My Heart Can Hear Yours -- (Completed)

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours

Gus & Harley

April / 2004

This is the 2nd half of the story "A Man Who Loves"

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 1

Harley stopped at the door to there office and just stared at the man looking over reports. She couldn’t help but just stare at him at times, “He’s gorgeous!” She thought smiling to herself. Sometimes she wondered if he got better looking every time she looked at him. Closing the door quietly she went to him and lay her cheek against his back even as she wrapped her arms around him. She loved holding him because Gus was hers and she was his.

Looking over his shoulder he smiled even as he said, “You know we have to be careful when we’re at work. What was that for?” When she backed up he turn then she answered, “I just wanted a hug.” “I think we can manage that.” He said softly wrapping his arms around her.

When they separated she walked to his desk, “What are you looking at?” she wondered.

“Salerno’s files. I’m trying to see if there were any drug exchanges made and we just didn’t catch it.” He said sitting down while she sat across from him.

“Okay hang on. Let’s go over what we know already.” Harley requested. Gus nodded as he watched her think. He couldn’t stop himself when he saw her wrinkle her nose and her mouth moved to a different position

“You know your really cute when you’re thinking and wrinkle nose and move your mouth like that.” He said. When she glanced at him he smiled

“Sorry, continue.”<br>
“Okay we know our guys have met with two different dealers and so far they’ve made four drug buys right?” Gus nodded. “Salerno knows that MacDonald is requesting heroin and Andrews is going after Marijuana. So the last time we met with them and Franklin; MacDonald was told he’d be getting his after his dealer dealt with someone name “Johnson” so we know Zeke Johnson will make the swap.” Harley said.

“Right. Andrews’ dealer will meet with Zeke sometime later for the marijuana. But now we have to wait till the dealers make contact.” Gus replied as he ran his fingers through his hair in frustration.

“Did you see anything you thought might be suspicious on the stakeouts we were on?” she asked He leaned back in the chair and closed his eyes as he thought back to the stakeouts.

“Run step by step what we saw.” She replied.

“It was fairly quiet when we got there except for a few guys who we figured were Salerno’s guys checking in with Zeke about the newest batches. I noticed they kept looking around. It slowed down for about an hour---.” Gus sat up and stared at her, “I saw it but it didn’t make since until now.

“What, tell me?” she asked.

“It was on our first stakeout for Franklin. It was right as your cell rang do you remember?” She nodded. “I looked out my window and saw two guys standing by the building and one guy showed the other something; but thinking they were some going in and out I didn’t pay them that much attention and went back to watching the door. That’s also when I heard you say Phillip’s name and I looked at you for a few minutes, right?” he asked.

She nodded, “Go on!” she answered. “When I looked back out the window the guys were still there so I didn’t think about it until now but one guy opened his jacket and passed the other guy a bag of something.”

“Where you still taking pictures then?” Harley wondered. “Yeah I think I was when they were just standing there.” He replied. “Okay where are those photos?” “The chief still has them.” Gus answered. “Be back!” Harley said going out the door toward the chief’s office.

As Harley walked through the bullpen she saw out of the corner of her eye a woman sitting there waiting. Not stopping she knocked on the chief’s door.

Knock, knock.

“Come in.” the chief said as she opened the door; stepped inside then closed the door. “What can I do for you Cooper?” he asked.

“Sir, Aitoro and I need the photos from the surveillance you had us go on last month from the drug operation.” He nodded as he stood and went to the file cabinet then turning handed the file to her.

“Thank you chief.” Harley said as she left his office. As she walked back to her office Chief Franklin showed the woman and a girl about ten into his office and closed the door.

Back in their office Gus and Harley began looking through the file for those pictures even as they ran theories. Finding the pictures they needed they looked at them closely with a magnifying glass.

“I knew it! Babe look.” Gus said passing her the magnifying glass then pointed out what he’d seen.

Harley smiled at what she saw. In the picture that Gus had taken with a telephoto lens it showed one man opening his jacket and taking out a bag filled with white powder and holding it.

“They were making a drug buy right there, didn’t even wait to get back out on the streets.” Gus replied shaking his head slowly.

“So either that was Zeke making the swap, or some other dealer decided to make the swap to get money. Looking through the photos for the picture of Zeke and finding it they compared pictures and knew that wasn’t him making the swap.

As Gus and Harley each sat there thinking the chief walked in. “Cooper, Aitoro.” He said. “Oh chief have we got something to show you.” Gus said.

“It will have to wait, the Drug operation just took a turn.” Franklin said.

“What do you mean.” They asked in unison.

“I have just met with a witness; she watched a drug buy happen.”<br>
“You’re kidding.” Gus said, “That’s great.” He started to get up but stopped frozen, “She?” he asked. Franklin nodded, “Come with me I want you and Cooper to know what’s going on.”<br>
Together the three of them walked through the bullpen towards the interrogation room. Reaching it they were surprised when instead of going in; Franklin sidestepped into the room next to it and flipped the lights off.

Stepping up to the glass, Gus and Harley expected him to turn the mike on. When he didn’t they looked at him puzzled. Franklin pointed back to the glass where they watched the woman Harley had seen earlier; but this time a little girl was with her.

“What about them chief.” Harley asked. “The little girl is the one that saw the drug bu-.” He stopped and turned to watch them as did Gus and Harley and in their faces he saw shock.

Gus turned to ask the chief as Harley put her hand on his shoulder. The chief didn’t move as Gus said softly, “She’s deaf…

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 2


“She’s deaf…” Gus repeated as he watched the little girl sign to the woman.

“What happen, how did she see a drug buy?” Harley asked even though she was watching Gus and saw compassion cross his face as he watched the little girl.

“Why don’t we go on in and you can ask her. “Franklin said as he turned flipped on the lights and walked out the door. Going to the interrogation room Franklin knocked on the door and the three of them walked in. Both ladies looked up as they came in.

“Sherrie, I’d like you and Amy to meet the two detectives that are on this case. This is detective Gus Aitoro and Harley Cooper.” Franklin replied as he introduced them. “Guys this is Sherrie Jameson, Amy’s interpreter and this cutie here is Amy Kincaid.” They watched as Sherrie signed for Amy and she looked at them.

Amy turned back to Sherrie and said something, “Amy wants to know what she can call both of you?” She asked. They walked over and both knelt beside her

“Can she read lips?” Harley wondered.

Sherrie nodded “Yes, but you must speak clearly and she has to be able to see your lips. She prefers sign but reads lips.” They nodded while Gus tapped Amy to get her attention. When she turned to them he began to speak slowly where she could read his lips.

“You can call me Gus.” he replied then placed a hand on Harley’s arm, “this is my partner Harley.” Amy turned and looked at Sherrie as she spelled, “G-U-S then she spelled, H-A-R-L-E-Y.” Sherrie nodded then Amy turned back and gave them a smile.

Gus gave Harley a glance and she nodded as he stood and walked back to the other side of the table. Harley tapped Amy’s hand, “Sweetie, will you come with me and we will go find something to drink for you before you talk to me and Gus?” Harley asked. She looked at Sherrie who nodded.

Taking Harley’s hand Amy hopped out of the chair and went with her. Chief Franklin opened the door then closed it as they walked out.

“Ms. Jameson” Gus started to say but she interrupted, “Sherrie please.” She said. Gus nodded. “Sherrie, could you fill me and Chief Franklin in a little with Amy’s history before we question her.

“Most certainly.” She replied.

“Amy is a ward of the state. She was placed with foster care when she turned 1. Someone found her one day and brought her to the foster care facility where I work. When we found out she was deaf my boss asked me to take classes in American Sign Language (ASL) so I could be Amy’s interpreter so I did. Amy is a well behaved, well adjusted kid who is happy and loving and kind.” Sherrie replied. They both turned when Chief Franklin’s beeper went off.

“I’ll be back in a few minutes.” Franklin stated as he slipped out.

“Let me ask you a couple of questions.” Gus requested.

“Certainly.” She replied.

“How old is Amy? And would it be easier if Harley and I began to learn sign so we could communicate with Amy?” Gus asked.

Sherrie smiled, “Amy is 11 and if you and Harley are willing to learn her language to be able to talk with her since she will be helping you it would be nice.” Sherrie answered. Just then the door opened and Harley and Amy walked back in carrying drinks. When Amy let go of Harley’s hand she ran to Gus and passed him a drink before sitting next to Sherrie. Opening it he smiled and took a sip. Franklin walked back in just then

“Are we ready?” he asked. Gus and Harley nodded.

Franklin walked over and knelt by Amy and when she looked at him he said, “Amy we need you to tell us what you saw the other day when you were walking back from getting ice cream with your friends; Gus and Harley are going to take notes so we need you to start from the beginning okay?” She watched Sherrie for a minute as she signed what Franklin asked. Amy nodded and began signing as Sherrie translated.

“I had gone to the ice cream parlor that’s about two blocks away from the foster house with some friends. We stayed there for awhile then I told them I had to get back so I could do some homework. They told me they’d be back at the house in a little while. I nodded then left.”

“As I was walking back I took a short cut that I always take as I walked through I saw two guys walk in from the other side so I hid behind some boxes and I watched as they stopped. One guy was wearing a grey sweatshirt and the other was wearing a leather jacket. They were looking at each other and the one in the sweat shirt asked the other,

“Do you have my stuff, I really need it.”

The other guy answered, “Yeah hold your horses; I got the stuff and this is premium stuff…. Where’s the cash?” then he opened his jacket and pulled out a bag with white powder in it and passed it to the guy in the sweat shirt. That guy then passed him cash.” Amy replied taking a deep breath. Harley saw her eyes and asked,

“Did the guys see you?”

She nodded, “They didn’t see me at first so I tried to slip out and was almost away from them when I felt the vibration and started running. I managed to loose them then ran home and told Sherrie what happened. When I told her; we talked it over and I wanted to help but I was scared at first but really wanted to help somehow so here I am.” Amy finished.

Gus finished writing then stood and walked around too her, “You did great and we’re glad you wanted to help, we will need you’re help for this case. Right now though we need you to look at some pictures and see if you recognize the men you saw okay?” he replied as Sherrie signed. Amy nodded as Harley reached and took the photos from Chief Franklin who had stayed silent during her questioning.

Harley laid the pictures out on the table then said, “If any of these men look familiar tell us ok?” she requested. Looking up, “Sherrie can I talk to you outside for a minute?” she asked. The woman nodded telling the little girl she’d be right outside with Harley for a minute and she’d be back then followed Harley out.

Amy continued looking through the pictures slowly trying to recognize the two men.

Outside the door, Sherrie and Harley stood there as she started talking, “I thought maybe since Amy was going to be helping us Gus and I should learn sign would that be pos----?” Harley started to say but stopped when Sherrie laughed.

“I’m sorry Harley; you’re the second person that asked me that.” Sherrie replied. Seeing the glint in her eye Harley asked,

“Gus already asked didn’t he?”

Sherrie nodded, “Apparently you both are willing to make Amy comfortable and learn her language to communicate with her. I have some ASL books in my car; I’ll go get them now and have them for you.” Harley smiled, “Great.” She said as Sherrie left and went to her car. Harley turned

“Connors, when the lady comes back; she’ll have something for me and Aitoro laid the information on my desk please.” She asked and he nodded as Harley walked back in the interrogation room. Harley watched as Amy continued to look through the last of the pictures. When she finished she looked up at them.

“Do you recognize any of these men?” he asked. She shook her head and then made the sign as if she were writing. Chief Franklin passed Gus his legal pad and he laid it in front of Amy. Passing her a pen she wrote:

I don’t recognize any of these men—none of them. I want to help you and Harley.

Harley read her note then looked at her and answered just as Sherrie came in. “Amy you are helping us and what you’ve already told us is a great help. If you remember any little thing; you let Sherrie know and she’ll let us know alright.” She nodded.

“Chief, we need to go.” Sherrie replied. “Okay, we may need to talk to Amy again.” He answered. “That’s fine; she wants to help so just let me know.”<br>
Amy got Sherrie’s attention and signed something. “She wants to know if you two mind being friends with her.” Sherrie replied.

Gus and Harley looked at each other and smiled then looked at Sherrie, “What’s the sign for friends?” Gus asked.

Sherrie showed them then kneeling by Amy they tapped her hand to get her attention when she looked at them they each made the sign for friends and she smiled.

After Sherrie and Amy left Gus and Harley headed to their office. Gus sat on the edge of her desk as she sat down, “I think since Amy will be helping us it would be a good idea for us to learn her language so we can communicate with her. He replied.

“I definitely agree.” Harley answered holding up a book and he read the title.

He smiled, “I had the same idea.” Harley said giggling.

Leaning over her desk his mouth crushed hers in a kiss she felt to her toes. “I love you.” He whispered then pulled back and picked up the book. Flipping it open to the page that had the alphabet he looked for the letters he wanted; trying to position his fingers correctly he looked at her as he said

“I guess we have our first---.” Positioning his fingers he spelled, A-S-L then continued speaking, “--- lesson tonight babe.” She nodded as he put the book down and they both got back to work.

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 3

Her hand slammed down on the snooze button to stop the blaring of the alarm in their ears. “It’s Saturday!” she mumbled before slowly opening one eye and looking at the clock 6:15 a.m. After tuning off the alarm she closed her eyes tight and rolled over. When she did she came in contact with Gus’s hand as he reached for her and pulled her close wrapping one arm around her then settling into sleep once again.

Laying her head on his shoulder she watched him sleep. Harley loved him with all her heart. He would do what he had to do to make her, the boys, and himself happy. Thinking of how much he meant to her; her eyes traveled to his chest where his other hand was resting. Being careful not to wake him Harley slowly traced his fingers; she loved his hands for many reasons, they were capable, strong, they wanted to protect, and they were loving, gentle, and passionate which at times drove her to distraction. But as she looked at his hand now all she saw was the compassion in his hands and fingers as she thought back to the night after they’d first met Amy when they both began to learn a little girl’s language.


“Sweetie, why don’t we look at the books Sherrie left us.” Harley said that night after they’d eaten. He’d agreed and they’d sat on the couch with the book between them.

They had both practiced the alphabet for a long time as well as practicing letters by spelling the names of people they knew until the letters became smoother. After a while they began to actually try signs.

“Honey wait?” Gus replied.

“What?”

“Learning letters is one thing but we both want to communicate with Amy I think that we need to see if we can find ASL classes being taught.” Gus answered.

“You’re right, why don’t I call around tomorrow and see what I can find.” Harley said.

“Great, let’s keep practicing though he answered.

She nodded as they continued practicing. Harley couldn’t help but stop and watch Gus when she saw the intensity on his face. Watching him she couldn’t help but remember the look on his face and in his eyes as he watched through the class as Sherrie talked with Amy. As he’d watched Harley had seen compassion for Amy, sadness that she couldn’t hear, and he was touched at the courage the little girl had shown.

Harley was pulled back to the present as Gus slowly rubbed her arm. Looking at him she saw he was still sleeping but wanting to touch him she leaned in and gently kissed his cheek. When she did he nuzzled his face closer and tightened he grip. Loving their closeness Harley just memorized his face as she watched him sleep.

Smiling as he mumbled, “I love you.” Harley thought about Gus and how he’d been during the classes.

“Sweetheart, I found out where some sign language classes are.” Harley had told him.

“Great where?” Gus had asked as he’d leaned in to kiss her.

“They are at the town rec center on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 7 -8:30 p.m. and they start this coming Monday.”


They had gotten to the center by 6:30 that following Monday and had now been in the classes for two weeks now. Practicing the signs they’d learned that night they realized they had both enjoyed these classes.

Laughing softly, Harley remembered the night a few days after they had started classes when he’d left her at the door,

“I’ll be back I need to ask the teacher something.” He replied as he had made his way back toward the front.

She had watched as he had asked the teacher and then saw when the teacher had showed him a sign. Turning with a smile he had walked back to her and they had left.

It wasn’t until they had gotten home and put the boys to bed then climbed in bed themselves that he’d showed her the sign and told her what it meant.

She was pulled back to the present again when she felt a soft kiss on her shoulder. Turning to look at him she saw he was staring at her with a smile.

“Where were you just now?” he asked.

“I was thinking about you.” Harley responded as she lightly caressed his cheek. Bringing her hand to his lips he kissed her fingers as he spelled with his other hand, “I–L-O-V-E- Y-O-U- B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L” She nodded and made the “I love you” sign for him.

Pulling her under him, his lips crashed on hers as he relaxed into her and carried the kiss deeper. He kissed her mouth, cheeks, and eyelids then began to work his way down her body. Working his way up his hands softly caressed her as he lovingly drove her crazy.

Seeing the desire spark in his eyes she wanted to drive him crazy the way he had her. His eyes began to change as she kissed him and lightly rake her fingers through his hair then down the side of his neck.

She smiled as his hands drove her wild again and seeing her eyes go blind kissed her as if she could satisfy this craving but he knew as long as they were together it would always be this way – a craving that only she could meet.

He smiled as he kissed her then as they saw the desire in both their eyes they let it take them over.

Sometime later as they lay there they wrapped their arms around each other and lay in silence for a few minutes until Harley asked, “Do you realize what you do to me Gus?”<br>
“What do I do?”<br>
“You turn me to mush.” She replied kissing the corner of his mouth.

“I turn you to mush huh?” he asked grinning. She nodded against his chest.

“We’ll when I’m with you like this…. You weaken me too but when we are together in whatever we’re doing I feel like I can do anything as long as we are together.” He replied.

Just as he finished they heard Zach walk down the hall. Hearing him they both got up long enough to pull clothes on then climb back in bed. Opening the door he looked in, “can I come in?” When they nodded he ran in and climbed on the bed with them. Crawling to Harley he kissed her cheek then moved to Gus and kissed his.

“Mommy can I have some breakfast?” Zach asked.

Looking at the clock she saw it was 8:00 “Yep tell you what, you run downstairs and wait for me and Gus ok? We’ll be down in a minute. Nodding he jumped down and ran down to the family room.

Gus and Harley climbed out of bed then hand in hand left the bedroom together.

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 4

As they both sat in the car watching MacDonald and Andrews, something didn’t feel quite right to either Gus or Harley but they didn’t know what.

Harley scooted closer to Gus, “Sweetie are you okay?” he as asked watching her move over. “Yeah I’m just cold.” “Well come over here and I’ll share my blanket.” Gus replied with a smile and a gentle kiss as he hugged her closer and wrapped his blanket around them both; while they continued to watch the warehouse.

“Time to check on our guys,” Harley said looking at the clock. Gus nodded as he flipped on the mike that linked them with MacDonald who was standing against the building.

“MacDonald, it's us, we’re still with ya.” Gus replied.

They both saw when he started to look in their direction but Gus stopped him, “---no don’t look for us, just straighten your jacket if you’re okay?” he asked. MacDonald lifted the jacket and pulled it around him.

“Good.”<br>
“When is Zeke supposed to meet you?” Harley asked. MacDonald looked around for a minute then quietly said, “He called earlier and said he’d meet me here in ten minutes.”<br>
“Good, we’ll be watching and if something’s off give us---.” MacDonald stopped him, “Yeah if something isn’t quiet right I give you the signal by scratching my head, I got it.” He answered. “After you make exchange get out and meet us at the station. Be Careful!” Harley said. “Will do.” MacDonald said as he walked away.

Gus flipped his mike off and flipped Andrews mike on.

“Andrews where are you?” Harley asked.

“I’m directly in front of where MacDonald was at 3 o’clock.” He answered. Both Gus and Harley looked in that direction where they found a clump of trees and a man fidgeting and sweating--- the perfect cover of a heroin addict.

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah I just wore enough extra clothes so I’d be hot enough to begin to sweat and look like I really need a fix.” Andrews replied.

“Zeke will see you after Macdonald right?” Gus asked.

“Yep, Zeke is supposed to see him first.” Andrews said as he watched his partner. Both MacDonald and Andrews were placed where they could see each other and Gus and Harley could watch them both. “Okay after you make the exchange get out and meet us at the station.” Turning off the mike Gus and Harley watched in silence.

Fifteen minutes later, they watched as Zeke approached MacDonald who was acting like he was zoned out on the last of what he had and he and Zeke talked for a minute. While they were talking Gus grabbed the camera and began taking shots of Zeke for Amy to look at.

Harley continued to watch the exchange while Gus was taking the pictures. “Gus?” she questioned.

“What is it honey?” he asked

“Macdonald is scratching his head.” “What?” he said as his head snapped up. They watched as the exchange was made and only one bag was given instead of two. After a few more minutes MacDonald left as Zeke turned toward Andrews.

Considering MacDonald’s problem both Gus and Harley watched as Zeke made the exchange and as they both knew Andrews too scratched his head. Talking with Andrews for a few minutes, Zeke walked away as Andrews headed in the opposite direction.

Gus glanced at Harley as he started the car and quietly left the warehouse and headed toward the station. There was something not quite right and they needed to talk over a backup plan with Chief Franklin.


Station

Harley and Gus walked in the station and went directly to Franklin’s office. When they reached the office both Andrews and MacDonald were sitting there waiting for them.

“What happened?” they asked in unison even before Chief Franklin could say anything.

“Detectives’ sit down.” Franklin said as he closed the door. When they did MacDonald started telling them what happened.

“The exchange was going great, Zeke thought I was zoned out on my last batch of heroin so when he opened his jacket to make the exchange of 2 bags he only passed me 1, telling me the second bag was still being made and he’d have it for me tomorrow night.” MacDonald replied.

“What about you Andrews?” the chief asked.

“Same story, he only passed me one bag saying a lot of batches weren’t finished and his boss wanted him to get what they had out on the streets and he’d have the second bag for me tomorrow night.”

“Did Zeke make either one of you as a cop?” Harley asked.

“No.” they both answered. “We are careful, and he just thinks we are junkies waiting for our next fix. I did get the impression that they are worried about being watched that’s why we only got one bag tonight.” MacDonald answered.

“Watched by whom? Us?” Franklin wondered.

“No, I think Salerno feels he’s being watched by a rival family.” MacDonald responded.

Everyone watched as Chief Franklin walked to the window and they all jumped when he hit the file cabinet beside him. “Cooper, get your brother in here please.” He asked. She stood and went to get Frank, when they came back she sat back down by Gus as Frank shut the door.

“What’s going on chief?” Frank asked.

“You’re not involved in a case right now are you?” the chief asked.

“No.”<br>
“Well you are now; you are to finish out a stake out with Harley.”

“What? Why?” Gus asked standing up.

“As much as I didn’t want to involve you at this point, Gus I’m putting you undercover tomorrow night. If he thinks it’s a rival family Gus you can read there body language. ” The chief said.

“You will be going under as a homeless man who just happens to be there. I want you to make yourself up where you will be hard to recognize should one of Vinnie’s guys spot you.” Franklin replied sitting back down.

“Harley you and Frank will be watching, MacDonald, Andrews; Aitoro will be there but you are not to have any physical contact, he will be wired just as you two are.” Franklin said. They nodded then Gus spoke, “What about clothes Chief?”

“Vice has clothes, check down there before you and Harley leave.” He replied as everyone left.

Knowing that there wasn’t anything left to do Gus and Harley left the film with the lab to develop so they could show the pictures to Amy tomorrow then headed to the vice division.

When they reached the area the supervisor led them to where they keep the clothes and they began to look through them. Once they found what they were looking for the supervisor put the clothes aside plus some make up that Gus could get tomorrow. Leaving the station they both drove home, Harley’s hand never leaving Gus’s thigh.


Warehouse

Across town, a man laid fire streamers around the warehouse. With a laugh he couldn’t wait.

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 5

Getting up from his desk Gus went to Harley and slowly ran his hand over her hair as a way to comfort himself as much as it was to just touch her. Harley smiled; as she felt his hand through her hair. She knew he was worried about tonight. Without looking she reached up as he walked behind her and wrapped his arms around her as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

“I love you, you know that don’t you?” he asked.

She nodded as she kissed his cheek, “I know you do.” She answered. “I wish you could be with me tonight.” She caressed his cheek lightly, “I’ll be watching, you know I’ll be with you.” As she started to turn he stood, “I’ll be right here with you.” She replied as she laid her hand over his heart.

“We need to go see if the pictures are ready and go talk to Amy.” Harley said. Gus nodded as Harley grabbed her and then followed her down to the lab. After getting the pictures they left and drove to the foster house.


Foster House

Walking in they went to the desk, “We’re here to see Sherrie Jameson and Amy Kincaid.” Gus said. “May I have your names please?” Gus looked over to the woman’s nametag, “Dana please let Sherrie know that Gus and Harley are here.” He said smiling.

“Have a seat please.” She replied as they went to take a seat and Dana went to Sherrie’s office.

Five minutes later, both Gus and Harley saw Amy running toward them and Sherrie was following her. “What are you doing here?” Amy asked as she waited for Sherrie to translate. When she didn’t Amy looked at both of them

“We need to ask you to look at some more pictures.” Harley signed. Amy’s eyes got huge when she saw Harley signing. Gus smiled as he signed, “We wanted to learn your language cutie.”<br>
Both Gus and Harley saw tears come to Amy’s eyes as she spelled, “W-H-Y?”<br>
“Because, we wanted to be able to talk to you sweetie so we learned sign. Gus replied.

“Gus, Harley lets take this to my office.” Sherrie replied as she took them to her office.

After closing the door; she sat behind her desk while Gus and Harley sat on either side of Amy. Tapping her hand to get her attention Gus signed that they needed her to look at pictures to see if she recognized the man.

Passing her the pictures Amy looked through them. When she came to the fourth picture she stopped

“T-H-A-T-‘S H-I-M.” Amy spelled.

“This was the man you saw?” Gus asked pointing to the picture of Zeke Johnson. She nodded. “D-I-D – I- D-O – G-O-O-D?” Harley looked at her and smiled, “You did great honey.” She answered.

“Sherrie we need to be going but we’ll be in touch alright?” she nodded as they told Amy they’d talk to her soon. Before they could leave she tugged on Gus’s hand and he knelt in front of her as she hugged him; he rubbed her back as he signed, “We’ll see you later okay?” She nodded then hugged Harley.

When they left Amy looked at Sherrie, “They learned my language.” She signed. The woman nodded as she smiled then told Amy to go
play.


Station

Back at the station Gus and Harley went to the chief’s office to fill him in on what Amy had told them.

Knock, Knock

“Come in.” Franklin answered as they walked in. “What can I do for you detectives’?” Franklin asked. “We went to see Amy today chief.” Harley answered. “Did she think of anything new?

Gus picked up where Harley left off, “I took pictures from last night and we went to show them to her. She stopped when she got to this picture.” He replied holding up the picture of Zeke Johnson.

“Did she recognize or identify him?” Franklin asked. “She identified him as one of the men she saw.” Gus answered.

“Good. Both of you go back to work and Gus before you start getting ready for tonight let me know.” Franklin asked as he dismissed them.

Once the door was closed to their office, Harley watched as Gus just stood there. When he reached for her she went to him as he put his arms around her and just held her. After a few minutes they both went back to work.

Two hours later, Gus looked at his watch and went to get his clothes from vice then came back. While he was gone Harley got the bag that he had that carried his oldest jeans, ratty sweatshirt, and old tennis shoes.

Walking back in, Harley saw the duster that they had picked yesterday, “Whoa, what did vice do make the stains more nasty?” she asked. “According to the supervisor yes they did. I don’t even want to know what they did too it if it looks like this and smells.” Gus replied as he laid the duster in the corner.

“Disinfect that corner and this office after I leave okay?” he asked. She nodded.

Locking the door Gus began to change out of his pants and pull on his oldest jeans that were ratty in places and worn to show the white and stress points in places. On the back pocket there was a hole plus holes at the knees and ripped in places. After pulling his shoes and socks on he lay a white tee shirt on the floor then opening the door went to the chief’s office and told him and they walked back together.

“What’s that smell?” Franklin asked when he walked in. They pointed to the corner.

“I have to stain this with anything I can think of.” Gus replied pulling on a glove and opening some mustard and ketchup packets vice had given him. After squirting the mustard and ketchup in certain spots on the shirt he rubbed them in. Harley walked over to the coffee pot then grabbed a paper towel and brought it back to him.

“Here put coffee on it.” Harley replied. “Good thinking babe.” He answered dunking the paper towel in the coffee then rubbing it in. Franklin put a glove on, “Hold on.” He said and left them. In a few minutes he was back carrying a tin pie plate with mud. Squatting down he replied, “You’re homeless you would have mud from when it rains. Gus nodded as he put mud on the shirt.

Standing Harley picked up the makeup that they would use to make his face look dirty and scattered it on the shirt to make it look dusty and dirty.

“That’s good.” Gus replied standing. “I’ll let you finish getting ready.” Franklin said then left them alone.

Let me help you with the makeup sweetie.” Harley said turning to pick up the makeup but his voice stopped her.

“Honey, come here.” He asked.

Going to him she stopped, “let me kiss you before we finish.” Gus asked as his mouth hovered over hers then his mouth claimed hers as he took the kiss deeper. When they broke for air he whispered

“I love you.”

“And I love you.” Harley replied caressing his cheek.

Walking over she grabbed a paper towel then turning left the office. In a minute she was back, “Wet your face so the makeup will stay and streak.” She said handing him the paper towel. After wetting his face Harley began to apply the brown makeup to his face.

“Your stubble will help hide your face.” She replied as she watched the brown streak and take the form of dust and grim on his face. Picking up a little mud she rubbed it on his face with his stubble to make it look somewhat dirty. After his face was done he unbuttoned his shirt and handed it to her then slipped the stained tee shirt on. Just then the chief walked back in

“Gus here’s your wire, the mike will wrap around the top button of the duster, run along the inside collar and earpiece will run up through your hair then around and in your ear.” Franklin replied as Gus went and got the duster and placed the wire. After placing the wire he slipped the duster on then put the ear piece in his ear and placed the knit cap on his head.

Frank walked in, “We’ll be watching Gus don’t worry.” “Okay Frank, I’ll stay far enough away they’ll just take me for a homeless guy but close enough I can hear and watch.” Gus answered as he squeezed Harley’s hand then left to head to the warehouse with MacDonald and Andrews.

“He will be okay sis.” Frank said. Harley watched as he walked down the hall before she could answer Frank she saw Gus stop and turn and walk back. He walked in the office again, “This isn’t the stakeout I wanted babe.” He said. She nodded and slipped her hand under his shirt and placed her hand over his heart, “I know you are worried about being recognized but with as much stuff we put on you and your stubble will help you shouldn’t be recognized since you’ll be in the shadows.” She replied then continued before he said anything

“I’ll be here.” She said drawing the letter H over his heart. He smiled and winked, “I’ll see you in a little bit.” She smiled back at him then leaned in and softly kissed his mouth. With a wink and a mouthed, “I love you.” He left. Picking up the disinfectant she sprayed the office as Frank asked, “What are you doing?” “Gus asked me to spray the office after he left. She replied before leaving with her brother.

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 6

Chief Franklin stopped Gus as he walked through the bullpen. “Gus here you go.” He replied handing him a thick wrinkled newspaper, “these are your blankets for the evening.” “Gee thanks.” Gus remarked. “Andrews and MacDonald are waiting.” The chief replied. He nodded as he looked over the chief’s shoulder at Harley again then disappeared around the corner.

“Frank, you and Harley give them time to get over there and in position then head over. “Sis why don’t we go grab something to eat before we go over to the warehouse.” Frank asked. “That sounds good, lets go.” She answered as they left. Harley couldn’t help but think about Gus, she was worried because he was worried and watching over him and the other guys would calm her down.


Warehouse

Frank and Harley pulled into the spot where they could watch the activity of the guys plus Salerno’s men. Frank flipped the mike to MacDonald

“Where are you MacDonald?” Frank asked. “I’m over by the old truck.” They turned and spotted him. “We’ll check in periodically.” Frank replied. Flipping his off and Andrews on Harley asked him the same question, “I’m by the trees at three o’clock. I have a clear shot of Gus Harley.” He said. Harley smiled, “So in other words where you were last night.” She asked. “Yeah.” Andrews answered.

She turned the mike off and flipped Gus’s mike on as Frank watched her. “Gus?” “Yeah babe.” “Where are you sweetie?” she wondered.

“I’m in the doorway of the storage area in front of the trees on the right and the front of the warehouse. I can see all the way across the yard, Andrews is on my left and MacDonald is in front of me.” He replied.

“Be Careful honey.”

“Always.” He replied before she turned off the mike and she and Frank watched in silence. Harley’s eyes traveled the yard until she came to the doorway of the storage area where Gus lounged in the doorway as a homeless man.



They watched all night at midnight they saw Zeke walking toward MacDonald and turned his mike on to listen to the conversation.

“Hey Mac.” Zeke replied. He looked up when he heard his name. Thanks to the cloudy, hazy contacts he was wearing when he looked at Zeke he saw a man who was high.

“Zeke, hey do you have my stuff?”

He looked at Mac and laughed, “Yeah but what’s the hurry, you got a fresh bag last night?” Zeke asked.

“I know but I’d feel better with the second bag, man I gotta tell ya when the jitters start it scares me cuz that tells me my high is wearing off and those jitters can be painful.” MacDonald replied.

Zeke handed him the second bag and he held it close, “Ahh thanks man. I won’t be having jitters for a while with this.” He answered as he sat down and Zeke walked toward Andrews.

As he walked toward Andrews, Zeke noticed the man lounging in the doorway and walked over.

“Hey man,” Zeke replied as he kicked his foot. But staying far enough away, the guy stunk. “Heeeeyyyy, whhhat?” Gus answered slurring his words like he had just been woken up.

“Get out of here.” Zeke said.

Gus didn’t move except to move the sheets of newspaper over him better then dropped off to sleep again. Before Zeke could wake him again Andrews’ voice carried to his ears.

“Yo Zeke, come on man!!!” he said as he fidgeted. Looking back at the homeless guy he headed toward Andrews.

“What took you so long man?” he asked. “I wanted to check on that guy.” Zeke remarked nodding toward Gus. Andrews looked over at the man

“He’s homeless so what?” “Yeah and he stunk.” Zeke answered and laughed. “Here’s the second bag Andy.” After the exchange was made Andrews sat and went to fixing him a joint as Zeke walked away when he had his back turned Andrews traded joint for a cigarette and began smoking it.

Back in the car Harley heard, “Babe, when I get home I’m going to take a long shower and get all this gunk off me.” Gus said. She laughed, “You can take as long a shower as you want. Are you okay?” she asked.

“Yeah, besides the fact that I was hoping I wouldn’t be spotted, or I’m cold, I’m fine. Oh tell Andrews thanks.” “Will do.” Harley answered.

“Frank?”

“I’m here Gus, what’s up?” he asked. “From what I’ve been able to see and hear, our man is definitely thinking he’s watched by a rival.”<br>
“Who?” Frank wondered.

“Can’t be to sure but the name Bruzi has been mentioned.”<br>
“Thanks, keep watching.” Frank said.

“Harley, look my direction.” Gus asked. Frank watched as his sister looked toward Gus, “I’m looking.” She stated. “Try not to worry babe, I’m fine.” Gus replied then she turned the mike to Andrews.

“Hey Andrews, it’s Harley.” She said. “Yeah.” Was all he answered. She smiled. “Homeless, says thanks for the save.”<br>
“Good work getting Zeke away from him” She said. Frank and Harley both saw as Andrews glanced toward Gus and nod and watched as Gus rolled over in the doorway where he could see the people more clearly.


In the woods behind the warehouse a man sat watching all the people who were getting the newest batch of drug runs ready. He also saw the junkies sitting in various places getting high on there choice drug.

He smiled as he played with several books of matches and eyed the fire streamer nearest him. Taking one of the books of matches he had he lay it on the streamer and fondled the other books in his pocket.

This is one job he didn’t mind carrying out for the boss. He knew this was one of the biggest warehouses of drug processing that his boss’s rival Vinnie Salerno had and his boss had wanted to send Salerno a message, which was in not so many words, he whispered

“You mess with my boss and you’ll be burned Salerno.”<br>
The man stood and placed the matches in various places along the main streamer them striking one match he let it fall on the streamer and watched as the flames traveled toward the warehouse.

After a few minutes once the flames were close to the warehouse the man disappeared through the woods.

Gus, Andrews, and MacDonald were still in there positions when after a little bit they saw Salerno’s guys come pouring out of the door at a run. A few happened to see Andrews and MacDonald and shouted,

“Move, move, go, the warehouse is gonna blow!” as they ran by them.

Both men jumped up and ran and as they ran by Gus they shouted the warning as they ran for cover.

Gus who was still close to the building jumped up and ran as fast as he could for cover and just as he gotten several feet from the building an explosion ripped through the night as the force of the explosion threw Gus several more feet. In the car Harley and Frank watched as the warehouse went up in flames and tears came to Harley’s as she saw Gus when he flipped threw the air and she heard him yell

“Harley!” Then they heard silence

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 7

Frank called for backup and an ambulance just as Harley started to jump from the car but Frank gripped her arm to stop her.

“Wait sis! The ambulance is on its way.”<br>
“Let go of me Frank. I have to get to Gus.” Harley screamed. “If you’ll wait I’ll drive a little closer.

Sitting back Harley watched as her brother drove as close as he dared. As he pulled up the fire engines pulled up and all the firemen began working on the warehouse. She jumped up and ran to where Gus was while Frank talked to the fire chief.

Harley knelt beside Gus as she held his hand, “Gus, honey I’m here stay with me baby. Just hold on and stay with me. She kept saying as she gently put his head in her lap and ran a finger over his face so he could feel her touch. She kept talking to him until Frank had to pull her away so the paramedics could work on him when they arrived. Once he was stabilized she rode with him to the hospital while Andrews and MacDonald drove behind them and Frank stayed at the scene.

She continued to talk to him and hold his hand on the way there.


Cedars

Rick ran to the door and watched as the EMT’s rolled what appeared to be a homeless man in, “What have we got?” he asked.

“Detective with the SPD, Caucasian male 35, was knocked out and thrown several feet when an explosion happened.” The EMT answered. Before Rick could ask another question he heard

“Rick! Help him!!!”<br>
Looking up he saw Harley then with shock in his eyes he looked back at Gus. “Get him in exam 1, Harley wait out here sweetie; I’ll come out when I know something.” Rick replied as he raced to the exam room.

Harley walked aimlessly toward a waiting room chair. As she sat Andrews and MacDonald came through the door. “Harley how is he?” they asked.

“I don’t know; Rick’s in with him now.” She said then continued, “What happened at the wa----?” she started to ask but saw the chief walk in and over to her and hugged her.

“What happened guys?” Franklin wondered.

“Well we were in our positions when Salerno’s men came pouring out of the warehouse screaming at me and MacDonald to move because the warehouse was going to blow so as we ran by Gus we told him and he took off running and was just a few feet behind us when we dove for cover. Before he could dive the warehouse exploded.” Andrews answered.

The guys waited with her while she waited for Rick to come give her news and for Frank.

A few minutes later, Buzz walked in and Harley saw him, “Daddy?”

“Sweetie, Frank called me, how’s Gus?” he asked as he held her. “I don’t know Rick’s still with him.”

“He’s strong baby he’ll be okay.” Buzz replied. She nodded absently as she stared at the exam room door.

The all turned toward the chief when his cell phone rang, “Franklin.” He answered. “Yeah Frank, I’ll be there once I find out about Gus. Stay till I get there.” He replied then hung up.

“Cooper, I want to stay until I find out about Gus then I will head over to the warehouse and then I’ll send Frank okay.” She nodded then headed to the window to look in on Gus.

When she looked through the window she saw that they’d gotten his close off and changed into a hospital gown and now Rick was checking him over.

“Hold on baby.” She whispered then turned to face her dad.

Sitting down; tears flooded her eyes while she watched the exam door wishing for Rick to come through it and tell them something. She needed to see Gus; needed to touch him and let him know she was here. The chief knelt in front of her, “Harley, I’m sorry I put him undercover at this stage. If I hadn’t he wouldn’t be here.”<br>
“Chief, there is no reason to be sorry. If you would have put someone else he would have talked to you until you let him do the assignment.”<br>
“Harley?” Rick said as he walked to her. “Rick; how is he?” she asked.

“Sweetie, Gus has cuts and bruises he sprained his left wrist all from when he was thrown. He’s still out but he should be coming around sometime in the next little while. I have him on an IV antibiotic drip due to some of the deep scratches and cuts. We don’t know about other injuries until he comes to. Once he’s awake, I’ll examine him again and then we will know more.” Rick replied.

“You can go in and sit with him now, here take this Harley.” He said passing her a wash cloth. “The nurses didn’t wash his face, thought you’d want to do it.” He said then walked to the nurses’ station.

“Go be with him baby, I’ll be right here.” Buzz said as she nodded and walked in Gus’s room.

Harley just stood there and looked at the man she loved with all the scratches and cuts and bruises plus the makeup that was still on his face. Walking to him she took his hand and placed a gentle kiss on his mouth

“Sweetheart, its Harley I’m here I’m with you.” She replied as she ran her fingers through his hair. “You’re at the hospital honey, you were thrown after the explosion but you’re okay.”<br>
“How about if I get this make up off your face huh.” Harley said as she stood up and went to the sink. Wetting the wash cloth with warm water she took it back to the seat. Leaning over she gently began to wipe the make up off as she talked to him.

“You scared me honey, when I saw you flying through the air I’d thought I’d lost you. I think my heart stopped when I saw the warehouse go up in flames.” She traced his features as she cleaned his face. Going to the sink again she wet the cloth again and went back to him as she washed his face again.

“Does that feel good to get all that makeup and sweat off?” she asked as she continued with his face then washed his neck then up and down his arms. Laying the cloth in the tray on the table she looked at now clean face. Fighting tears she saw in her mind when he went flying through the air as he called her name.

“I know this isn’t as good as the warm shower you wanted, but I promise when you get home you can have the warm shower.” She replied as she just sat with him and caressed his cheek.

“I love you Gus, very much.”<br>
While Harley wove her fingers though his she laid her head against his chest and listened to his heartbeat as she closed her eyes and fell asleep.

Several hours later, Gus slowly opened his eyes and tried to focus on where he was we he did the thoughts of what happened swamped him and he looked for Harley. When he looked down he saw her and ran fingers through her hair to wake her. Harley looked up and into his beautiful brown eyes even as he pulled her to him and kissed her. When they came up for air he traced her features

“Are the other guys okay?” he asked her. When Harley started talking he stopped her, the slight ringing in his ears had kept him from hearing her.

“Repeat what you said babe he asked. “Both Andrews and MacDonald are okay, they’re outside with the chief.” She repeated.

“Honey what is it?” she asked when she saw fear come in his eyes. He shook his head even as he stared at her, he could see her lips moving but he couldn’t hear her.

Holding her hand tighter he looked at her, “Harley, I can’t hear anything.”<br>

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 8

“Harley, I can’t hear anything?” Gus said.

Grabbing a pad of paper from her purse she wrote: What do you mean? Then showed it to him. When he read it he pulled her to him, “I can see your lips moving but I can’t hear any sound.” She looked in his eyes and then finger-spelled, R-I-C-K. He nodded as she left the room.

While she was gone Gus couldn’t help but wonder what was going to happen now. If he couldn’t hear he couldn’t be a cop, he wouldn’t be able to hear Harley’s wonderful laugh or hear when she said I Love You. Tears came to his eyes as he thought of his little man; he wouldn’t be able to hear Zach while he read him his bedtime story or when he tickled him.

Just then Harley walked back in with Rick; when she saw his face she went and sat on the bed beside him. He wrote on a legal pad he’d brought with him,

Gus, I will examine you in a second but I have called an auditory specialist in to consult, he will be here in a minute. Showing it to him Gus read the message then nodded.

Rick turned to Harley, “If you’ll step out for a minute, I’ll examine him.” He replied as Gus tried to follow by Harley’s expressions since Rick had his back to him and he couldn’t follow. Turning to face him Harley signed, “Rick wants me to step out while he checks you over.” He shook his head,

“No,I want her to stay Rick.” He said fiercely. Rick looked at Harley as she signed and spoke at the same time.

“I’m Staying Rick.” He nodded knowing full well that neither would leave the other.

After Rick examined him he again wrote Gus this message:
Physically everything is healing, I’ll take you off the IV antibiotics and you can start taking oral antibiotics. Depending on what is going on with your ears and what the doctor orders you can change out of this hospital gown and into the sweats that was brought for you. Again he nodded as another doctor walked in. After introducing himself to Harley she turned to Gus and signed ‘doctor’ then spelled C-H-A-L-M-E-R-S.

Seeing this he asked if Gus was deaf; Harley answered, “No! He’s not he is a cop who is working on a case involving someone who is deaf so we learned the language.” Dr. Chalmers nodded the looked a Gus and wrote:

I want you to tell me what happened? He nodded as he explained about the explosion and being thrown then waking up there at the hospital with a ringing in his ears and not being able to hear. The doctor nodded

I need to take you for some test so we can see what’s going on with you then I’ll bring you back and fill both you and your girlfriend in okay.

“Can Harley come with me?” Gus asked linking his fingers with hers. Dr. Chalmers shook his head and Harley looked at Gus as she squeezed his hand and with her other spelled so he could read it,

“I- W-I-L-L B-E R-I-G-H-T H-E-R-E W-A-I-T-I-N-G.”

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 8 Continued

“I’ll go get a wheelchair.” Rick replied to Dr. Chalmers then slipped out. A minute later Rick was back and he and Harley helped Gus in the chair as Dr. Chalmers stood behind it waiting. As he was being wheeled out his voice stopped them

“Wait!” he asked then looked at her.

When Harley saw his eyes she walked over and knelt as Gus leaned in and claimed her lips. Breaking the kiss he signed “I love you.” She smiled and made the same sign then he was gone.

“I’ve never seen Gus act like that.” Rick replied. “Like what?” Harley asked.

“Defenseless.” He answered.

When Harley heard him she just stared. “He’s scared Rick, his hearing was taken away from him and he’s worried that he won’t get it back. You of all people should understand, you were married to Abby, and if I remember correctly she was deaf.” Harley said sarcastically before walking away.

Harley walked out in the waiting room where Chief Franklin and the guys were waiting along with her father.

“How is he Harley?” Franklin asked.

“Physically, the scratches, cuts, and bruises will heal.” She replied hesitatingly. When Franklin saw the look on her face he stopped pacing, “What aren’t you telling us?” he questioned. She looked at the men then taking a deep shaky breath she answered

“He can’t hear.” Harley said softly. They all looked shocked, “What?”

“Apparently since he was still close to the warehouse when the explosion happened and with the force of it; as of right now he has ringing in his ears and can’t hear any sound. He has been taken for tests now to find out if there was any damage.” She finished.

Seeing the look in the chief’s eyes before he turned and stormed out the door Harley followed him. She found him in the Ambulance bay outside the door sitting on the bench across from the door.

“Chief are you alright?”

Looking up she could see that his eyes were bleak, “This is all my fault Harley, I’m sorry.”<br>
As she leaned against the wall she replied, “How was this your fault sir?” “Because you and he were to stay behind the scenes and he got pulled in to go undercover.” Franklin answered. “Sir that is the kind of cop Gus is if he knows he can help he’ll want to. You asked him to do surveillance, none of knew what was going to happen at the warehouse. If you had any inkling you wouldn’t ---.” Harley stopped as Andrews stuck his head through the door

“The doctor’s back Cooper.” He said than disappeared, she and the chief walked back in and she saw Doctor Chalmers waiting for her.

Once the introductions were made he filled everyone in, “Ms. Cooper, first Gus is in his room resting. He knows what I'm about to tell you; he also knows I want to keep him over night. Now as I said earlier I ran some test and from all the results I can see no permanent damage to his ears whatsoever, there was no damage to the ear canal, inner ear, or even ear drum. What I think happened was since he was still close to the building when it exploded and with as much force as there was it was what caused the ringing and with time the ringing should subside and he’ll be able to hear again.”<br>
“Do you know how long doctor? And can he change into sweats” Harley asked. “There is no strict timetable. As the ringing subsides he’ll hear voices and noise that will be distorted until the ears clear up. But for now he still hears silence. Yes, he can change clothes.” Doctor Chalmers replied.

“Thank you.” Harley said he nodded as he walked away.

Everybody breathed a sigh but as Franklin walked away he motioned to Harley and she followed.

“Did Gus say anything about what he’d seen or heard?” When Franklin realized what he had said he closed his eyes.

“He said that by everyone’s body language that they were definitely watch for one of Salerno’s rivals to do something. He said the guys kept mentioning the name Bruzi.” Harley answered. He nodded, “both you and Gus are on paid leave as of now. I’m going to go relieve your brother, keep me posted.” Franklin said as he followed her back in and while she headed toward Gus she didn’t see when the chief was approached by MacDonald and Andrews about staying on and helping bring Salerno and Bruzi down for what Bruzi’s men had done to Gus.

Harley walked to her dad and picked up the bag that apparently Andrews had been asked by Frank to take to Buzz so he could get some clothes for Gus and bring over. Giving her dad a smile she went in to Gus.

Harley walked to the bed and stroked his face as he opened his eyes. When he saw her he signed, “Where were you?” She told him she was talking to the doctor; then asked him if he wanted to change into something more comfortable. He nodded.

She helped him change into a pair of sweat pants and gray tee shirt before she could help him lay back down he pulled her to him and hug her close. She felt him begin to tremble so she pulled back to look in his eyes and saw the brightness of tears. Gently kissing his lips she helped him lay down then she sat next to him.

Seeing Sherrie out of the corner of his eye he pointed to the door and Harley turned. Surprised to see her Gus asked, “What are you doing here?”

She smiled as she spoke and signed, “Chief Franklin called me a little bit ago and told me what happened. When I told Amy she said she wanted to come see you.”

A-M-Y H-E-R-E Gus asked. “Yes she’s outside but we can’t stay long.” Sherrie said. He nodded as Sherrie went and got Amy. A minute later Amy ran to them and Harley moved off the bed and set Amy in her place. She leaned over and hugged Gus and he just closed his eyes. Pulling back Amy signed, “What happened?”<br>
Making sure she could read his lips he said as he spelled one word then said the rest, “E-X-P-L-O-S-I-O-N hurt my ears.” Her eyes got huge as she said, “I’m sorry.” Nodding he looked at her when he smiled and said, “I’ll be okay, you know that learning sign to talk to you means now it’s helped me and Harley since I can’t hear her. Amy looked over at Harley and she nodded as she came up beside Gus. Getting her attention Sherrie signed to Amy that they had better go so Gus could rest. Nodding she hugged Gus again then Harley, before getting down and then she and Sherrie left.

Once they were gone Harley saw his eyes as she sat down. Signing to him she asked, “What’s wrong sweetheart?”

Laying his hand gently on her cheek he spelled, I-A-M S-C-A-R-E-D B-A-B-E.

“I know you are, but you’ll be fine.” Harley said as she signed.

“But what if I never get to hear you tell me you love me or your laugh or little man?” Gus asked.

“Honey it will take time but you will hear me say I love you again, you’ll hear me laugh and you will hear Zach again. Right now you need to rest.” Harley finished signing as she started to lean the recliner back.

Missing her touch Gus looked at her and patted the bed beside him, “Stay with me please?” he asked. When she saw how scared and upset he was she climbed out of the recliner and eased in next to him

“Better?” she asked signing. He smiled as he hugged her, “Now I think I can sleep.” He replied.

Harley pulled away and he watched puzzled as she took his hand and put it loosely at her throat. Harley hoped he would feel the vibration of the words as she spoke and signed them. Speaking as clearly as she could she signed what he needed

I L-O-V-E Y-O-U G-U-S

Seeing a tear roll down his cheek she moved his hand, “I fe…lt… the… words.” He said softly then continued, “I Love You too.” She nodded as she signed, “Sleep honey, I’m here.” Then lay her head back on his shoulder and watched as he hugged her and finally went to sleep.

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 9

Station

“What have we got MacDonald?” Franklin barked. “Okay, we know Zeke is getting jumpier by the minute he knows he’s being watched by us now due to the fact we have plain clothes watching him. He still doesn’t know about me or Andrews yet… we have enough Marijuana and Heroin stashed away that we can bring him in.” MacDonald looked at Andrews then continued

“We can bring Zeke in tonight, but sir we will need Amy Kincaid here to positively id him. And chief we want Gus to be here when we bring him in.”<br>
“The chief nodded, “Frank and I have been watching Bruzi’s guys and we identified which man was the arsonist and started the fire at the warehouse. This man usually goes out to dinner about 7:00 so Frank and another uniform will bring him in. but Frank and I will question him, “No one hurts one of my cops like this and gets away with it.” He said.

“You guys hold on a minute while I check with Sherrie about Amy then you can go get ready.” Franklin said as they followed him to his office and waited while he made the call. Fifteen minutes later he hung up, “Sherrie and Amy will be down here at 7:30 and wait so Amy can ID him.” They nodded as they left to go get ready and head to the new warehouse.

When they left Chief Franklin called Harley


Gus and Harley were sitting on the couch talking when the phone rang. Harley reached for the phone and answered it.

“Hello.” Harley answered. “Harley its Chief Franklin.” “Hello sir.” She said as she looked at Gus and spelled, F-R-A-N-K-L-I-N. He nodded as he watched her mouth while she continued to talk to the Chief.

“First, how’s Gus?” he asked. “He’s doing well, he’s having snatches of sound occasionally but not completely yet.” She replied. “That’s Good. Listen I was wondering if you both could come to the station around 7:30 tonight?” he asked. “The station?” she asked.

Gus having read her lips looked at her puzzled ah he tapped her arm and signed one word, “What?” Gus asked. Positioning the phone between her ear and shoulder Harley signed, “He wants us both at the station by 7:30.” He pointed to himself and she nodded.

“If you want us there will be there Chief, however Gus is confused as to why you would want him there.” Harley replied. “He’ll understand when he gets here.” The chief answered then hung up. After she hung up she called Buzz to see if he could stay with Zach until they got back.


At The Warehouse about 6:45 p.m…

MacDonald was in a quiet spot near where Andrews was standing both watching as Zeke approached him to make the exchange of money for heroin.

“Hey Mac.” Zeke said as he walked to him. “Yo Zeke, hey man you got my stash?” MacDonald asked as he looked over Zeke’s shoulder to see Andrews quietly approaching with his gun drawn.

“Yeah I got it, I got it!” he said as he reached in his jacket then passed “Mac” a bag of heroin. Once the bag was in MacDonald’s hand Andrews spoke

“Freeze Police!”<br>
When Zeke turned to face Andrews, MacDonald pulled handcuffs out then said, “Up against the wall and hands behind your head NOW!!” Then Andrews walked Zeke toward the wall. At the wall MacDonald repeated the order for hands behind his head when Zeke complied with MacDonald he then handcuffed him and he and Andrews led Zeke to a hidden police cruiser then once he was in they drove away.

Across town outside a restaurant…<br>
Frank watched as the man as he sat at a table enjoying his dinner. With a nod to the uniformed officer sitting beside him they stepped out of the car with Frank in the lead so the guy wouldn’t get spooked by the officer. Reaching the table Frank stopped and the man looked up

“Angelo Giovanni?” Frank asked

“Yes.” Angelo replied. “You need to come with me, and I suggest you do it quietly.” Frank said holding the man's arm firmly even as the uniform officer stepped up and Frank showed him his badge. Standing Angelo let himself be led between Frank and the officer to the car then they drove to the station.


Station

The chief was standing there with Sherrie and Amy when Gus and Harley walked in. When Franklin heard them he turned, “Chief what’s going on here?” Gus asked when he and Harley saw Amy. Turning back to Sherrie he told them it would be a few more minutes then motioned for Gus and Harley to come with him as he walked away but stopped where he could see the door.

Harley signed as Franklin spoke to them, “Andrews and MacDonald wanted you here when they brought Zeke in. They have enough drugs in evidence to bring him in. MacDonald radioed a few minutes ago they are on there way in. Amy is here to positively id him.” He said.

“They want me here?” Gus asked puzzled. Franklin nodded then turned as MacDonald and Andrews dragged in a fighting Zeke. “Guys you know where to take him. Franklin shouted, they nodded and walked away.

Going back to Amy the chief knelt “Amy sweetie I need you to come with me okay. You will be able to see him but Zeke will not be able to see you alright.” He said standing. She looked at Harley and Gus, “Will you come with me?” she asked. Y-O-U- B-E-T. They said and signed at the same time. They looked at the chief and Franklin nodded and together they went to a room.

Once they reached it Franklin turned off the lights while Gus stood behind Amy. When he felt her trembling after she got a good look at him he knelt beside her and signed, “It’s okay A-M-Y The Chief, Harley and I are here – Zeke can’t hurt you, he can’t see you. Is this the man you saw in the alley that day?” Gus asked.

While Gus was talking to Amy Andrews and MacDonald had quietly come in. She started signing, “Yes, that’s the man I saw he was the one that saw me before I could get away. She said. “Are you sure?” Gus asked. She nodded then Gus looked at the chief

“She positively ID him chief. That’s who she saw.” MacDonald nodded then slipped out and took Zeke to lock up; they’d deal with him later.

When everyone came back to Sherrie the chief filled her in then told Amy that she did a great job. Then after hugging Gus and Harley she left.

“Is that all you needed us for Chief?” Harley asked. Before he could answer Frank walked in with the uniform officer and Harley saw Franklin’s change when he looked at Frank,

“Take him to interrogation.”<br>

[Shanna]

My Heart Can Hear Yours... Chapter 10 (Conclusion)

“Come with me.” Franklin requested as he led them to the room beside the interrogation room. When he closed the door he turned to Harley and spoke to her even as he wrote a message for Gus

Gus,

Several officers asked that you be here while Frank and I questioned this man--- even if they hadn’t asked I would have brought you in. We will try and speak clearly so you can see what we are saying but Harley may have to sign for you.

The explanation will be clear.

When Gus read the message he looked at Franklin, “You and Frank will question this guy?” he asked. Franklin nodded as he disappeared through the door. Standing outside in the hallway, waiting for Chief Franklin was Frank, Andrews, and MacDonald. “Let’s go nail this guy.” Franklin replied and they nodded as he walked out and walked in the interrogation room.

As Gus and Harley watched they flipped the lights and Harley turned on the speaker so she could hear. What they both saw surprised them instead of seeing just Frank and the chief walk in they saw the two other officers walk in and take positions around the room. When he saw the tape recorder Gus knew they were setting up the statement. He saw when Franklin asked the man his name. Harley turned as she spelled the name for Gus

“A-N-G-E-L-O G-I-O-V-A-N-N-I” He nodded as he watched,

“Angelo, where were you two weeks ago between 9 p.m. and 1 a.m.” Franklin asked. “I was at home.” He replied. “I was with my wife. I told you that on the way here.” Angelo answered looking at him.

“Where you?” Frank asked. “I decided to check with your wife and she told me that you had left the house sometime a little before 8:00 that night and she didn’t see you again until after 2:00 a.m. when she looked at the clock when you came to bed the next morning.

“What do you do Angelo?” MacDonald asked looking toward the mirror.

“I work in shipping and my boss called me; telling me we had a small problem so I went in.” he answered. “Did you get the problem worked out?” Frank asked. “Oh yeah.” Angelo replied with a small smirk.

“So let me get this straight---.” Franklin said in a deadly calm voice as he leaned in almost noise to nose with Angelo even as Frank, Andrews, and MacDonald stared at him “--- your boss Bruzi wanted you to send a message to his rival, Salerno right?” Franklin stated.

“Yeah he wanted me to send Saler---.” The man stopped and looked up and around the room for away out.

“So you went to Salerno’s warehouse?” Andrews asked even as the chief looked directly in the mirror. On the other side of the mirror Harley listened in stunned silence as Gus whispered,

“Now I understand why they wanted me here, I’m looking at the man that set the warehouse on fire.”<br>
“Why Angelo?” Frank asked but even as Gus watched he couldn’t make out the word so Harley made the sign for ‘why’ then spelled A-N-G-E-L-O.

“What did you do?” MacDonald said staring at him. “Bruzi wanted to send the message to Salerno that no body messed with him so he knew Salerno had one of the biggest drug processing warehouses in a secluded spot so he sent me to scout out the place for a few days and I did then one night I prepared the fire streamers to start the fire then the next night I went back and watched for a little bit then started the fire and I was going back to my car when I heard the explosion.” He finished.

“Now Angelo, there are two things you can do here 1. Be an informant for us and turn states evidence on what you know of Bruzi so we can bring him and Salerno down or 2. Go to jail for a long long time.” Franklin replied.

As Gus watched he realized he could hear Franklin’s voice and it wasn’t distorted or far off, it was clear through the speaker as he said, “Angelo, no one hurts one of my cops and gets away with it.

“Harley?” Gus said softly when she turned she saw tears in his eyes. “What’s wrong honey?” Pulling her to him he kissed her, “I can hear you!”

“What?” she replied shocked? “My hearing is back.” He stated as they both turned and listened

“Cop?” Angelo squeaked. “Do you remember seeing anyone that night?” MacDonald asked.

“Yeah there was a heroin junkie by the truck.” Angelo started to say even as MacDonald stood up, “that’s me.” Angelo tried to swallow, then there was a junkie smokin’ a joint, Andrews stood. Then there was some homeless guy in a doorway.” He finished.

Franklin slammed his hand on the table then replied in a cold voice, “that homeless guy is a cop who was wounded thanks to the explosion, now you could do jail time for wounding an officer. Take him to lock up Andrews we have enough for a conviction.” Franklin replied walking out with Frank and MacDonald behind him.

“Now I know why you wanted us here chief,” Gus said. “No one hurts one of my people.” “I know I heard.” Gus replied then turned to Harley, “I’m a little tired babe lets go. He answered walking out.

Everybody stopped, “Did he say he heard?” Harley nodded “his hearing is back.” She said walking out of the station.


Gus and Harley’s

Gus swept Harley off her feet once Buzz had closed the door. “Let’s go upstairs, I need to be with you.” He said as he carried her to their bedroom.

Sitting her gently on the side of the bed he knelt to remove her shoes and then stood and pulled her to him as he buried his face in her hair. He loved the scent of her hair and just her scent; he didn’t know how much until all of his other senses had become stronger and more heighten after he’d lost his hearing.

“You know how much I love the scent of you.” He replied. When she laughed he stared at her with eyes bright as he fought tears, when she saw his face she stroked his cheek, “Honey?” “Laugh again?” he asked. When she did she realized what he was listening for. His mouth locked with hers as he managed to rid them both of there clothes. He gently lay her on the bed and never breaking there kiss lay on top of her.

She slowly memorized his face as he ran his fingers and hands over her body letting them feel there way as they had so many times before; never quite meaning as much as it did now. He now knew her body as well or better than his own.

She loved him so much that she didn’t know what she’d do without him. He claimed her lips in a kiss that made her dizzy with desire. As he worked his way down her body and back us she saw his eyes dark with desire. When he kissed the center of her left palm she stared in his eyes as she whispered, “Gus!” “I know baby.” Together there desire took over.

She smiled as she felt his weight on her as their hearts settle then he rolled and pulled her up snug beside him.

“I love you.” She said. He looked in her eyes as he answered, “And I love you.” She slowly ran her hand through his hair as she heard his breath even out in sleep.

Harley watched him sleep for a while then thought back to when she had met him -- she thought he was rough, rude, and at times mean and she wondered if he even had a heart; or was a human being. As she looked at him now she saw the real Gus the man definitely had a heart, he lets her see his soft side and that little boy that’s always been there, he loves deeply, and would do anything for her and her little boy.

While she’d been lost in thought Gus had woken up and just watched her. Linking his fingers with hers brought her back to the present just as he softly replied

“I love you. I just now realized something.” He said. “What?” Harley asked. “That this whole time I couldn’t hear and I didn’t know if I’d hear again I was sure of one thing. My heart could hear yours and the words ‘I love you’ in every touch you gave me, every hug, every kiss.” She smiled.

“Now what where you thinking about when I woke up?” he asked. She caressed his face, “I was thinking about you and how you’re the one – the man who loves me.”<br>
“That I am.” He replied smiling as he kissed her.