http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php RDF feed http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=3004&th=116#msg_3004 The north side of the island, around 2:30pm...

Luke, Tyler, Alex and Rommel stood on the beach near the north end of the island. “OK, guys, here’s the plan. Tyler, I want you to head back the way we came, then duck into the jungle. Not too far. Find a decent hiding place and stay there.” The boy nodded enthusiastically. Luke then turned to Alex. “I want you to head north along the beach for a while before heading into the jungle. Stay away from the cliffs, do you hear me?” Alex also nodded. “Rom and I will wait fifteen minutes, then go searching for Tyler. We’ll then head out and try and find you. Alex, if by some chance you find a stream or puddle in the jungle, cross it. Make this hard for him.” He glanced down at his watch. “OK, go!”

Both boys sprinted off, each in a different direction. Luke sat down in the sand, idly tossing a stick for Rom to fetch. A few minutes later he got to his feet and whistled to his dog. Kneeling down, he fastened Rom’s orange vest on. He grabbed the dog’s muzzle and looked into his eyes. “Rommel, time to get to work.” The dog instantly came to attention and sat rock still at his master’s side. Luke hefted his pack on his back and the two started off down the beach.

As soon as he was out of Luke’s sight, Tyler trotted off into the woods. He wove through the underbrush, scouting for a good hiding spot. He spied a medium-sized tree, with plenty of low hanging branches. He quickly scrambled up, and found a decent branch near the top, then settled down to wait.

Alex wandered along the edge of the water until it started to turn rocky. He made his way to the edge of the jungle, skirting the bushes, but still staying in view of the water. He carefully watched his step. The land here dropped sharply into the ocean, the cliff edges meeting the water about forty feet below. The constant wind at this part of the island had smoothed the land, and made the rocks slick with sea mist.

He was about to turn into the bushes when something in the water caught his eye. He paused for a moment, staring out at the sea. He was rewarded a moment later when he spied a pod of whales, breaching and sounding not far from the island. He crept closer, staying well clear of the edge, trying to get a better look.

A sudden gust of wind tore his new ball cap from his head. He tried to snatch it as it flew past, but missed. The hat landed on the edge of the cliff, a few feet in front of him. He cautiously made his way forward, reaching out to grab it. Suddenly, he slipped on the wet rock and with a yelp, went plummeting off the side of the cliff.
]]> Lillehafrue 2010-07-11T02:22:31-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=3003&th=116#msg_3003 Early afternoon, right after lunch...

“Patient has glucose of 30. You give him D50 and he states that he wants to leave. He tries to take out the IV and appears not fully alert. The next step would be to...”

Luke sighed and shut his laptop. I am so NOT in the mood to study today, he thought to himself. “What I need is a decent study partner. One who can actually help me.” He nudged Rommel, who was sleeping at his feet, with his toe. The dog merely rolled over, tail wagging sleepily. Luke chuckled. “Some help you are.”

He set the computer on the coffee table and leaned back. I could ask Dom to help me. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind. But that brings up a whole set of other issues. Luke stared up at the ceiling. Does he want me because he’s attracted to me, or because I need looking after? That’s how it all started with Barry and me. Is Dom feeling the same way? He’s never even given me an indication of feeling like this before. Dammit, I’m so confused... His thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of the door chime.

Rommel sat up, eyes alert. “Come in!” Luke called out.

The door opened and Alex and Tyler walked in. “Hi, Luke!” Alex said.

Luke smiled. “Hey, guys! How are you?” He nodded and signaled Rom, who trotted over to the boys, tail wagging happily.

“Great!” Tyler replied, sitting on the floor to scratch Rom.

Alex handed Luke a basket. “We had fried chicken for lunch and Grandma sent some over for you.”

“Terrific. I’m starving. Tell her thank-you for me.” Luke walked into the kitchen and put the basket in his nearly empty fridge. “So, what are you guys up to this afternoon?”

“School,” Tyler said morosely.

“Hey,” Alex piped up. “It’s not too bad. It’s only one more class and it’s science!”

“I have history. Bor-ring,” Tyler muttered.

Luke smiled at their banter. “Hey, I have something for you guys. Be right back.” He disappeared into his bedroom for a moment, then came back out holding two packages. “Better late than never. Merry Christmas.” He handed one to each of the boys.

Both tore into them. “Awesome!” Alex said as he pulled out a green t-shirt with the phrase: Support your local Search and Rescue. Get lost. There was also a ball cap with a SAR Rocky Mountain Division patch on it. “Thanks, Luke!!”

Tyler promptly pulled his t-shirt over his head. “Wait until Mom gets back and we show her!”

“I also have this.” Luke handed Alex a computer disc. “Remember how we talked about stocking a trout pond?” The boy nodded. “Well, here’s some preliminary data. It looks like it would be too hot for trout, but bass might work. Take a look and tell me what you think. Put a report together for me and then we’ll work on the next step.”

“Cool!” He glanced down at his watch. “C’mon, Ty, we have to get going.”

“Awwww! Do we have to?”

“Tyler, listen to your brother,” Luke told him. “Tell you what. I haven’t given Rom a good workout since I got here. Go to class then check with your grandmother. If she says it’s OK, come get me and we’ll go do some training with him.”

Tyler jumped up and headed for the door. “We will!!! See you soon, Luke. Bye, Rommel!!!”

With a wave, both boys left. Luke smiled down at his dog. “Well boy, looks like I’ll go pack a bag. We have work to do.”
]]> Lillehafrue 2010-07-11T02:19:10-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=3001&th=115#msg_3001
Really enjoyed reading this! I think you're doing a good job with developing this relationship and can't wait to see where you take it from here!]]> Icarus1982 2010-05-28T19:58:32-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=3000&th=115#msg_3000 Post 2999 by starrynebula

I really like how Scott tries to reason with himself here. He's realized that he's become attached to Cassie, but isn't ready to admit to it. His rationalization is very much Scott, and starrynebula has caught his inner voice very well.

Excellent job!]]> Tikatu 2010-05-27T23:07:14-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2999&th=116#msg_2999 After retrieving a cup of coffee from the kitchen, Scott headed out to the balcony. He figured the combination of caffeine and fresh air would help wake him up while Kyrano finished cooking breakfast.

Scott leaned one arm on the balcony railing and took a sip of the hot beverage. Looking down, he saw Gordon and Aaron conversing by the pool. ~They're probably finishing up a lesson,~ he thought, even as he noticed the pool was occupied by someone else. Cassie was reaching one end of the pool as she swam some early morning workout laps. He remembered the dark-haired firefighter mentioning at Penelope's party that she had been on the swim team in junior high. As he watched her swim he could see that training in her technique.

Cassie had been on his mind a lot since the other evening. Though they had spent time together the day before, the topic of Tuesday evening had not come up.

~Not that I haven't thought about it since then,~ Scott admitted to himself, leaning on the railing, the cup grasped in both hands. ~I just wasn't sure how to bring her son up or even if I should. I want to be supportive but not come off overbearing. She needs to work through this at her own pace. I could very easily ruin the friendship we've managed to form over the last couple of months.~

Scott shifted his position, taking another sip of his coffee. The eldest Tracy son kept watching the scene by the pool. Eventually, Aaron left. ~Probably heading back to his apartment,~ he mused.

Cassie had reached the end of the pool where Gordon was. The black-haired woman grasped the side of the pool as Gordon squatted down to talk with her. From his vantage point, Scott couldn't make out what the two of them were saying but he couldn't deny the fact that part of him wished he were down there instead of Gordon. That he was the one making Cassie laugh just like Gordon was doing now.

Standing up straighter, he considered why he felt that way. ~It doesn't make sense,~ he told himself. ~Cassie is just a friend, just like the other recruits are.~ Even as he tried to convince himself of that, Penelope's party came to mind. ~I didn't want Dom cutting in on my dance then. If I really think of her as a friend then there was no reason I should have minded the interruption.~ It was the first time he had even made that admission to himself.

Scott turned away from the railing, taking a gulp of the the cooling liquid. ~It wouldn't work. Given the situation, the two of us can only be just friends. Anything else wouldn't be appropriate given my position as IR's field commander~ he told himself, letting his Air Force training surface. He crossed the balcony to the door he had exited earlier. ~Even a friendship is questionable but--given the circumstances-- cutting myself off from interacting with the all the recruits on a day-to-day basis just wouldn't work. It's one thing for Virgil or Alan to pursue closer relationships, but given my position, it's not right to be closer to one recruit over the other. It would be unprofessional as well as possibly detrimental to IR and the work we do.~

Falling back on what had been drilled into him during his years in the Air Force, the rational part of him could easily convince himself that Cassie could only be a friend. As he headed to the lower level of the villa, however, another part of him just couldn't get a certain pair of green eyes out of his mind.]]> starrynebula 2010-05-27T19:55:33-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2985&th=116#msg_2985 He made his way down the rock corridors of Mateo. Ahead of him was the blonde head of John, who was recounting information about the facility they were making their way through. Suddenly, the narrative was pushed to the background as a low rumbling came from above. His feet froze as he glanced upwards to see rocks falling down from behind him. As the ceiling came down around him, he thought he heard Gordon's shout from behind.

“Run!” his mind cried, but his feet wouldn't cooperate.

With a gasp, Vince sat up in bed. Breathing heavily, he looked around at his surroundings. In the dark he could make out the now familiar shapes of the furniture in his new bedroom.

“Honey, are you okay?” Lana softly asked, as she rested a hand on her husband's arm.

“Yeah. Just a bad dream,” Vince said, trying to get the image of rocks falling around him to leave his mind. ~Guess visiting Mateo bothered me more than I thought,~ Vince thought to himself. “Sorry I woke you up.”

“Want to talk about it?”

Vince shook his head. He was sure he'd eventually talk to her about it, as he had in the past. Right now though, it was still too close. The last thing he wanted to do was relive it.

Throwing back the sheet, Vince swung his legs over the side of the bed. “Why don't you go back to sleep? I think I'm going to step outside and try to clear my head.”

“Okay. Whenever you want to talk . . .”

“I know,” Vince said, leaning over and stopping her words with a kiss.

Vince headed for the dresser. In the dark, he changed into a T-shirt and some jogging shorts. Retrieving a flashlight he headed for the balcony door. The morning air was on the cool side as he made his way to the side stairs.

The island was quiet at this hour of the morning, the sounds of nature being the only interruption of the silence. Vince headed down to the beach, where he turned off the flashlight. He stood there, letting his eyes adjust to the dark. Not far away, the waves crashed onto the beach.

~It's been quite awhile since I've been up this early in the morning,~ Vince thought. ~I'd forgotten how peaceful this time of day can be.~

As his eyes adjusted, Vince started walking down the beach, thinking about his dream and trying to rationalize away his fears.]]> Icarus1982 2010-05-02T22:10:56-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2984&th=116#msg_2984 Wednesday, January 23, 6:15 p.m., Thunderbird Five

Alan sat in Five's small lounge, his feet on the table, the remains of his dinner pushed aside, and a pouch of lemonade at his elbow. It was the first time he'd had all day to relax, and he was using it to catch up on his email. One window was open with his list of mail, and another was open to his favorite sports network. There wasn't much of interest to him there; the racing season hadn't yet started in the States, and though the Paris-to-Dakar race was nearing completion, he hadn't been able to muster much enthusiasm for it. No one he knew was participating.

He opened the first of his emails and scanned it. “Hm... Kenny Malone wants to know when my next race will be. Gotta talk to Dad about that.” He gave a sharp bark of laughter as he read about Kenny's latest girlfriend. “If she thinks she's going to get her claws into him, she has another think coming. Kenny's the perpetual bachelor.”

Scanning down the rest of his list, he sighed. “Let's see: a bunch of forwards from Gords—I hate to see what weird stuff he's found this time. What's this? A note from John?” Opening, he scanned down. “Ah, yeah, John. I've been doing maintenance on the scope. No, I'm not having a good time up here; it's boring beyond belief this month. Only bright spot has been that rescue in the Mediterranean. Wonder if Dom's okay. He sounded kinda shaky.” Glancing down, he smiled. “Ah, an email from Dad and Mom. With pictures of their vacation. That chalet looks nice; I'll have to see if I can get out there sometime before the snow melts.” He shook his head slightly. “They look so happy. It's great seeing Dad smile like that.”

A chime sounded, announcing the arrival of another email. The address made him take his feet from the table, and sit up straight. “Hot damn! Nikki!”

“Hullo there, Alan.

“I'd have rung you up, but my landlocked mobile doesn't work where I am now, and the satellite phone needs a good recharge and wouldn't you know it? I forgot the charger. I'll get it from the island as soon as I can.

“How are you? Nothing caught on fire up there yet? Did Gordon leave you any presents? I keep getting these strange emails from him. Where does he find those things?

“Have you heard anything about Luke? How are the children? Has Cherie finished that big project? How is the rest of the family? Thanks for forwarding those pictures from Kyrano and Lisa's honeymoon. It looked as if they enjoyed themselves. Elise has been in touch; it seems she and Virgil are an... ahem... item. Cassie sent me an email the other day, and told me about the Crenshaws. Lea sounds like a doll.

“I heard there was a rescue in the Mediterranean. Is everyone all right? I tried phoning Dom, but he wasn't at home. It feels very odd not to know all the details.

“I'm finally in Auckland. The flight from Heathrow was long; guess I'm spoiled from flying direct. Half my bags were lost for a day—you'd think that in this day and age they could keep bags and passenger together! But now it's all here, and I'm getting settled in my own little flat. Tomorrow I'm going to find out what I need to do so that I can work as a nurse here. Most of the information I've had is spot-on, but some of it conflicts, so I want a definite checklist of what to do. I'll be in classes, but I don't want to depend on your parents for everything, nor do I want to dip into my savings any more than I must.

“I might advertise for a flatmate; I'm not used to living by myself. I mean, on the island I had my own flat, yes, but there were always people around that I knew. Elise often popped by, and so did Dom and Josh. God, I miss them. I miss the infirmary, and working with Dianne. I miss swimming in the pool, and playing basketball.

“And, oh, yeah. I miss you, too. I miss you most of all.

“I'll give you my new mobile number as soon as I have it. My email remains the same. You'll have to reply to get my flat's address. I expect you to come out and visit once you're back home. As much as I like email, and phone, it's better to see you in 3-D, if you understand me.

“Waiting impatiently to hear from you.

“Love,
Nikki”

Alan smiled and chuckled. “So, she's getting settled in. And classes don't start for a few weeks yet.” He pulled up the calendar. “I'll have to make the trip early in the month; don't want to miss Gord's birthday.” Choosing a date, he shot off a quick email to his father, asking for that weekend off to see Nikki. Then he settled back in his chair and put his feet up on the table. “Computer, new email.” Thinking a moment, he nodded, and began. “Hey, Nikki! I was terribly bored, and ready to throw myself out the airlock when I got your email. You saved my sanity!” He paused, moistening his lips. “Now, which of your questions should I answer first?...”]]> Tikatu 2010-05-02T22:01:32-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2982&th=116#msg_2982
Around 4:30 pm, Tracy Island (3:30 HI, previous day) . . .
The sounds of Kahanu Iona, a popular Hawaiian musician, filled the apartment of D2. At the table, Lana and Lea were playing a game of Go Fish. The little girl currently had quite a few more matches than her mother. In the kitchen, Aaron was cooking baked mahi mahi, a recipe he had learned from his grandmother. Lana was enjoying a break from the cooking.

The telephone rang, and Aaron stepped away from his prep work, to answer it.

“Hello. Crenshaw residence,” he said into the phone.

“This is Jean Harper. Is Lana available, please?”

“Hold one moment, please.” The teen placed a hand over the mouth piece of the phone, and addressed his mother. “It's for you, Mom. Mrs. Harper.”

Putting down her cards on the table, Lana pushed her chair away from the table. Reaching her son, she took the phone from him, as the teen went back preparing dinner.

“Hi, Jean. How are things there in Hawaii?”

“Same as usual. How's New Zealand?”

“We're settling in. Found a church that we like here and Vince is enjoying his new job.”

“How's the new book coming along?”

“Steadily,” Lana replied. She had written quite a bit before Vince and Lea got home the previous evening even with taking a break to hear about Aaron's trip.

“Glad to hear it. Sales on Coping At Home are still steady. Did you get the pack of letters I forwarded to you?”

“They came yesterday.”

“Good. The main reason I'm calling though is to run something by you. I've been doing some talking to store owners more in your neck of the woods. Thought this might be a good opportunity for you to get out and greet some fans who haven't had a chance to meet you. If you're up for it, I have two stores willing to hold a book signing. One would be in Sydney on February 1st, and the second in Christchurch the following day. Are you interested?”

“Sure. Sounds like a good opportunity to promote the book,” Lana replied, even though questions on how to handle it had already started going through her head. Not only would she need to figure out transportation for both events, there was also the issue of keeping Jean from knowing that they weren't exactly living on the mainland.

“I was hoping you would say that. I'll give the two stores a call and close the deals today then. I'll be in touch with all the details in the next two days; tomorrow if I can get things accomplished that fast. I'll have to book flights and hotel rooms for myself. Speaking of which, do you need me to arrange a flight from Christchurch to Sydney for you?”

“No. Don't worry about it. Just tell me what time you need me in Sydney and I'll make my own arrangements,” Lana told her. “Could use a ride from the airport to the bookstore and back though.”

“I'll have that covered,” Jean told her. “I'm making a note of it now.”

Lana continued the conversation with Jean for a few more minutes, before hanging up and returning to the game of Go Fish. The upcoming book signings were an exciting prospect and she couldn't wait to break the news to Vince. She also knew her husband would help her figure out answers to all the questions that were going through her mind.]]> Icarus1982 2010-04-12T01:59:03-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2981&th=116#msg_2981 In the pilot's seat of Thunderbird 4, Vince listened patiently as Gordon went through some instructions as they waited for John. The copper-haired aquanaut was standing behind him, one arm resting on the chair back as he leaned over Vince's shoulder. The plan was for Vince to pilot Thunderbird 4 out to Mateo and back. It was the first time the former Navy Seal would be behind the controls of the little sub outside the simulator. Though his performance had improved greatly from his first time in the simulator, the blonde was a bit nervous at the prospect of piloting the yellow sub. ~And apparently I’m not the only one,~ he thought, as he listened patiently to Gordon tell him things he had told him before.

“Sorry to keep you guys waiting,” John said as he entered the cockpit of the sub.

“Not a problem,” Gordon said, glancing in John's direction. He smiled as he saw what John was carrying with him. “Was just going over a few last minute things.”

Hearing the amusement in Gordon's voice, Vince shifted in the seat enough so that he could see John. He saw that the blonde Tracy had brought scuba gear with him. “And just what is that for?” Vince asked.

“Well, seeing as you're piloting Four out to Mateo, I figured it would be best to be prepared just in case you sink her for real.”

“I'm never going to live that down, am I?” Vince said, though he had a smile himself, taking the comment good-naturedly, as he had the other jokes at his expense since the 'fatal' simulator experience. He cast a questioning glance over at Gordon who was grinning.

“Probably not,” the two Tracys said in unison.

Vince just shook his head. “Why don't we get this trip started,” he suggested, turning to face the controls again.

Gordon and John got themselves settled in the two other seats in the cockpit and strapped themselves in. Vince radioed for clearance to leave. Receiving clearance from Scott, Vince fired the hover jets on the craft and maneuvered Thunderbird 4 out of the hangar and down the runway normally used by Thunderbird 2. Reaching the end, the sub made its way down the lowered end of the runway and slipped beneath the surface. Gordon refrained from making any comment as Vince pointed the yellow submersible toward Mateo.

With a little coaching from Gordon, Vince piloted the sub away from Tracy Island and toward Mateo. Without incident Thunderbird 4 reached the smaller island and was docked inside the hangar built there.

“There you go. No scuba gear necessary,” Vince commented as he powered down the submersible.

“We've still got the return trip,” Gordon quipped, before John had a chance to make any comment.

“Keep it up and I might sink her on purpose,” the older man told him as they stood from their seats.

“Got it,” came the aquanaut's reply. He still wasn't sure how far he could push Vince's sense of humor sometimes and he figured now wasn't the time to find out. While Gordon knew the older man wouldn't actually sink the sub on purpose he was convinced Vince would find a way to get even.

Gordon and Vince followed John into the small hangar where it TB4 was now docked. Vince glanced around the small area though there wasn't much to see. Without a word, he followed the blonde headed Tracy across the cavern to a set of stairs leading upwards, trying not to think about the fact that like the hangars back on the island, they were underground.

~Get a grip,~Vince chided himself as a shiver went up his spine. ~They would have made sure the place was perfectly sound when the built these caverns.~

“We'll give you a tour of the facility before we take the fuel tanker to the island,” John said as he led the small group up the steps.

“Good. I've heard people mention Mateo on the island. I’ve been looking forward to getting to see the place first hand.”

“Well, you didn't have to wait as long as some of the recruits. Not to mention that Dad thought this would be a good opportunity for you to see the routine for the fuel run and get some experience with the VTOL engines for real. Scott said you've been doing well with the simulator.”

“Yeah. Piloting air craft comes more naturally to me than piloting submarines,” Vince said, casting a glance back over his shoulder at Gordon.

Gordon held his hands up in mock surrender, indicating that he wasn't going to touch the comment. ~I'll let him cool down a little, first,~ the aquanaut thought.

As they made their way through the complex John told Vince much of the same information Scott had given the other recruits a few months earlier, answering questions as they came up.

“And these are the medical facilities here,” John said as the three of them stepped into the room off of the temporary quarters.

“Not one of the most impressive things I've seen since coming to the island,” Vince commented.

“Yeah,” Gordon said, standing on Vince's left. “Scott and I were going to mention the fact that this place could use some renovations.” He leaned forward slightly to look around Vince. “Maybe that's something you could bring up to Mom when she gets back?”

John nodded. “I can do that. We leave it to you and you'll probably forget again.”

“I've got a lot of things on my mind.”

“Sure you do,” the older Tracy said. “Well, now that you've seen most of the complex, how about I show you what you get to fly back to the island now?” he said addressing Vince.

“Just lead the way,” Vince replied.

While the other two headed to the fuel tanker's berth, Gordon hung behind. He'd run the necessary diagnostics while they made the fuel run.

Fuel Run by icarus1982 and starrynebula]]> starrynebula 2010-04-11T23:43:01-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2980&th=116#msg_2980 Wednesday January 3rd, The Cliff House, a little after dawn...

Luke leaned back in the lounge chair and propped his feet up on the balcony railing. The sky was lightening in the distance and around him, the birds were slowly waking. At his feet, Rommel groaned and rolled over. Luke chuckled and rubbed the dog’s belly with one foot. “Hard to believe we were freezing our butts off less than a week ago, hey mutt?” he said quietly. The dog merely rolled over more so his master could continue. He closed his eyes and breathed in the scent of the frangipani. It’s good to be back where I belong. Now if I could only get my body clock back to normal. Dawn is never a good time to be awake.

He opened them again as he heard movement off to the side and the lights popped on in Will’s apartment. I think I’ll take Will up on his offer to hang out in the bay today. I’m tired of all the fussing. I came here to get away from all that! The meals and stuff are great until I get my own supplies in, but the hovering can stop.

He nudged Rommel. “C’mon boy, let’s get some breakfast. Then you and I are going down to the beach and do some work.” They went inside and Luke hit the button on his coffee machine. A few moments later, he held a steaming cup in his hand. Not bothering to let it cool, he sipped (and burned his tongue in the process) as he nosed through the freezer. Spying a glass dish, he grinned and popped it in the microwave. As he waited for the egg casserole to heat up, he wandered back to the living room. He sat down on the couch and continued drinking his coffee. Spying a picture from Josh on the table, he smiled, then it slowly faded as he thought back of the conversation on the beach yesterday.

I never in a million years would have thought Dom was bi. Never. He still seems so broken up over his divorce. As to his feelings for me...Luke sighed. I can’t believe it. I’d like to but...He’s under so much stress at the moment, he must just be seeing things that aren’t there. He’s one of my best friends here. Do I feel more than friendship?

Luke’s thoughts wandered back to those early days in the hospital after he’d been shot. Most of that time was a hazy blur, but he clearly remembered a point where he’d woken up to find Dom at his side, gripping his hand tightly. He hadn’t really thought much about it at the time, Elise had been there as well, but now...

He’s gorgeous. I wasn’t kidding when I told him that. But how can I know if he really feels that way or if it’s just a by product of all that’s happened? I wish Anna were here. The chiming of the microwave interrupted his thoughts and he went to get his breakfast. His attention wasn’t on eating however, but still on Dominic. I’m already in love with Josh. And it would be oh so easy to fall for Dom, but I can’t. Not until we can talk, really talk and get to the bottom of this whole situation.

Rommel nudged his leg, demanding his master’s attention. Luke looked down and smiled. “Feeling neglected, are we?” He reached down and scratched his dog’s ears. “Well we can’t have that.” He stood and put his dishes away, then pulled on his sneakers. He grabbed a backpack and threw a water bottle and a chocolate bar in. Pulling on his Rockies cap, he turned back to his dog.

“C’mon, Rom, let’s hit the beach for a walk before work.” As they walked into the lift, his thoughts turned back to Dom. And maybe the fresh air will do me some good, too.
]]> Lillehafrue 2010-04-11T13:51:04-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2973&th=116#msg_2973 January 22, 2069, noon, Paris, France (midnight, Tracy Island)

The car pulled up before a modern set of condominiums. Brains glanced at his watch. “I hope Professor Borrender will be available for lunch today.”

“And I hope he doesn't think he has to provide it for us,” Tin-Tin said as the driver handed her out of the car. “This is to be our treat.” She turned to the driver and gave him instructions about when to return.

“He did say he had something new he wanted to show me.” Brains offered his arm, and the pair walked into the well-appointed lobby. “Looks like he decided that it was time to live in something modern instead of the old place he had in Bern.”

“It's lovely.” Tin-Tin looked around, taking in some of the more esoteric architectural details. “They keep it very clean.”

“Hm.” Brains frowned as they entered the elevator. “That may be a problem.”

“Why?”

Brains said, “Seventh floor.” The lift immediately rose. “Professor Borrender isn't known for being very neat.”

“Oh, dear.”

xxx

“Come in, come in!” the old man called, waving the two younger people into his condo. He closed the door behind him, and hurried to move a short stack of books from one of the comfortable chairs. “Please, Fraulein Kyrano, sit here.” The books joined another stack in the corner, by the televid. He then gathered up a pile of data padds that were scattered across the sofa. “And you, my young friend, sit here.”

When he had disposed of the padds—by tucking them into an almost dangerously full closet—he rubbed his hands together. “Now, can I get you something to drink?” He wagged a finger at Brains. “I don't have the ingredients to make you one of your martinis, Hiram, but I do have a good beer, a bottle or two of wine, and some soft drinks.”

“Oh, we couldn't possibly,” Tin-Tin said with a soft smile. “Breakfast was so very filling...”

“Ah, I see,” Borrender nodded vigorously. “We should save some room for luncheon in any case.”

“Yes,” Brains said, smiling. “We'd like to take you out for lunch, if that's all right with you.”

“Ja, ja, I think I would like that.” The older man glanced around the room. “Sometimes I forget what the world outside is like, though on cold days it's better to stay home and keep warm.”

There was a moment of silence then Brains asked, “What made you move to Paris, Professor? And why did you leave that big old place you had in Bern for...” His voice trailed off, and helplessly waved a hand, “... this?”

“Oh, that old place was too hard to keep up,” Borrender said. “I was always losing things. So I decided to downsize. As for the move to Paris, well...” He tipped a wink at Tin-Tin. “Das Mädchen here are much prettier, and I have access to one of the best laboratory facilities in Europe. It is also easier for Sir Jeremy Hodge to visit and help me with my work. He has an apartment here, you know.” He shrugged, holding up his hands. “What more could I want?”

Tin-Tin decided to change the subject. “What are you working on now, Professor?”

“Ach, ja!” A broad smile spread across his face. “Hiram tells me you are yourself an engineer, nicht war?”

She inclined her head gracefully. “I am, Professor.”

“Then you will understand what I am trying to do.”

He got up and beckoned them to follow. The condo had two bedrooms, and the second one was dedicated to his workspace. It was less cluttered than the living room, but only marginally so. They followed him to a long table he had set up. “Of course, I cannot work on this in the research facility; the owners would think it below them. To them it is a passing fancy or perhaps a hobby. But that lovely girl, Lady Penelope, brought me a most interesting problem some time ago, and asked if I could duplicate the effects in a way that would bypass the original methods.”

There were several cans lined up on the table. Brains squinted at them. “Beans?” He looked thoughtful for a moment, then his face cleared. “I think I know what this is. Tin-Tin, do you remember Mr. Tuttle and Lady Penelope's visit to him?” He was being circumspect; though Sir Jeremy was a member of International Rescue, Professor Borrender was not.

“Yes! I do remember!” Tin-Tin picked up one of the cans. “This couldn't possibly be...”

Brains nodded as they said in unison, “Ma Tuttle's beans!”

“Ja, ja, it is the beans,” Borrender said, nodding vigorously. “Lady Penelope assured me that these beans had explosive properties. I thought she was joking until she demonstrated it for me one day.” He shook his grizzled head. “I am trying to figure out exactly what it is that makes the explosion. Is it the spices? The beans themselves? The method of canning? Mrs. Tuttle refused to give out her recipe and its secrets, so now I must try and discover them for myself.” He chuckled as he swept a hand toward the cans. “I am lucky that Lady Penelope's chauffeur was able to procure these samples for me. I do not think the old woman would have let her Ladyship take any home.”

The two engineers glanced at each other. Brains smiled, while Tin-Tin stifled a giggle. “That's Parker for you,” Brains said. “He's very good at, ah, procuring things.”

“What progress have you made?” Tin-Tin was determined to treat this as a legitimate line of inquiry—which for the professor and for Penelope, it indubitably was.

Borrender sighed. “Not much. I have been having great difficulty in reproducing the exact conditions under which the beans are cooked and canned. Most people who can their own foods use glass and pressure. Mrs. Tuttle has managed to use a lightweight metal. I have found no historical references to this at all.”

“Perhaps we could ask Mrs. Tracy,” Tin-Tin suggested. “She might know of the method used.”

“Or know where to find a description,” Brains added. He glanced at Tin-Tin. “Tin-Tin's father is a chef; he might have some insight, too.”

Borrender nodded. “It seems that perhaps this is not a job for a scientist, but for a cook.” He glanced at his watch. “Speaking of cooks, where would you like to go for luncheon? I can recommend a good German restaurant...”

The conversation turned to cuisine, but Tin-Tin studied the cans for a long moment, wondering if it would be safe to take one or two of them back home with her. She decided against it, and resolved to ask Parker if he could provide another can or two for their own analysis.]]> Tikatu 2010-03-27T18:35:51-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2972&th=116#msg_2972 Tuesday, January 22, 2069, 5 a.m., NH (10 p.m. same day, Tracy Island)

Jeff rolled over, his mind barely conscious, his arm reaching for the warm body next to his in the bed. It took a few uncoordinated, unsuccessful grabs for him to realize that the portion of the bed beside him was empty. That realization brought him slowly awake; he touched the bedside lamp and squinted at the rumpled, thrown back covers. A quick glance at the clock showed him that the sun was far from rising. With a heavy sigh, he scrubbed his face with both hands and shoved his own blankets aside, padding off barefoot in search of his wife.

A quick check in the bathroom disclosed that she wasn't enjoying a soothing soak in the hot tub. He shuffled out to the main living area, intending to head for the kitchen.

He didn't have to. There, standing before the window, looking out at the night sky, was the soft, pale-limned silhouette of his wife. She was draped in the long embroidered robe that she loved so well; it was open at the front, revealing her shapely legs and bare feet as well as the short, sheer chemise she had worn to bed. Her hands were clasped around a cup, steam rising from its depths. The light aroma of orange and spice wafted his way. Herbal tea, he realized, his mind's catalog automatically bringing recognition to the fore. His body stirred at the sight of her, and he moved without thought in her direction.

He must have made a sound, for she turned to look at him. Starlight on her face enabled him to see her weary smile before she returned to her contemplations.

“Ah'm sorry if Ah woke you,” she said as he came up behind her.

“You didn't,” he replied, sliding his arms around her waist and kissing the top of her head. Her hair was damp and stuck up at odd angles; she smelled of shampoo and perspiration. “I reached for you and you weren't there.” He set is own gaze to follow hers. “What's going on? Didn't I wear you out today?”

He could feel the muscles in her face move as she smiled. “You'd think Ah'd be dead to the world with all the skiin' we did today, wouldn't you? Then the ice skatin' an' the sleigh ride?” She leaned back a bit, resting her head on his bare chest. “You did wear me out, suh. Ah was sound asleep when...” She drew in a large breath and sighed. “Ah just suddenly woke up, all covered with sweat. Mah sheets are probably still damp.”

He frowned a little. “Not that I noticed.” Lowering his head a little, he rubbed his stubbled cheek over hers. “How long have you been up?”

She shrugged. “Ah dunno. Ah jus' couldn't get back t' sleep, an' Ah didn't want to wake you. So, Ah thought Ah'd have some tea, see if it'd help.”

“I see.” He slid his hand up, surreptitiously feeling her forehead as he smoothed her damp hair back.

“Ah'm not fevered, if'n that's what yoah worried about,” she told him. “Ah already checked.”

He smiled at her perceptiveness. “You know a parent's instinct never quits.”

“Noah does a husband's, it seems.”

They stood silent together for a few moments. His hands ghosted over her form. Her skin was chilled and the gooseflesh he encountered wasn't raised by his touch. “So, any ideas about what brought this on?”

She shook her head slowly, her hair brushing soft against his neck and collarbone. Her shoulders lifted and fell with another deep sigh. She sipped more of the tea, the steam long gone. One sip, two, and she let her arm drop. The lukewarm liquid sloshed in the cup; a few fragrant drops fell on his foot.

“Ah've had enough of this,” she said. “It's no good cold.”

“Let me take it.” He slid his hand down her arm, encouraging the elbow to bend, taking the cup from her fingers. He was loath to leave her, and so reached out for a nearby table and left her drink there. When he straightened, he found they were now face to face. Her eyes, shadowed by the starlight behind her, still glimmered as she raised her mouth to his. They kissed; her mouth held the tand of orange and spice. He couldn't help himself; he cupped her face in his hands and deepened the kiss, conveying the urgent hunger that swept over him.

“Come back to bed with me, love,” he whispered, his voice husky with desire.

She dipped her head, a single, solemn nod, and reached up to run her hands through his hair. They slid around his neck, then down, trailing warm fingers over broad shoulders. He caught one hand with his; their fingers entwined and he drew her to their bed to satisfy both his ardent yearning and hers. ]]> Tikatu 2010-03-25T02:54:10-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2965&th=116#msg_2965
Tuesday, Jan. 22, after dinner . . .

“I know you miss him, and at some point you’re going to want pictures of him to remember him by.”

It seemed like such a long time ago since Jordan had said those words. In reality it was only about four months ago. She had known then that he was right, she just hadn't seen that time coming any time soon.
Now she was sitting on the couch looking at the small photo album that her brother had put Nathan's pictures in.

She glanced up from the photo album, to the entertainment center in front of her. On top, the baby shoe she had taken before leaving the city now sat next to the signed fire helmet. She wasn't sure what had possessed her to suddenly dig the things out of the bottom drawer of the vanity but she had. Her unfinished dinner still sat on the table.

Cassie thought about the email she had sent to Dr. Lindon the other day, telling the psychiatrist about how she had been feeling lately. About how her thoughts revolving around Nathan had gone from what she was missing with him to wondering what he would've done had he had a chance. It didn't seem like much but somehow, she thought it was significant. She also recalled what she had written about Josh.

My one neighbor has a little boy who is about the same age that Nathan would have been. When I first met them, it was hard being around the boy and his father. It just reminded me of my little boy and what I was missing. I can't say everything is better as my neighbor and I still have some awkward moments from time to time but there is a difference. I don't think about how I could avoid them. In fact, I actually enjoying spending time with both of them. The little boy has even taken to calling me 'Auntie Cass' and I've got to admit, I like the being called that.

She had ended that email with the line, 'perhaps its time I stopped dwelling on what I've lost and remember what I gained in the short time I had with Nathan'. Still, now that she had the photo album out and in front of her, finding the courage to open it was proving to be difficult.

Taking a deep breath, and letting it out slowly, the dark-haired woman tried to calm herself. While she had been digging the photo album out, she had been so sure this was what she wanted to do. ~I think I'm already past having second thoughts about this. Maybe fourth or fifth thoughts.~

She picked the dark blue book up in both hands, held it a few minutes, and then placed it back on the coffee table. Getting to her feet, she walked into the kitchen and stood staring at the unfinished dinner still there. Eating was the last thing on her mind so instead she picked the plate up and went to the trash can.

Just as Cassie was finishing cleaning up her abandoned dinner, the door chime sounded. She headed for the door and opened it. “Scott?” she said, unable to keep the surprise of seeing him there completely out of her voice. Though he had been to her apartment before, he had never stopped by unexpectedly. “Is everything okay?”

“Yes. Sorry, I didn't think me showing up would be such a surprise.”

“It's just that I wasn't expecting anyone. Please, come in,” she added, stepping aside so he could come into the apartment. “Can I get you something to drink – ice tea, water, milk soda.”

“Soda would be fine,” Scott replied stepping into the apartment.

“Please, have a seat,” Cassie told him, waving a hand toward the couch as she headed for the refrigerator. “What brought you up here anyway?”

“Wanted to get away from my siblings for awhile.”

Cassie nodded despite the fact that Scott couldn't see the gesture. “What flavor? I've got grape, cola, ginger ale, and orange.”

“Cola will be fine.”

Cassie grabbed a can of cola and ginger ale, filled two glasses with ice, and headed for the living room. She placed the items on the coffee table and took a seat on the couch.

“Did I interrupt something?”

Scott nodded toward the photo album still sitting out, as he opened the can of soda and poured it into the glass.

“Not really. Haven't been able to get the courage to actually open it. I thought I was ready but I'm having second thoughts now.”

“Second thoughts about what?” Scott asked

“Before I left New York, my brother went with me to gather photos from my old apartment. Jordan went through the album containing pictures of Nathan and picked out ones for me. He even bought and put the pictures in that album. When I moved in I packed the album and other things that belonged to my son away. I dug them out tonight but now I can't seem to find the courage to open that book,” she said waving a hand toward the book. “Guess it sounds kind of silly,” she said, feeling her cheeks grow warm as she glanced down at the floor.

“Not at all. I can't say I know what you've gone through with losing your son but I know it couldn't have been easy. Maybe looking through the album wasn't something you were supposed to do alone.”

“Yeah, I thought of dropping in on someone but the two I would feel comfortable going to are dealing with their own issues right now.”

Scott nodded, knowing who she was talking about without her saying names. “Well I'm here. That is, if you don't mind sharing the pictures with me.”

Cassie paused. It seemed like she had been spending more and more time with the Thunderbird 1 pilot lately, but looking through a photo album with him had never crossed her mind. It just hadn't seemed like something that would interest him. Now, that he had made the offer though, something about it seemed right.

Cassie leaned forward and pulled the album closer to the edge of the coffee table. Taking a deep breath once again, she reached out and grasped the cover of the album. Slowly, she opened it, revealing pictures that had been taking at the hospital shortly after Nathan had been born, one of which showed her holding the little boy and all four of her brothers gathered around her.

Cassie slowly flipped through the pages, finding herself telling stories that went along with the pictures occasionally. At times, she'd stop in mid-sentence as the emotion would overcome her voice. In appropriate places, Scott made comments while others times he remained silent. He did notice that her one brother seemed to be in more pictures than the others. As it wasn't one of the triplets, Scott knew it was her younger brother without asking. If he hadn't already known it, looking through the album would have told him how close the two siblings were.

Turning the page again, pictures of Nathan's first birthday came up. Cassie scanned over the photos, memories that went along with that day surfacing. On one of the pictures, a date caught her eye – 02-22-2067.

~Nathan would have turned three next month, ~ Cassie realized. Reaching up, she wiped away a couple of threatening tears.

“Cass, you okay?”

“Yeah. Fine,” she replied, reaching out to close the book. “I think I've seen all the pictures I can stand tonight.” Spotting his empty glass she decided to try changing the subject. “Can I get you anything else?” she asked, waving a hand toward the glass.

“No, thank-you.”

Cassie picked up both his glass and her own and got to her feet. “I'm just going to set these in the kitchen.”

Not saying anything, Scott got to his feet and followed her. Cassie went over to the sink, and took longer than necessary rinsing out the glasses. Watching her, Scott leaned against the end of the counter, thinking over what to say.

“His birthday is coming up soon isn't it?” Scott finally asked. He saw Cassie nod, but she didn't turn to face him. “Perhaps you should go home for it. Maybe visit his grave.” Scott paused for a moment. When she didn't turn to face him or say anything he continued. “When we lose someone unexpectedly it takes awhile before we're really ready to say good-bye. Even then, it’s good to have a place to feel close to them.”

“Are you a psychologist along with everything else?” Cassie asked finally breaking her silence.

“No. Just someone who’s lost someone unexpectedly, and an older brother to seven siblings now. Not to mention, going to my mother's grave and talking to her, reminds me of how much she is still apart of my life. Part of who I am. Just like your son will always be a part of you.”

Cassie finally turned away from the sink. Scott noticed the thoughtful expression on her face and chose to remain silent for the moment.

“I think I'll talk the idea over with Dr. Lindon. Thanks for the suggestion and for listening.”

“Anytime.”

Scott glanced at his watch and frowned.

“Shoot. I’ve got to get going,” he said. “I’m meeting Virg for a chess match in five.”

Cassie nodded and stepped forward, to lead him to the door. Scott smiled at her, and then reached out to draw her into a hug. Cassie stilled for a moment, before she relaxed into the embrace. Scott gave her a squeeze and drew back.

“I’m here for you any time you need, Cass,” he said.

“Thank you, Scott,” Cassie said.

Scott gave her a warm smile before crossing the threshold and out of the apartment.

“I’ll catch you later,” he said.

“Goodbye, Scott.”

Scott waited until the apartment door closed before making his way back down to the monorail. He rode across to the Villa with his hands in his pockets, leaning his back against the glass. This has got to be tough for her, he thought. ~I can’t imagine what it would be like to lose a child. And what’s worse, his birthday is coming up. I wish I could do something. I guess I can just be there for her.~. The monorail came to a stop, and Scott walked towards the lounge. He couldn’t help feeling gratified that Cassie had opened up to him. He resolved to be there for her as much as she would allow, and smiled.


Thanks to ArtisticRainey for her help writing the ending of this!]]> starrynebula 2010-03-23T01:31:04-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2964&th=116#msg_2964 Tuesday January 22nd, a little before 5 pm . . .

“Are you coming with us, Mommy?” Lea asked as Lana braided her daughter's hair. Lana didn't want it getting in the girl's way during her first art class.

“No, sweetie. I'm gonna stay home and do some writing. You can tell me all about your first class while you get ready for bed tonight. I do plan on coming down to see you and your father off though.”

“Good!”

“All done,” Lana said, finishing the braid off with an elastic.

“Daddy, I'm ready!”

“Great,” Vince replied from where he was rinsing his plate from the quick dinner he had eaten. “Then why don't we get going,” he added, setting the plate down and turning from the sink. “Don't want my Poppet to be late for her first class.”

A few moments later the three of them were in the lift, heading down. When the doors opened on the first floor, Lea preceded her parents out of the lift.

“Can I check the mail?” she asked, without looking back.

“Go ahead,” Vince said with a smile, having anticipated it. Like a lot of little kids, Lea loved checking for mail even though she seldom got anything addressed to herself.

The little girl hurried to the mailboxes but then had to wait for Vince to catch up. Coming up behind her, he gave his daughter a boost so she could reach the family's mailbox. There were two white envelopes and a manila envelope in their space. The little girl grabbed the three items and then her father placed her down on the floor.

“I got something!” she exclaimed after looking at the three envelopes. She held the prize up in one hand as she handed the other two items out to her mother who had joined them.

“Who's it from, sweetie?” Lana asked as she looked at the other two envelopes. One was a letter from Vince's parents and the manila envelope was from her publicist, Jean.

“Grandma and Grandpa,” Lea replied. As the little girl referred to Lana's parents and Nannie and Pop-pop, Lana knew she was referring to Vince's parents.

~Leave it to May to think of sending something just to Lea,~ Lana thought before addressing her daughter. “Well, why don't you let me hold onto it for now. We can read it together at bedtime.”

“Okay,” the little blonde replied, sounding a little disappointed. She slowly handed the envelope over and the little group headed for the airstrip.

Lana entertained her daughter while Vince did preflight checks. She then watched as the plane headed down the runway and took into the air. She watched the craft until it was out of sight and then headed back to the apartment.

Upon entering, Lana took the letter from her in-laws into the bedroom. She placed it on top of the vanity so she and Vince could read it together. She then headed out to the little workstation that Vince had set up in the living area of the apartment with the other envelope. She turned on her laptop and while it was loading opened the other envelope. Inside she found a handful of letters. Looking at them she saw that they were all addressed to Chase Rivers.

While a lot of her fans tended to send correspondence via email, there were still some that chose to write her actual letters. To keep her address secret, such mail had always been sent to her publicist who then made sure she got it. Despite the move overseas, that practice had not changed.

As much as she enjoyed hearing from her fans, she also knew that Lea liked to read the letters with her. Lana found sharing them more pleasant than reading them by herself and it also gave her a chance to help her daughter with her reading. She placed the small stack of letters off to the side and turned her attention to her computer. With any luck she could take advantage of the quiet and get some work done on her next novel.]]> Icarus1982 2010-03-22T19:32:50-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2963&th=116#msg_2963 Alysha Dale watched the young man, who had introduced himself a Gordon Tracy, walk away. This wasn't the first time that she had someone from a trip ask for her phone number. However, she had to admit, this was the first time that she found any interest in spending time with the person.

~He certainly is cute,~ she thought, finally looking away from his retreating figure and down at her clipboard and the instant messenger and email address he had written down for her. ~Which is definitely a different tactic,~ she told herself. The guys usually asked for her number but never offered their own.

Gordon had come off as polite and charming. The brief conversation she had with him led her to believe he could be a fun person to spend time with. Still, Alysha had her doubts, a few which revolved around the young man's name.

The name Tracy was well known even in her small home village of Akaroa. She was suspicious enough to wonder if he was really who he said he was, or some guy dropping a name, hoping it would score him a date.

“That guy giving you a hard time, Sunshine?”

Alysha turned to look back in the direction of the boat. Her father, Anthony Dale, walked along the dock in her direction.

“Nothing I can't handle,” she told him with a shrug of her shoulders.

Alysha had always had a close relationship with her father. She had been about five years old when she started tagging along with him at work. Like him, she loved not only the water but just being outdoors. For as long as she could remember, her goal had been to join her grandfather and father with the family business. The only stipulation they had ever imposed on her was that, if she wanted to be a part of the business, then she had to graduate from a university with a degree that was somehow relevant to their work. Due to her interest in nature and the environment they shared with so many creatures, she had chosen a major in biological sciences along with a minor in business.

“Good,” he told her, patting her shoulder. “I want to check on things inside. Want to help Jon in making sure the boat's ready for the next cruise?”

“Sure, Dad,” Alysha replied. As Anthony headed toward the main building, she turned and headed back to the boat.

~When I get my regular duties done today, I think I'll do a little research,~ she thought to herself. If she checked the reservation records she could at least verify that there was indeed a Gordon Tracy on the noon cruise today. If that checked out, then she would consider whether she wanted to take the initiative to contact the guy or not. ~Who knows; he could turn out to be a nice guy and we might even have some common interests. Everyone keeps telling me I should start dating again. Perhaps its time I take their advice,~ she thought, as she stepped onto the vessel.]]> Icarus1982 2010-03-22T19:25:25-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2961&th=116#msg_2961 About 2:15pm

“That was awesome!” Aaron exclaimed as he climbed out of the water and back onto the boat.

“I'm glad you enjoyed yourself,” Kristin, the photographer for the trip, told him as she stood nearby in case any of the guests needed assistance.

“Definitely one Christmas present I'll never forget. I'll have to thank Alex and Tyler again when I get home,” Gordon commented, as he climbed the ladder behind Aaron.

“Thanks for inviting me along, Coach.”

“You're welcome,” Gordon replied as the two of them moved away from the ladder to allow those behind them to climb on board. “This was definitely one of those things that experiencing it with someone else makes it all that much better.”

The two of them headed for the cabin of the catamaran to get something to drink as they waited for the the trip back in to begin.

Around 3pm
After showering and dressing, Aaron headed back outside in search of Gordon. His coach had showered quickly and yelled to Aaron that he'd meet him outside.

~He's probably taking another shot at getting Alysha's phone number,~ Aaron thought as he stepped out the front door of the main building. Gordon had spent most of the trip back in chatting with the brown-haired guide, who, though she had been polite, hadn't seemed all that interested in Gordon.

As Aaron looked around the premises, he sure enough spotted Gordon talking with the brunette. He debated whether he should go join him or wait elsewhere. The teen decided to head for the car and wait there.

As he walked in that direction, he glanced over at Gordon and Alysha trying to decide if his coach was having any better luck this time around. He noticed Gordon writing something down, using the clipboard and paper the guide had with her.

Aaron didn't have to wait long by the car before Gordon joined him.

“So did you get her number, Coach?” the teen asked.

“No,” Gordon replied, as he hit the button to unlock the car doors. “However, she did agree to exchange internet chat names, so there is hope,” he added, as he climbed in behind the wheel of the car. Wearing a satisfied smile, Gordon pulled the car out of the parking lot as he headed back toward Christchurch.

]]> Icarus1982 2010-03-21T21:59:37-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2960&th=116#msg_2960 A little after 1pm, Akaroa Harbor . . .
“Wow, this place is awesome,” Aaron commented as he leaned on the rail of the catamaran, taking in the view of the surrounding harbor.

“Yeah, the scenery is great,” Gordon commented absently.

Aaron glanced over at his coach to find that he wasn't even looking out at the surrounding harbor. Gordon had his back to the vessel's rail, and was looking in the direction of something much closer. Aaron turned to follow his companions gaze. He found himself looking at their guide for the trip, Alysha. The brunette was currently talking to a couple of other passengers.

“I was talking more about the natural beauty of the place.”

“Right there my friend is 'natural beauty,” Gordon said. “Give it time and you'll know exactly what I mean.”

Aaron said something under his breath that Gordon couldn't understand as he turned back around.

The two fell silent as the catamaran, skippered by Anthony Dale, continued heading out into Akaroa Harbor. So far, they hadn't come across any Hector dolphins but there was still plenty of time.

It was a ten-year-old kid who spotted one of the sea mammals first. “There's a dolphin!” the little boy called as he pointed toward one jumping out of the water.

As everyone on the vessel turned their attention in that direction, the captain came on the loudspeaker.

“Well, folks, I'll head the boat in the direction that our little scout has indicated. With any luck, the situation will be right for our swimmers to be able to join the Hector dolphins in their environment.”

As the boat got closer, they found that there were actually three dolphins in the area. As there were no calves with the dolphins, the crew of the boat made the decision that it would be a good situation to attempt a swim.

“All right, I need all of the swimmers to listen up,” Alysha called out, clapping her hands to get people's attention. “I'm going to go over the safety instructions you were given back at dock one more time before we proceed. Safety for our swimmers as well as the dolphins is our number one priority.”

Those on board the catamaran listened intently as Alysha and Jonathan, the other guide, went through the safety guidelines again.
]]> Icarus1982 2010-03-21T21:56:07-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2959&th=116#msg_2959 Tuesday, January 22, 2069, 12pm, Tracy Island

A gentle breeze was blowing in off the sea as Dominic and Luke took a stroll along the beach. Rommel was trotting along a few paces in front of them. Joshua had one hand securely placed on the soft fur of the dog’s side. Rom set the pace for the little excursion, and Dom was glad. Luke didn’t look too good.

“How’re you feeling?” he asked.

Luke smiled wearily at Dom and shrugged.

“I’m bone weary,” he answered. “Not that I really thought I would feel differently. You don’t feel top-notch after being shot in the back, straight through the lung.”

“I’ll bet,” Dom said in a voice that was strained with an attempt at normality.

The small group continued on a little further until Luke signalled that he needed to sit down. Immediately Rommel returned to his master’s side, his tall ears folding downwards and his brow pulling back.

“I’m okay, boy,” Luke said as he settled himself on a boulder.

The rock was warm from the midday sun, and Rommel sat down by Luke’s legs, his long tongue hanging out of his mouth as he gently panted. Seeing this, Joshua decided to sit by the dog’s side and stick his own pink tongue out. Luke chuckled and ruffled the little boy’s blond hair, but as he did so Rommel looked up with his head cocked to one side.

“Here,” Dominic said, and slowly reached out to pet the dog’s head.

Luke chuckled again.

“I think that’s the first time you’ve ever petted him,” he said.

Dom’s fingers relaxed as he rubbed them over Rommel’s soft fur.

“Maybe dogs aren’t so bad after all,” he said. “Or maybe I’m just making an exception for this mutt.”

Luke shifted a little and made room for Dom to sit down beside him. The rock was one of the larger boulders by the shore, brought down by volcanic activity many millennia before. Dominic sat and placed his ever-present bag in between them, pulling out some strong sunscreen. He brushed some errant sand from Joshua’s pale arms and sprayed the liquid over them. Joshua frowned.

“I don’t like it!” he complained.

“Well, you wouldn’t like melanoma either, so sit still.”

Joshua’s little brow creased.

“What’s melon-coma?”

The two men laughed, and Joshua couldn’t help but join in after a moment’s confusion.

“You’re a pistol,” Luke said to him.

“Bang, bang! Pistol!”

Joshua ran a little way out onto the beach, causing Dom to splutter with annoyance. As he saw the little boy make his hands into the shape of guns, he hung his head. Luke saw his hands tremble. He watched as the man’s demeanour changed completely, the veiled normality sloughing away like melting snow. Luke felt a pang in his chest and shifted around carefully. What is this all about? he thought, but before he had the chance to ask, Dominic began to answer.

“You know,” the dark haired man said, sniffing sharply and hiding his eyes underneath his hands, “I felt like throwing up when I found out you’d been shot,” he said, letting the bottle fall out of his hands. “I couldn’t believe it. When I heard where you’d been hit, it was even worse – all I could think about was that your heart could be damaged, and that…”

His voice trailed off as Joshua ran back over and turned his attention to Rommel. Luke signalled to the dog that it was okay to relax, and Rom allowed himself to be petted and even rolled over to give Josh access to his belly.

“I could see myself, you know, as part of the LifeFlight crew that pulled you out. I could see myself as the nurse assisting in the operation to remove the bullet, because I’ve done both in my time. Then we had the back-to-back rescues in November. When I had to body-bag fatalities, all I could see was your face on their bodies, even though I knew that you were going to recover.” Dom stood up abruptly and paced away from the rock and back again. “It’s been like that ever since.”

“I’m back now,” Luke said, stumbling over the words. He wasn’t entirely sure where this was all coming from and where it was going. What he did know, however, was that he was becoming more and more worried for his friend. “You’ve had a shock recently; you’re still mending yourself. And think about it: it’s been two months since my accident, and I’m here. I’m fine.” His mind flashed back to the memories of Roger and those words Luke had never expected to hear: ‘You died, Luke.’ He suppressed a shudder. “I’ve been really worried about you,” he continued. “From that phone call, and even just from the way you were yesterday when we met, something’s really wrong. And I don’t think it’s just because of the rescue. Something else is up. I’d like you to tell me.”

“Don’t, Luke.”

“Don’t what, Dom?”

“Don’t ask.”

“So there is something more, then.”

“Please, Luke –”

“Dom, you’ve become a great friend of mine here, and I want to help you. Just spit it out. I’m not going to drop it because it’s obviously something that’s really bothering you.”

“I don’t want to ruin that friendship!” Dom snapped, but immediately his face paled and he turned away.

Luke narrowed his eyes and raised an eyebrow.

“How could you ruin it?” he asked. “What, are you going to tell me you hate me or something?” he asked, trying to inject some mirth into the very heavy atmosphere.

“I could ruin it because I think – dammit, I think I love you, Luke!”

“What?”

“There, I said it!” Dominic said, throwing his hands up into the air. Joshua looked up from where he had been digging a hole with Rom standing by, and Dom shook his head. “I’ve said it. God damn it, I haven’t been able to get you out of my head for months! It’s been killing me. I mean, maybe it’s not love, but it’s definitely more than just friendship. I don’t know what it is!”

Luke gulped and stood up. Rommel trotted over to him. Joshua looked as if he was going to cry.

“Dom, I had no idea,” he said.

“How could you?” Dom answered, visibly deflating. “You haven’t been here. No one has any idea. I haven’t said thing-one about it.”

“I didn’t even know you…swung my way.”

Dominic reached out for his son and picked him up. Joshua buried his face in his father’s neck.

“I don’t think anyone does. I haven’t talked about it to anyone. But yes, I’m bisexual. To be honest, I haven’t really viewed myself as attracted to anyone since Josh’s mother. She burned me so bad I vowed I’d never be with anyone ever again. I didn’t even realise myself how I was starting to feel until what happened to you, and I realised I saw you as more than just…a friend.”

There was a moment between them where the only sound was the wind and the waves, and Dominic turned away.

“I’m sorry.”

“For what?”

“I guess I’ve just ruined our friendship,” he said. “I can’t say you’ll want to be around me much. It’ll be too awkward.”

“Now hold up, Dominic,” Luke said. “Look at me.”

Reluctantly Dom turned back around, his eyes shining.

“Now, I’m not going to deny that this is all coming as a big shock,” Luke said, spreading his hands in front of him. “But, and I want you to listen to me here and not disappear inside your own brain: it’s not necessarily something that’s a bad thing.”

Dominic jiggled the little boy in his arms. His eyes widened in confusion.

“What?”

“Well, have you ever looked at yourself? You’re a good looking guy. I’ve never thought about you in that way before because I never suspected that you walked on my side of the street, but…that doesn’t mean I’m going to hate you because of how you feel. And it doesn’t mean things need to be awkward. Maybe…maybe I’m happy about what you just said.”

“Huh?”

“Maybe it’s given me some food for thought. Some nice food.”

“Gah?”

Luke couldn’t help but chuckle at Dominic’s slack jaw.

“I think I can see you brains dribbling out of your ears, guy,” he said. “Come on, let’s go and grab some lunch. We can talk more later.”

“Mugh.”

On that articulate note, the small party began to walk back up along the beach.
]]> ArtisticRainey 2010-03-21T20:39:37-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2958&th=116#msg_2958 New Zealand, outside of Christchurch, after 11 am .. .

As Gordon drove the car down route 75, Aaron glanced through the pamphlet for Dale Scenic Cruises. Other than what Gordon had told him about the dolphin cruise, the teen wasn't sure what he was getting himself into. The opportunity to swim with dolphins had sounded like an adventure, though. Now, to pass some time on the hour and a half drive from the airport to Akaroa's main wharf, he decided to look through the pamphlet Gordon had gotten with his gift certificate.

“So, Coach, have you actually read this pamphlet?”

“Not really,” Gordon replied. “I looked at the important stuff – the schedule, directions, and the section labeled 'Information You Need To Know Before Arriving'. The pictures are pretty cool, too.”

Aaron smiled at the last comment. The two were quiet for a bit before Aaron spoke up again.

“It says here that Dale Scenic cruises was started thirty-nine years ago by Anthony Dale, Sr. They only had one catamaran when it first opened and they did four scenic cruises of the harbor a day. Now they have a six boat fleet: two devoted just to the swimming with dolphin trip we're going on. Two others do scenic cruises; one does lunch and dinner cruises, and the sixth boat is devoted to charters or a back-up vessel.”

“Sounds like a very enterprising family,”Gordon commented.

“Maybe I should mention the meal cruises to my Dad. He's been trying to find somewhere to take Mom for Valentine's Day.”

“Well, that's one thing I don't need to worry about this year. Other than it's my birthday, it's not going to be a special day for me. I kind of envy Virgil right now.”

“I don't see what the big deal is about Valentine's Day is anyway.”

“Give it some time, kiddo. When you find the right girl you'll get it,” Gordon said slyly.

“I plan on staying single, thank-you very much.”

“Sure,” Gordon said, dragging out the one syllable word. He remembered going through a stage like that himself, however he had been younger than Aaron when that had changed.

“The pamphlet says that in the past couple of seasons they've had successful swims with the dolphins on eighty-three percent of their trips. Sounds like we should have a fairly good chance at actually swimming with the animals, huh?”

“Yeah, it does,” Gordon said, trying not to laugh at Aaron's sudden change of the subject.

Aaron finished browsing through the pamphlet, mentioning a few other things to Gordon. After he had finished with it, he put the brochure into the glove compartment and turned his attention to the passing scenery.

Upon reaching Akaroa, Gordon didn't have much trouble finding the place; the company's name was painted on a dolphin-shaped sign which sat on top of a azure blue building. The unconventional sign and painting made the place stand out from the other businesses around it.

Gordon easily found a parking place and the two of them headed toward the building. Once inside, it didn't take them long to figure out where to go. They joined the others going on the same cruise in a room with folding chairs set up in rows. Gordon and Aaron found seats in the back.]]> Icarus1982 2010-03-20T16:27:57-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2957&th=116#msg_2957 Tuesday, Jan 22, 11:20 am, the lounge . . .

“So, we'll set the test for Friday the first,” Scott repeated, making notes as he talked. Virgil, Cassie and he had been going over schedules and trying to find a good time to for testing the dicetyline cannon. They were trying to disrupt routine training and work as little as possible. “That should give everyone time to make the necessary preparations. Do you know who all you want to be involved in this?”

“Well, I know Brains wants to be on hand to see how the cannon does out in the field,” Virgil commented. “And of course, myself and Cassie in Thunderbird 2.”

“We should also have some support personnel on the ground. I know we all want this to go well and hope the cannon puts out the fire out but in reality that might not happen. Virgil and I have discussed having the Firefly on site in case of that scenario.”

“Probably a good precaution. Callie could be on stand-by with the Firefly and personally, I'd like to be out there to see the test first hand.”

“I kind of figured you'd say that,” Virgil said, casting an 'I told you so look' in Cassie's direction.

Ignoring Virgil's commentary, Scott continued. “What about triggering the fire? Do we need anyone else helping there?”

“Well, Brains is planning on overseeing it but perhaps Will could give him a hand. He seemed to enjoy being involved in the training exercise.”

Scott nodded, adding Will's name to the list. “Okay, well I'll leave it to the two of you to plan the details of the field test but I'll let Dad know we've got a time scheduled and who will be involved. I'm sure he'll also want a briefing before the first sometime next week.”

“I'll handle that,” Virgil told him.

Scott nodded. The three wrapped up their meeting.

“So, what else did you want to discuss with me?” Cassie asked as she leaned back in the chair after Virgil had left.

“It's more of an FYI at this point. Seems the New York City legislature has proposed new fire codes for the city. Dad wanted me to give you a heads up about it because if it does pass, he wants you to oversee making whatever changes are necessary to bring the NY offices up to the codes.”

Cassie nodded. “Do we have any idea what's being proposed.”

Scott shook his head. “Not at this point. There hasn't been much in the way of details about the proposal going out, though the email from headquarters hinted that they felt it was probably going to be passed.”

“Well, I'll be ready if it does get passed.” ~I think I might also send an email to the Chief and see if he can give me anymore information.~ “Anything else?”

“Not at this time,” Scott said. “Though, do you have any plans for lunch?” Cassie shook her head. “Want to join us here and then when we're done we can head down to the hangar for your lesson. Maybe get some extra flight time in.”

“Sounds good to me,” Cassie replied.
]]> starrynebula 2010-03-20T02:00:12-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2956&th=116#msg_2956 Picking up the coffee pot, Cassie poured the coffee into a thermos. Putting the empty pot in the sink, she twisted the lid on the thermos while walking to the table. Placing it in the box with other items she was taking over to Luke’s, the dark-haired woman looked over the items.

After saying a brief hello to Luke when he had arrived back, and telling him she would bring breakfast over in the morning, Cassie had returned to her own apartment. Besides breakfast, she wanted to cook up a few easy to re-heat meals for her friend. His surprise return meant that no one had time to stock his apartment with any food.

Satisfied she had everything, Cassie picked up the box and headed for her door. Moments later she was outside Luke’s apartment waiting for him to answer the door.

Rommel trotted over and woofed at her through the screen. “Yeah, yeah, I’m coming. Hold your horses, mutt.” Luke walked into the living room. Spying Cassie he called out, “Hey, Cass, c’mon in.”

She walked through the door and Luke moved to take the box from her. “Please tell me you have coffee in there.”

“I’ve got the box,” Cassie told him, refusing to let him take it from her. “And yes, there is coffee. Do you really think I’d show up with breakfast and not bring coffee?” she told him as she walked toward the table with her burden.

“I’m not crippled, you know,” he grumbled as he sat down at the table. He yawned hugely and rubbed his hands over his face. “What time is it anyway? I’m still all screwed up. I hate crossing the IDL.”

“A little after ten,” Cassie told him, as she took the thermos and coffee cup out of the box and place both in front of Luke. “I’ve got less than an hour before I’m supposed to meet with Scott,”she told him as she continued to take things out of the box.

Luke dumped two teaspoons of sugar into the mug and took a sip. His eyes closed and he sighed in contentment. Cassie chuckled and he looked up. “What else do you have in there? I’m starving.” He glanced over at Rom. “I only brought food for the mutt here. Guess I’ll have to make a grocery list.” He shrugged and took another sip of coffee.

“One thing’s for sure. I’m not hopping on a plane again anytime soon. That flight wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be.” He finished his drink and poured another. “Meeting with Scott, huh? Flying lesson?”

Cassie shook her head. “We’re ready to field test the Dicetyline cannon and getting that set up is on the agenda. He also mentioned there was Tracy Industries business to discuss. Not sure what that’s about.”

Luke nodded. “How are the flying lessons going anyway? And what else have I missed around here?”

“Believe it or not, I’m actually doing well with the flying bit now,” Cassie told him, taking out the containers filled with the eggs, toast, bacon, and hash browns she had made for their breakfast. “Scott thinks I should be ready to try for my license by the end of next month. I’m mostly just trying to log the necessary flight hours right now.”

Having taken out everything needed for their breakfast, Cassie took out the last four containers. “I prepared a few reheat-able meals for you. Wasn’t sure what your plans were for food for the next couple of days but I figured this way if don’t want to go begging for food from your neighbors you don’t have to,” she told him as she headed to the refrigerator with them.

Luke got up and grabbed a couple of plates and some silverware from his kitchen. He carried them back out and filled them with food. He handed one to Cassie. “Here, sit.” He took a bite and grinned. “These are great, thanks! Elise brought some soup by last night too. And Will promised me some cookies from the latest batch his mom sent. I’m going to owe all of you.”

“Mr. Tracy has hired someone to take Brandon’s place,” she told him, going back to answering his previous question. Getting her own breakfast, she continued. “His name is Vince Crenshaw. He’s a former Navy SEAL. Vince and his family have the apartments below us.”

His mind registered what she had just told him. “There’s a family downstairs? Like with kids? No kidding. Dom had mentioned that Josh had a new playmate, but it never clicked. Tell me about them.”

“Josh’s new playmate is Lea. She’s five and a bundle of energy. The two of them wore me out when I had them down on the beach Sunday,” she told him, smiling at the thought of how much fun they had. “She’s a bit shy when she first meets someone but once she gets past that she’s very talkative and loves to ask questions. She even wanted to know how Dom and I were related because Josh was calling me Auntie Cass.”

Luke laughed. “Gotta love kids. One thing about being back, I’ll miss my nieces and nephew. They spent a lot of time with my while I healed up.” He grew quiet as his thoughts turned. “I’m hoping to spend some time with Dom later. We have lots of catching up to do. Emails and phone calls just aren’t the same.” He sighed. “He’s still shook up over what happened.”

“I know,” Cassie replied, her smile fading. “Unfortunately, I was away when things happened and he hasn’t really been too talkative on the subject around me. Reminds me of someone else I know,” she added, giving Luke a sidelong look.

“Ha, ha.” He looked around his apartment. “The place looks neater that I expected it to be. Have you all been taking turns keeping the dust bunnies away?”

Cassie sighed. ~Men, ~ she thought before answering his question. “Yeah, between Elise, Jenny and myself we’ve tried to keep things clean in here.” She decided to go back to the abandoned subject of their neighbors downstairs. “Anyway, the Crenshaws also have another kid. Their son Aaron has the one-bedroom apartment down there. Gordon has taken on coaching him in swimming as he has his eyes set on the competing at Worlds. I’ve done some workouts while they were training. The kid is really good.”

As they continued their breakfast, Cassie continued to fill Luke in on things that had been happening.

“Shoot! I didn’t realize so much time had passed,” Cassie said suddenly catching a glance at the clock. She stood up and started to clean up.

“Just go,” Luke told her. “You don’t want to face an angry Scott. I can clean up.”

“Thanks, Luke,” Cassie said. She picked up her coffee cup and downed the last of her coffee. “It’s great to have you back,” she added as she headed for the door.



Breakfast . . . written by lillehafrue and starynebula]]> starrynebula 2010-03-20T01:48:52-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2955&th=116#msg_2955 Tuesday, Jan.22nd, around 9:30 am . . .

“I am certain you are pleased to be going home for a few days,” Kyrano commented, glancing over the plane's controls as they headed toward Australia.

“Yes, it will be nice to see Mum and Wendy, again though I feel a bit guilty leaving right now, what with you having guests and everything,” Jenny replied, letting the knitting she was working on come to a rest in her lap.

“Do not worry about us. You have not been home since you came here in November. We will be fine for a few days. ”

Jenny nodded, happy for the reassurance. As much as she enjoyed her new job and the people on the island, she was looked forward to seeing her mother and sister again. Two months had gone by quickly, and though she kept in touch with email, it wasn't the same as seeing them face to face. She would have gladly put off the trip if the Tracys had needed her but was grateful that she didn't have to.

~And I was able to finish the booties for the baby,~ Jenny thought happily. The dark blue items were tucked into her bag. She planned on giving them to Wendy now and hang onto the jumper she was currently knitting for later.

“As much as we all appreciate having your help in the kitchen, I admit I will enjoy being more involved in meal prep for the next couple of days. I have missed it.”

“Well, then, I'm glad I can oblige you by going away for a few days,” Jenny told him. “I'm also glad Tyler and Alex were willing to keep an eye on Hiss for me. Wendy will certainly be glad not to see the snake.”

“I can imagine that a snake is a pet that would not be popular with everyone.”

“That's for sure. Still, it's nice having Hiss around. Not to mention he's quiet and when he does shed, does so in his cage not all over my apartment.”

“Nice qualities in a pet. Cleaning up cat fur all the time is not always pleasant,” Kyrano commented, thinking of his own pet.

Jenny nodded, picking up her knitting. The two fell into a comfortable silence as the flight continued.


Thanks to Tikatu for helping with Kyrano's dialogue]]> starrynebula 2010-03-20T00:58:24-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2954&th=116#msg_2954 Monday, January 21, 2069, 10 a.m., Paris, France (10 p.m. Same day, Tracy Island)

Brains covered his yawn with his hand, trying to stifle it as best he could. The nap he and Tin-Tin had taken might have been sufficient, as far as length was concerned, but his body was still running on Island time, and to him, it felt like 10 in the evening.

The car, provided by Tracy Industries' Parisian motor pool, pulled up in front of the vine-covered apartment building where Tin-Tin's grandfather and aunt lived. Brains checked the device in his ear; it had worked well for Kyrano and Lisa on their honeymoon, but he wanted to test it out for himself as they conversed.

“Reviendrez-vous ici en une heure,” Tin-Tin said to the driver he handed her out of the car. Brains let himself out on the other side, bringing with him a shopping bag.. The device translated it as, “You will return in one hour.”

“Oui, mademoiselle.” The driver touched his cap, and closed the car door as Brains joined Tin-Tin on the walk up to the house.

“Are you ready?” he asked, offering his arm.

Tin-Tin took a deep breath and nodded. “I'm ready.” She took his arm, and together they walked toward the house.

Tamea was waiting for them in the vestibule. Her eyes grew wide and she put her hands on the sides of her face. “Mon Dieu! Comment bien que vous ressemblez à votre mère!” Brains heard it as, “My God! How much you look like your mother!”

The older woman took Tin-Tin's face in her hands and kissed the girl on both cheeks. “Come in, come in!” Brains heard her say. “Come see your grandfather!”

With a bemused glance at Brains, Tin-Tin allowed herself to be led into the apartment. “Papa!” Tamea called. “She is here!” Brains followed, amused.

He stopped just inside the door. Ruth Tracy was old, and Kyrano was elderly, but compared to them, Elias Manabo looked positively ancient. The bony hands that reached out for Tin-Tin's were coverered with age spots, and the nearly bald head was practically skeletal in its appearance.

“Ma chere petite-fille!” Dr. Manabo whispered as he took Tin-Tin's hands in his own.

“Bonjour, mon grand-père,” Tin-Tin said, smiling.

Brains heard the next whisper from Dr. Manabo as, “I am so glad you came!” He made a mental note to test the translator in a crowded room; the microphone was very good at picking up the whispers and he wanted to make sure it would function as well in a noisy environment.

He was startled by the gentle touch of Tin-Tin's hand on his. She had taken a chair so she would be on the same level as her grandfather, and was in the midst of introducing them.

“Grand-père, je vous presente mon ami...” She stopped short, an expression both stricken and puzzled on her face.

Brains picked up on the problem. She can't exactly introduce me as Brains, he thought. I had better fill in my real name here.

He gave a little bow and said, “John. John Grayson. I'm very pleased to meet you, Dr. Manabo.”

Tin-Tin gave him a look of surprised delight. Dr. Manabo, still speaking French for Tamea's sake, said, “Welcome, John. I am pleased to make your acquaintance.”

“Likewise, sir.”

Tamea came out with a laden tea tray. Tin-Tin jumped up to help her, but Brains was there first. He took the burden, and placed it where Tamea told him to. She seemed surprised that he understood her when, to this moment, he hadn't said a single word in French. He decided not to say anything about the translator; it would take any conversation off into directions he'd rather it didn't go.

Tamea indicated another chair, smiling at Brains. He sat next to Tin-Tin, who gave him a grateful look. She seemed unlike herself, so ill-at -ease, that Brains thought he should take the initiative. He motioned toward the bag. “Tin-Tin, don't you have something for your grandfather and your aunt?”

“Oh, yes!” She ducked into the bag and pulled out a small book. “I brought this,” she said in French, “so that you and Aunt Tamea could know me better.”

The gift was a photo album, filled with pictures taken from Tin-Tin's life. Elias smiled, smoothed his hand over it, and opened to the first page. Brains himself was fascinated; here were pictures and moments in Tin-Tin's past that he was totally unaware of. As she explained the significance of each photo, he too became better acquainted with the woman he loved. ]]> Tikatu 2010-03-19T23:45:56-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2950&th=116#msg_2950 Virgil walked toward the basketball court in search of Scott. Since they had talked at the plane, he hadn’t seen much of his elder brother. He had searched the house and not finding him, had headed outside. The effort had finally paid off, as he saw that both Scott and Cassie were on the court. From the looks of it they were playing Around the World.
 
From the top of the key, Cassie sent the ball toward the basket. The orange sphere hit the backboard, bounced off the rim and careened across the court in Virgil’s direction. Sprinting forward, Virgil grabbed the ball as it reached the side of the court.
 
“Just a little more to the right and you'd have it,” Virgil commented.
 
“Yeah, and last time it was a little to the left. I have a feeling I'm never going to leave this spot.”
 
“Toss her the ball, and let her take another shot,” Scott said from the other side of the court. He had already made the shot from each position and was working his way back to the beginning. He had two more shots to make.
 
Cassie shook her head. “Nah. I'm conceding this game. I've had enough basketball for the day. Think I'm going to go shower and curl up with a good book. I'll catch you both tomorrow.”
 
The two Tracy brothers said a good-bye to her. Scott watched Cassie for a little while as she headed back toward the Cliff House.
 
“Earth to Scott,” Virgil called, trying to get his brother's attention.
 
“What? Did you say something, Virge?” Scott asked, turning his attention to his brother.
 
“Asked if you were up for a game of one-on-one?”
 
“Yeah, sure,” Scott told him. “You can have possession first.”
 
The two brothers started a game. They were evenly matched and possession of the ball passed from one to the other frequently. It was Virgil who managed to score first.
 
“Wonder how Dad and Mom are enjoying their trip?” Virgil commented, shadowing Scott as he dribbled the ball to half court. 

“Let's see, they're in the mountains, in a secluded cabin, with no kids. I have a feeling they're enjoying themselves quite a bit,” Scott replied. Having reached the middle of the court, the elder Tracy became a bit more serious about what he was doing. Trying to work his way past Virgil, he concentrated on making progress to the basket. “It’s going to be strange not having them around the rest of the week, though”
 
“Ha. You're not fooling me! I’ll admit, I enjoyed my two days of being in charge,” Virgil replied, pausing a bit as he snagged the ball away from his brother. “I know you’re looking forward to sitting in the big chair.”

“Yeah, well, maybe,” Scott said, jumping up to block Virgil's shot. He knocked the ball out of the air and the two brothers scrambled after it. Scott got to it first. “Still, being the one everyone depends on can get stressful.”
 
“Maybe you need to take a trip yourself then,” Virgil said as Scott took a shot at the basket. The ball flew over the younger bother’s outstretched hands. He turned and watched it fall into the basket, the score now even. “Get away and just relax, if you can remember how to do that,” he commented as he retrieved the ball.
 
“I know how to relax,” Scott told him.
 
“This from the guy who keeps avoiding high school reunions, saying he's too busy to go,” Virgil replied. “When's the last time you talked to your pals from college?

“I was talking to Bill the other day, actually. He and Jen welcomed their third child. A little girl – Emma Nicole.”
 
“That's awesome. Also sounds like a perfectly good reason to pay him a visit.”
 
“Maybe,” Scott said, stealing the ball from him. “Trying to get rid of me so you can be in charge on a rescue or something?”
 
“Course not. Besides, if a call came in, Elise would take your place in the field.”
 
Scott took a shot at the basket. “And you'd have to take orders from the little woman,” he said as he watched the ball drop through the net.
 
“Might be preferable to whom I normally take orders from out there,” Virgil commented without missing a beat. He retrieved the ball and headed back to the middle of the court.
 
“Are you saying Elise would make a better field commander than me?” Scott asked, trailing after his brother.
 
“You can take that however you like,” Virgil replied, with a smile as he started his advance to the basket.
 
Taken a bit off guard, Scott let Virgil slip past him. Though he chased after his opponent, Virgil had an easy shot at the basket and quickly scored another point. ]]> starrynebula 2010-03-16T20:57:17-00:00 http://irtnp.meianou.com/irtnpforum/index.php?t=rview&goto=2949&th=116#msg_2949 The afternoon was wearing on and clouds were wearily drifting across the blue sky. Dominic rolled his eyes and planted his hands firmly on his hips.

“No, Joshua. You may not have ice cream. If you tidy your toys away we can have some after dinner.”

“I want ice cream now!”

“No, Joshua. Tidy your toys now, please.”

“NO! I WANT ICE CREAM!”

“Joshua, go and sit on the naughty stool.”

“NO!”

“Joshua, go and sit on the naughty stool.”

“NOOOOOOOO!”

At this point the door chime sounded, and Dominic rolled his eyes again.

“For God’s sake,” he huffed. “Joshua, I’m warning you. Go and sit on the naughty stool.”

Joshua burst into a full-scale flood of tears and clung onto his father’s long cargo shorts. Dominic dragged himself over to the front door and hit the release.

He blinked.

And blinked again.

“LUUUUUUKE!”

“Hey, Dom.” Luke grinned sheepishly, running a hand through his hair. “Surprise. I guess no one told you I was coming back. Mind if I come in?”

Dominic spluttered and Joshua detached himself from his father’s leg to cling on to Luke’s.

“Geez, yeah, come in! Come in! Man, this is…geez!”

Luke grinned at the abject delight on Dominic’s face, and he figured that it was a change from the man’s more recent expressions. As Dominic leaned in close to extract his son from Luke’s leg, Luke had the chance to see up-close the Irishman’s too-pale pallor. Also he got the fresh scent of a musky soap and aftershave. There was no five o’clock shadow to darken Dom’s chin.

Dominic whirled Joshua up into the air, all thoughts of ice cream forgotten as the small boy giggled with delight.

“Where is Wom?” he asked, his grinning face suddenly crumpling in confusion.

“Rom’s having a nap at the moment,” Luke said, “but I’ll be sure to bring you so see him later – if that’s okay with your dad.”

“Of course!” Dom spluttered, looking as if he were torn between saying, ‘You should have brought the dog!’ and ‘Thank God you didn’t bring the dog!’ It creased his eyes in an endearing way.

As soon as Dominic deposited Joshua on the floor the boy was straight back over to Luke, who smiled and went to pick him up. A twinge of pain went through him and he stumbled. Joshua’s eyes filled and Dominic was by his side in a minute.

“Sit down,” he ordered.

Luke glanced up and saw that Dom’s medical face was on, and there was no point in arguing. The man was learning well from Dianne. Luke sat down carefully on the couch and Dominic wiped Joshua’s newly wet face.

“Oh, buddy, you didn’t do anything wrong,” Luke said, regaining his composure. “I just…”

“Luke was sick, remember Jak?” Dom jumped in.

Joshua nodded his head slowly.

“Yes, and he’s still getting better.”

“Like Daddy?” Joshua asked, and Dominic’s mouth fell open.

Luke raised an eyebrow and muttered, “Smart kid.”

“Yeah, like Daddy…” Dominic said. “Where he got that idea I have no clue.”

“I do,” Luke said, pinning his friend with a hard stare.

Dominic cleared his throat and knelt down on the floor to look Josh in the eye.

“Why don’t you show Luke what you were making for him, hmm?”

“But it’s not finished!”

“He might like a sneak-peek,” Dominic said, and he propelled his son towards his room.

Joshua came running back in with a large piece of paper, stumbled but regained his balance, making his face light up even more. One more good thing and that kid’ll look like a Christmas tree, Luke thought. He allowed the paper to be thrust in his lap, and he laughed with delight. It was a beach scene with two large figures holding hands and one small, evidently Joshua because of the huge glasses and the bright blond hair. All three figures were standing beside a huge sandcastle – or at least Luke assumed it was a sandcastle.

“Oh, cool man!” Luke said, urging the child to jump up beside him on the sofa. “So, this is you, right?”

“Yes! That’s me! And this Daddy,” he said, pointing to the larger figure with a mess of black hair.

“Yeah, you’ve caught him perfectly,” Luke said with a wry grin, at which Dominic rolled his eyes.

“And this you!”

It was Luke’s turn for his face to crease in confusion, and he ruffled the little boy’s hair.

“Are you sure this is me? I’m holding hands with your daddy.”

“Luuuuuuuuuke!” Joshua complained with a scowl. “Yes, YOU. You and daddy with Jak on beach – happy!”

Dominic grinned and shrugged his shoulders.

“It’s because we’re friends,” he said. “Joshua’s made a new friend with Vince’s daughter, and they hold hands all the time. That’s what friends do, right, Jak?”

“Yes!”

Luke chuckled.

“It’s a wonderful picture, Josh.”

There it was – the Christmas tree look was apparently in. Dominic fussed over the picture and asked Joshua to put it away for now. Josh looked as if he was going to object, but Luke gave him a stern look, and the boy went running to put the picture away. Dominic folded his arms at the scene.

“Hmm. I think I might want to keep you around here for a while,” he said. “I could use that kind of discipline.”

Suddenly his face went bright red, and he turned away, muttering something about tea. Dominic was all about the tea. Luke cocked his head to the side. That man has had his wits scared out of him, he thought. His butter is quickly slipping off his noodles. He sat back in the soft couch cushions, huffing out a half-contented, half-concerned breath. Joshua launched himself onto the seat beside him and began animatedly telling him about something – what, Luke couldn’t say. Maybe I can get some info out of the kid as well, he thought. Dom, don’t think I’m going to let this lie.

Post by Lillehafrue and ArtisticRainey
]]> ArtisticRainey 2010-03-15T19:56:19-00:00