With a tired sigh, Levon gave up on finding anything worth watching on TV. He'd never really spent much time watching daytime television, and if what was being offered today was anything to go by, he hadn't missed a thing. [For the life of me, I can't understand the appeal of game shows. Just don't get it. And soap operas.... Ugh. Mindless drivel.]

Levon shifted restlessly. He really wanted to get out of bed, but knew better than to try it. His whole body hurt like hell and reminded him of that fact every chance it got. Just going to get the cast put on his arm had left him pale and shaking.

He grimaced, looking distastefully at the neon green cast encasing his right arm from his hand to his elbow. The technician had asked what color he wanted, and Levon had told that it didn't matter. He had been too focused on keeping himself together to really pay attention. [Didn't know they came in such ugly colors.]

Levon consoled himself with the fact that he'd only have to wear it for three or four weeks. The nurse had told him that a hairline fracture typically healed in less time than a major break so the cast wouldn't be needed for quite as long, assuming everything healed as it should. [Still hurts the same though.]

The clock on the wall indicated that it was just 10:30 am. For the first time in his life, Levon wished he was the sort to sleep in. The morning wouldn't seem quite so long if he hadn't been awake before six.

Not that he'd actually gotten much sleep anyway. He kept dreaming about the car. Except that in his dream he wasn't fast enough to grab Peggy, and he had to watch helplessly as she was killed on impact. Waking up alone repeatedly just made it worse. He missed Joe. Ever since they'd become a couple, he hated sleeping alone. Getting to sleep only a few hours at a time had not made for a restful night.

He hoped Joe had slept better, but he doubted it. If anything, Joe slept worse than he did when he had to sleep alone. [My bein' in the hospital probably didn't help that either. Joe didn't sleep at all the last time I was stuck in here. Boy, was probably tossin' and turnin' all night.]

Levon sighed again. With any luck he'd be released today. All the tests had come back clear, so there was really no reason to keep him here. A fact Levon was decidedly grateful for. He didn't care for hospitals any more than Joe did. He was usually just less vocal about it.

He looked toward the door as it opened and smiled when Joe quietly stepped into the room. "Tell me you're gonna get me the hell out of here. Tell me yer here ta take me home." Levon pleaded.

Joe smiled as he came toward the bed. "Doctor Marsh says you can leave after he checks you over."

"He say when he was gonna do that?"

Joe shrugged one shoulder. "Some time before noon, but most likely not until one o'clock. Doctors don't seem capable of telling time like other people"

Levon pursed his lips in annoyance. "I hate this place."

Joe leaned in and kissed him very gently. "I know." He whispered against Levon's lips. Unthinking, Levon reached with his right hand to pull him closer. He hissed when his arm immediately reminded him that attempting to grab and pull was not something he should be doing just yet.

Joe pulled away, and concerned blue eyes studied him. "You okay?"

"Yeah. Fergot I busted my wing." Levon held up his right arm. "Jus' got the cast on this mornin'. Takes a bit o' getting used to."

Joe's eyes widened as he caught sight of the cast. "Green?"

"Very green." Levon agreed with an expression of distaste.

Knowing Levon's tastes didn't usually run toward such outlandish colors, Joe was clearly surprised. "You picked THAT color?"

"No. The tech did."

"Ah." Joe accepted that answer and chose not to ask any more about it. "Everything else all right?"

"Other than feelin' like I got run down by a herd of Brahma bulls, I'm doing great." Levon kept his tone light trying to ease the worry he could see clearly in Joe's eyes.

Joe's eyes narrowed, and he studied Levon carefully, raking him from head to toe. "Seriously, Levon. I don't want to hear that you're just sore or a little stiff. I know better. So, just tell me the truth."

Levon grimaced. "The truth is you can be a real pain in the ass."

Joe smiled slightly. "I know. But you love me anyway."

Levon returned his smile, with interest. "Yeah, I do."

Undeterred, Joe asked again. "How are you feeling?"

Levon had always figured that injuries hurt less if you didn't acknowledge just how bad it really was. He firmly believed that if you said it didn't hurt that bad, then it didn't. He would have preferred to just get away with saying he was okay, but he knew Joe wouldn't let it go at that.

Levon glared at Joe. "My knee is okay if I don't try ta do much with it. Hip seems okay, but then I ain't moved much, so it hard to judge that. Ribs feel like they did the last time I cracked 'em, which means takin' a deep breath hurts like hell. My arm is letting me know it's broken every time I move it, an' since I'm right handed, I'm hearin' from it jus' 'bout every other minute or so. I'm turnin' some really pretty colors that don't feel nearly as pretty as they look. An' takin' a piss feels like I'm passing razor blades. Other than that, I'm just fine and dandy." He gave Joe a dirty look. "Ya happy now?"

"No. I'd be happy if you hadn't gotten hurt at all." Joe reached out and gently cupped Levon's face. His touch was very gentle, and his expression made Levon's throat hurt with the level of tenderness it held.

Levon sighed, immediately regretting his outburst. He closed his eyes and rubbed his cheek against Joe's hand. [I know he just needs ta be sure I'm okay. Shouldn't snap at him for carin' about me. Shouldn't said all that either.] "Sorry, Joe. I'm jus' tired, an' out o' sorts. Shouldn't be takin' that out on you."

"It's okay. I understand." Joe's voice was soft, loving, letting Levon know he wasn't angry or upset. That he really did understand. "Did you get any sleep?"

"Probably not any more than you did." Levon relaxed when Joe moved his hand to start running fingers through his hair. He loved it when Joe played with his hair. He sighed when Joe started to massage his temples. Levon didn't even question how it was that Joe knew he had a headache in addition to everything else, he just accepted the comfort being offered.

"Where's the rest of your family?" Levon asked quietly. He still felt guilty about breaking his promise, and disrupting Joe's vacation. It had made him feel warm all over that Rosa considered him part of their family and had eased his conscious somewhat. [Don't change the fact that my bein' here puts a crimp in Joe's plans.]

"I managed to convince Carlo and Maria that they should spend the day doing something they liked. I put them in a cab and sent them off to tour some of the local wineries. Took some doing to assure Maria that you were all right. She plans to check on you herself once they finish up with the tour later today. And Aunt Rosa was adamant that she come with me."

Joe's voice took on a faintly exasperated tone. "I've never had much luck convincing her of anything. She was determined to see for herself, and she didn't think I should be alone. So she's downstairs, and will be here in a few minutes. She would have come in with me, but she thought we might need some time to ourselves."

Levon opened his eyes. He frowned, confused. "Why?"

"She knows about us, Cowboy."

Levon immediately tried to sit up straight so that he could face his lover better. Abused muscles and ribs quickly let him now they didn't appreciate such abrupt, hasty movements. His instinctive reaction to being in pain was to curl up into a fetal position, which just made it worse. Levon tried to stifle a groan, not wanting to upset Joe any more than he already had. He couldn't be sure he was totally successful. Levon closed his eyes, and focused on breathing, trying to keep it together, and relax enough to help himself.

[God...that hurts.] He tried to breath shallowly so as not to aggravate his ribs again. His right knee kept sending him throbbing messages of pain that matched the beat of his pulse. Levon could feel Joe's hand gently rubbing circles on his back.

"Easy, Cowboy. Just take it easy. C'mon, partner, say something. Levon?"

Hearing the underlying fear in Joe's voice, and its steady rises to outright panic, Levon forced himself to open his eyes. He managed to halt Joe's reach for the call button. "S'okay.... Jus' gotta remember not ta... move too quick. Jus' gimme a minute."

Joe held his shoulders and helped him ease back down on to the bed. Levon knew he was being watched like a hawk, his every reaction studied and examined. He managed to get his breathing back under control, and relax after a few minutes. [Okay. Won't be doin' that again any time soon.]

"You okay?" Joe asked, worry and concern readily apparent in his voice.

"Yeah. I'm okay. Remind me not to do that again?"

"I will." There was a note in Joe's voice that suggested Levon would be forcefully reminded when the time came.

Trying to bring the conversation back to where it had been, Levon asked, "What did you mean she knows about us?" He wanted to be absolutely certain he understood what Joe meant.

"We don't need to go into that right now." Joe hesitated, looking doubtful. "I shouldn't have said anything. I didn't think it would upset you."

"I'm not upset. Jus' surprised me is all. And I think we do need ta go into it." Levon frowned at his lover. Given what she had said about love at the museum, Joe had seemed fairly certain that Rosa would be okay with them as a couple. But Levon knew all to well that some people might be okay with an idea in theory, but not in practice. [Rosa wouldn't be the first person to be okay with an issue that didn't touch them personally, just to come unglued when it did become personal.]

"She okay with it? She didn't blow up at you did she?"

"No, she didn't blow up at me. We talked quite a bit last night after we left here." Joe was quick to reassure Levon. "She's fine with it. With us. More than fine actually."

Levon breathed a little easier hearing that. "So... you told her? Didn't think you were gonna do that."

Joe smirked. "I didn't tell her. I didn't have to. She figured it out on her own."

Levon felt his mouth quirk into a half smile. "Let the cat outta the bag, did we?"

Joe chuckled. "Sort of. Rosa is a bit like Joanne... very observant, and very intelligent." Joe held up one hand and began ticking off points with his fingers. "She knew someone had left the roses at my apartment. The fact that I let you drive the Cobra was a dead give away that I trust you. We have jewelry made by the same artist. I'm listed as your next of kin. Last night, we were just a little too close to be mere friends."

Levon's smile turned wry. "Oops. Gotta quit doin' that." He wasn't exactly repentant. He liked touching Joe, and being touched by him. [Still we need ta be more aware of who's with us when we do that.]

"Well, at least this time it was me, not you, that couldn't keep his hands to himself. So you could say we did learn something from the last time."

Levon snorted. "Oh yeah. I can see we learned lots and lots."

Joe shrugged. "Besides, that isn't really what gave us away."

"Oh?"

Joe blushed and dropped his eyes. "And according to Aunt Rosa, I light up when I talk about you or when I'm with you."

"Really?" Levon was intrigued. He'd never noticed that. "This mean you burn for me?" Levon asked suggestively, his smile warming into a faint leer. "That I turn you on?"

Joe leaned in and whispered. "Oh, Cowboy, you have no idea." He used both hands to cup and frame Levon's face. He then proceeded to kiss Levon in a leisurely, thorough fashion. Levon simply let himself enjoy being kissed, having learned his lesson earlier about moving when he shouldn't.

The sound of a throat being cleared broke them apart. Rosa stood in the doorway. She shook her head, but she was smiling. "Children, you really should be more careful."

Levon felt his face get warm. [Shit. Gotta quit doin' stuff like this. Getting careless and that ain't good.] He sighed, and shot a sheepish look at Joe. "I'm beginnin' ta think we aren't very good at this whole bein' discrete thing."

Joe hung his head for a second. "I know what you mean."

Rosa stepped forward to stand near the bed. She smiled warmly at both of them. "Nonsense. You do just fine under normal circumstances. At lunch you were both the very souls of discretion. This is not... well, I am hoping this," she gestured indicating the hospital in general, "would not be considered a normal situation."

"No, Ma'am. We don't try ta make it a habit o' bein' here."

"Good. I'm very glad to hear it." Rosa patted Levon's left leg lightly, and winked at him, her expression turning a bit sly. "I'm not so old that I don't remember what it is like to be in love."

She looked slightly apologetic as she continued. "People who announce their presence usually don't see things they shouldn't. It's the whole reason for knocking in the first place. I should have knocked, and respected your privacy."

Levon immediately felt a better a bit better at having gotten caught. He was honestly surprised to have her handle things so well. Joe had said she was okay with the two of them as a couple, but he would have expected her to be shocked or embarrassed at seeing Joe kissing him. Her matter of fact approach was very reassuring, easing any lingering doubts. [Reminds me o' Annie's reaction. Maybe this getting' caught in the act, so ta speak, really is the way ta go.]

"Now, how are you feeling?" Rosa asked, pulling his attention back to her.

"I'm fine. Jus' a bit stiff and sore is all."

Joe snorted and Rosa raised an eyebrow. She looked from one to the other. "I get the impression you've already had that conversation."

"You could say that, Aunt Rosa." Joe replied dryly.

Rosa nodded sagely at that. "I'm going to assume that you disagreed with Levon's answer."

"Yes. I did."

"So how is he really?"

Joe gave her an abbreviated run down of what Levon had told him earlier, leaving out the more graphic details. Levon scowled, annoyed with being talked about like he wasn't present. "Hey, I'm still in the room, ya know?"

"I'm sorry, Levon. That was rude of me." Rosa tipped her head toward Levon, and raised one shoulder in a movement that was too elegant and precise to be considered a shrug. "Hospitals seem to bring out the worst in me."

Levon's annoyance evaporated at hearing her apologize. He was ashamed of himself for snapping at her. [Keep this up and I ain't gonna do anythin' today but say I'm sorry for bein' a pain in the ass. Bad enough I already snapped at Joe.]

"Hospitals don't do much for me either." Levon smiled slightly, trying to make amends. "Place is a breeding ground for poor manners and bad attitudes."

Rosa laughed lightly. "You may be right about that." She studied his face for a moment, before clucking her tongue. "You look tired."

"He is." Joe stated before Levon had the chance. Levon rolled his eyes, but didn't bother to argue. He was tired.

Rosa nodded, her expression sympathetic. "No one ever rests well in a hospital." She patted Levon's leg again. "Will they be releasing you today?"

"Soon as Doctor Marsh looks me over."

"Will you be staying with Joe then?"

Joe raised an eyebrow at Levon, silently asking the same thing. It wasn't something they'd gotten around to discussing yet. Levon shook his head, and pointed to his knee. "Spiral stairs would be tough with a bum leg. An' no offence, Joe, but yer couch ain't all that comfortable ta sleep on." [Doesn't have room for two. Not like my bed. An' I don't want ta sleep alone.]

"Ranch it is then." Joe agreed, understanding Levon's reasoning.

"This would be the place with the horses Rafael has spent so much time talking about?"

"One an' the same."

Rosa smiled. "Excellent. I would love to see what so impressed him."

Levon raised his eyebrows at that, wondering what exactly Rafael had said. "Ain't all that much, Rosa. Really. He's just hung up on horses."

"I know all about his love for horses, Levon. I was the one who signed him up for his first lesson."

"Do you ride, Rosa?"

"When I was a little girl I took lessons. I enjoyed it a great deal, but I never quite developed the passion for it that Rafael seems to have. I haven't ridden in many years."

Levon nodded, understanding that horses were not a passion for everyone. [Least she ain't afraid of them.] Having learned to ride at such a young age and spending so much time around them, Levon tended to forget that not everyone was comfortable around such large animals. "If you wanna ride while yer here, yer more than welcome."

"I think that is an undertaking best left to younger people. I am too old for that sort of thing."

Levon cocked his head to one side, studying her. "You aren't old." He stated with conviction. "Beautiful woman like you... why if I weren't already committed ta Joe I'd be askin' ya ta go dancing."

Rosa laughed lightly. She leaned down and placed a light kiss on his cheek. "You are very good for my ego, Levon."

He shot a quick look to Joe just to gauge his reaction. [Rosa did say it was okay to flirt with her, but that don't mean Joe will think it okay. He knows I don't mean anything by it, but I don't want him ta think I'm bein' disrespectful ta Rosa.] Joe winked at him, and Levon knew everything was okay.

"You bring me any clothes?" Levon asked, hoping to be dressed and ready to leave by the time Dr. Marsh showed.

"Naturally." Joe held up a small bag Levon hadn't even noticed him carrying.

"What did ya bring me?"

Joe pulled out one of Levon's older button down shirts. It had snaps at the cuff that if left undone would easily accommodate the cast on his arm. It would also be fairly easy for Levon to put on with his broken ribs and other assorted bruises. Joe hesitated for a second before removing a pair of cut off shorts. "I wasn't sure what kind of brace they would want you to wear on your knee, so I figured it would be best to bring something that would work no matter what they ended up fitting you for."

Even though it wasn't what he would have preferred, Levon decided he wouldn't object because right now anything was better than the hospital gown he was wearing. And with a glance at his knee he knew Joe was right. "Good thinkin'."

Rosa patted his leg gently, and moved away from the bed, heading for the door. "While you get dressed, I'll see if I can find out what is keeping Doctor Marsh."

Levon was grateful she made a graceful exit, and he was saved the embarrassment of either asking her outright to leave, or having to get dressed with her present. Carefully, he sat up. As long as he moved slowly, he could manage. He knew from previous experience that in a few days things would be better.

"You want some help?" Joe offered even as he was reaching to support Levon's back, and untie the top strings of his gown.

"Sure." Levon smiled. With Joe's help getting into his shirt was accomplished with little difficulty. Levon wasn't too surprised that Joe didn't look at him much during the whole process. He clearly remembered how much his bruises had bothered his lover the last time he'd been in the hospital. He understood just how unsettling it could be.

Getting into the shorts was a bit more difficult. His hip and right side were for the most part just a dull ache that he could manage, but his knee was another story entirely. Even with the brace, it hurt like hell to move it. He was careful not to make any noise or let on just how much it hurt. [Already upset Joe once, don't need ta repeat that.]

Once done, Levon sighed, relieved to be dressed again. [Hate them damn paper thin, drafty gowns.] Joe helped him lay down again. Levon closed his eyes, and tried to relax. He focused on simply breathing for several minutes. He knew if he was patient and kept still the pain would slip back to a manageable level.

"You're looking a little pale, Cowboy. You doing okay?"

"Yeah." Without opening his eyes, Levon shifted, and found a more comfortable position. [That's better.]

"They give you anything for the pain?"

"Yeah."

"I mean recently. As in today, Levon."

Levon smiled wryly at that, hearing the concern mingled with impatience in that comment, and cracked open one eye. "They gave me something at nine."

"Do you need something now?" Joe gave him a hard look, wanting the truth.

"Nah. Gotta save somethin' for the ride home. Can only take that stuff every so often." Levon hated taking pills. Having had severe reactions in the past to medication, it was all he could do most of the time to convince himself to take them at all. He didn't like the fuzzy-headed, disconnected feel that strong painkillers always seemed to give him. And he dreaded the idea of becoming addicted so he avoided taking anything until he absolutely had to.

Joe frowned, but didn't get the chance to argue. There was a faint rap on the door at that moment. Rosa entered a few seconds later with Dr. Marsh in tow. Levon had a suspicion that she simply tracked him down, and politely, but firmly, ordered him to get into Levon's room and send him on his way. The mental image of her tugging Dr. Marsh by the ear, like a recalcitrant child, and pulling him down the hall, brought a warm smile to Levon's face.

"And how are you feeling this morning, Mr. Lundy?" Dr. Marsh asked as he walked toward the bed, eyes already checking Levon, even as he was reaching for the stethoscope around his neck.

"Like I got hit by a car." He answered acerbically, tired of hearing the same question over and over again. [How in the hell am I supposed to feel?]

Dr. Marsh pursed his lips but wisely didn't push it. He simply started examining Levon, checking his ribs, knee and hip, and his cast. He checked Levon's heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. The exam really didn't take long. The poking and prodding Levon really could have done without, but knew it was necessary or he wouldn't be allowed to leave.

He'd have to wear the knee brace for about two weeks. Levon decided that wasn't too bad since the brace was somewhat flexible and only went from mid calf to mid thigh. It was basically designed to support the joint, but not to completely restrict movement. He'd worn similar braces before when he played football.

There wasn't much to really be done for his hip other than to try not to walk more than absolutely necessary for the next few days. At hearing that, Levon shook his head. He hated sitting around doing nothing. He was already starting to think of ways around that when the look he got from Joe let him know that he would most definitely be following the doctor's orders. [Oh joy. Ought ta be a lot of fun the next few days.]

Dr. Marsh confirmed what the nurse had already told him about wearing the cast for just a few weeks. He wanted Levon to schedule an appointment in three weeks. He would x-ray the arm at that time to see if it had healed enough to remove the cast.

Levon already knew what to do for cracked ribs. It said something about just how often he'd broken them that he knew the spiel by heart. [An' what it says ain't good. Gotta wonder if I shouldn't invest in some body armor.]

Dr. Marsh handed a sheet of written instructions to Joe that reiterated everything he'd just said, and a prescription for painkillers. "It is the same one he used the last time, and what he's been given while he was here, so I don't anticipate he'll have any trouble with it." He tipped his head to Levon. "If everything goes well, I expect to be hearing from you in a few weeks to check that arm. Hopefully, not before then."

Levon just rolled his eyes. "Yeah sure, Doc. I can leave now, right?"

"Yes. Just need to get you a wheel chair, and finish the discharge paperwork."

Levon would have preferred to leave under his own power, but he knew better than to say so. [No way I'll get to walk out o' here. Not with Joe lookin' like he does. Still, I'm going home so I can't really complain. Wouldn't do any good anyway.]

Rosa took his prescription to the hospital pharmacy to be filled. She met them in the lobby where she waited with Levon while Joe drove the Jimmy up to the front. Just walking the few feet from the lobby to the truck was enough to convince Levon that the wheel chair had been a good idea.

He limped badly, but despite the pain, it felt good to be able to move. Getting in was a bit tricky, but Levon reflected no worse than any other time he'd had to do when he'd been hurt. With Joe's help, he was inside in no time.

He settled quietly into the passenger seat with a quiet sigh, and closed his eyes. Joe nudged his arm, and he opened his eyes to see his lover offering him two pills and a bottle of water. Levon took them without comment.

He didn't remember much of the drive. He wasn't sure if he'd dozed off or just zoned out. Either way the next thing he was really aware of was Joe standing beside him, with a hand on his arm.

"You with me, Levon?"

Levon blinked, realizing the Jimmy was parked in his driveway. "Yeah. Yeah. I'm here." He smiled tiredly at Joe, and let his lover help him out of the vehicle, and into the house. He was oblivious to almost everything but the need to put one foot in front of the other, and Joe's strong, capable support.

Once inside, Joe steered him toward the bedroom. "C'mon, Cowboy, let's get you into bed." Joe's voice was soft, encouraging. Levon nodded, and let himself be led down the hall. Joe helped him out of his clothes with the same care he'd helped him into them at the hospital.

Levon stretched a bit, and reveled in the feel of his own bed. He took as deep a breath as his ribs would allow, settling in. "You gonna...stay with me?" He asked, knowing that even in his own bed he still slept better if Joe was with him. Joe hesitated in answering long enough that Levon opened his eyes.

"Joe?"

Joe smiled tenderly and caressed his cheek with one knuckle. "Just let me get Aunt Rosa settled."

"Sorry, Joe. Forgot," Levon yawned, "bout Rosa."

"It's okay. You're just a little out of it."

"Pills got a... kick to 'em."

"Indeed they do." Joe caressed his cheek again. "I'll be right back, Levon."

"Kay." Levon sighed, losing the battle to stay awake. "I'll... be... here."

He really didn't know how long Joe was gone, but it couldn't have been long. He was hovering between being awake and asleep when he felt Joe slid into bed next to him. [Hmmm... much better.] Levon shifted until he was as close he is aching body would allow. He smiled when he felt Joe's fingers starting running through his hair. Deciding all was right with his world for the time being, Levon gratefully let sleep over take him.

Joe woke with a start. He hadn't meant to sleep at all. He had intended just to keep Levon company, but his own nearly sleepless night caught up with him unexpectedly. Joe quickly scanned the room, looking for what had caused him to wake. He checked Levon first and was pleased to see he was still sleeping peacefully. He wasn't sure if Levon would have nightmares or not, but he had hoped not. [Doesn't really need that on top of everything else.]

Glancing toward the door, he noticed Rosa standing just inside the doorway. It must have been the slight sound of the door opening that woke him. Seeing he was awake, she motioned for him to come into the hall. Taking care not to wake Levon, Joe slid out of bed, glad that he hadn't bothered to undress. He was vaguely embarrassed that his aunt had seen the two of them in such an intimate setting. [Can't be any worse than catching the two of us kissing. Since that didn't seem to bother her much, I doubt this will either.]

He stretched, easing the kinks that came with sleeping in one position for too long. He silently left the room, and followed Rosa down the hall toward the kitchen. Something was cooking, and it smelled wonderful. His stomach growled. Glancing at the clock on the wall, Joe realized with surprise that it was late afternoon. He and Levon had been asleep for nearly four hours.

Feeling the need to apologize to Rosa, Joe hung his head. [Not only did I abandon her in a strange house, but she's making dinner too.] "I'm sorry, Aunt Rosa. I didn't mean to..."

"It's alright, Joseph. You both needed to rest. Levon was not the only one who didn't sleep well last night." Her dark eyes assessed him, and dared him to tell her differently. She nodded once, when he didn't even try to. She made a vague gesture encompassing the kitchen. "And it is so rare anymore that I get to just cook. Without any ... help. It was a genuine pleasure to be able to cook quietly." They shared a smile at that. Make in a meal in the LaFiamma household was usually a loud, even boisterous affair, with most, if not all of the family hanging around the kitchen, offering advice, sometimes helpful, sometimes not.

She nodded toward a chair, and Joe took a seat. She put a small appetizer on a plate in front of him, along with a bottle of water that she pulled from the refrigerator. Rosa then sat down in the chair across the table.

"I just spoke to Maria."

Joe frowned. "When?"

"A few minutes ago. I called the hotel." Rosa gestured toward the plate. "You need to eat something." Since refusal was not really an option, Joe started eating.

He remembered that he was supposed to call the hotel and leave a message for Maria and Carlo so they would know how Levon was doing. [One more thing I owe Aunt Rosa for.] "Thank you."

She smiled at him, accepting the thanks for both the food and calling Maria. "You are welcome."

"Did they enjoy the tour?" Joe asked taking a sip of water.

"It sounds as if they had a very good time. Maria was pleased to hear that Levon was no longer in the hospital."

Joe nodded. "Yeah. Me too."

"She wants to see for herself just how he is doing."

Something in the way she said that made Joe freeze, his fork poised halfway to his mouth. "Meaning?"

"She and Carlo will be here in about," Rosa glanced at the clock, "half an hour."

"What do you mean they are coming here?" Joe could feel the faint stirrings of panic beginning to rise. This was not something he'd planned on. [Hell, I didn't even think past getting Levon home.] Joe swallowed hard. "They can't come here."

Rosa watched him steadily, totally calm. "I realize that neither of you are prepared to deal with revealing the true nature your relationship tonight." Rosa sighed. "However, for the situation to be perceived as normal, then we must behave normally. If you were not... involved, with Levon, would you object to Maria and Carlo being here?"

"It's Levon's house." Joe hedged, playing with his fork, not entirely sure what answer to give her.

"Would he object?" Rosa pressed.

Joe thought for a moment. "If we weren't together, he would have tried to get me to just leave him here alone. He would want me to spend time with all of you. He understands how important family is to me, and he wouldn't want to get in the way of that."

"Would you have left him?" Rosa raised an eyebrow.

"No." Joe didn't even hesitate. Even before they were lovers, they were friends, and he would never have left a friend to fend for himself. Especially not one as in need of assistance for the next few days as Levon was.

Rosa nodded once. "I didn't think so. Neither will Maria. Knowing that you wouldn't leave a friend in need, and that our time here in Houston is limited... the next best thing would be?"

Joe nodded, seeing her logic. "Having all of you here."

"Exactly."

Joe took a deep breath, and then another. He gave Rosa a half-hearted smile. "You'll make sure we're discrete?"

"But, of course." Rosa stood up, and patted his cheek. "Now, why don't you go wake Levon while I finish taking care of dinner and set the table?"

Joe got up and headed back down the hall. He slipped into the bedroom, and watched Levon sleep for a moment. He really wanted to just kiss his lover awake, but realized that probably wouldn't be a good idea. [Don't want to start something we can't finish. Besides with the way our luck has been lately Carlo and Maria will show up early, and they'd be the ones to catch us in a lip lock.]

Regretfully, Joe bent down, and shook Levon's shoulder. "Levon...Hey, Cowboy, time to wake up." He kept his voice low, not wanting to startle Levon.

Sleepy brown eyes opened to look at him. Levon shifted slightly, and sighed. He blinked again, and Joe could almost see the lights come on. Joe wondered if he looked like that... asleep one second, and wide awake the next. He'd have to ask Levon one of these days.

Levon raised his right hand to rub his face, and stopped when he saw the cast. With a resigned sigh, he used his left hand to rub the last of sleep from his eyes. "What time is it?"

"Almost five."

"Hmmm."

"You feeling better?"

"Yeah. A bit. S'always good ta sleep in my own bed...with you." Levon smiled, brown eyes warm with love and affection.

Joe smiled in return. "You want some dinner?"

Levon seemed to give that some thought. "I could eat." He cocked his head to one side and a small frown formed between his brows. "What's wrong?"

[One of these days I'm going to figure out just how it is that he can read me so well.] "Rosa talked to Maria and Carlo a little while ago, they are coming for dinner, and should be here in about twenty minutes."

Levon sat up slowly, pushing back the comforter. "So... what's the problem?"

"I don't know." Joe sighed, and ran fingers through his hair. "Didn't know if it would be okay with you or not. I wasn't sure if you would be up to company." He shot a rueful look at his lover. "Wasn't sure if I was up to it or not."

"Up to what? You're not plannin' ta tell them about us... are you?" Levon asked hesitantly, his unease evident in his tone. Joe could tell he wasn't eager to deal with that issue right at the moment, but he would willingly back whatever Joe decided. Joe could almost see his lover marshalling his resources and the wheels of his mind working toward how to handle whatever Joe chose.

"No. Not tonight." Joe leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on Levon's lips. "Tonight will just be dinner, and light conversation. Think of it as being just like lunch was yesterday."

"I can handle that." Levon grinned, obviously relieved. He paused for a moment. "Ya sure? I mean, if you really wanna go into it, I'd..."

"We'll save the heavy stuff for when we're both ready ta take on the world." Joe smiled warmly. [God, I love this man.] He cupped Levon's face. "Okay?"

"Okay."

Joe sealed their deal with another gentle kiss. "Let's get you dressed."

"I got time for a shower?"

"A quick one."

Levon's left hand cupped Joe's face, fingers gently stroking his temple. "Guess that means I gotta shower alone, huh?"

Joe smiled regretfully. "Unfortunately."

"Will ya get me something ta wrap this cast in? Don't want ta get it wet."

Joe nodded. "Can you make it to the bathroom by yourself?" Joe wasn't sure if he should leave him alone or not.

"Yeah." Levon waved away Joe's offer to help, and stood slowly. He limped toward the master bath.

Joe found it reassuring that Levon seemed steadier on his feet than he had earlier. Despite the fact that Levon was moving better, he waited until his lover was safely inside the bathroom before heading down the hall to get a plastic bag. He came back to find Levon, leaning against the wall completely naked, testing the water temperature. Levon's back was covered with bruises of varying color that extended down his right side to well past his knee. Without the knee brace, it was apparent that the joint was still slightly swollen.

Joe took a deep breath, and forced himself to focus on helping his partner, not on the blatant signs of injury. Levon offered him his right arm. Joe quickly wrapped the plastic bag up and over the cast, securing it with a small metal clip. Joe helped steady and support Levon so that he could step into the shower. He heard Levon hiss softly in pain when he forced his right knee to bend enough to accomplish the task.

"You all right?"

Levon nodded, but Joe didn't let go until he was certain Levon was capable of supporting his own weight unaided. Once he was sure that Levon could handle the rest on his own, he wandered back in the bedroom to find something for him to wear. [Need something easy to put on, and something that fits loosely.] Joe pulled another shirt out of the closet, and tracked down a pair of black sweats from the bottom dresser drawer.

Looking down at his own wrinkled clothing, Joe realized it might not be a bad idea for him to change as well. He normally wore dress clothes to work or whenever he was leaving the house, but since he intended to basically be in for the night casual clothing seemed more appropriate, not to mention, more comfortable. [Jeans and a t-shirt it is.] He suspected that Levon would feel less self conscious about having guests in his home if he wasn't the only one casually dressed.

Hearing the water shut off, Joe went back into the bathroom. He helped Levon out with the same care that he'd helped him in. Joe reached out and grabbed one of the large fluffy towels that hung on the nearby rack.

"You gonna dry me off?" Levon's voice low and just a bit husky. Joe could feel himself responding to that faint, seductively inviting tone almost immediately.

Joe smiled, pleased that Levon obviously felt better if he was willing to tease him even just a little. "Sure. Just don't plan on doing anything else. We have company coming."

"Party pooper."

Joe snorted, his attention focused on drying off his lover. "Party pooper? I prefer reasonable. Sensible even."

Levon chuckled. "Oh sure. Now you want ta be sensible." Levon shifted his weight so that he could rest against the wall. "Think they'd decide ta go some place else if we locked the door and refused ta come out?"

Joe pursed his lips. "Doubtful. Knowing Aunt Rosa, she'd wait patiently for us to get hungry, and sandbag us once we decided to leave. And Maria... well, it wouldn't surprise me if she could pick the lock."

"Guess we better jus' face the music then." Levon sighed.

Joe made eye contact and held it. "Have I told you lately that I love you?"

Levon smiled, and leaned forward to let his cheek rest against Joe's. "Love you too, Joe." Levon whispered, before placing a kiss where his cheek had rested.

In the bedroom, Joe re-wrapped his Levon's ribs, and helped him put the knee brace back on. Levon turned his back to Joe, and began to dress. Joe gritted his teeth against the need to help, waiting to see if Levon would ask for help before he offered. Levon didn't.

"Stop glaring at me."

"How do you know I'm glaring? You're not even looking at me."

"I can feel it." Levon looked over his shoulder, and smirked.

"You couldn't ask for help?" Joe frowned at him. [Stubborn. Independant. Stupid. Bound and determined to just struggle through it when all he has to do is ask. Would it kill him to just ask for help?]

"Didn't need it."

Joe grudgingly admitted that he hadn't really needed assistance. It just took him longer to do it on his own, but he managed. As angry as it made him to watch Levon struggle, he was relieved that his lover had recovered enough to handle getting dressed on his own.

"Hey, Joe?" Levon turned to face Joe. "You have my bracelet?"

"Yeah. You asked me to hold on to it for you last night. Remember?"

"I remember." Levon shrugged on shoulder, and looked away. "I jus' feel weird not wearin' it. Like I'm missing something real important."

[Makes that sound like he's confessing some deep, dark secret.] "I know what you mean, Cowboy." Joe raised a hand to finger his pendant. He felt naked if he wasn't wearing it.

Levon's mouth quirked into a shy smile. "Know it won't fit on my right wrist with this ugly cast an' all, but I could wear it on my left. Would jus' feel better havin' it. Ya know?"

"I know." Joe walked to the bedside table, and pulled open the drawer. He pulled out the bracelet and offered it to Levon. "I put it in here last night."

"You were here?" Levon asked as he carefully placed the bracelet on his left wrist.

Joe felt his face get warm. "Slept here." He wanted to be as close to his lover as possible. He wanted to be somewhere that felt like Levon. That smelled like him. Since they hadn't spent a night together at his place since before his family arrived, traces of Levon were just too faint to be sufficient for him to want to stay there.

"I know I don't usually stay here if you're not here too. I didn't think you would mind. I mean, you gave me a key, but I really should have asked first, and I would have but--"

Levon held up a hand, cutting him off. "I don't mind, Joe. It's okay." Levon studied Joe for a moment, his expression affectionate. "Joe yer always welcome here, any time you want. Don't matter if I'm here or not. Was up ta me we'd be livin' together, an' there wouldn't be your place or my place, but our place. I'm sorry. I should have said somethin' ta you sooner."

Joe stepped forward and enfolded Levon in a hug, too overwhelmed to speak. They had never talked about living together, both of them understanding that the need to maintain the appearance of being normal working partners would require maintaining separate residences. He had been reasonably certain that Levon would not object to them living together, but this was the first time he had actually said as much.

"Thanks, Cowboy."

"Any time." Levon patted him on the shoulder, pulling out of his embrace to look him in the eye. "Maybe, when things settle down, we should look inta some way ta have a place together."

"I'd like that."

"Good." Levon took a deep breath and straightened his back slightly. "Let's go meet yer family." With that, Levon turned and limped out of the bedroom.

Joe sent a silent prayer heavenward that everything would go smoothly, but knowing his family Joe wasn't about to lay odds. He followed Levon, and walked a pace behind his lover ready to offer his help if Levon should needed it. Levon made it to the kitchen and paused to sniff.

"Smells good, Rosa. What is it?"

"Lemon pepper chicken, and fettuccine Alfredo."

Levon raised an eyebrow. He shot a speculating look at Joe as he moved to sit down at the table. "Didn't even know that was in the house. You go grocery shopping?"

Joe laughed lightly. "Naturally. If what you had in this kitchen, the first time I was here is anything to go by, I don't think you even know your way to a grocery store, much less what is in one."

Levon rolled his eyes. "Very funny."

Joe was about to respond to that when he heard a car pull up. He stopped Levon's movement to stand with a firm hand on his shoulder. "Doctor said for you not to walk any more than necessary. Sit. Stay. I'll get the door."

Levon snorted, and shot a disgusted look at Joe. "Sit? Stay? What am I, some kind of dog?"

Joe grinned. "Just keep Aunt Rosa company until I get back." He winked at Levon. "We'll discuss what you are later."

Joe headed for the front door and got there just as there was soft knock. He opened the door to see Carlo and Maria waiting, and a cab pulling away. "Come in. Come in. Dinner is almost ready."

Maria stepped inside, followed closely by Carlo. She took a deep breath. "Oh, it smells wonderful. Did you cook, Joey?"

"No. Aunt Rosa did." He waved a hand toward the kitchen, ushering them toward the table.

Maria took the seat next to Levon, her expression one of concern. "Levon, how are you feeling?"

Joe could tell Levon reined in whatever came to mind first when she asked that. He couldn't help but smirk. [Bet he's tired of hearing that question.] He watched Levon mentally shift gears.

"About like ya'd expect...stiff and sore, but it only really hurts if I try ta move too fast. Feel better jus' bein' home."

Maria looked down at his right arm. Levon had rolled up his sleeve, leaving his cast readily visible, and Rosa's eyes widened at the color. "Neon green. I didn't know they came in that color."

"Neither did I." Levon said dryly. "Wasn't what I pictured when the tech said green."

Maria nodded sympathetically. "Well, I suppose it could be worse. How long do you have to wear it?"

"Doc said three weeks."

Maria opened her mouth to ask another question but Rosa smoothly cut her off. "Enough questions, Maria. It is time to eat."

Joe smiled at Rosa's authoritative approach. [Woman could have been a drill sergeant if she wanted.] Rosa placed the food on the table, waving off Joe when he moved to help. "I can do this, Joseph. Sit."

Levon sniggered when Joe quickly took the seat on the other side of him. Joe raised an eyebrow at him, Levon whispered. "Sit. Stay. Good boy."

"Behave." Joe whispered back. He could feel a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, when Levon responded with a soft "woof". He was pleased that Levon was feeling light-hearted, playful even. It went a long way toward easing his anxiety.

Joe smiled when he realized that Levon was playing on purpose. He was trying to help Joe relax. Joe gently patted Levon's leg under the table to let him know he appreciated the effort, and received a soft caress across his knuckles in response.

Carlo moved to sit next to Maria, leaving the seat at the head of the table open for Rosa. Rosa placed the food in the center of the table. She eyed the table critically for a moment. There were glasses on the table, but all were empty.

"What would you like to drink?"

"Water is fine for me." Levon stated. Joe knew he'd rather have a beer, but it wasn't a good idea to mix alcohol with medication. "There's white wine in the fridge though, if y'all want."

Rosa pulled a chilled Chardonnay from the fridge. She pursed her lips, studying the label. "I'm not familiar with this label. Is it a local wine?"

Levon's brown eyes twinkled for a moment, and Joe realized that the bottle Rosa held was Fat Bastard. It was a wine Joe had picked out of curiosity, and had developed a genuine fondness for. Levon had laughed out right when he saw the name the first time. The little hippopotamus on the label he had dubbed 'bubba.', and regularly referred to the wine by that name.

Levon answered Rosa's question with a straight face. "No, Ma'am. It's a French wine. As I understand it, the name is some reference ta a British expression that is used ta describe a rich, full-bodied wine."

Rosa shrugged. "Corkscrew?"

Joe bit his lip to keep from telling her where it was, letting Levon direct her to it. It wouldn't do for him to seem THAT familiar with is partner's kitchen. Rosa handed the bottle and the corkscrew to him to open it. He opened it and filled four glasses. Rosa retrieved a bottle of water from the fridge for Levon before joining them at the table.

Rosa bowed her head, and made the sign of the cross. Except for Levon, the rest of them followed suit. Joe knew Levon wasn't raised Catholic, so the sign of the cross was not likely to be something he understood or did routinely. He sent a look toward his lover telling him to just follow his lead. With a barely perceptible nod, Levon bowed his head, sat quietly, while Rosa said grace.

"How was the wine tour?" Joe asked, once grace had been said and they started eating. He figured Levon would appreciate having the conversation to be directed away from him and his health.

"Oh, it was very nice." Carlo answered. "I was surprised by the quality of wines available. Not to mention the size of some of the vineyards. We purchased a few bottles to take back with us."

Levon shot an "I told you so" look at Joe. "Been tellin' Joe for years that Texans can make good wine."

Joe snorted. "You don't think there is anything Texans can't do."

"Well, today there is definitely somethin' I can't do." Levon grimaced and pushed his plate toward Joe. "Do me a favor, will ya, and cut up my chicken."

Being ambidextrous, Joe never had a problem substituting one hand for the other. Levon, though, was strongly right handed. [Should have realized that he'd have trouble with some simple things sooner than this.] With a mental slap, he realized that while Levon could handle the fork with his left hand, wielding a knife to cut was another matter entirely. Joe deftly cut the chicken, and pushed the plate back.

"Thanks."

"So how large is your ranch, Levon?" Maria asked.

"Not big. Only bout thirty acres or so."

"Thirty acres?" Carlo looked stunned. "That's not large?"

"No." Levon shrugged one shoulder. "Not really. Not big enough ta do much with."

"In Chicago, you'd have to be rich to own so much land." Carlo stated, clearly impressed by how much land Levon had.

"Different land values 'tween here and there. An' how much is enough sort o' depends on what ya want ta do with it. " Levon sipped his water. "Got some ranches in the drier parts that span several hundred thousand acres."

"Why would anyone need so much?" Rosa asked, looking faintly confused. "It seems far to large for one person to use."

"Desert ain't real productive country. Takes a lot more land ta raise cattle an' horses when it only rains ten ta fifteen inches a year."

Rosa nodded. "I wasn't aware that Texas was so dry."

"Not all of it is, Rosa. If ya head up ta toward Louisiana way, it is more like the bayou. Got gators even. And most of the area along the gulf is pretty wet, but you get up 'round the panhandle and it gets dry. Same with the west end. Over toward El Paso it's jus' desert. Cactus, coyotes and snakes."

"Perhaps the next time I come to visit, I will drive so that I can see more."

"You planning another trip, Aunt Rosa?" Joe asked eagerly, already looking forward to having the opportunity to spend more time with her.

Rosa smiled. "I've thought about it. I would not mind coming to where it is warm when winter is hitting Chicago so hard." She shuddered. "Winter seems to get colder every year."

"Can't say I'd blame you." Levon gave Rosa a sympathetic look. "Don't really cotton to snow and ice either."

"Maybe we should see if some of the others would like to come down?" Maria suggested. "I'm sure Angie and Sal would love a chance to sit in the sun in January. She keeps talking about moving to Florida, and he'd like to do some deep sea fishing."

"I didn't know Sal wanted to do that."

Maria shrugged. "He just recently started talking about it. Friend of his went on a cruise and raved about the trip. Especially the fishing. So now he wants to try it."

Joe ignored the small voice that said he would know these things if he was still living in the same city. Important information was easily conveyed over the phone, and through letters, but small details often got lost. And it was impossible to get the chance to speak to everyone in the family. There were just too many of them.

"I'm sure Rafe would jump at the chance to come down again. He had a great time when he was here. Although, I seriously doubt Thomas would ever want to see Texas again." Joe commented, quickly pulling himself out of his thoughts about what he was missing before he could delve too deeply into it.

Conversation quickly took off discussing various relatives, and their preferences. Who would be willing to travel and who wouldn't. Places they would like to visit, and past trips taken. Names were bandied about in rapid succession. For the most part is was Joe, Rosa and Maria speaking, with Carlo adding occasional observations.

Realizing Levon hadn't spoken for some time, Joe looked over at his lover. He caught a look of confusion on Levon's face, and a faintly glazed look to his eyes. "Levon? Still with us?"

"I guess. Might do better with a score sheet though."

"Score sheet?"

Levon shrugged. "Or diagram maybe. Can't keep who is who straight in my head. Know everybody yer talkin' about is related somehow, but I don't really know who's a sibling, who's a cousin, which niece and nephew belong ta who."

Joe had momentarily forgotten that Levon hadn't even met most of the people they'd mentioned. And he'd never really explained his family tree and its many branches to his lover. Mentally reviewing the conversation he realized that there was no way an outsider could have possibly understood or followed most of it. [We must have mentioned a good twenty different people.]

Carlo chuckled, and tipped his head toward Levon with an empathetic look. "I know what you mean. In my family it is just myself and my two sisters. An' my mother was an only child, so the extended family I have is only from my father's side. Our family get togethers are small affairs compared to Maria's family. When I met them, I kept wishing for nametags. Or hoping they'd simply keep introducing themselves every time we met."

He smiled fondly at Maria. "We've been married over a year now, and I'm still meeting family members. I keep thinking I've met them all when more show up."

Levon shared a smile with Carlo. "You get 'em all figured out?"

"Oh no. I find myself just nodding and smiling a lot. I'm certain that many of her relatives believe me to be either a complete idiot, or mute. I can't make up my mind which is worse."

Levon laughed. He stopped abruptly with a hiss of pain, his arm moving to support his ribs. Joe reached behind him to rub gently at his back. "Okay?"

"Yeah. Jus' gotta... remember that... it hurts to laugh."

"Are you sure you're all right?" Maria looked concerned.

Levon answered her after taking a breath. "Yeah. It's not the first time I busted a few ribs. No big deal."

Maria frowned. "No big deal?" She shook her head. "No big deal is a paper cut. Broken bones are a big deal, Levon."

"It happens sometimes." Levon tried to brush it off. "Part o' the job."

Maria's eyes narrowed. "You've been hurt like this before?"

"A time or two." Levon answered her honestly.

She made eye contact with Joe. "Have you been injured on the job?"

Joe knew she was mentally picturing him in Levon's place, and there was genuine concern and fear in her eyes. As her big brother, there was a time when Joe was her hero, her protector from playground bullies, the person she could always go to when she got into trouble who would make it right. Joe realized she was beginning to understand that he was not invincible, infallible, or indestructible, and that realization wasn't one she was comfortable with. He looked away, unable to lie to his little sister, but not wanting to tell her the truth either. She correctly read his avoidance as a 'yes'.

"Why was I not told?"

"Don't take it personally, Maria. I didn't tell anyone in the family."

"Why not?"

"Because it was no big deal."

"What? Like his no big deal?" Maria waved a hand indicating Levon. "How badly were you hurt? And how often?" Both questions were asked quietly, almost as a plea.

Joe sighed. [No way out of this, so I guess I'll just be honest.] "A few bruises, Sprite. One concussion, and I got shot once or twice."

"Shot?" Maria's knuckles whitened as her grip tightened around her fork.

"Flesh wounds. No vital organs damaged, no bones broken, no emergency surgery. I wasn't even in the hospital for a day."

"Uncle Mikey said you'd be safe in Houston. This doesn't sound safe to me."

"Yeah, well, if I stayed in Chicago, I'd be dead. So Houston is a lot safer."

Under the table, Joe felt Levon's fingers brush his thigh. He captured them with one hand, and squeezed once. This topic didn't upset just Maria. A look at Levon's face, though, gave no indication of how he felt. Joe made a mental note to compliment his partner on his ability to look calm and unconcerned.

"Who looks after you when you're hurt?"

"I do." Levon interjected calmly. "Friends do that for each other. Wouldn't leave him in a lurch, same way he wouldn't leave me in one."

"But you have family that can look after you, Joey." Maria frowned at him. "If you ever told any of us, that is."

"I can't see you dropping everything to fly down here when I can take care of myself. And like Levon said, if I do need help, he helps me." Joe pointed out reasonably, hoping she would drop this soon, before she said something that made him lose his temper. Joe's eyes had narrowed at the implication that Levon was some how less able or less important because he wasn't a blood relative. [How is it that Rosa can see Levon as family, but Maria misses it completely?]

"If you quit being a cop, you could come back to Chicago. You could be close to the family again. Surely that is more important than some stupid job that could end up getting you killed."

Joe raised an eyebrow at that. "Excuse me?"

The tone of his voice warned her to tread lightly, but Maria ignored it. She leaned forwarded trying to convince him. "You could be lots of things, Joey. You're smart. You speak four languages, for crying out loud. You could go back to school, and finish getting your degree in law. You don't have to put yourself in danger for so little return. You don't have to be so far away."

Joe opened his mouth to respond, but Rosa beat him too it. "That will be enough, Maria."

"But..."

"I said, that is enough." Although not loud, Rosa's voice carried a whip like snap that commanded immediate attention and obedience. Joe hadn't heard her use that tone in a long time. He felt Levon stiffen next to him. His brown eyes looking from Rosa to Maria, clearly trying to gauge the outcome, but he didn't move to interrupt. Carlo for his part remained quiet. Joe gave him points for being smart enough to know to not interfere.

Rosa's dark eyes pinned Maria in place. "It is his life to live. Joseph has chosen an honorable profession, one that helps a great many people. By all accounts he is good at it. Very good. You will not judge the choices he has made, or his right to make his own decisions. You will respect his decisions, the same way he respects yours. "

Unable to maintain eye contact, Maria looked down at the table. "Furthermore, you are not so naïve as to believe that if Joseph gives up being a police officer, he will necessarily be guaranteed safe passage in Chicago. The world is not always a safe place. You are more than old enough to know that. And the LaFiamma family comes with some inherent dangers of its own. My husband, Daniel, was simply waiting on the sidewalk for the car to be brought around when he was shot and killed."

"I'm sorry." Maria offered, contritely, her voice very small.

Rosa nodded, seeing she had made her point. She turned toward Levon. "My apologies, Levon. As guests in your home, we should not have made such a scene. It is terribly rude, and I can only hope that you will be willing to forgive us."

"S'alright." Levon dismissed her apology as unnecessary. "Yer comfortable enough ta be yourselves, and I tend ta think that's a good thing." He winked at Rosa, and gave her an understanding look. "Gotta make allowances for family."

He reached over toward Maria, and gently placed a knuckle under her chin. When she raised her head enough to look at him, Levon smiled gently. "I know where yer comin' from, Darlin'. An' I'm sure yer brother does too. So don't fret 'bout it. No harm done."

His voice held the same soothing tone he used to settle the horses. Joe could see Maria responding to it, the tension leaving her shoulders, and her posture easing into something less defensive. Levon pulled his hand away, but continued to make eye contact with Maria.

"Everyone wants their loved ones ta be safe. So the first thing ya think, when ya find out that he might get hurt, is find a way that it won't happen. Figure he can quit, come home and ya won't have ta worry anymore. Trouble is, yer used ta thinkin' of Joe as bein' safe with y'all, and that jus' ain't the case anymore. Might be it never was, ya jus' didn't know it. Bit like findin' out the world is round, when all this time you were sure it was flat."

When Maria smiled, Levon straightened slightly, and picked up his fork. "Now, that's settled. Let's get back to eatin' dinner. Rosa made a nice meal and it would be a real shame for it ta go ta waste."

Joe shook his head, amazed at how easily the situation was defused. Tension that could have been cut with a knife had just vanished like so much fog under bright sun. [Never would have expected him handle a LaFiamma family squabble so well. But then, I really shouldn't be too surprised. I doubt arguments between him and his old man were ever this... civil.]

Joe was vastly relieved when they managed to return to lighter topics, and restored the earlier good humor. Conversation stayed light, and focused on how Rosa, Maria and Carlo planned to spend the rest of their time in Houston. Joe had wanted to cancel some things they had originally planned. He didn't want to leave Levon on his own, but he knew better than to say anything.

[One fight a night is enough. And I know he'll pitch a fit if I say something about staying with him while my family is here. He was upset just thinking he'd ruined my vacation. I don't want him to feel guilty.]

He was saved from having to say anything at all when Maria and Carlo mentioned going to Six Flags Amusement Park tomorrow. Rosa shook her head, and said firmly, "I will not be going to that."

"Why not?" Levon asked. Joe knew his lover enjoyed the park a great deal, especially the free fall ride. He'd been the one to suggest it to Joe originally when Joe had mentioned his sister's love of roller coasters.

"Because they will eat horrible, greasy food, and ride things that go too fast, and spin too much." Rosa shuddered.

Levon chuckled. "I take it ya don't like roller coaster?"

"No, most definitely not. Or any of those other rides for that matter." She paused for a moment, considering. "Perhaps I could spend the day with you while the children make themselves sick."

"Don't see where that'll be much fun. I think you'd have a better time spending the day with yer family."

"Nonsense." Rosa smiled. "I could take you up on that ride you offered. I would much prefer riding a horse to risking life and limb on some mechanical death trap."

[Having Aunt Rosa stay with Levon really would be a nice compromise. Would prefer to stay myself, but at least he wouldn't be alone, so I don't have to worry that he's doing things he shouldn't. Aunt Rosa will let him get away with even less than I would. And I can spend some time with Maria...and Carlo.]

Levon cast a quick look around the table waiting to see what the others would say. Joe quietly hoped no one would say anything against it. When no one offered objections, Levon shrugged on shoulder, still looking a bit hesitant. "If yer sure that's what you want ta do, then by all means, you're more than welcome."

"It's settled then. Joseph, Maria and Carlo can go enjoy all those noisy, nauseating rides, while you and I enjoy saner, safer things. We can all meet up again for dinner. Assuming any of you can eat after spending all day at that horrible place, eating junk food."

When dinner was finished it was Joe, Maria, and Carlo who cleared the table, and did the dishes. Levon had moved to help, but Joe shook his head. Very quietly Joe reminded him, "Doctor said for you to not walk any more than you have to. So just sit." Levon had sighed but remained seated.

Joe kept a covert watch on his partner. That he hadn't argued with Joe was not a good sign. Joe noticed the appearance of fine lines of strain around his eyes, and slight tightening of his jaw, that usually signaled when Levon was tired or hurting. Joe frowned realizing it had been over six hours since he'd last taken any medication for pain.

He was at a loss as to how to ask his family to leave. He knew Levon would refuse to take his medicine with them here. [Given that the stuff will likely knock him out again, I can't say that I blame him. For one thing, it will likely remind Maria again that he was injured, and he won't want to upset her. And for another, just because they're my family doesn't mean he'd want them hanging out in his house while he's in a drug induced stupor. Hell, I wouldn't want them hanging around MY house while I was in that state.]

Joe caught Rosa glancing at Levon. She pursed her lips in thought, and her dark eyes met his. She smiled at him, and Joe realized that she knew what he was thinking.

"Maria, Carlo, if you are ready, I would like to return to the hotel." Rosa stated. "I realize the night is still young for you, but for me, it is time to settle in for the evening. Joseph, if you would be so good as to call for a cab."

"Sure thing, Aunt Rosa." Joe was quick to grab the phone and make the call before anyone could offer objections.

The kitchen was once again immaculate by the time the cab arrived. Rosa gave Levon a kiss on the cheek. "I will see you tomorrow, Levon. Thank you for having us for dinner. It was lovely."

Levon looked a bit bemused. "Rosa, you made dinner. I ought ta be thankin' you."

Rosa's grin in response to that gave Joe a glimpse of the young woman his aunt used to be. "Yes, well, it was still lovely." She laughed lightly and quickly gathered up her purse, ready to leave. Maria and Carlo also said their goodbyes, after double checking times for when they would get together tomorrow.

Joe saw them to the door and breathed a sigh of relief when they were gone. He knew he shouldn't be quite so glad to see them go, but he couldn't help it. [Evening went well, and I wanted them to go before the other shoe dropped. Not that it would necessarily, but God knows one more bombshell, I just could not handle.]

He pushed himself away from the door, and headed back to the kitchen. Levon raised an eyebrow at him. "Okay if I get up now?" There was no hostility in the question, more resignation than anything else.

Joe smiled. "Yeah, you can get up now."

"Good." Levon got to his feet, a little shaky. Joe was quick to help steady him.

"You okay?"

Levon rolled his eyes, but Joe noted that he didn't shake off his assistance. "Yes, Mother. Jus' stiff."

"Uh-hunh. Sure." Joe didn't believe that for a minute. He helped Levon down the hall. His limp was more pronounced than earlier, and Joe was certain Levon couldn't have made it down the hall unaided. After making a quick stop at the bathroom to take care of the usual nightly rituals, it was on to the bedroom. Joe shook two pills out of the bottle he'd left sitting on the nightstand.

Levon grimaced, and shook his head. "Don't need 'em."

Joe raised an eyebrow. "I know you're hurting."

"Not so bad, I need those."

[Stubborn, pain-in-th-ass. Doesn't know what's good for him.] "Take one." Joe offered as a compromise. "It'll help you sleep."

Levon frowned, and considered it. Taking a breath, he nodded. "Jus' one."

Joe offered him a pill and a glass of water. Once he downed both, Joe helped him out of his shirt. Joe knew that when Levon was hurt or overly tired he sometimes had trouble keeping warm. So he really wasn't surprised when Levon shivered, and slid under the covers, opting to keep wearing the sweats he had on.

Joe stripped and slid in next to his lover, moving in close, mindful of his bruises and broken ribs. Levon sighed softly and snuggled in. Joe breathed in the scent of his lover, and felt the tension beginning to ease from his shoulders.

"Kind o' early for a night owl like you, ain't it?" Levon asked softly.

"Are you saying you want to sleep alone?" Joe responded in a quiet whisper, wondering just what it was about a dark bedroom that made a person speak quietly.

"Hell no." Levon answered around a near silent yawn. "Hate sleepin'... without you."

Joe smiled, and began running his fingers through Levon's hair. "That's what I thought, so don't worry about it being early for me. I'm okay right where I am." [More than okay really.]

"You... okay with... tomorrow?"

"It will be fine."

"But are... you okay... with it? Didn't mean... ta ruin yer vacation."

"My vacation is not ruined." Joe couldn't believe he was still worried about that.

"Know it... weren't what... ya planned."

"Very little in my life has ever gone according to plan, Cowboy. I've learned to be flexible. Besides, sometimes things work out better than what I'd planned. Like you and me. I didn't plan that, and I'm sure as hell not sorry."

Levon tightened his grip briefly. "Me either."

"Good." He felt Levon relaxing and becoming all but boneless. Levon's breathing was deep and even, but Joe could tell he was fighting sleep. "Go to sleep, Levon."

"Pushy, ain't ya?" Amusement was evident in Levon's voice.

"Very."

"Sit. Stay. Roll over."

Joe chuckled. "Sleep."

Levon sighed. "Gonna have...to learn...some new...tricks."

Joe wanted to tell him that he didn't think there was anything wrong with the tricks he already knew, but didn't want to encourage any more conversation. So he started to hum a lullaby very softly instead, continuing to run his fingers through Levon's hair. It wasn't much longer when he knew Levon had fallen asleep. Joe let himself just enjoy being next to his lover for awhile before following him. He'd worry about tomorrow when it got there.

Part 4