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Post by Shanna on Mar 28, 2005 22:24:03 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 15
When Frank came in he saw Gus sitting at a table with papers and things spread all over the place furiously working. Going over to see Buzz he sat down.
“Hey Dad, how long has Gus been like that?” he asked motioning his head toward Gus.
“About an hour.” He said as he continued to watch him. Both men could hear occasional murmurs of “How?” After a few minutes Frank looked at his dad, “I’m going to go shower I’ll be back down in a little while.” He said as he stood and went upstairs.
Buzz picked up a cup of coffee and walked over setting it down in front of Gus. “Here ya go.”<br> “Thanks Buzz.” He answered without looking up. Sometime later he looked, up, “Where’s Frank?” Buzz walked over and sat down, "he’s in the shower he’ll be down in a bit.”
He stopped Gus’ furious writing and he looked up, “What?"
“You came in here tonight and looked like you were ready to hit something; what happened?” Buzz asked.
Gus laid his head on his hands and let out a weary breath before he looked back at her father.
“We were leaving the office when Frank got a call from the station and wanted me to come with him. When we got there an officer told us that Harley had gotten upset and was as he said 'shutting down' Frank and I went to her and she was rocking back and forth. Frank let me in with her and I calmed her down and then she told us she had a visitor.”<br> “Visitor?” Buzz questioned
“Alan.” Gus said simply. “Anyway she told us what he’d said and after we left Frank lent me his car and I went to see him.”
Buzz nodded as he waited for Gus to continue, “I asked him if he enjoyed himself and he smiled and said yes. I then asked if he enjoyed taunting, terrifying, and belittling her.”<br> “He said he did right?” Buzz asked. Gus nodded, “When I asked why he said because she wasn’t worth it and she took his sons.”<br> “Why would a father do that to his son?” Gus asked looking at Buzz with bleak eyes.
“A very lonely man would do that to his son, by taunting, terrifying, and belittling the woman he loves. He’s lonely Gus; he doesn’t have a love like you and Harley have.” “He did with Lucia.” Gus whispered.
“But he let that go.”
“Don’t most fathers' want their children to be happy?” Gus wondered.
“Yes if they sincerely love their children.” Buzz said quietly.
“Buzz I’ll tell ya I was ready to punch Alan ---.” Gus let the sentence die. “But you couldn’t could you.” Buzz stated. He shook his head, “For everything he’s put me and Harley through I wanted too.” “Gus, he’s your father biologically that’s why you couldn’t.” "He’s not who as I see as my dad though.” Buzz nodded, “I understand. What did you do after that?”
“I told him it wasn’t worth it. As I turned to leave he called my name when I reached the door I turned to look at him and said, “Mr. Spaulding, it’s not worth it to me.” Then I left the study, left the mansion.”<br> Gus looked at Buzz, “I'm sorry I shouldn’t have bored you with my problems.” Buzz gestured to stop with his hands, “Stop, Gus you are part of my family, you love my daughter. I’m here for my family.”<br> He smiled a small smile, “Thanks.” Placing a hand on his shoulder Buzz stood, “Anytime.”
Going back to his thoughts and papers Gus began to work again but when he heard Frank’s voice looked up, “Frank come here… you need to know something.”
Frank stood from the counter and went to him and sat down, “Did you see Alan?”
Gus nodded, “Yeah I did but it’s not Alan I want to tell you about. Do you remember the night you asked me to come to the station because the witness was there?” Frank nodded, “Yeah.”<br> “Ok well after I got back here, from seeing your sister I didn’t come in right away because Alan was here and didn’t want to see him. Anyway after he left I came in but one of his employees was still here. After I’d gotten some coffee I turned around just as the guy’s phone was ringing. He answered it but just kept saying, “Yeah” but he was writing something down at the same time then ripped the sheet of paper off and ran out of here.”<br> “So?” Frank remarked still watching Gus’ face.
“Well earlier tonight when I went to confront Alan… the same guy was there and I heard him tell Alan, “But Mr. Spaulding I did what you asked about Phillip.” Frank’s eyes widened a bit and Gus continued, “I didn’t want to get caught listening so I pounded on the door jamb as I stormed in, the guy left and I talked to Alan. Afterward though I remembered putting that paper pad in my briefcase so when I got back here I went through my briefcase until I found it. When I began looking at the pad closer I saw there were imprint marks… like the guy had pressed down as he wrote. So I grabbed a pencil and started shading over the imprint and this is what popped out as I did. "Mr. Spaulding needs blanks to replace what was used… Phil” Gus said as he showed Frank the pad of paper.
Frank stared at the message for a minute. “Okay wait a minute, the witness said he heard 2 shots so --” he said and stopped as he ran this scenario. Gus picked up where Frank stopped, “so we know the second shot was what killed Phillip which means the wound in the shoulder had to have been from the blank. Which means Alan had to have known Phillip was planning that meeting and was going to help him leave the country so he had someone shoot him so he could find Phillip --.”
Frank interrupted, “But why did Alan change his mind.” “That’s what we have to figure out and pr---.” Gus was saying but stopped when he heard one of the boys scream his name.
Jumping up, both men took the stairs two at a time. Gus reached their room first and ran in. He saw Jude sitting in bed crying and when the little boy saw Gus, reached for him.
“I’m here buddy.” He replied picking him up. Jude buried his face in Gus’ chest. “Did you have a scary dream?” He felt Jude nod against him. He stood and quietly walked and talked to him as he rubbed his back.
“Is he okay Gus?” Frank wondered from the doorway, Gus turned his head and nodded, “Yeah he’ll be okay.” He whispered so he wouldn’t wake Zach. Giving his attention back to Jude; Gus forgot Frank was there even as he watched from the door.
“I miss mommy.” Jude mumbled sleepily as Gus walked to the rocker in the corner and sat down and slowly began to rock. “I know you do buddy. All her guys miss her, you miss her, your brother misses her, and I miss her.” He said quietly as he laid Jude on his back and rocked.
“You miss mommy?” he asked.
Gus nodded, “I sure do, very much.” From the doorway Frank heard the answer and watched as Gus slowly began to rock the little boy back to sleep again.
Watching for another minute Frank turned and went downstairs and to his dad.
When Buzz saw his son he asked, “Is Jude okay?” He nodded, “He just had a bad dream.” He replied getting him a drink. Seeing that Frank wasn’t moving Buzz looked at him even as his son continued to stare at the steps.
“Frank what is it?”
“He’s so good with the boys’ dad.” Frank said quietly. “He loves them Frank.” He nodded.
A few minutes later Gus came down, “I need to check on my family.” Frank knew where he wanted to be, “Tell them you have permission from the chief.” Gus nodded his thanks then talked to Buzz for a minute, “I’ll be back in an hour.” He replied then was gone.
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Station…
He reached the holding cells and looked at the officer, “I have permission from Chief Cooper to be here.” Gus replied. The officer nodded then Gus continued, “I’ll only be here a few minutes.” He said and walked away.
Reaching Harley’s cell, he looked in and saw she was sleeping then sat down outside. Gus watched as she slept. He didn’t know how long he sat there but as he watched her he whispered, “My family is safe.”
Gus staggered as he got to his feet and with one last look at Harley he softly said, “I love you.” Then he went to the door. As he walked by the officer he stopped him, “Detective Aitoro, are you okay you look really beat.”<br> “I’m fine officer.” Gus replied as he headed out and back to Company to continue working and running theories.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 3, 2005 15:36:37 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 16
He worked furiously going over what he already knew about what they had on Alan and tried out new scenarios as he wrote them down.
“Here’s lunch Gus.” Frank stated as he set something down in front of him and then pulling a chair on the other side of the desk he was using sat down himself.
“I’m not hungry.” He said. “You have to eat Gus, if you don’t keep your strength up you are going to pass out.” Frank stated. “Don’t look at me that way.” he remarked when Gus shot him a dirty look. “You look pretty beat and worn out now.
“I’ll be fine once I have your sister back with me.” He said pushing aside the lunch that Frank brought to him.
As Frank ate they talked, “I can’t figure out why Alan would want to kill Phillip Gus?” he replied. “He wouldn’t – Phil was his favorite son remember?” Frank saw coolness come in Gus’ eyes as he answered.
“You okay?”
He nodded, “Yeah, Frank there is something you need to know before we continue and if ya want to hit me after you know that’s okay.”<br> Frank looked at him, “What?”<br> “The night Phil was shot I found Harley outside Company dazed and confused –.” “I know this Gus she was dressed as Ruth.” Frank said. He nodded then continued, “What you don’t know is that I still have that one ‘Ruth disguise’ that the witness saw that night.”
“Where?” Frank wondered.
“In the closet at Harley’s Angels Office; in the back right corner.”<br> “Okay, I’m going to get it,” Frank said as he stood, “then you can tell me why and we can talk some more.” Gus nodded as he watched her brother walk away and got back to work.
Looking up a few minutes later, he glanced at the food sitting there and felt his stomach roll; grimacing he looked away. After throwing it away he sat down slowly and took a long drink of the water he’d gotten while he’d been up.
Closing his eyes, Gus leaned back hoping he would stop hurting so bad. He was tired but knew he hadn’t hurt this bad yesterday. Frank walked back in and stopped completely when he saw Gus. Something was wrong, he could see it. Turning around he called his dad.
“Dad, it's me could you come down here?” Frank asked. “Okay see you in a few minutes.” He replied then hung up and continued to watch.
A few minutes later, Buzz saw his son and went to him, “Frank what’d you need?”
He pointed over to where he’d been watching, “Dad I think he’s sick but won’t give in and let himself be sick so he can get better.” Buzz nodded in agreement.
“Can you wait here for a while?” Frank asked. Buzz nodded and stood off to the side where only Frank could see him as he walked back to Gus.
“I’m back Gus.” Frank said as he walked up. He opened his eyes, “Did you find it?”<br> “Yeah now tell me why you had it?” Frank requested as he sat down. “When I saw her outside she was dazed and confused and we talked for a bit. She reached up to scratch her head and when she pulled her hand back it was covered with blood. I moved the wig and got the blood off as we talked. I asked if she remembered shooting Phillip and she told me she didn’t remember. Harley then told me she had to tell you. I stopped her and told her not too.”
“Why Gus?” Frank wondered.
“Because at the time I’m the only person who knew your sister was ‘Ruth’ and I knew you were looking for Ruth Karloff. So, after she told me what she remembered I talked her out of telling you and got the disguise off her and then you came up to tell us about Phillip then I got the phone call and left to get the boys. When I came back I got the bag and while she was with the boys I left and went to the Angel’s office and put the disguise in the closet.”<br> Frank we need to talk to Harley again.”
He nodded, “I’ll go get her and meet you in the interrogation room.” Gus nodded and started to stand but swayed a little, catching himself as Frank watched. Shooting his dad a look Buzz walked up, “Something is wrong, I’ll wait here until you want me to come in.” he answered as Frank nodded and left to get Harley.
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“Sis.” Frank called stopping at the door. She looked up, “Yeah?”
“I need to talk to you about something and I have to do it upstairs in the interrogation room.” Harley’s eyes got wide as she stood, “O-Okay.” She said quietly as Frank unlocked the door and stepped inside and took her by the arm just as Officer Parker walked up.
With someone on both sides of her they walked her upstairs and to the interrogation room then the officer turned and left.
Opening the door, Frank led her inside and sat her down. She didn’t see Gus standing in the door of the evidence cage. Closing the door Frank turned and nodded
“Harley?”<br> She turned quickly when she heard the voice. Seeing him brought tears to her eyes. Looking quickly at her brother he smiled and she jumped up as Gus opened his arms. She wrapped her arms around him and held on as did he.
“Oh, you feel so good.” He whispered as he kissed her hair then kissed her. Not able to say anything she nodded against him when he broke the kiss.
“Sis we do need to talk to you --- You can sit across from Gus.” Frank stated as he watched Gus help her sit down then take a seat himself.
“Harley, Frank and I are working on a lead about the night Phillip was murdered but we need your help honey.” Gus said quietly.
“Anything, How?” she replied.
“We need you to try and remember what happened that night.” Frank asked.
“I have to check on something, I’ll be back.” Her brother said leaving them.
Gus looks a Harley, “Baby you have to try and remember. What else you remember could help us with this lead.”
She nodded, “I know… I told you what I remember---.” She stopped when she got a good look at him.
“Sweetie are you ok?” she wondered. He nodded, “Yeah I’m fine babe.” He answered caressing her cheek.
Just then Frank walked back in with Buzz behind him. “Daddy?” Harley questioned, “What are you doing here?”<br> “Moral support.” He answered as he winked at her then stood by the door so he could see Harley but keep an eye on Gus.
Frank and Gus slowly took Harley through that night step by step as Harley answered their questions again.
“You looked through my bag Gus.” He nodded “Then you …” she stopped as she glanced at her brother then at Gus. “I know about the disguise that night sis. Frank responded.
She looked at Gus, he nodded as he started to stand and they all watched as he swayed and staggered before catching the table to stop himself.
“Gus?” Harley said.
When he looked at her, her face swam in front of him as he reached toward her. Still reaching toward her he tried to look at her again, “Harley.” He said as he collapsed…<br>
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Post by Shanna on Apr 3, 2005 15:38:56 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 17
When he looked at her, her face swam in front of him as he reached toward her. Still reaching toward her he tried to look at her again, “Harley.” He said as he collapsed…
“Gus…Gus!!!” Harley called as she watched him collapse. Standing Frank yelled “Parker, Jackson in here NOW!”
Trying to go to him Frank stopped his sister by holding her arm even as she saw her father kneel beside him.
When the officers came in Frank looked at them, “Jackson call an ambulance now! Parker, take her back to holding!” he barked the orders. “Frankie NO!!” Harley said crying; never taking her eyes from the man who held her heart.
“I’m sorry sis I have too.” He responded. Buzz looked up at her with sad eyes, “Daddy?” she whispered.
“I’ve got him baby… I’ll take care of him now.”<br> “Gus, I love you!” Harley said loudly.
“Parker, get her out of here, but stay with her.” Frank said staring at her. The officer nodded as she all but had to drag Harley away from Gus.
Buzz slightly shook him, “Gus, its Buzz, show me you can hear me.” But he didn’t move. Frank knelt beside them just as Officer Jackson opened the door, “Chief the ambulance is two minutes away.” He nodded.
“Come on back, don’t leave Harley now.” Buzz said trying to get some reaction.
Just then the paramedics came in, “Chief what happened?” one asked even as they got to work. “This is Detective Gus Aitoro and he just collapsed while we were questioning someone. The paramedic nodded as they continued to work.
“Dad, be right back.” Frank stated as he walked around the men and out the door.
Seeing Jackson Frank stopped him, “Tell Parker that I’ll keep her updated." He nodded just as he stopped and stared then Frank noticed the other officers were standing and watching so he turned and also watched as the paramedics lifted Gus onto the gurney and they took him to the ambulance.
“Frank I’m riding with him, I’ll meet you there.” Buzz replied as he followed them outside. Without another word Frank went to his car and followed the ambulance to the hospital.
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“Rick!” Buzz called even as he nodded, “I got it Buzz I’ll be out when I know something.” Rick replied as he disappeared through the exam room doors.
Buzz sagged against the wall and ran a hand over his face, “Gus I’m here.” He whispered as Frank came through the doors.
“Dad?!”<br> “Here Frank.” He answered as Frank turned. “What about Gus?”<br> “I don’t know yet.” Buzz answered. “Hello Buzz.” Alan said walking up. “What are you doing here?” Frank wondered. “I was checking on some business here.” Alan stated.
“What about you?” he wondered. “Someone in my family collapsed today.” Buzz answered shooting Alan a look daring him to question. “Gus?” Alan wondered. He nodded, “He collapsed helping me with something at the station.” Frank answered before Buzz could.
Just then Rick walked out, “Buzz, Frank come with me.” Alan stopped Rick, “I’m his father.” Rick glanced at him but looked back at Buzz, “Gus has suffered from a nasty bout of the flu.”<br> “The flu?” Buzz looked surprised. Rick nodded, “I’m assuming he’s had a cold recently?” Buzz answered, “Zach was sick a couple of weeks ago.”
“That explains it – he caught Zach’s cold and since he apparently ignored it; it worsened and developed into the flu. What I’m worried about is that he also is suffering from severe exhaustion.”<br> “Rick, he hasn’t eaten too much and I noticed he’s been tired and hurting lately.” Frank stated. “He’s hurting because with the flu he’s achy and sore. Right now he has a temp of 102 and I want that to come down. With the flu and exhaustion combined that’s what caused him to collapse today. I’m recommending he stay in the hospital for three days. It’s mainly his exhaustion symptoms I’m watching. I want him to get plenty of rest / sleep, start eating to get his strength back up. I’ll start him on a vitamin booster. We’ll see how he is in three days and go from there.” Rick finished.
A nurse came to them, “Dr. Bauer Mr. Aitoro came too long enough to ask for his dad.” Alan looked surprised but Buzz didn’t. “Did he ask for Buzz or Mr. Spaulding?” Rick wondered.
“His dad Buzz.” The nurse answered. Alan looked shocked, “But—.” He started to say but Rick interrupted him, “Go on in Buzz. I’ll be in; in just a few minutes to see him.”
Buzz nodded and left to go to Gus. Alan started toward the door to Gus’s room when Frank stopped him. “He still doesn’t want you around Alan, I suggest you leave and do as I suggested once before, “Leave him alone.” Frank responded leading him to the door outside.
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Buzz quietly went in and sat down next to him and just looked at him for a minute. “Gus?” he said softly. He opened his eyes, “What happened?” “You collapsed.” Buzz answered.
“Harley I have to get back to her.”<br> Buzz moved to sit facing him on the side of the bed, “No, I promised her I was going to take care of you, Gus. Just lay still; you collapsed because you have the flu--.”<br> “—the flu doesn’t require hospital stay.” Gus began to say and saw Buzz nod, “No it doesn’t but when you are also suffering from severe exhaustion the combination together does.” Buzz finished.
“Exhaustion?” Gus asked. Tiredly he laid back; he knew he was too weak. “Yeah you have been admitted for three days.”
“But Harley!” he began. Buzz looked at him, “Harley wouldn’t want you to get any sicker than you are Gus. Let me take care of you and get you better before she’s after both of us.” Buzz replied on a small laugh.
“Just sleep Gus let your body recuperate from the stress.” Her dad asked. Rick came in, “Gus before you sleep I need to do two things, First, I’m giving you a vitamin booster then some medicine that will help the flu symptoms… then I want you to sleep.” he remarked giving him the vitamin booster shot. Second, I need to know if you want Alan okayed as a visitor.”<br> “No.” he answered in a weak voice. “Okay I’ll let the staff know.” Rick replied “Buzz, Frank wants to see you for a minute.” He nodded and stood.
“Come back.” Gus asked softly. “I will.” He answered as he went out to Frank.
“Dad I’m going to see sis and then go home.” Buzz nodded. “I’m staying here tonight and if the boys wonder; explain that Gus got sick but he’s fine and will be home in a few days.” Frank nodded. He watched as his son left and then turned to head back to the man he considered a son.
Opening the door he went in and sat down in the chair just as Gus opened his eyes, “Everything okay?”
He nodded, “Frank was just letting me know he was going.”
“He’s going to check on Harley?” Gus asked. “Yeah and then go home and be with the boys.” Buzz said.
“Buzz you need to be home.” He said. “No, I need to be here.” Buzz said seeing Gus’s eyes brighten with tears.
“Just sleep Gus I’ll be here if you need me.” He answered as he laid a hand on his shoulder and watched as he closed his eyes and let sleep take him.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 3, 2005 15:42:30 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 18
To my readers: This particular chapter fits with my story but does not parallel with the show. Chapter 19 will pick up with the show and where we are. Story wise for this chapter it follows where Chapter 17 was. I wasn't planning on a chapter like this... but somehow it just seemed fitting for the story. Hope you enjoy! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Harley paced up and down inside the cell holding her hands which felt cold and bloodless in a tight ball. All she could see in her mind as she paced was Gus reaching for her as he collapsed. She felt like she was watching outside herself as she paced and time crawled by as she waited to hear about Gus.
“Harley, he’ll be okay.” Officer Parker said quietly as she sat in the chair. She wouldn’t have left her even if the Chief hadn’t ordered it.
Have you heard anything?”<br> “Nothing further than when the chief called to say Gus was stable. I’m sure he’s on his way back here to let you know something. They both waited in silence for a while.
Several Officers looked up as the chief walked through the bullpen, “Chief, how’s Aitoro.” One asked. “Not yet,” Frank answered as he kept walking, the officers nodded knowing Harley was his first stop.
Hearing footsteps Parker looked up as she saw the chief coming toward her. Stepping quietly away she waited even as he stopped, “Sis?”
She turned quickly and went to him, “Gus?” she asked trying to hold tears back.
“Sweetie, he should be okay in several days.” Harley let out the breath she was holding without realizing it just as one hot tear slid from her eye. “Why’d he collapse Frank?”<br> “Harley, Gus is suffering from the flu and severe exhaustion.
“Exhaustion?” she replied her eyes bleak. “Hang on let me finish. Apparently he caught Zach’s cold and he ignored it and it worsened to the flu. Rick has admitted him to the hospital for at least three days to make sure the temperature he has comes down and to watch the exhaustion symptoms, Rick wants to make sure he sleeps and to eat so his strength can come back.”<br> “Can I see him Frank?” Harley wondered.
“I called the warden on my way back and explained the situation and he’s agreed to 30 minutes once we were at the hospital, I just came to get you. Parker I want you to follow with her.” Frank stated.
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At the hospital…
“Sis, Parker and I have to wait here.” Frank said then continued, “Dad’s at the cafeteria… go on in.”<br> She nodded and quietly slipped through the doors. Seeing the man she loved laying there broke her heart. Even in sleep she could see the lines of fatigue and the shades of tiredness on his face. Going to him she slowly ran her hand up his arm. “O babe I’m sorry.” She whispered brushing hair off his forehead.
Gus slowly opened his eyes and watched her, “Harley?” he whispered. She smiled, “Shhh don’t talk… just sleep honey. They’re only letting me stay a few minutes.” She replied facing him as she sat on the bed. Harley laid her hand on his chest and slowly began to rub over his heart.
“I love you Coop.”
She smiled and leaned over him and softly placed her lips over his, “I love you too. I’m sorry you’re in here because of me.” He shook his head and mouthed “No.” as he fought sleep. She saw he was fighting to stay awake. “I know about the exhaustion Gus so I just want you to close your eyes and sleep.” She replied as she rubbed over his chest gently as he closed his eyes. She sat with him and watched him until Frank stuck his head through the door and whispered
“Sis, times up I have to send you back.” Harley nodded as she carefully stood and turning back to Gus she placed a soft kiss on his mouth and murmured “I love you.” as she caressed his cheek.
Frank led her out and to Parker, “Harley, I’m going home to see the boys so Parker will take you back. “What about Gus?” she wondered.
“Dad’s with him. He’ll be okay.” Frank stated as he watched them leave then Buzz walked up. “Did she see him?” Frank nodded. “Okay I’ll be with Gus.” he replied as he went back to to Gus' room.
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Buzz sat in the recliner and watched him sleep for a minute then fell asleep. Sometime later Buzz wasn’t sure what woke him but looked over at Gus who was still sleeping. Buzz was surprised when he looked over and saw a quiet figure standing in the corner watching him.
Slowly the man walked toward the bed and stared at Gus. Buzz noticed that the man had yet to say a word so he just watched. The man touched his face then frowned at what he saw there. He turned and looked at Buzz then walked around the bed and stood a few feet in front of him. Both men stared at each other then the man looked worriedly back at Gus.
Buzz had an idea who he was staring at so quietly he asked, “Joe?” He turned and smiled. Still not saying anything Joe placed a hand over his sleeping son’s heart then pointed to Buzz.
“I know he loves me.” Buzz answered. “He may not be my son-in-law but he means a lot to me Joe.”<br> Joe nodded then motioned with a finger between them. “Is that why you’re here; because you knew I’d need your help.” Buzz wondered. Joe mouthed, “Needs You.” nodded and pointing back at him.
“No, he needs us both.” Buzz replied standing and placing a hand on Gus’ arm Joe understood and went to the other side and did the same thing. Looking up Joe smiled and mouthed, “Father to Father.” Buzz nodded, “We’ll take care of him for you.” Joe smiled and faded from sight.
“Buzz?” Gus asked sleepily. “I’m here.” “Can I have some water?” Gus asked. Buzz poured a cup of water and helped him as he drank it. “Was Harley really here?” Gus whispered.
“Yes she was.”
“I’m still so tired,” Gus said as looked at Buzz. “I know, just go back to sleep I’ll be here I promise son.” He said. And Gus reached for Buzz’s hand as he fell asleep.
At the Station…
He watches as she sleeps and gently sits on the cot beside her. “Harley, my son loves you very much.” Joe replied as he gently touched her hair.
He smiled, “Father to Father.” He whispered as he sat on the floor by her to watch over Buzz’s daughter like Buzz was watching over his son.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 3, 2005 15:45:30 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 19
Hey, Everybody! As promised this chapter picks up with the show but it also has picked up where Chapter 18 was. This turned out differently then I planned…Hope you enjoy! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Your temperature is slowly going down Gus which is good but you’re still sore and achy aren’t you?” Rick asked.
He nodded tiredly when Rick finished. “What I see in your charts is a good sign, you’re getting the meds you need and the flu’s getting better and it shows that you are hungry enough to eat which is good; you are slowly beginning to get some strength back.” Rick replied.
Buzz quietly came in as they continued talking and sat down placing a hand on his shoulder.
“If I’m getting my strength back Rick why am I still so tired and feel weak?”<br> “Because you wore yourself down Gus to the point your body just couldn’t take it anymore. You were sick with Zach’s cold and ignored it. Plus all the stuff you were doing about Harley … so basically your system and body said stop and that’s why you collapsed. So now sleep is what it needs and that’s why even awake you still feel as you do.”
“So what now?” Gus questioned.
“Sleep and eat.” Buzz responded before Rick could. The doctor nodded in agreement then left them alone.
“Why are you still here Buzz, How long have I been here?” Gus wondered. “Because I promised Harley when you collapsed I’d be with you. You are ending your second day here.”<br> “The boys, what about them?” Gus wondered as he looked at the older man. He nodded, “If you’ll hush I’ll fill you in okay since you’re worried.”
Gus nodded and shut up as Buzz began, “The boys are okay. They know your in the hospital and want you to get better so you can come home. Coop and Marina are with them right now and Frank will check in about an hour or so.” Gus closed his eyes imagining the boys’ reactions to knowing he was here.
“Go on.” He said quietly.
Buzz watched as he continued, “Then I went to see Harley to let her know how you were. She can’t believe you ended up in the hospital because of her.” “But I didn’t.” Gus said quietly. “I told her that. But she doesn’t see that… she knows that you and Frank have been working to get her free. She doesn’t want you to make yourself ill because of her.”
Gus looked at her father, “I’d do anything for her.” He nodded, “I know you would. That’s where we differ unfortunately. You’re the type of man that would do anything for those you love no matter what and I’m the type that when it gets to be too tough wants to high tail it out of town.” Buzz replied.
“Not anymore Buzz, you hold the Coopers together.” Her father smiled as he sat. “As for Harley that’s why she needs both of us,” Gus said softly. “She needs the strong silent type she has in her father and the man that will do anything to protect her because he loves her more than anything.”
“What about Frank?” Buzz wondered with a smile in his eyes.
“I won’t tell if you won’t.” Gus answered as he fought sleep. Buzz laughed softly, “He won’t hear it from me. Now just sleep Gus; I’ll be here if you need me.” He said watching as his breath became deep and even.
At the Station…
Frank sat at his desk going over the Phillip Spaulding murder piece by piece. He knew he and Gus were overlooking something that linked Alan to Phillip’s murder. Leaning back in his chair Frank thought out loud
“Why would Alan want to kill Phillip?”
Glancing at the clock he saw the time and stood. He left out of his office and went to check on Harley. Reaching her cell he saw that she was asleep. “I’ll find out the truth sis I swear.” Frank said softly not seeing the man quietly sitting in the corner of her cell keeping watch. Taking one last look at his sister Frank went back to his office.
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Back at the hospital…
Gus jerked awake as he came out of the dream he was having. Looking over he saw Buzz was asleep and ran his hands over his face. “I don’t ever want to have that dream again. Loosing her would hurt beyond anything I could ever imagine.” He whispered.
Sitting there for a minute Gus stared into space as he softly said, “I have to see her.”<br> Uncovering, he swung his feet over the side and began to take the IV that was being used to make sure he didn’t get dehydrated out of his arm. Once it was out he slowly but as quietly as possible got dressed. Taking one last look at Buzz whispered, “Sorry.” After making sure no one was around Gus slipped out of the hospital and went to the station.
Reaching the door that led to the holding cells he opened it and the officer turned, “Aitoro what are you doing here, you look beat.”
“I’m fine, I need to see Harley.”
The officer nodded as Gus slowly made his way to her cell. Watching him the officer called the chief. Harley had heard the officer when he said Gus’ name so after wiping sleep from her eyes she sat up just as he reached her.
At the same time, Buzz turned and opened his eyes to check on Gus before going back to sleep. Seeing the empty bed he jumped up figuring he was in the bathroom; checked but Gus wasn’t there. Just then Rick came in to check on him. When he saw the bed; he looked at Buzz, “Where?”<br> He shrugged his shoulders and Rick headed for the door. The older man then realized where he must have gone. “Ahh Gus. Rick, wait I think I know where Gus went.”
Seeing the look on Buzz’s face Rick stopped, “Harley?” He nodded and both he and Rick left the hospital.
“Ahh Gus what are doing here?” Harley asked as she went to him. “You’re supposed to be in the hospital, honey,” she said as she stuck a hand through the bars to check for a fever. “You’re pale, shaky, you still have a fever---.” Gus interrupted her, “I had to see you. I had a dream I’d lost you.”
Standing quietly Joe frowned when he saw his son, he still didn’t look to good and he was using the bars to help himself stay standing.
“I’m here but baby you have to go back to the hospital.” Harley replied.
“She’s right Gus, you need to go back.” Buzz answered coming up beside him. “I had to see her.” “I know but now she’s gonna be mad at both of us, right baby?” he said giving her a glance as both he and Frank helped him sit down.” Harley nodded and tried to smile as she fought tears.
“Sweetie, let Daddy take you back to the hospital so you can get better. I want you to get better.” She remarked.
“I love you Coop.” Gus replied. “I love you too.” she replied blowing him a kiss.
“Daddy take him back.” He nodded that he would and Buzz helped him up and without asking helped steady Gus as he walked to the bars and leaned in to kiss her. As Buzz steadied him he saw Joe standing behind Harley. With a slight nod to him her father walked with Gus out of the station.
Harley watched as they walked out and after wiping the tears away went back to the cot and lay down. “I know what I need to do.” She said to herself as she laid down and went to sleep once again.
A little later, Joe stood and quietly went and sat beside her on the cot and after pulling the cover up around her he gently ran his hand over her hair. “Gus?” she whispered and turned to see him but it wasn’t him she saw.
“Don’t be scared.” He mouthed as she looked up at him and he smiled.
“I’m not.” Harley answered. She knew this had to only be one person, “Joe?” she asked. He nodded and he moved as she turned over then he sat on the floor by her, “I have to let him go.” She said looking at Gus’ dad. “He won’t leave you no matter what you do.” Joe mouthed.
“Why?”
He stared at her because he knew she knew the answer. “Because he loves me.” She whispered. His dad nodded, “Sleep sweetheart.” She nodded as he watched her eyes close. Staying with her he placed a hand over hers as she slept.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 7, 2005 21:50:43 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 20
Parking his car in front of Company Frank jumped out; went around and opened the passenger side door then holding on to his arm as he slowly got out helped Gus from the car.
“Take it easy?” Frank said as Coop ran out and got Gus’ bag then standing behind him with a hand on his shoulder helped as Frank walked with him slowly to the door.
Gus looked over his shoulder at Coop and before he could say anything Coop replied, “We’re clear.” Gus nodded and together all three men made there way inside.
Inside Buzz stopped when he saw them, “Hey Gus.” Frank and Coop helped him sit before he answered, “Hey where are the boys?” he asked. Buzz came around the counter and knelt in front of him when he reached him
“The boys are upstairs Frank and Coop can get them in a minute. First you have to hear me out. Gus you should still be in the hospital for a few more days after that stunt you pulled sneaking out---.”<br> “I know--,” Gus started to say but saw the look in the older man’s eyes and went silent so Buzz could continue
“--You set yourself back, the only reason Rick released you now; albeit against your better judgment is because I told him I’d make sure you’d follow his instructions completely since you are still weak from the exhaustion symptoms and the recovery from the flu.” Buzz said.
“I was going crazy in the hospital Buzz. And this way I can help Frank figure out who framed Harley.” Gus stated. “I know you were, but you have to take it easy until your body can catch up. As for helping Frank, that’s up to him.”
Gus turned to look at him, “I’m with dad on this, and the first priority for you is to get better.” Gus interrupted him, “my first priority is Harley.” He remarked. “No Gus!” Frank said emphatically, “your first priority is getting better so you can be there for sis and the boys. As far as helping me you can – but I decide when and with what or we have no deal.” He stated.
When Gus nodded that they had a deal Frank looked at his dad as he said, “I’ll take your bag up Gus and get the boys.” Coop stood, “I’ll go with you.” He said as they went upstairs.
Buzz slowly closed his hand over Gus’ hand that was on his knee. “Gus you’re going to have to start sleeping on a bed until you’re completely better. Now Frank said he’d swap rooms with you or you can stay where you are and use the bed.”<br> “Harley.” He whispered. Her father nodded just as the boys came downstairs.
“Gus, Gus!!” Zach said when he saw him. “Hey little man,” He answered as he reached to take him from Frank. “Are you better?” the little boy wondered. “No but slowly I will be; and I wanted to be home with you guys.” Gus answered then tickled Jude’s cheek and made him laugh.
Buzz looked at the boys, “Hey Guys, I’m gonna need your help.” He replied. “What Grandpa?” Zach asked. “Well Uncle Rick let Gus come home but he made me promise to take care of him… I’m going to need your help.”<br> Zach looked at Gus and he saw he was watching him, “We’ll help... right Jude? The little boy asked looking at his brother. Jude nodded and wiggled out of Coop’s arms to stand beside Gus.
“Come on Gus we’ll help you upstairs.” Zach replied as both boys slipped their little hands around his as he stood up. Slowly and carefully they walked with him up the stairs.
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Meanwhile…<br> Harley sat Indian style on her cot with a pen and a pad of paper in her lap. She knew what she had to do in order to keep Gus safe and healthy but she didn’t know if she could. Picking up the pen she began to write
Dear Gus,
I know that…
She only got that far before she let the pen drop as tears blurred her vision and she couldn’t write anything else. Closing her eyes against the hot tears she leaned her head back on the bars
“Are you here?” she whispered.
Joe appeared next to her and brushed her hair with his hand. “Yes.” He mouthed as she opened her eyes. “I don’t know if I can do this.” She remarked. “Harley, don’t do this, don’t push Gus away.” Joe said.
“I have to If I want to keep him safe and healthy.” She said looking at his father, then with determination picked up the pen and began to write.
After she wrote the letter and folded and put his name on the outside, she laid it down. Seeing the pain in her eyes, Joe tilted her face where he could see her.
“Do you love him?” he asked. Harley looked up. “Very much,” “Then why hurt both of you like this.” He asked.
“He needs to start to move on.”<br> Joe shook his head, “You and those boys are his life.” Harley shook her head but he stopped her with his next words.
“He won’t leave you no matter what you do.”<br> A little later, as Joe was sitting in her cell while she was outside he remembered the look on her face as she passed the letter to the officer to give to Gus; it was a look of heartbreak.
“Push back son.” Joe said to himself.
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Meanwhile at Company…<br> Gus and the boys together walked into Harley’s room and what Gus saw surprised him. Frank had turned down the bed; somehow knowing he wasn’t going to swap rooms. He’d also laid out his black pajama pants. Sitting on the night table by the bed was the picture that Frank had pack for him.
“Can we help Gus?” Zach asked.
“Well you guys can keep me company.” He answered and slowly began to take off his jacket.
When he laid the jacket on the bed the boys picked it up and went to hang it on the back of the chair. When they did Gus stopped to watch them. Smiling he took off his shirt and laid it folded on the bed knowing the boys wanted to help. He smiled as he got another t-shirt while the boys took his button down he’d been wearing and laid it on the chair closer to the closet.
When all Gus had left was to change jeans he looked at the boys, “Guys why don’t you go find a book from your room and bring it back here ok?” Zach and Jude nodded as they ran out then Gus changed into his pants and climbed in bed.
“O Harley baby.” he whispered as he leaned back on the pillows and watched the boys run in and climb up on the bed.
With a little boy on each side of him Gus snuggled down between them. “Gus why were you in the hospital?” Zach wondered as he pulled the boys closer to him.
“Well you’ve seen how busy Uncle Frank and I have been right?” Zach nodded. “Do you remember when you got sick with a cold?” Again Zach nodded then he continued, “I caught the cold you had and instead of letting myself be sick like you were I kept staying busy and ignored the cold and it turned into another type of illness called the flu – anyway then while I was sick with the flu I did to much for a long time without stopping and…the other day my body just decided it was time for it to stop and rest and eat and it said stop.”<br> “It did, what did it say?” Zach wondered.
Gus smiled, “Well it didn’t say it out loud but it showed me with different things that it was time to stop and when it did I passed out and scared Grandpa and Uncle Frank so I went to the hospital and Uncle Rick wanted to keep me there for a few days so I could rest. So I did but now I’m home but I still have to follow instructions from Uncle Rick to make sure I get all better.
“We’ll help you Gus.” Zach replied. “I know you will, now let’s have guys time and read this cool book, What’d ya think?” he asked as he hugged them close. The boys nodded and Gus began to read.
Sometime later, all three Cooper men came upstairs after they’d noticed that Zach and Jude had been way to quiet.
Stopping at Gus’ room they all three stood watching, Buzz with a smile on his face, Frank with tears in his eyes and for Coop it was different; it was awe because he was finally seeing what his dad and brother saw, the love Gus had for his nephews.
All three stood in silence as they saw why it was so quiet. Zach, Gus, and Jude were sound asleep. Gus was in the middle of the bed lying on his back asleep with one little boy on either side. The boys’ heads rested on Gus’ shoulders and his arms were around them.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 12, 2005 15:50:50 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 21
This is the newest chapter that takes place a few weeks later. However, Gus still has to follow Rick’s instructions. Plus it deals with the scene in the 4/8/05 GL episode where Zach pulled his hand away. Okay… please don’t hit me!!! The Zach/Gus scenes sorta wrote themselves. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
She sat on the cot lost in her memories. She didn’t know what had made her think of the memory of Jude’s birth. However as much as she loved her boy all she could think of was how Gus had been there for her and then how he’d been with her; how protective he’d been when they’d been at Company after Jude was born.
Remembering when Gus had taken the baby as he cried and talked to him then recited ‘Casey at Bat.’ To help Jude calm down made her wipe at her eyes.
“He was so strong yet gentle at the same time and at the time that hadn’t been the Gus Aitoro I had known.” Harley said quietly to herself but knowing Joe was probably close by.
“Oh Baby.” She whispered for both her guys.
Joe smiled watching her from where he sat on the floor across from her with his back against the wall; hands resting on his bent knees. He could see she loved Gus very much.
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Company…
“Buzz? Have you talked to Frank?” Gus asked as he sat down at the counter. “Not since he stopped by for lunch, why?” “Because I’m going crazy I gotta do something to help him clear Harley.” Gus said frustrated. Her father looked at him sternly just as Zach came in and his grandfather sat him on the counter.
“You have to take it easy Gus, so you can be there for Harley; right Zach?” Buzz asked smiling as he took his hand. When the little boy pulled his hand away both Buzz and Gus looked at each other since he’d also been watching the little boy.
Seeing this, Gus stood and reached for Zach who willingly went to him, “Come here little man.” he replied as the boy buried his face in his neck.
Going up to Zach’s room since Jude was with Rick Gus quietly sat on the bed propping against the wall as Zach straddled his legs.
“What’s wrong?”<br> “I miss mommy!” he responded. “I know you do.” He answered.
“NO, no, no you don’t!!” Zach said frantically as he fought Gus. He didn’t try to stop the little hands that pushed at him hard then climb off him and walk away.
Gus watched from the bed as the little boy stopped in the middle of the floor, “Why did mommy go away?” Gus closed his eyes for a second, “You knew mommy was a police officer who took care of the good guys and help get bad guys?” Zach nodded, “Well mommy did something that she knew that in order to protect the good guys--- us she had to go away until her job was finished.”
He watched the little boy drop to the floor and he could tell he was crying. Staying where he was Gus watched the little boy for a minute then quietly called his name
“Zach?”
When he turned Gus saw his eyes and held out his hand. Standing quickly the little boy ran back as Gus picked him up and held him tight. “It’s okay buddy.”
He looked up as fat tears rolled down his face, “I want mommy.”<br> Rubbing his back he held the little boy tight as sobs went through his body. Placing his check against Zach’s head Gus let his tears fall as he held her son. “I want mommy too little man, I want mommy too.”<br> Sometime later, Gus walked down the stairs holding Zach and he saw Frank sitting there. When Frank saw them he shot a look at him when he saw his nephew.
Gus shook his head telling Frank not to ask. Seeing Marina walk toward them she stopped when he smiled. “Hey little man, why don’t you let Marina fix you one of the pizza’s you like to share with me and after you have dinner she can fix you an ice cream sundae, how’s that?” the little boy nodded as Marina reached for him but he looked back with a scared look on his face.
“I’ll be here, I promise. Gus isn’t going anywhere.” He said kissing his cheek. “Hey Marina, he has one whole slice and half of another.” She nodded
“What about you?” she asked “Two and the half he didn’t eat.” He answered smiling at her.
“Frank what did you need?” Gus wondered.
“I wanted you to run a theory with me.” Frank replied. “Can we run it while we eat? Your dad won’t let me get by without eating.”
“Sure.” Frank replied grinning. A few minutes later, Marina brought out Gus’s pizza and he checked on Zach again before they sat down at a table.
While they were eating they went over the night Phillip was killed.
“Okay the witness said he saw Harley go in then heard shouting and then a gunshot, a few minutes later Alan goes in. and then a second gunshot.” Gus stated.
“Why would Alan want to kill Phillip?” Frank wondered.
Both men saw Buzz come from the kitchen and pass some one their order. Then picking up a dish tub he began to slowly make his way toward them.
“We are missing some small something here Frank?” Gus replied as Buzz walked by.
“He forgot his gloves.”
“What Buzz?” Gus asked leaning back. “Alan picked up his gloves.” He repeated. All three men stopped and looked at each other.
“POP!” Frank shouted. “Why didn’t you tell me?”<br> “I just remembered it.” Buzz answered.
“Tell us what you remember and how you saw it,” Gus asked as Buzz sat by them.
“We’ll that night at nine o’clock I was just about to go in when Al stopped me and we talked for a minute Alan kept looking for something— I asked him what; he told me some driving gloves he kept in that coat, he kept looking but never found them. So we went inside and when I turned on the lights; that’s when we saw Phillip lying there. I ran to Phillip but Alan sort of hung back for a second now I realize why—his gloves were laying on the counter and when I looked up to say something to him I saw him pick them up and stuff them in his pockets before coming to check on Phillip as we waited for the ambulance.”<br> Marina hated to interrupt but she walked closer, “Ummm Gus, Zach’s had his bath and is ready for bed.”<br> “Oh okay thanks.” Gus said as he stood. Going upstairs he quickly changed into his pajama pants and t-shirt and went to Zach.
“I’m here Zach.” He replied as he knelt by the bed and pulled the covers over the little boy.
“Do you love me?”<br> He stopped at Zach’s words, leaning down close as the little boy stared up at him Gus answered, “I love you very, very much. You are in my heart so deep that I’ll love you always.”
“Mommy and Jude too?” Zach wondered. Gus smiled, “Mommy and Jude too.” He responded.
“Zach, I will always love you no matter where I go or what I do. And I’ll protect you with everything I have. I’d do the same for mommy and Jude.” Gus said as he carefully climbed behind him and held him as he turned over to keep watching Gus.
“You want me to sing to you?” Zach nodded, “Okay this is a song from a father to his sons he said as he softly began to sing while he watched the little boy he thought of as his own.
I was never alive 'til the day I was blessed with you When I hold you late at night I know what I was put here to do I turn off the world and listen to you sigh And I will sing my angel's lullaby
Gus smiled down at the little boy when he saw his eyes flood with tears. “Stay with me Gus.” Zach asked. He nodded “Close your eyes little man.” He said. When the little boy did one tear rolled down. He continued singing as Zach relaxed against him
Know I'm forever near The one you can always call Right now all you know to fear Are the shadows on your wall I'm here close enough To kiss the tears you cry And I will sing my angel's lullaby.
When he finished he kissed his cheek, “I love you so much.” He said quietly staring at the little boy that looked like Harley.
“If only it were that easy for me Zach.” Gus wondered as he kept thinking about what Buzz had said.
“Why the gloves Alan?” he asked quietly as he lay down and fell asleep.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ To Be Continued…<br> Song Credit: Angel’s Lullaby by Richard Marx
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Post by Shanna on Apr 12, 2005 15:55:07 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 22
Hey Everyone!! This chapter will be done just a bit differently to accommodate some things I want to happen to move things along a little. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Company…
Waking up and realizing he must have fallen asleep when he’d been holding Zach; he climbed out of the bed and went to his room to go back to sleep. As he lay there he knew he couldn’t, not without Harley there beside him to kiss and hold through the night. He missed her so much. Gus saw his jacket on the back of the chair and thought about what he and Frank had been discussing; but he didn’t want to tip Alan so soon that they were looking at him until he and Frank had more proof. Gus slowly came down the stairs, mentally making a note to check out the gloves. However, the need for his girl out weighed all thoughts of the case.
Gus sat down at a table in the dark of the restaurant while his family slept above him. It didn’t even help to know that Frank who was on duty at the station was with her. Thoughts of Harley and how much he just wanted to kiss her, hold her in his arms ran through his mind.
“Oh how I miss you babe.” he said softly.
He stood and made himself some hot chocolate then went back and sat down slowly drinking as the silence surrounded him as he thought of Harley.
Gus smiled even as tears brightened his eyes but didn’t fall as he thought of certain moments or things. Seeing her for the first time, hearing her tell him not to make fun of her hunches, feeling the way he felt when he saw her at the docks when she was pregnant, hearing her wonderful laugh, seeing her beautiful eyes. All these memories made him smile yet sad that he couldn’t take Harley in his arms and kiss her.
From the stairs, Coop stood and watched as he saw Gus run his hands through his hair then say, “I can be there for Zach and hold him when he misses mommy—but who’s there for me when I miss his mommy?”<br> “You miss her. Coop said softly.
Gus whorled around when he heard the voice, he relaxed when he saw Coop.
“Yeah, what are you doing up?” Gus wondered and watched as Coop came down the stairs. “I was in the bathroom and when I came out I thought I heard something down here so I thought I’d check it out.” Her brother answered sitting down.
“I couldn’t sleep without your sister so I decided to come down here so I could think about my girl.” Gus replied.
Her brother smiled, “Your girl?” Gus smiled in return, “Definitely. Coop, loving her and her boys has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. They mean everything to me.”<br> “I know that now.” Coop replied. “You d--?” Gus started to say but was interrupted by the shrill ringing of the phone.
“I got it.” Coop said as he ran and grabbed the phone answering it. He turned holding the phone out to Gus, “It’s Frank, for you.” He remarked as Gus took the phone from him.
“Frank what is it, its 1:30 a.m.” Gus stated looking at the clock. He listened then said, “Okay I’ll be down there in fifteen minutes tell her I’m coming and to hang on.” he replied then hung up. Looking at Coop, “Can you get Buzz up for me and both of you meet me in Harley’s room?” he asked. Coop nodded as both men took off upstairs.
He was snapping his jeans and stuffing his feet in shoes when both men came in the room.
“Gus what?” Buzz asked not quite awake.
Putting his shirt on, he answered, “Frank needs me at the station right now. I don’t know how long I’ll be. I’ll try and be home by the time Zach wakes up. He had a hard time going to sleep tonight because he wants mommy and he’s scared I’m going away to. If I’m not back when he gets up please, please reassure him I’ll be back. Guys he’s afraid, so I’m going to need both of you to help if he’s up before I get back and he starts acting scared.”<br> “You got it. Go!” Coop said as Gus ran passed them and they heard the door shut downstairs.
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Station…
He came through the doors and began walking toward Frank’s office when an officer stopped him, “He’s with Harley, Aitoro.” Switching directions Gus never broke his stride as he headed to the holding cells. Reaching them Gus saw Frank with Harley and Parker watching them.
“Frank, I’m here.”
Frank looked up with relief and then looked at the officer. “What happened?” Gus wondered. Officer Parker looked at him, “A few minutes ago Harley screamed and I came running from what I can tell it was a dream but when I saw her she was rocking and whimpering so I got the chief and he’s tried to calm her down but it’s not working and the more he tried she froze so he called you.” She finished. He nodded.
Stepping in the cell Gus motioned to Frank. He stood, “Stay with her?” he replied. Gus nodded even as Frank handed him an extra blanket. “Parker will get you up in the morning.” Again he nodded.
“Out Frank.” Gus stated fiercely without taking his eyes from Harley.
Without looking away from her he heard the door close and lock and the footsteps fade.
Going to her Gus knelt, “Harley its Gus honey.” He said softly pushing her hair behind her ears as he smiled at her. When she continued to whimper, he tried again, “I’m here sweetheart, focus on my voice baby. Nothing’s going to hurt you I promise.” Pulling her to stand with him he loosely wrapped his arms around her as his father watched from the corner.
Holding her close, Gus continued to talk with her until she stopped whimpering. Carefully raising her face to his he kissed her softly once then looked in her eyes. “Coop I’m here baby. Focus on my face. You’re safe.” He could see she was beginning to see him, “I love you.” He said softly as he caressed her face, kissing her eyes, nose, and finally her mouth.
“Gus?”<br> “It’s me honey.” He said as he smiled at her. “I’m soo cold.” She remarked. “Okay, here lay back down,” he requested then turned but she stopped him, “Don’t leave.”<br> “I’m not sweetie, just lay down.” He repeated as he kicked his shoes off. Once she was lying down Gus climbed on the cot next to her and covered them both up with the two blankets. "You'll be warm soon." he responded.
Resting her head on his shoulder he turned to face her and claimed her mouth with his. When they broke the kiss Harley saw Joe stand and walk close.
“I’ll come back to stay with you when Gus leaves I promise.” He mouthed. She smiled and nodded as she saw him leave the cell. She wondered where he was going.
“Baby? What scared you?” Gus asked as he lay beside her; running his fingers softly through her hair.
“I’d dreamed you’d gotten shot in the chest and I couldn’t do anything to save you.” She whispered.
“Oh Harley. I’m here; I’d never leave you ever.” Gus replied as he held her close. “What made you dream about me getting shot?” “I was trying to remember what happened the night Phillip got killed. And I know you or Frank told me he’d been shot in the chest ---.” Harley stopped not wanting to say the rest.
“In your mind though you didn’t see Phillip getting shot you saw me.” He finished. She nodded against his chest.
“Harley, I’m here, safe, no body has hurt me. I want you to try and go back to sleep alright. You’re safe too.”<br> “You’ll stay?” she asked.
“I’ll stay I’m beside you love.” Gus said softly as he claimed her mouth in a kiss that spoke of longing, tenderness, and love. A kiss he’s wanted to have in his memory for months. Breaking the kiss she sighed.
“Sleep Babe.” He said quietly. She snuggled close as they slept until Parker would wake him tomorrow.
From the side Joe stood smiling at his son and how much Harley meant to him. With one last look at Harley, Joe left. He knew where he had to be.
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Company…
Coop and Buzz sat in the quiet. Neither were able to go to sleep after Gus left so they sat there hoping Harley was okay. Gus didn’t have to say anything; they knew with the look on his face that it was Harley he was going to see.
Buzz looked at Coop, “Why don’t you go upstairs and try to sleep. If anything were serious both Frank and Gus would call us.” His son nodded. “Okay what about you?” he wondered. “I’ll be up shortly. Can you check on Zach when you get upstairs?” he asked.
Joe slipped in and stood waiting by the door.
Coop nodded. “Come up soon dad.” He asked. Buzz nodded watching his son go up the stairs.
“Is Harley okay Joe?” Buzz asked turning to look at Gus’ dad. He nodded, “She had a dream; needed Gus.” he mouthed. Buzz smiled, “He misses her Joe.” Again Joe nodded, “She misses him."
“Do you mind if I look around?” Joe mouthed. Buzz nodded “Go ahead.”
Very slowly Joe walked around the restaurant and smiled. He went to the counter and looked at the wood. “I like the wood that was used.” He stated as he went behind the counter examining it further. He was just about to stand when something gold caught his eye under the counter. Standing Joe got Buzz’s attention.
“What?”<br> Kneeling Joe pointed to it. Seeing the seriousness in Gus’ father Buzz watched him as he examined what he saw.
“Don’t touch this Buzz, when Gus comes back tomorrow show him and your son and let them get it.” Joe mouthed.
“Okay, I will.” Buzz stated.
Going to the door Joe looked back at him, “I’ll watch over them tonight.”
Buzz nodded, “Joe what did you find?”<br> “A casing.” He replied then was gone.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ To Be Continued...
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Post by Shanna on Apr 16, 2005 18:37:29 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 23
Looking over at his son and grandson Buzz smiled. Coop was drawing pictures with him to keep his mind off of Gus not being there. They both noticed when Zach had gotten up he was okay but the longer it took for Gus to get back they saw he was beginning to be scared so Coop had asked him to help him draw a picture.
A few minutes later the door opened and both Gus and Frank walked in, and Frank was carrying a bag of doughnuts. Buzz motioned for them to stop and walked to them.
“How’s he been Buzz?” Gus wondered.
“He was okay when he first got up but then the longer it took for you to get back he began to get scared so Coop and he are drawing pictures right now.” Buzz replied.
Gus nodded then kicked his shoes off and kicked them in the corner by the door. Walking to the little table where the guys were he bent to see their pictures. Coop looked up and saw him, “He’s okay.” He mouthed.
“I like that picture Zach.” He said. Coop stood when Zach saw him. Reaching out Gus took him, “Thanks for helping me draw a picture buddy.” Coop remarked ruffling Zach’s hair.
The little boy nodded as he held on to Gus. As he turned around Zach asked, “Where’d you go?”<br> “Well early this morning before you got up Uncle Frank called me and said he needed my help with something at the station so I went in and was hoping to be back before you woke up – but I was a little late wasn’t I?” Gus remarked.
Zach nodded. “You know what… I thought doughnuts would be good this morning so on the way home I stopped and got some.”
“You did?” Zach asked his eyes widening a bit.
“I sure did. I got the ones that are all powdery and I got a few chocolate.” Gus said tickling his tummy making him laugh.
“Can we get them now before Uncle Frank eats them all?” the boy wondered. Gus laughed, “Yep come on.”
Reaching everyone he looked at Frank, “Zach wants his before you eat them Frank.” Gus said. Frank looked at his nephew, “Yours are right here buddy.” He answered passing them to Gus while Buzz went to sit with them.
“Frank can I talk to you a minute?” Coop wondered.
“Sure.”<br> “I want to go see Harley, is there anything I need to do to see her?” Coop asked.
“Not really, your name is on her visitor list so it should be set. “Just ask for a prisoner visitor badge authorized by the chief and then tell officer guarding the holding area who you are… you should be all set.” Frank replied.
“Great Thanks.” Coop said as he went to the little table and pick up something then left.
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Station…
Harley sat on her cot thinking about when she’d woken up this morning. She reached for Gus but her hand came in contact with empty air and a still warm sheet but not his warm body.
Sitting up she wiped the sleep from her eyes and called for the officer. Coming to the door she looked at Harley.
“Gus?” Harley wondered. Parker smiled, “He left about an hour ago; but he asked me too give you this.” She remarked passing her a note. Harley took it from her and sat down as she walked away. Opening it she read
Sweetie,
I had to get home hopefully before Zach wakes up, just remember I’m okay, safe and nobody is going to hurt me. I’ll never leave you. I love you.
Always,
G.
“But I will.” She thought sadly. “You need to move on.” Harley said quietly.
“Harley?” Coop said quietly as he walked up. She turned when she saw her baby brother.
“What are you doing here Coop?” she asked. “I can’t stay long but I wanted to come see you and make sure you are okay, plus I wanted to bring you this.” He answered slipping the paper to her. When she opened it she smiled. “Zach drew that this morning.” Coop remarked.
“How is everybody Coop?” she asked.
“We’re okay we all miss you and love you.” He remarked she nodded as they talked a few more minutes then blowing her a kiss he left.
Upstairs Officer Anderson was cleaning his desk when he came across a folded piece of paper with Gus written on the front. Deciding he’d go pick up some food for later he stuck the note in his pocket and headed for Company.
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Meanwhile at Company…
Both Frank and Gus were sitting at the counter while Buzz tried to figure out what to say. He had told them both that he needed to talk to them after Gus had made sure Zach was busying playing.
A few minutes later Gus had come back and now he and Frank were both waiting.
“What is it Dad?” Frank asked.
“Well last night I was doing some cleaning and I spotted something shiny sort of wedged under the counter so I got down and looked. When I examined it – it look like a casing of some sort.”<br> “What!?” Frank exclaimed jumping up, “Where?”
Buzz pointed it out as his son knelt. After looking at it he came up behind the counter where Gus saw him. “Gus look at this?”<br> He came around and knelt beside Frank. After looking at it he asked Buzz for a knife and a plastic Ziploc bag. When he had them Frank and he began to work the casing loose until they had it. Working the casing until it balanced on the knife Gus dropped it into the bag Frank held.
“This has to be from the night Phillip was killed.” Frank replied. Gus nodded. “Is the .38 that Phillip had that we collect on scene still in evidence?”
Frank nodded as he looked closer at the casing.
“Gus this is a casing that most likely held a blank.” He looked up, “Check the striation pattern anyway.” He responded as he thought back to that night and remembered that the CS unit had handed him a small baggie with a bullet in it that they had found under the body when it was moved.
“Also check the striation pattern from the bullet that was found under the body, that I gave you.” Frank nodded and they both looked up when Officer Anderson walked in.
Once Anderson had his lunch he and Frank went back to the station but not before Anderson turned to Gus. Reaching in his pocket he pulled the note out.
“Gus this is for you… Harley wrote this a week or so ago and asked me to get this to you.” He replied handing him the note and walking out with the chief.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 20, 2005 12:02:24 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 24
Hey all, this chapter is strictly a GusH scene except with a tiny bit of Zach and Bill thrown in. I have put my own twist on the Harley / Bill scenes and they are in a different scenario. It picks up with Gus getting the note from Harley.
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Gus went up to Harley’s room and closed the door then sat on the bed. Opening the letter he began to read:
Dear Gus,
I know that you said you’d wait for me until I got out but I can’t ask you to. You need to move on and forget about me. There has been nothing between us since we called the wedding off. I didn’t want to tell you like this but I’ve moved on and you need too. It’s not fair to either of us if you wait for me.
I’m grateful for all you tried to do for me before I took the plea. I can’t believe you wore yourself out to the point of exhaustion for me. Please don’t come back to the jail to see me. I will always have a special place in my heart for you but we can’t be together.
Stay Close with the boys but not me.
Take Care of yourself,
Harley
Gus let the note fall from his hand and it fluttered to the bedspread as he sat there in shock as he tried to comprehend what he had just read. As he began to understand, his shock turned to anger and he slowly opened and closed his fist.
Picking the note up again; he re-read it. Tears pricked in his eyes but he didn’t let them fall. The anger overrode his tears. Gus thought back to last night when he held her. He knew she was scared so was he but he wasn’t letting her go.
“You say you’ve moved on honey… with whom? You want to push me away, Harley? That ain't gonna happen.” Gus said to himself as he bounded off the bed with her note in his hand. With a loud crack he ripped the door open as he ran through it and down the stairs.
Stamping down his anger so he wouldn’t scare Zach he got his shoes back on then went to him and Buzz. “Little man, you know how I said I saw mommy a few weeks ago?”
Zach nodded, “I need to go see her again okay… so I’ll be back in a little while. I need you to do something while I’m gone okay?” Gus requested.
“What?” Zach asked. I need you to take care of Grandpa, Coop and Marina until I get back okay?” He looked up at grandpa and Buzz nodded even as he saw the anger in Gus’ eyes.
“Okay, Will you tell mommy I love her?” Zach asked. “You bet!” Gus said with a wink then he kissed the little boy’s cheek and with a nod to Buzz was gone.
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Station…<br> As Gus drove to the station he didn’t try to stamp down the anger as he had done for Zach. Pushing open the doors he went straight to the holding cells. Rounding the section that Harley was in he stopped when he saw Bill standing at the cell and they kissed.
Making sure his footsteps were heard Gus walked to her cell. Bill broke the kiss and looked around and saw his face. Bill backed away just as Gus landed the punch to his mouth.
Bill looked up, “Gus I…” he started to say but Gus stopped him. “I strongly suggest you get out of here now!” he hissed. Bill nodded as he stood and walked away.
“Parker!” Gus called. Harley saw the smoldering anger in his eyes and a muscle jump in his jaw and wondered why he was angry.
Parker walked up, “Let me in with her, then go clear it with Chief Cooper.” He said. Seeing his face she nodded as she let him in with Harley then closed the door behind him. In the corner Joe watched silently knowing Gus was about to push back.
“Gus what?” Harley said.
He held up a hand as he closed his eyes. Without looking at her he held up her note that was still in his hand.
“Does this look familiar?” he asked as he looked at her. She nodded. “Did you honestly think that this was going to work ...to push me away? Did you?” He asked in a voice rough from tears and anger.
“Yes, I’ve moved on; you have too as well.” Harley answered.
He watched her for a minute, “So Bill’s the one huh?” he wondered.
She nodded, “Yes, he came over the night before I took the plea and held me.” She said turning away from Gus as tears flooded her eyes.
Joe called her name, “Don’t do this.” He mouthed.
“You could have called me I could have come over and held you.” Gus said. “No.” she replied.
“So last night was just a fluke, when I held you in my arms, kissed you, and you felt safe.” Gus questioned anger making his voice rise.
“Yes! I was just scared last night.” Harley said spinning around to look at him even with tears in her eyes; her voice matched his in intensity.
“That’s bull Harley and you know it! You still love me and you can’t tell me you don’t when I can see it in your eyes.” Gus stated.
Gus stalked over to her as his father watched.
“Damn it Harley! Does this feel like nothing… a fluke to you?” He exploded as he roughly yet gently wrapped his hand in her shirt and hauled her up against him as his mouth captured hers in a kiss filled with passion, anger, love, and possessiveness.
Breaking the kiss he saw Harley’s tears fall, Gus continued, "I love you, I love you; don’t you get that?? I'm not going anywhere no matter how hard you try to push me away Coop." he said hugging her tightly.
Still angry, he heard in his head, “Push her back; push her to say she loves you.” Gus stepped away, “You tell me right here, right now you don’t love me and I’ll walk.” He said. Harley kept thinking that he had to move on so she kept quiet.
After several minutes, Gus turned and began to walk toward the door. Reaching the door he was about to push it open when he heard, “Stop.”
Turning back to her Gus stayed where he was, “I…” she started to say but stopped even with tears bright in her eyes.
“You what?” Gus requested his voice raised. She shook her head.
“Say it.” He said his voice a little husky. He watched as she laid a hand over her heart but said nothing. Gus knew what she meant.
Going to her he wrapped his arms around her. Knowing he was pushing her to a breaking point he continued. With his lips hovering over hers he looked down into her eyes, “If Bill’s who you want… Just know that I love you completely and won’t ever stop… I’ll never stop fighting for you either.” He said softly then placed a soft kiss on her mouth. Letting her go he turned and walked out of the cell.
“O before I forget Zach wanted me to tell you that he loves you very much.” He told her. She nodded.
“Harley, when you are ready to tell me those three little words, the words I know you still feel; I’ll be back.” He said then walked away.
A few cells away Gus wiped the angry tears that had fallen from his eyes. “I love you babe.” He said softly as he walked out.
Joe sat in the corner watching Harley as she dealt with how Gus had pushed back.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 20, 2005 12:06:05 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 25
“Ahh honey, what are you doing?” Gus said to himself laying his head against the back of the car seat as he sat in the parking lot at Company.
Leaving her today had been so hard. He didn’t want to but he knew he had too. She had to realize on her own what he already knew, that no matter what they went through whether they went through it separately or together they belonged together and he loved her.
Getting slowly out of the car he started to make his way toward the front door and went in. Buzz saw him and gave him a small smile as he walked over.
“Harley?” Buzz asked
He nodded, “Your daughter is a stubborn woman Buzz. Gus replied as he took a sip of coffee. “Yes she is and she loves and equally stubborn man.” Her father stated as they looked at each other.
“Gus! Gus!” Zach shouted as he came down the stairs. “Hey little man.” He answered turning to pick the boy up. “Did you see mommy?” Zach wondered. “I did, and I gave her your message. She wanted me to tell you she loves you too and to give you a big hug.” Gus answered as he hugged him. He needed a hug just as much as Zach needed it.
He looked at the little boy and smiled, “Mister Spaulding, I need to talk to you, would you like to step in my office sir?” Gus asked and the little boy nodded as they walked to a near by table.
Buzz watched in fascination as the man and boy were almost head to head in conversation. He could see the love Gus had for Harley’s sons evident in his eyes as they talked. “Okay Zach I want you to be my side kick on this project okay but you can’t say anything—I want it to be a surprise for now.” The boy nodded then Gus continued, “When I have everything in place we’ll talk about it again.” He finished and they shook hands.
Climbing into Gus’ lap Zach held on to him as he began slowly rubbing his back as they sat there.
“Rough day Gus?” Buzz asked.
He nodded as he wiped at his eyes and squeezed the bridge of his nose in exasperation. Both Buzz and he looked up when they heard the squeal of tires from outside.
Frank stormed through the door ready to hit Gus. “What the hell were you thinking?” he asked angry. When Zach saw his uncle’s face he hid his face in Gus’s neck even as Gus rubbed his back and reassured him and Buzz went to hold Frank back.
“Take it easy Frank, he’s still recovering.” Buzz warned.
“We need to talk.” Frank replied. Gus nodded as he passed the little boy to his granddad and stood.
Going outside Frank and he stared at each other for a few minutes. “I take it Officer Parker told you I was with your sister. He remarked. “She did and she also told me how mad you were so I made my way down---.”
“--And you heard our argument.” Gus finished for him.
“I did, most of it. I went back to check on Harley after you left; Gus she looks like she’s been hit in the stomach. ---Why?” he asked.
“Because she has to realize that we are better together than apart and that no matter what I’ll be here always for her.” He turned away and hit his hand open handed against the side of the building then looked at her brother.
“I got a note this afternoon from your sister; telling me she’s moved on and I have too as well. She also asked me not to come see her anymore. When I got there she and Bill were kissing so when I asked her she said he was the one that she’d moved on too. You heard the rest so I’m not going over it again.”<br> “She loves me Frank I know she does but she has to realize on her own that she still loves me and I’m still here and going to wait for her. To her, going to prison meant letting me go and she needs to understand she doesn’t have to nor do I want her too.”<br> “Believe me Frank walking out of her cell was the hardest thing to do; but I had to. When she realizes what she needs and wants she’ll be ready to talk to me but until then I have to stay away. I told her once that nothing can touch what she and I have and I meant it.” Gus finished.
“You still love her though?” Frank asked.
“With all my heart and soul Frank and nothing will change.”
“Do you want me to check on her for you and let you know how she is?” Frank wondered.
Gus nodded, “I was going to ask you to keep me updated, because not seeing her is going to kill me.”<br> Frank nodded, “I know.”<br> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Station…<br> Harley stared sightless at the cinderblock wall. “He left.” She whispered knowing Joe was close by and sitting on the floor so she wouldn’t be alone.
Joe was on the floor watching her, “Yes he did sweetie but I told you he won’t leave you no matter how hard you push him.” He mouthed as she looked at him.
“You think?” she asked. His father nodded, “Hasn’t he told you that nothing can change what you and he have?” he asked.
Harley nodded, and then became lost in thought as part of the conversation they had replayed in her head:
“Damn it Harley! Does this feel like nothing… a fluke to you?” He asked as he roughly yet gently wrapped his hand in her shirt and hauled her up against him as his mouth captured hers in a kiss filled with passion, anger, love, and possessiveness.
Harley not realizing what she'd done placed the tips of her fingers against her mouth almost as if she could feel his warm kiss against her lips.
Breaking the kiss he saw Harley’s tears fall, Gus continued, "I love you, I love you; don’t you get that?? I'm not going anywhere no matter how hard you try to push me away Coop." he said hugging her tightly.
“But I have to let him go.” She said quietly.
Joe knelt in front of her, “Why do you need to?” he asked.
“So he can move on.” She answered him.
“Sweetheart, look at me,” When Harley did he continued, “Do you really want him to move on and not be a part of your life or your sons’ lives?”
He saw a tear slide from her eye as she replied, “I don’t want to let him go.”
“Then don’t Harley.” Joe stated as he pushed hair behind her ear.
“I have too--- Can I ask you something Joe?”
He nodded sad though that she’d let the subject drop, “Why are you here?” she asked
Joe smiled, “I’ll be with you as long as you need me to be. Your father is with Gus watching over him and I’m here because you need someone with you when Gus or your brother can’t be.”<br> “Thank you for being with me. I think I’ll sleep now. ” Harley replied. Joe agreed and when she lay down he made sure she was covered and sat by her as she fell asleep.
As she fell asleep she whispered the one name that was on her heart.
“Gus”…
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Post by Shanna on Apr 20, 2005 12:08:45 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 26
This chapter takes place about a week and a half after the last. Frank has kept Gus updated about Harley and in that week and a half Harley has done nothing but think of Gus. She knows he usually comes to see her and sit with her awhile but he hasn’t. Joe has been watching over her as well. More GusH scenes are coming I promise
Let me know what you think. Hope you enjoy!
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Stopping at the door he watched. He stood looking at the man who was sitting there; he was sitting there lost in thought and absently tapping a pencil against the pad of paper that was lying in front of him. The man at the door knew he shouldn’t be here because it was hard for him but yet somehow he also knew that even if he didn’t see her he couldn’t stay away.
“Okay, I just checked with ballistics and they said about five more minutes and the tests will be ready. Someone will bring it to me.” Frank said as he walked in the door. At the sound of his voice Gus nodded and stopped tapping the pencil.
“Yeah.”<br> Frank sat down across from him, “She misses you Gus.” he replied. “I miss her too; more than you realize.” He answered. “Is she alright?” he wondered.
“She looks like she’s been crying at times and Parker tells me at times she hears her talking—.” Gus interrupted. “Has she had visitors?” Frank shook his head, “none except me, you, and occasionally Coop; since I made sure her visitor list was monitored.” He remarked, “Parker says she hears her more at night and one night she said Harley said the name Joe.”
Gus stopped where he was, “Joe?” he thought to himself, “No, couldn’t be.” He stated quietly just as an officer walked in “Chief here are the results you were waiting on sir,” Frank nodded and the officer turned and walked out.
“We have to go over these results and plug them into theories to see how close we get.” Frank stated as he opened the file labeled Phillip Spaulding Murder. “What are the results Frank?” Gus asked leaning back in the chair.
He looked down at the papers for a minute then let out a low whistle. “Well it says here that the casing you and I found was indeed a blank; it matched the striation pattern when another blank was fired from the .38 that was Phillip’s.” Frank replied.
Gus thought for a second, “So the wound in Phil’s shoulder must have been from the blank, because you and I both know that a shoulder wound like that wouldn’t have killed him.”<br> “I know.” He stated watching Gus. “I also tested the bullet we found under Phillip’s body against the gun we had; to rule some things out.”
“You did?” he asked. Frank nodded, “When a real bullet was fired from his gun they looked at the bullet they had just fired against the one that was found under his body. Both bullets were indeed for a .38 caliber gun but the one we found under the body didn’t match the striation pattern when a bullet was fired from Phillip’s .38.”<br> Gus’ eyes widened, “So the shot that actually killed Phillip didn’t come from the gun he’d brought with him that night.”
“No.” Frank stated as they watched each other. “That means when he put the gun in Harley’s hand that night the only thing in the gun were blanks.” He said.
Gus nodded, “Okay, Okay, that means since we know Alan came in shortly after Harley he had knowledge of the second shot-- so where’s the second gun Frank?” he asked.
“I don’t know I’ve been wondering that too.”<br> He stood, “Give me a few minutes to try and wrap my mind around this.” He asked. Frank looked at him, “Where are you going?” “Just to walk around, I’ll be back.” He replied.
Frank nodded and watched as he walked to the door. He turned when he reached the door, “I do know one thing?”<br> “What?” her brother wondered.
Gus continued, “You are going to need to call Warden Williams and request his permission to take Harley out of here. Now that we have a lead we need to go back to Company because she’s going to need to walk us through that night step-by step.” He stated as he left her brother’s office.
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Gus knew he shouldn’t be here but it was like his feet just went where they wanted as he walked to the door of where the holding cells were.
Opening the door, Officer Parker saw him and started to say his name but he stopped her with a finger to his lips. She nodded as she passed him a pad of paper and he smiled at her as he took it. He held up two fingers and she understood as he began to write Officer Parker a message. After he was finished she read it and nodded as she saw him take his shoes off and leave them by the desk. Following her, she led him to a spot where he could see Harley and she wouldn’t know it nor could she see him.
Taking the paper again he wrote the second note and passed it to her. She saw it and smiled.
Harley sat in her cell trying to wipe away the tears that lately never seem to stop since Gus left her cell that day.
“I miss him.” She said. Joe sat beside her, “I know you do.” He mouthed. “I need to let him go.” She stated while Gus watched her from behind.
“Harley, look at me sweetie.” Joe asked.
When she did his father continued, “Don’t you understand Gus loves you very much? He would do anything for you and your sons. Even though he came to Springfield trying to find the man that caused my death– he came alive when he met you. Both of you have been through so much to get where you are in your relationship.”<br> “Yes he made a mistake on your wedding day?” he said then before Harley could interrupt he continued, “He made a mistake that he will always be sorry for you know that.” Harley nodded.
“Do you forgive him and do you still love him?” Joe asked. Harley leaned back, “Gus, I love you so much.” She said quietly.
Gus heard her words and silently reached toward her. Even though Joe was kneeling in front of Harley he looked over and saw his son standing a few feet behind the woman he loved with all his heart.
“I know my son Harley, when he loves he loves strongly and he loves you.” Joe stated looking at her then his son.
Just then Officer Parker walked up, “Harley I have something for you?” she replied slipping her hand through the bars so Harley could reach the paper.
Standing she took the paper and then sat down even as Parker moved away but not to far away.
Harley opened the paper and tears flooded her eyes as she read the words:
I Love you Harley! I love you! I love you! I’m still here beautiful.
Always, G.
“Parker!” Harley called to the officer that was standing behind her with Gus. “Yeah?” she asked coming to the door. “When?” Harley wanted to know.
“A little while ago, he’d been with the chief upstairs and before he left he dropped that off for you.” She replied then walked away.
She held the note to her heart, “O my god what have I done?” she stated. Joe moved to her but didn’t interrupt her.
“I can’t let him go!”
“Then don’t Harley.” Joe responded.
“I love him.” She said softly. “Then tell him.” His father stated. Behind her, Gus blew her a kiss and turned walking back to Parker then putting his shoes back on went back to her brother.
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Upstairs, Frank was on the phone Gus assumed with Warden Williams as he explained why they needed Harley released for several hours. He leaned against the wall and listened.
About ten minutes later Frank hung up. “Where’d you go?” Frank asked.
“Harley, I know I shouldn’t have but I just had too.”<br> “Did she see you?” her brother wondered looking at him. “No.” was all Gus said softly. Looking up he continued, “Was that Warden Williams?”
“Yeah finally, I never thought I was going to get a hold of him.” Frank replied. “I explained the situation about our lead and how only sis could tell us what exactly happened that night then I explained what we were wanting to do and since he thinks Harley is innocent he has given permission for us to take her back to Company when we need to so she can walk us through that night but only on 1 condition that two other officers go with us.” Her brother finished.
“Great so are you thinking like in the next few days.” Gus asked. Frank nodded, “At night just like that night.”<br> “Okay I need to get back to the boys.” Gus remarked. “Alright I’ll bring this file home so we can explain to dad.”<br> Gus nodded again as he turned to leave. In her cell, Harley kept repeating, “What have I done?”<br>
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Post by Shanna on Apr 25, 2005 19:01:29 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 27
Sitting quietly on her cot she was wishing beyond hope that she could see the man she loved the man that opened her heart again. She just wanted to see his face, his beautiful eyes. If only she could just see him.
She knew he’d made a mistake on their wedding day but she also knew everything he’d done to stand with her and beside her and she could see he still loved her. No, she couldn’t just see he did… she knew in her heart he did and she loved him; she couldn’t deny it anymore she didn’t want to, she loved him. They both knew they had each made mistakes but that’s why she loved Gus and he loved her because the love was perfect to them yet imperfect.
He stood silently at Harley’s door just watching her. Frank had planned to check on her but he’d gotten busy so Gus had offered to check on her even though it would be hard for him.
“Harley?”<br> She turned her head at the sound of his voice, “Gus?” she asked softly. He nodded then turned away and motioned for something. A second later Parker was there, “Yeah Gus?” she wondered. “Chief Cooper ask that I be let in here.” He replied. He backed up as Parker stepped in front of him and slid the key in the lock; turned it opening the door.
Stepping into the cell the door was closed behind him as he propped against the wall across from her. “Hi, are you okay?” he asked. She nodded as they both stayed silent.
“Can I just look at you?” Harley asked softly.
He smiled and stayed still and let her. He watched her at the same time. Harley sat where she was as she memorized him; she loved when he wore his comfortable faded jeans, black t-shirt and his black boots. Although right now she just wanted to stare at his face.
Closing his eyes he waited, being close to her was great but not touching her, hugging her, kissing her was hell for him. Seeing when he closed his eyes she waited then asked
“Does it hurt?”
Gus understood what she was asking, “It hurts like hell.” He whispered. “I need you to look at me; I need to see your eyes when I say this.” Harley requested.
He opened his eyes, “I love you Gus I really love you.” His eyes glazed with tears so fast it surprised them both.
“I love you too Harley, I always will.” He answered.
“I need to tell you why?” she responded. Without a word he moved over to the cot that was across from her. Sitting with his hands clasped together and his head down he waited giving her time.
“Pushing you away was all I could think to do because I needed to know you were moving on since I’d be in prison for years. As much as the thought of you waiting for me made me happy I couldn’t ask you too.”
“But I’m nothing without you.” Gus said softly.
She shook her head, “I loved that you believed in me no matter what and you supported me. I thought I could let you go. Kept telling myself I could; even wrote you that note you got. Then I saw you the day you saw Bill here---.”
He interrupted, “Is Bill the one you want?”
“No, it's you I want.” Harley said looking at him. Moving to the floor she knelt but didn’t want to touch him until she could kiss him.
When I saw you so angry I thought for sure I’d finally pushed you away. But it was after you left and in the time after that that I realized I’d made a huge mistake by trying to push you away. The more you stayed away and I couldn’t see your face--.” She stopped as she moved closer and raised her hand to touch his gorgeous face very lightly. Placing her had on his cheek Gus held her hand there.
“Go on.” He responded.
“---I kept replaying our last conversation over and over and I realized I couldn’t let you go. No matter what we went through you are my heart Gus, I can’t and don’t want to let you go.” She stopped when he took the hand on his cheek and kissed her fingers.
“I love you Aitoro.” Harley said smiling.
He pulled her up to him as he stood. Wrapping his body around her as much as he could he slowly, lovingly, and gently devoured her mouth in a kiss that made her head spin.
Breaking the kiss Gus looked at her as she said, “Would you just hold me for a while?”<br> He nodded as they slowly rocked back and forth as he held her. After a bit, he began caressing her face as he looked down into her eyes then bit his lip for a minute, “It doesn’t hurt anymore baby.” “For me either.” She answered as she rubbed the backs of her fingers over his cheek. Kissing her bottom lip he stepped away from her.
“Frank and I need to fill you in on the latest developments.” He stated taking her hand and pulling her with him as he sat back down on the cot.
“What?” she wondered?
Gus began to tell her part of what they’d discovered. Finishing he looked at her, “this is where we need you honey we need to go through that night step-by-step…”
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Post by Shanna on Apr 25, 2005 19:04:52 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 28-A
Gus began to tell her part of what they’d discovered. Finishing he looked at her, “this is where we need you honey we need to go through that night step-by-step…” He stopped and looked at her.
“What do I need to do?” Harley wondered.
“Frank and I need you to help us re-enact what happened the night Phillip was killed. We need to see what you saw that night baby and the only way we can is if you walk us through that night…”
“But I don’t remember all of what happened that night Gus.” she replied.
He held her closer, “I know. But if you walk us through what you do remember maybe we can fill in some of gaps that Frank and I have.”
Both didn’t say anything for a while, they each knew that if they re-enacted that night-- Harley could possibly remember all and he knew that scared her and it scared him to no end because even though he believed Harley wasn’t the killer it could show that in her anger towards Phillip she could have shot him.
“Why are you doing this?” she asked.
He looked at her, “Because neither your brother or I think you killed Phillip honey, and we wanna prove it because we want you free baby.” He answered her. Pushing her hair behind her ear he continued, “There are some clues that we know of that say you weren’t alone with Phillip that night.” He said.
“Can we just stop talking; I don’t want to lose you.”<br> He leaned his forehead against hers, “You haven’t lost me sweetheart. You never will either.” He whispered in reply. “I thought I had.” Harley said. Hugging her close he nuzzled the baby soft skin below her ear, “You’ll always be mine Harley Davidson Cooper,” He said a softly spoken word in her ear.
She looked at him. “Seriously?”
He nodded, “Yes, you always have been. They sat in the quiet for a while with his arms around her until Parker came to the door.
“Gus?” He looked at the officer when she called his name, “It’s time for you to go, I’m sorry.” She said then stepped away so they could say goodbye.
Carefully untangling himself he stood up pulling her with him. Wrapping his arms around her he hugged her tightly as propped his chin on her shoulder. Not being able to resist he bunched some of her hair in his hand and just breathed in her scent.
Pulling his head up to look at her he smiled, “I love you so much.”<br> She smiled back at him, “Back at ya Aitoro… I love you too, now kiss me?” she requested.
He chuckled as he captured her lips and plundered her mouth.
Nipping at her bottom lip and then kissing it he stepped back, “I love you beautiful I’ll be back tomorrow, Sweet dreams.” He said as he turned and called for Parker. After letting him out the door closed and he turned to see her once again, “I love you.” He mouthed then winked at her and walked away.
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Later that night…
Harley lay staring at the ceiling as Joe sat near by. “I’m worried about doing this re-enactment.”
Joe moved closer to her, “I know you are Harley but remember Gus will be with you the entire time. He’ll be with you should you start remembering about that night. He said.
“What if I shot him.” She responded. Joe sent her a baleful look as he shook his head, “You didn’t that’s why Gus and your brother are working so hard to free you, they believe in you; I believe in you.”<br> She turned her head to look at him, “You would have been such a wonderful father-in-law.”
Joe smiled at her, “Try to sleep Harley-girl. I’ll be here to keep you safe.” He said as he watched her close her eyes and let sleep take her and her sweet dreams of his son begin.
“I’m still your father-in-law Harley-girl; just as your father still sees himself as Gus’ father –in-law.”
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The next afternoon—late afternoon…
Frank and Gus walked together to Harley’s cell. “Everything ready over at Company?” her brother asked. Gus nodded, “Yeah Coop and Marina are with the boys over at Rick’s and they will stay overnight. Buzz is at Company making sure the props are in place, he said he’ll mess around there until we get there then he’ll leave and come back at 9:00 like he did that night. Opening the door that led to the holding cells Parker met them and handed Frank the key and then followed them to her cell.
Reaching her cell she looked up when she heard the footsteps. “We’re ready sis.” Frank said as opened the cell door. Gus stepped in and stopped just inside, “Harley to leave here you have to be handcuffed.”<br> She nodded as she held her wrists up and Parker put the cuffs on.
Looking to Gus he walked beside her as Parker led her out and over to a police car, “Harley Officer Jackson will be taking you to Company and another officer will meet you there.” Parker responded. Harley nodded and bent her head and Parker helped her in the car. Gus squatted at her open door, “Sweetheart I’ll be right behind you following in my car okay?” She couldn’t answer but he saw her swallow hard. “Its okay baby you’re okay.” He said standing then shut the car door when the officers got there. He ran to his car and jumped in as he waited to follow then Frank got in Gus’ car and they went to Company.
Harley sat in the back of the car praying she could be herself again and hoped that she would be able to remember. Feeling the car stop she waited. He opened the door and helped her out to stand.
“Is anyone here?” she asked Gus. He looked at her, “Your dad’s inside but will leave in a minute and come back at 9 like he did the night Phillip was killed. After Buzz leaves it will be just us so that we can re-enact that night.
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Post by Shanna on Apr 25, 2005 19:18:52 GMT -5
In the Silence of These Moments... Chapter 29-A
“Dad’s inside?” Harley asked looking at him with desperate eyes. Understanding her plea Gus looked over at Frank, “Hey Frank, toss me the cuff keys.” When her brother shook his head Gus gave him a hard look and walked to him.
“Give me the keys.” He asked again. “I can’t Gus, Warden Williams told me not to take the cuffs off until we were inside.” Frank said. “Harley doesn’t want to have your dad see her in handcuffs---.”<br> “I can’t.”
“Do you want Buzz to see Harley in cuffs?” Gus wondered.
“No.”
“Then give me the stupid keys Frank, she’s not going anywhere.” He responded taking the keys from her brother and going back to her.
“Hang on sweetie.” He said as he stood behind her and unlocked the cuffs and took them off. Passing them to the closest officer; he then tossed the keys back to Frank and took her inside.
“Buzz?” Gus called and saw her father come from the kitchen. Seeing her he stopped for a minute and just stared then going to her he hugged her tightly. “Harley…Harley… I love you sweetheart.” Buzz replied quietly.
“I love you to Daddy.” She answered as he left.
Frank came in, “Okay sis this is what’s going to happen, “We want to play as much as possible like that night so I need you to dress as “Ruth” again and Gus and I will play out that night with you. We know there was a second suspect so that’s where I’ll come in.” he replied.
Gus saw her freeze, “Give us a minute Frank,” he asked. He nodded and went to talk with the officers. “I’m scared Gus.” she said quietly.
“I know honey, but we have to do this just like that night, only difference is I’ll be acting out Phillip’s part okay… Just think of it as we’re running theories together like we use too and your showing me. Phil can’t hurt you.” He said rubbing his hand on her arms.
“What if I remember?”
“Let the memories come okay, you’ll be safe and we’ll play out what you remember.” Gus said softly. “I’ll be right here with you even though I do what Phillip did okay.”
“Okay I think I can do this, as long as you’re here.” She responded.
Frank walked back up holding Phillip’s .38. “its empty sis but we still need to use it.” “I know.” She replied as she put the wig, coat, on and got the purse out for Ruth. “The officers know you have to be outside so they won’t stop you.
“Where will you be Frank?” his sister asked. “We know that the witness saw you come in and a few minutes later heard the argument and the first gun shot and just a few minutes later the second suspect came in so… until the first gun shot I’ll be hiding but listening and watching then I’ll be the second suspect and we play it out from there.” He said answering her.
She nodded, “Okay let’s get started.”<br> They nodded as Gus and Harley headed outside and Frank turns off the lights and heads off to hide and listen.
Outside Harley watched as Gus got a white handkerchief ready. Then after giving her a quick kiss walks to the door, opening the door slightly where Frank can hear; he begins the re-enactment:
“Phillip breaks glass on the window to open the door and get in; walks in and notices his hand bleeding and ties handkerchief around it.” Gus replies as he walks in then winces like his hand is hurt and begins to tie a white handkerchief around it.
Frank watches the next part, he sees Gus turn like Phillip did and get a beer and pours him a glass and begins to drink and slowly walk around the room.
“Okay Phillip hears the door open and sees Ruth as she walks in.” Gus says looking at the door. “Mr. Spaulding, there you are.” Harley says as Ruth,
“What’d you need Ruth?” “I just want to make sure you were alright sir, you seem distracted.”
“Really, do I?” Gus replied as Phillip might’ve as he began walking toward her. Stopping behind Ruth he waits.
“Now what Harley?” Gus asked. “He got in my face as he ripped off my wig he knew it was me.”
Gus knew pretty much what was said so Harley began to not see Gus but see Phillip as he began talking.
“Did you think I wouldn’t eventually figure it out Harley? Did you think you could just fool me forever? Phillip wondered
“Look Phillip, listen I just want Zach & Jude back that’s all.”
Gus began to yell like Phillip had, “I said 9 o’clock, you’re early. You just blew your last chance to get the boys back; I hope you took a lot of pictures of them because that’s all your going to have to remember them by."
“I got angry and lunged at Phillip,” Harley said. “Okay you get angry lunge and say what?” Gus replied. She did and continued, “You’re a sick animal." Gus answers with what Phillip said. “I’m sick I’m sick?”
“Listen to me you need help." Harley said. Gus wrapped his arms around her like Phillip did and held her still, “Am I sick do you care about me?” Help?”Harley cried softly. Frank kept watching, “You care about me – you’re just like all the other hypocrites in this town you’re so sanctimonious you’re so righteous. Phillip’s sick he’s sick he’s turned into such a monster. Let me ask you something? Let me ask you? Did you tell any of the other mothers’ you were coming here?" Phillip asked.
“No...No…" Harley was crying
“No... No I didn’t think you did – what about you? What about your charade “Ruth” if I remember correctly you were the one that took Zach first."Gus stated holding his arm tighter closer to Harley’s neck.
“You’re not gonna get away with this, I’ll make you pay. Harley stated
“Really?” Gus asked with a sneer.
“I will!”
“Harley now what?” “He spun me around to face him then continues,“Really? You gonna stop me, you want to stop me Harley?"
“Then he slides the gun across to me.” She said as she watched Gus do that. “Here you go here’s your chance to stop me.”
“What are you doing?" Harley asked.
“Go ahead take it. You know how to use it, & I know you want to lets see just how much you hate me." Phillip responded.
“I don’t want to shoot you Phillip. I just want the boys back that’s all.”
She watches as Gus cocks the gun and continues, “Over my dead body, let’s see how tough you are Harley. Come on its loaded.” Phillip said holding the gun out to her.
“What are you doing? Why are you baiting me?” Harley wondered.
“What’s the matter; you afraid? Or maybe you don’t love ‘em as much as I do? Or are you just to good to do it Harley. I know you say the Coopers are so much better than the Spauldings.” Phillip stated.
“They are.” She says defensively
Gus grabs her like Phillip did, “Really? That’s not what I asked you? Are you …are you in this moment- are you better than I am? Do you love them as much as I do?"
“Now what sweetie?” Gus asked, “I told him, I didn’t want to do it.” She said looking at Gus. He answered her as Phil did, “You want to stop me? Stop me! Go ahead then you do it, Stop Me!! Do it?" He asked angry
“I struggled with Phillip and the gun was between us and I said, “Alright Alright!” Then he pushed me and that’s when I think the gun went off.”<br> Gus stopped her, “The gun went off?” She nodded, “That’s when I fell and I guess got knocked out. She said. He looked at her “As you fell show me where the gun was aimed? show me?” he asked. Harley took the gun and put it to Gus’s shoulder. “Lay down where you landed.” He requested. When she did, it was with her body against the end of the counter with her head bent against the back of the counter and her feet toward the bathrooms.
“What now?” Gus wondered. Harley shook her head, “Struggle with me like that night and let me fall and let me see if I remember?”
She stood and then she and Gus re-enacted the struggle and she went down. “I was dazed for a minute as he stood over me and then as I blacked out I saw him look over me and heard him say “O it’s you?”
Just then, Frank walked in while she stayed on the floor and Gus turned like Phillip did to see who had just come in.
“I don’t know how long I was out but I thought I’d heard a gun shot so... I could look up without him seeing that I was awake and there was another man standing over Phillip with a gun in his hand but it wasn’t Phillip’s because I saw his on the floor.
The man turned, and I saw his face – and I saw it clearly I blacked out again.
Gus knelt in front of her as he slowly pulled her to sit up, “Baby whose face did you see?” he asked.
She hid her face in her hands and began crying. Gus picked her up and sat her in a chair then knelt again. Placing his hands at her wrists he pulled her hands away. “Sweetheart I’m right here with you; you are safe. Whose face did you see babe?”
“Alan, it was Alan.”<br>
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