The "D" Sting-- (Completed)

[Shanna]

The "D" Sting

Gus & Harley

Febuary / 2004.

My version of what could've happened with the Brad Green / Antimonious Storyline

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 1

Harley stood there staring at the man standing in her front door. “Hello Harley.” Crossing her arms she glared at him, “What are you doing here Jeffrey?” she asked glancing back at the kitchen to see if Gus had heard her.

“We have business to discuss. Can I come in?” he asked walking past her without waiting for her to answer. Just as Jeff walked in Gus came from the kitchen carrying a cup of coffee and eating a Danish.

“What’s going on?”

“I’ve been working with two agents and I think its time they met each other, “Agent Cooper meet Agent Aitoro.” Jeffrey answered. Turning Harley stared at Gus, “You!” she hissed. Gus only stared he wasn’t sure what to say or what to think. As Jeffrey watched he saw when it finally sank in with Gus and he pulled Harley over by the fireplace.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were working for him?” Gus said angrily.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were working for him?” Harley asked just as angry. “You rat!"

“Excuse me!” Jeffrey said.

“Me? A rat! You didn’t tell me either Harley!” Gus said his voice rising.

“You could have tol --- .” Harley started to say but was interrupted when they heard, “EXCUSE ME!!!!” shouted Jeffrey.

“What are you still doing in our house O’Neill?” Gus asked trying to control his temper.

Harley held up her hand to stop him from saying anything as she said, “Shut up!!! Get out!” Turning she hugged Gus as they stood side by side.

Walking to them he said, “I’m not leaving! Now as to why you are both working for me I’ll tell you if you’ll listen. “You both are great at what you do, so why wasn’t I going to put you Gus on the inside at Spaulding when you could have access through Alan. I needed Harley to get close to Brad.

“Did you ever consider what this would do to Gus when he found out stuff on Alan, his father?” Harley asked Jeffrey as she felt Gus link his fingers with hers and squeezed her hand. “I needed to know about that if it's Alan, I need to know Honey.”

Jeffrey walked around the couch to face them. As far as you Harley, I needed you to get close to Brad Green and you did it.

Harley saw the muscle in Gus’s jaw twitch as he turned and made a lunge for Jeffrey just as she grabbed him by his shirt to stop him as he growled, “Don’t go there O’Neill, I’m still really pissed at you for putting Harley through that with Brad.”

Jeffrey continued as if Gus hadn’t said anything. “You BOTH worked great as partners. Separately you both did great jobs, but I need you to work together from here on out to finish this.

“I’ll give you time to discuss this.” O’Neill said as Gus and Harley stayed where they were and he went to the door.

“Honey we loved being partners on the force.” Gus said quietly as he stroked his finger across Harley’s lips.

Harley smiled, “We could come home together. We can work off the stress of the day.” She said moving from foot to foot. Rubbing her arms Gus chuckled, “Babe don’t show him you’re excited.” He said giving her a light kiss and leaning his forehead against hers, “Yeah we could definitely work off the adrenaline of the day.

“Excuse me can we talk business now?” Jeffrey asked. Gus turned, “Goodbye O’Neill!” he said as he kissed Harley and didn’t let her go.

“Harley?” O’Neill started to say.

“Not Now!! Leave.” She replied never taking her eyes from Gus.

Jeffrey stood there for a few minutes waiting for them to turn their attention back to him. When they didn’t move he stared at them another minute then quietly opened the door and left. When they heard the door close Gus pulled her to the couch. “I know you are trying to be brave but you are taking a risk with what you might find out about Alan.” Harley said kissing his cheek. Running his fingers through her hair, “You are the brave one; you’re hanging around with Brad Green. The day I saw you at Olivia’s eating oysters was that part of O’Neill’s plan?” Gus asked.

When she nodded, “He stroked her face, “Hope you didn’t give him all your oysters.”

She leaned against his shoulder and ran little kisses across his jaw, as she replied, “You are the only one my oysters go too.”

Pulling her with him when he laid on the couch he kissed her lightly. Looking in her eyes, he gave her a deep kiss, and let himself sink into her. Breaking the kiss Gus replied, “You know babe we need to come with a plan for Brad Green.

“We do; but not now.” Harley answered smiling. “Gus I really hated lying to you, you know that don’t you?” He nodded, I hated lying to you too, let’s promise no more secrets?” he said.

Gently kissing him she said, “No more secrets.”
Hugging her and holding her tight Gus looked up into her eyes, “I’ve missed you babe.” “I’ve missed you too Gus very much, I’ve missed you holding me.”

“Then just let me hold you for a while please I hate when we fight and I know you do to, I’ve missed our closeness.” Gus said as held her and felt her nod against his chest.

In the silence they held each other and soon they were asleep. Harley was asleep on Gus’s chest and his arms wrapped around her.

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 2

At the top of the stairs Gus stopped. He hated that he and Harley had to keep dealing with Spaulding or Brad Green but they knew that to find the missing shipments of Antimonious they needed to keep working for Jeffrey. He always knew that eventually he’d find things out that he couldn’t tell Harley right away and that killed him. Downstairs as Harley finished getting ready she couldn’t help but feel guilty that she hadn’t told Gus about the meeting with Brad Green in his hotel room. Glancing toward the stairs she still didn’t know how to tell him. “How do I tell him?” she wondered.

Turning to finish her makeup she heard Gus come down the stairs. When he saw her he stopped and stared. Going up behind her, he kissed the back of her neck as he turned her away from the mirror.

“You look fantastic babe. To bad you can’t wear something else that won’t make Brad’s eyes pop and save this little number for me.”

“I wish what’s his name hadn’t said this was his plan, because I wish we didn’t have to do this.” Harley replied as she leaned back against Gus. Kissing her neck he quietly said, “I know, but I got your back.” “You do?” she asked “You know I do babe and always will; I’ve got your back, I got your front, I got...” "I know.” Harley said as she smiled and playfully slapped at his hand.

“You better go before Brad gets here.” She said turning and kissing him before he moved away.

“Yeah I’d better.” Gus said as he walked to the door.

Turning to look at her one more time he said, “Brad Green won’t know what hit him.” Then gave her a little wave and left.

Twenty minutes later, Harley answered the door when it rang. “Hi Brad” she said when she let him in.

“Harley you look beautiful, but what are we doing meeting here; what about Gus?” Brad asked. As she took his coat she said, “Well I figured I owed you since we couldn’t meet before. The kids are at a friend’s house playing and as for Gus he’s at an all day conference of some sort until sometime later.”

“So we have the whole house to ourselves?” Brad asked smiling.

She nodded as he went to her and pulled her in his arms. “Do you know how much I missed not being able to meet you the other night Harley?” he asked.

“You did?” she asked. “Hmmm, yes.” Brad replied caressing her face. Looking away, “Maybe you could get that message to Gus; he doesn’t seem to notice me anymore.” Harley said as she walked away from him.

“Are you having problems with Gus?”

“Yeah, all he does is work day and night. When he comes home he’s either wrapped up in work or he doesn’t see me. By the time he does notice me I’m usually asleep. But that’s why we see each other right?” Harley asked smiling. Walking up to her Brad held her tight for just a second before he kissed her. When he kissed her Harley rolled her eyes, she couldn’t stand kissing him but she had to as part of her cover. Getting back to character she put one arm on his shoulder and stiffened when she heard the rattle of keys at the door.

Outside the door Gus rattled his keys one more time then slipped the key in and turned the doorknob. Even as Brad continued to kiss her Harley said, “Brad its Gus Stop!” Brad let her go and they separated.

Just as Gus walked in Harley turned to look at him

“Gus, hey sweetie, I didn’t think you’d be home until later.” Never taking his eyes off her he walked in, “Hi honey I can see that. Hello Brad.” He said as he closed the door. “It’s not what you think it’s business.” Harley answered a little skittishly. “Hello Gus.” Brad replied as he walked over by the couch.

“What are you doing here Gus? I thought you were at a conference for Spaulding?” Brad asked.

“I was but it was a boring conference so Alan sprang me so I could go back to the office and work. I think I left of my files about the Antimonious shipments here so I came back to get them.” Gus replied when he looked at Harley one more time and then went upstairs.

Neither had moved and was still standing there when Gus came back down carrying SE files. “So Gus you played on Daddy’s sympathies to get out of the conference did you?” Brad asked with a smirk.

“I would suggest you get back to work yourself Brad.”<br>
Harley continued to watch as Brad said, “You may be able to run things in the board room Gus, but you see it seems we aren’t in the boardroom now and you can’t tell me what to do only a Spaulding can do that.”

“That’s right Brad, Alan is my father so that makes me a Spaulding whether you like it or not and you’re in my home and I think you should leave now.” Gus replied as a shout.

“It was my impression Phillip owned this house?” Brad said smiling as he saw Harley’s eyes go big. “Either way you have overstayed your welcome Brad.” Gus said angry as he went to the door and opened it. Harley walked up and stared at Gus

“He’s my guest I say he stays” she said with an irritated shout. Gus gave Brad a long look and turned to leave running straight into Frank.

“Hey what’s going on I could hear the two of you from outside?”

Looking back at Harley, Gus gave her a look (that said, “Don’t worry I’ll get Frank outta here.”) Turning and not bothering to look at Frank Gus stormed passed him and out the door as Harley looked on like she was about to cry.

Without saying anything Frank turned and followed Gus, he was going to find out why Gus had made his sister angry almost to the point of tears.

Harley turned and went into Brad’s arms, “I’m sorry I didn’t mean for our time together to be ruined like that.” “That’s alright we’ll find away to be together.” Brad said hugging her.

“I think I know a way we can spend more time together.” Harley said wrapping her arms around his neck.

“What?” Brad asked quietly. “Hire Harley’s Angels to help find the missing Antimonious shipments.” She replied happily. “Well I don’t know Harley; I’ll have to think about it.” Brad answered somewhat jumpy. “But that way we can spend more time with each other.” She pleaded as he kissed her then she rolled her eyes again.

“I’ll think about it.”

She nodded and turned when she heard Gus, “Harley honey will you please tell Frank that when you’re really, in love with someone you don’t always have to tell them you’re sorry.” “I think it does Gus!” Frank replied as he laid a heavy hand on Gus’s shoulder.

“Harley, I’m going to go, I’ll be in touch.” Brad replied as he picked up his coat; when he walked by her he stroked her cheek. Harley watched Gus as Brad did this and was glad that Frank not knowingly was holding him down from lunging after Brad.

When Brad walked out the door; Frank said, “Tell her Gus!” He looked at Harley, “Sweetie I’m sorry I lost my temper, I’m really sorry.” She nodded and Frank let go of his shoulder. Frank went to Harley, “We’ll talk soon alright.” She nodded as he kissed her then left.

After Frank left Gus closed the door and walked toward her. Seeing that he was coming toward her, to be near her; Harley held up her hand to stop him so he leaned against the wall to watch her.

While he watched her she walked to the bar and poured herself a huge glass of wine. He watched as Harley gulped the wine and then began to scrub her lips over and over to get Brad’s kisses off.

“You did really good baby.” He said quietly as he saw her gulp more wine. Harley looked at him, “I hated that!” she answered.

He nodded, “I know.” He said as he watched her scrub her lips harder and then finish her wine.

“You did really good too.” Harley said softly. Harley felt the tears flood her eyes as she watched him. Pushing himself off the wall Gus started toward her when he saw the tears come in her eyes. Holding her hand up again to stop him Gus simply shook his head no and continued to take the steps he needed to reach her.

When he reached her he rubbed his hands up and down her arms to comfort her and let her know he was right there. As he continued to rub her arms he watched the tears finally fall. Holding her face in his hand he wiped the tears with his thumb and leaned in to kiss her.

“Don’t Honey.” Harley whispered.

His lips hovered over hers as he said, “I think you definitely need this as much as I do sweetheart.” His lips slowly touched hers and he didn’t move until he felt her wrap her arms around his waist. When he felt her arms around him; he put his arms around her and deepened the kiss. Gus wanted to leave a kiss with her that told her he loved her.

They didn’t know how long they stood there kissing or in that spot. But when the doorbell rang they moved apart as Harley went to answer the door. As Gus went to the couch she opened the door.

Seeing who was at the door Harley walked back to Gus who was holding his hand out to her as Jeffrey closed the door behind him.

After he sat down Jeffrey took a long look at Harley, “Are you alright?” he asked. She nodded as she moved closer to Gus as he said, “What do you want O’Neill?”

“It’s about your next assignment…..

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 3

Gus and Harley looked at him and waited for Jeffrey to continue, “This assignment is in two parts? The second part will continue until we finish this.” However there are a few things you need to know.”

“What?”

“It’s about an assignment I asked Harley to carry out several weeks ago.” Jeffrey replied. When Gus looked over at her he saw that her eyes were huge and she was trying to hold back tears as she kept shaking her head no.

“Harley, he has to know so you both can carry out the assignment.” Jeffrey answered.

Laying his hand on her thigh Gus looked at Jeffrey, “What did you have her do O’Neill? If she got hurt because of it, you’re mine do you understand me? He growled as Jeffrey nodded.

“A few weeks ago I gave Harley the assignment of getting close to Brad Green so after I wired her she went to meet him at the gym and talked. Later she met me at the safe house and told me she wasn’t going to do this anymore. But I used every means possible to make sure she stayed on board – she did. It was then I told her that Brad had copies of papers I needed in his brief case and I needed her to get pictures of the papers for me.”

Jeff stopped when Harley moved away from Gus to sit on a chair by the couch. Gus looked over at Harley for minute and saw the pain in her eyes before he quietly said

“Go on.”

“It was then I learned Brad had set up a get together without Alan’s knowledge for some Spaulding executives and he’d invited Harley so I urged her to go since this could be an opportunity to get the pictures; she went. When she’d gotten to Brad’s hotel room she learned that Brad had set the whole thing up just to get her there alone. So when Brad went to take a call she called the person I told her to get in touch with if she needed to talk to me and she told my assistant she was out to get her out she wasn’t doing it. But she hung up when Brad came in.”

Both men watched as Harley dropped her head in her hands and the story continued

“In order not to make Brad suspicious until we could get her out she had to play along so when he fixed her a drink and from what my assistant told me who was working at the front desk that night said she drank it. Right Harley?” Jeffrey asked. She nodded without looking up. When Brad got a second call he told her that it might take a few minutes but he’d be back. That second call was from someone at Spaulding Gus, so Harley managed to get the pictures for me but she was almost caught—thankfully she wasn’t..."

“My assistant said that when Brad came back in the room the second time he poured drinks for the both of them and then he started telling Harley he loved being with her and then he talked about how lovely she was and he began to kiss her…”

Harley looked up and Gus saw the tears streaming from her eyes as she jumped up and ran upstairs.

“Finish it O’Neill! What did Brad want?” Gus asked through clinched teeth as he leaned his head back against the sofa.

“Apparently Brad wanted more so he slowly undid her blouse and pushed it down her arms as he kissed her, it was then my assistant knocked on the door and when Brad let her in she told him his credit card had been revoked and they’d called home, but when no one answered at home she had left a message on the machine. When he found that out he got out of there to try and get home before Marie so he could erase the message. After my assistant pulled that on Green she called me and told me what happened.

Gus jumped up, “O’Neill you don’t move do you hear me!” he growled as he ran upstairs.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Upstairs Gus went to their bedroom, when he saw that the bedroom was empty he noticed that the bathroom door was closed. Closing the door to the bedroom he walked to the bathroom door and knocked

“Harley honey.” Gus called “let me in please!” he pleaded.

From inside the bathroom Harley’s tears came faster as she sat against the side of the tub. When she heard the second response she crawled to the door and unlocked it then sat back against the tub. After a minute she felt Gus’s hand in her hair and looked up.

“I’m so sorry!!” she mumbled through tears and looking at her engagement ring.

“No wonder tonight was awful for you. I’m sorry.” Gus answered softly as he knelt in front of her; taking her hand; kissing her palm. “Why didn’t you tell me that night baby?”

“Because I felt so violated and dirty.” She said simply. She saw Gus’s eyes go hard as he asked, “Did he hurt you sweetheart?” “No, No he didn’t but I still felt…”

He nodded as he thought back several weeks earlier so that he could maybe figure out when this happened. Tipping her chin up so he could see her eyes, “Love, the night that I came home and found you in bed and you wouldn’t look at me for a little bit then we uh…. Was that the day this happened?” Gus asked. Harley nodded, “I’ll understand if you want to leave.”

“Sweetie listen to me okay, after everything we’ve been through to be with each other -- you’re stuck with me now and always – always know that.” He replied kissing her gently on the cheek.

“Really?” she asked.

“Really. You’re in my heart.” Gus replied. “It’s O’Neill I will throttle if he puts you through anything like that again.

Harley looked up, “Is he still downstairs?” Gus nodded. Taking her hand to help her up Gus held her tight as she buried her face in his neck and breathed in his scent. When she looked up he kissed her, “I love you.” He said softly when he broke the kiss. “I love you too, let me wash my face and go find out what our next assignment is.” Harley said as she washed her face and then they left the bedroom together.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jeffrey looked up when they walked down the stairs. “Can we get back to business now?” Gus held her closer. “O’Neill I ought to throttle you for putting her through this.”

“What’s the rest of our assignment?” Harley wondered as they sat down.

“Well, First Gus keep doing what you are doing at Spaulding as far as the Atimonious okay.” He nodded. “Now, Harley--.” Jeffrey started to say but she interrupted him, “My target is still Brad Green isn’t it?” she asked. Jeffrey nodded. “NO!” Gus replied as he looked at Jeffrey with fire in his eyes. Harley laid her hand on his cheek as she said, “as long as I know you’re behind me I can do this.”

“Harley, you are to let Brad know that you and Gus had a major fight because Gus found out about that night in his hotel room okay. See if you can meet in his room. Let him think you are really upset and Gus is being unreasonable in understanding when you try to talk to him. Gus, I need you to call Harley and when you start trying to look for her; you go to the room to find her and act totally upset, angry and in doing so make sure you say something about Harley that Brad will answer and you reply with something about that night. You storm out Harley you go after Gus.” Jeffrey answered.

“That’s all you need to know for now.”

“Uh –uh Jeffrey there’s one condition; I have to insist on now that I know what almost happened to Harley. Even though Harley and I are working together; you have to keep us both informed on what you want each of us to do. Because I want to know what you expect Harley to do and I want her to know what I’m doing; or Harley and I or both out.” Gus replied shouting. Looking at Gus Jeffrey thinks for a minute

“Alright!” he shouted back. Carry out this part of the assignment first to lay ground work and the next time we meet I’ll tell you.”

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 4

Gus slowly opened his eyes when he felt the weight around his waist. Looking down he realized that Harley had her arm around him. She was sleeping with her cheek resting on his shoulder. Not wanting to wake her just yet he laid there and just held her as she slept. A little later, Gus carefully pulled his arm out from under her and lay her down then turned to face her. He watched her for several minutes as he propped up on his arm. Looking at her face, he thought to himself, “You are so beautiful.” Leaning toward her Gus brushed hair away from her face as he curled a hand around the side of her neck.

Harley opened her eyes and found Gus watching her and smiling. “Morning, what are you doing?” Harley asked sleepily.

“Watching my girl sleep.”

“Why?”

“Because I can.” Gus replied as he leaned over her and gently kissed her lips then let himself sink into the kiss. Letting herself get surrounded by his warmth Harley wrapped her arms around Gus’s neck as he deepened the kiss.

When Gus broke the kiss he looked down in her eyes as he whispered, “Sweetheart, before we do what we have to do today, let me love you and show you what you mean to me.” She nodded as she raked her fingers down the side of his neck and placed kisses along his jaw line. Reaching up Gus gently linked both hands with hers; He was going to show her how much he loved her. He kissed his way down her body and back up. Harley felt herself sinking into all the sensations Gus was causing and pulling his mouth to hers she kissed him as she ran her hand down his chest.

As Harley looked at him she saw desire spark in his eyes. She kissed his throat then placed soft kisses all over his face.

“I love you Gus, so much.”

“I love you too beautiful.” He replied then placed open mouth kisses at her throat. While Gus caressed her face, his lips crashed with hers as he held her tight.

Running his fingers through her hair; he watched Harley’s eyes go blind and their desires take over. Gus buried his face in her hair as sensations pulsed through his body. Laying his cheek on her shoulder she heard Gus as he whispered over and over

“Love you, Love you.”

They lay there letting there pulses settle when Harley looked up at Gus, “I don’t know if I can do this.” Running his hand slowly up and down her back he said, “Sweetie, you’re the strongest person I know, you can do this.” Pulling her with him as he sat up he kissed her cheek, “Just remember you’re not alone in this okay.”

“I don’t think Jeffrey liked what we said would work to make the plan more believable for Brad.” Harley said smiling. “That’s too bad for Jeffrey isn’t it.” Gus replied stroking her cheek. “We’re partners and we know what will and can work don’t we.” Harley nodded.

“Let me just hold you for a while babe, since I’m going to have to act like I’m mad at you all day I want to know that in this moment we love each other.” Gus said looking in her eyes as she wrapped her arms him and his around her as they sat in the middle of the bed holding each other.

After twenty minutes, he said, “Now unfortunately I have to shower and get to work.” She nodded as he stood; she never tired of looking at him and she watched as he walked into the bathroom before she got dressed for her day. After breakfast Gus told her, “Give me until 10:30 before you call Brad okay. He has to see that I’m really mad and ticked off before you call him.” Harley nodded as she watched him walk to the car and get in. Once he was in the car Gus looked at her and winked, blew her a kiss then drove away. Harley shut the door and started her day.

A few minutes later her cell rang again and when she answered it and listened as Gus told her something. When they hung up she called Gus’s cell knowing he had turned it back off; she left a message:

Sweetie it’s me! Today will be hard for both of us but when the day’s over we can have our “us” time. I love you handsome.

After she left the message she went back to cleaning the house.

While Gus drove to Spaulding he got himself in character by thinking about what Jeffrey had revealed yesterday about Brad getting Harley alone in his hotel room. By the time he parked his car Gus was mad, mad at Brad and mad at Jeffrey for putting Harley in that situation. As Gus got out of the car he looked at his phone one more time before he turned it on. Seeing he had voice mail he checked it and smiled as he hung up.

“You know just what I need don’t you babe.”

Calling her before he went in the building he left her a voice mail then went to work.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Spaulding Enterprises

Gus walked in the building without looking at anyone. On the way to his office he walked right by Alan who smiled and said, “Good Morning Gus.” He ignored him as he continued toward his office. Fifteen minutes after he’d started to work he heard someone knock on the door

“Go Away!” he yelled.

“Sir here’s the recent numbers for the Pharmaceutical Division” his secretary replied as she laid them on his desk then left. As the morning went on Gus played his part well making his co-workers wonder what was wrong with him. Since he seemed to always be off somewhere else thinking or scowl at everyone when they dealt with him they didn’t talk to him unless they had to.

All morning Gus noticed that Alan and or Brad would just watch him. Alan wondered what was wrong with his son but as he watched he realized Gus wouldn't talk to anyone right now so he just waited. When Gus was alone in his office he would think about Harley and what they’d shared that morning.

Sometime after Gus got to the office, Brad was in his office when he realized that he needed the file on the Month’s Projections for the Pharmaceutical Division after looking through his files he noticed that he didn’t have it but he knew who did. Getting up Brad left his office and headed toward Gus’s. Reaching the office Gus’s secretary looked up,

“I wouldn’t go in there if I were you. I don’t know what’s wrong, but he’ll bite your head off if you’re not careful.” Brad nodded and knocked on the door

“Leave me alone!

Opening the door, Brad walked in, “Gus do you have the file on the projections for the Pharmaceuticals Division?” He asked.

Gus looked up with a scowl on his face, “Yeah somewhere here.” He answered pointing to pile of files on his desk and began looking for the file. While Gus looked through the files he heard his cell phone ring -- knowing that it was Harley and that this is what they told Jeffrey would make the plan more believable for Brad he stood and held up a finger as he looked at the caller id. Mumbling to himself Gus deleted the call

“I don’t want to talk to you right now Harley.”

When he hung up Brad noticed the tension and asked, “Are you alright Gus?” When he handed the file to Brad Gus answered

“Yeah, I’m just peachy” Gus said sarcastically before he looked at Brad and replied, “That was Harley -- I had a major fight with her last night and we aren’t happy with each other at the moment and right now I don’t want to talk to her.”

As Brad was leaving he said, “If I can do anything Gus, let me know.” Then walked out of the office and went back to his. Gus watched as he left and whispered, “Harley’s mine Green, not yours and she never will be yours.”

Back in his office, Brad sat back and smiled as he thought about the fact that Harley and Gus had a fight as he got back to work he thought to himself, “I’ll call Harley later and talk to her.”<br>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The House

After Gus left he’d that morning he called her on the way to work to tell her he loved her and to tell her he’d call her cell back and let it ring three times to let her know it worked. When she’d hung up, she waited and five minutes later she heard the cell ring three times. When she picked it up but didn’t answer it she saw she had voice mail so she checked it and this is what she heard:

Hey Babe it’s me! I miss hearing your voice. I love you so so much. I’ll talk to you tonight in our spot.

Smiling Harley replayed it again. When it finished she looked at the clock and realized she had 30 minutes before she had to call Brad so she began to think about when Gus found out last night and the tears came to her eyes and as she continued thinking about it the tears rolled down her cheeks as she called Brad.

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 5

Back at Spaulding…

Brad answered his cell phone when it rang, “Hello.” He replied. Through her tears he heard

“Brad its Harley can I talk to you?”

“Hey Harley, yes of course you can, I’ll meet you at Olivia’s Bar in 15 minutes alright?” Brad asked.

“Brad can we not meet there I don’t want to be around people right now.” Harley answered. “Sure I’ll tell you what I’ll meet you at my hotel, that way you can tell me what happened without people around.”

“Okay thank you.” Harley answered as she hung up.

When Brad opened the door he saw Gus walking down the hall reading a file. Stepping out he walked pass him and to the door and left the building. Once Brad was out the door Gus looked at his watch it read 12:00. Stopping to lean against the wall he whispered, “Be careful honey. I’ll be with you soon.” Then Gus went back to his office.

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Brad’s Hotel Room

Five minutes after Brad got to his room he heard a soft knock on the door and went to let Harley in. When she saw Brad she burst into tears as she hugged him. Leading her in to the room Brad closed the door behind her and sat her on the bed and held her as she cried; then letting her go he sat next to her holding her hand.

“Why don’t you tell me what’s wrong?” Brad said as he stood and walked to the bar and poured Harley a glass of water then brought it back to her as he sat down.

“I-I-I don’t know if I can.” Harley muttered.

“Take your time.” Brad answered.

“Last night Gus and I were talking while he was working; when he got quiet for a few minutes and didn’t answer me I went to the door to see about him. Just as I reached the door he held up a report and started talking about it. Watching him I asked, “Gus, who are you talking about?”

“Brad Green” he said.

“He looked at me funny when he saw me tense up and I mumbled, “Don’t mention his name to me.”

Harley looked up at Brad, “I’m sorry I had to let him think I didn’t like you or he’d get suspicious.” Brad nodded, “It’s alright Harley, what happened next?”

“Anyway, when he saw me tense up he came over to me and said, “If I find out he’s laid a hand on you…” He saw me look away from him. “When he tried to get me to look at him and I wouldn’t…” Harley looked up at Brad with wide eyes as she continued, “Brad, Gus knows me well enough to know that when I didn’t look at him and when I called you a creep you’d been around me.”

“What’d Gus say?” Brad asked.

He yelled, “Tell me what happened, what did he do to you?” Harley said as tears rolled down her cheeks. “At first I didn’t say anything, and because I didn’t we got into a major fight about it and when I tried to explain it was like he just stared at me. He wasn’t even trying to understand but the more I tried to explain to him, the more he found out about the night in your hotel room.”

Brad stood and walked to the window and stayed there as he thought, “No wonder Gus is so mad this morning; he knows about me and Harley.”

Harley watched from the bed as she quietly cried. As she cried she felt her phone that was in her coat pocket vibrate against her thigh. Knowing it was Gus she didn’t answer it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Spaulding…

Around 4:00 Gus called Harley’s cell phone, the first time, when she didn’t answer he began letting himself get angry he mumbled, “If you hurt her Green…” Every ten minutes he’d try her phone and after 5 tries and getting angrier with each try he stopped. After the fifth call he walked out of his office and went to Alan’s. Knocking on the door he went in.

“Alan I’m leaving for the day.” He said trying to hold back his anger. “Why Gus?” Alan asked as he watched the tension roll off Gus in waves.

“Because I’m worried about Harley, she’s not answering her phone and I need to find her.” Gus answered.

Alan nodded, “Go ahead Gus.” Turning Gus left the office without a glance back. As he got closer to where more people were he mumbled

“I bet I know where you are Harley.” Gus replied as he left the building and headed to Brad’s.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brad’s Hotel

When Gus reached the hotel he went to Brad’s room and knocked on the door. When Brad answered Gus pushed passed him and into the room and stopped; he let Brad see the anger and resentment instead of the relief he felt when he saw that Harley was alright.

Walking in Gus grabbed Brad by the jacket, “You think you want Harley, and I’m going to let her go? Then why didn’t you say something?” Gus growled as Brad saw fire in his eyes. “Harley’s Lovely.” Brad answered.

“Green you better be glad I’m still angry with Harley now or I would have come after you this morning” Gus answered.

Turning away from Brad so he couldn’t see; Gus didn’t say anything but just stare at Harley and in his eyes she saw how much he loved her.

“Well, if you would have let me explain last night.” Harley replied. Gus shook his head to silence her. “No let me finish Aitoro… If you would have let me explain last night you might not have been quite as mad at me this morning.” Harley said. “I can’t believe you would want to see Brad. Gus said angrily.

Before she could answer Brad stepped in, “Well Gus now that you know, you can leave.” Brad said with a smirk.

“Well, I guess I can since you and she were here the other night.” Gus said looking at Brad with stormy eyes before he turned and stormed out.

“Gus wait please!” Harley called.

As Gus left he heard Harley say, “Brad I have to go after him please understand.”

Running down the stairs Gus moved to the side where he wouldn’t be seen as he saw Harley come running down the stairs after him. He watched as she jumped in her car and headed home. Leaving right behind her Gus called her cell

“Hey sweetheart.” She answered when she saw it was Gus. “Hey Babe, I’m right behind you, I’ll meet you at home.” He said.

“In our spot?” she asked

“In our spot.” He answered as they hung up and drove home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Their house

Knowing Gus would be right behind her, she’d seen two other cars move in between them on the drive home. Harley started undressing the minute she closed the door and headed upstairs. As soon as Gus opened the door he grinned when he saw the trail of clothes leading up the stairs.

Following the clothes and bringing them with him he stopped at the bedroom door; picked up the last piece and opened the door. There on the bed was Harley in only her underwear.

Kicking the door shut with his foot Gus just stood there and stared not saying anything. While he stood there he watched as she curled her finger and motioned him toward her

“Come here.” She said quietly.

Kicking off his shoes he walked toward her almost as if he were drawn to her. Kneeling on the bed beside her; he pulled her to him as his lips crushed hers in an earth- shattering kiss while he held her tight against him. When they finally broke the kiss, they drew in air as Gus curled both hands around her neck and said softly

“I love you Harley with all my heart.”

Caressing his face and lovingly kissing his temple she answered, “I love you too with all my heart.” Running her hands over his chest as she unbuttoned his shirt and drew it down his arms then throwing it somewhere on the floor she said, “We said our spot.” Gus nodded as he leaned in and kissed her.

Looking up in his eyes as he followed her down on the bed she smiled

“Either I’m not dressed correctly or you have too many clothes on sweetie." Giving her his sexy smile, “I think I have too many clothes on.”

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 6

Sometime late Friday afternoon both Gus and Harley were waiting for Rick to pick up Jude for the weekend. Zach was upstairs playing when the doorbell Harley answered it and let Rick in.

“Hey Rick” Harley replied. “Hey sweetie.” Rick answered as he leaned over and kissed her cheek. “Is Jude ready?” “Yeah he’s ready.” Gus answered walking down the stairs carrying Jude. When Jude saw his daddy he smiled but held tight to Gus. When he reached Rick, Gus hugged Jude and whispered, “Buddy, I’ll see you in a few days okay.” Passing Jude to Rick Gus watched as Harley talked to her son then handed Rick the diaper bag and they left.

After the door was closed, Gus looked up, “Let me go check and see if Zach’s asleep yet and I’ll be back.” He said as he went upstairs. Reaching the bedroom he looked in and found Zach uncovered and sound asleep. Walking to the little boy Gus gently covered him up and after kissing his cheek closed the door halfway and went back to Harley.

Reaching the family room Gus walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her as he rested his chin on her shoulder and just held her in place as they stood there.

Walking them both back to the couch he lay down and pulled her down beside him.

“Zach’s asleep, let’s just enjoy this honey!”

She nodded as she watched him pull a blanket off the back of the couch and cover them both with it as they began to talk about what was going on since they’d set in motion the first part of the assignment.

“How are people reacting to you since the other day hon.” Harley asked.

“Well, since I’m still spacey at times they’ve figured I’ve had a fight with you. They know I miss you but they’re not sure how to ask me because they don’t want to upset me.” Gus answered running his hand over her hair.

“What about Green?” She asked.

“He’s staying out of my way unless he absolutely has to deal with me.”

“He’s driving me nuts, since he thinks you and I are having problems.” Harley said with a slight shudder. “But I have to be convincing with him that you have yet to forgive me and let him think I turn to him.”

Holding her close Gus kissed her hair, “Why don’t we turn it off for a little bit and take a nap.” He suggested. “Hmm that’s sounds good.” Harley mumbled as she buried closer to Gus’s chest and fell asleep listening to his heart beat. He fell asleep with his arms wrapped around her.


An hour later, both Gus and Harley were woken up when the doorbell rang.

“Go Away!” Harley called to whoever was on the other side of the door. When it rang again she called louder “GO AWAY!!”

“It’s Jeffrey, let me in.” He replied.

Gus groaned as they sat up, “You go check on Zach and I’ll let his highness the DA in.” Harley giggled and nodded as she went upstairs to check on Zach while Gus went to the door.

Running his hand over his eyes he opened the door, “Who do you think you are O’Neill, royalty?” Gus asked then turned and walked back to the couch and sat down.

“Nice to see you too Gus.”

Harley walked back in just as he glanced at O’Neill and snarled. Seeing her Gus held his hand out for her. “Is the little man alright?” She nodded as she sat by him, “Yeah still asleep.”

“What do you want Jeffrey?” Harley asked.

“I came by to give you the second half of the assignment.” He said as he watched them.

“According to my other sources you both completely have convinced everyone that there are problems between the two of you.”

“Whoopee!” Harley answered lying against Gus’s shoulder while he ran his fingers through her hair.

“What’s the assignment Jeffrey?” Harley asked.

Jeffrey leaned forward, “Everything I’m telling you has to happen before the operation can continue. Okay!” They nodded as he continued,

“Tomorrow Brad will be at Olivia’s Bar. Harley I need you to go there under the reasoning that you just want time away from Gus. Brad will see you. While you’re there Gus will come in for the same reason – to get away and he’ll see both you and Brad there. When he confronts you Harley, both shout enough for Brad’s sake.”

“Okay we can do that, then what?” They asked.

Jeffrey looked down and was quiet for a minute before he looked up.

“Harley you leave after trying not to fight with him and go to Company. Then Gus after you give her time to get there – go after her. After you are there begin to discuss quietly then raise voices…”

When Jeffrey stopped in mid sentence they both knew there was something else. They were both hoping what he was going to say wouldn’t be what they were thinking.

“What O’Neill?”

“The next step for you both is to break up in public. Both of you have to keep it up for everyone’s sake.” Jeffrey answered.

“NO! I won’t do it” Gus said his voice rising.

“You have to so we can continue the operation Gus. Everyone has to think you and Harley split. Gus, you and Harley have to carry this out until the operation is finished.”<br>
“Honey you know what this means?” Harley asked.

He nodded, “Yeah I can’t stay here.”

Without taking their eyes off of each other, Harley said, “We’ll do as you ask O’Neill because Gus and I both want Delirium off the streets, but on one condition.”

“What?” Jeffrey asked.

“We don’t know how long this could last, and we will let everyone publicly that we are split BUT we are by no means broken up and we won’t be.” Gus replied as he stared at Harley.

“I’ll see what I can do.”

“We’ll do what you ask tomorrow, Now Get Out!”

Without another word Jeffrey left. “We have to explain to Zach.” Harley said.

Gus gently kissed her “I know.”

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 7

Both Gus and Harley sat together in silence for a long time. Finally she stood and quietly walked in the kitchen. Gus stood and followed her; when he walked in she had her back to him and was staring out the window.

Going to her, Gus kissed the back of her neck then turned her to face him. When Harley looked up in his eyes he saw that her eyes were as bleak as his.

“I can’t wear this on my finger.” She whispered staring at her engagement ring. “No but you can wear it.” He replied taking the chain he wore off and clasped it around her neck. “You can wear that on the chain and move Angela’s ring back to where the engagement ring was until I can put it back on your finger. Gus replied as he kissed her.

“No honey, you take the engagement ring… It would look strange if I kept it with me. I would have put it somewhere for safe keeping, so I’ll wear your chain and Angela’s ring; while you have my other ring.” Harley answered.

Harley wrapped her arms around him, “Just hold me for a few minutes.” He nodded as they held each other.

Twenty minutes later, “Honey what if I fix Chicken Salad Sandwiches for dinner?” she wondered.

“Sounds good babe.”

“Will you go wake Zach for me?” she asked.

“Yeah, I’ll get him up.” Gus replied as he turned and walked toward the door. When he reached the door he glanced back.

“Harley?”

When she turned Gus smiled, “I love you.”

“I love you too sweetie.” He heard Harley say as he started toward the stairs and went up to see Zach.

When he reached Zach he knelt by the bed and just watched him for a few minutes before he shook his shoulder and Gus saw his eyes open.

“Hey little man, time to get up.” He said.

Zach smiled and held his arms up. As Gus stood he picked up the little boy he asked, “Did you have a good nap?” When Zach nodded he laid his head against Gus’s shoulder as he held him.

Squatting he set Zach on his feet. “You go see mommy okay, tell her I’ll be down after I take a shower.” Gus said. Zach nodded as he ran down to the kitchen. As Gus walked down the hall he heard Zach tell Harley he’d be down after his shower.

Walking into the bedroom he closed the door then went and got the clothes he wanted and went into the bathroom. After the water was warm Gus stepped in and just stood there letting the water beat down on him. Not knowing what else to do he leaned against the wall then slid down and sunk to the floor.

While he sat there he thought about what he and Harley were to do tomorrow; he didn’t know if he could leave his family. Even though they weren’t married yet, he considered Harley and those two boys his family.

Gus knew Harley was wondering the same thing he was, how where they going to explain this to Zach so he understood when neither of them understood how they were to stay apart when they love each other and would miss each other so much. Not knowing how long he’d sat in the floor thinking he quickly stood and showered then stepped out and dressed. After he dressed he went downstairs.

Harley was just setting the sandwiches on the table when Gus walked in.

“There you are.” Harley said as she gently kissed his cheek. “Are you okay?”

“No.” he whispered shaking his head while he stared at her and ran his hand down her arm until he held her hand. “I know sweetheart me too.” She replied as they sat down and ate.

After they finished eating Zach ran off to play while both Gus and Harley just sat there and watched him.

Twenty minutes later, Gus said, “Let’s tell him now so he can know I’ll be here tonight when he goes to sleep.” She nodded as they both hand in hand walked to the family room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sitting down on the couch side by side they watched Zach play for a minute before Gus turned to her, “I don’t know if I can do this babe.” Linking her hands with his she nodded

“Zach baby come here for a minute Gus and I need to talk to you.”

Jumping up he walked to them and sat between them on the couch leaning against Harley while watching Gus.

“What mommy?” he asked.

“Little man, do you remember when I’d do stuff for the police as a part of my job?” Gus asked looking at him as he stroking a finger across the back of Zach’s hand. He nodded as Gus continued

“I have to do something I really don’t want to do.

“What?” he asked knowing the look in Gus’s eyes meant something was wrong.

“I have to leave, I can’t stay here now.” Gus said quietly.

Both Harley and Gus watched the little boy and they saw when his eyes filled with tears.

“NO! Was it something I did – I promise I’ll be good. Then you can stay.” Zach cried. Gus knelt on the floor in front of him

“Little man, look at me you didn’t DO anything to make me leave I promise!! Your mommy and I love each other so much but we need to separate for awhile.” Gus said.

“NOOOO!” Zach cried as he jumped off the couch and ran upstairs.

“Let me go get him honey.” Harley replied through her own tears. “No, let me go.” Gus replied softly then turned and went upstairs. Reaching his room Gus walked in and his heart broke. Zach was curled up on his bed facing away from the door and crying. Walking to him; he knelt by the bed

“Zach, I love you.” Turning over he looked at Gus “then why are you leaving me.”

“Oh little man, come here.” Gus replied

Zach went to him and he pulled him into his lap as Zach snuggled closer and Gus began to talk to him. “I was asked to do something to help someone that requires me to leave you, mommy, and Jude for a little while. Tilting Zach’s chin up where Gus could see him he replied, “I love you, your brother, and mommy very much, and I’ll never stop, do you understand?” Zach nodded.

“When I’m done helping this person I promise I will be back here alright.” When Gus looked up he saw Harley standing there. Zach looked up

“Mommy are you helping Gus?” She nodded, “Yes, I am but Gus was the one asked to leave for a little while; Zach we’ll always be here baby.” Zach clung to Gus tightly as he rubbed the little boy’s back.

“It’s bath time sweetie.”

Zach looked up, “Will you be here when I get out of my bath?” Gus tried to wipe the tears from his eyes, “Yes I’ll be here.” He said as Harley carried Zach from the room.

Twenty minutes later, Gus was still in the same spot when Harley carried him back in the room. After Zach was dressed and in bed Gus climbed on the bed and read a bed time story until Zach was asleep. When he stood Gus turned back when he heard his name.

“I’m right here Zach.”

“I love you Gus.” Zach whispered. “I love you to very much, now go back to sleep; mommy and I will be in our room if you need us okay.”

Zach nodded as Gus closed the door a little and went to Harley.

When Gus walked in their bedroom he walked straight into Harley’s arms as he broke down.

Without thinking they both stripped from there clothes and climbed into bed. They came together with a need and love so strong, and both wanting to stop time; both knowing what they were going to have to face.

When they were settled and waiting for there hearts to quit racing, Gus ran his hand over her hair as he said, “I’ll call him every night babe.” She nodded against his chest

“Where are you going to stay sweetheart?” she asked. “I’d stay at the Beacon but I’m afraid Cassie will throw me out; so I guess I’ll stay where I’ve stayed before — you know where to find me.”
Both Gus and Harley fell asleep in each others arms.

Sometime during the night Gus was woken up by a noise. When he looked at the clock it read 3:00 a.m. He lay there and listened when he heard the sound

“Mommy!!!!” Zach called.

Gus stood stepped in his pants and then went to see about Zach. Reaching him, Gus knelt “I’m here, its okay.” He said as Zach reached for him and clung to him.

“Did you have a bad dream little man?” Gus asked. He felt Zach nod against his shoulder, “come on lets go downstairs for a little while okay. He felt Zach nod again as they walked down the stairs.

When Gus and Zach reached the couch he sat as he said, “you wanna tell me about the dream?” he asked.

“I was looking for you.” Zach said softly.

“Me?” Gus questioned.

“Yeah I was going to try and find you and I called your name when I saw you and you stopped but then you disappeared and I couldn’t find you.” Zach finished.

Gus held him tight as Zach buried himself against Gus’s chest. “I’m right here and when you need me I’ll be here no matter what okay.”

The little boy looked up, “Stay with me until I fall asleep okay?” “You bet!” Gus replied as he grabbed the blanket off the back of the couch and laid down with Zach laying on his chest. After covering them both up Gus rubbed Zach’s back as he went back to sleep. Holding on to the little boy he thought of as his own Gus soon fell asleep.

An half hour later, when Harley came down to look for Gus she found him there with Zach laying on him and they were both sound asleep.

Harley smiled as she walked around the couch and pulled the blanket up making sure both her guys were covered up.

Leaning over she stroked her son’s cheek softly then kissed Gus’s cheek as she whispered

“I love you my white night.”

Then she quietly went back upstairs and back to sleep.

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 8

The next morning Gus carefully got off the couch and carried Zach back to his bedroom and lay him in bed then closed the door and went to his and Harley’s bedroom where he found Harley still asleep. Grabbing some jeans and a shirt he started to turn toward the bathroom. Turning back around he took his luggage out of the closet and set it down then headed toward the bathroom to take a shower.

Thirty minutes later when he came back in the bedroom he found Harley sitting up in bed and staring at Gus’s empty luggage.

“I’m here baby.” Gus replied as he walked around the bed to sit beside her.

“What are you doing?” Harley asked. “I figured I’d better pack and go to the hotel now before Zach gets up and sees me.” She nodded, “I guess that would be best.” She said as she got up and dressed then slowly began helping him pack. After he was packed Gus went to her and carefully took Angela’s ring from her finger then took the chain. Slipping the ring on the chain Gus closed it around her neck. Once he was packed he turned

“Remind the boys I love them.”

Harley nodded as they walked down the stairs together. Reaching the door she slid his luggage to the floor as he wrapped her in his arms.

“I don’t wanna do this babe.” He whispered against her neck. “I know I don’t want you to leave either.” Harley replied. “I’d better go love.” He answered as he pulled her tight to him and his lips crushed hers in a kiss that let her know how much he loved her. Letting her go he said,

“I’ll call you tonight.”

She nodded, “I’ll see you at Olivia’s later.” Watching as Gus drove from the driveway; when Harley closed the door tears were in her eyes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The House

Harley was in the kitchen fixing breakfast when she saw Zach walk in.

“Mommy?” he asked as she knelt when he came to her. As he wrapped his arms around his neck as he asked, “Gus?” Kissing him she said, “He wanted me to tell you he loves you very much and he’ll see you soon okay?” Zach buried his face in her neck as she held him. “He held me as I went to back to sleep last night.” Zach replied trying not to cry.

“I know baby he held you all night.”

When she saw his tears she stroked his cheek as she whispered,
“Sweetie, he loves you so much he’ll be back I promise! He’ll talk to you tonight he told me he would. You know what, you can help Gus.” He looked up, “I can?” Zach asked. She nodded, “You can help by taking care of me and your brother for him until he gets back okay.” He nodded and smiled as she sent him upstairs then called Gus’s cell.

When he answered she said, “Honey it's me.” “Hey baby what’s up?” Gus asked.

“Zach’s still upset you weren’t here this morning. However, I told him something that helped.”

“What?” he asked. “I told Zach he could help you by taking care of me and Jude for you until you got back.” Harley said. “Good.” Gus answered. “Sweetie I need to make another call alright but I’ll talk to you soon.” Gus replied as they said bye and hung up. After Gus hung up from Harley he placed another call

“O’Neill get over here now!! He said then told him where he was and hung up.

Twenty minutes later, he yanked open the door when Jeffrey knocked and came in. “What did you want Aitoro?” Jeffrey asked.

“I ought to throttle you. Thanks to your so called assignment I have a little boy at home that thinks I left because he did something and now I’m never coming back.” Gus answered through clinched teeth.

“Did you explain to Zach?” Jeffrey asked. “And how are Harley and I supposed to explain to a 5 year old the real reason I have to leave Jeffrey? You care to tell me.” Gus said angrily.

“I’m letting you know that Harley and I will carry this out but should Zach need me I AM going to be there --- so work that in the plan.

Jeffrey nodded and left.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later at Olivia’s Bar…

Harley walked in and went to a table and ordered herself a drink. As she sat down she saw Brad a few tables away. Taking her cell out she dialed Jeffrey, “I’m here.” She replied. “Okay I’ll let Gus know.” Jeffrey said then hung up. She had been slowly sipping her drink for 5 minutes when Brad noticed her and came over.

“Hello Harley.” Brad said as he sat down. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah” she said sighing, “I just needed some time away from Gus and his moodiness over finding you and me together last week.”

“Are you and Gus still having problems?” Brad asked.

She nodded and for the next 15 minutes told him about some of the things she and Gus fought about. Sometime within that 15 minutes she saw Gus walk in. Seeing his face change she saw when he ordered a drink and sat down. He waited 5 minutes before Gus glanced at Harley. When she saw him; she looked at Brad

“Oh this is just great!” Harley said laying her head on her arms.

“What?” Brad asked. Before Harley could answer Gus came walking up carrying a drink

“Well, well look who I find together.” Gus said with a sneer as he sipped his drink. “It’s not what you think Gus” Harley started to say then continued, “I came here to get a break from you and our fighting and Brad just happened to be here!” said as her voice rose.

“Well, I came here for a break and look who I find here.” He replied pointing to her and Brad.

Looking up at Gus with bleak eyes and seeing that his where as sad as hers because they knew what they had to do next and it was completely breaking both there hearts; Harley said

“I don’t want to fight with you Gus. I’m going. Brad it was nice to see you.” Brad nodded as Harley started to turn and look at Gus,

“I can’t believe we’re fighting like this.” She said then walked out and headed to company.

As Gus walked toward the bar he mumbled, “We wouldn’t be if it weren’t for you and Green.” A few minutes later Brad watched as Gus stood and stormed out.

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 8 Continued

Company

When Harley walked in she looked around the room. To her it seemed like a lot of people were here she saw, Buzz, Darcy, which meant Frank was here but she didn’t see him so he was probably in the back. Cassie was here along with Blake, Ross, and Jeffrey who was drinking a cup of coffee, as well as Danny; they all were sitting there enjoying their lunch. Smiling at her dad and Darcy she chose a booth as her dad brought her a sandwich and it was there she waited for Gus.

Twenty minutes later, Harley saw Gus as he walked by the window to come in and she looked away. She saw her dad wave at him when she glanced at Buzz then saw him walk to her and slide in the booth across from her.

“What are you doing here?” she asked. “I wanted to talk to you.” He answered. From across the room Jeffrey watched knowing that what was going to happen now would be hard for both Gus and Harley.

Both Harley and Gus had agreed that morning while he’d been packing that neither would say a lot when they got to Company so the tension would be there. Harley saw Gus grab a napkin out of the holder and taking a pen from his pocket; wrote a quick note then slipped it in the pocket of her purse that was sitting on the table.

Looking at her he quietly asked “Are you ready?” Shaking her head she answered him, “No, but we might as well.” Nodding he reached under the table until he felt her hand in his then he slowly ran his thumb over the back of her hand as he said in a whisper, “I’m sorry babe.”

They started talking as they began the argument. “I don’t want to talk to you right now Gus!” Harley said. “Well too bad we need to talk.” He answered, “I want to know what you were doing with Brad Green!”

“I told you I went there to get AWAY from you.” Harley answered her voice beginning to rise. “I didn’t know he was there.”<br>
“Well, I sure got an eyeful when I walked in and saw you talking to Brad.” Gus replied in a loud whisper. They both saw when Buzz and Darcy turned to look at them.

“How many times do I need to tell you he’s a client?” Harley shouted as she stood.

Gus stood now just as angry, “If he were just a client then what were you doing with him the other day? Huh?”

By this time they both knew that everyone at Company was watching them and heard them. Gus saw when Frank walked out of the kitchen and started to come to them to stop it but Darcy grabbed his shirt to hold him back.

“He’s a client Gus.”

“I can’t believe you’d choose him over me.” Gus replied quietly now even while everyone listened.

“I never chose him Gus but if you --.” Harley leaned over picked up her purse and turned back to face Gus, “-- would ever think I’d choose him over you I guess this means we’d be better off broken up.”

“You’ll go to Green.” Gus said. “I think you better take this back.” Harley replied quietly as she held up the finger with her engagement ring as he saw the tears roll down her cheeks at the same time his heart broke and tears flood his eyes.

Everyone watched in shock as Harley slowly took off her engagement ring and laid it in the palm of his hand then wrapped Gus’s fingers around it.

Taking one last look in his eyes and seeing tears roll down his face as she felt her own tears she turned and walked out.

As everyone watched in shock, he closed his eyes for a minute then opened them and everyone saw his tears as he stared at her ring in his hand. Slowly picking up his stuff Gus left and headed to the hotel; knowing Harley was headed home.

Later that afternoon…

After Harley got home and changed clothes she took the napkin out of her purse and read Gus’s note:

My love,

I hate this as much as you do. I miss being with you and I will talk to you soon. I promise I will keep your ring safely by my heart until I can put it where it belongs. Tell the boys I love and miss them.

You are my lifeline…. I love you

G.

After putting the note in her pocket she went to answer the door when it rang and let her brother in. When Frank saw her he saw the tears and got angry at Gus.

A little later across town at Gus’s hotel, after Gus had changed clothes he took out a spare chain he always kept with him and placed Harley’s ring on it then placed it around his neck. When he heard knocking at the door he opened it.

He didn’t know what happen because when he opened the door he was thrown back on the bed as he felt a fist connect with his jaw. When he looked up he saw Frank standing there. Frank kept thinking about the way Harley looked when he came out of the kitchen earlier

“How dare you hurt my sister Aitoro?” Frank said.

However, when Frank finally saw Gus’s face he realized that he had tear streaks on his face and looked as miserable as Harley did when he talked to her earlier.

“I think we hurt each other Frank. She and I’ve been fighting and we both decided we should separate for a while but I didn’t realize we’d break up. I miss her more than you understand.” Gus replied. When Gus looked up he saw Darcy standing there looking at him with huge eyes.

“Pretty bad huh?” Gus asked carefully moving his jaw.

She nodded, “I’ll be back.” She said. A few minutes later she walked back in with a box of Ziploc bags and a bucket of ice. After filling a bag with ice she carried it to Gus along with a wash cloth. When the cloth was wrapped around the bag she handed it to Gus as he laid it on his jaw.

“I miss your sister Frank but we’d already decided to separate so I’ll stay here.” As Darcy and Frank left he looked at her, “I can’t believe I’m saying this but they both miss each other.” Darcy nodded.

Sometime that night after Gus had ordered a pizza he picked up a fresh bag of ice and lay it on his face as he walked to the bed; lay down and picked up the phone and call Harley’s.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harley’s

Once Harley had made sure the boys ate she carried them up and gave them their bath and got them ready for bed. Grabbing the portable phone she carried it to the boys’ room to wait for Gus’s call.
Fifteen minutes later she answered when the phone rang.

“Hello.”

“Hey sweetheart it’s me.” Gus answered. “Are the boys ready for bed?” he asked. “Yep Jude’s sitting right here in my lap waiting to say goodnight,” she said as she let Jude have the phone.

“Gus, Gus, Gus!” Jude said smiling.

“Hey buddy.” Gus answered “You sleep good okay, I love you.

“Night, Love you.” Jude replied handing the phone to Harley.

“Babe, it’s me. Let me put him down while you talk to Zach okay?” Harley replied. “Okay. Hey, little man.” Gus said when the little boy picked up.

“Gus?” Zach asked. “Yeah I’m here.” “You really called.” Zach said. “Yeah I told mommy I would, I’ll call you every night to say goodnight okay?” Gus replied.

“I miss you.” “I miss you too Zach very much. Now I want you to go to sleep and sleep good and I’ll call tomorrow night alright?” Gus asked.

“Uh –huh, I love you.” “I love you too.” Gus said.

“Gus it’s me honey.” Harley answered. “The boys are out.”
“I just wanted to call and say I hated this afternoon as much as you.” Gus answered. “I love you with all my heart baby.” “I know you do.” Harley answered as she climbed in bed.

“You sound funny Gus, are you okay?” she asked. “Yeah I just had a run in with your brother’s fist and my jaw is tender right now.” Gus answered.

“Oh no.”

“Its okay he blamed me for the stuff at company until he saw how miserable I am; so our stories match – we’ve been fighting and we decided to separate.” Gus replied.

“It is going to be hard to be without you Gus.” Harley answered. “I know love; it will be hard to be without you too.” Gus replied looking at the pillow next to him.

When he heard her yawn he smiled, “I’ll let you get some sleep now alright. Sleep tight. I’ll be in touch sweetie. I miss you! And I love you soooo much. Good night.” “I miss you too!!!! Gus, I love you.” Harley answered before they hung up.

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 9

Company

“Grandpa!” Zach yelled as he walked through the door. Turning at the voice Buzz went to him and picked him up when he ran to him. “Hey Zach.” He replied as he leaned in and kissed Harley’s cheek.

“Hey Baby, how are ya?”

“I’m okay Daddy; I still miss Gus but we’ll work it out eventually.” Harley answered. Buzz nodded, “He really misses you too.” Buzz replied. I’ll bring your supper out.” She nodded as she took Zach out of his arms and he went to the kitchen to get there hamburgers as they sat down at a booth.

A little while later while they were eating Gus walked in the door.

“You’re usual?” Buzz asked and Gus nodded as he walked over to the other side of the room and sat down. Harley had seen him come in but Zach hadn’t seen him yet and both Gus and Harley played their parts and looked miserable.

Once Gus had time to eat part of his dinner and Zach had finished his he glanced at Harley and nodded at the little boy. Then he turned away from her and continued to eat.

“Zach sweetie, come here for a minute.” Harley asked as he climbed off the chair and went to her.

“What mommy?” he asked. Taking him by the arm Harley turned him around where they could see the table in the corner. She pointed to Gus.

“Gus!” Zach called as he ran to him. He looked up to see Zach running toward him. Gus backed up his chair so the little boy could reach him then picked Zach up as he wrapped his arms around his neck. Once Harley saw him with Gus she turned and continued to eat.

“Hey little man, what are you doing here?” Gus asked.

“Mommy and I are here eating dinner since Jude’s with Uncle Rick. I miss you.” Zach replied as he held Gus closer. “I miss you to little man.” Gus answered. “Why don’t you sit next to me while I finish eating okay?” Gus asked as Zach climbed off his lap and climbed into the chair next to him.

Buzz walked up and leaned over Zach as he said smiling, “And for my grandson, his favorite Apple pie and ice cream. He said as he set the dessert in front of him.

“Oh Wow!!! Gus said grinning when he saw Zach’s eyes go big.

When Buzz went behind the counter he began to slowly watch as Gus and Harley made glances at each other but never linger for long. He could see that they were both miserable.

Buzz watched as Harley answered her phone when it rang. When he saw her hang up he saw her looking more miserable than ever. A few minutes later the voice that Gus heard made him freeze and his eyes turn stormy.

“Harley there you are?” Brad said as he walked to her and sat down.

“Brad what are you doing here?” Harley asked. “I wanted to see if we could meet later.” He replied as he laid his hand over hers. “I’m afraid not tonight but soon. I’m here with my son for dinner and tonight its just us.” Harley answered.

“Where is your son?” Brad asked looking around until he spotted Zach with Gus. “I see he’s with Gus. That must be tough.” She nodded, “Yes, but Zach loves him and neither of us want the boys hurt by our split than they have to be.” Harley answered.

“Brad I have to work tomorrow so let me check things out there and I’ll call you about getting together okay.”

He nodded and stood, “Alright, I’ll talk with you soon.” He replied as he leaned in and kissed her cheek. When he turned away from her he smirked at Gus as he watched Gus’s eyes turn stony then he looked at Zach and listened to something he was saying.

A few minutes later after Brad left and Buzz had watched Harley’s eyes when she glanced at Gus and saw the sadness in them he walked to Gus’s table, “Why don’t you go over and see Harley Gus? She’s right over there.” Buzz said as he came over to refill Gus’s coffee. “I can’t Buzz we’re separated.” He answered

“Oh come on, I know you miss her…. Go on.” Buzz answered. “Oh alright if it will make you happy… then I’ll will.” Gus replied a little frustrated as he stood and picked up Zach as held tight to him. “It will Gus thanks.” Buzz answered as he went behind the counter as he watched him walk toward Harley.

“Harley.” Gus said as she looked up.

“Mommy, look its Gus!” Zach said smiling. “I see baby.”

Looking miserable Gus asked, “May I?” as he pointed to the seat across from her. She nodded as he sat down.

“How are you?” he asked. “I’m good I guess.” She replied. “I saw you with Brad?”

“Not that it concerns you but Brad wanted to know when he could see me to talk about something.” She answered when she saw his eyes go hard.

“So, you did go to Brad?” Gus said somewhat hurt. “Don’t you miss what we had Harley? “Of course I do, but I think for now…” she started to answer but he stopped her as he nodded slowly as if he understood where she was going finish the sentence.

“Mommy, can Gus come home now?” Zach asked.

“Oh sweetie not yet.” She answered as she watched Zach bury himself closer to Gus as Gus held him tighter.

Looking at her, Gus quietly asked, “Do you mind if I take him outside for a few minutes?” She shook her head when she handed him Zach’s coat and watched them go outside.

Once Gus and Zach were outside Gus sat on the bench with the little boy in his lap and he was holding him tight. “I miss you Gus.” Zach replied. “Look at me little man, I miss you too. I’ll be home soon okay.” Gus answered. “Now I need to know are you taking care of mommy and Jude for me?”

Zach nodded, “Uh-huh.” “Good.” “Zach look at me for a sec?” Gus asked. When he looked up Gus continued, If you need me tell mommy and she’ll know how to reach me and I’ll be there okay.” Zach nodded.

When Gus looked up Harley was standing there. “Sweetie give Gus a hug and a kiss goodnight then go see grandpa okay?” Harley asked. He nodded as Gus knelt and hugged and kissed Zach than he ran inside.

“Harley, I’m miserable honey, can’t we work this out?” Gus asked. “I don’t know Gus we…” He nodded, “I know, I know; can I at least give you a hug for old time sake?” Gus asked.

Harley nodded slightly as Gus went to her. She stood still as he wrapped his arms around her. Placing her lips by his ear she whispered,

“Call O’Neill I want to talk to him with you there.” She said.

“Where?” Gus asked looking at her.

“Your hotel; let me get things settled here with Zach and Dad and I’ll meet you there.”

Squeezing her hand Gus nodded and walked away feeling miserable. Turning Harley walked back into Company.

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 10

Harley knocked on the door and was pulled into the room by strong arms as Gus shut the door.

Before she could say anything his arms tightened around her as he kissed her. When she felt herself sinking into him; her head fell back against his arm while he continued the kiss. When they finally pulled apart they were silent as they both pulled in air. As Gus watched her eyes he linked his fingers with hers

“I had to do that, before the thought of not being able to kiss you drove me crazy.” He replied smiling.

Smiling Harley sat on the bed, “Did you call O’Neill?” He nodded “Did you get Zach settled after he saw me?” Gus asked sitting beside her. “Yeah, I explained to him that we may run into you when we go somewhere and that if he wanted to see you that it was okay by me.”

“Buzz saw how miserable we were tonight from being in the same room but not being able to be together.” Gus replied. She nodded, “I know, I asked him if he’d watch Zach tonight since seeing you hurt and I wanted time alone. He agreed so he’s watching Zach tonight.”

“So you can stay?” Gus asked. When she nodded he wrapped a hand loosely around her throat as he leaned over to kiss her cheek then whispered, “I Love You!” Harley reached up to caress his face, “I love you too.” Neither made a move from their positions since they each wanted the closeness until the knocking at the door forced them to separate so Gus could answer it.

“Alright Aitoro, I’m here what’d you want?” Jeffrey replied a little irritated.

“I called you on behalf of Harley, not me.” Gus answered as he shut the door and leaned against it so that O’Neill was between him and Harley.

“What’d you want Cooper?”

“How much longer will we have to play these roles Jeffrey? I’m tired of it, Gus is tired of it and I have two little boys who are waiting for him to come home – he is the only male that’s a constant in their lives and they need him, they miss him.” Harley replied as Gus walked to her and wrapped an arm around her waist.

Gus sat down on the bed and pulled Harley down to sit on his leg while Jeffrey paced in front of them.

“I’ll see what I can do, you both are still going to have to play the parts a little longer since I just got some new information, Harley I just got word a few minutes ago that Brad has papers on Antimonious that I’m going to need you to get pictures of for me so we can see what Green’s planning; so plan to meet with him in the next few days. Gus I’ll let you know where you fit in this as far as Spaulding is concerned in this particular shipment. Jeffrey replied looking at his two field agents.

They nodded as Gus held Harley tighter, “Find out soon O’Neill!! I want to be home with Harley and the boys.” Gus replied as Jeffrey saw he was serious.

“I’ll do what I can.”

Gus slid Harley off his leg then stood and walked to the door and opened it, “We’ll be in touch, Now kindly get out of my room O’Neill before I throw you out!” he said as he stood there waiting for Jeffrey to leave.

Turning Jeffrey walked out the door as it slammed shut behind him. Gus turned to Harley

“Alone at last.”

Going to her he knelt as he ran his hands up her arms. “I’ve missed you Gus.” “I’ve missed you too babe so much.” He answered as he pulled her off the bed and in his arms and began to dance with her.

“Dance with me, I just want to hold you for a bit.”

She nodded as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Looking in his eyes she smiled, “Honey we don’t have any music?”

“We don’t need any.” He replied as he danced with her across the carpet between the door and the end of the bed.

They danced in silence for along time, neither needing the music to listen to; they knew what was in their hearts. While they were dancing Gus caressed Harley’s face lightly with his fingers as he pushed hair behind her ears.

“You’re my lifeline, you know that?”

“And you’re mine.” Harley whispered as she buried her face in his neck.

Slowly Gus ran a hand up and down her back as he walked around the floor with her. When Harley looked up at him he ran a finger over her lips then let himself sink into a kiss as he deepened it.

When they broke the kiss Harley placed light kisses over his face as they moved around the room. As they continued to dance Harley slowly began to unbutton his shirt. Seeing her ring around his neck Harley lay her hand over it, just as he laid a hand over hers. Loving the feel of the closeness Gus danced across again as Harley raked her fingers down the side of his neck. Stopping long enough to take his shirt off and through his shirt in the corner; Gus wrapped his arms around her again as she lay her head against his shoulder.

“Dancing like this is nice.” Harley said.

“What? me in bare feet, jeans, and no shirt?” Harley nodded “Yeah.”

Looking at her he smiled as he slowly pulled her top over her head and threw it somewhere by his shirt. Even though they still danced they were now swaying as his lips crashed with hers. When he looked in her eyes she asked, “Do you still hear the music we’re dancing to?”

“Oh definitely! Do you want to keep dancing?” When she nodded Gus moved a few steps as he kissed her neck and worked his way down her arms and back up.

“You are so beautiful!” he whispered as they kissed.

Somehow as they danced they’d gotten rid of the rest of there clothes and danced their way to the bed. When they stood beside it Harley kissed his throat with open mouth kisses as he pulled her on the bed. As he kissed her again she saw the desire spark in his eyes as she felt her heart began to race.

Gus gently lay her on her stomach and began to massage her back starting with her shoulders and working his way down. While he massage her he place kisses down her spine as he felt her relax as he worked on her lower back he leaned over her and pushed her hair out of the way while he kissed her. “You’re my heart Harley Davidson Cooper.” He said softly as she turned her face toward him and he captured her mouth with his.

“Let me.” she whispered as he lay down on his stomach and Harley gave him the same treatment he gave her. When their passion grew their desire took over she heard him ask

“Do you hear our song?”

A little later as they were waiting for there pulses to settle Gus held her beside him as he kissed her temple.

“I’ll be so happy when you can come home sweetie.” Harley said as she caressed his face, “I miss our closeness.” Gus nodded, “I know babe, me too; and not just like this but our friendship that we have.”

“I love you Harley.” He said laying a hand over his mother’s ring at her neck. Not saying anything for a minute he was quite, “You and the boys mean so much to me; you know that -- you are my family.”

“I know sweetie. Your family wants you home with us.”

“I hate this.” Gus said. Harley kissed him with a kiss that made his heart flip, “Trust me we know that if it weren’t for a good reason to get this D off the streets neither of us would be doing what we are doing.” Harley said. “And we wouldn’t have to be separated.” Gus answered.

“Right.” Harley answered as she kissed him.

Holding her tighter Gus memorized each of Harley’s features just as Harley memorized his as they looked at each other. They each fell asleep in each others arms. As they slept they knew that tonight they wouldn’t have to pretend to be miserable without the other. But tonight in this hotel room they were at peace.

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 11

“Aitoro.” Gus said when he answered his cell phone. “It’s Jeffrey; meet me at the safe house in 15 minutes. This is where you fit in Gus with the plan while Harley’s with Brad. Tell Alan you left files at your hotel, you’re going to get them and work from there the rest of the day and you can be reached on your cell.”<br>
“Okay, why?”

Jeffrey said one word, “Harley.” “I’m on my way.” Gus answered

"Where?” Gus asked a little confused as to why he was being told. “At the safe house.” Jeffrey repeated then hung up.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Safe house

“Okay, I’m here O’Neill what’s going on?” Gus asked. Looking up Jeffrey said, “I need you here with your cop instincts; you know Harley and can recognize any signals that she may give; that you’d recognize that wouldn’t make sense to me.”

“Alright, tell me how she’s wired.” Gus asked as he took off his coat. Picking up a picture of Harley; Jeffrey brought it to Gus and laid it down for him to see. “This is what she’s wearing, the band she has her hair pulled up in has a sound mike in it so we can hear what’s going on. The hair that’s down covers the clear earpiece in her ear. The necklace she’s wearing is a fish wire type the front is the sound mike, the piece that hangs down a little on the back of her neck is the earpiece and when its pulled up it looks like part of the necklace; it wraps around the back of her ear as it fits in her ear.”

“What about when the earpiece is out of her ear?” Gus asked. “When its out of her ear and hanging down it looks like the extension loops for the necklace.” Gus nodded.

“Should Brad take her back to his room my assistant who is undercover at the hotel there has placed a bug in the room for when Harley will take the earpiece out.” Jeffrey said.

“Harley meets with Brad in 45 minutes and she’s nervous.” He replied as he handed Gus the earpiece to wear as he sat down. “Oh Gus I think you should hold on to this.” Jeffrey replied handing him the necklace with Angela’s ring. With a nod he placed the necklace in his pocket. When the two men had set up everything and Gus waited not saying anything; Jeffrey flipped the mike on that allowed her to hear him.

Olivia’s Bar…

“Harley, Its Jeffrey can you hear me alright?” he asked. From her seat in Olivia’s Bar she answered, “Yeah you’re coming in clear, is the mike picking up okay?” she asked. Jeffrey listened, “Yeah they are.”
“Let me say this Jeffrey, you and whatever so called agent you have with you better know the second I give any indication I want out—get me out!!” she said.

Jeffrey smiled, “I gotcha Harley, so does the agent with me.” He said as he watched Gus write something on the pad of paper then show it to him.

Tell her that I called you 10 minutes ago and told you to tell her to be careful!

“Hey Harley?”

“hmmmm.” She answered so no one could see her.

“I’m supposed to give you a message.” He replied

“Which is?” she answered quietly.

“Gus called me 10 minutes ago; he wanted me to tell you to be careful.” She was quiet for a minute, “Was he at work?” “Yeah he was, --- here we go; Brad just walked in.” Jeffrey replied.

Both Jeffrey and Gus slipped their earpieces in as they heard, “Hello Harley, thank you for meeting me, you look fabulous.”

“Hey Brad, thank you. What did you want to talk to me about?” she asked.

“I just wanted to let you know that I’m here, should you want to talk about anything since your breakup with Gus.” he answered.

Brad saw the sadness come into her eyes at the mention of Gus’s name. “It’s just been really hard since he left. So much in the house reminds me of him.” “I’m sorry Harley. How about we get out of here and go to my hotel?” he asked softly. She nodded. He smiled as she stood and he helped her with her coat.

As they left Jeffrey opened her mike so she could him, “We’re still with you Harley.” She smiled at Brad as Gus watched them drive away. Whispering to himself he said, “I’m right here, I’m with you babe.”

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 11 Continued

Brad’s Hotel

As Harley sat on the bed Brad went and fixed them both a drink and brought it back to her. When he sat beside her he lightly kissed her cheek, “Harley, I was thinking that we could get closer know that your not with anyone.” He said. “Brad I don’t know…” Harley started to say but he stopped her with a kiss. While Brad kissed her Harley let herself think about anything but his kisses.

Safe house…

Jeffrey watched Gus as they listened to what was going on in Brad’s hotel room. He remembered watching Gus when they’d heard his last sentence before Brad made his move and Jeffrey had seen Gus’s eyes turn to steel as he snapped a pencil in half.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brad’s…

Harley placed her hands on his shoulders and pushed breaking the kiss. “Brad, can we just slow down a bit please?” she asked as she watched him trying to breathe normally. “Of course, I’m sorry Harley.” He said after he’d begin to breathe again.

“Talk to me, how’s things going at Spaulding?” she asked even as she heard Jeffrey say in her ear, “Go easy here Harley.”

When Gus and Jeffrey heard Brad say, “Everything’s great except we are having a difficult time with a certain drug that comes through the Pharmaceutical Division.” They both sat up straighter and Gus whispered, “Harley babe, help me here sweetie.”

“What’s going on? She asked.

“You don’t want to hear about this.” Brad said lightly. “Honestly Brad, I’d rather hear about whatever the deal is then…” she started to say then stopped. Brad took her hand, “then what Harley?” he asked. Looking up at him she tried to smile as she answered, “– then talk about my break up with Gus.”

He smiled, “Okay maybe you know a way to help.” She nodded as he began talking and telling her the problem. As Brad was telling this too her he wondered if he should be. However, he couldn’t seem to stop he liked talking to her and she was easy to talk to so he kept telling her about the so called problem with Antimonious.

“What about the way it’s being shipped Brad?” Harley asked.

“That’s it Jeffrey!” Gus said. “Good work sweetheart.” He replied turning to look at Jeffrey as the two men sat at the safe house. “Check it out Gus.” Jeffrey replied as Gus stood and went to lean against the far wall as he called someone at Spaulding who knew about the shipments.

When Gus hung up he looked at Jeffrey, “the number I was given to call is somewhere in Russia and I don’t speak Russian!” Gus said frustrated.

“Well don’t look at me!” Jeffrey replied “Hold on, I may know someone that can help.” Gus answered remembering a Spaulding clerk that had come by his office and he was singing in Russian.

Calling back to Spaulding he asked for Demetrius, “Hello.” Demetrius answered. “Hey Demetrius, this is Mr. Aitoro.” “Oh yes, Mr. Gus, what can I help you with?” “I need to talk to someone that is in Russia but I don’t speak Russian, could you help me?” Gus asked.

“I need you to call this number” Gus answered giving the clerk the number then continued, “ask them WHY we didn’t get all of a pharmaceutical shipment we were to get then call me back at this number (435) 555- 8734.”

“Mr. Gus, I’ll make the call immediately and then call you back.” “Thanks Demetrius.” Gus replied as he hung up then walked back to sit down.

“How’s Harley?” he asked as he sat down. “She’s alright, Brad just got a call and went to take it in the other room and she’s trying to get the photos now.” Jeffrey answered. Gus nodded as he slipped his earpiece back in his ear.

“I’m sorry Harley; someone had a question about work.” Brad said as he sat down. “That’s okay.” She answered as Brad pulled her in his arms and held her to him.

Ten minutes later back at the Safe house…

Gus answered his cell when it rang, “Aitoro.” “Mr. Gus, its Demetrius, I talked with the man you wanted me to and he told me that when he sent the shipment it was all there. He said if any is missing it must have happened somewhere between when it was put on the truck and brought here to Spaulding.”

“What?” Gus replied a little confused, “It was the trucking sir.” “How?!” Gus replied trying not to explode.

“Mr. Gus, all I know is what he told me; It was the trucking sir.” Demetrius said flustered.

“Ok thanks.” Gus answered then hung up. Looking up and over at Jeffrey he said, “Apparently the shipment was all there when it was sent, some of the shipment must have disappeared somewhere between the time it was put on the truck and when it arrived at Spaulding.” Jeffrey nodded as Gus sat back down and started listening again. When he didn’t hear anything his eyes flew to Jeffrey.

“Relax Brad got a conference call a few minutes ago and told her it might take a little while then went to take the call.” He answered as he flipped the mike… “Harley are you getting the info?” Jeffrey asked.

Brad’s…

While Harley knelt in front of Brad’s briefcase getting the pictures with her camera phone she heard what Jeffrey asked in her ear.

“Yes!” she whispered, “I think I’m going to throttle you when this is all over.” Jeffrey and Gus smiled when they heard her, before he could reply she whispered, “He’s coming back!”

Harley carefully closed the briefcase and as Brad walked back in the room slipped her phone in her coat pocket and hoped the images would fade.

“I’m sorry that took so long.” Brad said to her as he came back in. “That’s okay.” Harley answered.

“Brad, do you mind if I use your bathroom?” She asked.

“No of course not, go ahead.” He replied as she walked passed him and into the bathroom and closed the door.

While she was in the bathroom Brad walked to the bed to pick up her coat and hang it up on the back of the door when he saw his briefcase wasn’t closed all the way. Not thinking too much about it he picked up the coat; when he did Harley’s phone fell out of the pocket.

When he picked it up he accidentally pressed a button and the screen popped up and he saw the word “Antimonious…

[Shanna]

The D Sting... Chapter 12

Hearing her come out of the bathroom he stood then turned and smiled

“Sorry I was going to hang up your coat and when I did I found your phone.” Brad said as he held the phone where she could see it and she saw that the word “Antimonious” on the screen.

“What’s this?” he asked as he began to take slow steps toward her. Even as he did she began to take steps backwards. Harley kept walking backwards away from Brad as he walked toward her; when her back hit the wall she realized she couldn’t go anywhere else and was trapped.

“What is this?” he asks showing her the phone again. “I don’t know what you are talking about.” Harley replied even as Brad kissed her hard then shook her shoulders. As he shook her shoulders Harley felt her ear piece fall from her ear and hang down her back.

“Why did you want to look through my briefcase Harley?”

Gus and Jeffrey sat straight up, “He knows she’s after the pictures of his shipment papers Jeffrey, get her out NOW or I swear I’ll go to Brad myself.” Gus growled.

Jeffrey nodded as he opened Harley’s mike, “Harley can you hear me what’s going on?” he asked.

As they listened all they heard was open air. Gus hit the table with the side of his fist as he snarled, “NO!!! O’Neill?!” “I’m working on it Aitoro, just cool your jets until I get more information on the situation.” Jeffrey answered as he talked with his assistant.

Gus slipped the earpiece back in to listen just as he heard Harley say, “I just noticed the briefcase open and wanted to make sure you didn’t loose anything important so I closed it.” She replied hoping he’d buy it as she tried to stay calm.

“Nice try Harley, but this is a camera phone and you have photos of documents here dealing with Antimonious; now we can’t have that.” Brad replied as he slapped her hard and knocked her on the bed. When she tried to sit up she whispered on a plea, “Gus.”

Tears sprang to Gus’s eyes as he heard the crack of the slap and her whispered plea through his earpiece. “I’m here Harley, hold on babe I’m going to help, I’m coming just think of me.” He whispered as he closed his eyes and continued to listen.

“What did you say?” Brad screamed.

“I said Brad!” Harley repeated as she tried to cover. “No, you said Gus!” Brad replied eyes flashing as he pulled her to him and held her by the arms; his hands holding tight enough to leave finger imprints on both arms.

Back at the Safe house…

Jeffrey watched as Gus paced back and forth, “We have to get her Now O’Neill” Gus said stopping in front of him. “We’re checking it out, my assistant will call me back in a few minutes then we’ll activate the plan to get her out I promise.”

“She may not have a few minutes; Green sounds like he’s a time bomb ready to explode.” Gus shouted.

They continued to listen when Brad said, “I get it now, you and Gus tried to pull one over on me to make me think you broke up but never did.” Harley answered as she held her hand to her bruising cheek

“Yes Brad, we really broke up! But Gus was my best friend and has always been there when I needed him. His name just slipped out.”

“Ok Harley, you and Gus will pay for trying to con me, Get up!” Brad said as he handed her; her coat and when she put it on both Gus and Jeffrey heard static over her earpiece as the coat covered it. While she was putting the coat on Brad was at the bar with his back to her as he retrieved a small vile of “Delirium” and slipped it into his front pants pocket.

Turning and grabbing her by the arm Brad pulled her out the door and down the stairs

“Now when we reach the lobby we are going to smile as I lead you out got it?” Brad asked. Harley nodded as she felt him put his arm around her and begin to lead her to the lobby.

When they reached the lobby she smiled as she asked, “Where are we going sweetie.” Brad looked at her and smiled as he answered, “somewhere special.” Harley glanced over at the hotel clerk on duty knowing it was Jeffrey’s assistant; Harley watched her as she looked at her then turned away and spoke to a person in the back and they disappeared. Then Brad and Harley walked out of the hotel.

Once they were through the door Jeffrey’s assistant called him, “Jeffrey, Harley’s left, she tipped me off something was wrong by asking where he was taken her.” Brad answered somewhere special then led her out of the hotel but she doesn’t know where.

Back at the Safe house…

When Jeffrey took the call from his assistant about Harley and just as Harley was being led from the hotel Gus felt a cold chill run down his spine…