Subject: Disclosures 1/6 From: P J Date: Mon, 8 Dec 2008 20:03:08 +0000 To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU X-Account-Key: account8 X-UIDL: 6d4460318845ce091ca1bcb08ba9487b X-Mozilla-Status: 0001 X-Mozilla-Status2: 00000000 Return-path: <> Envelope-to: stephke@IGLOU.COM Delivery-date: Mon, 08 Dec 2008 15:13:32 -0500 Received: from f05s16.cac.psu.edu ([128.118.141.59]) by mailmx.iglou.com with esmtp (Exim MTA/8.19.3) (envelope-from ) id 1L9mTz-0002mb-RW; Mon, 08 Dec 2008 15:13:32 -0500 Received: from tr12n08 (tr12g08.aset.psu.edu [146.186.16.58]) by f05s16.cac.psu.edu (8.13.8/8.12.11) with ESMTP id mB8B13ew158060; Mon, 8 Dec 2008 15:13:13 -0500 Message-ID: <200812082013.mB8B13ew158060@f05s16.cac.psu.edu> Reply-To: P J Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories Precedence: list X-Foreign-Sender: 128.118.141.59 X-UIDL: 6d4460318845ce091ca1bcb08ba9487b Title: Disclosures Fandom: Forever Knight Characters: Nick, Schanke, Natalie, Janette, Lacroix Rating: PG-13 Disclaimer: Forever Knight and its characters were created by Barney Cohen and James D. Parriott and are copyright to Sony/Tristar. None of the characters in this story belongs to me. I'm just borrowing them temporarily. No infringement intended. No profit is being made. Special thanks to Amy for beta reading and suggestions. Permission is granted to archive at the ftp site and fkfanfic site. Anyone else please ask me first. Comments are welcome at blue_Twingo772@yahoo.de. Timeline: Second season, after A›ƒ,ͺ"Blood MoneyA›ƒ,ͺA_ Disclosures (1/6) by PJ December 2008 Nick Knight studied the delicate pieces of jewellery, laid out on a velvet cloth in front of him. Picking up a ruby necklace, he held it against the lamp to assess the quality of the stones. A›ƒ,ͺ"Ah, an excellent taste,A›ƒ,ͺA_ the clerk commended his choice. A›ƒ,ͺ"You will find each stone flawless, sir.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nodding in agreement, Nick handed the necklace back to the clerk. A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll take it,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said and reached for his wallet. A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m sure the lady will be pleased,A›ƒ,ͺA_ the clerk remarked and placed the necklace into a pouch. Nick slid him a credit card and signed the receipt. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s been a pleasure doing business with you, Mr. De Brabant,A›ƒ,ͺA_ the clerk said and handed him the pouch. A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks for doing overtime because of me,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said and turned to go. A›ƒ,ͺ"Anytime,A›ƒ,ͺA_ the clerk replied and opened the door for him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Have a nice evening.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Having the pouch safely secured in his pocket, Nick jumped into the Caddy and drove from the curb. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Hi, Nat, what have you got?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Detective Schanke greeted the coroner as he entered an exclusive jewellery store on King Street. A›ƒ,ͺ"Hi, Schanke,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie replied and looked behind him, quizzically. A›ƒ,ͺ"WhereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s your partner?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Has the night off,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke supplied and surveyed the scene, noting the empty safe, shattered showcases and a body on the floor in front of the safe. Natalie tried not to look too surprised. Usually Nick asked her over for a video date after her shift when he had the night off. Turning her focus back to the task at hand, she began, A›ƒ,ͺ"Looks like a classic raid. The victim is Daniel Fouchard, the owner of this place. He was shot in the chest and died instantaneously. Time of death, I would estimate roughly about two hours ago.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What was he doing after hours in his shop?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked. A›ƒ,ͺ"Dunno. Inventory?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat suggested. A›ƒ,ͺ"Detective?A›ƒ,ͺA_ an officer called from the counter with the cash desk. A›ƒ,ͺ"He seems to have stayed for a late customer. HereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a receipt for a necklace, printed out at 8.30 p.m.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke whistled and reached for the slip of paper, his eyes bulging as he read the sum of the transaction. A›ƒ,ͺ"Man-oh-man, I wish I could once walk into a shop like this and buy something as fancy for Myra.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat looked up from her clipboard. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s not the amount that counts, Schanke, itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s the thought.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Yeah right,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he mumbled and copied the name on the receipt into his notebook. A›ƒ,ͺ"Well, whoever this N. de Brabant is, heA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s either a witness or a suspect.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie blanched as her clipboard slipped from her hands and crashed to the floor. A›ƒ,ͺ"You okay?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked, concerned. A›ƒ,ͺ"Yeah, IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m fine,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said quickly and retrieved her clipboard. A›ƒ,ͺ"Just clumsy.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Does the name sound familiar to you?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked suspiciously. A›ƒ,ͺ"No,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she snapped and proceeded to sign her preliminary report in order to keep from facing him. Schanke turned his attention back to the officers on the scene. A›ƒ,ͺ"Any security tapes we might use?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Already checked that. They shot the camera and took the tape with them.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Would have been too easy,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he mumbled. A›ƒ,ͺ"Okay folks, letA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s wrap up here...A›ƒ,ͺA_ * * * It was already past dawn when Natalie exited the morgue, her nerves tensed to the limit. She had tried to call Nick several times, but he had his phone turned off. As she pulled up at the loft, she gathered from the open shutters that he wasnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t home. Nevertheless, she made the trip upstairs, hoping not to be faced with a pile of ash on the floor. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she called as she stepped out of the elevator. Out of habit, she reached for the remote and closed the blinds. Hesitantly, she made her way upstairs to take a cautious peek into his bedroom. But the bed was untouched and everything neatly in place. A›ƒ,ͺ"Damn you, Nick, where are you?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she muttered. She returned to her car and drove aimlessly through the streets. With a sinking feeling she finally turned onto Duncan Road and stopped at the Raven, seeing the Caddy parked right in front of her. Trying to ignore the uneasiness in her belly, she climbed out of her car and tried the heavy iron door only to find it locked. She pounded against it, but there was no answer. Frustrated, she returned to her car and headed home. * * * An hour before sunset, Natalie was back at the club. This time she found the door unlocked. She entered hesitantly and stopped on top of the stairs to get accustomed to the dark. A›ƒ,ͺ"WeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re still closed,A›ƒ,ͺA_ a male voice with a thick Hungarian accent spoke from the bar. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s okay, Miklos,A›ƒ,ͺA_ a sultry female voice said. A›ƒ,ͺ"Dr. Lambert is a friend.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie turned her gaze to the door that led to JanetteA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s quarters and noticed a slender figure approaching the bar. She wore nothing but a robe and a sparkling ruby necklace around her neck. Even for someone who had obviously just risen from bed, Janette looked stunning, Natalie thought with a hint of envy. A›ƒ,ͺ"What can I do for you?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette inquired and reached behind the bar to retrieve a bottle and two glasses. A›ƒ,ͺ"I need to talk to Nick. ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s urgent,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie replied. Raising her eyebrows, Janette turned her attention to the direction of her quarters, obviously listening. A›ƒ,ͺ"HeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s --- He will be out in a minute,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she stated and filled the glasses from the bottle. As if on cue, Nick appeared from her quarters, freshly showered and fully dressed. He stopped in his tracks to the bar as he discovered Natalie, a guilty expression clouding his face. He approached the bar, accepting the glass from Janette who took her own and retired into her quarters. The hungry look on NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s face as his eyes followed her didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t escape NatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s notice. He quickly drained his glass and reached for the bottle to refill it. A›ƒ,ͺ"I ---A›ƒ,ͺ" he began. A›ƒ,ͺ"ThatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s not why IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m here,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat said quickly, staring at the red liquid in his glass. A›ƒ,ͺ"Were you shopping last night at A›ƒ,ͺEoChez FouchardA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick furrowed his brows. A›ƒ,ͺ"Yes, why?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he asked, confused. A›ƒ,ͺ"Then I guess youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re in a lot of trouble,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat said, unable to keep the coldness from her voice. A›ƒ,ͺ"Fouchard was killed last night, the shopA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s been raided. Police found a receipt in the register with your name on it. Your real name.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stared at her, shock evident on his face. A›ƒ,ͺ"I just thought IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›d warn you before you walk into the precinct unprepared,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat continued. A›ƒ,ͺ"Your partner is looking for an N. de Brabant to bring him in, either as witness or suspect.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Suspect?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick exclaimed upset. A›ƒ,ͺ"But Fouchard was fine when I left. I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t notice anything suspicious. Have you established a time of death yet?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Sometime between 8.30 and 10.30.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick nodded, frowning slightly. A›ƒ,ͺ"He would still be alive if he hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t stayed late for me. Or, if I had come later, I might have been able to stop the robbery...A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie recognized the guilty tone, but refrained from offering any form of support as she usually did. Instead she said, A›ƒ,ͺ"Well, I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t know how you want to get out of this one, Nick.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Then she turned on her heels and walked to the exit. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick called her back. Natalie slowed down and tuned back to him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks for the warning.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nodding, Nat slipped out of the door as the last rays of the sun vanished behind the horizon. On the way home she turned on the radio for distraction. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good evening, boys and girls,A›ƒ,ͺA_ the smooth voice of the Nightcrawler filled the interior of her car. A›ƒ,ͺ"What is the greatest pleasure of a father? To see his children joined in happiness. It was about time, donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t you think?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Letting out a sob, Natalie pulled over at the curb and brushed angrily at the tears that started to well up in her eyes. * * * Nick entered the bull-pen cautiously, his senses tuned to the various conversations going, in case his real name was mentioned. A›ƒ,ͺ"Yo, Nick!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke broke into his focus. A›ƒ,ͺ"Hi, Schank,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he returned the greeting. A›ƒ,ͺ"Did I miss anything?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"We got a new case. A raid on a jewellery shop, one body,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke informed him and began to fill him in on the details. A›ƒ,ͺ"Were there any security tapes?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick asked in anticipation.. A›ƒ,ͺ"No, the perp took them,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke exclaimed in desperation, missing the flash of relief on NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s face. A›ƒ,ͺ"What about the potential witness?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he asked. A›ƒ,ͺ"Suspect is more likely. I ran his name through the databank.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"And?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Nothing. Nada! The guy doesnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t exist, Nick. HeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s probably used a false name and phoney credit card.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Maybe heA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s just from out of town,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shrugged. A›ƒ,ͺ"Yeah, but why would a guy enter a shop after hours?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Sun allergy?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick offered. A›ƒ,ͺ"Very funny. I tell you Nick, that guy has dirt up his back.A›ƒ,ͺA_ They were interrupted by the CaptainA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s voice, A›ƒ,ͺ"Knight, Schanke, in my office.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Any leads yet?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Cohen inquired after Schanke had taken a seat, while Nick remained standing with his back against the door. A›ƒ,ͺ"Dayshift interviewed the staff,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke replied. A›ƒ,ͺ"Three of them left when the store closed. They didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t notice anything suspicious, nor did they know about FouchardA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s appointment after hours. One employee had the day off and another is currently on vacation at Lake Louise. We couldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t identify the guy who bought the necklace yet.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Have you spoken to Mrs. Fouchard?A›ƒ,ͺA_ the Captain demanded. A›ƒ,ͺ"ThatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s what we wanted to do next.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Ask her if she has any photos of the necklace that was bought. Otherwise, check with the insurance company. Maybe we can find the person who was to receive it when we put it in the paper.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shifted uncomfortably, but remained silent. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Cozy,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke remarked as he rang the bell of the mansion.. The door was opened by a young woman who stared at them with a slightly shocked expression on her face. A›ƒ,ͺ"Mrs. Fouchard?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke inquired, showing his badge. A›ƒ,ͺ"I --- IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m her sister-in-law,A›ƒ,ͺA_ the woman replied. A›ƒ,ͺ"Elise is in the parlour.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nodding, Nick and Schanke followed her into an elegant room. A›ƒ,ͺ"The police want to speak to you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ the woman addressed an elegant lady who rose to greet them. A›ƒ,ͺ"Mrs. Fouchard? IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m Detective Schanke and this is Detective Knight,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke introduced them. A›ƒ,ͺ"Please, do sit down,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she invited them. A›ƒ,ͺ"Francoise, be so kind and bring some tea for the gentlemen.A›ƒ,ͺA_ After Francoise had vanished, Mrs. Fouchard continued, A›ƒ,ͺ"SheA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s the wife of DanielA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s younger brother. IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m so grateful for her support.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"WeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re sorry to disturb you at this time, but we need to know if thereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s anything you could tell us that might lead us to your husbandA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s killer,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke stated their errand. A›ƒ,ͺ"My husband called last night to inform me that he would be late for dinner because he was expecting a late customer,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Mrs. Fouchard stated in a collected manner. A›ƒ,ͺ"Did he say anything else? A description maybe?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"No,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she shook her head. A›ƒ,ͺ"When he didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t return by ten, I grew concerned and called security to check on the store.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Are there any photos available of the necklace and the other items that were stolen?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Mrs. Fouchard walked over to a desk and pulled a calling card from a folder.. A›ƒ,ͺ"This is the insurance company. They have photos of every item on file.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke thanked her and rose to leave. A›ƒ,ͺ"Is your brother-in-law in the same business? We might also have a word with him.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Oh, Robert is currently on the west coast,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Mrs. Fouchard explained. A›ƒ,ͺ"HeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s doing the acquisition for the store and travels most of his time. We expect him back for the funeral, though.A›ƒ,ͺA_ * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Man-oh-man, IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m beat,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke muttered on the way back to the precinct. A›ƒ,ͺ"At least now we have a lead.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What lead?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick asked, casting him a sideways glance. A›ƒ,ͺ"We should check FouchardA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s phone log. The guy probably called ahead to arrange the appointment,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke stated the obvious and glanced with annoyance at his partner. A›ƒ,ͺ"What is it with you lately?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick snapped. A›ƒ,ͺ"You seem so absent lately. I had to do all the talking back in there. ThatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s not your style.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"You know what, Schanke? YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re right. I did let you do all the work so far. Let me handle the call to the phone company. They can send the log directly to my computer and you can book off early.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"You would do that for me?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked, delighted. A›ƒ,ͺ"Sure,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shrugged. * * * After dropping Schanke off, Nick requested the log of FouchardA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s incoming calls to be sent to his computer. His own number stood out to him like a shining beacon. He erased the line and printed the log out, putting it in his in-box. Then he picked up his jacket and left for the morgue. * * * Natalie sat at her desk and looked up as she heard a shuffling noise at the door and saw Nick entering hesitantly. She knew he made a deliberate noise so as not to startle her, as if he tried not to make a bad situation worse.. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he asked probingly. A›ƒ,ͺ"HowA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s your case going?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she asked, before he could broach another subject. A›ƒ,ͺ"So far IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve been busy with damage control,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he replied sheepishly. A›ƒ,ͺ"But you also work on finding the killer?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said coldly. A›ƒ,ͺ"Or are you no longer interested in your job?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Of course!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick assured her. He still felt that what happened to Fouchard was his fault. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat, itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s not what ---A›ƒ,ͺ" Natalie raised her hands. A›ƒ,ͺ"Please, Nick. I have no claim on your private life. You donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t have to justify to me where you spend your nights off, but would you mind telling me why you used your real name?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick looked at her, slightly distressed. He hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t meant for her to find out about his recently rekindled relationship with Janette. He was still unaccustomed to it, himself, and he wasnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t sure how long it would last. But he hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t felt this satisfied in years and that did wonders for his control around mortals. It had all started after he had solved the case of Charles DuChampA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s murder. He had spent the day at the Raven and Janette had offered graciously to ease his burdens. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat roused him from his reverie. A›ƒ,ͺ"Sorry, my mind was wandering,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he apologized. A›ƒ,ͺ"People would think me corrupt if I spent more than a yearA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s salary on a piece of jewellery.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"So you just pull out one of your other credit cards and all is well? Have you ever thought what might happen if people figured out who you are?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat snapped. A›ƒ,ͺ"I never had any problems until now,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said, causing Natalie to wonder how often he did use his other credit card. Seeing her doubtful look, he added, A›ƒ,ͺ"DonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t worry, Nat. It will work out fine.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Oh yeah?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she remarked. A›ƒ,ͺ"Are you planning on hypnotizing everyone who finds out?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick straightened, refusing to take the bait. He knew she hated it when he resorted to his abilities. A›ƒ,ͺ"If I have to,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said and gazed at the clock. A›ƒ,ͺ"SunA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s coming up. I should go.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat stared after him as he left, feeling a slight chill creeping up her back. * * * to be continued in part 2 * * * PJ blue_Twingo772@yahoo.de Subject: Disclosures 2/6 From: P J Date: Tue, 9 Dec 2008 23:30:14 +0000 To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU X-Account-Key: account8 X-UIDL: 229be3d9fb311f33aa09ab4d3c83e9db X-Mozilla-Status: 0000 X-Mozilla-Status2: 00000000 Return-path: <> Envelope-to: stephke@IGLOU.COM Delivery-date: Tue, 09 Dec 2008 18:30:29 -0500 Received: from f05s16.cac.psu.edu ([128.118.141.59]) by mailmx.iglou.com with esmtp (Exim MTA/8.19.3) (envelope-from ) id 1LAC28-000193-ON; Tue, 09 Dec 2008 18:30:29 -0500 Received: from tr12n08 (tr12g08.aset.psu.edu [146.186.16.58]) by f05s16.cac.psu.edu (8.13.8/8.12.11) with ESMTP id mB9LZgJA039460; Tue, 9 Dec 2008 18:30:16 -0500 Message-ID: <200812092330.mB9LZgJA039460@f05s16.cac.psu.edu> Reply-To: blue_twingo772@yahoo.de Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories Precedence: list X-Foreign-Sender: 128.118.141.59 X-UIDL: 229be3d9fb311f33aa09ab4d3c83e9db Continued from part 1 Disclaimer in part 1 Disclosures (2/6) by PJ December 2008 A›ƒ,ͺ"WhatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s wrong, chAŸAcri?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette asked, licking languidly over the bite marks on NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s neck. "IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve made quite a mess,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick replied with a frown. A›ƒ,ͺ"Oh Nicolas, why must you always have regrets?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette purred. A›ƒ,ͺ"I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he assured her, kissing her wrist reassuringly. A›ƒ,ͺ"At least not about us. But I never meant to hurt Nat. And I guess I have.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Mon chAŸAcr, you are 800 years old. You must have picked up some knowledge of how to ease a womanA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s sorrow.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"It wouldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t be fair,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he replied with an innocent expression on his face. Janette let out a sigh before replying, A›ƒ,ͺ"Ecoute, Nicolas. SheA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a sensible woman. She knows what you are and that she cannot be with you the way she might want.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick remained silent a moment, then he said, A›ƒ,ͺ"I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t think she knows that.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette gave him a surprised look. A›ƒ,ͺ"You havenA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t told her?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I havenA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t told her everything,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick admitted with a hint of embarrassment. A›ƒ,ͺ"Maybe you should,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette suggested. A›ƒ,ͺ"A woman does not like to be kept in the dark, trust me.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick bit playfully into JanetteA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s wrist and said in a rough voice, A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll think about it.A›ƒ,ͺA_ * * * It was after sunrise when Nat opened the door to her apartment. She hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t seen Nick all night and wondered if he were avoiding her. As she set her bag aside, she stopped in her tracks. Something seemed different than usual. Normally she was greeted by a hungry impatient cat when she returned this late. A›ƒ,ͺ"Sydney?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she asked tentatively and made her way towards the dark living-room. As she peeked inside, a light was switched on and she noticed Nick, sitting in her armchair. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick!A›ƒ,ͺA_ she exclaimed, slightly startled. A›ƒ,ͺ"Hi,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he greeted her. A›ƒ,ͺ"I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t mean to startle you.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"So you sit here in the dark?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat shot back, feeling that her privacy had been imposed on. A›ƒ,ͺ"Sorry for intruding like this. I had wanted to talk to you. I waited in the Caddy, but when the sun came up, it was either here or the trunk.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat stared at him, trying to come to terms with the idea of having an unexpected house guest for the day. With a feeling of dread she concluded, A›ƒ,ͺ"You are leaving.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"No,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick emphasized, jumping from his seat. A›ƒ,ͺ"Why would you think that?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Well, considering the mess youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve made,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat said, avoiding his gaze. A›ƒ,ͺ"And thereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s probably nothing that holds you here.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Yes, there is,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick objected, looking at her intensely. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat, do you have any idea how much you mean to me?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat crossed her arms before her chest and looked at him defiantly. A›ƒ,ͺ"Frankly, I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t know what to think any more, Nick.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Her breath caught as Nick took her face between his hands and kissed her tenderly on the lips. A›ƒ,ͺ"I do care about you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he stated. A›ƒ,ͺ"A lot. And thatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s why we canA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t be together.A›ƒ,ͺA_ NatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s eyes shot open as his words pulled her brutally back to reality. A›ƒ,ͺ"I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t understand,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said, refusing to accept his statement. Nick circled her until he came to stand behind her. She felt his breath on her neck as he said, A›ƒ,ͺ"You deserve so much more than what I can offer, Natalie.A›ƒ,ͺA_ She tensed as his voice turned rougher and he continued to whisper into her ear, A›ƒ,ͺ"I long to give you pleasure beyond your wildest imagination, but it would come with a price that youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re not willing to pay.A›ƒ,ͺA_ She gasped as she felt his teeth grazing her neck. It was the most sensual thing she had ever experienced. With effort she stepped forward out of his reach and whirled around. Her heart skipped a beat as she noticed the feral expression on his face. A moment later his features softened and his eyes returned to blue. He retreated to his seat on the couch and regarded her probingly. Nat tried to calm the rapid beating of her heart, quite aware that he was able to hear it. A›ƒ,ͺ"I --- IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m sure with some restraint and if we go slowly...,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she began. But Nick shook his head, a sad expression on his face. A›ƒ,ͺ"No, Nat. Trust me, it is not possible.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"But you wonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t tell me why,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat said. A›ƒ,ͺ"IsnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t that obvious?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shot back. A›ƒ,ͺ"I would kill you!A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m not ready to believe that,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat said determined. A›ƒ,ͺ"You have no idea what youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re asking for, Nat.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I think I have. And IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m upset that youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re not even willing to try.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"There is no try,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated. A›ƒ,ͺ"Not in this case.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Fine. How very convenient for you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat snapped and fled into her bedroom, locking the door behind her. * * * When Nat ventured out of her room in the evening, Nick had already left. Her anger at his lack of confidence had dissipated and given way to worry that he might leave after all. Knowing that this was his night off, she drove over to his place. But as she turned onto Gateway, she saw the Caddy passing an intersection. She followed on impulse and wasnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t surprised as Nick steered towards the Raven. She followed at a distance, looking for a suitable place to turn. Nick parked at the curb and got out. But instead of going into the club, he walked around his car and opened the passenger door. A moment later Janette glided out of the club, dressed in a stylish gown. Only now did Nat notice that Nick was dressed equally elegantly. Intrigued she watched as he kissed JanetteA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s hand and closed the car door after she had sat down. Nat followed curiously as Nick started the engine and pulled from the curb. After a short drive he turned into the parking lot of the Shore Club. Natalie did so as well and waited until they had vanished through the entrance gate. She heard dance music coming from the deck. Hesitantly she got out of her car and walked over to the adjoining pier that offered a view towards the Shore Club. After screening the crowd she saw them, fused together in a slow dance. With considerable envy she observed them admiringly, as they moved in sync to the music, completely absorbed into each other. A›ƒ,ͺ"A beautiful night, isnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t it?A›ƒ,ͺA_ a smooth voice interrupted her observation. Natalie looked up startled, unaware that someone else had been on the pier. Her heart began to race as a tall figure stepped out of the shadows. She recognized him immediately. Lacroix joined her at the railing and gazed across the harbour bay towards the Shore Club. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a night for romance, donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t you think?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he continued. A›ƒ,ͺ"Perhaps you would like to dance as well?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie stared at him as he held out his hand. A›ƒ,ͺ"No, thank you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she declined. Lacroix curved his lips into a smile. A›ƒ,ͺ"Perhaps youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›d rather be in NicholasA›ƒ,ͺƒ,› arms. I believe the position is currently taken. Tell me, Natalie, how does it feel to see him succomb to his nature?A›ƒ,ͺA_ She looked at him in confusion. A›ƒ,ͺ"What do you mean?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Nicholas has needs,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix explained, gazing towards the Shore Club. A›ƒ,ͺ"Needs that you cannot fulfill...A›ƒ,ͺA_ Turning back to her, he added with a chuckle, A›ƒ,ͺ"at least not in your current condition.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie shot him an annoyed glare. A›ƒ,ͺ"How do you want to know what I can do and what I cannot?A›ƒ,ͺA_ He raised his eyebrow in amusement. A›ƒ,ͺ"I believe thatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s obvious.A›ƒ,ͺA_ When Natalie remained silent, he added, A›ƒ,ͺ"or perhaps not. Perhaps Nicholas has not been as forthcoming regarding certain information as I had believed.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie stared at him intrigued, curious to hear more, yet acutely aware of the danger she placed herself in if she remained any longer in the company of this man. A›ƒ,ͺ"Would you care for a little enlightment?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix purred in a tempting voice. A›ƒ,ͺ"I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t think I require that,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat stammered. A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m not stupid. IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m a scientist.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Of course,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix remarked amused. A›ƒ,ͺ"Tell me, Doctor, do you tend to bite your partner at the height of passion?A›ƒ,ͺA_ NatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s eyes widened. A›ƒ,ͺ"I already told Nick that with a little restraint this can be avoided,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she stated. Lacroix broke out into a chuckle. A›ƒ,ͺ"What?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat asked, annoyed. A›ƒ,ͺ"Your naivety is truly refreshing.A›ƒ,ͺA_ How dared he call her naive, she fumed. A›ƒ,ͺ"I would gladly give you a demonstration to broaden your horizon,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he added much to NatalieA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s shock. A›ƒ,ͺ"No, thank you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she declined, suppressing a shiver. A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m late for work.A›ƒ,ͺA_ She turned to walk back to her car and noticed with increasing discomfort that he was following her. As she reached her car and hastily opened the door, he placed his hand on hers. A›ƒ,ͺ"It was a pleasure meeting you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he breathed. A›ƒ,ͺ"If you have questions, you know where to find me.A›ƒ,ͺA_ She nodded and sat down behind the wheel, pulling the door shut instantly. Without looking back, she drove towards the morgue, relaxing only when she reached the familiar surroundings of her office. Luckily, her workload was such that she was sufficiently distracted from her recent encounter. * * * When she returned to her apartment after sunrise, an odd feeling of dAŸAcja vu overcame her. Instead of sunlight her living-room was lit by the lamp beside her armchair.. Were NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s visits becoming a habit, she wondered. At least he didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t wait for her in the dark as on his last visit. She stepped into the room and froze as she perceived Lacroix reclining in her armchair, legs crossed, while Sydney purred comfortably in his lap. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good morning,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he breathed. A›ƒ,ͺ"What are you doing here?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie demanded. A›ƒ,ͺ"You seemed in such a hurry this evening. I thought you might want to continue our conversation without the pressure of your workload on your schedule. We have all day.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie stared at him. A›ƒ,ͺ"You do not really expect me to spend the day here with you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said in disbelief. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s after sunrise. It would be extremely impolite to throw me out, donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t you think?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"You should have considered that before you intruded here,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat returned. A›ƒ,ͺ"I would hardly call a friendly visit an intrusion. Is it my fault that you arrive after dawn?A›ƒ,ͺA_ First Nick and now this, Nat thought, annoyed. She was too tired to deal with him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Fine, stay if you must,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she relented. A›ƒ,ͺ"I wonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Turning on her heels, she stormed from her apartment out into the bright morning sun. A›ƒ,ͺEoGreatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›, she thought. Where to now? Grace would probably not mind having her stay the day, but how should she explain why she couldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t return to her apartment before sunset? Reluctantly she drove to NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s loft. With any luck, he would spend the day at the Raven again. Her spirits rose, as she didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t see the Caddy parked out in the front. She punched in the security code and took the elevator upstairs. However, as she pulled the heavy door aside, she realized her error. Soft piano music sounded from the stereo and the loft was lit by several candles, casting a warm glow on the couple that swayed slowly to the music. NatalieA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s heart began to race as she noticed that Nick had his mouth poised at JanetteA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s shoulder, who was obviously not bothered by the two lines of blood that ran down her skin. She covered her mouth with her hand and was about to stumble backwards into the elevator, when Nick raised his head and fixed her with an amber stare. Janette turned in his arms and regarded her curiously. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he asked, sounding oddly hoarse around his fangs. A›ƒ,ͺ"Oh, sorry, I thought you werenA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t home,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat stammered. A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m just leaving.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat, wait,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he called her back and she watched in fascination as his fangs retracted and his eyes changed to blue. A›ƒ,ͺ"WhatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s wrong?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Lacroix is at my apartment,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she blurted. A›ƒ,ͺ"What?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he gasped. A›ƒ,ͺ"I came home late and found him in the living-room. He refused to leave since the sun was up.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What did he want?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick demanded. A›ƒ,ͺ"I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t wait to find out,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat shrugged, deciding not to mention her previous encounter with him at the pier. A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m sorry for intruding like that, but I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t know where else to go.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s all right, Natalie,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette said softly and moved towards the stairs, climbing them gracefully. Natalie noticed that the bite on her shoulder had already healed and she wondered what had prompted Nick to bite her. A›ƒ,ͺ"YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re welcome to stay here,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said and retrieved a comforter from a drawer. A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat said and moved towards the couch. A›ƒ,ͺ"I feel awful. I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t want to disturb anything,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she apologized. A›ƒ,ͺ"You didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said, which didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t sound very convincing to NatalieA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s ears. A›ƒ,ͺ"Did I see right that you bit her? Would you mind telling me why? Have you run out of food?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie asked, unable to suppress her curiosity. Nick tensed imperceptibly. A›ƒ,ͺ"I do mind,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he replied and turned towards the stairs. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good night,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he added before vanishing into his bedroom. Nat stared at the closed door, feeling like an outcast. Wrapping the comforter around her, she stretched out on the couch and strained her ears. But the loft remained in eerie silence. Finally she relaxed and drifted into sleep. * * * Nat woke from a low murmured conversation that was going on in front of the lift. It sounded like French, but she couldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t make out the words. As she sat up on the couch, she saw Janette disappearing into the lift, after giving Nick a lingering kiss on the lips. A›ƒ,ͺ"Is it dark?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she asked, feeling slightly groggy after the lift had begun its descend. Nick nodded and walked towards her with a steaming mug of coffee in his hand. A›ƒ,ͺ"Did you sleep well?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he inquired. A›ƒ,ͺ"Yes, I must have been completely exhausted. Sorry again for dropping in like this,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said and accepted the mug from him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Do you think heA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll be gone by now?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll come with you to make sure,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said, making a mental point to have a discussion with his master. After Nat had finished her coffee, they took her car to drive back to her apartment. A›ƒ,ͺ"HeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s gone,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said before Natalie had even opened the door. Nat shot him a curious look and stepped into her apartment. A›ƒ,ͺ"Sydney?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she called tentatively and found her cat curled up in the armchair that Lacroix had occupied earlier. She picked him up and hugged him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Poor Sydney, did you have to spend the day in such unpleasant company?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll talk to Lacroix and make sure he doesnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t bother you again,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said and turned to go. A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks, Nick,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat said gratefully and closed the door behind him. She went into her bedroom to change for work and stopped dead in her tracks, staring at her bed. Although nothing was in disarray, the linens were arranged differently than she used to leave them. A›ƒ,ͺ"He wouldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t....,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she exclaimed. Bending down, she sniffed at her pillow. A definitely masculine scent emanated from it. A›ƒ,ͺ"How could he!A›ƒ,ͺA_ she exclaimed upset and stripped the pillow and linens from their covers, dumping everything into her washer. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Good evening, Nicholas. IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve been expecting you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix greeted his son as Nick entered the sound booth. A›ƒ,ͺ"The fact that I spend time with Janette does not mean that Natalie is free game!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated, coming directly to the point. Lacroix regarded him amused over tented fingers. A›ƒ,ͺ"Are you sure that you wish to satisfy both ladies? Dr. Lambert seems terribly neglected in that regard.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I want you to stop bothering her,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick declared, ignoring his remark. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s bad enough that she found out about Janette. She does not need you to make things worse.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Are you so familiar with her needs? I got the impression that you left her rather in the dark about certain topics.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I told her all she needed to know,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated petulantly.. A›ƒ,ͺ"Do I have your word that you will stop bothering her?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix gazed at him over steepled fingers. A›ƒ,ͺ"And what exactly does your definition of bothering include?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he inquired. A›ƒ,ͺ"You will stop pursuing her or dropping by her apartment,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick clarified. Lacroix regarded him a moment longer as if expecting more. A›ƒ,ͺ"Very well,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he conceded. A›ƒ,ͺ"You have my word that I wonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t drop by her apartment or pursue her.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick nodded, pleased with the victory he had achieved. As he turned to go, he missed the amused expression that flashed over LacroixA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s face. After Nick had left the sound booth, Lacroix switched on the mike. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good evening, boys and girls. The Nightcrawler is on the air, offering answers to questions you dare not ask your father, your mother, or your closest friend. Perhaps youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re not even aware of the delicate nature of your queries. Yet your scientific mind craves the knowledge, unaware of the sensitivity of the subject. This is the age of enlightment, mes amis. So come to me and let the Nightcrawler satisfy your curiosity...A›ƒ,ͺA_ * * * Natalie sat in her lab, staring at the radio. What an odd coincidence. Certainly he wasnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t talking to her. She knew he used to talk to Nick in his broadcasts. Why should he change his preference all of a sudden? And yet, the offer was tempting, especially after NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s refusal to dwell on the subject any longer. * * * to be continued in part 3 * * * PJ blue_Twingo772@yahoo.de Subject: Disclosures 3/6 From: P J Date: Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:26:21 +0000 To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU X-Account-Key: account8 X-UIDL: 186dee535b1b3312d74721193ebe7b89 X-Mozilla-Status: 0000 X-Mozilla-Status2: 00000000 Return-path: <> Envelope-to: stephke@IGLOU.COM Delivery-date: Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:26:44 -0500 Received: from f05s16.cac.psu.edu ([128.118.141.59]) by mailmx.iglou.com with esmtp (Exim MTA/8.19.3) (envelope-from ) id 1LAUhn-0001g2-KI; Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:26:43 -0500 Received: from tr12n08 (tr12g08.aset.psu.edu [146.186.16.58]) by f05s16.cac.psu.edu (8.13.8/8.12.11) with ESMTP id mBAB4nsH142328; Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:26:26 -0500 Message-ID: <200812101926.mBAB4nsH142328@f05s16.cac.psu.edu> Reply-To: blue_twingo772@yahoo.de Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories Precedence: list X-Foreign-Sender: 128.118.141.59 X-UIDL: 186dee535b1b3312d74721193ebe7b89 Continued from part 2 Disclaimer in part 1 Disclosures (3/6) by PJ December 2008 When Nick returned to the precinct, he found an envelope, adressed to him, on his desk. He opened it and stared in shock at a couple of photographs showing him in the jewellery store with the ruby necklace in his hands. Whoever had taken the tapes, recognized him and made screenshots from the material. Among the photos he found a note: A›ƒ,ͺ"We suggest a deal, Detective. The necklace in return for our secrecy. You will leave your car with the top down and the necklace on the passenger seat in the centre of the West End Mall car park Sunday at 10 a.m. Should you ignore our instructions, we will inform the media that youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re not what you appear to be.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick? WhatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s the matter?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked. NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s head shot up and he quickly shoved the photos back into the envelope. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nothing,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he quipped. A›ƒ,ͺ"What have you got there?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke inquired, nodding at the envelope. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nothing, just a report that came back, Nick said evasively, hiding the envelope in his pocket. Schanke regarded him suspiciously. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick, when was the last time you wrote a report? If I recall, I wrote them all during the last couple of weeks, while you booked off early. Nick looked at him guiltily. In his zeal to meet with Janette, he had always been eager to depart. A›ƒ,ͺ"I promise to do better, Schanke,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said. A›ƒ,ͺ"Fine. Then you can start by signing these,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke beamed and shoved a pile of folders over to NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s desk. A›ƒ,ͺ"What are these?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick asked nonplussed. A›ƒ,ͺ"The reports I wrote last night while you enjoyed your time off,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke stated. Nick grimaced and picked up his pen. He opened the first folder, scanned the contents and set his name next to SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s on the bottom line. A›ƒ,ͺ"Satisfied?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he asked half an hour later and shoved the pile back to his partner. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good boy,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke replied and looked up startled as Nick reached for his coat. A›ƒ,ͺ"Where are you going?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"ThereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s something I need to check out,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said and was gone before Schanke could object. Shaking his head, he retrieved his stamp and opened the first folder to stamp the date beside their signatures. Something in NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s signature made him stop. He had signed A›ƒ,ͺEoN. KnightA›ƒ,ͺƒ,› as usual. He had seen it often enough. But now something struck him as oddly familiar. He opened the folder from their recent case and pulled out the evidence bag that contained the receipt they had found in the jewellerA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s cash desk. Although the name was different, the handwriting looked suspiciously similar. The first inital was almost an exact match as was the style of the last letter A›ƒ,ͺEotA›ƒ,ͺƒ,› in Knight and Brabant. Both signatures featured the same fluent script Schanke had always found a bit too elegant for a cop. What the hell was going on here, he wondered. Was Nick somehow involved in the case? His odd behaviour suggested it. Schanke leafed through the folder until he found the printed telephone log. Studying it, he didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t find a familiar number. Then he recalled how eager Nick had been to handle the call to the phone company. Compared with his recent lack of activity concerning such trivialities, it struck him as odd that he had insisted on making the call. He picked up his receiver and called the phone company himself, requesting another copy of the phone log. A few minutes later, he had a second copy in front of him and compared the numbers. With an uneasy feeling in his guts, he circled a very familiar number that was missing on the print-out that Nick had requested. What on earth had his partner gotten himself into? And what was he supposed to do? * * * Nick sat at his kitchen table, a glass and a half empty bottle of blood beside him, and stared at the photographs laid out in front of him. How much did they really know, he wondered. Had they chosen daytime because they knew heA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›d be unable to stay close by? A›ƒ,ͺ"Nicolas...,A›ƒ,ͺA_ JanetteA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s voice purred from the balcony and pulled him out of his reverie. The next instant she was beside him and complained, A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve been waiting at the club and now itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s nearly dawn.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick looked up and took in her attire. She wore a black leather dress that clung to her slender figure like a glove. Her neck was decorated with the ruby necklace, which made him groan. A›ƒ,ͺ"Janette, I asked you not to wear it in public as long as this case isnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t closed.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Mon chAŸAcr, you can hardly call a flight from the club to your loft public. I highly doubt that anyone saw me. What has you so worked up?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m in trouble, Janette,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick sighed and pointed at the photos. Janette regarded them briefly and mirrored his sigh. A›ƒ,ͺ"So many burdens again, chAŸAcri?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Purching on his lap, she added in a sultry voice, A›ƒ,ͺ"Let me see what I can do to ease them...A›ƒ,ͺA_ Unable to resist, Nick pulled her close and captured her lips in a slow, breathtaking kiss. * * * The startling noise of the elevator door put a sudden end to their increasing passion. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked as he stepped out of the lift, his eyes bulging as he saw his uptight partner engaged in a more than friendly kiss with the seductively dressed babe in his arms. A›ƒ,ͺ"Does none of your friends know how to knock anymore?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette complained, pulling away from Nick. A›ƒ,ͺ"Oh, Janet, hi,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke said, recognizing her. A›ƒ,ͺ"Please, itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s Janette,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she corrected him, moving from NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s lap. A›ƒ,ͺ"Schanke, what do you want?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick asked, sounding slightly hoarse. To his chagrin he saw that Schanke was staring at the necklace Janette was wearing. A›ƒ,ͺ"Sorry to interrupt like this, but I think we really should talk. Could you give us a minute, Janette?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette cast an inquiring glance at Nick. When he nodded, she moved gracefully towards the stairs and vanished into his bedroom. Schanke advanced the table hesitantly and took in the photos as well as the wine bottle and the glass that Nick emptied hastily. Pulling out a chair, he sat down and faced him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick, I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t know what kind of trouble youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve gotten into, but I know that youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re somehow involved in this case.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What else do you know, Schanke?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick demanded, deciding to assess the amount of SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s knowledge first before making him forget. A›ƒ,ͺ"YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve been in the jewellery store that night. YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve tempered with the phone log to hide the evidence and I assume youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re being blackmailed.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick looked at him in surprise. A›ƒ,ͺ"Why do you think that?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"The way you acted tonight after youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve seen the envelope,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke supplied. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick, IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m your partner and your friend. Whatever they hold against you, I can help, but you have to be honest with me.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick regarded him for a long moment. A›ƒ,ͺ"I --- I think I can use your help,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he finally admitted and handed him the note he had received. Schanke scanned it briefly and whistled. A›ƒ,ͺ"West End Mall is closed on Sundays until 2 p.m. The place will be deserted, making it difficult to watch without being seen.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I canA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t go out there at 10,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated gloomily. Schanke studied the photos closer. A›ƒ,ͺ"Damnit, Nick, what were you doing in that store?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he suddenly burst out. A›ƒ,ͺ"I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t kill Fouchard, if that was your question,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shot back. A›ƒ,ͺ"I just wanted to buy something.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"You bought the necklace? How? ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s worth a yearA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s salary!A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I know,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick mumbled. A›ƒ,ͺ"You signed the receipt using a different name. Are you somehow involved with this Brabant guy? Is Janette?A›ƒ,ͺA_ There was a long pause before Nick confessed almost inaudibly, A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s my real name.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What?!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke exclaimed. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nicholas de Brabant. The money comes from a family legacy. ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a long story.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke stared at him open-mouthed. A›ƒ,ͺ"YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re telling me that you can walk into a jewellery store and buy a necklace thatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s worth a fortune?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick nodded cautiously, fearing an assault of questions. A›ƒ,ͺ"Wow, I guess I need a drink as well,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke said and reached for the bottle. But Nick beat him to it and had it out of reach before he could touch it. When Schanke looked at him startled, he shrugged, A›ƒ,ͺ"Let me get a new bottle. That oneA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s already gone stale.A›ƒ,ͺA_ He stood and searched in the cabinet under the sink for something with less hemoglobin content. He came back with a bottle of Single Malt. A›ƒ,ͺ"Is whisky okay for you?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke eyed the bottle appreciatively. A›ƒ,ͺ"Single Malt? Are you crazy? Of course thatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s okay.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Smiling in amusement, Nick retrieved two new glasses and poured out. A›ƒ,ͺ"Cheers,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said, clinking his glass against SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s. Schanke nodded and took a huge gulp, while Nick nipped at his glass before setting it back down. A›ƒ,ͺ"Ah, Single Malt... thereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s nothing quite like it,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke exhaled, licking his lips. A›ƒ,ͺ"Do you have any more treasures hidden there?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Coffee, among other things,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick replied. A›ƒ,ͺ"Coffee? A treasure? For Nat perhaps,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke laughed. Then he lowered his voice. A›ƒ,ͺ"Apropos Nat, does she know about...,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he nodded at the closed bedroom door. A›ƒ,ͺ"I thought you two were....A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat and I are friends,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated hastily. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nothing more.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke nodded, not convinced that Nat would share this opinion. A›ƒ,ͺ"So why the alias? Why the big secrecy?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"My... family doesnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t approve of my job,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated, which was the truth for a change. Schanke regarded the loft with new insight. The piano, the paintings, the many artifacts, the way Nick dressed, it all spoke of money and an exquisite taste that required a wealthy background and upbringing. A›ƒ,ͺ"Brabant..., isnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t that a royal name in Belgium?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke mused, watching his partner curiously. A›ƒ,ͺ"There was a special on European royalties on the history channel recently. Myra taped it all.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"It is,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick sighed. A›ƒ,ͺ"And no, IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m not related to the king. At least not first degree. That lineage separated centuries ago.A›ƒ,ͺA_ That explains something, Schanke thought. On occasion Nick tended to treat others as if they were inferior beings to him. He doubted that it was a conscious decision on NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s part, but it showed from time to time. Turning his eyes back to the photos on the table, he asked, A›ƒ,ͺ"And what do you want to do now? Hand the necklace over?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Certainly not! The ideal solution would be to go along with their proposal, have a package waiting for them in the car and arrest them when they try to retrieve it. However, I canA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t do that during the day and you said in the open space they would see anybody approaching from afar. I could leave the Caddy there before sunrise, but I need you to make the arrest.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Okay,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke agreed. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good. Meet me at the Mall one hour before sunrise.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stood and Schanke realized that he was dismissed. Nick accompanied him to the lift. A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said. A›ƒ,ͺ"You wonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t mention anything of our conversation.A›ƒ,ͺA_ There it was again. Schanke felt the hair on the back of his neck rise as he detected the gentle threat in NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s voice. How he did that was beyond his comprehension. It probably had to do with his background. Schanke could only nod and assure him of his secrecy. Then he stepped into the lift and relaxed only as the lift descended. * * * Nick picked up his glass of whisky from the table and added a good portion of blood to it. After taking a long draught, he ascended the stairs and entered his bedroom. A›ƒ,ͺ"I thought heA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›d never leave,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette remarked. A›ƒ,ͺ"Not that I want to criticize you, Nicolas, but do you think itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s wise to let him keep his knowledge?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I need him to make the arrest,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick replied and sat down on the bed. A›ƒ,ͺ"I can always make him forget later.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Leaning forward, he gave Janette a lingering kiss. His hand moved over her chin towards her neck until he touched her necklace. A›ƒ,ͺ"May I borrow this tomorrow?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What for?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette asked, upset. A›ƒ,ͺ"I have to consent to the deal for appearanceA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s sake.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"O, Nicolas,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette complained. A›ƒ,ͺ"First you tell me not to wear it in public, now you want to snatch it from me entirely?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll compensate you for it,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said huskily and began a sensual assault on her skin. * * * to be continued in part 4 * * * PJ blue_Twingo772@yahoo.de Subject: Disclosures 4/6 From: P J Date: Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:28:27 +0000 To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU X-Account-Key: account8 X-UIDL: 91de7fb70258bb9a62e2c92544a47515 X-Mozilla-Status: 0000 X-Mozilla-Status2: 00000000 Return-path: <> Envelope-to: stephke@IGLOU.COM Delivery-date: Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:28:49 -0500 Received: from f05s16.cac.psu.edu ([128.118.141.59]) by mailmx.iglou.com with esmtp (Exim MTA/8.19.3) (envelope-from ) id 1LAUjo-0001rk-7m; Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:28:48 -0500 Received: from tr12n08 (tr12g08.aset.psu.edu [146.186.16.58]) by f05s16.cac.psu.edu (8.13.8/8.12.11) with ESMTP id mBAB5SS7082420; Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:28:32 -0500 Message-ID: <200812101928.mBAB5SS7082420@f05s16.cac.psu.edu> Reply-To: blue_twingo772@yahoo.de Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories Precedence: list X-Foreign-Sender: 128.118.141.59 X-UIDL: 91de7fb70258bb9a62e2c92544a47515 Continued from part 3 Disclaimer in part 1 Disclosures (4/6) by PJ December 2008 A›ƒ,ͺ"And as always, gentle listeners, remember that you can confide in the Nightcrawler. He knows your deepest desires anyway. Until tomorrow...A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie sat in her car and listened as Lacroix ended his nightly broadcast. After a brief hesitation she switched off the stereo and exited her car. She approached the door to the CERK building and went inside. Her heart beat faster as she climbed the stairs that led to the floor where she suspected the studio was. The building seemed deserted at this time of the waning night. She reached the door to the studio and peeked inside, astonished to find not even a technician in the ante-room. The bluish light coming from the sound booth informed her that someone was still there. Her breath caught as she looked through the window and saw Lacroix behind his desk, a glass in front of him. With his fingers tented, he gazed at the door as if he were expecting her. For a moment she questioned the wisdom of her decision to come here, but to retreat now would only make things worse. Determined, she stepped into the sound booth and cleared her throat. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good evening...,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she began. A›ƒ,ͺ"Good morning would be more precise,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix corrected her.. A›ƒ,ͺ"To what do I owe the honour of your visit, Natalie?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat suppressed a blush at the intimate address. The way her name rolled from his tongue made it sound almost like a caress. A›ƒ,ͺ"I --- IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m interested in some answers,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she stated. A›ƒ,ͺ"Ah,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he breathed. A›ƒ,ͺ"Curiosity. It distorts our judgement and leads us to actions that some might consider as bravery and others as folly.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Well?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat prodded, not keen at getting involved into a philosophical reflection when she wanted plain answers. Lacroix cast a glance towards the clock on the wall. A›ƒ,ͺ"Dawn will arrive shortly. I suggest we move to a more comfortable place to lead this conversation.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"No, here is fine,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat objected, causing him to raise an eyebrow. She felt more comfortable in the knowledge that he was trapped in this building while she was free to go. It gave her a feeling of superiority that enabled her to face him at all. A›ƒ,ͺ"As you wish,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix conceded and reached for a bottle to refill his glass. A›ƒ,ͺ"Please, do sit down.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie took the chair opposite from him and looked at him expectantly. * * * Nick sat in the passenger seat of SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s car, feeling more and more uncomfortable as the sky began to lighten. Although he wore his duster, gloves, hat and sunglasses, he felt the heat of the approaching sun on his skin. A›ƒ,ͺ"You did clear out the trunk, didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t you?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he asked Schanke as the urge to seek shelter became overwhelming. A›ƒ,ͺ"O, please, youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re not that allergic. This is the western side of the building. Even after sunrise this place will be in the shadows until late afternoon.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"But when we follow the perp, IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m not going to sit here,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick insisted. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s still early morning,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke observed and filled a cup from a thermo. A›ƒ,ͺ"You donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t want to spend hours in my trunk. Here, have some coffee and relax.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"No,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick declined. A›ƒ,ͺ"Whatever,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke sighed and emptied the cup himself. They were parked between dumpsters on the shadowy backside of the Shopping Mall, while the Caddy stood about 100 meters away from them on the deserted car park. Around 8.30, a truck pulled onto the car park. A›ƒ,ͺ"Do you think itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s them?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked. A›ƒ,ͺ"I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t think so,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shook his head and watched as the truck turned on the car park, about to depart again. However, while doing so, a sun beam reflected from the polished trailer surface. Nick hissed in pain and covered his cheek where the light beam had left a scorched mark. A›ƒ,ͺ"What?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked, slightly unnerved by his partnerA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s antics. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nothing,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick replied tersely and removed his hand as the pain lessened. Schanke regarded him questioningly and furrowed his brows as he noticed the faint red mark on NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s cheek. He was sure it hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t been there before. He took another sip from his coffee and looked at Nick again, finding the skin unscathed. Shaking his head, he stalked it up to a trick of light. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Well?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie asked again as the silence between them stretched out to the point of becoming uncomfortable. A›ƒ,ͺ"My dear, if you wish to receive answers, you will have to ask questions,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix remarked with a hint of amusement in his voice. Feeling like a silly school girl, Natalie suppressed her growing annoyance and took a calming breath. A›ƒ,ͺ"Okay. What is it that Nick isnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t telling me? Why canA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t he be intimate without biting?A›ƒ,ͺA_ The shadow of a smile crossed LacroixA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s features. A›ƒ,ͺ"It is something no mere mortal can possibly comprehend...A›ƒ,ͺA_ He casually slid his glass towards Natalie. A›ƒ,ͺ"Taste it,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he offered. Nat stared at the glass with repulsion. A›ƒ,ͺ"No, thank you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she declined. With a shrug Lacroix retrieved his glass and took a deliberate sip. A›ƒ,ͺ"What you regard with repulsion is much more than a source of food for us,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he stated after setting the glass down. Natalie listened intrigued as he continued, A›ƒ,ͺ"Besides the necessary nutrients, it provides us with the very essence of its owner. We can taste memories, emotions, an entire life when the sample is still fresh.A›ƒ,ͺA_ He took another sip from his glass and regarded it rather critically. A›ƒ,ͺ"This one is already fading. But I digress... Now, you probably agree that the purpose of intimacy is to bring the partner to the point of ecstasy...A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie swallowed as she felt her cheeks getting hot. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"There,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick broke the silence as a motor-bike raced towards the Caddy. The driver stopped briefly, reached down to retrieve the package from the seat and sped off again. A›ƒ,ͺ"Wait until IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m in the trunk and follow him!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick instructed and opened the door. In a rush he rounded the car and climbed into the trunk, breathing out in relief as he was enclosed in darkness. Instantly the car was set into motion. Compared to his Caddy, this trunk was horribly small. He moved into the most comfortable position and reached into the pocket of his duster to retrieve a silver flask. After a long draught he restored it and tried to focus on the road turnings. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Imagine this utmost moment of bliss transferred into taste. Nothing is sweeter than the blood of a lover, aroused by passion, Natalie,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix breathed and rose from his seat. Natalie tensed as he brushed his finger tips along her arms. Her first impulse was to jump from her seat and flee, but her legs felt like jelly, unable to support her. A›ƒ,ͺ"It is a delightful art to initiate a gradual arousal in the partner,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix continued. Stepping behind her, he brushed her hair aside, exposing the slender column of her neck. NatalieA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s heart raced as she felt the soft touch of his lips on her skin. To her shock, she found her body responding to his advances. * * * Schanke followed the biker at high speed, noting that he made his way towards the lake shore. As he turned onto another deserted road in the industrial park, he noticed that the biker had opened a canister and poured something onto the street. Too late Schanke recognized it as oil. As soon as he entered that part of the road, he lost control and bumped sideways into another parked car. A›ƒ,ͺ"Damn!A›ƒ,ͺA_ he cursed and jumped from his car. To his shock he saw the biker lighting a match and dropping it into the oil puddle. He rushed to the trunk, calling,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick! Get out of there!A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"No!A›ƒ,ͺA_ came the muffled reply. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick! You will be blown to pieces if you donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t come out!A›ƒ,ͺA_ As the trunk opened carefully, Schanke pulled it all the way open and pulled his partner out, dragging him away from the car. A short time later the tank exploded in a loud bang. Schanke lost ground and found himself transported through the air by the pressure wave, while his partner clung to him. They crashed down near a warehouse. When Schanke checked on Nick, he saw smoke emanating from his skin and blisters forming on his cheeks. He must have been hit by some burning pieces, he concluded. A›ƒ,ͺ"Get me out of the sun!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick screamed in a voice that bordered on terror. Schanke lifted him under the arms and dragged him into the warehouse. Once in the shadows, Nick curled into a fetal position and remained silent. Schanke watched in concern as whisps of smoke still emanated from NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s entire body as if he was smoldering from the inside. This was odd. A›ƒ,ͺ"Let me check on your wounds,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said and tried to move NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s arm out of the way in order to get a better look at his face. A›ƒ,ͺ"No, just leave me here,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick groaned. A›ƒ,ͺ"Are you crazy? You belong in a hospital with those burns.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"No!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick hissed more forcefully than Schanke would have judged possible in his condition. A›ƒ,ͺ"No hospital, no ambulance.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"But why ---,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he cut himself off as he heard a motor-cycle approaching. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s not over yet,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he announced and pulled out his gun. He dragged Nick further into the warehouse and took shelter behind a crate. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"I can smell your growing arousal, Natalie,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix whispered into her ear. A›ƒ,ͺ"When I taste the reward for my efforts, you will be able to feel the pleasure I find in your blood... It will be the most intimate moment you have ever experienced...A›ƒ,ͺA_ NatalieA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s breath was coming in rags and she moaned low, as she felt his fangs grazing her throat in a sensual manner. When her body was on the point of climax, she yearned for his bite, knowing it would come soon. But instead there was a rush of air and she found him on the opposite side of the room. She snapped out of her trance, now fully alert to what had almost happened. She touched her neck, reassuring herself that it was unscathed. A›ƒ,ͺ"What were you ---,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she began, but stopped as she noticed the look on his face. There was a brief flicker of terror that quickly resolved into concern, mixed with relief, before his features resumed his usual neutral expression. A›ƒ,ͺ"What is it?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she asked confused. She hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t known that Lacroix was capable of any emotions at all. * * * The door to the warehouse was slid open and the biker raced at full speed towards them, a gun in his hand. Schanke aimed at the tyres and fired. The biker crashed down, but scrambled instantly back to his feet and opened fire himself. Schanke ducked behind the crate, while the biker retrieved his vehicle and fled from the warehouse. Schanke breathed a sigh of relief and turned to his partner. In shock, he noticed that blood had pooled under him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick! YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve been hit?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he asked in alarm. A›ƒ,ͺ"It just grazed me,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick replied through clenched teeth and tried to pull himself into a sitting position. A›ƒ,ͺ"Will you now let me take you to a hospital?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked.. A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m not going anywhere before the sun sets,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick refused stubbornly, leaning with his back against a crate. A›ƒ,ͺ"YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll bleed to death if you stay here like this,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke pointed out. Nick shook his head. A›ƒ,ͺ"Trust me, I wonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Let me at least check on the wound and stop the bleeding,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke demanded. Now that more light streamed into the warehouse, Schanke got a better look at Nick. His face featured ugly blisters and his shoulder was soaked in blood. There was a bullet hole above his heart, which made him wonder how Nick could be alive at all after the injuries he had received. The way Nick stared at him with a rather hungry expression didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t help to calm the increasing nervousness that took hold of Schanke. He could have sworn there was an eerie red glow in NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s eyes, but it vanished as Nick blinked several times. Nick averted his gaze as Schanke opened his duster and uncovered his shoulder. Schanke stared open-mouthed at the gaping wound above NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s heart. He pulled him forward and noticed a similar hole in his back. The skin was reddened as if he had received a severe sunburn. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick, the bullet didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t graze you, it went right through you. How is that possible?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I guess I was just lucky,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick replied hoarsely. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s more than that,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke said while he pressed his handkerchief on the wound. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a miracle that youA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re alive.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a curse...,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick mumbled before passing out. A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick! DonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t die on me now!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke called and touched NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s neck. A›ƒ,ͺ"Damnit!A›ƒ,ͺA_ he cursed as he found no pulse. He pulled out his cell phone, about to call for help, when a gloved hand clasped his wrist. He dropped the phone and let out a shriek. A›ƒ,ͺ"No ambulance!A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick rasped. A›ƒ,ͺ"Jeeez, Nick! I thought you were dead! You had no pulse!A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"You missed it. Call Nat...,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he requested and passed out again. Schanke brushed the sweat from his brow and tried to fight the growing feeling of uneasiness in his gut. He picked up his cell phone and dialled NatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s number. A›ƒ,ͺ"Lambert,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat answered, sounding a bit tense. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s me. I have a situation here with Nick. HeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s badly wounded, but he refuses to let me call an ambulance.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Where are you?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat asked quickly. A›ƒ,ͺ"In a warehouse at Lake Side Industrial Park.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll be there in 20 minutes,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat announced. A›ƒ,ͺ"Make sure Nick stays out of the sun. And keep your distance.A›ƒ,ͺA_ The call ended before Schanke could ask what she meant by that. * * * Nat looked up at the man in front of her. A›ƒ,ͺ"Do you want to come with me?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Out in the sun?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix replied, raising his eyebrow. A›ƒ,ͺ"Although the offer is tempting, I have to decline.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Will Nick be alright?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat asked. A›ƒ,ͺ"His life is not in jeopardy,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix replied smoothly. A›ƒ,ͺ"What about SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix shrugged. A›ƒ,ͺ"That depends on the amount of control my son has regained during the last weeks.A›ƒ,ͺA_ He walked over to his cabinet and removed a bottle. A›ƒ,ͺ"You may need this when you treat him, Doctor.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat took the bottle. A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said and hurried from the studio. * * * Schanke crouched down opposite from Nick, keeping a close watch over him. At least the bleeding had stopped, but he had not stirred since Schanke had made the phone call to Nat. He couldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t remember having ever seen Nick in a state like this. His partner usually seemed indestructable, even in the midst of a shooting. Over the years he had come to rely on NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s ability to manage every situation to their benefit. And now Nick was severely injured and he wouldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t let him call for an ambulance. Why? A›ƒ,ͺ"Schanke?A›ƒ,ͺA_ NatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s voice called from the entrance to the warehouse, rousing him from his contemplation. A›ƒ,ͺ"Over here,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he called back and stood to wave her over. Nat hurried past him and knelt down beside Nick, giving him a once over. A›ƒ,ͺ"What happened?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she asked. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a long story. He got shot and must have caught a hit when my car blew up. ThatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s where the burns come from.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat shook her head. A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s his allergy. He shouldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t be out here.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"You mean his sun allergy is that severe?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s lethal. ThatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s why he canA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t go into a hospital. They would never allow him to continue his job,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat explained in an effort to do some damage control. She knew Nick needed blood, but she didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t want to give him the bottle in front of Schanke. Tossing her keys at Schanke, she said, A›ƒ,ͺ"Can you get my car into the warehouse? We have to get him home without exposing him to sunlight.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nodding, Schanke complied. Nat pulled the bottle from her bag and opened it. As soon as she held it against NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s lips, his eyes shot open, staring at her with a hungry red glow. She hoped the bottled blood would distract him sufficiently from her own. She held the bottle higher, allowing a steady flow into his mouth.. Instantly he swallowed, sucking the fluid greedily from the bottle. When it was empty, he let out a contented sigh and fell into a deep sleep. Nat hid the empty bottle in her bag and stood to await SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s return. A›ƒ,ͺ"Help me, get him in the trunk,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said as Schanke got out from the driverA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s side. Schanke grabbed him by the shoulders while Nat took NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s legs. He couldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t help but wonder about NatalieA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s detached attitude.. Nick was severely wounded and Nat seemed to show only minimal concern. * * * After placing Nick on his bed, Natalie said, A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks, Schanke. IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll take over from here. Go, take my car and get some rest.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Are you sure heA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s going to be alright? He hasnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t stirred since I called you and it looks as if he isnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t breathing.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Schanke, trust me. Nick has a very special constitution. He will be alright.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"But shouldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t we call a doctor?A›ƒ,ͺA_ he suggested. A›ƒ,ͺ"I am a doctor,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat reminded him, shoving him into the lift. Breathing a sigh of relief as the elevator descended, Nat grabbed several bottles of blood from the fridge and carried them upstairs. Nick still lay in the same position they had left him in. After depositing the bottles onto the nightstand, she closed the door silently and returned downstairs. She fetched a comforter from a drawer and settled onto the couch, hoping to catch some hours of sleep. However, as soon as she lay down, her thoughts returned to her confrontation with Lacroix. How stupid of her to seek him out with hopes of remaining unharmed. If it hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t been for NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s injury, sheA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›d probably be drained by now or worse. How could he simply make his advances on her without any resistance on her part? That nerve he had! First occupying her bed and now this. He made her so furious! And yet, she was fascinated by what he had told her about the way vampires experienced the taste of blood. She wondered what Nick learned from the cowA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s blood he used to feed on. * * * to be continued in part 5 * * * PJ blue_Twingo772@yahoo.de Subject: Disclosures 6/6 From: P J Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 21:02:46 +0000 To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU X-Account-Key: account8 X-UIDL: d1a086f66abc0c309af1d128e32f2c1a X-Mozilla-Status: 0000 X-Mozilla-Status2: 00000000 Return-path: <> Envelope-to: stephke@IGLOU.COM Delivery-date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:03:08 -0500 Received: from f05s16.cac.psu.edu ([128.118.141.59]) by mailmx.iglou.com with esmtp (Exim MTA/8.19.3) (envelope-from ) id 1LAsgc-0002jP-Iz; Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:03:06 -0500 Received: from tr12n08 (tr12g08.aset.psu.edu [146.186.16.58]) by f05s16.cac.psu.edu (8.13.8/8.12.11) with ESMTP id mBBB1HR0090064; Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:02:53 -0500 Message-ID: <200812112102.mBBB1HR0090064@f05s16.cac.psu.edu> Reply-To: blue_twingo772@yahoo.de Sender: Forever Knight TV show stories Precedence: list X-Foreign-Sender: 128.118.141.59 X-UIDL: d1a086f66abc0c309af1d128e32f2c1a Continued from part 5 Disclaimer in part 1 Disclosures (6/6) by PJ December 2008 Nick entered the Raven and made his way to the bar, where Janette was perched on a stool, engrossed in a fashion journal. Stepping up behind her, he slipped the necklace onto her neck. A›ƒ,ͺ"I believe thatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s yours,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he whispered. A›ƒ,ͺ"Oh Nicolas!A›ƒ,ͺA_ she exclaimed in delight. A›ƒ,ͺ"The case is solved,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he stated. A›ƒ,ͺ"The killer turned out to be the victimA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s sister-in-law who felt neglected by her husband. He travels most of the time on behalf of his job and she thought by killing his brother, he would stay in town and take over the store.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Hmmm,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette purred and ran a gloved finger playfully down NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s chest. A›ƒ,ͺ"A woman neglected because her husband values his job more than her... One could almost sympathize...A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick quickly leaned in and kissed her lips. A›ƒ,ͺ"I think IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve already proven my priorities...,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he mumbled. A›ƒ,ͺ"And what about your partner?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette inquired after the kiss. A›ƒ,ͺ"HeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s still an unsolved problem,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said solemnly. A›ƒ,ͺ"Then deal with him, Nicolas. Before he rouses attention.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m not quite sure I can erase everything. ThereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re already so many consequences... His car, the arrest... I would have to provide him with a new memory concerning every single thread.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Then tell him the truth,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette suggested. Nick looked at her startled. He could only imagine how his partner would recoil from him in horror if he told him the truth. It would change everything between them. A›ƒ,ͺ"You canA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t be serious. IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m glad he hasnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t figured it out yet.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Ecoute, Nicolas. ThereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s nothing more dangerous than a curious mortal who knows there are still secrets to disclose. The same applies for Dr. Lambert, by the way.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Nat? Why?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick asked. A›ƒ,ͺ"I understand that she rushed to help you with a bottle of finest blood ready. She didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t get it from me.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick gaped at her in alarm. A›ƒ,ͺ"What are you saying? That she ---A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"When I sensed your distress, I called Lacroix. He said help was on the way. She must have gone to him, Nicolas.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I have to talk to her,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said and flew out of the club.. * * * He made his way silently into the morgue. Finding Natalie in her lab, laying out instruments, he approached her from behind. Her hair was wrapped into a bun, leaving her neck accessible. On impulse he bent down and placed a soft kiss on her jugular. A›ƒ,ͺ"Wh ---A›ƒ,ͺ" Nat whirled around, a scalpel in her hand. A›ƒ,ͺ"Oh, itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s you,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she breathed in relief. A›ƒ,ͺ"Must you startle me like this?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Did you expect someone else?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick asked probingly. A›ƒ,ͺ"No,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nat denied with a blush. A›ƒ,ͺ"But you never know, who might walk in.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"What were you thinking by going to him, Nat?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick demanded. A›ƒ,ͺ"I wanted answers, Nick,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she said in defense. A›ƒ,ͺ"You refused to give them. He was more elaborate.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"You could have been killed,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated. A›ƒ,ͺ"I know. It was stupid in hindsight,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she admitted and assured him, A›ƒ,ͺ"I wonA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t go to him again.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Studying him for a while she added, A›ƒ,ͺ"Nick, why did you never mention that blood was more than a source of food? You withheld essential information I should have taken into consideration for your treatment.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t think it mattered,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he said. A›ƒ,ͺ"But itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a fascinating ability. Lacroix said IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›d be able to sense something, too.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Yes, eight centuries of endless hunger and pain. You would recoil in horror,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stated sullenly. A›ƒ,ͺ"It would be my decision. And I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t think it matters. YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›re a different person now, Nick, in spite of being a vampire. Had I judged you by your past, I wouldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t be here with you now.A›ƒ,ͺA_ For emphasis she slashed the scalpel across her inner hand, making a deep cut. A›ƒ,ͺ"Taste it,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she demanded, holding her hand up under his nose. Taken completely off guard, Nick stared mesmerized at the blood pooling in her hand. He grabbed her wrist and raised it to his mouth, lapping carefully at the blood that spilled around the wound. When the flow ceased, he raised his head and regarded her with a mixture of longing and regret in his gold-flecked eyes. A›ƒ,ͺ"Never ever do that in front of me again,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he rasped and turned to go. He stopped dead, as he discovered Schanke staring at them from the door. * * * Schanke had attended the questioning of Francoise Fouchard. Completely confused by FancoiseA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s lack of memory regarding certain incidents that involved Nick, he had driven to the morgue to return NatalieA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s car and discuss his partner with her who seemed to know him better than anyone else. However, as he neared the lab, he heard raised voices and found Nick and Natalie in a heated discussion. Something clicked in his mind as he listened in on them and the entire puzzle assembled itself all of a sudden. But the rational part of his brain refused to believe what he was hearing. He carefully opened the door and glanced into the lab. He questioned his sanity as he saw Nat slicing her hand and offering it to Nick, who didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t hesitate to lick it clean. As Nick turned around, Schanke stared at him open mouthed. There was an odd glow in his eyes and his mouth was smeared with blood, which he quickly wiped away. A›ƒ,ͺ"How long have you been standing there, Schanke?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick inquired in a rough voice, startling him from his reverie. A›ƒ,ͺ"Long enough to wonder if I should go to a shrink,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke replied. A›ƒ,ͺ"You arenA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t going anywhere before we had a talk,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick said and took him by the sleeve, dragging him out of the lab. Nick hailed a cab and shoved Schanke in the back seat. Then he slid in behind him and gave the driver directions to the loft. They passed the drive in silence although Nick was quite aware of SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s probing glances.. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Ultimate ecstasy? Yeah right,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Natalie muttered while wrapping a bandage around her hand. As she searched for a tape, she found it handed to her by a black sleeved hand. A›ƒ,ͺ"Is something wrong?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix inquired in a purring voice. A›ƒ,ͺ"You said I would be able to sense something. It didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t feel any different than when Sydney laps milk from my hand. I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t feel a thing,A›ƒ,ͺA_ she replied, angry at her own foolishness for believing what he said. A›ƒ,ͺ"Of course not,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix affirmed, amused. A›ƒ,ͺ"It has to be drained actively for the connection to be made. Allow me...A›ƒ,ͺA_ He took her hand, but instead of fastening the bandage with tape, he unwrapped it. After critically regarding the oozing cut, he closed his lips over it and sucked intensely. Natalie gasped as she felt her insides turn to jelly. Her breathing quickened and her mouth was going dry. After a moment the sensation ceased as Lacroix let go of her hand and replaced the bandage expertly. She stared at him in total shock while trying to calm the rapid beating of her heart. A›ƒ,ͺ"That is a fraction of how it feels, Natalie,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he breathed. A›ƒ,ͺ"A fraction?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she gaped, unable to imagine any increase of what she just felt. A›ƒ,ͺ"It will be more intense when the blood is taken from the neck,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Lacroix explained smoothly, drawing a fingertip along the side of her neck. Retreating a step from him, Natalie gathered her wits and remarked, A›ƒ,ͺ"But I didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t sense anything from you.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Why should I allow that,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he shrugged. A›ƒ,ͺ"You arenA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t interested in me after all, nA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›est-ce pas?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Burying his hands in his pockets, he strolled out of the lab. * * * As they reached the loft, Nick opened the door to the elevator, saying, A›ƒ,ͺ"After you.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke slid past him, his heartbeat increasing as the lift began its rattling ascend. Unconsciously he kept himself in a corner, placing as much distance between them as the space allowed. He released a breath as the elevator stopped and Nick preceded him into the loft. Schanke remained hesitantly by the door, while Nick discarded his jacket and gathered two bottles and glasses from the kitchen. Schanke recognized the bottle of Single Malt and made his way to the couch where Nick had sat up their beverages. He poured a glass of whiskey and slid it over to Schanke. Then he opened the second bottle and filled the other glass. Schanke noticed the thickness of the red liquid and swallowed. His stomach churned as Nick took a deliberate sip. A›ƒ,ͺ"YouA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve noticed that IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m different,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick began. A›ƒ,ͺ"Now you know.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›m not quite sure what I know, Nick,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke said nervously. A›ƒ,ͺ"I heard Nat referring to you as a vampire and IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve seen you lick up her blood. But IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve always thought vampires were mythical creatures with fangs who kill people and turn into bats.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick cringed at SchankeA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s words. A›ƒ,ͺ"I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t kill people and I donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t turn into a bat,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he assured him. Schanke stared again at his glass. A›ƒ,ͺ"But thatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s blood?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"From a stockyard,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick supplied hastily. A›ƒ,ͺ"Uh-huh. And thatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s all you eat?A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s all I require. I cannot tolerate mortal food.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Mortal? But you are... You are not...?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shook his head. A›ƒ,ͺ"ThatA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s why the bullet didnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t kill me. I heal incredibly fast. Sunlight is a problem though.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Weird,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke remarked when another thought struck him. A›ƒ,ͺ"Does that mean you donA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t age?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick shook his head in affirmation. A›ƒ,ͺ"How long have you been around?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke asked curiously. A›ƒ,ͺ"800 years,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick supplied. Schanke stared at him open mouthed. A›ƒ,ͺ"Wow, I guess that makes you a genius in history. You know, Jenny has to write this essay about the Inquisition. Do you think you could help her with that?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick stared at him astonished. It was obvious that Schanke hadnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t processed the entire meaning yet, or he wouldnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t let him near his daughter after knowing what he was. Leaning forward in his seat, he implored, A›ƒ,ͺ"What you just heard is strictly confidential, Schanke. ItA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s essential that you do not mention my existence to anyone. Not to Myra, not to Jenny. Otherwise weA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ll both be in a lot of trouble.A›ƒ,ͺA_ A›ƒ,ͺ"Uh-huh,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke mumbled, feeling the hair at the back of his neck rise as he perceived the underlying threat in NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s tone. He reached for his glass and upended it in a large swallow. Nick moved to refill it, but Schanke held up his hand. A›ƒ,ͺ"No, thanks. IA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›ve got to go. I should catch some sleep before I meet my accountant about that car in the morning.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Nick nodded and walked him to the door. A›ƒ,ͺ"Let me know if thereA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s a problem with reimbursement. I was responsible that it blew up in the first place. I owe you a replacement, Schanke.A›ƒ,ͺA_ Schanke relaxed visibly at NickA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s soft tone. A›ƒ,ͺ"Thanks, Nick.A›ƒ,ͺA_ * * * Nick stood still rooted in front of the elevator as Janette glided through the skylight. Landing behind him, she snaked her arm around his shoulder, pressing herself against him. A›ƒ,ͺ"You talked to your friend?A›ƒ,ͺA_ she inquired curiously. Absently placing a kiss upon the back of her hand, Nick nodded. A›ƒ,ͺ"I could sense his fear. And he hasnA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›t even seen my fangs,A›ƒ,ͺA_ he sighed. A›ƒ,ͺ"Is he going to be a problem?A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette asked, withdrawing her arm. Turning to face her, Nick replied. A›ƒ,ͺ"I trust him. But a frightened cop is a danger to himself. Only time will tell if heA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s able to adapt.A›ƒ,ͺ" A›ƒ,ͺ"Time is something that we have plenty of, mon chAŸAcr,A›ƒ,ͺA_ Janette purred and snaked her arms around him once more. * * * A›ƒ,ͺ"Bon soir, mes amis... The Nightcrawler is on the air, offering a little philosophical reflection on the meaning of disclosures. Has it never occurred to you that secrets are kept from you for a reason? Disclosures rarely happen without consequences. The knowledge confided in you may change your life forever. Are you ready to face the consequences, gentle listener? Sometimes itA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s not so much the secret in itself, that turns your life upside down, but the person who discloses it to you. Strangers turn into confidants, confidants into lovers. It is merely a matter of time until your curiosity to experience the full impact of what has been disclosed to you becomes unbearable...A›ƒ,ͺA_ * * * Natalie switched the radio off and scratched the faded scar on her hand that was tingling with an unnerving intensity. Fin I hope you liked it. Comments are welcome at blue_Twingo772@yahoo.de. The entire story will be available at my own FK Fiction page http://Knightcrawler1228.googlepages.com/ and Cousin LucillaA›ƒ,ͺƒ,›s www.come-undone.net. * * * PJ blue_Twingo772@yahoo.de