Everything on this page is fiction. Any resemblance or reference to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Fandom: Houston Knights
Series: Other Authors
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: Joe/Levon
Archive: Starwinder's
Title: Partners, Friends, and Lovers: Part 3
Author: Katherine Lehman
e-mail: ksl2025@yahoo.com
Standard Disclaimer: Houston Knights belongs to Jay Bernstein and Michael Butler and Columbia Pictures. No copyright infringement is intended. This is fan fiction, written out of love for the shows. I am making no money off this. I have no money so please don't sue me. Any original characters that may appear in these stories are the property of the author.

Story Synopsis: Joe and Levon attend a three-day seminar in Dallas. During the course of those three days they learn a little something about each other's pasts. There are a few slight deviations from the show's canon. Nothing major, but for those purists, I thought I'd let you know that I kept Joe in school longer.

Partners, Friends, and Lovers
Chapter 3
By Katherine Lehman

Seminar: Day One

Levon Lundy sighed quietly. He checked his watch before glancing up from his notebook to see if the speaker was still talking. [This guy should come with some kind of warning label. Damn monotone could be deadly. Whoever scheduled him, as the last speaker should be drug out into the street and shot. Repeatedly.]

Levon smiled fondly at the soundly sleeping, handsome man at his right, his partner, Joe LaFiamma. Joe had given up all pretense of listening some ten minutes after this speaker started talking. [Least he ain't snoring.]

Levon shook his head, not really blaming Joe for falling asleep. In addition to Mr. Monotone, as Levon had mentally dubbed the speaker, the room was too warm. And dimming the lights had been a major mistake. There were only a handful of hardy souls, besides Levon, that were still awake enough to actually be listening.

Levon's gaze came back to rest on the paper in front of him. He'd spent the better part of the afternoon doodling. It helped to keep him awake, and at the same time created the illusion he was actually paying attention. At least one of them had to stay awake because Joanne was sure to ask them about this seminar. [Another two days of this!! Dear God. We musta pissed her off but royal to get sent to this damn thing.]

Levon sighed again. That thought wasn't entirely fair. Joanne had probably thought she was doing them a favor. The past few weeks had been stressful; to say the least, and three days in Dallas probably didn't seem like such a bad thing. It wasn't like she really had a choice. The Chief of Police was adamant that every department send a team to this seminar. Levon snorted thinking about the title. Coordinating Agency Efforts In Law Enforcement. [Uh-huh. Sure. That'll be the day.]

He had to admit that the speakers they'd heard that morning were rather interesting. Both he and Joe had honestly learned a few things. It wasn't until after lunch, that the whole thing started to seem like some sort of refined form of torture. A scheduling error at the hotel had forced them to switch rooms. This one was hot, stuffy and the seats ranked right up there with the comfort level of economy class on most airplanes.

Levon glanced over at Joe again. Joe had removed his jacket, balled it up and used it as a pillow. He'd also rolled up his sleeves, and undone the top few buttons of his silk shirt. Levon could just make out the pendant he'd given Joe two months ago. Every time he inhaled, it flickered in the faint light.

Right up until he'd given it to Joe, Levon hadn't been entirely certain his gift would be well received. He knew his friend, Sam, made beautiful things, and having created the design himself, he had no doubt that it would be a true work of art. He just wasn't certain enough of where their relationship stood to offer it. At least not until Joe had finally let him know how committed to their relationship he was. He saw no reason to wait after that, and offering it been easy. He knew that since then, Joe had only removed the pendant long enough to shower. Levon had no doubts about how much he treasured it.

The Texan had a fierce desire to simply spend his time taking in the view his sleeping lover presented, but he knew it wouldn't be a good idea to be caught doing so. Although among the minority, he wasn't the only one still awake. With a small sigh of regret, Levon forced his eyes away from the tantalizing image his lover presented, and looked back at the speaker.

Finally, he was getting to something that could be called a closing statement. Levon nudged Joe with an elbow and was rewarded with a grunt and a sleepy, blue-eyed glare.

"Rise and shine, LaFiamma. Looks like this is about over." Levon whispered.

Joe straightened up in his chair. He rubbed both hands over his face, and made an effort to look more alert. Joe nodded toward Levon's notebook. "You take notes?" he asked in a low voice.

"More or less...emphasis on less. Got the important point."

Joe raised an eyebrow. "There was a point?"

Levon grinned. "Yep." The speakers talk had been entitled, "Evidence Contamination, and How to Avoid Forensic Errors."

"What was it?"

"Don't touch anything."

Joe snorted, and looked at his watch. "It took him an hour and a half to say that. He couldn't have condensed it a little?".

Levon shrugged. "Count yer blessings. Least he's the last one."

"For today, anyway. Wanna bet they'll be worse tomorrow?"

"Always gotta look on the bright side, don't cha, LaFiamma?"

Joe's reply was lost when the light came on full. Both men blinked at the sudden illumination. There was scattered applause though out the audience. Levon suspected it was more from relief that it was finally over than as any true statement of what the audience thought of the speaker. One of the organizers appeared on stage to thank them all for coming, and to remind them that the seminar would reconvene tomorrow at 9:00 am.

"What do you say we get the hell out of here while the getting is good?" Joe suggested

"I say amen, brother. Amen."

Levon watched appreciatively as Joe rose and stretched. He found himself admiring his partner's easy grace, and dark good looks. [Damn, he's a handsome man.] Realizing he was staring again, Levon shook himself, and stood. He felt stiff from having been in one position for so long. It was one of life's little mysteries how spending an entire day more or less inactive could be so damn exhausting.

They made their way toward the door, moving easily through the crowd of other attendees. There were several hundred people present, all representing different agencies and branches of law enforcement. Federal, state, and local organizations had all sent representatives.

Levon couldn't help the faint smirk he felt creep across his face as he silently watched the federal agents moving toward the door ahead of him. [Can always pick 'em out o'crowd. Suits and ties all the way.] Some part of him sincerely hoped they'd been very uncomfortable all afternoon.

He turned toward Joe to share his sentiment when he noticed the change in Joe's posture. Someone less in tune with his body language wouldn't notice the subtle difference in the set of his shoulders, or how he shifted his weight to balance more on the balls of his feet. Joe was definitely preparing for some kind of confrontation. [Seen that look on his face before. Never bodes well.]

Not sure what would cause his partner's sudden change in attitude, Levon scanned the crowd before them. A federal agent was making a beeline in their direction. Out of habit, Levon made note of his appearance. Roughly 5'10", medium build, approximately 180 pounds, blond, blue eyes, somewhere between 45 and 50 years old. Typical clean cut look that most FBI agents sported. Not knowing exactly what it was about this man that set Joe on edge and knowing there was no way to avoid him, Levon decided to wait, letting Joe take the lead.

The man smiled easily. Levon couldn't help but think it was the same smile he usually saw on used car salesmen. He stopped in front of Joe, searching his face. "Joseph LaFiamma? It is you, isn't it?"

"Special Agent Harris." Levon noticed that Joe's tone was definitely not one of welcome. [I do believe, Mr. Harris could get frostbite just from that. Wonder what he did to piss off my partner.]

"You have to be the last person I expect to run into in Dallas. I thought you were still in Chicago."

"If that's true, then you haven't been doing your job." Joe's tone was getting colder by the minute.

Harris looked a bit embarrassed at that, but undeterred he turned to Levon and held out a hand. "I don't believe we've met. I'm Special Agent Harris. I work with the Bureau's Organized Crime Division in Chicago."

Levon glanced at the offered hand, but didn't shake it. "Sergeant Lundy. Houston P.D. LaFiamma's partner." His tone made it clear he wasn't any more interested in conversation than Joe had been. Levon didn't care for FBI agents just on general principle. And since Joe's whole demeanor indicated he had taken a personal dislike to this particular agent, it was more than enough reason to be rude.

Harris' smile turned a little rueful, and he dropped his hand. Turning back toward Joe, he said, "Guess I shouldn't have expected a warm reception from you or your partner."

"No you shouldn't have." Joe moved to shoulder past Harris.

Harris deftly stepped in front of him. "Look.... Okay, I know about what happened that got you exiled to Houston. Watching the Families is what I do. It's my job to know stuff like that." He took a breath, his expression earnest. "I was thinking that maybe now, given everything that's happened, you'd be more interested in what I have to say."

"You thought wrong."

Once more Joe moved to step passed Harris, and Harris again stepped in front of him. Joe positively radiated barely controlled hostility. [This boy is a real slow learner. In a minute Joe is just gonna let him have it.]

"Maybe we could get a drink. Talk for a bit and..."

"No."

"If you would just give me a minute to..."

With the speed of a striking snake, Joe reached out with both hands. Levon noted that instead of a simple straight grab, Joe had crossed his wrists, one over the other, so that when he wrapped his hands in Harris' jacket lapels he could pull the fabric tightly across his throat, effectively choking him.

Levon couldn't help but admire that move. It was subtle, quick and very smooth. [Nice. Very nice.] Joe had also pulled Harris up slightly so he was balancing on his toes. There was no way he would be able to easily escape Joe's hold.

Levon kept one eye on the other people in the room hoping no one would notice his partner effectively choking the life out of a federal agent. [Wouldn't do for any of Harris' coworkers to get involved. Now that could get ugly.] So far they'd been lucky and no one was paying much attention to them.

With Joe's face only inches from Harris', he spoke in a quiet, almost conversational voice, that belied its deadly nature. "No, means no. I wasn't interested then, and I'm not interested now." Joe emphasized his point by tightening his grip. "Understand?" Joe waited for Harris to acknowledge.

"Yes." His reply was really little more than a movement of his lips.

Joe nodded once sharply. "Good. Now you just pretend that you never saw me, and we didn't have this little conversation. You speak to me again, or come anywhere near me, and I will shoot you. Right. Between. The. Eyes." Joe punctuated each word by increasing the pressure on Harris' throat.

They were starting to draw attention, so Levon reached out a hand and carefully encircled one of Joe's wrists. "Better let up now, Joe. Man's lips are turning blue. The lieutenant ain't gonna be happy if she hears you killed a federal agent and started a riot here. 'Sides the paperwork on that would take the rest of our natural lives, and that ain't how I wanna spend mine."

Joe glanced over at Levon. The icy fury in his eyes abated, and he smirked slightly. "You're right. The paperwork would be a bitch." With that he released, Harris, and walked away.

Harris gasped, rubbing at his throat. He looked at Levon, and croaked, "Thank you."

Levon shook his head slightly. "You can thank me by doing like Joe said. Just pretend you never saw him, and stay the hell out of his way." Levon moved to walk away, then stopped and looked back over his shoulder. "Just so you know, he meant what he said about shootin' you." With that Levon walked off to find his partner.

He found Joe near the elevators. Levon decided it might be best to wait until they were back in their room before bringing up what just happened. It would give Joe a chance to cool off, and there was no need to air any more laundry in a public setting. The trip in the elevator and to the room was made in silence.

Once safely in their room, Levon asked quietly, "You wanna tell me what that was all about?"

Joe stalked across the room. He kept his back to Levon, facing the windows. "I'd rather not."

"You, my friend, just assaulted a federal agent in a room full of witnesses. And to add insult to injury, you threatened to kill the man! Behavior like that requires an explanation!"

Joe's back stiffened, but he didn't turn around. "It's personal, Lundy."

"I figured that much out on my own, thank you very much. You wanna start tellin' me what it is I don't know?"

"Just leave it alone."

"No can do."

Joe spun around to face him. "And why in the hell not?"

"Because when Joanne finds out about this, and you know she will, it'll be both our asses. I want to know what it is I put my butt on the line for."

"You'd tell her?" Joe looked shocked.

"Don't be stupid. I didn't just keep you from killin' Harris so I could go runnin' to Joanne." Levon shouted. Taking a deep breath, he tried to keep his voice level. "It don't have to be me that tells her. Anyone in that room could have seen what was goin' on. You know that, as well as I do. And Harris might not be willin' to just let it lie."

"He won't tell anyone about this."

"You seem pretty damn sure of that."

"I know him."

"I got that detail already. Any time you wanna chime in with new information, you be my guest."

Joe ran his fingers savagely through his hair. Levon leaned back against the door, and crossed his arms over his chest, as Joe began pacing the room like a caged tiger. Mentally, he began counting to see just how long it would take for his volatile partner to open up. He'd reached the count of twenty when Joe spoke again.

"It's a long story."

"Well it ain't like I got to catch a train."

"Maybe we should go get something to eat first?"

"We can eat later. This place offers room service till midnight." Levon watched as Joe made another circuit of the room. "Talk to me." He was careful to make that sound like a request and not an order. "Please."

Joe stopped pacing long enough to make eye contact. "Fine. Sit down already." Joe waved a hand toward a chair. "One of us might as well be comfortable."

Levon moved to sit in one of the plush chairs. He took off his Stetson, placing it upside down on the nearby table, and then leaned back to wait. He watched Joe continue to pace the confines of the room. [Was me, I'd get dizzy doin' that.]

"For you to understand this, I have to give you some history."

"Fair enough."

Joe stopped pacing again to study Levon's face. Levon wasn't sure what to make of Joe's expression, so he just waited silently. He didn't know where this was going to go, so he had no idea of what to say that would make it easier for his partner. [Sometimes it's best not to say anything with him. Finds the words faster on his own if I just wait long enough.]

Joe sighed quietly, and began to speak softly. "Everyone in Chicago knows that the LaFiamma family is connected to the mob. It's sort of an open secret. The whole time I was growing up, it was like this... forgone conclusion that I would join the family business like every one else. Start out as some hired muscle and work my way up the ladder. Or take over for Uncle Mikey on some of the smaller details, like gambling or prostitution." Joe snorted in disgust. "No one ever asked me what I wanted to do with my life. They'd already planned it for me, so why ask?"

Joe resumed pacing. "So the time comes for me to make my own choices. I wanna go to college. I decided that being a no-neck, dumber than a box of rocks, stereotypical mob muscle man was not for me."

Joe glanced over at Levon, his expression serious. "You gotta understand that I knew a lot of guys like that. They were always hanging around my uncle. It got so I just thought of them as honorary uncles... you know, part of the family, without being blood relatives."

Joe's expression turned bitter and his voice went hard and cold. "Most of the time they get treated like some kind of goddamn dog. Do what you're told, when you're told. Sit. Stay. Attack. Clean up the mess. " Joe sighed and shook his head. "Even though I was only seventeen, and didn't know all the particulars at the time, I knew I didn't want that."

Joe started pacing again. Levon waited for several minutes before he asked quietly, "Was yer family upset that you wanted ta go ta school?"

Joe smiled sadly. "Hell, no. No one had a problem with me going to college. I was always a good student, a bright kid. No one objected because even in mob families there is some semblance of being normal. And normal means that bright kids are supposed to go off to college. They all thought I was going to be a business major, because that would work with the Family interests. There was only one problem. I wasn't interested in studying business."

Levon smiled slightly. "I have trouble picturing you in a three piece suit."

"Yeah, me too. " Joe gave him a matching smile before he took a deep breath and turned serious again. "Anyway, Uncle Mikey thinks that's a great thing. Especially when I open my mouth and say I think I might want to be a lawyer."

"Let me guess. You went from being a muscle man to a mouth piece?"

"Something like that. Wasn't right away, but the closer I got to finishing my degree, the more I realized that everyone still expected me to go to work for the mob. I had just spent several years of my life studying the law, and I've got people waiting for me to graduate so they can put me to work subjugating it."

"Left a bad taste in your mouth, didn't it?"

"Very."

"So... you quit school?" Knowing how much value Mother Minnie had placed on his doing more in college than just playing football, Levon couldn't help but think of quitting school as a rather drastic solution.

Joe nodded. "I just couldn't see how I could finish my degree, and start a practice that wouldn't involve my family. Several of my cousins were talking about sending business my way, and the firm that represents Uncle Mikey wanted to know if I was interested in a position. I just couldn't see myself spending my life defending people I knew... knew without a doubt, were guilty."

"I can understand that."

Joe smiled warmly at Levon. "I thought you might."

"Why didn't you just change your major? Find something else to be?"

"I thought about it. But the last semester I was there, I took a class in police procedure. Spent my time riding around with a couple of uniformed officers."

"You got hooked." Levon stated.

"I got hooked." Joe agreed. "Decided that I could put my education to work just as well being a cop."

"How'd the family take it?"

"It was sort of a mixed bag. Some, like Uncle Mikey, were okay with, figuring it was my life and I was entitled to live it my way. Some thought it was just a rebellious phase, something I'd grow out of. And others thought I would be an asset to the family. Sort of an automatic in with the police force."

"Must have been dumb ones who thought that." At Joe's raised eyebrow, Levon continued, "Hell, I knew from the day I met you, that you were too honest to ever be a dirty cop."

Levon was stunned by Joe's reaction to his simple statement of fact.

Joe stepped over to him, leaned down, captured his mouth, and kissed him passionately and thoroughly. It was several minutes later before Joe released him.

When Levon caught his breath he asked, "Not that I'm complaining, but what was that for?"

"For being the first person to know that I am not, nor could I ever be, a dirty cop."

"Well, you're welcome." Levon grinned. He sobered quickly. "So far none of this explains your reaction to Special Agent Harris."

Joe sighed, and rubbed his cheek against Levon's hair. "I'm getting to that. Like I said, I wanted you to have the history. Sort of puts the rest of it into perspective." Joe straightened up. Levon expected him to start pacing again, but he sat down in the opposite chair.

"I started the academy that fall. Like I said earlier, everyone knows what my family does. Some of the instructors, and quite a few of the other cadets, thought the same thing as some of my family. This was some sort of joke, or that I was only there to become a dirty cop. So in addition to proving myself to the family, I had to do it with them as well."

"Must have been rough." Levon offered sympathetically.

"It wasn't easy," Joe shrugged, "but it wasn't anything I couldn't handle. The harder they made it for me, the more determined I became to prove them wrong. And after awhile they started to think of me as just another guy. Until Harris showed up that is."

"He came with all the feds usual subtlety and tact, I suppose."

"Oh yeah, did he ever." Joe shook his head in disgust. "He shows up at the academy with a parade of guys in dark suits and glasses. They call me out of class, in front of God and everyone, like I was in high school and had to be sent to the principal's office."

Levon could tell the incident still made his lover angry. "Harris isn't exactly the sharpest knife in the drawer, huh?"

"No." Joe looked at the floor before making eye contact with Levon. "But then Ruby Ridge and Waco hadn't happened yet, so the FBI still operated like they could do no wrong. That stupid prick actually thought I'd be grateful for the attention."

Levon reached out to caress Joe's cheek with the back of his hand. "In walks the FBI, and everyone's worst thoughts are somehow confirmed by their presence. So all the blood, sweat and tears you'd put into being accepted on your own terms was for nothing. That about the way it went down?"

Levon turned his hand to cup Joe's face, and Joe leaned in to that touch closing his eyes. "Yeah. That would just about sum it up nicely. It was worse than when I first got there. Instead of starting out at square one, I was in the hole."

"Why did Harris pick you?"

Joe smiled sadly. "His group had my family under surveillance for years. They had wiretaps on every phone, video cameras, pictures... you name it, they have it. He thought my going to the academy might give them the break they needed to finally get the goods on Uncle Mikey and the rest."

"He wanted you to turn on your family?" Levon was appalled. He didn't approve of what Joe's family did for a living, but they were his family. And a blind man should have been able to see that his family meant the world to Joe. He might not have wanted to be a part of the Family business, but that didn't mean he no longer wanted to be part of his family.

Joe sighed. "He gave me this song and dance routine about what a great opportunity this was for me to put, and I quote, 'some of Chicago's worst scumbags in jail.' Never mind the fact that I was related to half of them. He starts telling me what a great career move this would be, and how if I am serious about a job in law enforcement I can't afford to pass this up. He wanted me to go in undercover and help them take down my family."

"What did you tell him?"

"I told him to go to hell."

Levon chuckled. "You got a real way with words there, Joe."

Joe glared at him. "I suppose you think I should have taken the job."

"Didn't say that."

"You didn't have to." Joe sprang out of the chair and began pacing again. "Hell, everyone else, and I do mean everyone, thought I should have taken the offer. My turning them down was just proof that I really didn't want to be a good cop."

Levon sighed quietly, before moving to stand in front of Joe, effectively stopping his partner's latest lap around the room. He calmly met Joe's angry blue eyes. "Don't go puttin' words in my mouth, boy. You ought ta know me better by now. Just because everyone else thought you should have taken Harris' offer, don't mean I think that. All I meant was there was probably a better way to say no. I know why you turned him down."

"Oh really! Why?" Joe shot back angrily.

"Because going undercover means you step out of your life into someone else. Which means that eventually you get to have your life back. If you had said yes, you wouldn't have a life anymore. I might not totally understand the relationship you've got with your uncle, but I understand family. And I know how much they mean to you."

His own relationship with his family was nothing like Joe's. Outside of Mother Minnie, most of his family was not important part of his life. For Levon, the less he saw of his family the better. But for Joe, an extended family played a central role. They were literally everything to him.

Levon sighed softly. "Hell, you were upset for weeks after you got sent down here, because you couldn't just visit them whenever you wanted like you used to. I can't imagine what you'd be like if you were ever totally cut off. No phone calls, no letters, no Christmas cards, no pictures of nieces and nephews as they grew up. Because once you did what Harris asked he'd have you shipped off to... wherever, and you'd never have any contact with any of them again. Ever. Assuming, of course, that they let you live that long."

Levon watched his partner carefully as his anger faded away.

"Why didn't anyone else see that?" Joe's question was almost a plea for understanding.

"Cause most people see only what they want to. They wanted you to fit in the box they already had. When you didn't..." Levon shrugged.

"You already know how that works."

He stepped back and studied Joe warily. [Definitely more to this story.] "Based on what I saw downstairs, Harris, isn't exactly the kind of man to take no for an answer."

"He is one persistent son-of-a-bitch." Joe grimaced. "He made more than one offer, and I always told him the same thing. While I was a cadet, it wasn't anymore than him just asking. Once I started working as a patrolman, he started to try pressuring my commanding officer."

"Didn't work?" Levon sat down again, sensing Joe needed to start pacing once more.

"Welsh hated the mob and the FBI with equal passion. With someone else they might have made headway in trying to force the issue, but not him. He was one tough cookie. A real stickler for doing things the right way, and not just by the book, if you know what I mean."

Joe looked over at Levon. "Department policy was that undercover work was done strictly on a volunteer basis. And Welsh made it very clear, to both Harris and the higher ups, that if I didn't want to volunteer, he wasn't going to order me to. Said the department had enough trouble finding good men, and he'd be damned if he was going to give up one he didn't have to."

Levon chuckled at that. "I think I would have liked him."

Joe sighed. "Unfortunately, Harris decided to try and force me into volunteering."

"How?"

"They would make little busts here and there, and then let is slip that I was the one who'd given them the information. He wanted it to seem like I was some kind of stoolie."

Levon went completely still. He forced himself to take a deep breath, and then another. His hands gripped the arms of the chair so tightly his knuckles turned white. [That stupid, vindictive son-of-a-bitch. I should have let Joe strangle him.]

It took him several minutes to get his rage under control enough to speak. And judging by the look on Joe's face, he'd better say something soon. His partner was starting to look worried.

"Jesus, Joe. Was he trying to get you killed?" Levon breathed out in a harsh whisper.

"Not exactly. I think he wanted to force me into a position where I had to either go to the FBI for protection, or give up being a cop."

"How bad did it get?" Levon asked quietly.

Joe stopped pacing. He shook his head. "It wasn't..."

"How bad, Joe?" Levon asked again with a little more force. He had to know.

"Harris kept up the pressure, and people were starting to think I really was some kind of stoolie. Uncle Mikey let me know that he didn't believe any of it, but that some of the others weren't quite so trusting. Mikey never really did business at home, but it was getting close to the point where I wasn't really welcome at his house. My being there was... well, just too damn, difficult for everyone."

Joe sighed softly, and Levon could see just how much it hurt for him to say that. He hated to see his lover in any kind of pain. [Don't think Harris will have to worry about Joe. I might just shoot him myself the next time I see him.]

Joe ran his fingers through his hair. With a wry smile he continued speaking. "Some of the other cops were worried about working with me. No one ever said anything out right, but it was getting harder and harder to get back up. They didn't want to get caught in any cross fire, and to be honest I can't really blame them."

[Well, I can, and I do. You never leave a fellow cop vulnerable like that. Ever.] Levon thought savagely, but refrained from saying so. Instead he asked, "Well, you obviously didn't quit or join the FBI, so what happened?"

"I was wearing a wire when I went to see Harris."

[Atta boy. That's using your head.] Levon grinned. "You got the prick on tape."

"Yeah, I did. Got the whole sordid little story on tape, and then I took it to Welsh. He was absolutely livid."

"I can imagine." [Kind of glad I didn't know all this downstairs. Livid, wouldn't even begin to cover it.]

"Welsh went to the higher ups, and even took on Harris' boss. He said it was bad enough that we had to deal with criminals, putting our lives on the line just doing our jobs. Said he'd be damned if he was going to see one of his put at risk just because some fucking fed felt the need for an ego stroke."

"Harris was forced to back off?"

Joe nodded. "I didn't see or hear from him until today." Joe shrugged one shoulder. "That is... if you don't count the day of Szabo's funeral."

"He showed up at the funeral? Man must have cast iron balls." Levon shook his head in disgust. [Who in the hell shows up at a funeral for God's sake? Bastard.]

"No, it wasn't Harris. An FBI agent I'd never met before waited around for me after the funeral. He never said so, but I'm sure he either worked with or for Harris. He'd heard about the hit out on me, and thought I might want to come in for my own protection." Joe snorted. "Made his offer a little too late. Uncle Mikey had already worked out the deal that got me sent to Houston."

"Would you have taken his offer if your uncle hadn't already worked something out?" Levon was careful not to show just how much the answer to that question meant to him. He wasn't always certain, even now, after four years and the relatively new nature of their relationship, just how Joe felt about having to stay in Houston.

"No! Not just no, but hell no."

Levon smiled, reassured by the vehemence with which Joe had answered. "Good. I kind of like having you in Houston."

Joe smiled back. The nervous and angry tension his whole body had been radiating since they began this conversation suddenly transformed into something entirely different. He walked over to Levon and leaned down so that his face was only inches from Levon's. The intensity of his gaze made Levon shiver.

"You only kind of like having me?" Joe's voice dropped to a seductive whisper.

"I love having you." Levon answered in a husky whisper of his own. "Can't imagine my life without you."

Joe responded to that statement with a warm smile.

"You heard enough of this story that we can move on to better things?" Joe ran his fingers through Levon's hair, playing with the blond curls. [God, that always feels so good.]

"Depends on what you had in mind?" Levon moved his hands to run lightly down Joe's sides and across his hips. He let his hands ghost over Joe's ass, and down his thighs. He didn't know why, but feather light touches got to Joe faster than anything else.

"I think I've got the same thing in mind that you do, Cowboy." Joe leaned forward slightly to rest his forehead against Levon's, maintaining eye contact.

[Love it when his eyes go black like that.] Levon brought his hands up and around so that they traveled the front of Joe's thighs. He teased him a little by moving past his groin without touching it, and up to his chest. He moved across Joe's chest, out and down his arms. Levon tugged gently at his wrists, until Joe rested his hands on the arms of the chair. He pulled away just enough that he could angle his head to kiss Joe. Butterfly soft to start and then with more passion.

Levon nibbled lightly on Joe's lips requesting entrance. Once Joe opened up, he plunged his tongue into that warm, wet cavity, hungrily tasting his lover. Joe's tongue darted into Levon's mouth, and Levon sucked gently. Joe moaned softly into his mouth.

Joe shifted his weight back slightly. Levon followed not wanting to lose contact. Another shift, and with very little effort they were suddenly on the floor. Taking advantage of this new position, Levon stretched out over his lover, enjoying the full body contact.

Reluctantly, he released Joe's mouth. He nuzzled Joe's neck, breathing deeply, taking in his scent. [God, but he smells good.] Levon nibbled and licked his way as far down Joe's chest as the already open buttons would allow.

"You mind if I have my way with you?" Levon asked. He ran a hand over Joe's crotch, grinning when his partner arched into that touch.

"No.... I don't mind. Be... my guest." Joe gasped

With one hand caressing Joe's crotch and the other in his hair, Levon undid the buttons on Joe's shirt one at a time with his teeth. Seeing the look on Joe's face as he did so made Levon chuckle.

"Where did... you learn to do... that?"

"Misspent youth. I'll tell you all about it some other time." With that Levon leaned in for another kiss. He loved the way Joe responded to his touch. Joe was a very vocal lover. Levon had come to think of his moans and sighs as a sort of music, and Joe the instrument he played.

With a controlled, yet powerful thrust of his hips, Joe flipped them over. Levon smiled slightly. The move hadn't surprised him. It was far more often the case that Joe had his way with Levon, than the other way around. Levon didn't really object. Joe liked to be in control, and Levon didn't mind giving him free rein. They both got what they wanted in the end anyway.

Joe deftly unbuttoned Levon's shirt. Levon arched into his touch when Joe began playing with his nipples. Joe's warm, wet tongue laved one and then the other. He bit down ever so gently. Levon couldn't help but hiss in pleasure. "Feels good... real good, Joe."

Joe's smiled was decidedly wicked. "I know."

Levon sighed softly, enjoying the caress. He ran his fingers through Joe's hair, delighting in the feel of it. He loved having someone play with his hair, and he knew Joe liked it to. He ran his hands along Joe's neck and shoulders, massaging gently as he went.

Joe began kissing and nibbling his way down Levon's abdomen. In between kisses he murmured. "Can't understand how... you can have... such a flat stomach... when you never... work out."

"Just lucky... I guess."

With practiced ease, Joe undid Levon's belt. "Lift up," he ordered, his hands ready to slide off Levon's jeans.

"Pushy ain't ya?" Levon asked with a smile, but obligingly raised his hips off the floor. Levon toed out of his boots when Joe got his jeans and briefs down to about his knees, letting him pull them all the way off. He propped himself up on one elbow, and made a show of studying Joe. His partner flushed slightly under his heated gaze.

"I think you're over dressed."

Joe gave him another one of those wicked little smiles as he casually caressed one of Levon's thighs and then the other. "You think so?"

Levon took a deep breath when Joe's hand encircled his penis. His breathing became ragged as Joe began leisurely moving his hand. Levon reached out to cup Joe's face, caressing his cheek with his thumb. He couldn't really explain it, but being able to touch Joe's face always seem so incredibly intimate.

With a soft sigh, he let his hand slid down Joe's neck, and to his chest. He couldn't help but smile when Joe's eyes closed, and he moaned. He let his hand drift further, coming to rest over Joe's crotch. He matched his featherlike up and down touch to Joe's stroke on his penis.

"Need more... harder... please... Levon... please. " Joe was almost sobbing, his breathing was as ragged as Levon's.

Levon slowly undid Joe's fly, delighting in what he knew was an exquisite sort of agony. Joe's hips bucked when Levon finally encircled his shaft and began to match him stroke for stroke.

On each up stroke, Levon used his thumb to rub across the tip of Joe's penis, circling the head. He used the pad of his thumb to gently tease the glans. Joe moaned, biting his lower lip.

"You like that?"

"Yes. God, yes." Joe let his head fall back, exposing his throat.

Watching his pulse point, Levon couldn't resist nibbling that exposed vulnerable area. As always, he was careful not to leave a mark where it might show.

Levon could feel his own orgasm building, as faint tremors began running up and down his body. Joe could feel it too, and increased the tempo of his movements.

"Feels so... good. God... Joe. So close... so close."

When Joe leaned in to suckle one nipple, while his free hand tweaked the other, Levon came hard. He was only vaguely aware of Joe's own release as he came all over Levon's hand.

They both rested their heads on each other's shoulder, waiting for their breathing to return to normal.

Levon had no idea how long they lay like that enjoying the afterglow. He turned his head to place a tender kiss on Joe's temple. He nuzzled Joe's hair, liking the feel of it against his cheek. "You okay, Joe?"

"Okay? I am so much more than okay."

Levon smiled at that. [Yeah, me too, Joe. Me too.] Not with out regret, Levon rolled away, and stretched.

"You look like a cat when you do that." Joe grinned. He reached out and ran one hand down Levon's chest. "One that got cream for dinner."

At the mention of dinner, Levon's stomach growled loudly.

Joe laughed. "Another country heard from."

"You wanna get somethin' to eat?"

"I don't know about you, but I am not going out in public looking like this?"

Levon let his eyes drift over Joe from head to toe, enjoying the view. "Why not? You look great just the way you are." Levon found it faintly amusing when Joe blushed and ducked his head. [How can a man look as good as he does and be embarrassed to be told that?]

"How about room service?" Joe offered.

Levon nodded. "Sounds like a plan."

In one graceful move he rose to his feet. Not bothering to dress, and still wearing just his unbuttoned shirt, Levon made his way over to the nightstand. [Thought I saw a menu in here when we checked in.]

Levon didn't give his state of undress a thought until he bent over to search the drawer of the nightstand. He heard a faint hitch in Joe's breathing that sounded like a soft moan. Levon felt a wicked little grin spread across his face. [Teasing him can be so much fun.]

Straightening up, menu in hand, Levon casually turned to rest his butt against the nightstand, giving Joe a full frontal view. He leaned back slightly, and made a point of looking like he was totally unaware of the effect he was having. He studied the menu, while he let one hand lazily rub his chest. Sighing softly, he then ran the same hand through his hair.

Levon glanced up from the menu when he heard another faint moan. Joe was staring at him, his expression one of hungry desire, his blue eyes focused totally on Levon. Crossing his legs as the ankles, and leaning back even further, Levon asked nonchalantly, "What are you in the mood for?"

"Don't think what I'm in the mood for is on that menu."

Levon frowned down at the menu to keep from smiling. "You sure? They got a pretty wide selection." It was so very difficult to make his voice sound normal.

Out of the corner of his eye, he could just make out Joe rising to his feet. With a great deal of effort, Levon managed to keep his own breathing even. [Damn, he is beautiful. Like some kind of Greek statue come to life.]

"They got healthy stuff on here." Levon pretended to study the menu, and tried not to notice Joe stalking toward him like some large cat on the hunt. He straightened up, stretching provocatively, as he did so.

"Don't have barbeque. Doubt it'd be as good as Chicken's anyway. Should ought to be something here to suit both of us. You wanna look?" Levon asked in a husky whisper. He turned toward Joe, and offered him the menu.

With a soft growl, Joe slapped it away, and lunged at Levon, knocking him down on the bed. Joe followed Levon on to the bed, using his weight to hold him down. He captured his mouth in a kiss that was almost painful in its intensity.

When Joe finally came up for air, Levon chuckled softly. "Guess dinner will have to wait a bit."

"You did say they served room service until midnight." Joe nuzzled his neck, sucking and biting delicately.

Levon tilted his head back to give Joe better access. "I seem... to remember... saying... something along... those lines."

"Good. We'll eat later."

It was over an hour later before they actually got around to ordering room service.


Seminar Day Two

Joe shifted again trying to get comfortable. The seminar had resumed in the same room it had been held in yesterday afternoon. The room was still too hot, the seats were still uncomfortable, and the speakers were even more boring. [God, I must have done something really awful in a past life to warrant this kind of agony.]

Joe glanced over at his partner. Levon hadn't moved since the current speaker began talking. It was mystery to Joe how he could sit so still. Unlike Joe, Levon never seemed to feel the need to just simply move solely for the sake of moving.

Because of his relaxed attitude and laid-back approach to things, Joe has assumed that Levon was lazy when they had first met. It didn't take long to realize that wasn't the case at all. It was rare that his partner simply sat still doing nothing. Levon's considerable level of physical activity was easily overlooked, because whenever he was in motion, it was always directed, purposeful. He almost never made restless or aimless movements. Joe had come to envy Levon's graceful, economy of motion.

Joe watched as Levon wrote something in the notebook he'd brought with him. He loved to watch his hands. Those beautiful, long-fingered, elegant hands that could be so gentle, so clever, that could make him feel so very good. He took a deep breath, and forced himself to look elsewhere and think about something else.

Joe cast a glance about the room, taking in the rest of the audience. He found himself looking for Special Agent Harris, and couldn't help feeling relieved when he didn't find him. If he were really lucky, Harris would not approach him again.

He didn't want to deal with another confrontation. Especially when he hadn't exactly told Levon everything. He'd seen the rage Levon had only just managed to control when he'd mentioned Harris' extreme attempts to recruit him for the FBI had potentially endangered his life. The white knuckled grip on the chair, the way his body had gone completely still, and his carefully neutral expression were as blatant a warning as an air raid siren.

Levon's anger on his behalf had on one hand been reassuring, but on the other hand it had frightening. While easily angered, it was rare for the cowboy to actually lose control. Oh he ranted a lot, but Joe had learned quickly that Levon wasn't really dangerous until he got quiet. Last night he'd been very quiet, and Joe suspected he'd been as close to losing control as he'd ever been.

He didn't want to think about what Levon's reaction might be if he found out that Harris hadn't just wanted him as a recruit for the Bureau, but had made numerous sexual advances as well. Some were subtle, just glances and insinuating comments. And some not so subtle, like Harris trying to corner him against a wall and feel him up.

Rejected on all fronts, Harris attempted to blackmail him directly by threatening to let his coworkers know he wasn't one hundred percent heterosexual. [I can still hear that son-of-a-bitch telling me that if I thought my back-up had been slow before, they would be non-existent once they knew I was bi-sexual. Cops didn't like having one of their own playing for both teams. Switch hitting is a major no-no.]

The sad part was that Harris was right. It was then that he'd resorted to wearing a wire. He simply couldn't win if he had to fight both the cops and the mob.

Joe reached up to finger the pendant Levon had given him. Lately, he found himself playing with it, like some kind of worry stone. It was comforting. His fingers traced out the design he'd come to know by heart. He shifted again, trying to get his mind back on whatever the speaker was saying. Levon glanced over at him, a faint smile playing about his lips.

"You got ants in your pants, LaFiamma?" His soft drawl was laced with humor.

"Almost wish I did. Anything to make this more interesting." Joe whispered back.

Levon chuckled softly. A moment later he did a jaw-popping yawn that had Joe yawning right along with him. [Never understood why yawning is contagious. Just one of life's little mysteries, I suppose.]

Levon rolled his shoulders, and slouched further into his chair. He handed his notebook and pencil to Joe. "Yer turn. I stayed awake yesterday."

Joe looked at the notebook, and took it with a sigh. He didn't like it, but it was only fair that Levon get to nap today since he'd slept through most of yesterday afternoon. Joe studied the page in front of him, hoping that something Levon had written there would give him an idea of what the hell the guy on stage had been talking about for the past half hour.

Sure enough, written across the top of the page was the title. Determining Jurisdictional Priority and Settling Disputes. One good thing about Levon's handwriting was that it was always legible. It never ceased to amaze him that his cowboy had textbook perfect penmanship.

Joe didn't really know why, but Levon favored unlined paper to write on. Looking at his handwriting you would never know the lines were missing. The elegant, cursive letters were so neat and crisp they reminded him of when he'd seen a handwritten copy of the U.S. Constitution as a child.

Joe shook his head ruefully. His own handwriting was nowhere as neat. Levon had commented once that when he'd first seen Joe's handwriting, he was sure Joe had been writing in some sort of hieroglyphic code. Levon had, out of necessity, learned to decipher Joe's handwriting. Although, for the most part, they both found it easier if Levon was the one who took notes or wrote down information at crime scenes.

Joe settled in to pay attention. After fifteen minutes he gave it up as a lost cause. [How can someone talk this long and not say anything?] Joe snorted in disgust. [There ought to be a law.] Joe couldn't understand how his lover had managed to pay attention as long as he had. He looked over at the quietly sleeping man next to him.

It wasn't often that there was time when he could simple study him. Always the early riser, Levon was usually up and gone before Joe awoke. During most days, well, the job kept them both busy and focused on things besides each other over 95% of the time. And after work, there were other distractions. Joe grinned thinking about those very pleasant distractions. But, that didn't leave a lot of time to really look at Levon when he was relaxed, or totally at ease. Joe decided this was an opportunity he shouldn't waste.

He let his eyes run the length of his partner's long, lean body. Even as cramped as their current seating arrangements were, Levon some how managed to position himself so that he didn't look uncomfortable. They were roughly the same height, but Joe felt like there was no way in hell that he would ever get comfortable, much less look like he was.

Joe studied Levon's profile. He took in the sharply defined cheekbones, and clean line of his jaw. Spending a lifetime in the harsh Texas sun had given his lover faint lines around his eyes. Not really so much a sign of age, but more as an indicator of the amount of time he'd spent squinting in the bright glare.

That same sun should have left his skin feeling rough and weathered, but it hadn't. Instead it was surprisingly smooth and soft, like satin. With a great deal of effort, Joe managed to keep himself from reaching out to touch, to caress.

Levon's expression was peaceful. There were no traces of the usual tension that he seemed to constantly wear when he was awake. Asleep, he looked younger. Joe felt like he was getting a glimpse of the child Levon used to be.

It had taken some doing, but Joe managed to convince him that since they were going to be inside all day he should leave his Stetson in the room. Without his ever- present hat, Levon's hair was a soft riot of unruly curls. [He looks like one of Botticelli's angels.] Joe knew exactly what kind of reaction he'd get if he ever said as much. [Just have to keep that thought to myself.]

With regret, Joe turned his attention away from his partner, and back to the business at hand. He tried, really tried, to focus once more on the speaker. Looking over what notes Levon had taken, the man wasn't really saying anything that Levon hadn't already written down.

Thinking now was as good a time as any to catch up on what he might have missed yesterday, Joe flipped back through the notebook intent on seeing if anything really important had been said. Levon had filled up several pages with notes, and in between those were several pages of... Joe stopped and stared. The pictures he saw could only be described as highly detailed, finely drawn sketches. [I didn't know he could draw.]

Curious, Joe turned to the beginning of the notebook, and began to carefully flip through the pages. Pages one and two were notes from the first speakers yesterday morning. He remembered both of those speakers as being interesting and entertaining. Page three was a brief sketch of the room they had been in. The layout and position of major features, like the stage, chairs, and doorways, were all there, but nothing else. It reminded Joe of the crime scene drawings he'd seen in some of the files at the precinct. Until now it hadn't occurred to him that Levon might have drawn those.

Pages four and five had more notes. Pages six and seven were more sketches. This time it was of the speaker they had heard right before lunch. Joe remembered her, not so much for her presentation, but for her looks. [A real beauty that one.]

The woman had reminded him of Levon's friend, Sully. She had moved with the same confidence and poise. The first sketch had evidently intended to be a full body, but was unfinished. Levon had clearly abandoned it in favor of focusing on her face. His sketch managed to capture the humor and grace the woman had so clearly displayed during her presentation. It was so well done that Joe almost expected her to wink at him any minute. [Cowboy has real talent.]

Pages eight and nine were more notes. Although, there was scrollwork down the margins making it seem as though the notes were hung in some ornate frame. Joe could make out what appeared to be some sort of Celtic design on one, and something that looked decidedly like interlocking roses on the other.

Another page of notes, and then... Joe breathed in deeply. The next sketch was of him or rather his profile. Apparently he wasn't the only one who liked to spend time observing his sleeping partner. Joe wasn't sure how, but the picture positively radiated love and affection. He had absolutely no doubt as to how Levon felt about him just by looking at it. [Wow!]

Joe flipped through several more pages, but those contained only notes, or more scrollwork. Then there was a series of blank pages. Joe was ready to flip back to the beginning when he decided to simply thumb through the rest of the notebook. He soon realized that Levon must have had this particular notebook for some time, because nearly half way through the book the sketches began again.

Some of them were only half done. Some were drawn with what looked like charcoal or with colored pencil. Almost all of them were an outdoor setting of some kind or another. Joe easily recognized those of Fooler, the ranch and their coworkers. Some of the others he couldn't place at all. The level of skill that was evident in each drawing, even those that were unfinished, was stunning.

Joe felt his eyes widen when the last few sketches were clearly the design on his pendant. There were several efforts that were obviously attempts at capturing the way a flame would dance. There were others that showed various ways of interlocking the "L's". The final oval shape was evidently not he only one he'd considered since there were several sketches done with the design in a circle, a rectangle, even a triangle.

[Levon said he sort of designed it, but I thought he meant he'd suggested what he wanted to his friend, I never thought this was what he meant.] Joe looked over at his sleeping lover. [Definitely going to have to ask about this little skill some day.]

Hearing sounds of the audience shifting, Joe looked toward the stage and noted that the speaker was finally finishing. He quickly flipped the notebook back to the page it had been on when Levon handed it to him. In what he knew would be an illegible scrawl, Joe quickly caught the final points as the speaker went over them.

He nudged Levon with his elbow. Brown eyes opened to look at him. If Joe didn't know him so well, he'd never be able to tell Levon had been sleeping. Somehow Levon always seemed able to open his eyes and look immediately alert. Joe knew first hand that he only looked wide-awake. It was a nice bluff that Joe wished on more than one occasion that he could do.

"You awake, cowboy?" Joe whispered.

Levon just looked at him for a moment. He blinked once, and then again. Joe would swear it was almost like seeing the lights come on. "Yeah. I'm awake." Levon straightened in his seat. "This one 'bout over?"

"Seems that way."

"Good. Ya think they'll give us a break soon? I could do with a cup of coffee."

Joe glanced down at the agenda they'd been given. "According to this, they are supposed to give us a few minutes after this one."

"Thank God."

As soon as the speaker left the stage, one of the organizers announced they would be allowed a fifteen-minute break. She also mentioned that coffee was still available in the lobby. Joe watched as several people looked decidedly grateful after hearing that. [Guess Levon isn't the only one in need of a pick-me-up.]

Levon got up and stretched. Joe couldn't help wincing when several vertebrae announced their presence. Despite knowing that they weren't an indication of anything being wrong, he absolutely hated hearing those little pops and crackles coming from his lover. Shaking his head, Joe stood as well. Together they exited the room.

"Lundy, get me a cup of coffee, will ya? I need to use the men's room."

"Sure. Two cream and one sugar, right?"

Joe nodded and headed down the hall while his partner made a beeline for the lobby. He couldn't help thinking it was funny that the two of them should work together so well, when they had next to nothing in common, not even the way they took their coffee. Levon usually had is black and strong enough to float a brick, while Joe liked his light and sweet.

The men's room was surprisingly empty so it didn't take long to take care of business. Joe was washing his hands when he heard the door open. He looked up in the mirror to see behind him. Two men in dark suits and glasses stood on either side of the doorway, and between them stood Special Agent Harris. [Damn. Knew that brain dead bastard wouldn't have enough sense to just let it go.]

Joe straightened; he took his time drying his hands, before turning to face the three men. He ignored the once over that Harris gave him. If he focused on how dirty that man's gaze made him feel he'd never be able to deal with this.

"You're looking good, Joseph. Texas must agree with you."

Joe shivered slightly, feeling his skin crawl at the tone Harris used. "What do you want, Harris?" Joe was proud of the fact that he didn't snarl, but kept his voice calm and level.

"Same thing I've always wanted. You." Harris paused to let the innuendo leave its mark. "I want you to work for me."

"I thought I made pretty clear yesterday that I wasn't interested." Joe could just make out bruises, showing above Harris' collar from yesterday's little talk.

"I thought you might need time to reconsider. '

Joe shook his head. "There will never be enough time for that."

Harris smiled slightly. "You're sure?"

"Very. I have a job."

"Maybe a change of scenery. I could arrange for you to get back to Chicago."

Joe snorted. "Uh-huh. Sure you could."

"I'm serious. All it would take is a phone call."

"Going back to Chicago just to destroy my family isn't really what I had in mind."

"Pity." Harris sounded genuinely regretful.

Joe watched him and his two muscle men carefully. [God. If I didn't know they were feds, they could have been working for Uncle Mikey. Definitely have the same look.]

"Well, then perhaps a little persuasion is in order."

Joe sneered, and nodded toward the two larger men flanking Harris. "Figured out you needed help to do that I see."

Harris smiled slightly and nodded his head, conceding Joe's point. "Let's just say our little chat yesterday proved to be very educational."

With that the two men flanking Harris moved forward. Joe felt his body dropping automatically into a defensive crouch. His weight shifted to the balls of his feet and his hands came up ready to attack or defend.

He dodged the first man's attempt to grab him with a simple twist. He reached out with his right hand and grabbed the man's extended arm at the wrist, using the man's own momentum to pull him forward. Joe's left hand struck out, catching the man in the throat. The man dropped to his knees, gagging, trying desperately to get his throat to work well enough for him to breathe.

The second man approached with more caution, before suddenly lunging at Joe, forcing him back against the wall. He pinned Joe there while rabbit punching him in the gut several times. Joe tried to block his punches. When that didn't work, he simply wrapped his arms around the other man and bracing himself against the wall, shoved his assailant back across the room to the opposite wall. Joe snapped his head back, then forward, so that his forehead impacted with his attacker's nose. Joe felt the nose break, and the corresponding spray of blood. When the man's hands came up to protect his nose, Joe dropped him with a well-placed kick to the groin, followed by a sharp blow to the temple.

Joe spun to face Harris in time to see him raise a gun. He watched Harris warily, waiting to see what his next move would be. Joe wasn't wearing his guns. He hadn't expected to need them in a hotel full of cops. [Let that be a lesson to you, Joey. Never go anywhere without your guns.]

"An impressive display of resistance, but it really was a futile effort at best. Now why don't you just stand still and let my friends here recover. Then we can continue this discussion."

"I should have strangled you yesterday and been done with it."

Harris smirked. "Hindsight is such a bitch." He sighed quietly, looking Joe over. "Believe me, I know. I've spent the better part of twenty years trying to bring down Michael LaFiamma. You were my best chance to do it when you joined the academy. Not a day goes by that I don't regret losing that opportunity."

Harris leered at Joe. "More than one opportunity missed then." Harris sighed quietly, and then chuckled. "My best shot at nailing a mob boss, and getting a really good lay... well, you really can't blame me for not wanting to give that up."

Joe just shook his head not wanting to debate that particular point. He looked over Harris' shoulder and noticed the door opening. Harris saw Joe looking past him, and Joe would bet money he heard the door open, but didn't turn to look or take his eyes off Joe.

Harris said calmly, "Johnson, I could have sworn I told you to guard the door until I said otherwise."

Joe couldn't help but grin when Levon stepped up behind Harris and placed a gun to the back of his head. "Johnson's a mite busy at the moment. Now I suggest you lower that gun, boy, otherwise I'm gonna have to redecorate the walls with what little brains you got. " Levon's voice was cold and hard. It was a tone that promised violence, and left no doubt that he really would kill him.

Harris cursed. He slowly lowered his gun, glaring daggers at Joe.

"Now drop it." When Harris didn't let go of the gun, Levon tapped lightly on the back of his head with the muzzle of his gun to emphasize just who was in control. "Drop. It."

Finally, Harris let the gun fall to the floor, and Levon kicked it away. "Good." Levon looked over at Joe, his expression concerned, brown eyes dark with worry. "You okay, partner?"

"I'm fine."

"You sure? Got blood on yer shirt."

Joe looked down. [Damn. Forgot about that.] "None of it's mine." Joe pointed with his chin to the agent on the floor still nursing his broken nose. "Its all his."

Joe went to each agent and frisked him. He took their guns, identification and cuffs. [Glad Frick and Frack were too stupid to think of drawing their guns first.]

Joe decided to keep their guns and put the cuffs to good use. He pulled their arms behind them, cuffed them and then shoved both of them together. Joe turned to look at Levon. His partner stepped back and pushed Harris over to join the other two.

Keeping his weapon trained on all three agents, Levon flashed a quick grin at Joe. "You know, Joe, they ain't gonna let us have recess if they find out you don't play well with others."

Joe grinned back at him. "Yeah, well, I run with scissors too, but we'll just keep that our little secret."

Levon was suddenly all business. "What do you want to do with them?"

"I suppose just shooting them is out of the question."

Levon shrugged, his expression neutral. "Not entirely."

Joe stared at him trying to decide if he was serious. Levon's face gave no indication that he wasn't seriously considering shooting three federal agents as a viable solution. Joe had to look close to see the glint of humor in Levon's eyes. It was faint, but it was there.

"What about the paperwork?" Joe finally asked.

"Oh yeah. There is that." Levon paused, cocked his head to one side studying the three agents. "Ya think we could write this off as a gang shootin'?"

"Doubtful. This is Dallas, not Houston. Jurisdictional disputes and all that." It was all Joe could do not to laugh at the expressions his recent assailants were wearing. The whole conversation was a little bit surreal, and if he didn't know his partner so well, he wouldn't know he wasn't serious. [At least I don't think he's serious.]

Levon nodded. "Ya got a point."

Harris sputtered in outrage. "You can't be serious."

Levon raised an eyebrow. Joe noticed that hard, deadly tone of voice was back in spades when he spoke to Harris. "Really? Why not? You harass my partner. You even go so far as to assault him not once, but twice in as many days. We frown on things like that here in Texas."

"But you don't even like him!!"

"Now where in the hell would you get an idea like that?"

"All the reports I've got indicate the two of you spend most of your time arguing. You're at each other's throats more often than not."

"You know, the more you talk, deeper I want ta dig yer hole." Levon's posture radiated menace, when he stepped forward to stand in front of Harris. "Just how long have you had someone keepin' an eye on me and Joe?"

Harris clenched his jaw and refused to speak. Levon studied him for a moment. "Don't really matter, cause you ain't gonna be doin' it anymore."

"Levon?" Joe asked softly. There was conviction in that statement, a sort of finality that was in no way lighthearted. Joe wasn't entirely sure what it was his lover had in mind. He wasn't convinced that outright murder would solve anything, but Joe braced himself, prepared to back whatever play Levon might have in mind.

"Don't worry, Joe. I got an idea."

"I'm all ears, Cowboy."

Levon tucked the gun he held into his belt. "Wait here a minute. Someone I need to talk to." With that he was out the door.

It was only a few minutes later that he returned with the largest black man that Joe had ever seen. [This guy would make Chicken look small.]

Between them, they were dragging another federal agent. Joe guessed that the unconscious man had to be Johnson.

"Joe, this is Daryl Carson. Daryl's a Texas Ranger here in Dallas. He's also a friend of mine from way back. Used ta play football together. "

[I don't doubt that for a minute. This guy is big enough to be the entire front line.] Still holding both guns he'd taken from Frick and Frack, Joe just nodded his head politely to the giant.

"Daryl, this is my partner and friend, Joe LaFiamma."

Daryl returned Joe's nod by way of acknowledgement. He looked over the four agents, and raised an eyebrow. He then looked pointedly at Levon. "These the fellers you said were giving your partner trouble?"

Joe was surprised when his voice was a light tenor instead of the bass he'd been expecting from such a large man.

"Yep. They're the ones. I just need ya to put 'em in on ice for... well, forty-eight hours ought ta do it."

"You are having me and my men arrested?" Harris demanded.

Levon grinned wolfishly at him. "Not exactly. Won't be readin' you yer rights, or filin' any charges. No messy paperwork that way."

The agent Joe had punched in the throat surprised them all when he asked hoarsely, "What do you plan to do with us after two days?"

Joe glanced at Levon. [Good question. I would kind of like an answer to that myself.]

"That depends on Sloan."

Harris' eyes narrowed. "Sloan?"

"Charles Sloan. You might know him. He's the Assistant Director for the FBI's Northeast region."

Harris swallowed hard. "You.... You know him?"

"He owes me a favor." Levon didn't elaborate any more than that. "Daryl, you got a spare cell you can dump them in?"

Daryl eyed the four agents again. "I think that can be arranged. Can even see about making sure they have some real nice playmates, if you catch my meaning."

Levon laughed. "Now that would be down right neighborly of you, Daryl."

"You already call Sloan?"

"Plan to just as soon as we're done here." Levon pulled the gun from his belt and handed it to Daryl. "This belongs to Johnson." Levon nodded toward the agent they'd dragged in who was beginning to show signs of coming around. "Joe's got the other guys' weapons." Levon walked over to where he'd kicked Harris' gun and picked it up. "This one belongs to the mouthy one in the middle, Agent Harris."

Daryl nodded. "On your way out, you can just hand those off to the Rangers waiting outside. We'll take it from here."

"Thanks. I owe you one."

The big man shook his head. "Way I figure it, we ain't even close to you owing me. By my count, I still owe you. Take care of yourself, Levon. You too, Joe. "

Joe headed out the door followed by his partner. He handed the guns off to one of the two men waiting outside. Levon nodded to each man, and said thanks before following Joe down the hall. Joe headed for the elevators. [Best to get out of this bloody shirt before anyone else notices anything.]

Fortunately, Joe and Levon were the only ones in sight. [Shouldn't really be surprised by that. How many hotels do a lot of business at three in the afternoon?]

Once in the elevator, Joe wrapped Levon in a tight hug. He'd wanted to do that since Levon had stepped through the rest room door. Levon returned the embrace with equal force. Both needed reassurance that the other was okay.

With some reluctance Joe pulled away and asked, "How'd you know to come look for me?"

"Was going for coffee when I noticed this bunch o' suits all headed down the hall. Men don't normally go to the john in groups. Took a closer look and saw Harris. Figured he might have some hard feelings 'bout yesterday. So I followed. Had to take care o' Johnson or I'd have been there sooner."

Joe caressed Levon's cheek. "You got there in time, and that is all that matters."

"Almost didn't."

Joe could easily make out the lingering fear in Levon's brown eyes. He pulled his partner into another hug, only letting go when the ping of the elevator indicated they had reached their floor. Joe kept his hand on Levon's shoulder, wanting to maintain physical contact as they made their way to the room.

Once inside the room, Levon stepped away from Joe. "Why don't you change shirts, while I make that call?"

Joe shook his head. "Not until you tell me just how you came to have an Assistant Director of the FBI in your pocket?"

"Ain't nothing sordid, Joe. Nothing illegal either. Sloan has a son... Rodney. We played football together in college."

"I am beginning to think the whole damn world plays football, except for me."

Levon smiled at him, and shrugged one shoulder. "What can I say? Ya meet a lot of people that way."

"Whatever." Joe made a 'go on' motion with his hands. "The rest of the story, if you would be so kind."

"Okay. It was like this.... 'Cause I was quarterback for the team, I sort of ended up looking out for most of the guys. Guess they were just used to following my lead on things. So, I always made sure that none of them got into too bad a jackpot or found a way to get them out if they did. And Rodney... well, he was the kind of guy who just seemed to naturally get into all kinds of trouble. Not a bad kid, just not the sharpest knife in the drawer."

Joe wasn't surprised to hear that Levon was looking out for his team. The man was loyal to his friends. The kind who always helped out when one was in need, no matter what. [Which explains why when Bobby was in trouble he came to you, even though you hadn't seen each other in years.]

"Rodney was the worst for getting into things that were over his head. If it was too much for me ta fix, then I made sure his old man knew enough about what was going on, so he could bail him out. More often than not, I'd end up calling his father, and I got to know Charles Sloan fairly well as a result."

"Is that the favor he owes you?"

"Not exactly. I don't really think any of that would be enough to get him to turn on one of his own. Harris is FBI after all, and they got their own solidarity, just like any other group of cops."

"So what does he owe you that's big enough to do the job?" [Come on, Cowboy. Out with it.]

Levon sighed. He walked over to the windows, and stared down at the busy street below. "Middle of our senior year, Rodney was diagnosed with Leukemia. Doctors knew for a while that something was wrong, but couldn't seem to come up with the right diagnosis. When they finally nailed down what was wrong... it was pretty far gone... the family got pretty desperate looking for a bone marrow donor. I managed to get most of the school to go be tested. Found two matches for Rodney that way. One of them was me."

"So this guy owes his son's life to you?" [That is one hell of a favor, Cowboy.]

"Basically... yeah. Never thought I'd ever try to make book on it. Don't seem right ta me asking a favor knowing the man can't really say no." Levon sighed again. "Didn't do it because I wanted some kind of payback later."

"Never thought you did." Joe said softly, and moved to stand behind his lover, wrapping his arms around him loosely. Levon leaned back and rested his head on Joe's shoulder. Joe couldn't help but think that his lover would never make it in the mob. [Just calling in a favor bothers the man. He'd never make it having to break someone's knees or ordering a hit. But then neither would I.]

"If it really bothers you... you don't have to make the call." Joe offered, not wanting Levon to do anything that went against his principles.

Levon reached up to squeeze one of Joe's hands. "Don't bother me half as much as the thought of Harris trying again. You are way more important than my pride. And the next time I might not be around to help."

Levon shuddered, and Joe held him tighter. He wasn't looking forward to another run in with Harris either. It bothered him more than he cared to think about that Harris had been keeping tabs on both of them. [Damn that man.]

Levon leaned further into Joe's embrace. "Short of burying Harris in a shallow grave out in the desert somewhere, Sloan is probably our best shot at getting him to back off. 'Sides, it ain't like he'd wouldn't be helpin' himself out at the same time. Harris is a loose cannon. Boy needs to be put down before the FBI gets another black eye to its reputation."

Joe smiled. "If you say so. Personally, I think the Bureau could do with more than just a black eye."

Levon chuckled, and straightened up, pulling out of Joe's hold. "You better go get cleaned up. And I got a call to make."

"What are you going to tell him?"

Levon shrugged. "That I need his help in dealing with a problem. And that problem is Special Agent Harris. The man has been harassing my partner. Has even gone so far as to commit assault and battery, possibly attempting to kidnap. And he has been keeping tabs on both of us, most likely since you moved to Houston four years ago. The man simply refuses to accept that you have no interest in joining the FBI or assisting them in any capacity. I think Harris is obsessed and should be considered dangerous. I also plan to let him know that Harris and his buddies are currently being held by the Texas Rangers, pending his decision. If he can't or wont handle it...." Levon's brown eyes met Joe's. "Then I guess we might have to dig that shallow grave after all."

Joe nodded, conveying both his understanding and willingness to follow Levon's lead. He headed toward the bathroom, giving his partner some privacy. Stripping out of his bloody shirt, Joe grimaced. [Damn. I liked this shirt.] He shoved it in the sink and soaked it in cold water, hoping it wouldn't stain.

Looking at himself in the mirror, Joe decided that just changing his clothes wouldn't be enough to erase the feel of Harris' eyes. [The hell with it. Didn't plan on going back for the rest of today's seminar anyway.] Joe turned on the shower and stripped. He removed the pendant last, making sure to place it where it would be within easy reach once he was finished.

Stepping into the shower, he let the hot spray of water wash away the dirty feeling. It eased left over tension from the brief confrontation as well. The few punches Frick had managed to land were starting to bruise. Not bad, just enough to remind Joe that he'd been hit. Joe wasn't sure how long he'd just been standing under the spray when Levon joined him.

Levon reached for the soap and began to slowly lather Joe's back. He gently massaged Joe's neck and shoulders making him moan softly. "Have I ever told you how much I love your hands?"

"Once or twice." Joe could hear the smile in Levon's reply.

"So what did Sloan have to say?"

"Said he'll take care of it." Levon continued to work his way down Joe's back.

Joe moaned again, and tried to focus. "What does that mean exactly?"

"Means he's going to send someone to pick up Harris and his buddies. Harris will be permanently relocated to DC, where he will be closely supervised, and spend the rest of his career working on the FBI budget in the basement of the Hoover building. Any and all authority he might have been able to claim has been rescinded. Meaning... he has also just gotten a major cut in pay."

Joe chuckled at that. [Good. Serves the bastard right.] His chuckle became a sigh as Levon worked his way back up to Joe's shoulders.

"He will also have to undergo psychological evaluation as a condition of his continued employment with the Bureau. His men will be scattered around the country. Seems Sloan knows of some openings that need filling. Their new supervisors will be told that they are problem children that bear watching. Anyone Harris has been in contact with regarding one Joseph LaFiamma or Levon Lundy will be notified that we are no longer of interest to the FBI. Any agent making contact or attempt to gather information will be risking his job by doing so."

"Sounds very thorough. Think it will work?" Joe leaned forward, bracing his arms against the wall, to give Levon better access to his lower back.

"Better. I'm fresh out of ideas if it don't." Levon lathered his hands again and wrapped his arms around Joe, letting them wonder over his chest in a gentle caress.

"Were you seriously considering killing him?" Joe asked. He really wanted to know if his partner had honestly thought murder was an option. [Not that I'd think any less of him for thinking about it. Hell, I've thought about it more than once.]

Levon's hands went still. "Don't know." He sighed and leaned into Joe. "When he had a gun pointed at you... yeah, I'd have killed him. When he was talking about you like you were just another piece of ass he wanted to fuck... yeah, I thought about doin' serious bodily harm."

Joe went perfectly still, surprised as much by what Levon said, as how he said it. The cowboy's language wasn't usually quite so coarse. "Didn't think you heard that." Joe said softly once he could speak.

"I heard." There was a brief pause, as though Levon was thinking through what he wanted to say. "Why didn't you tell me last night that he was interested in you for more than just your family?"

Joe sighed. "Saw how pissed you got just hearing what I did say." Joe shrugged one shoulder. "Wasn't sure how you'd take the rest."

"Ah. You thought I'd get all jealous and stupid."

"Something like that." Joe reluctantly admitted.

Levon snorted. "If I got jealous every time someone looked at you, I'd never have time to do anything else. Hell, Joe you are an incredibly handsome man. I have seen you turn heads everywhere you go. Don't bother me none that people look. Or that some of them would like to do more than just look."

Levon pulled away and Joe turned to face him. "I'd be lying if I said it wouldn't bother me if you wanted to fool around with some of them. But... that would be your choice."

Joe opened his mouth to protest that he wasn't interested in anyone else, but Levon simply placed his fingers over Joe's mouth. "I ain't saying that you would, or even that you want to. Just that it would be your choice."

Levon sighed softly. Joe could easily read the frustration in his expression. His lover occasionally had trouble expressing himself in words, so Joe tried to be patient and really listen, not just to the words, but also for what Levon was trying to say.

"Way Harris was talkin'... and actin', I sort of got the impression he didn't want to give you a choice in the matter. That ain't right. Everyone has the right to choose. Takin' away that choice is like... well, its like makin' that person less than you. That ain't the way to treat someone you care about."

Joe flashed back on all the times Levon had deliberately let him make decisions about their relationship. He had always thought it was just Levon's way of letting him have control. And in a way it was, but it was so much more than that. It was also his way of letting Joe know he wasn't being taken for granted, that he always had a say; that his wants, likes and dislikes mattered. Levon was trying to ensure their relationship remained as one of equals, that they were partners and friends as well as lovers. [How in the hell did I miss that??!!]

Joe kissed Levon's fingers before pulling them away from his mouth. "Have I told you I love you?"

Levon smiled warmly. "Not today."

Joe leaned into Levon, resting his forehead against his lovers, "I love you," he said clearly.

"And I love you." Levon leaned in to whisper in Joe's ear. "You heard enough of this story that we can move on to better things?"

Joe smiled, remembering saying those same words just yesterday. "Depends on what you've got in mind?"

Levon's hands slid lower to tease Joe's half-hard cock, and then around to cup his ass. "Oh, I think, probably the same thing you've got in mind."

Joe leaned in, hungry for a long passionate kiss. His hands began wondering over his partner's body over their own volition. He loved being able to touch Levon everywhere, especially when there was a time when he thought he'd never be able to. [Stupid to have wasted so much time. Should have just jumped his bones the day I met him.]

Levon gave a soft cry of protest when Joe broke the kiss. Joe reached up to cup his face. He found himself studying Levon's eyes. His pupils were so large that his beautiful brown eyes were almost black. Joe found himself wondering if his own eyes looked the same. [If they do, then I understand what Levon means when he says he likes mine best when they're black.]

Joe dipped his head to nuzzle the spot on Levon's neck that was guaranteed to make him purr. He let his hands roam over Levon's chest, stopping to gently caress his nipples. His efforts were rewarded with series of barely audible moans, and faint sighs.

Levon's hands caressed Joe's back, before dipping lower to lightly knead his ass. Joe was always mystified by how that touch could be arousing and relaxing at the same time. He found himself thrusting his hips slowly in time with the rhythm set by Levon's hands. He loved this languid sort of feeling, knowing it wouldn't last. All too soon it would give way to passionate urgency.

Levon angled his head so he could suck on the point where Joe's neck joined his shoulder. Joe gasped in pleasure, and leaned back. Levon bit gently, then licked away that momentary flash of pain. He worked his way up Joe's neck nipping and licking, leaving a trail of fire in his wake, until he finally reached Joe's mouth. He tongue plundered that warm, moist heat, moving in and out.

Joe reached up to run his fingers through Levon's hair, massaging as he went, and tilting his head for a better angle to deepen the kiss. [He always tastes so good.] When Levon moaned into his mouth, Joe was sure he could feel it all the way to his toes.

Levon pulled away, and nibbled his way along Joe's jaw. He stopped to linger on the spot right under his ear that forced Joe to lock his knees in order to remain standing. His breathing was getting ragged.

He lost that lazy, feel good sensation, and he felt like his cock just got hard as granite. "God... Levon... that feels... good... please"

"Please what?" Joe could hear that seductive smile, even if he couldn't see it. He never would have thought his partner was such a tease. Levon continued to suck on that spot, waiting for an answer.

Deciding that it would be easier to simply show him what he wanted than try to organize his words into anything that might resemble coherent sentences, Joe encircled Levon's shaft with one hand and began stroking slowly. Levon sighed, his warm breath ghosting across Joe's skin, raising goose bumps. Joe was surprised when Levon's hand circled his wrist halting his movement. Joe raised an eyebrow meeting Levon's eyes.

Suddenly shy, Levon dropped his eyes. "Want to come inside you, Joe." Some how he made that sound as both a statement of preference and a question at the same time.

[Some day I am going to figure out how he does that.] Joe smiled. "Sure, Cowboy. For you... anything."

He leaned into his lover, reveling in Levon's reaction to full body contact. Slowly turned away, maintaining that level of contact. His smile got wider as he felt Levon's breathing become increasingly ragged. With genuine regret, Joe stepped away, and rested his palms against the wall of the shower. He could feel the warm water running down over his back.

Levon leaned in against him, and nuzzled the back of his neck. "You are so beautiful." He whispered, letting his hands roam up and down Joe's chest. Joe's nipples weren't as sensitive as Levon's but he still loved the way it felt when Levon caressed them.

Those incredibly talented fingers traced Joe's muscles, following each contour. They moved down his chest, and abdomen and then around his ribs, and up his back. Caressing and massaging, he chuckled when Joe moaned softly. "Like that?"

"Yes."

"Good."

Finally, he felt Levon slip on soapy finger inside, while his partner's other hand, continued to travel up and down his chest. Joe wanted to touch his cock so badly, but was afraid he'd come too soon if he did. He felt a second finger, and couldn't stop himself from rocking back into it.

"Feels good... real good."

Levon inserted a third finger, and brushed Joe's prostrate. Joe felt like his whole body was throbbing. He could feel Levon's fingers stretching him out, and moaned softly.

"You okay, Joe?"

"Oh yeah... I'm good.... I'm ready.... Please, Cowboy... now... want you inside of me."

He felt Levon's fingers pull out to be replaced by his lovers thick, hard shaft. Levon eased himself into Joe. He waited for Joe to relax, for his breathing to even out, before moving. Levon leaned in to nibble on his earlobe. He whispered in that husky tone Joe found so appealing, "Touch yourself, Joe. I want you to come with me."

Joe reached down and began to fist his dick, matching his rhythm to Levon's. Levon's hands rested on his hips bracing himself while at the same time tracing tiny circles. Joe could feel the minute shudders coursing through Levon as his orgasm built. As one, they increased their speed. Levon was now regularly striking Joe's prostate. He knew he wasn't going to hold out much longer. With a shout he came, spraying his seed on the shower wall. He felt Levon come only a few seconds later.

Joe leaned against the wall trying to catch his breath. He felt Levon resting against him, lazily running soapy hands over his chest. Joe sighed, simply enjoying that calming, tender touch. [Love those hands.]

Even when Levon finally pulled away, he didn't stop touching Joe. He continued to lather his hands and thoroughly, yet gently clean his lover. Joe couldn't help but grin thinking how much he liked showering with Levon. Even when they didn't do anything more than simply wash each other, it was still something special. Joe returned the favor, making sure Levon was just as clean by the time they finally turned off the water.

Joe liked watching his lover towel off. Even though his movements were brisk and efficient, they were still graceful and fluid. Joe preferred to take his time, leisurely drying off, making the most of the opportunity to just watch. Levon deftly tied the towel around his waist, combed his hair back with careless fingers, smiled at Joe, and winked. Joe blushed knowing he'd been caught staring.

Levon headed out of the bathroom. He called over his shoulder, "We eating in again, or heading out?"

Joe thought about that. He pulled on one of the complementary robes the hotel supplied, and slipped the pendant back on. Joe leaned against the door jam, watching as Levon pulled on a pair of faded jeans. "What do you want to do?"

"Don't make no never mind to me. Meal was good last night...." The rest of whatever Levon had been saying was lost in a jaw-popping yawn.

Joe smiled. "Don't think either of us are really up for a night on the town, so in would probably be good."

Levon smiled back. "Think what you're in the mood for is on the menu?"

Joe couldn't resist letting his eyes run up and down his partner's lean frame. "Oh, yeah. I had the appetizer, just need to order the main course. We can have dessert later." Joe's smile grew wider when he noticed Levon's faint blush.

Levon handed the menu to Joe. He sat down on the bed, grabbed the phone, and leaned back against the headboard, waiting for Joe to decide what he wanted. Joe glanced through the menu eliminating anything Italian or Chinese knowing neither one would be up to his standards. He finally opted for a chef salad, and the chicken cordon bleu with ginger carrots. Levon ordered the veal cutlet and a baked potato.

Joe sighed and shook his head. [Never going to get him to eat something green. Although, I suppose this is at least somewhat healthier than most of the crap he usually eats.]

He joined Levon on the bed. Joe rested his head on his lover's bare shoulder. He relaxed completely when Levon raised a hand to casually run his fingers through Joe's hair. Joe sighed quietly, listening to the steady beat of Levon's heart.

Several minutes passed before Joe asked quietly, "Do you want to head home tomorrow when this is finished?"

He felt Levon shrug. "Way these things have been goin' I'm not sure I'd be up for a four hour drive back to Houston. Probably fall asleep at the wheel."

"Tomorrow is Friday." Joe offered.

He felt Levon tilt his head to rest against his. Joe knew his partner had followed his line of thought when Levon spoke. "I don't think Joanne would object to our taking our time getting back. Drove the Jimmy here so it ain't like we got a department vehicle that someone else might need. And we're supposed to have this weekend off anyway."

Joe considered that. "You know, Cowboy, I've been in Texas almost four years."

"Yeah, I know." Levon's tone clearly encouraged Joe to keep talking.

"And really, all I've seen of the state in all that time is Houston. I think we have an opportunity here to educate me on what this state might have to offer."

Levon chuckled. "So, you want to go play tourist on the way home.... That what yer saying?"

Joe tilted his head up to meet Levon's eyes. "Would be nice to salvage something fun out of this whole damn trip. You game?"

"Hell, Joe, I'd go anywhere with you." Levon kissed the tip of Joe's nose. "Be nice to just spend some time being us."

Joe laid his head against Levon's shoulder again. "Thanks, Cowboy."

"You're welcome, Joe."

The End.

Everything on this page is fiction. Any resemblance or reference to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.