The Unexpected III

June 11, 2006

Everyone in the lobby of the 27th Precinct stopped what they were doing and turned to watch as Dee and Ryo entered the building. Some started to applaud. Ryo shook his head, as he looked over to his husband. Dee was dressed in a long lightweight sleeveless shirt over a pair of black cargo pants. Whenever he did not have to dress up a little more, or wear a suit, he took to cargo pants with a long loose top. Dee’s sunglasses were still on. Basking in the attention, he started to strut – or attempted to as much as he could in his condition. He grinned as they walked through.

Janet came running over to Dee. “It’s amazing how you can make so much media by being away,” she gushed. “You too, Ryo.”

“Apparently we missed a lot,” Ryo commented. He continued to walk toward the elevator. Dee fell in next to him and Janet on his other side.

“You’re in early,” Hernandez said, also coming over to join them. “It’s not even noon. I’m about to go find my partner and grab some lunch.”

“Yeah,” Janet said. “I thought you boys had the 4 – 1 shift this week. Or for Dee, 4 – 10.”

“With everything that went on, Chief asked if we can come in earlier to get a rundown,” Ryo explained. “We got back into town late last night.”

“Those of us doing patrol had our hands full on Friday night,” Hernandez remarked.

“I hear patrol has been doubled for now,” Dee commented. “At least I heard that on the news.” They stopped before the elevator. Dee watched as Ryo pushed the button, then glanced up and noted the location of the elevator.

“Yeah,” Janet agreed. “So far nothing serious. Just making sure a few gatherings stayed peaceful, but the atmosphere is strange in the city. Pro-Carrier groups came out in force to protest McFadden getting off light. The anti-Carrier groups came out to protest the Pro-Carrier groups. Then Richard managed to get news time with that theory of his. His arrest caused more unease.”

Dee frowned slightly. “It’s scary that there are people who are looking to jump on Richard’s bandwagon.”

Hernandez rolled his eyes. “That smug son of a bitch said that jail won’t stop him from spreading the truth about Carriers.”

“Oh yes, we saw that. On-screen arrest,” Dee said. “I’ll have to admit that had to be Rose’s finest moment,” he chuckled. His look turned serious. “Still don’t know how that came to be, but as we said, that’s one of the reasons we’re here now.”

The elevator opened.

“Well, that’s my cue to locate where the hell Ferguson disappeared to so we can get some lunch,” Hernandez commented. “I’ll see you again before I get out of here this afternoon.”

“Stay safe out there,” Ryo said to him. “You too, Janet.”

“We’ll be fine,” Janet assured Ryo. “Later!” She walked away with Hernandez, already starting to talk his ear off about something.

Despite the rookie cop’s shaky start at the 27th Precinct, once he got to know Dee and Ryo, it was hard to believe that he once had trouble with Dee.

“Let’s hope Ferguson shows up to rescue him,” Ryo chuckled as they got into the elevator.

“No kidding. That woman can talk when she wants to.”

“Even when she doesn’t,” Ryo quipped.


~+~ ~+~ ~+~

The Chief looked up from his desk. “Commissioner Rose sends his apologies for not being present, but he is working with Diana’s unit and the mayor’s office on damage repair from what that asshole started.”

“Would that asshole be Richard?” Dee asked. He was leaning back in a chair before the Chief’s desk, with Ryo sitting next to him.

“You know your assholes well, Dee,” Chief said with a grimace.

A soft chuckle came from Dee’s left, followed immediately by Ryo covering his mouth and coughing.

Composing himself, Ryo glanced up at Chief Smith. “I take it we’re going to find out how the collar came about.”

Chief gave him a scary smile. “He gave us a trail. Apparently, according to patterns, he acts rashly when he does not get his way. According to George Walter’s confession, their benefactor was the cause for the threat to get Dee off the force.”

“What did he do this time?” Dee asked, the Chief holding his interest.

“Friday morning, he went to speak with Mayor Blum. No matter how many years McFadden got, her sentencing was a loss for him. Theory is that’s why he set up that first conference of his “Carriers Are From the Stars” theory, to put it mildly.

“More like “Carriers Are Alien Threat”, Ryo mumbled.

“Gee, somebody call the Doctor,” Dee quipped sarcastically, referencing one of their favorite TV shows from Britain.

Ryo started to laugh. Dee looked at Ryo and laughed too.

“Gentlemen please. This is serious.”

“Sorry, Chief,” Ryo apologized, glancing at Dee. “I wasn’t expecting him to comment on a certain TV show.”

“I wasn’t expecting it either, but it fit.” Dee shrugged. “Anyway, so he picked Friday for his idiotic conference to spread the so-called truth about Carriers for a reason….”

Chief Smith grumped, frowning at them a moment, before moving around a paper from a pile set in front of him. “Yes. He lost his way of having Carriers killed. So now he’s set on his next plan. We managed to get him and McFadden in the same interrogation room. It seemed to piss him off and while he’s not signing any confessions, what we have on tape is enough to incriminate him.”

“Great. But how did… whoever find out it was him?” Ryo asked.

“As I said, he went to speak to Mayor Blum. He had the balls to tell her she needed to take away all Carriers rights, and to consider taking further and more drastic measures. Of course our fine mayor was not hearing any of it. She told him he was being ridiculous and to stop wasting her time. He started to spew his bullshit about how ETs were responsible for the Carrier Project. But you probably already know about that.”

Dee and Ryo grinned. “Yeah, we do,” Dee agreed, looking amused. “Along with the on-screen arrest.” What Dee did not say was that they had seen the rest of the arrest when they woke up that morning. He had agreed with Ryo not to mention it unless they had to, but when Ryo checked his email that morning, he found something from Elena, along with a private download link. His aunt was busy Friday night. She had gotten a press pass to Richard’s conference, intending to film and later use it against him. Or, at the least, to use it in a documentary on the struggles Carriers still face. She had continued to roll her small digital recorder until Richard had been escorted out of the room.

“The mayor had security escort him out. There was a slight struggle. That’s when the mayor noticed that something had fallen out of his pocket. So she picked it up, and called the Commissioner to come get it. It was a business card with a phone number handwritten on the back.”

“It panned out to…?” Ryo asked.

“McFadden’s business number. Rose got Diana’s FBI unit involved. They interviewed the employees of Carriers Inc., got a few guessed call times and went through the phone logs for Carriers Inc. Between our men and the FBI, we were able to obtain enough information that the mayor stepped in and used her power to give us a warrant to arrest him. Which is why she was with us when we made the collar.”

“That was remarkable. We were surprised when we watched it. Definitely called for a celebration dinner,” Ryo stated. “Grilled, of course.”

“Apparently the FBI had been silently investigating him in the last few weeks, because of suspicious behavior, along with unauthorized use of FBI computers. There were attempts to wipe out the evidence,” Chief added when he saw Dee’s look, clearly saying What type of idiot was he?. “He wasn’t as good at cleaning up his hacking as he thought. Which is now leading to his second charges.”

“There’s more?” Ryo sounded surprised and yet it was easy to hear his enjoyment of the briefing.

“There’s more,” Chief agreed. He handed a printed paper to Dee.

Dee took it and quickly read it. He looked up at the Chief. “He stole whatever information he has from government files. And yes, he also did some bad hacking there, too. Which is why he couldn’t cover his cyber footprints.” Dee looked at Ryo. “It was among some dead files.”

“The FBI is keeping a copy of whatever Statler managed to steal. Diana said to tell you boys that it’s on the joint secure network. It was determined that we want no surprises, so anyone who could potentially be involved, needs to read the file.” Chief Smith leaned forward, his arms resting on the desk surface. “No one involved is making any judgment based on it. That’s not our job. Our job is to make sure Carriers continue to be safe.”

“How bad is it?” Ryo had to ask.

A harsh laugh came from the Chief. “A bunch of sci-fi mumble jumbo. No one with any common sense is going to believe it.”

“Which means there are still Anti-Carriers out there who will believe it,” Dee said, his tone flat. While the quip was in his words, there was no humor in his voice or his face.

“But with Richard now in jail,” Ryo started, then gave the Chief a questioning look. “He is still in jail, is he?”

“Yes. No bail.”

“Then no more of those conventions and spreading the word,” Ryo concluded.

“Unfortunately, that’s a no. He has others in his organization, others who have seen the files and most likely have copies of it. He did not give up any names, but we have faces of those who were there Friday. The FBI is working on it, along with members of the press who have footage.” The Chief’s eyes met Ryo’s, as if he knew who was there that evening, but was not going to bring it up. “There’s no way to stop them from talking, as long as no one else gets hurt.”

“Except when the next Carrier gets killed because he’s ‘alien scum’, right?” Dee asked, looking down.

“Richard’s crew will be monitored to make sure there are no more activities such as his involvement with Carriers Inc.”

“What about the individual, Chief?” Dee wanted to know. “What about the moron who takes what they have to say to heart and decides to go out alien hunting? What then?”

Chief sighed heavily. “We find that moron. I’m sorry, Dee. Even if we had the legal right to stop them, there’s no way to stop it. You should know that. It’s already starting to make its way across the internet. That’s part of your job for the next few weeks. Find any website, forum or profile that uses any part of what’s in the file, even if paraphrasing. Log them, just in case. Work with Computer Crimes. The Commissioner had already tasked them to work with our unit on this. It’s the best we can do, Dee.”

“It’s not you, Chief,” Ryo assured his superior, resting a comforting hand on Dee’s shoulder. “It’s just frustrating.”

“I hate the thought of some poor Carrier being injured or killed because someone believes Carriers aren’t human and needs to be wiped off the face of the Earth,” Chief admitted. “But right now they have the Fifth Amendment protecting them from talking.”

Both men sitting before Chief’s desk fell silent. Ryo’s hand moved from Dee’s shoulder to take his hand in his.

“There is some good news, gentlemen. At least for the city and state of New York, Carriers will not lose any ground they claimed. In fact, there is a good chance that more rights and protections will be set in place for New York City.” The Chief waited until both heads lifted. Silently, his two leading detectives regarded him. “I’m sure you also caught Mayor Blum’s press conference, announcing her son Gilbert is pregnant and planning to marry the other father of his baby.”

Dee nodded, remembering the phone call he received from the mayor’s son. “I have faith in her. Especially with a son like Gilbert,” he said.

Chief Smith looked amused. “The Commissioner said a little bird over at City Hall told him you received a phone call from Gilbert Blum, Dee.”

Dee nodded. “Yeah. He told me not to say anything until after his mother got to make her speech.”

“Then I guess the special courier delivery I got this morning won’t be a surprise to you then. Correct, Dee?”

Ryo looked intrigued, his eyes checking the surface of the desk. Dee nodded again.

The Chief moved some of the papers from the pile that was still before him and lifted an envelope. Even from across the desk, it looked official to Ryo and Dee. Chief held it out to Dee. “It’s addressed to you, Dee.”

“Thank you, sir,” Dee said, leaning forward to accept the envelope. As he sat back, he started to rub his swell, making a face.

“Okay Dee?” the Chief asked.

“Yeah. The baby doesn’t seem to like me bending forward like that sitting like this, I guess. It’s fine. I get more worried when I don’t feel her moving.” He gave the Chief a weak smile.

“I understand. The wife used to get all crazy when she didn’t feel the baby moving for a few hours. And when she finally did, she almost collapsed with relief.” He smiled kindly at Dee.

“It’s just lately she feels like she’s been running like a hamster on speed in one of those wheels.” Dee pointed to his bump. “And here’s the wheel.”

Ryo laughed, welcoming the chance to break the tense atmosphere. “Well, open it,” Ryo urged his husband.

Opening the envelope, Dee pulled out an invitation. He read it silently. He gave Chief Smith a quick glance before giving Ryo his attention. “We’ve been invited to Gracie Mansion for dinner with the mayor’s family on Wednesday evening.” Smiling, he handed the invitation to Ryo.

Reading the invitation, he was amused to see it was to Dee Laytner-MacLean and husband. He felt pride for his husband, having earned the invitation for being himself and the work he had done, rather than through Ryo’s family. There was an insert, heavy paper with a handwritten message stating that his son and mother were also invited to join them.

“We’ll make sure you’ll make the dinner,” Chief informed Dee. “I think we can justify it as business, so that will be included in your shift that day. Good thing you’re working second shift this week.”

“Thank you, Chief.”

The Chief continued to bring the two detectives up to par of what had gone on during their time off, including updating them on Caully’s status. His mother was taken in on Saturday morning for endangering his life. They got a confession from her that all she wanted was to get rid of the baby. She had ended up refusing her son from getting medical treatment, following misinformed advice that the aborted fetus would flush itself out. She was afraid that if her son received medical treatment, they would discover it was not just a random spontaneous abortion. Caully was currently undergoing grief counseling. Dee made a note to make time that day to go talk to Caully. It was important that the boy did not feel deserted. When they left the office, Ryo carried several folders.

Ryo did not get much of a chance to go over the folders, or contemplate when to read the stolen file on the Carrier Project. He was sent out on a call where someone’s car was defiled with anti-Carrier graffiti.

While Ryo was out, Dee received another call from Gilbert. They ended up talking for an hour, the topics going from Carrier Rights to personal information about each other and their significant others. Dee had set a tentative time for Friday night for the double date with the mayor’s son and his fiancé. As he hung up the phone, Dee felt the start of a new friendship. He really liked the young man, and it had nothing to do with his being the mayor’s son. It did help that some of his thoughts and ideas might have a chance to go into action through the young man, with assistance of his mother, who was willing to make changes in the city. He found he was looking forward to Friday night. Before he had agreed on a firm day and time, he did call Ryo on his cell, quickly asking it if was fine with him. Gilbert thought that was wonderful of Dee to double check with his husband, admitting that his own fiancé would find out in the afternoon.

They also had agreed to meet later that evening in Central Park and attend the candlelight vigil together. Dee was warned that he and Ryo would most likely end up standing with the mayor and her family. They discussed the possibility of grabbing a quick bite to eat after the ceremony.

~+~ ~+~ ~+~

Dee and Gilbert, along with their significant others, met at 72nd Street and Central Park West just outside the entrance to the park. Both couples arrived early. Dee and Ryo returned from seeing Caully, leaving the young man knowing he could always reach out to Dee for support. Ryo had called in when they left him, and Chief told them they should grab something to eat, and head over to Central Park. He added that they were off duty once the vigil ended.

The two couples hit it off immediately. Both Dee and Ryo liked Gilbert and his intended. Much like his mother, Gilbert was down to earth, despite his status. When they finally arrived at Strawberry Field, Dee and Ryo were invited to join the mayor’s family during the vigil. The two detectives were pleased to see not far away, the rest of their unit, along with Diana’s FBI unit. Rose and Diana had joined the mayor’s group. The Commissioner looked pleased when he first noticed Dee and Ryo among the group. Dee and Gilbert were in conversation, animatedly talking with their hands. Ryo and Tony, Gilbert’s fiancé, were also in discussion on something.

Diana smirked as they approached the group. “Seems Dee is making friends in high places,” she observed to Rose.

“This is surprising. I know Dee was the one, along with Ryo, to be invited to speak to the mayor this week. I also know Dee can be friendly, but I see a friendship there,” Rose said.

“I suspect it had nothing to do with Ryo being a MacLean,” Diana said with a laugh. “I do believe Dee managed this on his own.”

Rose shook his head. “That is the scary part,” he said, having to agree.

The couple joined the group, exchanging pleasantries first to the mayor and her husband, and then to the others. A few minutes later, silence fell around the field – an amazing feat given the large number of people who turned out. Candles were passed out, and the ceremony started with the lighting of the candles in memory of those Carriers and their unborn children who were murdered by Carriers Inc.

Speeches were made by officials, starting with Mayor Blum, followed by tales of the Carriers’ lives shared by family and friends. Dee and Ryo found themselves doing an impromptu speech. Two hours later, there was not a dry eye as the candles were extinguished and the vigil came to a close.

Mayor Blum and Gilbert once again conferred with the anguished families and friends. Gilbert managed to pull Dee and Ryo in, the two detectives finding themselves once again offering their condolences. Unlike when they were on duty months ago, they found themselves hugging family members. Female family members rubbed Dee’s obviously pregnant belly, giving their best wishes. Before the families started to leave, Dee and Ryo found themselves greeting their own family. Bikky and Carol were there with their youth group. Vince and David came over to say hello and found themselves being introduced to Gilbert and Tony, who then introduced the MOP and his husband to his mother and father. Mother and Father Pat were hugging the families of the killed Carriers before going to Dee and Ryo. Elena and Rick, joined by Estelle and Franklin, came over to them. Elena explained that she was currently working on a new documentary on Carriers and the fight for the right to be accepted. Estelle hugged Dee, exclaiming how proud the elder MacLeans were of him. After they said hello to Ryo, then went over to talk to the mayor, surprised that their grandson and his husband already seemed to have an in with the first family of New York City. Dee and Ryo passed on a ride home by Elena and Rick, explaining they had plans for the rest of the evening. They assured Bikky that they would be home in a couple of hours, before sending him and Carol off with Ryo’s aunt and uncle.

After bidding good night to their families, the four men made their way along the paths toward the roadway going through the park and would let them out at 66th Street and Central Park West. They were all emotionally spent, particularly Dee, but they decided to head over to a posh café nearby for a snack before calling it a night.

Gilbert offered Dee and Ryo a ride home in his car, which Ryo gratefully accepted.

Bikky was finishing up his homework when they arrived home. Dee paused to speak with Bikky a little, before excusing himself to take a bath, planning to head to bed after.

Ryo made himself a cup of coffee and some tea, which he took into the bathroom to give Dee. Dee looked grateful. Smiling tenderly, Ryo kissed his husband, somehow avoiding being pulled into the tub with Dee while fully dressed and went out to join Bikky in the living room for a while.

“So you and Dee are hanging out with the big people now,” the teen casually commented.

Ryo grinned slightly. “No, we’re not going to start living like your great-grandparents, if that’s what you’re thinking.” Ryo sat on the floor, leaning back against the couch, sipping his coffee. “The mayor’s son wants to get to know Dee. I think it’s because Gilbert Blum is a public figure and, at least for now, so is Dee. He thinks Dee has the experience to offer advice.” Ryo shrugged, smiling. “Turns out both he and his fiancé, Tony, are good people and we have a lot in common. So I guess it looks like we have the mayor’s son as a new friend.”

Bikky gazed up at Ryo.

“What Biks?” Ryo asked, putting his mug down on a coaster on the end table. “What are you up to?”

“What you said about living like your grandparents. I wouldn’t mind if we had a big house,” Bikky said. “Like Lai has.”

Ryo chuckled and ruffled the dark skinned boy’s blond hair. “I’m sure you would. But Dee and I already decided we’re maintaining our standard of living based on what is in our bank account. So you better enjoy the extras you get once in a while because of my grandparents.”

“Well, I wouldn’t mind it. Just in case.” Bikky laughed at Ryo’s face. It was his turn to make a face when Ryo hugged him, kissing his forehead.

Ryo finished his coffee and stood up. “I’m calling it a night too. Don’t stay up too late, Biks. And don’t make a mess,” he warned.

“G’night, Ryo.”

“Night Bikky. Love you, son.”

“Yeah, yeah. Love you too. Now scat before pervman gets lonely. And you know when he’s lonely, he’s also cranky.”

“I think I should make sure Dee didn’t fall asleep in the tub. He’s beat from tonight. So we’ll be quiet tonight.” He winked at his son.

“Lalalala…..”

Ryo laughed as he made a quick trip to the kitchen, rinsing his cup and putting it away. He went to the back hallway, deciding to enter their bedroom suite from the bathroom, concluding it would be a good idea to check on Dee. Maybe even join him for a soak before getting Dee in bed. He was thankful they had second shift and could sleep in the next morning.

~+~ ~+~ ~+~

June 12, 2006

“I’m sorry we’re running a little late,” Ryo apologized as he entered the squad room in a hurry.

Dee was behind him, taking his time, mostly because he could no longer walk in the long strides he was used to before getting pregnant. He paused to lean against the doorframe and catch his breath.

“That’s okay, Ryo. It’s obvious why,” Drake replied with a smirk. The blond detective was gathering some files and getting ready to leave for the evening. “You okay, Dee?” he asked.

Dee nodded as he pushed himself away from the frame. “Had to catch my breath for a moment. Happens now and then, but as long as it passes, no big deal.” He rolled his eyes. “So I keep being told.”

Ryo grinned and winked. “At least you’re not so quick to jump up and go running out of here with the rest of us.”

“Shut up,” Dee grumbled. He sat down at Marty’s desk. “I guess we missed Ted and Marty already, huh?”

“Marty has to go to his in-laws for dinner tonight, and you know the Mrs. when he’s late for such things,” Drake replied with a chuckle. “Ted has a date. That dog picked someone up last night during the vigil. You’re lucky you’re on second today. He didn’t shut up about it all freakin’ day long.”

Ryo laughed as Dee sighed heavily. “Worse thing is that’s not as bad as he’ll moan when she dumps his ass,” Dee commented.

“Dee, that’s not nice,” Ryo chastised him. “Ted’s bound to find a nice girl that’s a keeper. Eventually.”

Drake laughed at Ryo. “If she’s a keeper for Ted, then she won’t be a nice girl.”

“Agreed,” came from Dee. He was leaning back in the chair, rubbing his swell, looking amused.

Ryo looked from Drake to Dee. Leaning against Marty’s desk, he said, “Fine. Point taken. How about one day he’ll find a girl who will want to put up with him?”

Dee and Drake shared a look and broke out in laughter. Ryo glared for a second or two before joining them.

“What’s so funny?” JJ asked from the doorway.

“Ted,” Drake informed his partner.

“Oh, you were telling them about his date tonight, huh?” JJ bounded into the office, carrying some folders, which he set on his desk. He pointed to them. “Dee, we’re going to need a new database for the cold cases.”

“I know,” Dee said with a nod. “I’ve been drafting up a design that we’ll go over hopefully sometime this week. Make sure I’m not leaving anything out or if there’s something I’m not thinking of. I have a started database just to log in pertinent information. For now, just keep getting the files to me. Boxes surrounding my desk don’t scare me.”

“Yeah sure,” Drake quipped as JJ and Ryo laughed.

“Yet I’m the one who keeps tripping over them,” Ryo said, attempting a glare at Dee, but failing that time.

“So did you spend your day doing anything interesting?” JJ asked.

“That’s why Dee looks a little peaked right now. I’m afraid we overdid it, but we only realized it when it was time to get ready for work,” Ryo explained.

“We have wall covering for the nursery that Barry will be picking up for us tomorrow,” Dee replied. “Along with supplies so he could make a better closet in the baby’s room.”

“What’s wrong with the one you have now?” Drake asked.

“We’ve having shelves put in along three walls. More like one of those organizers. That way we won’t have too much blocking the nursery except what we’ll need at hand,” Ryo explained, a soft look on his face.

JJ noted that in the last month, Ryo always got that look when talk turned to plans for the baby. He was jealous of his two friends, but he knew as much as he wanted a baby of his own, first he needed to concentrate on his relationship with Drake, and getting it to the point where they could talk about such things as marriage and babies. Drake was still coming to terms with having a male lover. He seemed to tiptoe around that area of their relationship, so it was not with much frequency they made love. At least when they did, Drake seemed to forget all about how weird it seemed to him when he was wrapped in the throes of passion. JJ was willing to wait and do whatever he could in support, because he knew Drake really did love him. His lover had no problem telling him so. In fact, there seemed to be no problem with spending an evening on the couch, sharing kisses and caresses. That was what kept JJ from going mad with frustration over the sexual side of things. When they did it, it was fabulous, and in between JJ had no doubt where he stood with Drake.

“What are you thinking about, JJ?” Dee asked with an amused grin.

“What? Oh… nothing,” JJ lied.

“Bullshit,” Dee said. “You’re blushing. It has to be good.”

Drake gazed at JJ, seeming to figure out what JJ was thinking about.

“And none of your business,” JJ snapped.

“Then take that blushing where we can’t see it,” Ryo said, noticing that Drake was suddenly looking uncomfortable. “You too, Drake. But now I think Dee and I can figure it out.” He chuckled warmly.

“You’re one to talk about blushing,” Drake commented, now looking uncomfortable and annoyed.

“Exactly. I know, Drake.” Ryo raised an eyebrow.

Dee started to laugh more.

The door slammed open, causing the three men to look toward the door. Chief Smith loomed in the doorway, breathing hard. “What’s going on here, you clowns?” he demanded.

“Nothing, Chief. I was just getting ready to call it a night, and leave my partner in Dee and Ryo’s capable hands for tonight.”

Ryo and Dee shared a sly grin. “No thanks, Drake,” Dee said, leaning forward in the chair, “but Ryo and I aren’t into threesomes.”

“Dee! For goodness sake!” Chief roared.

“You know what I mean,” Drake said hotly. “Look I’m out of here.”

“No you’re not.”

“But Chief!” Drake started to protest.

“Not right now. Since you’re here, you might as well hear this too.”

Ryo pushed away from the desk and gave Chief his full attention. “What’s going on, Chief?”

“Taylor McFadden,” Chief Smith started, “was killed in prison earlier this afternoon.”

The four detectives shared a look of disbelief. Dee was the first to shake himself from the news. “Good for her. I’m sorry she got out of serving justice that easily, but I can’t say I feel bad about it.”

“Same here,” JJ agreed.

“Me too,” came from Ryo.

“What they said,” Drake added.

“It’s nothing to really concern ourselves with right now,” Chief Smith said, also appearing to agree with his detectives. “Inside job from the reports I received. Women who were appalled that she could so easily kill unborns, no matter if it was a mother or father carrying them. Looks like the inmates had a little help from one of the Corrections Officers, too. They’re investigating the matter, and justice will be served to those involved. You should be aware of that.”

“Yes sir,” Ryo said, his voice bitter. “This is the part that really sucks about this job. And I’m glad we’ll have nothing to do with this.”

“I understand, Randy. But the law is the law. Taylor McFadden was murdered – in cold blood. Justice must be given to those who took the law into their own hands. Even if I agree with you this time. I’m going to be here another half hour, in case you get to going over today’s reports in that time. If not, just leave them in my box before you leave tonight. I hope you have an easy shift, gentlemen.”

His eyes shifted to Dee, studying the man sitting at Marty’s desk, and looking tired. “Dee, you look exhausted. Half shift tonight. Get out of here at eight.”

Dee shook his head. “I’m fine, Chief. Besides, it’s our fault. Ryo and I ended up losing track of time while we were out and about for things preparing for the baby.”

“Still leave at eight. Ryo and JJ can handle things, Ted is on recall tonight, along with anyone from Diana’s unit.” Chief turned his attention to Ryo. “And tomorrow, don’t push Dee so hard. I know you’re both anxious to get ready for the baby, but use a little common sense concerning Dee.”

“Yes sir. Sorry, Chief.” Ryo blushed slightly.

Dee waved the Chief’s recrimination at Ryo off. “My fault, Chief. It would have been okay if it was just things for the nursery. But I got it in my head to also look at cars today, and wasn’t taking no for an answer from Ryo. The good news is we found something we liked, and will be picking it up on Thursday.”

“You bought a car?” JJ asked amazed.

“Actually we bought a mini-van,” Ryo corrected with a satisfied grin.

“Mini-van?” JJ sputtered.

“Thought you were looking at sedans?” Drake asked, chuckling at JJ’s reaction.

“I thought you boys were getting a vehicle closer to Dee’s due date?” Chief Smith crossed his arms.

“We changed our minds,” Dee stated, answering all three questions with one answer.

“Why would you choose a mini-van?” JJ asked.

“No kidding,” Drake agreed. He leaned back in his seat, waiting for his friends to explain themselves.

Chief Smith folded his arms, regarding the two detectives, while Dee and Ryo looked on in amusement. They knew the Chief was going to answer for them.

“Because of the kids, you boneheads.” Chief did not disappoint the expectant fathers-to-be.

“It’s just one little baby,” Drake drawled out, confused.

JJ looked at Drake, then to Dee. “Dude,” he said to Drake, “do you see how big Dee is? That’s not a little baby.”

Dee’s grin was replaced with a scowl. Ryo could not help but laugh as he watched Dee’s face.

“Calm down, Dee. He’s right. Our Koko is not going to be one of those itty-bits.” He smiled softly at Dee. “She’s going to be a nice big healthy baby.” His smile grew when Dee grinned up at him, hand resting on his swell.

“It’s still just a baby,” Drake commented.

“And Bikky,” Dee snapped, still grumpy at JJ’s remark despite Ryo’s assurance. His husband was allowed to get away with things like that, but no one else. “And lots of times we also have Carol with us.”

“We thought about it and figured with an eight-passenger van, there would still be room if we’re all in it,” Ryo reasoned.

“Sensible,” Chief agreed. “Oh, and Adams, sometimes even with one little baby, a van would be a better idea than a fancy little European sports car.”

JJ paled as if the thought never occurred to him that should he ever get pregnant, he might have to give up his car. “Well, there’s still time for that,” he remarked. “After all, I can’t be having babies on my own, you know.”

“So what did you two settle on?” Chief Smith asked.

“Town & Country,” Ryo replied.

“Brand new,” Dee added, excitement shining in green eyes.

“Good luck with it, boys,” Chief said. “And I’m done here. Dee, Ryo, reports in a half hour, if possible. Good night.”

“Yes sir,” Ryo replied.

Chief Smith started to leave the office when Ferguson appeared in the doorway. “Sorry to interrupt,” he said, his voice shaky.

“What do you want?” Chief demanded.

The uniformed patrolman held up a sealed envelope. “Janet asked me to deliver this to JJ. Her exact words were, For JJ’s eyes only.”

The Chief took the envelope from him and tossed it toward JJ. “Don’t forget to check with me first before firming anything concerning the baby shower,” he commented.

JJ looked horrified, while Ryo and Dee blushed and Drake laughed.

“Oh, come on now. Those two have been here long enough to know there’s going to be a shower,” Chief said to JJ, looking amused. He turned to Ryo and Dee. “And you two, you’re not going to escape it. So get used to the idea.”

Ryo started to reply to the Chief, but got a good look at Ferguson, realizing the other man’s eyes looked red. “Hey Sean,” Ryo called out. “What’s the matter?”

Ferguson shrugged, looking uncomfortable. “Got word this afternoon that my sister took ill, and it doesn’t look good. But being she’s out of state, there’s not much I can do, but wish for the best.”

“If you need to take emergency leave, and your dumbass Sergeant isn’t helping, let me know and I’ll speak to Commissioner Rose,” Chief offered. “You’ve helped my units out enough. I can do the same for you.”

“Thank you, Chief Smith, but I’m not sure yet.”

“You’re at end of shift, so get out of here and figure out what you need to do.”

Ferguson nodded. “Good night, Chief. Night everyone.”

The four men waved as Ferguson left, with the Chief behind him.

“On that note, I’m outta here, too,” Drake said, standing up. “JJ, give me a call when you’re ready to leave. Don’t worry about waking me.”

“Will do,” JJ said, smiling up at Drake, an expectant look on his face.

Drake smiled back, winked and left the office.

JJ sighed heavily, shaking his head sadly. “It’s not like you two don’t know.”

“Give him time, JJ,” Ryo assured him. “Are you going to his place tonight?”

“No. He’s going to be at mine tonight.” JJ gave Ryo a small sad smile. “I know you’re right. And I should be thankful that he’ll be there waiting for me when I get home. But sometimes it still hurts. I wasn’t expecting him to kiss me, but he could have said something else besides…. Nevermind. Forget it. Let me see what Janet has planned for the baby shower. And don’t worry. Marty’s in on it too. That way it won’t end up being too fru fru.”

Ryo chuckled. “I guess it’s inevitable. But please, no surprise showers. Make sure Janet understands that. Dee’s not up to too many surprises these days. And honestly, I can’t blame him.”

“I promise.”

Dee stood up and stretched. “I’ll make you a deal. As long as it’s not a surprise shower, I don’t care what you and Janet come up with for decorations. I’ll even be a good sport and play some of those silly games they have at showers.” He winked at JJ with a grin.

“Right,” Ryo commented with a snort. “He says that now. But we’ll see what mood he’s in by day of the shower.” He laughed at JJ’s face. “Whatever you two come up with, I’m sure it’ll be great. Besides, it’s the thought that counts. Right Dee?”

“Definitely. Alrighty, I’m going to get myself comfortable in our office and get to work,” Dee said. “The sooner we get the new databases in order, the easier it will be for all of us.”

“Well, give me a call if you need me to run down and locate more cold cases,” JJ said, watching as Ryo started to follow Dee.

“Yeah yeah,” came from Dee as he went into the office.

“When you’re done with all the shower planning, if you like, feel free to join us in the office. No reason for you to be sitting out here all alone,” Ryo offered.

“I think I will. Thanks, Ryo.”

~+~ ~+~ ~+~

“Dee,” Ryo said, glancing at the time. “It’s going on eight. You should be getting ready to leave.”

Dee looked up from his computer. “What if I don’t want to?” he asked. “Bikky’s out with Lai and Lass tonight, meaning he won’t be home until the very last second of his curfew, if that. And I’m not in the mood to sit around the house alone.”

Ryo stood up from his desk and walked across the office to stop by Dee’s desk. “How about eating some dinner, and then going to bed?” When he saw Dee started to shake his head, he added, “I know you think you’re not tired now, but I’ll bet by the time you get home, you’ll feel otherwise.” He leaned close to Dee, running a finger along the pregnant detective’s arm. “Besides, if you get some sleep before I get home, maybe we can have a little fun when I get there. If you’re up to it, that is.”

Dee’s grin grew. “That sounds intriguing. Hopefully I will be up to it.”

“Well, you won’t be if you try to work all night,” Ryo countered.

“Yeah. Okay. You make a good point. Just let me finish inputting this one file and I’ll get out of here.”

“Thank you.” Ryo bent over to give Dee a lingering kiss. “There’s more where that came from later tonight.”

Dee licked his lips, gazing up at Ryo through long dark lashes. “There better be.”

A few minutes later, Dee was gathering his things to leave when the phone rang. Ryo immediately picked up the line at his desk and answered.

Dee paused, watching as Ryo turned pale. His eyes went wide when Ryo fell back in his seat, and appeared to look upset. Dee’s stomach started to tie in knots, as he started to envision horrible things that could have happened to their son. Ryo hung up the phone with a slam and looked up miserably at Dee.

“What’s wrong?” Dee asked, rushing over to Ryo’s side.

“Dee, sit down,” Ryo demanded, standing up and pushing Dee into his chair.

“I-is it Bikky?” Dee asked, his voice shaking.

“What?” Realization struck Ryo and he grasped Dee’s hand. “No. Not Bikky. He’s fine. I guess. I didn’t mean to scare you, Dee.”

“Then what is it?”

JJ chose that moment to burst into their office. “Ryo, come on. We have a call.”

“I know,” Ryo said. “I’m just about to tell Dee the news.”

“What happened?” Dee insisted, becoming frantic.

“They found a body in Fort Tryon Park,” Ryo explained, visibly attempting to pull himself together. “Near the Cloisters.” Ryo grasped Dee’s hand tighter. “Dee, it’s the same MO as Carriers Inc.”

Dee’s mouth dropped open. “Copy cat maybe?” he asked.

“I don’t know.” Ryo took a deep shuddering breath. “There’s more.”

“What?”

“They already have an ID on the vic,” Ryo continued. “It’s… Dee, it’s Gilbert.”