadens. When the waitress brings the check, he
lays his credit card on the tray and she takes it
away...returning quickly with his card and receipt. He gets to
his feet and helps beth to hers and escorts her out of the
restaurant.
[Liam] Lead the way, my lady.
Liam says gallantly once they are outside.
Beth takes his hand and leads him a block down from the
restaurant An entrance to the cliff walk appears in front of
them within a few moments. She walks onto the cliff walk, which
is lit dimly with lamps set into the concrete walls.
Liam steps up to the wall next to Beth. The night breeze off of
the channel is cool and there is a light mist from the waves
breaking against to rocks below them. He looks down at the surf
and the white foam from the waves looks almost iridescent in the
light of the full moon. He turns slightly and looks at Beth. Her
hair is shining like strands of gold in the moonlight.
Beth leans against the wall next to Liam. "This is another one
of my favorite spots. I come here if I need to think and
sometimes I run on the walk."
Liam continues to look at her admiringly as he listens in
silence to her talk.
Beth can feel his eyes on her, but she continues to talk. "The
cliff walk ends about a mile that way," she points to her left,"
and it turns into beaches."
[Beth] It's a rather lovely place to live. It helps with the
writing. I can find different scenery all over Cornwall.
Liam suddenly loses all of his earlier inhibitions. He reaches
out with one hand and places two fingers under her chin and
gently turns her to face him. He looks down into her eyes and
finds himself getting lost in their depth. Before he realizes
what he is doing he is leaning down and softly touching his lips
to hers.
Beth is shocked by his move. She hadn't expected him to make the
first move like that. Her shock finally subsides and she brushes
her hand across his cheek as her lips move slowly over his.
Liam lets his lip lingers on hers a few seconds longer then
pulls away and looks down at her as he realizes what he has
done.
[Liam] I'm sorry, Beth. Did I cross the line? Was that too soon?
Liam asks apologetically.
Beth smiles. "No, you didn't cross the line. I was just a little
surprised is all."
Liam lifts her chin and looks deep into her eyes....as though
looking into her soul.
Beth looks up at him. "Of course, if I played it by how I was
taught this would be much too fast."
[Liam] I couldn't help myself. You are the most beautiful woman
I have seen in a century. Each time I look in your eyes I get
lost in them. You make me feel alive. In a way i haven't felt in
over a century
Liam says in a soft voice.
[Liam] I just couldn't let the night end without letting you
know.
Liam lets his hand drop away from her chin.
Beth smiles at him with a blush on her cheeks. "Thank you. I
know this is a bit new to you since it's been so long."
Liam wants more than anything to take her in his arms and kiss
her again but he fights the urge....trying desperately to remain
a gentleman.
[Liam] I would like to....
Liam hesitates a second.
[Liam] ...to see you again.
Liam says softly as he looks into her eyes.
Beth tilts her head, looking up up at him. "I would like that
too."
[Beth] But you do go back to Ireland soon don't you?
[Liam] I know you said that you were working on your writing
right now.....but do you think you could clear your schedule for
a few days....sometime in the near future....and join me in
Ireland? I would love to show you the Ireland I know. Not the
ones the tourists see. And I would foot the bill.
Liam asks hoping it's not too soon to extend such an invitation.
[Beth] Sounds like an idea. Or I could make it really easy and
just send my mare to the stables you work at and have her broken
there.
Liam 's smile broadens and his eyes dance.
[Beth] I could spend next weekend in Ireland knowing full well
my horse is being broken properly.
[Liam] I can make the arrangements before I leave tomorrow if
you'd like me to.
Liam says his excitement at the prospect of spending a whole
weekend with her grows.
[Beth] Yes, please do.
[Liam] All I need is the name and address of the stables you
have her boarded at now.
[Beth] Okay, I can get that information for you when I get back
home.
Beth smiles. She hasn't been back to Ireland ever since Quin,
but this wouldn't be Dublin It was time for her to go back and
have memories that don't remind her of him.
In her deep blue eyes the reflection of the moon takes on a soft
glow and Liam feels as though they are enveloping him....bathing
him in a warmth he can't remember ever feeling. He stares into
her eyes as though in a hypnotic trance for several seconds then
shakes himself out of it and looks over her shoulder at the
darkness that used to be the horizon. Finally he glances at his
watch and then looks back at her.
[Liam] It's getting late and tomorrow is an early day for me.
Would you mind if I took you home?
[Beth] Of course not. And it will just take me a minute to get
the info that you need to get my mare to Ireland.
Liam , not knowing if he might get another chance tonight, leans
down and gives her a gentle, brief kiss before escorting her
back up the walk to his car.
#Post#: 81--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 5
By: Cyberfox277 Date: October 1, 2011, 8:40 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
[center]Dublin, Ireland[/center]
Liam is standing just on the other side of the exit gate at the
airport in Dublin waiting for Beth to appear.
Beth steps off the plane after the short ride. She has a small
carry-on with her, but everything she needs is in her checked
bag. She walks up the two flights of stairs that bring her to
the gate entrance She heads for the exit as as she does she
feels that all to familiar buzz tingle through her. She should
have known Liam would be waiting for her. As she turns the
corner, she sees him there.
Liam feels the buzz of another Immortal and looks up. Seeing
Beth he feels his pulse quicken. He smiles and walks towards
her. When he is closer he produces a single red rose from behind
his back and holds it out to her.
[Liam] Welcome to the Emerald Isle.
Liam says softly.
Beth smiles at him and takes the rose.
[Beth] Thank you, Liam.
[Liam] Do you have your claim check?
Beth nods.
[Beth] Yes, just one bag.
Liam holds out his hand for it.
[Liam] I'll take care of that for you.
Liam says with a smile.
Beth pulls her small carry-on that is slung over her shoulder in
front of her and searches for a few seconds to find her claim
check. Finally, she finds it in a small pocket. She pulls it out
and hands it to him.
[Beth] Thank you... I have a feeling I'm going to be saying
that a lot on this little trip.
Liam takes the claim check from her, crooks his elbow for her to
take and proceeds to escort her to the baggage claim area.
[Liam] Your horse arrived yesterday...unharmed....and has been
resting comfortably at the ranch.
Liam says as they make their way through the busy terminal.
[Beth] Good. I was a little worried about her, but should have
known she was in very capable hands.
[Liam] She's a spitfire, for sure. But then you probably know
that already.
Liam says chuckling.
Beth smiles.
[Beth] Yes, I know that. It's part of why I liked her so much
and paid so much for her.
[Liam] Have you thought of a name for her yet?
[Beth] No. not yet. I'm sure I'll have one in the next day or so
as I watch her.
Liam arrives at the baggage claim area and walks over to the
carousel He lets go of her arm and wedges himself between two
other passengers and waits for the baggage from her flight to be
sent through the chute to the carousel
[Liam] What does your bag look like?
Liam asks over his shoulder.
[Beth] It's a large light blue color and I have lime colored
tags on it with my name and address.
Beth bites the inside of her lip because she knows he'll
probably do the man thing of asking her why she brought such a
large bag.
Liam watches as several suitcases and duffel bags fall onto the
carousel and start their circular parade. One fitting her
description falls out of the chute.
[Liam] Is that it?
Liam asks pointing to the bag.
Beth goes on tip toe so she can see over his shoulder. And there
was her large light blue suitcase with lime green tags still
attached.
[Beth] Yes, that's it.
Liam waits for it to get within reach and grabs hold of the
handle and lifts it off of the carousel with ease. He steps away
from the carousel and transfers the suitcase to his other hand
and crooks his elbow for her to take.
[Liam] Ready?
Liam smiles down at her.
Beth slips her arm through his and nods.
[Beth] I'm ready.
Liam escorts Beth through the terminal and out to the parking
structure.
[Liam] I'm parked one floor up.
Liam says and leads her to the elevator. When the car arrives he
leads her inside and presses the button and the elevator ascends
to the next floor.
[Liam] So how was your flight?
Liam asks as the elevator door opens on their floor.
[Beth] It went well.
Beth follows behind him as he leads the way to the car.
[Beth] It was shorter than any other plane ride I've ever taken.
Liam chuckles.
[Beth] I liked that part.
[Liam] I was actually surprised to see your flight was on time.
That particular shuttle is known for its delays.
Liam gets to his car and opens the trunk. He puts her suitcase
inside and takes her carry on from her and sets t in the trunk
also.
[Beth] I was too, but the weather seemed t be all right. It was
a little bumpy, but I've been in worse.
Liam leads her around to the passenger door, unlocks it and lets
her in.
[Liam] Your chariot, ma lady.
Liam says with a gallant bow.
Beth smiles.
[Beth] Thank you
Beth gets into the car.
Liam closes the door and almost sprints around to the driver's
side and gets in. He starts the car and drives out of the
parking structure. Once he gets out of town on the open road he
relaxes, resting his left arm on the door so it is part way out
the open window and holds the steering wheel by his fingertips.
[Liam] Ever been outside of Dublin?
Liam asks as they speed along the road.
[Beth] I have, but it was a long time ago. I'm sure a lot has
changed since then.
[Liam] The ranch is about an hour from here. In a small town
outside of Killenny.
Liam explains.
[Beth] I don't think I've ever been to Killenny.
[center]*****1 hour later*****[/center]
Liam cruises casually along the highway and turns off onto a
country road that follows the coastline for a while then turns
inland. They come around a curve and Liam has to come to a stop
to let a flock of sheep and their herder cross the road. Ahead
can be seen a sign that announces the town of Killiney. When the
sheep clear the road, Liam continues on. The first building they
come to is a small pub and Liam pulls up in front of it and
parks.
[Liam] Thirsty?
Liam asks Beth.
Beth looks at Liam. "Yes...plus it will be nice to stretch my
legs."
Liam gets out and walks around to her side of the car and opens
the door for her...holding out his hand for her to take.
[Liam] Ma lady?
Liam says gallantly.
Beth slips her hand into his and gets out of the car. She gives
him a smile as she brushes past him.
Liam closes her door and escorts her into the small tavern.
There are a few men in the pub. A couple at the bar...a couple
at tables....and several in the back of the tavern throwing
darts. Liam escorts Beth to a table in front of the only window
where they have a view of the main street and the dart players
in the back. A young barmaid comes up to the table and Liam
orders a draft.
[Liam] What would like?
Liam asks Beth with a smile.
Beth looks at the woman. "Tea with lemon, please."
Liam relays Beth's order to the barmaid and she disappears. He
sits back in his chair and looks over at Beth.
[Liam] This is the only tavern in town. It's where the men come
to socialize...commiserate over their day...play some darts and
unwind.
Liam explains then leans forward.
[Liam] And gossip like old ladies.
Liam says softly and winks.
Beth chuckles.
[Beth] Basically, a place to get away from their lives for a
little bit.
Liam nods. The barmaid brings them their drinks then leaves.
[Liam] O'Dell's has been here for three generations. I think it
was here even before Killiney became a real town.
Liam says quietly so as not to be over heard.
[Liam] I can remember when this town had this pub and one other
building that doubled as the town hall...post office and
constable's office. Of course that was....a long time ago.
Liam says with a wink.
[Beth] So this was a very small town back in the day.
Beth says as she pours tea into her cup from the small steeping
pot and then squeezes a slice of lemon into it before dropping
in a lump of sugar.
Just then a man in the back of the tavern sees Liam and calls
out to him. Liam lifts his mug in greeting and the man comes
over to the table. "Hey, Flynn. When are you going to let me win
back what you stole from me the other night?" The man asks and
Liam chuckles.
[Liam] Stole from you? You've lost your mind, John. I won fair
and square.
Liam says to the man. He glances over at Beth and winks.
Beth smiles as she brings her cup to her lips to take a sip of
hot tea. She finds it interesting that the man thinks Liam stole
his money.
The man notices Beth and gives her a sheepish grin. "I'm sorry.
I didn't realize you weren't alone," he says to Liam. Then to
Beth he says, "I'm John Ferber. Pleasure to meet you, miss." He
holds out his hand to her.
Beth puts her cup down and takes the man's hand, giving him a
warm smile. "Hello, John. I'm Dr. Elizabeth Benton, though you
can just call me Beth."
John takes her hand and raises it to his lips and kisses the
back of it. Then he flashes what is supposed to be a charming
smile that shows his missing teeth. Liam takes her hand away
from John and scowls at his friend.
[Liam] Alright...alright. Go find you're own girl. This one's
mine.
Liam says teasingly. John chuckles. He looks at Beth with a
mischievous grin and says, "warning to the wise...never play
darts with this bloke. He cheats." He winks at Beth. "I will
have my revenge, Mr. Flynn. Mark my words," he says jokingly and
walks...staggering a bit...back to his dart buddies. Liam
chuckles shaking his head.
[Liam] John's a character. Loyal and honest as the day's long. I
don't think I've ever seen him in a bad mood. He's always got a
light hearted attitude. I think it's the reason he's so welcome
in here. He raises everyone's spirits.
Liam says and his admiration is apparent.
Beth watches John walk off and looks at Liam. "He strikes me as
that type," she says as she picks her cup up for another sip.
[Liam] If you're still around next Thursday night I'm entered in
a tournament here and I would love for you to be my cheerleader.
Liam says with a boyish grin then takes a sip of his beer.
[Beth] Of course! Then I can be the judge of whether you cheat
or not.
Beth flashes him an innocent smile before she covers it up with
a sip of tea.
Liam pretends to be offended.
[Liam] You wound me, ma lady.
Liam's cell phone rings and he pulls it out of his pocket and
looks at the screen. He looks at Beth apologetically.
[Liam] Ummm....I need to take this.
Liam says and puts the phone to his ear.
Beth nods. "Go right ahead."
[Liam] Hello?
Liam listens for a few minutes.
Beth glances out the window to take in the scenery as she sips
her tea and to give Liam a bit of privacy.
[Liam] I see.
Liam's brow furrows worriedly and it's obvious he is thinking
about what he has just been told.
[Liam] OK. Well....can you do one more favor for me, then?
Liam listens.
[Liam] I'm going to have a check for....ummm....
Liam thinks a couple of seconds.
[Liam] ...$150, 000.....wired to you...in your name. I need you
to make the donation in your name.
Liam listens.
[color=white][Liam] That's right....your name. I don't want
anyone to know it came from me. Can you handle it for me?
Liam listens.
[Liam] Good. Thanks. I owe you. Kepp me posted.
....OK.....thanks again. Bye.
Liam hangs up and puts his cell phone back in his pocket.
[Liam] Sorry about that.
Liam says to Beth and takes a drink of his beer.
Beth looks back at Liam. "Oh, it's all right...business is
business." Having heard the amount of money involved it must be
quite important.
[Liam] Unfortunately it wasn't exactly business.
Liam says softly....a concerned look still shadowing his face.
[Beth] Oh...I had just assumed....
Beth watches Liam's face and wonders what is bothering him, but
she refrains from asking since she doesn't know him all that
well to ask such a thing.
Liam isn't quite sure if he should tell Beth what the phone call
was about. He's not sure if she would understand. But he likes
this woman.....is somehow drawn to her and he doesn't want their
friendship....or whatever it might grow into be based on hiding
things.
[Liam] Remember in England I told you I had a daughter?
Liam says leaning closer for a more "intimate" conversation.
Beth nods. "Yes, I remember that."
Liam takes a deep breath. If she doesn't judge him after
this....then she is definitely a keeper.
Beth folds her arms on the table and follows his lead by leaning
in closer.
[Liam] She left home when she was 17 and never returned. She
never reached out after that and after all this time....I figure
she has just assumed I was dead. I let her go....didn't chase
after her because I had failed her as a father so completely
that I knew she was better off without me around.
Liam looks down at the condensation on the outside of his beer
mug.
[Liam] But that didn't mean I didn't love her....or that I
didn't care. So for the last 156 years I have been keeping an
eye on her from afar.
Liam takes a drink of his beer...giving Beth time to absorb what
he has said.
Beth sits up as she realizes what he's telling her. Beth
whispers, "She's one of us?" she asks though she already knows
the answer to that, "And did you tell her what she would
become?" She keeps her voice hushed as she watches him.
Liam's expression darkens with a deep sadness and shame. He
can't bring himself to look at Beth.
[Liam] No. That was how I failed her. I knew from the
start....when she was just an infant....what she was but I never
said anything.
Liam finishes his beer and signals the barmaid for another.
There was no going back now. He was in it too deep.
[Liam] At first I was afraid to say anything because I had never
told my wife what I was. Then....as time went by....
Liam hesitates as he tries to organize his thoughts.
[Liam] ....I guess I went into a form of denial. I worshiped
that little girl. She was my sunshine. No matter how bad the day
had been...seeing her bright little face....the twinkle in her
eyes....it was like being bathed in sunlight. I didn't want to
admit that she could someday lose her head. So I guess I figured
that if I never told her what she was...never actually said it
out loud..and never trained her...I could keep her in a
bubble...keep her safe and would never have to lose her.
The barmaid brings Liam his beer and he takes a long drink.
[Liam] In the long run....I ended up smothering her so much that
she rebelled and ran away. Went out into the world completely
unprepared for what would happen to her.
Liam stares down at a drop of water on the table.
[Beth] In the back of your mind you had to know that perhaps
someday her day would come...
Beth pauses a moment.
[Beth] But I can't say I fault you. I'm not sure what I would do
if I had been in your shoes. I don't know if I knew before hand
what I was would have helped me or not. My teacher knew my
family and could have easily had said something, but I'm sure I
would have laughed in his face and thought him a loon.
[Liam] But I was her father. It was my responsibility to raise
her....to prepare her for life. It's every parent's
responsibility...whether their Immortal or not. I compounded my
failure as a father with my failure as an Immortal. If someone
hadn't taken me under their wing....explained to me what I was
and taught me what I needed to survive I wouldn't have lasted 6
months. That's when I faced my first challenge. It is our
responsibility to do what we can when a pre-Immortal or new
Immortal come into our lives. If we can't teach them ourselves
we can at least find someone who can. To just ignore them....to
turn our backs on them is as bad as taking their heads
ourselves.
[color=springgreen]Liam takes a drink of his beer.
[Liam] At least that's what I was taught and...with the
exception of 17 years....what I believe.
[Beth] But parents make mistakes....some small, some big. Yes,
you were in denial hoping she'd be your little girl forever, but
that doesn't make you a bad father. She's still alive. Yes, a
teacher shows us how to use a sword, but there's more to it than
that. She's a survivor obviously.
Beth speaks quietly, keeping her tone gentle.
Liam nods his head and swirls his mug so the foam from his beer
clings to the inside of the glass. He watches the designs it
makes.
[Liam] Aye....that she is. She managed to find someone to do for
her what I should have done and has managed to make a god life
for herself. She was the first female sheriff in the Pacific
Northwest Territories in the late 1800s.
Liam says looking at Beth. His eyes twinkle with pride.
[Liam] And she was a surgical nurse in the Army in the South
Pacific during WWII. She didn't know it but I was at her
graduation ceremony and was on the docks when she returned home.
Beth gives him a sweet smile. "She's obviously an accomplished
woman in her own right."
[Liam] Anyway....a few years ago she bought an old run down
ranch in the state of Washington and renovated it. Then she
turned it into a home for teens who had been in the foster care
system for so long and were labeled unadoptible. They are given
responsibilities around the ranch including preparing a horse
for either showing or rodeoing.
Liam takes a drink of his beer.
[Liam] That call was from my contact in the states...my eyes and
ears as it were. It seems she threw a big benefit party recently
to earn money for the ranch....I guess she's in the government's
holding pattern awaiting grant payments....and she didn't quite
make her goal. I'm sure you heard the rest.
Liam wonders if Beth will be leaving for home sooner than
planned...in a hurry to get away from the loser.
Beth nods as she sits back in her seat. "I'm guessing that you
don't want her to know it's from you...." she stops speaking for
a moment and realizes..."She doesn't know that your Immortal
does she?" she whispers so only he can hear her.
Liam shakes his head.
[Beth] That's why you wanted your contact to put it in their
name....
Beth sits forward again, "Liam, why haven't you gone to her and
let her see that her father is still alive?"
[Beth] She deserves to know that you've been there for her even
if from afar.
Liam sighs sadly and leans back in his chair looking up at the
ceiling.
[Beth] If you're worried about what happened over all those
years ago, put it aside. When I found out what happened to me, I
went directly to my father, who quickly told me I was never his
daughter in the first place. But if I knew he was still alive, I
would put the past aside and make my judgement against the man
he is today, not the one from so long ago.
[Liam] It's not a decision I made lightly, Beth...believe me.
She hated me when she left home....and if she found out that I
knew what was going to happen to her and didn't prepare her....
Liam closes his eyes.
[Liam] She's happy. Successful. That's all I ever wanted for
her....happiness. I don't want to suddenly show up in her life
and mess it up for her. I don't want hurt her anymore than I
already have. I made up my mind a long time ago that there was
no place for me in her life. I have accepted it. I have watched
her life from the shadows for 150 years. I won't come out of the
shadows unless there is no alternative. If she gets into trouble
and can't get out by herself or has no one to help
her....then...if there is no other way I can help but to step
out of the shadows....I won't hesitate but I pray that will
never be necessary.
[Beth] How do you think she'd feel if she found out from another
one of us that you are still alive? Do you think that would make
her feel any better? She'd probably be even more angry. I know I
would be.
Liam shakes his head
[Liam] Then I guess I will just have to take every precaution to
make sure she never finds out.
A middle aged woman enters the tavern and heads for the back
room. There is sounds of an argument and then she reappears
dragging John by his ear lobe and swearing in Gaelic. As they
pass by Liam and Beth's table John grins sheepishly at Liam and
says, "See you Thursday night Flynn. And don't forget your
wallet." Liam smirks at John, waves him off and shakes his head.
[Liam] That is if the Mrs. lets you out of the house, John.
Beth watches the woman drag John out of the tavern, obvious she
is his significant other.
Liam says with a chuckle. He glances at Beth then empties his
glass.
[Liam] So do you want to continue on to the ranch? Or would you
rather I take you back to the airport so you can make a hasty
escape?
Liam asks Beth as he digs some money out of his pocket to pay
the bar tab.
Beth finishes off the rest of her tea before she answers. "we
can continue on to the ranch."
Liam nods and gets up. He walks over and extends his hand to
help her up.[i]
[Liam] It's only about 20 minutes from here.
[i]Beth takes his hand and gets up. "I can't wait to see it,"
she says with a smile. She doesn't remove her hand from his, but
holds onto it reassuringly.
Liam escorts Beth out of the tavern and helps her into the car.
He is silent for the remainder of the drive to the ranch.
[center]To be continued[/center]
#Post#: 82--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 6
By: Cyberfox277 Date: October 1, 2011, 9:29 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
[center]***20 minutes later***[/center]
Liam steers the car along the narrow road that hugs the coastal
cliff line for a few miles then veers inland. Before long they
are traveling down a tree lined road that winds along under the
canopy of the trees. Finally the trees begin to thin and they
find themselves on the top of a knoll overlooking a small
lushly green valley checker boarded with white fenced pastures.
Liam pulls the car as close to the side of the rode as he can
and comes to a stop. He leans forward and points to the valley
below.
[Liam] See that large white building down there...near the
center of the valley?
Beth looks to where Liam is pointing. "Yes..." she glances at
Liam with a bit of a questioning look.
[Liam] All of the white fences that surround it....up to the
road....is the Emerald Heaven.
Liam says pointing to the fences in both directions from the
building.
[Liam] That building is the main barn and stables.
Liam puts the car in gear and eases it forward a little ways
then leans forward and points again.
[Liam] From here you can just make out the backside of the main
house.
Liam says indicating a large red brick house just behind the
stables. He sits back and watches Beth's face for her reaction.
Beth eyes widen in surprise. She hadn't thought the place would
be so expansive, but she should have known better. This was the
place Liam made his lively hood. He would have the best of the
best.
[Beth] It's amazing.
Beth sounds a little breathless. She knows her horse will be
much better off her than the other stable she had sent the mare
off to.
[Beth] How long have you had this place?
Beth continues to take in the large plot of land with awe. How
she would have loved such a place as this when she was growing
up.
[Liam] 16 years ago this coming August I saw it for the first
time from this very spot.
Liam says in answer to her question.
[Beth] And you've probably spent most of that time making it
into what it is today.
[Liam] I haven't done it alone.
Liam says with pride.
[Liam] Every one of the men who work on the ranch have spilled
just as much sweat....put in just as much love as I have,
[Beth] How many people do you have working this place?
[Liam] There are 8 men and 2 women on that work the ranch and
handle the stock. In America they would call them cowboys....and
that includes the foreman. Then we have 1 cook, a vet and an
accountant slash business manager who takes care of all the
books and administration chores.
Liam says ticking them off on his fingers as he mentally
calculates his answer.
[Liam] Oh...yeah. And an attorney...but he doesn't live on the
property. So....14 plus me.
Liam smiles proudly.
[Beth] That's a lot of people to keep track of, but it would
take that many people to keep things running smoothly.
Beth is glad to know that he has all his bases covered in
business. That told her that he was incredibly responsible and
serious about his business. And his pride, she could see that
clearly written on his face.
[Beth] It's beautiful from up here, but I'm sure it's even
better up close.
Beth smiles at him giving him the hint that she was excited to
see this place up close.
[Liam] You ready to venture on?
Liam asks with a grin.
Beth nods.
[Beth] Let's get going.
Liam puts the car in gear again and pulls out onto the road. He
drives into the valley slowly so that Beth has the opportunity
to see everything. Finally....when the road begins to veer back
towards the coastal cliffs, Liam turns onto a road paved in well
packed gravel....almost as though it were cobble-stoned The road
gently winds along...bordered on each side with clean white
fenced pastures. A few young horses frolic in the emerald green
grass of one pasture while a half dozen mares....obviously with
foal....graze in another.
[Liam] Those are our yearlings.
Liam says as they pass the young playful horses.
Beth looks at the young horse at play.
Liam comes to a fork in the road and takes the left one, which
widens a bit and within a few short minutes they drive under a
white iron archway. Beyond it is a large circular area that is
lushly landscaped with colorful flowers and a fountain in the
center. The drive circles around the fountain.
[Beth] You must do well in the breeding area of the business to
have that many foals running about.
[Liam] Breeding is the money maker in this business. The
training and boarding is just icing on the cake. Alone it would
barely keep half of all of this in the black.
Beth nods, understanding what he is saying. Breeding would have
to be the bread and butter of such a well staffed facility as
this.
Liam says in response to her statement. He pulls around the
fountain and comes to a stop in front of the main house. He gets
out and jogs around the front of the car to Beth's side and
opens her door for her...extending his hand.
[Liam] Welcome, ma lady, to my little paradise.
Beth slips her hand into his and gets out of the car.
Liam says with a boyish grin.
Beth gives him a smile. "I would have to agree that it is a
little paradise."
The double french doors of the main house fly open and a young
man with flaming red hair....dressed in blue jeans, a t-shirt
and boots comes loping towards them.
[Liam] Right this way, madam.
Beth looks a bit surprised to see someone acting as a servant.
She quirks a questioning brow at Liam before turning back to the
young man. She follows behind him.
Liam says, crooking his elbow and slipping her hand through it.
The young man cheerfully greets Liam and Liam tells him their
luggage is in the trunk of the car. As the young man jogs to the
back of the car, Liam escorts Beth into the house. They are
immediately greeted by an large, older woman.
[Liam] Elizabeth Benton? I'd like you to meet the true ruler of
this roost...Mrs. O'Brian. Mrs. O'Brian this is Beth
Benton....the lady I wired you about.
Mrs. O'Brian extends her hand in greeting as she gives Beth a
scrutinizing once over.
Beth takes the woman's hand and gives it a firm shake.
[Beth] It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. O'Brian.
The young man with the red hair enters the foyer carrying their
luggage and sets it down , looking at Liam for further
instructions. Mrs. O'Brian speaks before Liam gets a chance and
instructs the young man to take Beth's bags up to the guest
room.
[Liam] And this is Kyle McPatrick....our foreman. Kyle this is
Beth Benton.
Liam says and stands aside so Kyle can greet Beth....which he
does by rubbing his hand on his jeans then extends it.
Beth gives the young man a smile as she takes his hand and gives
it a shake. "A pleasure to meet you Mr. McPatrick."
"Please....call me Kyle, Miss Benton. I'm not old enough to be
Mr. McPatrick, yet," the young man says with a broad grin.
[Liam] Kyle.....has Miss Benton's horse arrived yet?
Liam asks the young man who nods and says, "just about an hour
ago." He then picks up Beth's bags and excuses himself and heads
up the stairs. Mrs. O'Brian looks at Liam with a slight scowl.
"Now before you go dragging this poor young lady out to the
barn....let her have a chance to catch her breath." Then to Beth
she says, "are you hungry, dear? I have a small lunch prepared
if you are a mind." Liam gently elbows Beth in her side and
leans closer.
[Liam] Better not turn her her down. No one has turned down one
of Mrs. O'Brian's meals and lived to tell about it.
Liam whispers and winks at Beth.
Beth gives the older woman a nod. "Yes, please that would be
lovely. Thank you."
Liam smiles down at Beth.
[Liam] Would you like me to show you to the guest room?
Liam asks but Mrs. O'Brian gives him a shove out of the way and
says, "I'll show her to her room. You go wash up for lunch."
[Liam] Yes, mam.
Liam says and salutes the woman.
[Liam] I guess I'll see you in a bit.
Liam says to Beth with a smile, then heads for the downstairs
bathroom to wash up as instructed.
Beth watches as Liam leaves their company and then turns to face
Mrs. O'Brian.
[Beth] Would you like me to help you with anything, Mrs.
O'Brian?
Mrs. O'Brian shakes her head. "You are a guest, Miss Benton.
You're not here to work." She gives Beth a sidelong glance and
winks. "At least not in the house." Mrs. O'Brian proceeds to
lead Beth upstairs and to the guest room. She opens the door to
the room and steps aside to allow Beth to enter first. "There
are extra blankets in the trunk at the foot of the bed in case
you get cold at night. The bathroom is in there," she points to
a door on one side of the room. "And there are extra towels
under the sink. If you need anything just let me know."
[Beth] Thank you very much.
"I'll leave you to it then," Mrs. O'Brian says in her thick
Irish brogue. "Come down when you're ready." Then she disappears
down the hall.
Beth takes in the room. It has an airy feeling and is painted a
light color. Blue perhaps? It is hard to tell with the sun
coming in through the windows. She moves to the bathroom. It is
has it's own window on the opposite wall so it is also full of
sunlight. She goes to the sink and runs the water until it's
lukewarm. Leaning down, she splashes her face with some water
and then reaches for a towel to pat her face dry. Next, she
washes her hands and dries them on the towel. She folds the
towel neatly and puts it to rest at the corner of the sink
before she leaves the bathroom and walks back into her room.
Taking a quick look at the other side of the bed, she sees that
her luggage is all there. This place is definitely efficient
Liam finishes washing up and walks out of the downstairs
bathroom. He quickly checks the kitchen to see if Mrs. O'Brian
has returned. When he sees the woman is back at work in the
kitchen he quietly heads up the stairs, taking them two at a
time. He goes to the door of the guest room and knocks on the
door very softly so as not to be heard by Mrs. O'Brian
downstairs. Then...as an after thought...he reaches over to the
table against the wall next to the door and quickly snatches a
flower out of the vase on the table.
Beth walks to the door and pulls it open. She is expecting to
see Mrs. O'Brian standing on the other side, but is surprised to
see Liam standing there.
[Beth] I wasn't expecting you. I thought you were Mrs. O'Brian
coming to tell me something else.
Liam holds the flower out and smiles boyishly.
[Liam] I don't think Mrs. O'Brian would bring you flowers.
[color=springgreen]Liam says with a wink.
[Liam] Are you settling in?
Liam asks in a soft voice and leans against the door jam.
Beth smiles at the flowers he's holding out to her. She takes
them and steps aside so he can come in.
[Beth] Yeah, it's a lovely room.
Liam takes her side step as an invitation and slips quietly into
the room without taking his eyes off of Beth's face.
[Liam] And you have just made it lovelier.
Liam says and immediately feels himself blush as he realizes how
corny that must have sounded.
Beth feels a blush creep into her cheeks at his compliment.
[Beth] Thank you.
Beth moves into the bathroom again to find something to put the
flowers in.
Liam is mesmerized by the way the sunlight streaming through the
window catches the highlights of her hair and he doesn't realize
he is staring at her.
There is a glass sitting by the sink so Beth fills it up with
water and puts the flowers in it. She walks back out and places
the flowers on the night stand by the bed.
[Beth] Do you know what Mrs. O'Brian is making for lunch?
Beth says to make small talk. She turns around to see Liam just
staring at her, which makes her blush a deeper shade of pink.
Beth's question startles Liam back to reality and he quickly
turns and pretends to be studying a black and white print
hanging on the wall behind him.
[Liam] I'm not sure. Usually she makes some of her homemade soup
and sandwiches for lunch.
Liam says, shoving his hands into his pockets.
Beth walks over to Liam and slips her arm through his, hoping to
make him feel a little bit more comfortable.
[Beth] Sounds like a good lunch. Not too heavy and not too
light.
Liam clears his throat awkwardly and looks down at Beth.
[Liam] May I escort you to lunch?
Liam asks trying to not sound like a school boy.
Beth smiles up at him and nods. "Yes, you may."
[Liam] Right this way, Ma lady.
Liam says.
[Beth] Lead on, good sir.
Liam leads Beth out of the room. As he closes the door behind
them he leans closer and whispers, "by the way....I was never
inside your room," and winks.
Beth chuckles softly.
[Beth] Is Mrs. O'Brian that strict?
[Liam] I wasn't exaggerating when I said she is the true ruler
of the house. She has taken on the job of being everyone's
mother....and she takes her job VERY seriously.
Liam answers Beth only halfway joking.
[Beth] Ah, so we must be on our best behavior then.
[Liam] Or just be careful not to get caught.
Liam says with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. He proceeds to
escort Beth down to their awaiting lunch.
[center]To be continued[/center]
#Post#: 83--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 7
By: Cyberfox277 Date: October 1, 2011, 10:03 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
Nikki pulls up next to the Nua Tosu' work truck and skids to a
stop. She gets out of her truck, slamming the door shut, and
heads for the barn. She storms through the barn and into
Richard's office.
Richard looks up as his employer enters his office. He sees the
look on her face and knows immediately that she is pissed about
something.
[Richard] Nikki? What's.....
Nikki reaches behind her without looking and slams the door to
Richard's office shut and storms up to his desk. Placing her
hands on the desk top and leaning her weight on them she looks
directly into her foreman's eyes.
[Nikki] I thought we were more than just employer and employee.
Nikki says...her voice quiet and controlled.
Richard looks up at her a bit surprised at her comment.
[Richard] We are...at least I thought we were friends. Nikki
what's wrong?
Richard says looking up at Nikki questioningly.
[Nikki] Really? Friends?
Nikki says...slight sarcasm edging her voice.
Richard nods and opens his mouth to speak.
Nikki immediately interrupts Richard.
[Nikki] Alright. Then on that assumption.....
Nikki says and stands up straight...her gaze still locked on
him.
[Nikki] ...tell me why one friend would lie to another about
something he knew was important to his friend?
Nikki asks...folding her arms across her chest and glaring down
at Richard.
[Richard] I....
Richard starts then changes his mind. Not knowing exactly what
Nikki is referring to...what has set her off...he decides it
best not to answer her question. Instead he sits back in his
chair and looks up at her.
[Richard] Nikki please....sit down and just tell me what this is
all about.
Richard says calmly.
Nikki's temper threatens to flare.
[Nikki] I don't want to sit down.
Nikki says through gritted teeth.
[Nikki] I just want you to tell me why you have been lying to
me all this time.
[Richard] Lied to you about what?
Richard asks sitting forward again and folding his hands on the
desk.
[Richard] Nikki I have no idea what you are talking about.
[Nikki] Fine. We'll play it your way.
Nikki says and turns away from Richard. She walks over to the
credenza and pours herself a cup of coffee from the coffee
maker.
[Nikki] It's never been a secret that I have always been more
than curious about who has been making the anonymous sizable
donations that seem to arrive just in the nick of time.
Nikki says evenly as she puts two spoonfuls of sugar into her
coffee and stirs it.
Richard sits back in his chair and rubs his hand over his face
as he begins to realize what is going on.
[Nikki] You, especially, have been privy to my curiosity as we
have discussed the mystery several times. And during each of
those discussions you have expressed your lack of knowledge and
claimed to be equally as curious.
Nikki turns around and leans against the credenza. She takes a
sip of her coffee as she looks up at the ceiling.
[Nikki] Imagine my surprise to learn that three of the four
mysterious donations had been wired into Nua Tosu's account
from......
Richard closes his eyes and holds his breath.
Nikki looks at Richard.
[Nikki] ….your bank account.
Nikki takes another sip of her coffee then sets the cup on the
credenza. She walks slowly over to Richard's desk...taking the
folded up photocopy of the last donation check out of her pocket
and unfolding it. When she reaches the front of the desk she
slams the photocopy down in front of Richard and, once again,
places her hands on the desk and leans forward....glaring at
Richard.
Richard jumps, startled by the sound of Nikki slamming the piece
of paper down on his desk and opens his eyes. When he looks at
her he can no longer see the usual mischievous twinkle in her
emerald green eyes. All he sees is fire....caused by the anger
of betrayal.
[Nikki] Who wrote this check?
Nikki asks in a quiet but menacingly authoritative voice.
Richard sits forward and looks at the photocopy. He takes a
deep breath.
[Richard] Nikki, I......
[Nikki] Did you write it?
Nikki asks interrupting him.
Richard shakes his head.
[Richard] No.
Richard says softly without looking up at Nikki.
[Nikki] But you know who did.
Nikki says still glaring at him.
Richards nods slowly.
[Richard] Yes.
Richard answers simply.
[Nikki] Who is it?
Nikki asks bluntly.
[Richard] Like it says....a man named Liam Flynn.
Nikki leans closer.
[Nikki] Liam Flynn was my father. My DEAD father.
Nikki hisses through gritted teeth...her voice almost a whisper.
Richard looks up at Nikki. For three years he had only known
the man who paid him, handsomely, to keep him informed about
Nikki and route his donations through his own account to keep
them anonymous as Liam Flynn. He had never had reason to
question the man's identity since Nikki had never shared much
about her past and childhood with him. Now...to learn that the
man he had “worked for”....whose identity and existence he had
protected faithfully for three years...had obviously been less
than honest about his identity with him....had obviously found
out the name of Nikki's father and stolen his identity...caused
Richard to get a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. What
kind of sinister reasons could the man have for doing such a
thing?
[Richard] Nikki....I'm sorry.
Richard says softly and looks down.
[Richard] That's all I've ever known him as.
Richard adds quietly.
[Nikki] How long, Richard?
Nikki asks quietly.
[Richard] Three years.
Richard answers without looking up.
Nikki stands up straight and looks down at Richard...the anger
in her eyes now mixed with shock.
[Nikki] Three years?
Richard nods without saying anything.
[Nikki] That's how long you've been working here.
Richard nods again.
Nikki's knees feel weak and she steps back and drops into the
chair in front of Richard's desk. She stares at the man she
thought she knew....a man she had trusted with her horse, her
ranch, the kids and herself.
Richard finally looks at Nikki. When he sees the look of
betrayal on her face his heart sinks. It was true that he had
applied and taken this job because he was being paid to but in
the 3 years that he had been working for Nikki he had come to
not only respect her as his employer but as a horsewoman and
business woman but for her independence, intelligence and the
person that she was. He had also become fond of her and had
valued their friendship. But deep down inside there had always
been a fear that someday he would be found out and his acts
would be seen as a betrayal. That day was here.
[Nikki] Who is he, Richard?
Nikki asks in an eerily calm voice.
[Nikki] And who are you?
Richard slumps back in his chair and rubs his hands over his
face.
[Nikki] You owe me at least that.
Nikki says sadly. She watches the man she thought she knew.
Richard exhales audibly and looks up at the ceiling as he
gathers his thoughts.
[Richard] I met him in Kentucky at a horse auction 3 years ago.
I was unemployed at the time....had been long enough to have
just about depleted my savings. We shared a few beers...a few
stories...some jokes and then he told me he had a proposition
for me.
Richard looks across his desk at Nikki.
[Richard] There was someone here in the States he wanted to keep
an eye on but couldn't do it personally. He said he would pay
someone to do it for him...no questions asked. He swore that
there was nothing illegal about it and that his interest in this
person wasn't malevolent in any way. He told me that the person
was a young woman who owned a horse ranch and that if I accepted
his proposition he would pay me to secure a position on that
ranch...in whatever capacity that was available...and he would
continue to pay me for regular updates on the woman's
activities...achievements...failures....whatever.
Richard stops and looks at Nikki for a few seconds.
Nikki stares at Richard...her confusion obvious.
Richard gets to his feet and walks slowly over to the credenza.
He opens the cabinet and removes a bottle of bourbon and a
glass. Knowing that Nikki never drinks this early in the day he
fills the glass, recaps the bottle and sets it on the top of the
credenza. He downs the bourbon in one shot.
[Richard] I thought I had gotten to know the guy and...after
thinking it over...decided to take him up on his offer. He gave
me your name and where the ranch was and paid for my
transportation here and my lodging while I secured a position on
the ranch. He also gave me a cell phone which I was only to use
to contact him or him to contact me. He told me that his
existence was to be kept completely secret.
[Nikki] So everything you said when I interviewed you for the
job was bull shit.
Nikki says quietly and looks down at the toes of her boots.
Richard turns his back to her and refills his glass.
[Richard] Not completely.
Richard says simply as he closes up the bottle and picks up his
glass.
[Nikki] I see.
Nikki says simply.
Richard turns back around and slowly walks back to his desk
chair, carrying his glass of bourbon
Nikki looks up at him just before he starts to sit back down.
[Nikki] Show me both of your wrists, please.
Nikki says softly.
Richard quirks an eyebrow and looks at Nikki questioningly.
Then he decides that he isn't in any position to question her so
he sets his glass down on his desk and extends his arms in front
of him...wrists up...not quite sure what she was looking for.
Nikki looks at Richard's wrists. Not seeing the Watcher tattoo
she thoroughly expected would be there she nods and says in a
loud whisper, “thank you.”
Richard sits down and picks up his glass and drinks half of its
contents then sits back in his chair.
[Nikki] What about the donations?
Nikki asks staring blankly at the front of the desk.
[Richard] The first time the ranch was in financial trouble I
contacted him to let him know what was happening. He told me he
was going to wire money from his account to mine for an
anonymous donation. One that couldn't be traced back to him.
That happened 3 times. This last time, however....when I called
the number I had for him it went straight to voice mail so I
left a detailed message. We played phone tag 5 or 6 times then
after my last attempt to get hold of him....while I was waiting
for him to call me back...well...
Richard looks at Nikki.
[Richard] Remember our little fishing trip when you pushed me
into the lake?
Nikki doesn't respond but continues to stare blankly at the
front of the desk.
[Richard]….it was in my pocket. Since he wasn't able to get in
touch with me and his bank wouldn't do a large wire transfer
without my banks authorization which I didn't know was needed
since we hadn't made contact...the only way for him to get the
money you needed to save the ranch here in time was for him to
send it directly. I'm assuming he spoke to the ranch's
accountant and this....
Richard picks up the photocopy of the check.
[Richard] ….was the only option he was given. I still haven't
been able to speak to him since I haven't had time to replace
the phone.
Nikki says nothing. She continues to stare at the front of the
desk in silence.
Richard moves his chair closer to the desk and leans
forward...folding his hands on the desk. He looks directly at
Nikki.
[Richard] Nikki....I am so sorry that I lied to you. But....to
be honest....I don't regret taking him up on his proposal. If I
hadn't I never would have met you....gotten to know you.
Nikki continues to stare at the desk in silence.
[Richard] Nikki....I know that you have probably lost all trust
in me but please....believe me when I tell you that I NEVER
would have let him hurt you in any way. The reason I continued
to be his informant after I got to know you was because he
seemed genuinely concerned about you....for you. I have no idea
why and I know that should be weird but....for some reason it
never seemed important enough for me to press him about it. Had
I known he had lied about who he was I would have stopped and
tried to find out who he really was.
[Nikki] I want to know how to find him.
Nikki says evenly and finally looks up at Richard.
[Richard] All I know is that he is a horse trainer on a breeding
ranch somewhere near Killiney, Ireland.
Richard answers matter of factually
Nikki stares at Richard for several seconds in silence....her
face void of expression for the first time since she had walked
into Richard's office.
Richard picks up his glass of bourbon and downs its contents,
set the glass back down and looks back at Nikki...feeling a bit
uncomfortable under her expressionless stare.
[Richard] I......
Richard hesitates and clears his throat.
[Richard] I'm sorry.
Richard says again....sincerely.
Nikki gets to her feet. Without a word she reaches over
Richard's desk and picks up the photocopy of the donation check,
folds it back up and sticks it back in her pocket. She turns
and walks, almost mechanically, to the door and reaches for the
knob.
[Richard] So....I guess this means I'm fired.
Richard says sadly.
Nikki stops in her tracks. Without looking back at Richard she
says, “did you hear me say you were fired?” She doesn't wait
for his answer. She opens the door and walks out of the office
and walks, mechanically, out of the barn and to her truck.
Richard watches Nikki walk out of his office. When she is gone
he slumps back in his chair and rubs his face with his hands.
Sighing loudly he leans his head against the back of his chair
and stares up at the ceiling.
Nikki gets into her truck and drives away from the barn.
Instead of heading for the main building she turns her truck in
the direction of the northeast corner of the ranch and heads for
home
[center]To be continued[/center]
#Post#: 84--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 8
By: Cyberfox277 Date: October 1, 2011, 10:35 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
[center]***2 hours later***[/center]
Nikki has just finished making several calls to secure her a
flight to Ireland. As she packs a few things into a suitcase she
dials Methos' number and waits for him to answer....praying that
he will be home.
Methos is just about to enter home when his cell phone rings, he
taps his pockets to find it. Then he brings it out and answers.
[Methos] Pierson.
[Nikki] Hi. It's me.
Nikki says into the pone which is propped between her shoulder
and ear.
[Nikki] I need a favor.
Nikki says as she continues to put some clothes into her
suitcase.
[Methos] Nikki? Just a second.
Methos says as he fights to close the door, balancing his cell
phone and the things he's carrying.
[Methos] So what is it?
Methos asks as he carries his groceries to the kitchen.
[Nikki] I need a ride to the airport.
Nikki says as she closes her suitcase and latches it.
[Nikki] Are you available to play taxi driver?
Methos puts his groceries on the kitchen counter and finally is
able to grab the phone properly.
[Methos] Airport? Where are you going?
[Nikki] Ireland. I'll tell you all about it when you pick me up.
Nikki says then adds, "if you pick me up, that is."
[Methos] On my way.
[Nikki] Oh.....and I need you to do something for me when you
get here.
Nikki says setting her suitcase on the floor by her bed.
[Nikki] This is going to sound weird but believe me....there's a
perfectly good reason.
Nikki sits on the edge of her bed.
[Nikki] You need to make it look like you're picking me up for a
date.
Nikki closes her eyes and waits for the smarmy retort she is
fully expecting.
Methos is about to disconnect the call when he hears this, he
frowns.
[Methos] Nikki? What's going on?
[Nikki] I told you. I'll explain when you pick me up.
Nikki says and gets to her feet.
[Methos] So it's a date, huh? You better pick a nice outfit
then, can't disappoint your admirers.
Methos smirks as he takes the opportunity to put the things he
had bought in the refrigerator.
[Nikki] Already taken care of, my friend Thanks. I knew I could
count on you. See you when you get here.
Nikki says with a smile then disconnects the call.
Methos disconnects the call shaking his head, he wonders what is
this about. Then he sighs and quickly leaves his place again.
Nikki grabs her carry on and puts her toiletries in it then she
carries both cases out the back door and hurries into the
protection of the trees. She places her bags behind a fallen log
a few feet off of the road that leads from her house to the main
ranch entrance then she returns home where changes into a casual
cocktail dress, and heels. She puts on some makeup and jewelry
and pins her hair up in a French roll. She checks her
reflection in the full length mirror on her closet door and
smiles.
[Nikki] Not bad if I do say so myself.
Nikki says aloud to the empty bedroom.
[center] ***1 hour later***[/center]
Nikki paces back and forth in her living room waiting to hear
the engine of Methos' Landrover.
Methos parks the car in front of Nikki's house noticing there
are a few workers and kids outside. If Nikki wanted a show she's
going to get one. He smiles slightly as he picks the flowers he
had bought and exits his car. He walks to Nikki's door without
trying to hide it but rather showing them off.
[Methos] Nikki, your date's here.
Methos announces cheerfully as he taps her door.
Nikki opens the door and smiles at Methos.
[Nikki] Come on in.
Nikki says and steps aside so he can pass. As she does she
glances around outside before closing the door.
Methos walks in and smiles as he handles the roses to her.
[Methos] Thought you could use these. And it would look
convincing.
Nikki blushes a little as she accepts the roses from Methos.
[Nikki] Thank you. They're beautiful. I'll put them in water.
Nikki says and heads for the kitchen. She gets a vase out of
one of the kitchen cabinets and fills it with water. She places
the roses into the case and carries it into the dining room and
sets it in the center of the dining table.
[Methos] So where's the party? I don't think I'm dressed for it.
Methos comments looking at her dress.
[Methos] Nice dress, by the way.
Nikki picks up the silk wrap that is folded over the back of one
of the dining room chairs and slings it over her shoulders.
[Nikki] Thank you.
Nikki says and tilts her head like a shy girl.
[Nikki] You said to dress like I would for a date.
[Methos] Hmm yes, should have followed my own advice.
Nikki picks up the small clutch purse from the table and turns
off some of the lights in the kitchen and dining room.
Methos shakes his head amused.
[Methos] Too late now.
[Nikki] I really appreciate this. Thank you.
Nikki says as she walks towards the front door.
[Methos] The date? The roses? Or the ride to the airport?
Methos asks following her to the door.
[Nikki] D. All of the above.
Nikki says with a smile as she opens the front door and steps
out onto the deck. She waits for Methos to join her then closes
the front door, making sure it is locked. She links her arm in
his so he can "escort" her to his Landrover.
Methos smirks as he whispers to her.
[Methos] It's working, everybody at the ranch will know that
Nikki has a date.
Methos escorts her to the passenger seat and opens the door for
her.
Nikki smiles. She makes an effort to not look around as she lets
Methos lead her to the passenger side of his car. She gets in
and smiles politely.
[Nikki] You're quite the gentleman when you want to be.
Nikki says teasingly.
[Methos] Just don't get used to it.
Methos teases her back, before he closes the door and walks
around to the driver's seat.
[Nikki] No chance of that.
Nikki mumbles sarcastically after her door is shut. When Methos
gets into the car she says, "by the way....you know where that
real tight turn is in the road about 1/4 of a mile from here?"
Methos opens the door, seats at the driver's seat and closes the
door. Then he starts the car.
[Methos] Yeah, of course, just passed it on the way here.
[Nikki] I need you to pull over there for a second.
Nikki instructs.
[Nikki] Please?
Nikki adds and flashes her most innocent charming smile.
[Methos] What are you going to do in the woods? Couldn't you
have used the bathroom instead?
Methos teases as he drives off noticing everybody outside is
looking at them.
Nikki rolls her eyes and sighs She playfully smacks Methos on
the arm.
[Nikki] Smart ass.
Nikki says with a giggle.
[Methos] Oh really? Look who's talking.
Methos chuckles amused.
[Methos] Isn't that the pot calling the kettle black?
[Nikki] Takes one to know one.
Nikki teases.
[Nikki] Ok. You win. I've run out of cliches.
Nikki says and chuckles...shaking her head.
[Nikki] Thanks.
Nikki adds simply.
[Methos] It's here, isn't it?
[Nikki] Yes.
Methos asks as they get to the turn Nikki had mentioned.
Nikki answers and unbuckles her seat belt. She waits for Methos
to come to a stop then she gets out of the car and walks over to
the fallen log. She retrieves her luggage and carries them back
to the Landrover. She tosses them in the back seat then gets
back in the car.
[Nikki] Ok.....we can go now.
Nikki says as she buckles her seat belt.
Methos looks back at the luggage in the back seat with a frown
before he resumes driving.
[Methos] Care to tell me what's this about?
[Nikki] Ok. You know how I've been bugged about the anonymous
donations I've been getting that always seem to come at just the
right time and for just the right amount?
Nikki asks as she settles into her seat and gets comfortable.
Methos nods as he keeps paying attention to the road.
[Methos] Yes, but what does it have to do with you sneaking out
of your own ranch like some fugitive?
[Nikki] Well...last night I couldn't sleep because it was
driving me nuts. So this morning I went to the ranch's
accountant's office to talk to him about it. He wasn't in and
his secretary let me into his office to wait for him.
Nikki begins her explanation.
[Methos] Why do I have the feeling you went through his papers?
Methos asks as he gives her a quick side glance before turning
back to the road.
[Nikki] While I was in there I discovered two things. One was a
photocopy of the cashier's check used for the last donation. And
yes.....before you ask...I did recognize the signer.
Nikki takes a breath.
[Nikki] Unfortunately the person who wrote the check died
somewhere between 1853 and....probably 1900.
Nikki says and waits for Methos to catch up.
[Methos] Who?
Methos asks automatically still trying to make sense of what she
was telling him.
[Nikki] My father.
Nikki answers simply.
[Methos] Your father?
Nikki nods.
Methos side glances at her surprised, then he remembers he's
driving and looks back to the road.
[Nikki] Yeah. Somebody....somebody with money....has been using
his identity.
Nikki says and clears her throat.
[Nikki] I also found out that my trusted foreman has been privy
to all of this. He has been working for whoever the ass hole is.
Nikki says and the feeling of betrayal she had felt earlier when
she confronted Rick returns.
Methos almost hits the breaks at that but manages to control
himself.
[Methos] He's spying on you? That's what the show was for?
Methos asks her disbelievingly.
[Nikki] He claims he met the man while he was unemployed and the
man told him he would pay him to get a job here on the ranch so
he could keep an eye on me and report back to this guy. Rick
says that he has only known him as Liam Flynn and he had no idea
it was not his ID.
Nikki explains.
[Nikki] Evidently....each time the ranch was in trouble
financially Rick would contact the guy and Mr. Whoever he is
would send Rick the money to bail the ranch out. Rick was to put
the money in his account and use it to make an anonymous
donation. Rick said that he swore him to secrecy.
[Methos] He claims is the right word. And apparently you didn't
fire him or I wouldn't need to go there pretending we're on a
date.
[Nikki] No. I didn't. It makes it kind of hard to keep an eye on
someone when they are no longer living and working in front of
you....you know? I want to find out who this person is before I
make any decisions about what to do with Rick.
Nikki answers.
[Nikki] All Rick could...or would tell me is that the only
address he had on the guy was in Ireland so I am going there to
find this dude myself and try and find out what the hell he's up
to.
[Methos] Nikki, that line about keep your friends close and your
enemies closer is bullshit, you know? It's a two way street, you
end up surrounded by people you can't trust.
Nikki looks out the passenger window for a few seconds then
turns back to look at Methos.
[Nikki] And I suppose that you would just fire him and let the
rest of it go?
Nikki asks not really wanting an answer.
[Nikki] You ought to know me well enough by now to know that I'm
not wired that way.
Nikki says reproachfully.
Methos smiles shaking his head.
[Methos] Now you're feeling sorry for him?
[Nikki] The only person I feel sorry for is the guy who stole my
dead father's identity and hired someone to get close to me and
report back to him.
Nikki says adamantly
[Nikki] Wasn't it you that told me a long time ago that a smart
warrior chooses his battles?
Nikki looks at Methos and quirks an eyebrow. She knows that he
hates it when she uses his words against him.
Methos frowns thinking, he knows now where she's going.
[Methos] No way, absolutely no way!
[Nikki] No way what?
Nikki asks not quite sure what he means.
[Methos] You're not going after this guy. What if it's exactly
what he wants?
Methos hits the breaks and stops the car in the middle of the
road.
Nikki clears her throat audibly and turns almost completely
around so that she is facing Methos.
[Nikki] Excuuuuse me?
Nikki says dragging out the word excuse.
Just then Nikki's cell phone begins to ring. She holds up her
hand to stop Methos from saying anything.
[Nikki] Hold that thought.
Nikki says and flips open her phone. After a brief conversation
she hangs up her phone with a disappointed sigh.
[Nikki] Damn!
Nikki exclaims quietly.
[Methos] Now what?
[Nikki] The airline has canceled my flight due to bad weather in
New York which is where I was supposed to catch my connector.
Nikki chews on her lower lip thoughtfully.
Methos asks turning back to see if any car approached.
Nikki looks around actually seeing the landscape for the first
time since they left the ranch. They have already traveled well
beyond what would be considered the halfway point between the
city and the ranch.
[Methos] Can't say I'm sorry for it.
Methos grumbles turning back to the front and accelerating the
his car back en-route to his apartment.
[Nikki] What's that supposed to mean?
Nikki asks staring at Methos.
[Methos] Have you stopped to think that this guy is using your
father's name for a reason? That he's trying to lure you out?
Methos sighs shaking his head.
[Methos] And you're doing exactly what he wants you to do.
[Nikki] Well....duh!
Nikki responds with heavy sarcasm.
[Nikki] And if he wants me bad enough to steal my father's
identity and hire someone to keep an eye on me....then he wants
me pretty damn bad.
Nikki says evenly.
[Nikki] And anyone who will go to those extremes....who wants
something that bad....will never stop. Eventually...if they
haven't succeeded they will become desperate and desperate
people are dangerous people.
[Methos] Nikki, what if this guy is Immortal? And this is the
way he gets his victims? Not everyone of us plays by the book.
Methos keeps going hoping to bring some sense to her.
[Nikki] Really? I did not know that.
Nikki says with heavy sarcasm.
[Nikki] Look.....sure...I could just ignore this and wait for
him to come to me. But why put off the inevitable? Why not just
get it over with?
Nikki asks logically.
[Nikki] Besides....there's a 50-50 chance he might NOT be one of
us. And if that's the case.....I want to know what he's up to.
[Methos] Yes, but there's a 50% chance he is. You should be
going the opposite direction.
Nikki watches the sign announcing their entry into Seacouver
city limits as it swishes by. She turns and looks out the front
windshield at the approaching city lights.
Methos says knowing perfectly well, she's not going to.
[Nikki] Methos, Methos, Methos.
Nikki says shaking her head.
[Nikki] How long have you known me?
Nikki asks looking over at him...a completely serious look on
her face.
[Methos] Why don't you take a trip to Bora Bora instead? Maybe
you'd even meet someone for a real date?
Methos keeps going ignoring her question.
[Nikki] Right! Typical. Avoid the question with a jab at my self
esteem.
Nikki says disappointedly. She turns to look out the passenger
window.
[Nikki] It won't work you know.
Nikki says quietly without looking at him.
Methos takes a deep breath without looking at her.
[Methos] I know.
[Nikki] And....FYI....
Nikki says and glances at him out of the corner of her eye.
[Nikki] My plane leaves tomorrow morning at 9:00 and I WILL be
on it.
Nikki says confidently.
Methos takes another deep breath, before he does what he feels
he has to.
[Methos] Not alone you won't. I'll go with you.
Nikki sighs and rolls her eyes.
[Methos] I doubt he's expecting two Immortals, Miss Nicayla
Flynn never asks for help and always does the things alone. It's
only the logical thing to do.
Methos explains with a shrug.
[Nikki] I don't suppose there's any talking you out of it.
Nikki says more as a statement of fact than a question.
[Methos] Let's put it this way, if you're going I'm going. The
only way to make me give up is if you give up.
Methos answers thinking he'd rather stab and tie her up than let
her go there alone, even though she's be pissed at him.
[Nikki] Alright. But under 2 conditions.
Nikki says turning so she is looking directly at him.
[Methos] Which are?
Methos asks her suspiciously looking away from the road.
[Nikki] Number one.....you go along as my friend....not my
babysitter and number two....you don't get in my way.
Nikki says completely serious.
[Nikki] You know.....the old observe and record but never
interfere?
Nikki adds quirking an eyebrow.
[Methos] Number one, you're not a baby to need a babysitter and
number two, if you think I'm going to stand in the way of a red
haired woman you're out of your mind.
Methos chuckles softly despite himself.
[Methos] And you know very well the Watcher oath is not to be
taken seriously.
As they pull up in front of the building that Methos' apartment
is in Nikki says, "fine. I'm booked with British Airways. I
suggest you call them as soon as you get upstairs if you want a
seat.”
[Methos] Fine.
Methos sighs as he parks his car, he still can't believe he's
gotten himself into this.
Nikki opens the door and gets out. As she grabs her luggage from
the back seat she says, "And this time I will sleep on your
lumpy couch and you can have your bed."
[Methos] So you could sneak out of my apartment without me
noticing it? I don't think so. You take the bed.
[Nikki] Oh for Pete's sake.
Nikki says as she drags her suitcase towards the door to the
building.
Methos almost winces at the thought of spending another night in
that coach, if he was going to make this a habit maybe he should
consider buying a new one.
[Nikki] And just where would I go? Last time I checked I didn't
have wings so I' can't go anywhere until morning. So what would
I do? Hang out at the airport all night?
Nikki waits at the door to the building for Methos to open it.
[Nikki] Fine! If you trust me that little....have it your way.
But I'll cook dinner. I owe you at least that much.
[Methos] Stubborn as you are, you'd drive all night and go to
another city.
Methos grumbles as he opens the door.
[Nikki] You know.....if you really want to argue I can
accommodate you. But I warn you....I'm already pissed and tired.
So chances are....you'd lose.
Nikki says with a smirk.
[Methos] And dinner sounds good you can go right to it. If this
is your idea of a date, next time I'm sure I'll think I have
something to do.
[center]To be continued[/center]
#Post#: 85--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 9
By: Cyberfox277 Date: October 2, 2011, 12:31 am
---------------------------------------------------------
[center]***The following morning***[/center]
After boarding the airplane and stowing her carry on in the
compartment above her seat, Nikki settles into her window seat
and fastens her seat belt.
[Nikki] You know I haven't been back to Ireland since....
Nikki says to Methos and looks around.
[Nikki] ...before WW 2.
Nikki whispers.
Methos nods still busy with the seat belt.
[Methos] You might find things changed a little.
[Nikki] Oh....I'm sure they have. I probably won't recognize
anything.
Nikki says with a giggle.
[Nikki] When was the last time you were there?
[Methos] What day is it? 16th March? Hmm, one year, two months
and a week. Watcher business.
Methos shrugs slightly moving on the seat to get a more
comfortable position.
Nikki leans away from Methos and looks at him...quirking an
eyebrow.
[Nikki] Are you sure you don't know the hour, minute and second?
Nikki says teasingly.
Methos chuckles softly.
[Methos] No. Do I need to?
[Nikki] Have I told you recently that you are an intelligent
rectum?
Nikki says with a smirk.
[Methos] It's better to be an intelligent rectum than a dumb
rectum.
Methos smirked back at Nikki.
[Methos] Right?
[Nikki] Depends on who you talk to.
Nikki snickers and playfully jabs him with her elbow.
[Methos] Hey, careful, you'll spill my drink.
Methos complains moving aside, like he has a drink on his hand,
which he doesn't.
The flight attendant makes her announcement that they are ready
for take off and Nikki looks out the window as the plane taxis
down the runway. Once in the air the attendant begins her safety
monologue and Nikki mimics her quietly. Once the safety
monologue is over and the attendants begin to serve the
passengers drinks, Nikki stares out the window in deep thought.
Methos asks the flight attendant for a drink, then he looks at
Nikki.
[Methos] You're quiet.
[Nikki] Hmm?
Nikki says and turns away from the window.
[Nikki] Just thinking.
Nikki says with a shrug.
[Nikki] I'll have a cup of coffee, please.
Nikki says to the attendant.
[Methos] I've said you're quiet, as you might guess I'm not used
to it.
Methos smirks as he grabs the drink the flight attendant brought
him.
Nikki mouths the words "intelligent rectum" as she accepts the
cup of hot coffee and sugar packets from the attendant.
Methos yawns after he takes a sip.
[Methos] Hmm, I think I'm going to sleep a little, it's a long
flight and I didn't sleep properly on that bloody couch.
[Nikki] I'm glad you talked me into changing my ticket for the
direct flight to Dublin. I
Nikki says with a grateful smile.
[Nikki] I wasn't really looking forward to spending 16 hours on
a plane.
Nikki takes a sip of her coffee.
[Methos] Yeah, why change planes when we don't have to? Like
this we can just sit back and relax.
Methos moves back on his seat and this time he really spills the
drink he's holding. He looks away at the flight attendant but
apparently she missed it.
[Nikki] Besides....you hate New York.
Nikki says with a smirk.
[Nikki] Why is that by the way?
[Methos] I don't hate New York, I just don't like going there.
Methos shrugs before he empties what's left of his drink.
[Nikki] Oh....yeah. That definitely makes sense.
Nikki says shaking her head.
[Nikki] Go to sleep.
Nikki nudges him playfully and smiles a genuinely warm smile.
[Methos] Yeah, nothing better to do anyway, I'm not about to
watch one of those movies they put on the planes, thank you very
much.
Methos grumbles as he closes his eyes.
The flight attendant comes by and asks Nikki if she would like a
set of headphones and Nikki nods. Accepting them she puts them
on and reclines her seat a little. The movie starts but Nikki is
oblivious to what is on the screen.
[Methos] So don't sneak out of the plane while I'm asleep.
Methos murmurs right before he dozes off to sleep.
Nikki mouths the words "intelligent rectum" again...a
mischievous twinkle in her emerald green eyes.
[center]***The Smaragaid Parthas Ranch, Raheen,
Ireland....1840***[/center]
Nicayla, her face smudged with dirt, sat on the top rung of the
fence that surrounded the training corral and watched as her
father worked with a young, unbroken filly. Liam stood in the
center of the corral holding one end of a long, thick rope in
one hand and a 5' long riding crop in the other. The other end
of the rope was attached to the filly's bridle just under her
chin. He held the crop off to the side and snapped it in the
air to keep the filly trotting around in a circle. The dappled
gray filly pranced proudly on the end of her rope.
[Nicayla] She looks good, Da'.
Nicayla called out to her father.
[Liam] Good? She looks perfect.
Liam said with pride.
[Nicayla] When can I ride her?
Nicayla asked, excitedly.
[Liam] Patience, princess. Let's get her used to a saddle
first.
Liam said with a chuckle.
[Nicayla] I think she's ready.
Liam laughed as he slowed the filly to a walk.
[Liam] Yer Ma is right. Ye and patience have never met.
Nicayla jumped off of the fence and walked up to her father.
[Nicayla] I have to.
Nicayla retorted even though she didn't really know what he
meant.
[color=pink]Liam motioned to one of the ranch hands as he
reigned the filly to a stop.
[Liam] Cool her down then give her some extra oats as a reward.
Liam told the ranch hand as he took hold of the filly's bridle
and led her out of the corral. He turned to his daughter and
lifted her high over his head.
[Liam] Ye have, have ye?
Nicayla squealed happily.
[Nicayla] Daddy...don't tickle.
Nicayla giggled as her father began to tickle her in mid air.
She squirmed in his strong hands.
[Liam] Squirmin' worms must be tickled.
Liam laughed as he continued to tickle Nicayla.
[Nicayla] I'm not a worm.
Nicayla argued emphatically.
[Liam] You're not?
Liam asked as he set her back down.
[Liam] Then what are you?
[Nicayla] I'm yer princess, Daddy.
Liam squatted down and looked his daughter up and down.
[Liam] Nay....I don't think so. Princesses don't have such
dirty faces.
Liam said pretending to be serious.
[color=pink]Nicayla spit in the palm of her hand and tried to
rub off some of the dirt on her face but only managed to smear
it more.
Liam couldn't help but laugh at her attempt.
[Liam] Here. Let me help you.
Liam said, taking his handkerchief out of his back pocket and
using it to wipe some of the grime from Nicayla's face. After a
few wipes he put his hands on her shoulders and pushed her back
a little and looked at her.
[Liam] Ahhh....there she is.
Nicayla beamed happily.
[color=pink]Liam pulled her closer and kissed the tip of her
nose. On the porch of the bunkhouse, one of the ranch hand
celebrated the end of the day by playing a tune on his
harmonica. Hearing the melody, Liam stood up and took a step
backwards.
[Liam] May I have this dance, yer highness?
Liam asked, bowing gallantly.
Nicayla giggled and curtsied awkwardly.
[Nicayla] Aye...ye may.
Nicayla answered trying to sound grown up.
Liam bent down, placed one hand under Nicayla's left arm and
took her right hand in his.
Nicayla placed her feet on the top of her father's.
Liam began to waltz around the corral with his daughter standing
on his feet. Several ranch hands came out of the barn and
watched their boss waltz his little girl around the corral. The
tempo of the harmonica music changed from a waltz to a polka and
Liam lifted Nicayla up. He wrapped one arm around her waist to
hold her up and began whirling her around in step with the
music.
Nicayla's laughter could be heard all the way into the ranch
house and her mother came outside, wiping her hands on her apron
and she stood on the back porch and watched her husband and her
daughter with a smile on her face.
Liam looked up at his daughter...his eyes filled with love.
[center]***Present day***[/center]
Nikki becomes aware that tears are streaming down her face and
she quickly turns her head towards the window and wipes them
away...hoping no one noticed.
Methos frowns looking at Nikki, apparently she didn't realize
the turbulence had awaken him.
[Methos] What's wrong?
Methos asks in a soft voice.
Nikki grimaces at her reflection in the window...realizing
Methos had caught her. She forces a smile and turns halfway back
from the window and says, "nothing" and hopes she sounds
convincing.
[Methos] You're not going to say the wind blew something in your
eyes, are you? We're inside, not sitting on the wing of the
plane.
Methos says as he moves on his seat to sit up a little.
Nikki looks back out the window and winces. Damn her emotional
weaknesses. She hated that side of her personality. It was one
of the reasons she never watched movies like Ol' Yeller or
Casablanca.
[Methos] Moving back home is bringing sad memories?
Methos probes, hoping to make her talk.
[Nikki] I wouldn't say I was moving back....this is just a
visit.
Nikki says then adds, "but yeah...you could say that."
[Methos] Something to do with the way you left?
Methos frowns thinking for a moment.
[Methos] Actually you never told me why you left.
Nikki takes a deep breath and looks out the window at the ocean
below.
[Nikki] I left because I was an ungrateful, stubborn brat that
threw a temper tantrum because I didn't get my way.
Nikki says evenly while still staring out the window.
[Methos] What happened?
Methos asks softly still looking at Nikki intently.
Nikki turns to look at Methos. She has a serious expression on
her face.
[Nikki] Do you really want to know?
Nikki asks Methos.
[Methos] I wouldn't ask if I didn't.
Methos shrugs slightly still looking at her.
[Methos] Come on, it can't be that bad.
Methos encourages her to speak.
Nikki lays her head against the back of her seat and closes her
eyes as she vividly remembers the day she last saw her father.
[Nikki] My father owned a horse breeding ranch outside a small
village in Ireland. We had the perfect life. Not rich but we did
alright. Da' was my hero when I was growing up. He was so much
fun. He spoiled me....something my Ma used to chastise him for
all the time.
Nikki takes a breath, opens her eyes and takes a sip of her 4th
cup of coffee.
[Methos] Yeah, fathers do that to their little daughters, so?
Methos encourages her to go on.
[Nikki] We moved to the states when I was 15 and Da' set up
another ranch in the new Oregon Territory I guess that's when
things started to change....when I started to change. Even
though my resentment of having to leave my friends and the place
I knew wasn't that huge...it was there. Then...when I was 16 Ma
got TB and died. Da' was devastated He was never the same after
Ma died.
Nikki looks over at Methos.
[Nikki] Don't get me wrong...he did the best he could to run the
ranch and take care of me. He was a good man. A good father.
Nikki looks up at the ceiling.
[Nikki] But I was a handful. When I was 17 a group of traveling
actors came to the nearby town and I watched them perform.
Nikki chews on her lower lip thoughtfully for a few seconds.
[Nikki] It was Macbeth I think.
Methos frowns puzzled.
[Methos] And you wanted to be one of them?
[Nikki] Yeah.
Nikki says with a nod.
[Methos] Back at that time being an actor wasn't so glamorous as
it is now. Your father was shocked.
Methos says guessing what happened next.
[Nikki] But Da' wouldn't hear about it. We may have been in the
"new world"...where girls married and had babies at 13...14...15
years old...but Da' was from the old world where a girl wasn't a
woman until her father said she was and she left home only when
she got married...and that, too, had to be sanctioned by the
father and head of the family.
Nikki takes a sip of her coffee.
[Methos] Yeah typical father behavior, they want to protect
their little girl so much they don't realize she's grown and has
a mind of her own.
Nikki nods in agreement.
Methos nods remembering what it used to be like in the old
times.
[Nikki] The group stayed in town for a week. And I wanted to see
more so I would sneak out of the house after Da' went to sleep
and would go see them. It was my first exposure to Shakespeare.
They performed Hamlet, Taming of a Shrew and...of course...Romeo
and Juliet. That's when I fell in love with the actor who played
Romeo.
Nikki wrinkles her nose and shrugs.
[Nikki] What can I say? I was 17 and knew absolutely nothing of
life outside of horses and a small town one room school.
[Methos] And dreamed to play Juliet?
Methos asks her with a smirk.
[Nikki] Yeah. Stars in my eyes and what I thought was true love
in my heart.
Nikki says shaking her head.
[Nikki] Dumb! Really dumb!
[Methos] A true Juliet.
Methos chuckles softly.
Nikki takes another sip of her coffee.
[Nikki] So....
Nikki looks over at Methos.
[Nikki] Are you bored yet?
Nikki asks with a smirk.
[Methos] No, not bored, fascinated. I never imagined little
Nicayla Flynn wanted to be an actor.
Nikki looks out the window at the Atlantic ocean below as she
remembers that night.
[Nikki] The night the group was suppose to move on Da' woke up
and discovered I wasn't in bed...or anywhere else on the ranch.
He came to town and discovered me with the actor. He went
ballistic and drug me home. We argued until almost daylight. He
actually sat guard outside my bedroom door to make sure I didn't
leave again.
Nikki looks over at Methos.
[Nikki] Something you two have in common.
Nikki says and winks.
[Methos] Nah, I won't make a mistake like that, it was obvious
you'd leave at the first chance you got, and he couldn't guard
your door forever.
Methos shakes his head with a smirk.
Nikki nods.
[Nikki] Yeah....well he should have.
Nikki turns back to look out the window again.
[Nikki] I waited until he went to bed and snuck out of my
room...got into his money box and cleaned it out. I even took
his sword. Why I don't know. Just to hurt him I guess.
Nikki 's voice cracks and she swallows hard against the lump
growing in her throat.
Methos looks around hoping to see the flight attendant, then he
stops remembering something she said.
[Methos] And he had a sword? What kind of sword?
[Nikki] A Celtic two handed battle sword.
Nikki answers glad to be somewhat off the subject. It will give
her a chance to get control of her emotions.
[Nikki] It was the sword he used before he married and settled
down. He was a warrior in the battles against the attempts of
the British to rule Ireland.
[Methos] I see.
Methos says absentmindedly still thinking.
[Methos] So you ran away and took his sword, so where did you
go?
Methos asks as he dismisses the idea he had, probably it was
just a coincidence.
[Nikki] I didn't just steal his sword and run away.
Nikki closes her eyes and turns her head.
Methos frowns side glancing at her.
[Nikki] The things I said to him before I left. Cruel things. I
know they hurt him deeply.
Nikki puts her elbow on the arm rest of her seat and lays her
forehead on her hand.
[Nikki] I could have gutted him with his own sword and it would
have been kinder. Then....to steal ALL of his money and his
sword...
Nikki 's voice chokes and she bites her lip.
Methos turns his head as he finally sees the flight attendant
and asks her for some coffee.
Nikki swallows hard.
[Nikki] That was the last time I ever saw my Da'.
Nikki 's voice trembles and she turns her head completely away
from Methos...not wanting him to see her emotions.
[Methos] You were upset, angry...
Methos shrugs.
[Nikki] I was a cold, cruel, spoiled rotten bitch.
[Methos] People say cruel things when they're upset. Don't keep
thinking about it.
Methos grabs the coffee mug the flight attendant brings him and
thanks her.
[Nikki] I wasn't upset. I was angry because I wasn't getting my
way. And instead of respecting my father's wishes...respecting
him for the man he was and realizing that he was only trying to
protect me because he loved me...I repaid his devotion and love
with hate.
Nikki starts to pick up her cup of coffee but her hand is
trembling so she changes her mind and tucks her hand under her
thigh to hide it.
[Nikki] You want to know what happened after I left? How the
great romance I imagined fared? Yeah....I married the actor and
8 months later he was shot by a jealous husband who caught him
in bed with his wife.
Nikki looks back out the window.
Methos shakes his head.
[Methos] All that trouble and you married a fool?
[Nikki] And did I go back home and apologize? No. I was too damn
proud. Too stubborn. A year later I became an Immortal. If I had
only.....
Nikki 's cracks again.
[Nikki] By the time I grew up....matured enough to admit how
wrong I had been....it was too late.
Nikki bows her head.
[Nikki] I looked for his grave once. But by then so much of the
territory had grown and changed that I couldn't even find where
the ranch had been...let alone my Ma's grave or his. He died
thinking I still hated him.
Nikki looks at Methos...tears brimming on the edges of her eyes.
[Nikki] I didn't hate him. I NEVER hated him.
[Methos] All of us have things we wish we wouldn't have done, or
the opposite. We have a lot of time in our hands to think about
the past.
Methos says as he lightly pats her shoulder.
[Methos] I'm sure deep down inside your father knew you loved
him very much.
[Nikki] I wish I could believe that.
Nikki says and turns away...shutting her eyes tightly to try and
prevent her tears from falling.
Methos sighs words weren't working, it was time to try a
different tactic, if only he could make her sleep...
[Methos] Enough words.
Methos sets down the cup of coffee, lifts the arm rest between
them and opens his arms to her.
[Methos] Come here, kid, I think you need a hug. Doctor's
orders.
Nikki turns and looks at Methos...surprised at first then
gratefully she leans into his arms and buries her face in his
shoulder...eventually drifting off to sleep in the warmth and
safety of his arms.
[center]To be continued[/center]
#Post#: 86--------------------------------------------------
DISCOVERY Part 10
By: Cyberfox277 Date: October 4, 2011, 6:20 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
[center]***9:00 PM Raheen, Ireland***[/center]
Liam walks out of a stall with the ranch's vet.
[Liam] So what do ya think, Doc?
Liam asks the vet.
[Vet] Since this is her first it's hard to say exactly but I
would say it could be any day now.
Liam follows the vet to his truck and holds the driver's door
while the doctor gets in.
[Liam] We'll keep a close eye on her then.
Liam says with a smile.
[Liam] Thanks, Doc for taking a look at her.
[Vet] No problem, Liam. Call me if you need me.
[Liam] Will do.
Liam says and shuts the vet's door. He waves as the doctor
drives away then starts back to the barn. Suddenly he feels the
cell phone he uses only for communications from Richard begins
to vibrate so he unclips it from his belt and flips it open.
[Liam] Hello?
[Richard] We have a problem.
Liam's brow furrows.
[Liam] I'm listening.
Liam says moving out of earshot of the other ranch hands.
[Richard] She did some investigating and discovered your last
donation check and that I have been using my account to siphon
your money through. She confronted me about it and I'm sorry
but I had to tell her the truth.
[Liam] As well you should.
Liam says closing his eyes.
[Liam] I take it she was upset.
[Richard] That's an understatement. Especially about you using
her dead father's name.
Liam winces.
[Richard] I don't really care who you really are....but why did
you have to use that name of all people?
Liam opens his eyes and looks up at the sky.
[Liam] She wasn't suppose to find out.
Liam says quietly.
[Richard] I'm sorry. She totally blindsided me with her
discovery. And....to be honest....I have come to care about
her....to respect her...and I just couldn't disrespect her by
lying to her when she had me dead to rights.
[Liam] It's alright, Richard. I understand. And I'm glad that
she has your respect. So I suppose she fired you.
[Richard] Surprisingly...no. She simply got up and left the
office without a word.
Liam nods understandingly. “Sounds like she has learned to
control her temper,” he thinks to himself.
[Liam] Where did she go?
[Richard] She didn't go back to work. So home I guess.
[Liam] She didn't go back to work?
Liam says furrowing his brow worriedly.
[Liam] When was the last time you saw her, Richard?
[Richard] When she left my office. But one of the kids said
that she went on a date last night.
[Liam] How do they know that?
[Richard] They said she was all dressed up when some friend of
hers came to pick her up. I figure if she went out on a date
she must not be too upset. What do you want me to do? Should I
go talk to her?
[Liam] No. Let her come to you. If you push the issue you may
get fired after all. Just keep a low profile, do your job and
give her time to cool off.
[Richard] What are you going to do?
[Liam] There's not much I can do right now. I have an important
auction in Killkenny in the morning and a mare that is getting
ready to drop her first anytime.
[Richard] Sounds like you plan on running. If you don't mind
my saying so....running will just make you look like you're
guilty of something.
[Liam] I don't know what I'm going to do, yet. I'd ask you to
keep me informed if anything changes but you have already stuck
your neck out far enough for me, Richard. As much as I
appreciate your loyalty to my...
Liam catches himself.
[Liam] ...to Nicayla I think it is time to terminate our
business dealings. She needs you more than I do at the moment
and the only way for you to be there for her is to keep your
job.
[Richard] Well....I suppose you're right. If you're sure
that's what you want to do....
[Liam] It would be best for everyone. Thank you for everything
you have done, Richard. I will be forever indebted to you.
You're a good man, Richard Williams. Go maire tu chomh fada is
ar mhian leat, agus noch raibh tu ar an ghannchuid le do shaol.
(Gaelic for “May you live as long as you want, an never want as
long as you live.”).
Liam disconnects the call and walks slowly towards the main
ranch house. As he walks past one of the work trucks filled
with the day's trash to be taken to the dump, he tosses the cell
phone into the back of the truck.
[center]***3:00 AM GMT***[/center]
The "Fasten Seat Belt" light comes on and the flight attendants
start making their way down the aisles...waking up passengers.
The flight attendant stops at Nikki and Methos' seats and gently
shakes Methos' shoulder to wake him.
Methos wakes up with a startle when the flight attendant touches
his shoulder, when she explains they're about to land he nods
and tries to sit up.
Nikki wakes up when she feels her "pillow" move.
[Nikki] What's going on?
Nikki asks sleepily.
[Methos] We're about to land.
[Nikki] Really?
Methos explains as he moves on his seat.
Nikki sits up...rubs her eyes and looks out the window.
[Nikki] Damn! What time is it? It's pitch black out there.
Nikki says as she buckles her seat belt and straightens the back
of her seat.
[Methos] I have no idea, I was also sleeping. What time were we
supposed to land?
Methos asks as he buckles his seat belt.
Nikki thinks for a few seconds then shrugs.
[Nikki] I can't remember.
Nikki snickers sheepishly.
[Methos] We'll find out soon enough.
Methos shrugs before he rubs his eyes.
Nikki grabs her brush out of her purse and quickly runs it
through her mussed hair.
[Nikki] God.....I must look like something the cat dragged in.
Nikki grumbles as she rubs the sleep out of the corners of her
eyes.
Methos studies her face with a smile playing on his lips.
[Methos] Hmm, for someone who cried herself to sleep you don't
look very bad.
Nikki looks over at Methos and her cheeks redden with
embarrassment
[Nikki] I'm sorry. And thank you.
Nikki says sheepishly.
[Methos] Sorry? About? What are friends for?
Methos asks still smiling at her.
[Methos] Besides women cry themselves to sleep on my shoulder
all the time.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the captain's voice comes over the
intercom. "We will be landing at Dublin International Airport in
about 10 minutes. The weather report says that it is a
comfortable 64 degrees with clear skies and no chance of rain in
the near forecast. The time is 3>00 AM for those of you who need
to change your watches. Enjoy your stay and thank you for flying
British Airways."
[Nikki] Is that a fact?
Nikki says smarmily and gives Methos a sidelong glance.
[Nikki] So how long have you had this mysterious effect on
women?
[Methos] Oh, yeah, you're just the last on a long list of
weepers.
Methos chuckles softly as he corrects the time on his watch.
Nikki asks teasingly.
[Methos] Since always? It's an innate thing?
Methos smiles smugly.
[Methos] Can't help if women like to cry on my shoulder.
[Nikki] Are you sure your name isn't really George?
Nikki continues to tease.
[Methos] George?
Methos frowns thinking for a moment.
[Methos] No, I don't think I ever used it, why?
[Nikki] Georgie Porgie puddin' n' pie. Kissed the girls and made
them cry.
Nikki says in a childlike sing songy voice.
Methos chuckles amused shaking his head.
[Methos] Hmm, no, if I kissed the girls I can assure they
wouldn't cry.
Nikki rolls her eyes and shakes her head.
[Nikki] Here we go.
Nikki moans.
The plane jolts as the wheels touch the tarmac and the pilot
hits the brakes.
[Nikki] Oh....that was smooth.
Nikki says sarcastically regarding their landing.
[Methos] Yeah, we didn't crash or anything.
Methos nods smiling amused.
The plane taxis to its assigned gate and comes to a stop. The
flight attendants open the doors and lock the passageways into
place.
Nikki waits until the seat belt light goes out then stands up.
She has to wait for Methos to get out of the row before she can
get her carry on out of the cabinet overhead.
Methos unlocks his seat belt and slowly stands up.
[Methos] So any idea how to start? Rent a car?
Nikki gets up and takes her carry on out of the cabinet.
[Nikki] Let's get out of here first. I'm starting to get
claustrophobia
Nikki says gently pushing him towards the exit.
[Methos] Fine, you don't need to push. I'm going.
Methos starts to move while he shakes his head, an Immortal with
claustrophobia
Nikki moves up next to Methos once they are in the passageway
[Nikki] Ohhhh....it's good to be out of that plane. I forgot how
long a flight to the other side of the pond can be.
Nikki says as they emerge from the passageway and she stretches
her muscles. She takes her cell phone out of her purse and
holds her phone up and begins looking for a signal as they make
their way to the baggage claim area.
[Nikki] Damn! Can't get a signal here.
Nikki grumbles.
[Nikki] I'll probably have to wait until we are in the main part
of the terminal away from all of the electronics.
Methos frowns looking at Nikki while she plays with her cell
phone.
[Methos] And who are you planning to call?
[Nikki] My guy.
Nikki says simply with a shrug.
[Methos] Well, I assume you're trying to call him on an
international cell phone, right?
Methos asks as he waits to see his luggage.
[Methos] A regular phone wouldn't work on a different country.
Nikki shoots a dirty look at Methos.
[Nikki] Noooo.....really? I did not know that.
Nikki says sarcastically as she gets into the line at the
Customs counter. She puts her cell phone away and takes her
passport out of her purse and gets it ready.
[Methos] Just checking.
Methos shrugs with a soft chuckle.
[center]***1 hour later***[/center]
Nikki steps off of the escalator and takes out her cell phone
again and searches for a signal.
Methos follows Nikki pushing the luggage cart keeping an eye on
the cases with their swords.
[Methos] Hmm, I'm glad to have this back, I feel naked without
my "antique".
[Nikki] Come on.....give me a signal.
Nikki mumbles holding her cell phone up and moving around in a
circle.
Methos side glances at his watch.
[Methos] Let's get some coffee, it's after 4 am and I assume
we're not going to sleep any time soon.
[Nikki] Lead the way.
Nikki says and hooks her arm through his as she still searches
for a signal.
[Methos] There used to be a nice place around here. Let's hope
it's open.
Nikki lets Methos lead her while she searches for a cell phone
signal.
Methos says looking around. Then he sees the small cafe he was
looking for.
[Methos] Ah, there.
Nikki diverts her attention away from her phone and looks in
the direction Methos is indicating.
[Nikki] Looks like they're open.
[Methos] Yes.
Methos nods as he moves that way. He stops near one of the
tables on the concourse.
[Methos] Want anything else besides coffee?
Nikki shakes her head.
[Nikki] No thank you.
Nikki says as she takes a seat at the table.
[Nikki] Do me a favor.
Nikki says as she flips her phone open again and see that she
has a signal.
[Methos] Yes?
Methos stops as he starts to sit down across from her.
[Nikki] Get us a room for the night and a rental car while I
make this call? Please?
Nikki asks as she dials a number.
[Methos] The rest of the night you mean.
Methos smiles, then nods before he resumes sitting down.
[Nikki] It may be 4 AM here but my body says it's only 8 PM.
Nikki says as she waits for her phone call to be answered. When
someone picks up on the other end she plugs her free ear with
her finger so she can hear better and turns slightly away.
[Nikki] It's Nikki. Sorry to wake you.
Nikki says into the phone.
[Nikki] We just cleared customs.
Nikki listens for a couple of seconds then grabs the paper
napkin under her silverware and searches for a pen.
[Nikki] Hang on.
Nikki says into the phone. Just then their waitress comes up to
their table and Nikki reaches up and steels the woman's pen off
of her tray before she has a chance to stop her.
[Nikki] Go ahead.
Methos orders two coffees then takes out his cell phone once the
waitress has gone.
Nikki begins jotting down notes on the napkin.
[Nikki] I WANT in that auction. How do I get in?
Methos flips his cell phone shut, taking a look at Nikki and
wondering what's going on.
Nikki asks the person on the other end of the phone. Her
expression has brightened and she is sort of smiling. She
listens for a few more seconds....jots down a couple more notes
and holds her hand up at Methos and mouths the words, "hang on."
[Nikki] Ok....yeah. What time does it start?
Methos thanks the waitress when she comes back with two coffee
cups and takes a sip still watching Nikki. He can't tell she's
up to something.
Nikki asks then listens for a few more seconds....nodding
silently.
[Nikki] Thanks.
Nikki says to Methos...covering the mouth piece of her phone and
taking a quick sip of the coffee.
[Nikki] And you are absolutely sure this information is right?
Nikki says into her phone.
[Nikki] No....I realize that. But I don't want to drive all that
way and have it turn out to be nothing.
Nikki says and listens a few seconds.
Methos frowns wondering who is she talking to.
[Nikki] No no. If you say you're sure I trust you. You know
what's at stake.
Nikki says and listens a couple more seconds.
[Nikki] Ok. Thanks for all you've done. And again...sorry about
waking you up.
Nikki listens a couple seconds then disconnects the call. She
takes another sip of her coffee and looks around for their
waitress. When she sees her she signals to the woman. She puts
the pen she had "borrowed" back on the waitress's tray when she
walks over to the table and thanks her.
[Nikki] We don't need the room after all.
Nikki tells Methos. Her green eyes have a renewed twinkle in
them.
[Methos] Care to tell me what's going on?
Methos asks curiously before he drinks some coffee.
Nikki takes another sip of her coffee and puts her cell phone
back in her purse. She picks up the napkin and quickly reviews
the information she has written on it.
[Nikki] Ok....it seems that our mystery guy is some sort of
trainer or foreman for a horse ranch in....of all
places.....Raheen.
Nikki explains while looking at her notes.
[Nikki] That's a small town....used to be a village....in
Killkenny County.
Methos frowns trying to make sense at what he's hearing.
[Methos] So that's where we're going, I assume.
Nikki shakes her head as she takes another sip of her coffee.
[Nikki] Not yet.
Nikki says and grins.
[Methos] So where are we going?
Methos asks as he keeps frowning at her.
[Nikki] It appears that there's a big horse auction in Killkenny
every year on St. Patty's day and the ranch our guy works for
will have a couple of their horses up for auction which means he
will most likely be there.
Nikki takes another sip of her coffee.
[Nikki] And so will I. My guy figured I would want to get into
that auction and already arranged everything I'll need to get
in.
[Methos] Hmm, public place, lots of people, I like it.
Methos nods smiling at Nikki.
[Nikki] Killkenny is about 70 miles from here. If we drive
straight there we should be there in enough time to get a room
and for me to freshen up before the auction starts.
Nikki says and takes some money out of the pocket of her purse
and slips it under her saucer for a tip. She gulps down the rest
of her coffee as she gets to her feet.
[Nikki] Come on....let's get going.
Nikki says excitedly
Methos empties the rest of his cup, then stands up shaking his
head.
[Methos] And then suddenly she's in a hurry.
Methos comments as he walks to the luggage cart.
Nikki looks around at the signs hanging from the terminal
ceiling. When she sees the ones indicating several different car
rental agencies she takes the lead and hurries in their
direction.
[Methos] Reserved a car on Hertz, and I'll have to cancel the
hotel reservation on the car.
Methos says pushing the luggage cart to where he knows Hertz is.
[Nikki] Ok. Hertz it is.
[Methos] A Land Rover, you don't know if you need to travel off
the road.
Nikki says and looks for the right sign. When she spots it she
heads for the Hertz counter.
[Nikki] A Land Rover?
Nikki says and shakes her head.
[Nikki] Anyone ever tell you that you are stuck in a rut?
Nikki asks teasingly. When they get to the Hertz area she lets
Methos take the lead.
[Methos] I don't mind being predictable in some things.
Methos shrugs following her.
[Methos] As long it's just in some things.
The attendant behind the counter looks up and says to Methos,
"welcome to Hertz Car Rental. May I help you?"
[Methos] Yes, I have reservation on a Land Rover. The name is
Pierson, Adam Pierson.
Methos tells the attendant, then he whispers to Nikki.
[Methos] I thought it was best not to mention Flynn around
anyway.
The attendant looks up the reservation in his computer and when
it shows up he prints out a contract. He highlights the places
that the man in front of him need to sign and sets it on the top
of the counter. Handing his customer a pen he says, "I need your
initials here....here....and here and your signature here. Will
you be needing insurance, Mr. Pierson?"
[Methos] Yes, I think it's better.
Methos nods with a smirk as he signs where he was told to.
[Methos] You never know what will happen.
The attendant hands him a pamphlet and instructs him to choose
one of the plans outlined in the pamphlet.
Nikki looks around at the people bustling through the terminal
as she waits.
[Methos] Hmm, better full cover, right?
Methos asks Nikki with a smile side glancing at her
"We have three Land Rovers that are ready. A red one, a
champagne one and a silver one."
Nikki nods in answer to Methos' question.
[Nikki] Absolutely NOT the silver one.
Nikki speaks up.
[Nikki] Too boring.
Nikki adds with a giggle.
Methos chooses one of the plans, signs and handles the paper
back to the attendant.
"Is this your first visit to Ireland?" The attendant asks as he
takes the contract from his customer.
Nikki shakes her head.
[Nikki] No....but it has been a while.
Nikki answers the attendant.
[Methos] Not the red one, it would call for too much attention.
Methos tells Nikki.
[Methos] Maybe the champagne one?
[Nikki] Fine.
Nikki says disappointedly.
The attendant enters some information into the computer then
looks up at Methos and asks, "which credit card will you be
using today, Mr. Pierson?"
[Methos] Visa.
Methos answers as he pulls out his wallet.
"So are you two on your honeymoon?" The attendant asks as he
waits for the credit card.
Nikki giggles and her cheeks blush.
[Methos] Oh yes.
Methos smirks at Nikki.
[Methos] Right, Mrs. Pierson?
Methos asks Nikki as he handles the credit card to the
attendant.
Nikki blinks surprised at Methos' answer but she simply nods and
quickly turns away. When her face can't be seen by the attendant
she covers her mouth to stifle another giggle.
The attendant takes Methos' credit card and says, "Ireland is a
magical place for newly weds."
[Methos] Yes, we've heard that, that's why we're here for.
Methos manages to keep a straight face while he says that.
The attendant proceeds to enter the information off of the
credit card into the computer and when he has finished he prints
out the receipt which he places on the counter top and hands
Methos the pen so that he can sign it.
Methos sighs as he makes yet another signature.
[Methos] Anything else you need me to sign?
Methos asks slightly exasperated, he wanted to finish paperwork
and get moving.
"No, sir. That's the last one," the attendant says and holds out
a set of keys. "Your car will be brought up in a couple of
minutes. You can pick it up at the curb," he says pointing to
the doors behind them.
[Methos] Thank you.
Methos nods at the attendant as he picks the keys.
"You're more than welcome. Have a wonderful honeymoon and Happy
St. Patrick's Day, Mr & Mrs Pierson," the attendant says as he
presses a button on the counter that will summon the lot
attendant to bring the car up.
[Nikki] Thank you.
Nikki says to the attendant with a smile. She turns around and
starts to walk towards the doors.
[Methos] Come on, Mrs. Pierson. Let's wait outside.
Methos smirks at Nikki when he turns to push to luggage cart.
When they are out of earshot of the car rental attendant, Nikki
pinches Methos in the side.
[Nikki] You could have warned me. I almost lost it back there.
Nikki says giggling.
[Methos] Well, the attendant was being too curious so I played
along with him.
Methos shrugs chuckling softly.
[Methos] I hope it didn't shock you too much... Mrs. Pierson.
Methos adds after a moment.
Nikki has to stifle her desire to break into laughter because
their rental car pulls up to the curb. As the attendant loads
their baggage into the back of the car and she gets into the
passenger seat she wonders just how Mrs. Adam Pierson would act.
Methos thanks the attendant after he'd finished loading the
luggage and gets inside the car.
[Methos] So are we ready to go?
Methos asks retraining himself to tease her again and call her
Mrs. Pierson.
Nikki buckles her seat belt and nods her head.
[Nikki] To Killkenny, husband.
Nikki says and grins.
[Methos] As you wish, wife.
Methos chuckles amused as he starts the car and drives out of
the parking lot.
[center]To be continued[/center]
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