Becoming Bombshell

by Chelsea

Part One

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Prologue  - - -  The Set - Up

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          My, name is Stephanie Plum, ‘Bounty Hunter from Hell’, and pissed off “sort of” girlfriend of Trenton cop Joe Morelli. He had cracked a few jokes on scene then looked into my eyes and walked over to talk to the other cops. He didn’t even talk to me after that. Never asked if I was ok! Talk about relationship issues.

          I was sitting in the police station going over my statement. Carl Costanza stood in the doorway as Detective Patrick kept asking me the same question’s over and over. He was new in town and didn’t believe me. He said he heard all about the exploit’s of ‘The Bombshell Bounty Hunter’. Apparently he heard the rumor’s that I was ‘out to get’ all the Slayers. Do I look that dumb? I don’t have a death wish.

          Finally, after three hours, of sitting in the interrogation– I mean interview room I was free to go. I walked out after getting a hug and “Glad your okay, Steph,” from Carl and a “Good to see you still going!” from his partner Big Dog. I walked to Joe’s office to tell him I was leaving and it was empty. Well, what great “sort of” boyfriend behavior. Well I can tell you, I’m sick of it!

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Chapter One  - - - -  The Decisions

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          As I exited the station I came to the realization that I had no home and no car. I saw Ranger’s Porsche sitting at the curb and he was leaning against it arm’s folded across his chest. He looked very hot, but that’s another story. As if he knew what I was thinking the corner’s of his mouth tilted up into a smile.

          “You okay, babe?” he asked.

          “Yeah, just sick of paper work. Can I get a ride?”

          “Sure. Morelli’s?”

          “No. My parent’s house. I want to see my Dad,” I said shyly.

          “Daddy’s girl?” he queried as we climbed in.

          “Totally.”

          “That’s cool.” We drove in silence per usual. We pulled up to my parent’s house and Ranger turned off the car. I didn’t know how to thank him. I turned toward’s him he was looking at me. I grabbed his neck and pulled his mouth to mine. Then I kissed him for all I was worth.

          “Thank you for everything,” I whispered against his lips.

          “Anytime, babe, anytime.”

          “Call me tomorrow?” at his nod I continued “or you can come and take me to breakfast,” I said with a smile.

          “I’ll pick you up at nine, “ I started to get out of the car. “Oh and babe? I am really glad your okay. I would miss you…if you were gone…a lot. Call if you need anything.”

          “Goodnight, Ranger,” I called climbing out of the car.

          “Night, babe,” he replied.

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          When I got to the door my Mom and Grandma were standing there waiting. They ushered me and we put cake on the table. Dad came in and sat next to me eating another piece. My Grandma was the first to break the blissful silence.

          “Wow, Steph! You did great. I heard you killed the entire lot of Slayer’s in Trenton. How many did you shoot and how much blood was there? I need the inside scoop for next time I go to Clara’s Clip and Curl.”

          “Mother!” my Mom explained.

          “No, Grandma, I didn’t shoot anyone. Sally got there before I was hurt. I’m okay, Mom, don’t worry.”

          “Well, Mother, we need to be going,” Mom said.         

          “Going?” I asked.

          “Yes. Your Grandmother and I are going to Washington D.C. to visit Elsie Hawkins. We will be back in about a week or so. Be good dear. You should apologize to Joseph and get a new job. I left the applications on the kitchen counter. Have a nice time with your father.”

          I looked over at my Dad he winked and then helped my Mother carry the bag’s out to the Buick. When he came back in he grabbed the snack food’s and we headed on out to the living room to watch television. Before he turned it on he looked at me.

          “Princess? Do you want to talk now or in the morning?” he asked. The thing about my Dad is that he understands me so much more than my Mom. I am definitely his daughter, and Valerie is more like Mom. Whenever something monumental happens in my life he always has a talk with me. When I jumped off the roof he told me “It’s okay to want to fly just try not to scare your Mother.” The day I graduated from high school he gave me a hug and said “Proud of you Princess! No matter what I will always love and support you. And I definitely always be here if you need me.” The day I found Joyce and Dickie on the dining room table he came and picked me up and said “Don’t worry he was a horse’s ass. I know you will find someone to love you soon. And he might not be what the ‘burg expected.” I loved my Dad. The only time he was ever worried is when I decided to move to L.A. but he told me to go for it. When the non- ‘burg guy I fell in love with was murdered Dad flew out and got me. Then he helped me move on. I love him so much.

          “Now would be good, Daddy.”

          “Okay. Do you want to tell me what happened?” I nodded and began to tell the tale. When I got to the part about standing outside the station he looked angry.

          “No, Dad, Ranger was great he brought me here and gave me a secure place to stay while I was hiding from the Slayers.”

          “Princess, that’s not who I’m upset with. Morelli should have been there for you! Where was he when you needed him? Why is it always this Ranger fellow helping? Why do you always run to him and not Joe?” I looked at my Dad and knew I couldn’t lie to him.

          “Because I love him Daddy,” he nodded at this.                

          “Are you in love with him?” I nodded. “Are you in love with, Joe?”

          “No, Dad, I care about him. But I don’t think it will ever work.”

          “Okay. Well you have to decide that and then tell him. Does Ranger know you love him?” I shook my head ‘no’. “Oh, I understand. You don’t think you can tell him because he isn’t the safe ‘burg choice.” I nodded some more as tear’s streaked down my face. “Sweetie, I don’t know who you fell in love with out in LA you never gave me any details. But just because you lost the only non ‘burg guy doesn’t mean you will lose this one.”

          “I know, Dad, but I’m so scared.”

          “I know, honey, but finding out if he feels the same way and having a life together is worth the risk. Don’t you think?”

          “Maybe. I’ll think about it. I have a lot of decisions to make.”

          “Okay, just remember I’m here if you want to talk again.”

          We watched television until eleven when I headed up to bed. I checked my messages. Three were from Mary-Lou demanding details and wondering if it was true that Joe snubbed me. Yeesh. One was from Lula saying, “You go white girl. I knew you could bust a cap in their asses! Call with details.” The same message was from Connie just not in ‘street talk’.  The last message was from Joe “Cupcake? Are you okay? I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you. Call me. We really need to talk.”

          I deleted the messages. Then I showered and pulled on an old pair of pajamas. I crawled into bed and lay awake thinking for a few hours.

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          I awoke at 8 a.m. and showered and changed into jeans and a stretch scoop neck T-shirt. Dad was downstairs looking through the fridge.

          “Morning, Dad,” I said grabbing a cup of coffee.

          “Morning Princess. What do you want to do for breakfast? McDonalds’s?”

          “Oh, well Ranger is taking me out,” I said.

          “Oh, okay well have a good time.” Just then the bell rang. I went to see who it was…Joe Morelli.

          “Hey Joe,” I glanced over at Dad. “What’s up?”

          “Did you get my message?”

          “Yeah, I got it last night. But it was late and I went to bed. I was gonna call after I got back from breakfast. We need to talk.”

          “So can I come with you and your Dad to breakfast?” he asked.

          “No, Morelli you can’t. Just my Princess and I are going. She will call you later,” my Dad said through gritted teeth.

          “Fine! Later, Cupcake. We really should talk,” he ground out.

          “Thanks Dad.”

          “No problem.” A few minutes later the bell rang again and I answered it, it was Ranger.

          “Hey, come on in. I just have to grab my bag.”

          “Mr. Plum,” Ranger said with a nod of the head.

          “Ranger,” he replied nodding.

          “Would you like to join us?” Ranger queried.

          “That okay with you, Princess?” I nodded. “Good, because I don’t cook and your Mother didn’t leave anything for breakfast pre-cooked.”

          I laughed and Ranger chuckled all the way to the Bronco. The drive was silent as we headed to the Silver Dollar Diner. We headed in and Ranger grabbed the back booth back to the wall. I slid in next to him and Dad sat across from him. We ordered and Dad looked at Ranger warily when he ordered fruit and a toasted bagel.

          “So, babe, you doing okay?” I nodded. “No nightmares?” I shook my head. “Okay, well be sure to let me know if you need anything. I’m always here for you.”

          “Thanks, Ranger. There was one thing...Um self defense. I think it would be wise to get some.” He nodded.

          “Good idea, babe. As soon as your ready we can start,” he replied.

          “Thanks.”

          “No problem.” Our food was served and we set to the task of eating and talking about inconsequential things. Dad and Ranger talked about serving in the army and I learned a bit of both their experiences. We shuffled out to the car and headed back to the house. When we got to the house Dad thanked Ranger and headed in. Ranger and I stood by the vehicle and stared.

          “I think I should start to carry the gun, too. I mean just on apprehensions.”

          “So you’re going to keep your job?”

          “Yeah, why wouldn’t I?”

          “Word on the street is your quitting your job for Morelli,” he said in a not so neutral voice.

          “No, I’m actually about to break up with him when he gets here to talk,” he raised his eyebrows. “Yeesh, I should not have probably told you that. Doesn’t seem fair you knowing before him. I trust you to keep that quiet. I just got fed up with everything. I mean while I was hiding from the Slayer’s I couldn’t even tell him I loved him. I don’t and he loves me. I guess I’m stringing him along. I can’t do that. I can’t always pick the safe choice, because I lost the only guy I was ever in love with,” he raised a single brow again. “Another story for another day. Plus he didn’t even see if I was okay. He just ignored me at the scene yesterday. I can’t take this hot and cold, on and off crap anymore.” Ranger hugged me.

          “I will support whatever decision you make babe.” I nodded while he held me to his chest. “I have a guy trailing you. We got word out their could be retribution from other cities of Slayer’s.”

          “Okay, thanks. And Ranger?” he looked back as he headed to his car door. “If you ever need anything...I’m here for you, too.”

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Chapter Two  - - - - The Break - Up and The Drunkenness

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          I headed back inside and decided to call Joe. He wanted to meet at Pino’s for lunch. I said okay. Dad and I headed out into the Buick to the car dealership. I was glad I had been saving up for occasion when my car would go Kaboom! I decided to go with something bright and cheery. I mean black is good for Merry Men and Batman, but I need something cheery in my pathetic existence. I picked a 2000 Forrest Green Escape. I thought it was a definite cheery vehicle, yet good for apprehensions. I got in and called Mary - Lou telling her to meet at the office around three p.m. I called and told Connie and Lula my plans. Then I headed back to my parent’s house after picking up a McDonald’s lunch for my Dad.

          We watched television while he ate his food and I drank my shake. He walked me out and told me good luck at lunch. He was off to drive the cab. I headed over to Pino’s. I got there a half-hour early and Joe wasn’t there yet. I said hello to a few people and then got the back booth with my back to the wall. I ordered my usual and a coke instead of beer.

          Joe strolled in fifteen minutes later and headed back to me. He kissed the top of my head and sat on his side of the booth. He ordered and looked over at me. He could tell I was upset and he had his cop mask on in full force.

          “How are you feeling? Did you get checked out by the EMT’s?” he asked.

          “Yeah, I’m okay. Just a few scrapes and bruises.”

          “That’s good.... Well not good, but I’m glad you are okay.”

          “Me too.”

          “So you want to talk here or go back to my place?” he said as his eyes turned to liquid chocolate. He says he wants to talk and now he want’s sex. Yeesh, men, mental eye roll.

          “No, Joe, I think we should talk here. I don’t know how to say this exactly. I don’t know if you know this but, before I married Dickie while you were gone in the Navy, I moved to LA right after I graduated. I met someone and fell in love. He was murdered. When I got back I saw you and clipped you with the Buick.”

          “Yeah, I remember that part,” he said looking sad while trying to cheer the mood. I think he knew what was coming.

          “Then I married Dickie because it was what everyone told me to do. It was safe...I mean normal ‘burg guys don’t get murdered like people in LA When I found Dickie and Joyce I got divorced. I dated a few non-‘burgers and some ‘burg guys. But I was always scared to take that step again for something serious. Then you came along and you had changed. You were ‘burg but not totally. But, Joe, the thing is...”

          “You’re not in love with me?” I nodded. “I know Cupcake. I just thought that you would eventually. We still have a chance, we can leave the ‘burg if you want, Cupcake. Please don’t do this...Cupcake?

          “Joe, I’m sorry, but we can’t be together anymore.” With that I set money on the table and left Pino’s with silent tears falling down my face. I hopped in the Escape and found the nearest Dairy Queen. I ate a lot of ice cream and got a sundae to go for Dad. When I got home the ice cream sundae was gone too. So I headed up to the shower and then changed. I spent one hour in my thinking position and then headed out to the office.

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          I walked into the office and Lula bounded over a lifted me off the floor in a huge squeezing hug.

          “Lula! Air, air please.”

          “Oh, sorry,” she said. “White girl, don’t you be scaring me like that again. I want all the details on how you took out all them Slayer’s and why you cryin’ in Pino’s after you tell Joe about some boyfriend gettin’ murdered?”

          “Long story,” I said.

          “We have time,” Mary Lou said from the couch.

          “Hell yeah! Let’s take the petty cash and go get some margarita’s and chip’s n’ salsa down at the Daiquiri Deck. Vinnie’s out of town any way he will never know.”

          We hopped into my Escape and headed to the Daiquiri Deck. I told them some about my boyfriend back in LA and what happened during the Slayer thing. They about died when I told them I stayed in Ranger’s apartment. We were on our fifth round when Tank, Ranger’s right hand man came over to our table.

          “Um, Steph?” he said.

          “Yo, Tank do you want a margarita? They are super yummy!”

          “Uh, no thanks. It’s just don’t you think you girl’s have had enough? Can I drive you home?”

          “Sure, Tank! That’s soooo nice of you. Can Lula have your phone number? She thinks you are one fine black man. She’s just a little shy cuz’ of the whole pork chop and bacon business. Not to mention when she pretty much broke into a vending machine and attacked that Twinkie...I’m not helping am I?”

          “Sure she can have my number.”

          “Great...Yeah, that would be great.”

          “White girl, you rock!” Lula yelled then promptly fell off her chair when Tank smiled at her.

          “Okay ladies let’s get going.” We headed back to the Escape and Tank dropped off all the ladies. When we pulled up to my house Ranger was waiting there. “Boss,” he said nodding to Ranger.

          “Hey, Ranger! How you doin’?” I said doing the Joey impersonation and head bob. He chuckled.

          “Why did you go get drunk, babe?” he asked.

          “Celebration. According to Lula it was about time I dumped Super-cop. But she ain’t sure if she is still gonna call him that on account of he snubbed me after the Slayer thing. Oh and she thinks he might have been boinking the skank Terry Gilman. She’s a hit-woman for the mob you know?” he nodded yes after my tirade.

          “Super-cop?”

          “Yeah, it was the only positive nickname she could come up for him. Now if it’s about you she’s a frickin’ genius. You got Batman, the Wizard, Cuban Sex God, and so forth.... What were we talking about?” Ranger laughed and hugged me.

          “Babe, go inside I will see you tomorrow. Call me in the morning and I will bring you the cure, with a happy meal toy! Then we need to talk about a job and your training.”

          “Okay, thanks so much, Ranger!” Then I gave him quick kiss on the lips and headed inside to my nice warm bed. My Dad was still up watching television when I got inside. He looked over at me and went to get started on the coffee. We sat at the table eating coffeecake (the good kind with the almonds) and drinking hot coffee.

          “Want to tell me about your night, Princess?” he asked.

          “The girls found out I broke it off with Joe. They wanted to take me out to curse men. We had margaritas...”

          “Did you curse, Joe?” he chuckled.

          “No, Daddy, he was pretty upset when I told him it was over.” Silent tears ran down my face again. My Dad hugged me.

          “It’s okay, Princess. How did you get home?” he asked.

          “Ranger has a guy following me. We aren’t sure about Slayer retaliation yet. Tank brought all us girl’s home from the Daiquiri Deck.”

          “And?”

          “Ranger is bringing me the hangover cure in the morning and to talk about me self defense lesson’s.”

          “Sound’s good, Princess.”

          “Night, Dad,” I told him and headed upstairs to bed.

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Chapter Three  - - - - Help

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          I awoke groggy and disoriented. I looked around. I was in my childhood bedroom. Slayers were trying to kill me. Staying with Ranger. Kidnapped by Slayers. Slayer’s dying. Talking with Dad. Breaking up with Joe. Drinking with the girls. Wow, it’s been a busy few days. I showered and put on my usual uniform of stretch scoop neck tee and jeans. I did the hair and minimal make-up thing. When I got downstairs Dad was letting Ranger in. He brought me and Dad breakfast from McDonalds. What a sweetie. Whoa, that’s not a word you usually think of when you think about Ranger. Oh, well it’s too early to think about that.

          “Hey, thanks for bringing food,” I said.

          “Hey, babe, no problem.”

          “Aren’t you going to eat?” I teased. He grabbed some of my fries and I goggled at him.

          “Not nice to tease. Plus I love fries. Don’t spread it around.” I laughed and Dad and I kept eating. When we were done Dad stood up.

          “Thanks for breakfast, Ranger. I’ll let you two talk. I’ll be in the garage. Gotta maintain the Buick.” Ranger nodded and Dad headed for the garage.

          “How did you sleep, babe?” he queried.

          “Good,” I smiled. “How about you?”

          “Okay. I miss having you there,” he added quietly. I was shocked. He gave some so I decided to give back a little.

          “I miss being there.” He smiled and kissed me lightly on the lips.

          “We need to talk about your self defense. What were you thinking?”

          “I think it shouldn’t be you who teaches me. No matter how much I would like that it’s just you might unintentionally be easy on me. Plus, we...”

          “We what, babe?”

          “We...don’t you remember the last time I tackled you?” I asked. His bed room eyes made an appearance. The chocolate brown darkened to black and he gave me a full 200-watt smile.

                                                          “Yeah, you thought I was a homicidal psycho skip. Too bad your Grandma interrupted us. Maybe we won’t get interrupted next time.”

                                                          “Maybe,” I said.

                                                          “So I was actually going to suggest that Tank teach you self defense and Lester, Bobby, or I will accompany you at Sunny’s Gun Range. Sound good?”

                                                          “Yeah, thanks. When should I meet Tank?”

                                                          “Today at four if your ready and meet Lester at the gun range at two. Are you going to work today?”

                                                          “Yeah, should be leaving soon. Thanks again.”

          “No problem, babe,” he said. Then he leaned down and kissed me tenderly. “I would do anything to help you.” And then he was gone. Damn. Why do all the men in my life walk away first? That’s it! Next time I’m walking away first. I grabbed my keys then headed out to say bye to Dad. We decided to go to Rossini’s for dinner.

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          When I got to the office Lula was lounging on the couch and Connie had her head on the desk. I shook my head, pitiful.

          “Good morning, ladies!” I chirped. Crap, I don’t chirp. Valerie chirp’s! Darn.

          “What the fuck are you in a good mood for?” Lula asked groaning.

          “Yeah, you got a happy smile too. Not as good as the great sex smile but a good moment smile,” Connie said.

          “Yeah, I see it too.” Lula added.

          “Ranger brought me the cure this morning. Any files Connie?”

          “Sure, here you go.” I grabbed the files and began to sift through them. I had three. One of them was a repeat offender that I brought in regularly. Walter “Moon Man” Dunphy. Piece of cake. The second file was Carl Steiger. Arrested for grand theft auto. He’s a sixteen-year-old kid. I had flash backs of Stewart Baggett. If this kid is dressed in any kind of animal costume I am so out of there. And last but not least Bernie the fruit guy. I used him for info when I was trying to find Maxine Nowicki.

          “Shit! Lula, you have to come with me on this last file!” I screeched.

          “Damn, girl, don’t get your panties in a twist. Who the hell is it?”

          “Bernie the fruit guy.”

          “Oh, hell, no! That guy thinks I’m your lesbian lover. Get Sally to go with you. That guy dug him. Now off you go. Bring back fried chicken. And don’t be skimpy with the extra grease.”

          “Whatever. Bye gal’s see you later,” I called over my shoulder as I left the office. I got into my Escape and headed out to Carl Steiger’s apartment. I figured I’d save Mooner until after the Different Strokes marathon was over today at 6 p.m. When I pulled into the complex I parked and headed up the steps to the second floor. I found apartment 211 and knocked. Just my luck Carl answered. I had my stun gun behind my back and ready.

          “What?” he said.

          “Hi, Carl, I’m Stephanie Plum. I represent your boning agent. I’m here to take you to reschedule.”

          “Okay, put me down for sometime next week.”

          “Sorry, that’s not how it works. I have to take you in and get you rebonded.”

          “Yeah, well you don’t look like you could take me in,” he said in voice like he was talking to a two-year-old. He was right about that. He was very fit and full of bulging muscles. Not as good as Ranger, but not bad either.

          “Wow, look at that tattoo,” I said while pointing at his forearm.

          “Yeah, just got it last month,” he replied. When he looked down I swung my arm out and buzzed him. He crumpled to the floor. Success! I handcuffed the evil doer (okay, semi-evil doer) and tried to drag him to the elevator. This wasn’t gonna work. This kid weighed like 200lbs. I flipped my phone open and hit speed dial # 1.

          “Yo,” he said.

          “Yo, yourself. I need help carrying a man to my vehicle.”

          “Is this guy naked and covered in Vaseline?” he queried.

          “No, he is clothed, buzzed, and cuffed.”

          “Be there in ten.”

          “Thanks, Ranger.”

          “Anytime, babe.” Disconnect. He got there nine minutes later and helped me drag Carl to my SUV. When we got him hand cuffed in the back seat I turned to Ranger.

          “Thanks.”

          “Like I said anytime, babe.” I had to keep my plan...I leave first. I kissed him on the lips quickly and hopped into my vehicle. I yelled, “call me!” and drove away. Yes! Good plan…I did it. Too bad it didn’t feel like much of an accomplishment.

          I dropped Carl off at the station. I was careful to avoid Joe. I pulled through the Cluck in a Bucket drive thru and ordered a bucket of extra crispy and extra greasy. I dropped of some chicken for my Dad and then left for the office. The girl’s and I ate then I decided to call Sally about helping me with Bernie. Sally said he was free tomorrow and would accompany me. It was time for me to head to the gun range.

          I made it to Sunny’s fifteen minutes early and Lester was standing outside waiting. He nodded to me.

          “Hey, Lester. How are you?”

          “Good, you remember me?”

          “Of course. You think I don’t know how to have fun since I don’t like getting shot at or arrested.” He chuckled.

          “Yeah, well since then you seem to be having a lot of fun. I wish I could blow up cars at an alarming rate.”

          “Riiight. So you gonna teach me to get comfy with my gun?”

          “Sure let’s head in.” We walked in and I bought some ammo. We worked for an hour and half. Then I needed to head over to the Haywood Street office to do self-defense with Tank. I thanked Lester gave him a hug good-bye and headed out.

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          Tank was waiting for me in the garage. We got reacquainted and I apologized for the leg, getting him blown up, and leaving him stranded at the airport. He took me up to the gym and showed me around. We headed over the mat’s and worked with me on my self defense moves. I spent the next two hours sweating my ass off. I was a surprisingly good learner. After I was thoroughly battered and sweaty. I hit the showers. Tank and I talked a few more minutes and he made sure I would give Lula his number. He said he would take her out for a steak or better yet pork chop dinner. I laughed and headed off to pick up Mooner. I swung by McDonald’s and ordered to big mac’s and two large fries. I checked by Mooner’s house and nobody was there. So, I headed off to Dougie “the Dealer’s” house. Dougie answered.

          “Hey, Steph. We just finished watching Different Strokes. Did you want to buy a shower radio?”

          “How much?”

          “For you $20.”

          “Sure.” I gave him a twenty and headed into the living room. “Mooner I brought you a big mac and fries. We have to go get you rescheduled.” I gave him and Dougie there food. We sat and watched one episode of Wing’s while they ate. I grabbed my shower radio and we headed out.

          An hour later I dropped off Dougie and Mooner. Then I went home to shower and change before Dad and I went to Rossini’s. I wore a simple black swishy skirt and blue V neck sweater that matched my eyes. I added a gold locket to my neck and headed downstairs.

          Dad was waiting and we headed to dinner. We got to Rossini’s and I ordered my usual sausage Alfredo. I decided to go ahead and tell my Dad about L.A. He listened during the whole thing, only stopping me to ask the occasional question. When I was finished I wiped the tears from my face. The only thing my Dad said when I was done was “I’m sorry you went through that, Princess,” then he shook his. We ate dessert and then headed home. When we were watching t.v. he finally asked the question I had been waiting for.

          “How could you have dated someone that famous and the press not find out about you?”

          “We were really careful. It was hard, but I loved him and it was worth it.” 

          I headed upstairs and was about to head for the shower when my cell rang. It was Ranger.

          “Hey.”

          “Hey, babe. Whatcha doin?”

          “Nothing. I went to Rossini’s with my Dad and we talked about some stuff I hadn’t brought up in a while. Just trying to get over everything that has gone wrong my adult life.”

          “You okay?”

          “Yeah, I will be.”

          “Okay. I was calling because I have to go to Boston tomorrow for two weeks. I was wondering if you wanted to go dancing tonight?” I was a little shocked. This sounded date like. “I want to see you before I go,” he said since I was silent.

          “Sure. I need to change.”

          “Be there in twenty.” Disconnect. I rushed to change. I pulled of my swishy skirt and put on black leather pants. I kept the blue sweater and gold locket and gelled my hair and adding another coat of mascara and lip gloss.

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          Ranger and I had an amazing time. We danced until the place closed then he drove me home. We got out and followed me to the door.

          “Thanks, I had a great time,” I said.

          “Yeah, me too. Here,” he said handing me the key’s to his apartment. I looked at him questioningly. “Incase when your Mom and Grandma get back you need a place to stay.”

          “Thank’s, I’d probably go crazy. You can probably die from eye twitch.” He pulled me in for a hug and softly chucked against my hair.

          “Goodnight, babe, see you when I get back.” Then he pulled me in for hot demanding kiss. And then he was gone.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          The rest of the week went by like a blur. I worked, trained with Tank, and shot the shit out of the paper men with either Lester, Bobby, or Hal. After a day of my Mother and Grandma getting back the eye twitch started, so I packed up and headed to the Ranger’s 7^th floor apartment.

          By the end of week two, I was very good with the gun and Tank couldn’t pulverize me as quickly. I was feeling much better. The only bad thing was every time I saw Joe at the station he would try to see me. Last Wednesday was the worst. I had just brought in Donald Hickey and boy, was he icky. He was almost as big as “Fat Bastard” from the Austin Powers movies. Tank and I were dragging him through to the docket lieutenant. Tank had to leave for a Merry Man secret meeting and he left me to get the body receipt.

          “Cupcake?” I turned to look when he called me. “Can we talk for a minute?”

          “Sure, Joe.” He whisked me away to his office and shut the door. “What’s up?” I tried for casual. He had left several messages since the break up wanting to talk or go out.

          “How are you?”

          “Good, Joe. You?”

          “Fine. Listen, cupcake, I’m really sorry about being so upset and rude to you after the Slayer thing. It’s just I was so worried. Please, we can work this out...”

          “No, Joe, I told you it’s over. I can’t be with you anymore. I’m not in love with you and that’s not fair...to either of us. You want to live happily ever after. I don’t know if I could ever do that. And I know I couldn’t do it with you. I’m really sorry.” I gave him a hug and headed to the parking lot. When I got to my vehicle I was about to pull the door opened when a hand grabbed my wrist. It was Joe. Sigh.

          “Joe? What are you doing?”

          “I’m not letting you do this. WE BELONG TOGETHER! Everyone in the entire ‘burg think’s so! You aren’t letting something as dumb as an ex boyfriend being killed ruining what we have! You belong to ME!” he screamed. 

          “I belong to no man, Joseph Anthony Morelli! And yes, maybe my old relationship’s are partly to blame, but don’t you EVER, EVER, EVER, belittle what he and I had.” His grip on my arm tightened and I used my new found self defense to flip him onto his back. Cop’s came running. Big Dog helped Joe up and Carl Costanza looked around wildly, while Eddie Gazarra hugged me and made sure I was ok.

          “I’m fine, Eddie. Thanks.” In the distance I heard Ranger’s voice, which couldn’t be true because he was in Boston.

          “Where the hell is she? What happened to her?” I rolled my eyes.

          “Eddie is that Ranger?”

          “Yup, here he comes,” he replied. I closed my door and headed towards him. His eyes zeroed in on me looking for any signs of injury. His eyes found the bruises on my wrist and his eyes held fury.

          “Hey, I’m okay. When did you get back?” I asked.

          “Just now. Tank said you were here. What happened? Did the skip get violent after Tank left?”

          “No, can we talk about this later?” I whispered quietly. He searched my eyes and finally nodded. “I’ll meet you at your apartment, okay?” He nodded again and headed back to his truck. I went over to the boy’s and told them I didn’t want to press charges. Then I looked at Joe and he looked awful. I went over to him. “Joe, I don’t want to talk to you for awhile. I hope we can be friends again one day, but not now. We aren’t getting back together. And Joe? You aren’t your father.” I hopped into my Escape and headed to the apartment. I was half way through the door when Ranger grabbed me and pulled me in. He kicked the door shut and slammed me against the back of it. His mouth was all over me, his tongue thrusting in and out, hot and demanding. Yum. When he pulled away we were both breathing heavily.

          “Are you okay?” he asked.                

          “Yeah. How was your trip?”

          “Busy. I ordered dinner. Glad you came here while I was gone. I thought of you in my bed.”

          “What was I doing?” I queried. He gave me the wolf grin. “Never mind, save that for later.”

          “What happened at the cop shop?”

          “Joe and I had an argument. I pretty much lost it when he said every one in the ‘burg knew we belonged together. Then he went so far as to say I belonged to him. Hmpf, freaking’ arrogant, Neanderthal, men.” I rolled my eyes so far back I thought I’d go blind. Ranger laughed.

          “I’m sorry. Is he the one who bruised you?”

 ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Chapter Four  - - - -  Slayer Issues

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          I awoke wrapped in a warm Ranger cocoon. He was nice and warm and smelled of Bulgari. I snuggled in closer and sighed. My pillow began to chuckle. I lifted my head from his chest to look at him. He gave me the 200 watt grin.

          “Morning, babe,” he said.

          “Morning.”

          “Did you sleep well?”

          “Definitely. Better than I have in the last two weeks.”

          “Have you been having nightmares?”

          “No...” then quietly I said “I missed you.”

          “I missed you too. How has your training gone so far?”

          “Good. I’m a pretty good shot with the gun and I’ve mastered some self defense. Tank says I’m really good for a beginner.”

          “Cool. What do you have planned for today?”

          “Nothing. I guess I will see if Connie has any files for me.”

          “There are a few things we should talk about.”

          “Okay. Do you want to talk now?”

          “Sure. First I was wondering if you would come back on the RangeMan payroll.” I guess he could tell I looked apprehensive. “I have been wanting to for a while, babe, it’s just this new case has pushed things ahead. How about a probationary period?”

          “Okay, we can try it.”

          “Good. Second, is Joe.”

          “What about him?”

          “This thing yesterday. Do you need to talk about it?”

          “No, he just hasn’t realized that its really over this time. I just have to keep telling him I guess.”

          “Hmm. Okay. But remember I’m here for you.” I nodded. “Okay, third, tonight will you go to dinner with me?”

          “Sure. Where are we going? Pino’s? Shorty’s?”

          “Babe, this is a date. We can go to Rossini’s or some where else nice.” Holy shit did he say date? “Yes, babe, I said date. Do you still want to go?”

          “Of course. We can go wherever you want. Was that all?”

          “No...” he trailed off.

          “Well?”      

          “It’s the Slayer’s. They have made a decision.”

          “What is it?”

          “I don’t know. They want to meet with you. They said you can bring back-up if you don’t feel safe. We get to pick the place so we can feel safer. They are going to call sometime this week. We say where to meet and they will show up to give us the verdict.”

          “Okay. I can handle this. Yeah, this will be fine....You are coming right?”

          “Yeah, babe, I will be there.”

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          Things went well for the next few day’s. I went to the RangeMan meeting’s every morning at eight. I haven’t had a serious job yet. I have done surveillance with Lester and two distraction jobs. I had a feeling the ease would be over soon. Ranger and I had gone out to dinner and had a great time. He walked me back to the door of his apartment and kissed the daylights out of me. Then we walked inside put our pajamas on and slipped into bed with him spooning me. I remember the conversation at the restaurant vividly.

          “Babe, I need to ask you a very important question.”

          “Okay, shoot.” He grinned.

          “Do you have feeling’s for me?”

          “Yes. Do you have feeling’s for me?”

          “Yes. So....we should give it a go?”

          “I was hoping so.”

          “Good, me too,” he said. So we decided to see each other. We would work the RangeMan jobs together and I would catch my skips for Vinnie. Then we would spend the evening’s together never doing more than make out. Then we would sleep in the same bed snuggled up together. It was great.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          I awoke to the sound of the alarm going off. Ranger must already still be out on his run. I got up and showered and changed into my work outfit. I walked into the living room and Ranger was setting the table. While we ate I was telling him about how Lula came with me to train with Tank the day before.

          Lula had been sitting on the bench watching when I had tackled Tank and he accidently hit his head on a weight that someone had left next to the mat. He was unconscious and Lula freaked and jumped on him. She started to give him mouth to mouth except he was still breathing. He woke up and was still groggy and Lula had been straddling him. He yelled out “Lula! Not on the first date!” And then he realized we were in the gym and just about every employ had run in when Tank fell, because of the earth quake.

          Tear’s where running down his face so I headed into the kitchen to grab the butter. When I came back Lester had come in and was talking to Ranger.

          “Oh man. Did the Bombshell dump you or something?” he asked Ranger. I burst out laughing and Lester swung my way. Ranger started laughing again and more tears came out.

          By the time we were all calmed down it was time to leave for the meeting. We headed down to the conference room. All the guy’s were there and waiting. Tank looked at us and raised a brow.

          “I walked in and the boss was crying. I thought the Bombshell dumped him. Turns out he was just laughing his ass off. Then me thinking that cracked them both up.” Is Lester dumb? Did he just announce that Ranger cried?  Ranger sent him a death glare. He sat down and shut up. He got to today’s schedule.

          “We have another,” he looked at me “redecorating job” all the other guy’s smirked at this. “It’s over on Stark Street. Cal and Bam will have the first security shift. Bobby, Lester, Tank, Bombshell, and I will take care of the removal. Dismissed.”

          We got into the Bronco I pulled a C.D. out of my bag and started to put it in. The guy’s in the back groaned.

          “This isn’t gonna be some whiney chick singing is it?” Bobby asked. I turned around and laughed in his face.

          “You don’t know shit about my taste in music.”

          “Babe, we usually listen to rap or heavy metal before this kind of job. Not Maroon 5 or Bon Jovi.”

          “And apparently neither do you.”

          “Babe, come on. I know a lot about you...”

          “Do you trust me?” He nodded yes. “Good.” I stuck the C.D. in and hit play. The guy’s looked over shocked. Ranger turned the music down and grabbed the case from my hands. He studied it.

          “Where did you get this babe?”                       

          “Ranger it’s a C.D. where do you think I got it?”

          “Babe, this C.D. doesn’t come out for two weeks.”              

          “Yeah, I know. I have a friend.”

          “Babe do you know who Makaveli is?”

          “Yes, Ranger, it’s the name that they release Tupac’s song’s under now that his is dead,” I said in my well duh voice.

          “You like Tupac?” Lester asked.

          “Yes. Do you guy’s want to sit here all day and let me tell you all about the music I like or are we gonna do this?”

          “Let’s just go, boss. After all it seems we have over looked an integral part of the Bombshell here. Maybe she ain’t so white after all,” Tank said. I looked back at him and rolled my eyes. He grinned at me.

          We pulled out and headed over to Stark Street. We got out and headed to the back of the Bronco. The guy’s all looked over at me I rolled my eyes.

          “I brought my gun this time!” They all laughed. Okay I laughed too. I strapped into my gear and we headed inside. On three we were in the apartment and the guy on the left was coming at me. He was only wearing jeans and his chest was very hairy. Gross. He ran at me and I side stepped and buzzed him. I left a trail of shirtless buzzed men in my wake. Okay so there were only two but that’s good right. When we were done Cal and Bam showed up to guard the place.

          “Tank I’m disappointed. We were on the fourth floor just think of how far a guy would have dropped if you threw him out a window.”

          “Next time, Bombshell, I promise.”

          “Great!” Then we headed off back to the office.

          “So, babe, when did you start listening to Tupac?”

          “The nineties, Ranger. Just get over it. You can’t know everything about me. Plus, I don’t know shit about you. You want to know stuff about me just ask. And it would be nice for me to learn about you too!” And then I hopped out of the car. I got into my SUV and headed to Vinnie’s office.

          I don’t know why I got so mad at Ranger. Okay, I knew, but I thought he knew me so well. But I held a fundamental part of myself back from him. I decided that tonight I would tell him. I spent the afternoon getting my FTA’s back to the cop shop. I made it back to Ranger’s by six. We ate dinner in silence.

          “Ranger?” he looked up. “I’m sorry I blew up at you today. There is something I need to tell you about...” I trailed off. He looked at me. “When–“ then the phone rang. Crap. He answered.

          “Yo....now? Okay. Tell them the warehouse in twenty.” He hung up. “Babe, that was the Slayer’s. We need to meet them now.”

          “Okay,” I strapped on my utility belt and we headed down to the warehouse on Stark Street. We were in position in under twenty minutes. A lot of RangeMan employee’s showed up. Tank, Lester, Bobby, Hal, Cal, Bam, and a few I didn’t know. We waited for about ten minutes, when four guy’s walked in. Three of them were gang members and the other guy was in a suit.

          “You have a message?” Ranger asked.

          “Yeah, for Stephanie Plum, Bounty Hunter from Hell,” the first gang guy said.

          “I go by Bombshell now,” I said as I took a step forward next to Ranger. Tank said it should be my street name the first day he taught me self defense. So all the guys started calling me that.

          “Yo, that’s cool. Bombshell we just wanna let you know that we ain’t gonna be comin’ after you. You cool in our book as long as you ain’t tryin’ to kill us all. We done took a vote. We be cool with you apprehending us when we skips out on our bond and shit, but if you got some vendetta or some shit we need’s to know. Cuz’ we can just forget what happened. That cool?”

          “Yeah, that’s cool. I don’t have anything against you. I mean I didn’t mean to drive a blue car in your territory and I mean that guy looked like he was gonna attack me and I really didn’t mean to bounce him off my hood.”

          “Aight.”

          “Just one thing. Sending Junkman after me was very rude.”

          “Babe,” Ranger said sounding exasperated.

          “What? I mean it was rude! I didn’t mean to piss a gang off! Do I look stupid? Don’t answer that.” The gang guys were laughing.

          “Later.” Gang guy two said.

          “Wait!” They turned back to me. “Why did you decide to forget me? I mean I though you had the hit on me and all.” The gang guy looked over to the suit.

          “Lady, I don’t know who your friends with, but some record company talked to the L.A. Slayers. All we know is they took a vote and you ain’t gettin know bounce back. If you wanna know ask this lawyer. Later.” And off the gang guy’s went. I looked at the lawyer.

          “I assume you understand what he meant?” the lawyer asked.

          “Yeah. Tell them I said thanks and that I’m coming out to L.A. soon to say a final good-bye. Tell them I’m finally read to move on.”

          “Okay, ma’am.”

          “Bye, thanks again.” He nodded and left. All the guys were staring at me as I wiped the tears from my eyes. Ranger gave me a hug.

          “Babe?”

          “Later. This was what I was trying to tell you about earlier.”

          “Babe, is this about the guy you love who was murdered?”I nodded. “He worked for a record label?”

          “Can we wait til we get back to the apartment?” it was Ranger’s turn to nod. “I would rather not have the entire RangeMan crew here this story. It can’t get out, because I will be in jeopardy.” He nodded again and we all headed out to the Bronco’s.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Chapter Five  - - - - The Olden Days

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          When we got back to the apartment I grabbed a beer and headed over to the sofa. Ranger got some water and sat with me. I was silent for a few minutes and he gave me time.

          “When I got out of college my Mom wanted me to get married and start a family. I knew I wasn’t the ‘burg type. So I decided to take this job out in L.A. I was a business major and theater minor. I got a job teaching acting to seniors. I thought it would be fun and Grandma Mazur loved the idea. So off I went.”

          “Acting for senior’s in L.A.?” Ranger asked shaking his head.

          “Any way, the job was great and I had made a few friends. But, I really missed just going out with the girls and dancing. So I heard about this club with good rap music. So I went and had a great time. I ended going there at least twice a week. The fifth time I went I saw him. He was walking in with two guys. You could tell he was there looking for a good time.”

          “How did you know?”

          “Trust me. I know when guy’s are trolling for sex.” He raised a brow. “I lived with Morelli.” He nodded an understanding then. “Any way he was really hot. I was a white girl in a room full of mostly black people. So naturally I got noticed by guy’s quickly. I had been dancing with a few guy’s like usual. When he came up to me. He asked me my name and asked me to dance. But before we could hit he floor he got a call and had to leave. I didn’t see him again for two weeks. He came back to the club, he sought me out pretty quickly. We spent the whole night dancing. He asked for my number and I said sure. I think the only reason he did was because I didn’t know him. I hadn’t been big on gangsta rap.”

          “You dated a rapper?”

          “Yeah, I’m getting to that. Any way on our first date he told me. He gave me C.D. and I told him it was good on the second date. We fell in love. But we kept it a secret, because of his enemies. You know the whole East Coast/West Coast war.”

          “Omigod! It’s Tupac isn’t it?” Tank asked. I looked up. Tank, Bobby, and Lester were standing there.

          “What the heck? How long have you been there?”

          “The whole time, Bombshell,” Lester said.

          “Oh.” Yeah, that’s me Mrs. Eloquent. “Be right back,” I added as I headed to the bathroom to grab some tissues.

          “Babe you ok?” Ranger asked as I came back in and sat next to him. I nodded slowly.

          “Yeah, it’s just hard. He’s the only guy I ever loved and when I left L.A. I closed him and everything else that happened there out of my life. He went to the fight that night in Vegas. Everyone know’s what happened. The worse part was after he was shot. I couldn’t even go to the hospital. The press was there attacking the place like crazy. I told his friends I didn’t care, but they made a promise to him. So I never even got to say good-bye.”

          I jumped up and ran to the bathroom. I was violently ill. Ranger came in and held me and put a damp cloth on my head. He murmured Spanish into my ear and held me as a cried. I cried for the love I lost, the new love I had found, and the guilt I felt over leaving L.A. and forgetting everything I loved about it. I washed my face and brushed my teeth. I headed out to the living room and Tank gave me a hug and a piece of chocolate cake. I smiled a thank you and dug in. The guy’s were all staring at me.

          “I feel terrible for closing off everything that I was back then. I came back here heartbroken and did what everyone told me to do. I married Dickie and got that stupid job as a lingerie buyer. The day I walked in on Dickie and Joyce I heard the song “Changes” and it reminded me of him. It reminded me I didn’t have to be what they wanted. I never even let myself admit this, but the day I went to Vinnie’s to get that filing job “California Love” came on the radio right before I got to the bond’s office. If it wasn’t for that song I don’t think I would have tried the bounty hunter thing.”

          “The night of the Valerie’s bridal shower I played a mix C.D. and “Keep Ya Head Up” was on it,” Ranger said and I nodded.

          “It’s like he was there letting me know I could do it. But, Ranger I couldn’t have done it with out you, too. You’ve always been there for me.” I hugged him and kissed him tenderly. “Thank you so much,” I whispered against his lips.

          “Your welcome, babe, I would do anything for you. You do know that right?”

          “Yes,” I said and rested my forehead against his.

          “Okay, babe.” I finished the cake and sighed.

          “Go ahead and ask the question’s.”

          “What was he like?” Lester asked. I looked over at him, I was clearly amused.

          “In bed?” I quipped back. Ranger looked amused, but you could tell he definitely didn’t want to know about that.

          “No, I don’t think so. I meant what kind of person was he?”

          “Actually you guy’s remind me a lot of Les.” They looked confused.

“His real name is Lesane. He was a good guy he just had a really rough life growing up. But he believed that things could change.”

          “Why did you come back to Trenton, babe, from the sounds of it his friends would have still taken care of you.”

          “Yeah, but I couldn’t be surrounded by his world. I mean imagine loving someone and then they are murdered and your surrounded by everything that reminds you of them. I couldn’t do anything I just sat in my apartment thinking of funny things we did there, holding thing’s we left, and planning things we would do. And then I would remember I would never see him again. It was too hard.”

          “What did you do?” Bobby asked.

          “So I called my Dad. He came and got me and brought me back to the ‘burg. After I broke it off with Dickie. I tried dating someone outside the ‘burg, but it didn’t work. I tried dating the ‘burg, but it was too boring. That’s when I got involved with Morelli. He is sort of ‘burg, but not 100%. So it was safe. The day of the Slayer thing when I talked with my Dad he said something. It made me realize I’m never going to be ‘burg. So I might as well and stop deluding myself.”

          “I’m proud of you, babe. You’re a really strong person.” He kissed me on the forehead and hugged him. Then all the guy’s hugged me.  I think I know what it feels like to squished in the subway now. Just then the phone rang. Everyone looked at me. Oh, it must be mine. I dug in my purse, but couldn’t find it. So I dumped it out on the counter. The boy’s looked inerested.

          “Hello,” I said.

          “Stephanie?” the voice asked.

          “Speaking. Who is this?”

          “Mouth.”

          “Mouth? Are you kidding me?”

          “No,” he said chuckling.

          “What is it?”

          “Did you get the new’s from the Slayer’s?”          

          “Yeah, what did you guy’s do for me?”

          “Just made sure they understood we like you.”

          “But you put yourselves at risk as well as me.”

          “How are you at risk?”

          “The Slayer’s have a connection between us now.”

          “Shit.”

          “Yeah, it’s ok. I don’t think my life expectancy is that great anyway. I attract psycho’s. Hell, your psycho and your calling me! Don’t worry about it.”

          “Trigger, Slice, and I want to meet you. We are gonna be in Jersey for a few days. Can we see you?”

          “Yes. I know a pizza place where you will blend in. Just call me. Thanks for everything. Let your boss know I said that.”

          “You got it. Later.”

          “Bye,” I said to a dial tone. I looked up the guy’s were looking at the stuff from my purse.

          “Glow in the dark flavored condoms, babe? Is there something I should know?” he asked barely containing the grin.

          “Present from Grandma Mazur. She gave them to me when she found out I was staying here.” Ranger shuddered and I grinned.

          “I didn’t know they came in Cola flavor!” Bobby said. We all laughed. I threw them at Bobby.

          “You keep those.” I began putting stuff back in my purse.

          “So who was on the phone?” Ranger asked.                

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Chapter Six  - - - -  Reunion - Part 1

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          After getting grilled from Tank, Bobby, Lester, and even Ranger last night I was tired so I slept in. I had made the guys promise to not let the information out and they agreed. I made it to the office by ten and the girls were ready to scream. They heard all the detail’s of my exploits over the past two weeks. I filled them in on what I deemed necessary. We were sitting on the couch when the skank walked in. She walked up to Connie’s desk.

          “Hey Connie! How are you today? Got any files for me?” She asked sweetly. I sent Connie and Lula ‘what the fuck?’ looks. This is SO not Joyce behavior.

          “What’s gotten in to you Joyce?” Connie asked.

          “When I got up this morning there were three criminal-gang-muscle types at my door. I think Ranger sent them. He finally has come to his senses and dumped a fat ass loser like you Stephanie Plum. He wants a REAL woman now,” she sneered.

          “Actually I have it on good authority you bought most of the body after your first divorce,” said a voice walking into the office. We all looked over at Ranger. “Joyce?” she looked up still fuming. “I do want a woman in this office...” she shot me a triumphant look. Ranger walked towards her and I was getting freaked. I knew he wouldn’t do that too me. He stopped in front of her and she leaned in as he turned and pulled me off the couch into his arms. Then he kissed me with so much passion and possessiveness I almost came on the spot. I looked at Joyce and her eyes bugged out. She went into Vinnie’s office and slammed the door behind her.

          “Thanks,” I said to Ranger and he smiled and kissed me again. “Well, ladies I must be off. Skips to catch and so forth. Plus Valerie is moving this week and she wants me to help. Yeesh. Bye.” And off I went.

          I made it back to Ranger’s apartment by 5pm. I was thinking of going to dinner at my parents house. But I had heard that Joe Morelli had been invited on the pretense of my apologizing to him. So I ‘accidently’ erased my Mother’s message telling me to come to dinner. I was channel flipping when he came in.

          “Hey babe,” he said and kissed me senseless. Again.

          “Hi,” I breathed.

          “The boy’s want to go out with you again. They heard from Mary Lou that you are a very good dancer. And I know it’s true, but the boy’s want to see.”

          “Sure. We need food first. And I need to change into club clothes.” He nodded and ordered dinner from Ella. I headed into the bedroom to change. I finally decided to wear red leather pants and a white halter top. I added a silver belly chain and silver hoop earrings. I re-did my hair and make-up and headed out to eat.

          “Wow, babe, you look great!” Ranger said.

          “Thanks. Let’s eat.” We ate and then headed downstairs to meet the guy’s. I learned on the way over that Bobby’s girlfriend is a stewardess and was out of town. Tank and Lester are both single. We got to the club and grabbed drinks and a table. About an hour later Ranger and I took a break off the dance floor. I had danced once with Tank, Bobby, and Lester, but Ranger had been monopolizing my dance time. I went back to the table and about the best way to let the guy’s know I knew Lester was gay. I had suspicions, but they were confirmed when I asked Lester if he was seeing anyone special on the ride over. I was beginning to ESP with the guy’s. I could see their sly glances and smirks.

          We were sitting at the table taking a breather when I thought of the perfect way. I knew the perfect guy to set him up with.

          “Omigod!” I exclaimed.

          “What is it babe?” Ranger queried.

          “I just thought of the perfect person to set Lester up with,” I smiled cheekily. Tank started coughing and Bobby let out a bark of laughter. Boy were they getting slow.

          “Bombshell I don’t think that’s a good idea...” Lester said.

          “Oh, come on Lester! This guy is perfect for you.” To say they looked shocked was to put it mildly.

          “You knew?” he asked.

          “I’m not dumb. Plus you guy’s give each other these looks when I asked if he was seeing someone. I already had suspicions but that confirmed it.”

          “Damn. So who is this guy?” Lester asked eagerly.

          “Actually, he’s one of Tupac’s friends. He goes by Trigger.”

          “Trigger?” Lester asked. I shrugged.

          “He has a thing with guns. You two should get along. He sleeps with his under his pillow just like you.”

          “Babe how did you know Lester keeps his gun under his pillow?” Ranger asked. I looked at him amused, I think he is serious and jealous.

          “We’re having a mad illicit affair. All three of our children live with him on the fourth floor.” Ranger didn’t look amused. “Cripes, Ranger, he told me while we were at the gun range.” I said with an eye roll. I looked at the crowd. “Trigger...”

          “Yeah, tell me more,” Lester said. I shook my head ‘no’.

          “No, Lester, I meant Trigger,” I said and then pointed into the crowd. Three guy’s walked towards our table. The were heavily armed and were dressed to kill. Pun intended. Trigger was leading the other two. His skin was still the same color a very light chocolate color. The result of a black mother and white father. Mouth was on Trigger’s right side. He was still as big as he was in the olden days. Almost as large as Tank. Slice was on Trigger’s left, he was the only white guy of Tupac’s crew back in the day. They made it to the table.

          “Slim,” Trigger said. Mouth and Slice both nodded.

          “Guy’s long time no see. This is Ranger, Tank, Bobby, and Lester. Guy’s this is Trigger, Mouth, and Slice.” There were nod’s all around and Lester was staring at Trigger. I smirked. Heh heh heh. “I thought you guy’s were going to call when you got to town?”

          “We lied. We’ve been here for a while. We wanted to hook up, but not a pre-planned thing. Can’t have our moves known,” Trigger said.

          “Why are you on the run?” I asked.

          “Did we say we were on the run?” Mouth asked.

          “No, you didn’t but this ain’t your style with me. If you wanted to take someone to your boss this is how you would handle it.”

          “Maybe we want to take you to the boss, man,” Slice added.

          “Ah hunh, and what would the boss want with me?”

          “To talk. But he can call you. We heard the Bombshell Bounty Hunter was here and we came to dance with you white girl.” I laughed and then we all hit the floor.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          It was decided we would head back to the hotel the guy’s were staying at so we could talk. We got into the Bronco and headed to their place. I wondered why they wanted to talk in private instead of at Shorty’s tomorrow night like I requested. We drove twenty minutes towards Princeton to a nice hotel. I rolled my eyes. I wondered what the staff thought of the ‘gangsters’ staying in the suite. I laughed and Ranger looked over. I just shrugged. We parked and headed up stairs.

          We got settled in and I was sitting next to Ranger on the love seat he had his arms around me and Trigger was sending him dirty looks. I tried to diffuse the situation.  

          “So guy’s what have you been up to? And Trigger why on earth have you moved up to five guns? What shit have you been in?”

          “Damn, Slim, you can tell how many guns I’m carrying?” I nodded. “Yeah, I guess you are a bad-ass bounty hunter.” I felt Ranger grin. “I’ve been helping a guy on the run. Long story. But personally, you knew my thing with Scott was going down the tubes when you left. Since then nobody special. Just doing my job’s for the boss. What about you?”

          “The whole bounty hunter thing. Slice? Where you been?”

          “Nothing much. I did two bullet’s for ya know slicin’ a brotha.” I rolled my eyes. “Ya, Slim, I know. But, he creepin’ with my girl.” I sighed. “I workin the same job with Trigger and Mouth. That’s about it.” I looked over to Mouth.

          “Keisha and I got hitched and we got a baby girl. Then we split up. Now I’m a free agent. And I workin’ for the boss too. Same job.”

          “Cool. So did you need help while you’re here in Jersey. I figured that’s why you all got in touch.” They just looked back and forth at each other.  I stood up. “Guy’s? What’s going on? Why did you guy’s want to talk with me? I mean it wasn’t like we were best friends back then. Why am I here?”

          “Cuz’ I missed you, shorty.” I spun around to the person that spoke from the bedroom door. Then I fainted.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Chapter Seven  - - - -  Reunion - Part 2

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

          “Cuz’ I missed you, shorty.” I spun around to the person that spoke from the bedroom door. Then I fainted

          “Babe?...Babe, open your’s eyes,” Ranger said. I was having a really strange dream. Darn.  I opened my eyes. There was Ranger’s warm chocolate eyes. I smiled and so did he. I looked over to my left and there was Tank. They helped me to my feet. That’s when I saw him again. Okay, it wasn’t a dream, I’m staring at Tupac. No a Tupac look alike.

          “Is this a joke?” I asked the room in general. Bobby and Lester’s eyes were bugging out of their heads. Mouth, Slice, and Trigger were standing by Tupac.

          “Nah, it’s me, shorty,” he said. He opened his arms like he was waiting for a hug. I jumped into his arms and hugged him tightly. I could feel the tears streaming down my face. He put me back down on the floor and I pulled back. “How you been shorty?”

          “Pretty good. How about you?”

          “I been great. I missed you though.”

          “Oh that’s nice,” I said sarcastically. Then I pulled my fist back and punched him in the face. I walked over grabbed my purse. “Ranger. Let’s go.” And then I headed for the door.

          “Shorty?...What the hell?” I turned back to him.

          “What the hell? What the hell? That’s what you say to me? I thought you were dead! I cried! You put me through hell when I thought you DIED. And you say ‘What the hell?’”

          “Well, yeah. You punched me and were going to leave.” I just shook my head and headed towards the door. “Tell me why you are so mad. You should be happy that I’m okay!”

          “You want to know what’s wrong?” He nodded. “I thought you were DEAD. You let me believe you were dead for eight years. Eight fucking years. You want to know something?” He looked shocked. “Well ask your fuckin’ home boy’s what it was like when you got shot. Then call me. And I’ll tell you all about me life since then.”

          Slice was at the door guarding it. I just stared at him and he looked pained. I was always closest to Slice. He handed me a tissue I took it and turned around. Bobby, Lester, and Tank where looking back in forth between us. I went to Ranger and he enveloped me in his arms.

          “Shorty can we please talk? This is important.” I nodded. We all sat back down. “I’m sorry, about the way things went down. But trust me it was for the best.”

          “For you or me?” I asked.

          “For everyone. You wouldn’t have been able to handle the last eight years.”

          “How the hell do you know that? You always under estimate me. I’m a stronger woman than you think. You know forget it. Let me just tell you this. What you did was wrong. I was so upset when I thought you were dead. I never even got to say good-bye to you. You know I loved you, right?”

          “Yeah, shorty, I knew.”

          “So what was I? A good lay? A distraction? ENTERTAINMENT? See if I can get the naive white chick to fall for me?” He was silent. I jumped to my feet. “Tell me dammit!”

          “No. I loved you too,” he said quietly. I fell back into my seat. “I am sorry shorty, for the pain I caused. But your alive so it was worth it to me.”

          “What do you need from me?”

          “First off, it can’t get out that I’m alive yet. We researched RangeMan and we need help. I’m assuming these guy’s work there.”

          “Oh, sorry I didn’t introduce you.” Always the little ‘burg hostess. Got those manner’s burned into my brain. “This Tank, Bobby, Lester, and Ranger. Guy’s this is Tupac.”

          “So you guy’s work at RangeMan. Cuz’ I heard the owner likes you, babe,” Tupac said.

          “You never called me, babe, before don’t start now,” I said. Lester laughed. I sent him look. “Yeah, the owner, has a thing for me,” I added trying not to laugh.

          “So this guy can call you, babe, and I can’t. Shorty, we KNOW each other. What is this guy to you?”

          “I KNOW this guy too. What the hell is it with the men in my life and nicknames. Joe calls me a freakin pastry. Do you people know how many names I go by?” They were all staring at me. I think I was getting a little hysterical. “You don’t know do you? Well I will tell you. Princess, Slim, Shorty, Cupcake, Babe, Steph, Stephie, White Girl, Slut, Fat Ass Loser, Bombshell, Bounty Hunter from Hell. Should I go on?” By this time I was shrieking.

          “Babe, it’s ok calm down.” He pulled me in and hugged me. He was whispering Spanish in my ear. “Babe, es aceptable. No se preocupe, yo tomará el cuidado de usted. Tengo siempre su parte posteriora. Tengo razón aquí. Calma abajo, mi amor. Shh, es aceptable, babe.” *

          “Can someone just tell me what you want?” I finally said. “I don’t know how much more I can handle. Plus I’m a little drunk and very tired. You shouldn’t spring something like this on me. Didn’t you guy’s realize this would be a shock? I’m getting hysterical again. Please just tell me.”

          “We need help tracking down the guy who tried to kill me. We know who it is and that he is in Trenton. Also, there is a serial killer here who we are trying to catch. One of his victim’s is my cousin.”

          “Why don’t we meet up at my office’s tomorrow. Steph need’s to go back to the apartment and get some sleep. Come on, babe,” Ranger said. He picked me up and headed towards the door. “Tank give the gentlemen directions to the Haywood office. We’ll see them there tomorrow after the ten a.m. briefing.”

          “Wait, your Ricardo Carlos Mañoso?” Ranger nodded. “So your street name is Ranger.” He nodded again. “Am I gonna get outed if I come to your office or is it safe?”

          “It’s safe. We will use the privacy floor and I’ll turn the camera’s off. I can send a secured vehicle for you if you like.”

          “Cool. See you then.” He nodded and Tank, Bobby, and Lester followed us towards the door.

          “Bye Lesane**. I’m really glad your alive, but I’m still upset.” He kissed me on the check. “Later Trigger, Slice, Mouth. Oh and Trigger I think Lester wants your phone number.” Bobby laughed and I felt Ranger smile against my cheek. That’s when I fell asleep.

_____________________________________________________

*Babe it's ok. Don't worry, I will take care of you. I always have your back. I'm right here. Calm down, my love. Shh, it's ok, babe.