It was a cool October night. Two lovers walked through the park, trying to find a place to fullfill a fantasy: public sex. They spread the blanket near some bushes off the beaten path. Entwined in their embrace, they rolled each fighting for the dominant position. They got carried away, and rolled off the blanket, then through the bushes. The young woman let out a blood curdling scream as she came face to face with a man's corpse.

*********************************

An hour later, the area had been cordoned off by police tape. The blinking red and blue lights were no help for the crime scene investigator and her new recruit. "CC, can you turn on the headlights? I can't see a damn thing."

"Sure." She went back to the truck, then turned them on. "Let's see what we have," she said as she walked back over to the body.

"Male victim, about 25-30 years old. Bruising around his throat indicates he was strangled. What was the weapon?" Jade asked.

CC studied the throat area. "Bare hands. Finger shaped bruising, thumbs over the Adam's apple."

"Very good."

"I suppose dumping a dead body would be one way to get two women on their knees for us," a man laughed from the victim's feet.

Jade didn't even look up. "You are the biggest pig I have ever met, Nash." She looked up at him. "Don't let anyone else inside the tape. We haven't had a chance to get a good look around yet." She turned her eyes to the more business-like of the two homicide investigators. "Callaway, male, 25-30, no i.d., strangled. I'd say by a man. These are some really big finger bruises."

He smirked. "Good evening to you, too, Jade. Mind introducing your new assistant?"

"CC is not my assistant. She's the new addition to the field team. CC, these two are the biggest pigs in the homicide division, Kevin Nash and Mark Callaway."

CC craned her head up to them. "Hello."

"Atleast she greets us. You should try being nice, Jade," Kevin teased.

"Once she gets to know you, she won't want to say anything to you or Mark."

"What would you say is the TOD?" Mark asked.

"The body is cold, rigor mortis has started to set in. Today, at some point. I'll get a better idea when we get the body back to the lab. Hopefully, John Doe is on record." She motioned for the coroners to bag him, and take him to the lab. She grabbed her flashlight out of her case, and turned it on. "I don't see any sign of struggle in this area. CC..."

"He could have been dumped here, or the struggle wasn't in the immediate area."

"Hey, Sherlock, there are boot prints over here," Kevin said. "And our vic was wearing boots."

She went over to look. "You want to take this, CC?"

"Sure."

"The print points in this direction. By the depth of the depression, I'd say he was an incredibly heavy man, or he was carrying our John Doe. Unlike you, Nash, I can't say that it is a boot print. It could be a dress shoe, or a loafer."

"I'll bet dinner on it."

"You can pay for it, as long as I don't have to sit with you."

Mark laughed. "Come on, man. Let's let the ladies work."

"Yeah. Why don't you two... I don't know. Talk to the couple that found the body?" Jade said sarcastically. "CC can deliver our findings with the body."

Mark laughed and slapped Kevin on the back as they walked away. "You know, if you ever want in those size fours, you might want to try being nice to her, or shutting your mouth all together."

"How do you know what size she wears?"

"Her hips and ass. The new girl, CC... She's a size three. Smaller frame, smaller ass, smaller size."

"You're full of shit."

Mark turned around. Not wanting to press his luck with Jade he said, "CC, what size jeans do you wear?"

She looked up from the mold she was making of the foot print. "Three."

"Jade?" Kevin asked.

"It doesn't matter. You can't get in them."

"A four?" he asked.

"Yes. Now will you leave?"

As they walked off Mark smiled and said, "damn I'm good."

**********************

Back at the lab, Jade and CC made it just as Doc was finishing the autopsy. "Well, what did you find?"

"His Adam's apple is crushed. He has a couple boot prints on his ribs..."

"Shit..."

CC smiled. "You owe Nash dinner."

"Thank you, smart ass. Time of death?"

"Around eight this morning. His clothes are bagged up for you two to do your magic with. Here are his prints." He handed CC the card with his finger prints. "He had a thing for tribal tattoos. All across his shoulders, on his arms..."

"He doesn't look indian... Just another kid doing what everyone else is." Jade looked at Doc. "Thanks. We have to get to work."

"If I find anything else, I'll let you know. See you later."

Jade grabbed the bag with his clothes inside. Once outside the door, she said, "I'll see you in the lab. Go ahead and run those through the system. I have to tell jackass he won the bet."

"I could tell him when I drop off the notes," CC offered.

"I'll spare you the celebration. Besides, I'm used to him by now. I'll see you up there." Jade took the stairs up to the second floor. Begrudgingly, she walked over to Kevin's desk. "Alright, Nash. You won. It was a boot. Doc found boot shaped bruises on the vic."

He smiled as he continued to flip his pen on his desk. "Where are we eatting tonight?"

"Not tonight. I have to work on what evidence we have. CC is running the prints." She looked at Mark's empty chair. "Where's Callaway?"

"He went to the lab. He thought it would be good for my health if I stayed here. He knows I just piss you off."

"Well, atleast one of you knows that. Keep your partner out of my lab. When we find something, we will come to you guys." With that, Jade went to the lab. As she looked through the glass at CC, Mark was smiling down at her. She reached up and slapped him. She grinned as she walked in the room. "I think that was a hint for you to leave."

"She's just as stubborn as you are," Mark growled.

"And that is why I chose to take her as my understudy. As I told Nash, stay out of my lab. We will come to you with any info we get."

CC turned back to the computer screen. "Guys, we have a hit. Randy Orton, twenty-six. He was brought in for assault and battery a year ago, but the charges were dropped."

Mark looked at the address. "I know that place. Nash and I will check it out." He looked down at CC. "I don't suggest slapping me again, darlin'." With that, he left.

"Fucking jerk..." CC muttered.

"You'll get used to them. They may be total dicks, but they are good at what they do." Jade's cell phone rang. "Yeah?"

"Jade, I just scraped the vic's nails. I found epithelials. I'll have them sent up."

"Thanks, Doc. By the way, we have a name. Randy Orton."

"I'll mark it on his tag. Bye."

She hung up. "Well, we have some DNA to work with now. Doc found skin under the vic's nails."

Chapter 2 - CC

The air was cool and crisp as Nash handed his palm out to Jade, "Me
Lady", he said with a smile. Taking his she replied, "Don't get any
ideas Nash." Chuckling he told her, "You said that about dinner, yet
here you are." Yanking her hand out of his she said in low and deadly
tone, "The only reason I'm here is because there were some technical
difficulties with the equipment, that's all. Don't mistake my
generosity for a woman wanting more, rather see me as a woman who
wants to get this bet over and done with." And with that she
sauntered in to the restaurant leaving him alone in the chilly air.
Admiring her firm rounded ass he thought to himself, "By the time I'm
through with you, you'll be begging for this bet not to end." He
followed her into the cozy warm establishment.
**************************************************
Frustrated and starving, CC was sitting in the dimly lit lab, waiting
by the phone, working on some paperwork. She was so engrossed in her
work that she didn't even sense the huge figure looming in the
doorway. BBBBBBRRRRRRIIIIIINNNNNGGGGGGG.
Jumping five feet she yelled, "Jesus", and grabbed the
phone. "Hello?" she answered in a shaky voice. "CC? It's Lance from
Tech, where's Jade?" Not knowing what to say and not wanting to get
her into trouble, CC stammered, "Uh, she stepped out just for a sec."
Frustrated Lance replied, "Alright, but tell her to call me ASAP, I
have some information on the equipment and it's not good." "Sure,
yeah, okay." And she hung up. "Well, looks like someone's in
trouble," boomed the big man from behind her. Startled, CC whipped
around in her chair and relaxed once seeing who the big man was. "You
are such an asshole. I'm busy. What do you want?" Pushing himself off
the side of the doorway, he slowly came towards her. With a gleam in
his eye and a bag of hot steamy food in his hand, he suggestively
whispered, "You look hungry." Willing to play along with his game,
she seductively smiled, "I certainly am, but not for you." And she
grabbed the bag from his hand. Taking a deep breath to calm the anger
that was slowly rising, he told her in a demanding tone, "You really
are cute, when you're not such a Bitch!" he grabbed the bag from her
and as he was walking out the door he scolded her, "By the way,
you're not allowed to eat in the lab." With a shocked look on her
face she watched him leave thinking to herself, "Thank God I don't
have to work with him!!!"
*****************************************************
"Now that's what I call a Filet Mignon!" Nash said leaning back and
patting his stomach. "Thanks for everything, the dinner, the wine,
now what about the dessert?"
All of a sudden Jade's pager went off. Smiling she said, "Saved by
the Pager." Looking down and seeing that it was CC with the infamous
969 after it, indicating it was an extreme emergency, Jade couldn't
help but think, "God bless you, CC". Seeing the look of relief on her
face, Nash shook his head and said, "No way, our dinner isn't
finished, therefore the bet isn't over." Getting up from the table,
Jade smiled, "As your partner always says, Sorry darlin' but duty
calls. I'll catch a cab. Oh, by the way, it's been fun." Her face
turning serious. "So much fun, let's not do it again for quite some
time." And she left. He got up and began following her, "Hey, you're
not leaving me with the check." The head manager saw him beginning to
leave and caught his arm as he began to open the door. "Sir, you have
to pay before you leave." With an evil glare, Nash looked down at the
manager's hand holding his arm and then back into his eyes, the
manager cleared his throat and slowly let go of Nash's arm. Looking
outside the door watching Jade get into the cab, he growled, "Fine."

chapter 3 - Jade

"Thank GOD you paged me, CC," Jade said as she set her purse on the counter. "That man thought sex came with the meal."

"What did you do?" CC laughed.

"Stuck him with the bill. What did you need?"

"Lance wants you to call him about the machine."

"I'm sure Nash is hot on my heels, so I'll just go see him."

**********************

Twenty minutes after Jade left, Nash came in. He was so angry his face was red. "Where the hell is she?" he growled.

CC smiled. "Well, now I know why she's hiding."

"Is she in the building?" he asked in a deathly tone.

"Yes, but I won't say anything else."

Kevin glared at her as he opened his cell phone, and called Mark. "Jade's in the building. Help me find the bitch."

"Check with Lance. He was working on that machine."

"Thanks."

He gave her an evil grin. "She's so wrapped up with work... Maybe she's with her precious machine." CC's eyes went wide. "I guess she is." With that he left.

"Shit... She's gonna kill me," she muttered.

**********************************

Jade stood behind Lance, looking over his shoulder as he showed her the problem. "Damn it... How soon can you get me another one?"

"If I put a rush on it, in the morning."

"I have to have that so I can run some samples. Please, rush it."

Just as she was about to turn around a large hand clamped on her arm, then spun her. "You welched."

She looked up into Kevin's glaring eyes. "I did not welch. There was an emergency."

"You walked out before the bill came."

"Oh, bitch, bitch, bitch... What do I owe you?"

"Another dinner. No cell phones, no pagers... Just the two of us."

"Go to hell, Nash. I had dinner with you, and that was more than enough time with you. This machine... This JOB is priority, and you know it. I need that machine so I can run samples for YOUR case, so YOU can catch the bad guy, and be the big hero."

He raised his hand as if to hit her, but she didn't flinch. "I hope you can run fast," Lance said.

"Stay out of this, Hoyt."

"If you hit her, and she doesn't catch you, I will."

Kevin lowered his hand. "I even put on a suit, so I'd look nice for you."

"When was the last time you saw me in a dress, you cocky bastard?" she asked as she pointed at the strappy black material. "Some things are more important than paying up on a bet."

"I paid this time, so you still owe me." With a wide smile, he walked away.

"Grrrr.... I HATE THAT MAN!"

"Boyfriend troubles?" Lance laughed.

"Oh, God... Not in this lifetime!" She shook at the thought. "Put a rush on one of those for me. I'll be here in the morning to use it."

"No sweat."

"Thanks." She went back to her locker to get back in a pair of jeans and a shirt. Then, she went back to the lab. "Well, we have time to kill. Do you want to go over the clothes with me?"

"I am starving! I want food!" CC whined.

Jade laughed. "Alright. Go get some food and some rest. Be back bright and early."

"Fucking Callaway teased me with food earlier..."

"I told him not to come back in here."

"Well, he snuck up on me..."

"Before you go, you want to go down to his desk with me?"

"Nah. I'd rather not see him again before I eat. I'll see you in the morning."

"See ya."

CC went to her locker, grabbed her purse, and headed down stairs to the door. Before she reached it, a large hand gently grabbed her arm. "Look, CC, I'm sorry for calling you a bitch. That was uncalled for."

She was taken aback for a moment. "Apology accepted, Callaway."

He smiled at her. "Mark." He released her arm. "Do you need a ride? I was just leaving."

"No. My car is out front. Thank you, though."

"Ok. See you tomorrow."

He stood and watched her rear as she walked out the door. "You actually apologized to a woman?" Kevin laughed.

"You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar." He slapped the other man on the back. "I'll see you tomorrow, Nash."

Mark's words hit Kevin like a ton of bricks. "Kill her with kindness," he thought to himself.

*****************************

Jade had sat down at her desk with CC's notes. She wanted to read them before she started on the clothes. She was halfway through the first page when there was a knock on her office door. She looked up to see Nash.

"I brought you some coffee, and an apology."

"Tons of sugar?"

"And four creams."

She looked at him quizzically. "Who are you, and what did you do with Nash? The Kevin I know has not done a single nice thing, or given me one apology in the two years I've worked with him."

"Alright, I get the hint. I'm an asshole. If I promise to behave, and you agree to leave your pager and cell behind, can we try dinner again?" He chuckled as he set the coffee in front of her. "I'll pay."

She caught her jaw before it hit the floor. "You can behave?"

"Like a gentleman, when I want to," he said with a smile.

She thought for a moment. "Alright, but if you start actting like an ass again, I'm outta there. And, just because I have dinner with you, don't expect dessert to be in either of our beds."

"What about in the car?"

"For Chrissake..."

"I was just joking. Tomorrow night?"

"Unless something comes up in the case."

He took her hand from the desk, and kissed her knuckles. "That's why we have partners."

chapter 5 - Jade

Jade called Nash and Callaway down to the lab. "I thought we weren't allowed down here?" Mark said.

"DNA under the vic's nails matched his. Since I didn't see any scratches on his body..." She noticed Kevin was too busy staring at Bryan to pay attention. She waved her hand in front of his face. "Paying attention, Kevin?"

"Who's he?" he whispered.

She looked over her shoulder at Bryan. "A friend. He used to work here. Back to the case." When Kevin turned to look at her, she continued. "CC ran the test three times, a match every time. Did you guys find out about any close relatives?"

"His father has been living with him. He went out of town on business yesterday. He comes back tonight," Mark said.

"You guys may want to talk to him."

Kevin cleared his throat. "Mark and CC can. We have plans."

"Right. You two won't be able to reach us tonight. CC, take your kit. Nail scrapings, prints, DNA sample... Look for anything destinct to the wounds."

"I know what to do. You should get some rest. What did you do? Stay here all night?"

"Yes, I did. I'm fine, really. I'll finish my paperwork, then go home and take a nap..." She looked at Nash, and raised her brow. "...alone."

He put his hands up. "I'm being a gentleman, remember? I'd never suggest..."

"Bullshit." He chuckled as she rolled her eyes. She turned to CC. "Can you handle things around here today?"

"If I have any emergencies, I'll call you."

"Ok." She sighed as she looked over her shoulder at Bryan again. "I just have to get rid of him."

"I'll meet you at your desk," Kevin said to Mark.

Mark gave him a sideways grin. "Yeah... CC, you wanna grab some coffee?"

Taking the hint, CC smiled and said, "sure."

Once they were gone, Kevin stepped up to her and laid his hand on her cheek. "Do you want me to handle him?"

She gave him a tired smile. "No, I can handle Bry."

"Are you sure?" He slid his thumb down to trace her lips.

She gently grabbed his wrist, as her smile widened. "I really need that sleep. You almost seem sweet."

"I'm trying," he said with a grin.

****************************************

CC smiled as she walked out of the lab with Mark. "Do you think... Nevermind."

"What?"

"Do you think it's safe to leave them alone? She may kill him."

Mark chuckled. "They've been fighting since she came here. That's the calmest I've ever seen them together."

His cell phone rang. He took it off his hip, and answered it. "Callaway."

"Hey. This is Jackie in missing persons. I have a woman here about your guy, Randy Orton."

"I'll be there in a minute." He closed his phone and put it back on his hip. "A woman just showed up looking for our victim." He looked through the glass at his partner, then at the smile on Jade's lips. "They look busy. How about if you come play good cop for me?"

"Uh... Okay."

They met the woman in missing persons. As she stood from the bench, she looked up at Mark, ignoring CC. "You must be Detective Callaway," she said as she extended her hand to him. "My name is Stacy Keibler. I was told you could help me find my Randy."

He shook her hand firmly. "Yes, I can. I'm sorry to inform you, Ms. Keibler, but a couple found Mr. Orton's body in the park. If you don't mind, could we ask you a few questions?"

"Certainly."

As they walked to the interrogation room, CC noted that Stacy seemed stoic when told that Randy is dead.

Once inside the room, Mark said, "please, have a seat."

As she sat down, she asked, "how did he die?"

"He was strangled. Do you know of anyone that would want him dead?" Mark asked.

"Most people that met him. He wasn't easy to get along with."

"What is your relation to him?" CC asked.

She picked at her nails. "We've been dating for over a year."

"Yet, not even a quiver of the lips when we tell you he's dead. That doesn't seem right," Mark commented.

"As I said, he wasn't easy to get along with. His attitude and arogance was given to everyone, including me."

"What was his relationship like with his dad?" CC asked.

"Typical father and son for the most part. Randy recently took his father in to his house, and has been taking care of him."

"Why?"

"Well, his father has been managing him. They thought if he was closer, things would be easier."

"Why did he need a manager?" Mark asked.

"He was a fighter. A very good one at that. Bob thought he was ready for the big time."

Mark ran his hand over his face. "Alright, Ms. Keibler. You are free to go."

Before she got up, she dug a card and a pen out of her purse. She scrawled something on the back, then handed it to him as she stood. "Here's my number." She smiled at him suggestively. "In case you need anything," she said, drawing out the final word.

Once she left, CC mumbled, "horny minx..."

Mark smiled at the hint of jealousy in her tone. "She's about as appealing to me as a pile of horse shit. As for the case, she's on my list of suspects."

"But the hand prints were too big to be her's."

"True, but she could have hired someone to do it for her."

chapter 7 - Jade

Once at the restaurant, the limo driver opened the door for them. Kevin stepped out first, then held out his hand to help her. Jade smiled as she took his hand. He placed her hand on the inside of his bicep to lead her inside. He smiled down at her as he realized she was feeling his muscle through his suit.

He leaned down and whispered, "don't worry. I won't tell anyone you felt me up."

She may have rolled her eyes, but he saw the color rise in her cheeks. "Kevin..."

"I know. I'm sorry. Old habits die hard."

"You will, too, if you don't knock it off."

"Hey, I gave you a chance to get out of this."

"And if you weren't good looking, I would have taken it." He raised a brow at her. "Oh, don't you read anything into that. I paid you a compliment. End of story."

Once seated inside, Kevin ordered a bottle of wine. As they looked over the menus, she would peek over at him from time to time. "I told you. I'm boring when I behave," he said without looking at her.

"I didn't say anything."

"I know, but you keep looking at me."

She closed the menu, and set it down. "I'm trying to figure you out."

"You mean profile me."

"I've had you profiled. I want to know how much of it is right."

He closed his menu, set it down, and turned to her. "Okay. Lay it on me."

"You are an egotistical man, lives alone, though probably has had several bed-mates, you crack jokes to hide an inner demon, or past rejection. You dye your hair to hide your age, because you fear growing old. And, you are a step down from a sexual predator."

"Ouch... Okay. You had me feeling bad enough already." He sighed. "Almost right. Past rejection and I don't fear growing old. I fear growing old alone. But, I dye my hair because I hate the gray showing. And, I'm "close to being a sexual predator"?"

"I don't think gray hair could make you look any less handsome." She reached across the table, and laid her hand on his. "Prove me wrong on the rest."

"I've done my own profiling."

"Oh, really? Do tell."

"You are a nose in the air scientist, with little faith in anything but cold hard facts. You live alone, because your mother is no longer alive. You can be genuinly sweet when you want something, otherwise you are suspicious. And, you would rather spend the rest of your life in the lab, than actually date a man."

She laughed. "I probably deserved that. My mom is alive." She sighed, and released his hand. "As for the rest, you're right. I've been walked on a lot, so I'm suspicious. And, I've kissed a lot of frogs, and still no Prince Charming." She looked down, and picked at the table cloth. "So, rather than being used and abused again, I stay in the lab."

"And I thought you just hated me," he joked.

She smiled. "I don't hate you. Just your method of coming after me."

The waiter returned with the wine. He opened the bottle and poured their glasses.

"And, I'm sorry for the sexual predator comment, but you have to admit you come on strong."

The waiter gave him a suspicious look. "Don't bother calling the cops. We work for DCPD," he told the waiter. When he walked away, Kevin glared at Jade. "You did that on purpose."

"I apologized for a comment. I'm trying to get my nose out of the air."

He chuckled. "Maybe we should put the profiles behind us. Otherwise this date is doomed."

"Agreed." She lifted her glass. "To an end to the fighting."

"To giving this frog a chance to show you he can be a prince."

*************************************

"Okay, take south I-95 to Miami, Florida. They have a big show this weekend," CC said.

"Alright."

She looked over at him. Her brows furrowed. "Um... Mark, it's dark out. Shouldn't you take off the sunglasses?"

"The headlights bother my eyes. So does the computer."

"Well, I found profiles on our victim and his father on this site. Randy Orton: third generation wrestler, youngest world champ, reputation as a legend-killer, attacking stars from decades ago."

"That would make him a wanted man, and add to our suspects."

"Cowboy Bob Orton: second generation superstar, one time bodygaurd and friend to "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, now his son's manager."

"Maybe he got tired of playing second fiddle."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, he used to work for this Piper character, so he would be in his shadow. Now he works for his son, and in the shadow again." He yawned. "We have a long ride. You might as well get some sleep."

"The way you just yawned? Are you nuts? I'm going to make sure you stay awake."

"It's that damn thing. Shut it down. We can look at it later. I'll turn on some music to keep me awake." He turned on the radio, and the cd player kicked in.

After a moment, CC was forced to cover her ears as Pantera's "Southern Trendkill" blared through the speakers. She reached out, and turned it down. "How the hell do you expect me to sleep with that noise?"

"That noise is going to keep me from running off into the ditch."

"Pick another noise!"

He slowly turned to look at her. "I like this cd," he growled.

Intimidated by the sound of his voice, she said, "atleast keep it down, so it's not rattling my eardrums."

He turned back to the road as she put her seat back, and got comfortable. It wasn't long before she was asleep.

CC awoke when he slammed the car door. "What the..." She looked at him, then relaxed. "What's going on?"

"It's one in the morning, and we're in Miami. Every damn hotel is booked for this show, and a convention in town. I got us a room, but it's a single bed."

She groaned. "I knew I didn't want to come with you."

"The way you snore, I'm not looking forward to this either."

"We can sleep in shifts. You go first."

"Fine."

She followed him up to the room, then took the key as he went in. "I'm going to find some coffee."

"Be careful."

"Go to sleep."

She went back down the stairs, and looked around. The only place open was the bar. She went in, sat at the bar and called the bartender. "Where can I get some coffee around here?"

"You're in luck. I just brewed a pot."

"Oh, thank gawd."

He chuckled as he fixed her a cup.

Up in the room, Mark tried to sleep, but when he closed his eyes, all he could see was CC in some sort of trouble. "Damn it, Callaway, why did you let her leave the room?" he scolded himself. "You dragged her here from DC. She's your responsibility."

He punched the pillows as he sat up, and pulled his pants back on. He went down the stairs, and found her sitting at the bar. The guy on the bar stool next to her tried to put his arm around her, but she pushed his arm away. When he grabbed her arm, he made a beeline for the drunk. Mark grabbed a handful of his hair, and pulled him off the bar stool. "Touch her again, and I'll break every damn bone in your body," he growled. "Got it!?"

"Yeah, sure!"

"Go sleep it off."

As the drunk left, she looked up at Mark. "Thanks."

"No problem, darlin'." He looked at the bartender. "You got a cup she can take to the room?"

The bartender looked from her to him. "You know this guy?"

"Yep. He's my knight in shining leather." She laid a few dollars on the bar. "I've had enough coffee. Thanks." She hopped off the bar stool and let him lead her back up to the room. "How did you know..."

"I couldn't sleep. I was worried about you."

"That's sweet."

"Take it as you will. I would just feel better if you were up here." He pulled the covers down on the bed. "Besides, we're adults. We can handle sharing a bed, can't we?"

"I... I guess so."

"Good." He took his pants back off. CC turned away quick. He smiled as he crawled under the covers. "You didn't think I was going to sleep in my leathers, did you?"

"I guess it would get pretty hot in them." She turned back around. She looked at him, then the empty side of the bed. "Oh, turn over."

He chuckled as he rolled onto his other side. When he heard the zipper on her jeans, he asked, "are you a little shy?"

"Oh, shut up," she said as she slid under the covers. She curled up and pulled the blankets around her. "It feels like a meat locker in here."

Mark smiled to himself. "Want me to warm you up?"

"I'll be okay."

He rolled over and gathered her in his arms. "Learn how to take advantage of a man." She laid stiff as a board. "Don't worry. I'm not going to attack you."

She relaxed against him as she felt the warmth radiating from his body, and quickly fell asleep.

Chapter 8 - CC

"That was delicious," sighed Jade as she leaned back in her chair.
Smiling, Kevin observed the content, yet slightly drunken look that
shimmed across her face. Noticing his sexy silence, Jade became a
little apprehensive. "What?" She questioned.
Still smiling, he said, "Nothing." Laughing out loud Jade leaned
forward and said, "I know you too well, you want to get me into one
of those empty rooms upstairs. Don'tcha?"
Remaining in his seat, calm as can be, and still smiling he
replied, "I promised I'd be a good boy." Shaking her finger at him,
she reminded him, "pppft, please, you were born to be bad."
The smile dropped from his face and after a few seconds of silence,
he leaned forward, brought her finger to his lips, and lightly kissed
it "We have an agreement."
Her eyes were locked on his full lips as a jolt of electricity shot
through her body with an intensity she never felt before. Jade was
rendered silent.
Kevin leaned back and with an evil grin asked, "Cat got your tongue?"
Jade cleared her throat and glanced at her wine. After taking a sip
she quietly answered, "No."
He tilted his head and took a few moments to study her. "It isn't
fun, is it?"
"What?"
"Being alone." Shaking her head and looking down she quietly
responded, "No, it's not." Sensing her vulnerability, Kevin leaned
forward and gently responded, "Then why are we?"
Looking up into his crystal clear eyes, she shrugged her shoulders.
The room became filled with an icy chill of desire and Jade couldn't
remember the last time she felt so alone. Not knowing or caring
whether she was going to regret tonight, she found herself wanting to
be with this man. To feel and be loved. Having his arms wrapped
around her like a child's security snuggled in a favorite blanket.
Feeling his whiskers brush across her cheek as she gently tastes his
lips.
His hands caressing her....
"Penny for your thoughts,"
Jade snapped out of her own private world, "Mhmm,"
Looking a touch confused Kevin replied, "I said, penny for your
thoughts,"
Thinking back to her dream, a faint smile crossed her lips and she
whispered, "Get the check."
**************************************************************
Slamming her back into the wall behind the door, Kevin proceeded to
kiss her with a passion neither had ever felt before. Jade's arms
snaked around his neck and held on tightly. Their tongues hungry for
affection. Jade felt her lungs begin to expand as her desire for air
continued to grow. Sensing her need, Kevin pulled away. Breathing
hard and in a husky voice he asked, "Are you sure you want this?"
Opening her eyes and feeling blissful she replied by slamming the
front door shut. She grabbed a fistful of his hair and brought his
lips unto hers. Losing all self control Kevin guided her to the bed.
Jade felt her legs give when the mattress hit the back of her knees.
She fell backwards and Kevin watched her through his predatory haze.
She propped herself up on her elbows and gasped as he took his shirt
and ripped it open. He slowly moved up her body and lightly kissed
her nose. His spicy scent swirled in her head as she tried to
comprehend what was happening, yet nothing came to mind. Nothing.
Nothing mattered. Only them. No fear, only pleasure. Pleasure that
would last through out the night. The two bodies merged into one as
he took her to heights she never thought possible. Screams of passion
filled the room. As he regained his breath, he slid off of her and
took her into his arms. Upon hearing the pounding of his heart, Jade
slowly opened her eyes and saw the approach of dawn through the
transparent curtains.

chapter 9 - Jade

Mark awoke with a smile on his face. He tightened his arms around CC before opening his eyes. The sun tried to shine through the hotel window, but the heavy curtains blocked it out. "Good," he thought as he nuzzled her neck. "I'm not ready to get out of bed." His eyes drifted shut as he deeply inhaled the sweet scent of her shampoo. He lightly slid his lips along the curve of her neck, then nibbled her collar bone.

CC moaned and shifted. Mark slid his hand over her stomach to grab her hip. He pulled her flush against him, then ground his hips into her rear. He saw the smile on her lips as she sighed his name. He dipped his head and traced the shell of her ear with his tongue. She stiffened in his arms just before she turned on him. "Mark! What the hell?"

He laid his hand on her thigh, then followed it up to the curve just below her bottom. "If you can tell me honestly that you don't want this, I'll stop."

She pulled her hand back and slapped him. He grabbed her wrists, and quickly pinned her to the bed. "Let me go," she growled.

"You didn't say it."

Her piercing eyes softened slightly. She swallowed against the lump forming in her throat. Her mouth felt dry as she whispered, "I can't."

"Then don't fight me." He leaned down, and claimed her lips, teasing at first, then exploring the dark recesses with his tongue. He released her wrists to remove her shirt. Once thrown to the floor he continued his assault on her senses, moving down her body to suckle her breasts.

She slid her fingers through his long dark hair as she arched her back. He made a trail with his tongue down her stomach as he pulled her panties off. "Oh, gawd, Mark..." she moaned as his lips closed around her swollen nub. "You're torturing me."

He stalked his way back up her body. "I'll make it worth the torture." He took off his boxers, and tossed them aside. He positioned himself between her legs, and aligned his length for entry. She savored every inch as he slid inside her wet tunnel. His thrusts were slow and deep, driving her on to multiple orgasms, leaving her limp under him.

He wrapped his arms around her and rolled onto his back, taking her with him. He sat up as she began rocking her hips. He grabbed a handful of her blonde hair, and roughly claimed her lips as she rode him faster, pushing them both over the edge. Once spent, he placed a kiss in the middle of her chest.

"As much as I'd like to go for another round, we have a suspect to interview," Mark said.

She gave him a wry grin. "I need a shower first."

He chuckled as he patted her backside. "I'll meet you in there."

Chapter 10 - CC

Several hours had passed since the dawn. Jade's eyes slowly opened as
she became aware of where she was. Turning slowly over she felt the
stabs of last night's binge. "I'll never do that again." she thought
to herself as she slowly brought her hands to her forehead. Suddenly
she felt something in the bed shift. Glancing over she saw him.
Groaning she thought to herself, "God what have I done?" She watched
him as slivers of his silky chestnut brown hair fell to the side of
his well chiseled face. His long black eyelashes covered those oh so
expressive hazel eyes that darkened with desire the night before.
Bare muscular shoulders beckoned to be touched. His lips feather soft
daring to be kissed. Jade couldn't help herself, with thoughts of
last night running through her head, she dipped her head to taste
them one last time. The blood red numbers of the digital clock glared
out at her. "Shit!" Forgetting everything else she threw the covers
off of her and proceeded to get dressed.
Startled Kevin asked, "What the fuck is going on? Where do you think
you are going?"

Hurriedly dressing Jade didn't waste anytime to answer, "It's 10:30
in the morning. I should have been in the lab hours ago. CC is
probably wondering where the hell I am. Why hasn't she called?"

Grabbing his keys on the night stand and jingling them, he looked at
her, smiled, and asked "Aren't you forgetting something?" Jade's
mouth dropped open. She didn't have a way home.
Kevin continued smiling and explained, "Don't worry, I'll make sure
you get home. And as far as CC is concerned, I'd say she's in very
capable hands, if, ya know what I mean." And with that he gave her
his infamous subtle sexy wink.

Throughly confused Jade asked, "And how do you know?" Chuckling he
answered, "I talked to Mark, he's in Miami. With CC." Jade was
thunder struck. With his eyes dancing with devilish delight, he
patted the space on the bed beside him, and whispered, "Now why don't
you come over here and I'll take away your pain."
****************************************************************
Silence filled the car as the two strangers drove to the arena. CC
thought to herself, how did this all happen? One name came to mind.
Jade. I'm gonna kill her for making that bet. She noticed Mark
through her pherial vision and suddenly a range of emotions began to
surface. CC was helpless and all she could do was listen. She
couldn't get over the fact that she slept with this man. Yeah he was
gorgeous and well built, but she's never had a one stand in her life.
And on top of that, she's working with him now. How could she have
lost her senses so easily? CC always prided herself in the control
she had over her life. Hell, everyone, all the way down to her ex-
boyfriend, called her a Control Freak. Never one to let go and have
some fun, CC wondered what is it about this man? I mean he's
arrogant, pushy, domineering, and what's with all the tattoos?
Someday, I'll have to ask him. What are you thinking!!! He probably
thinks every woman wants him and he rules the bedroom. Well, maybe
he's right on that one, but how dare he try and manipulate me the way
he did. A little voice belted out, "C'mon CC you wanted it and you
know it." " That's besides the point, he should have stopped." "Did
you ever say no?" Disregarding that question she shook her head
berated herself. What was I thinking?

Mark looked over at CC and noticed something was troubling
her. "What's the matter?"he inquired.

Looking out of the window she quietly answered, "Nothing."
"Now how come I don't buy that?"
"Think what you want." Mark was beginning to get perturbed by her
coldness and pressed on. "Did I do something wrong?"
Continuing to look out of the window she whispered, "It's not you."
Raising his voice he asked, "Then why do you refuse to look at me?"
Rolling her eyes, she turned, faced him, and with her dark shades
covering her tear filled eyes, she asked, "Are you happy?"
Shaking his head in disgust, he said, "No, but what does it matter."
And with that he shoved in the tape of Metallica's Master Of Puppets.

chapter 11 - Jade

Jade looked down at Kevin in disbelief. "Last night was great, but now it's the morning after. It's time to think with the head on your shoulders again. Whether CC is there or not, I have to be at the lab. Your case isn't the only one I'm working on, and without her, I'm going to be pulling double duty."

"Then, let's do it again tonight."

"Do what? Go out or have sex?"

His brows drew together. "Go out. What is wrong with you? Last night you wanted this as much as I did."

"Last night I was drunk on the wine." She sighed as she found her purse on the floor. "And, I don't think we should see each other again on a personal basis."

Kevin threw back the covers and stood. "Hang on... Who's using who now?"

"Excuse me!?"

"What would you call it? I get all dressed up, rent a limo just to take you out to a nice dinner. I even behaved myself! You told me you don't want to be used or abused again. I don't want to use you, but you sure as hell make me want to hit something sometimes!"

He stared into her eyes as his chest heaved with pent up anger. Slowly, tears formed on her lower lashes. "I'd rather it wasn't me," she gently whispered.

Her words nearly floored him. "You think I'd..." He reached out to lay his hand on her cheek, and she flinched. "I could never hit you, no matter how angry you make me."

He gave her a small smile when she looked up at him. He took her hand, and led her back to the bed. He sat at the foot, and pulled her onto his lap. She looked down at her hands in her lap. "I'm sorry. I just don't know who I can trust."

He tilted her chin up to look into her eyes. "Everything I have done since we met... I may have been an ass to your face, but the things I did that you didn't know about... I wouldn't throw my chances away by hurting you in any way."

"What things I didn't know about?" As she waited for his answer, he turned red.

"The red and white roses on Valentine's Day, the little boxes of chocolate that appear on your desk..."

"That was you?"

He nodded. "I realize I can't always say the right thing, but I know what to do to make up for it."

She gave him a smile before softly kissing him. "Alright. Tonight, my place, eight o'clock. I'll cook."

"So, I don't have to wear a suit?"

"You could show up like this, but I don't think the neighbors would like it."

"I don't care what they think. What would you think?" he softly asked.

"That we need to slow down. You have an amazing body, but I don't feel the urge to see it unclothed at all times." She bit into her lip as she felt the heat rise in her cheeks. "I, uh... pay more attention to your eyes, anyways."

He kissed her slow and deep. Once he ended it, he said, "let me get dressed, and we can share a cab."

***********************************

Mark and CC arrived at the arena in the midst of chaos. The crew was running here and there setting up equipment. The athletes and managers were gathered in a room with the head of the company, going over last minute details.

They were leaned up against the wall, waiting for the meeting to end. Without looking at her he said, "you regret this morning, don't you?" He didn't get an answer. "Look, if you do, just tell me. I'm a big boy. I can handle it."

"I'm not sure this is the time or the place, Callaway."

"Back to last names, huh?" A sideways grin formed on his lips. "I like the way you moaned my name better, but..."

She was about to unleash a torent of words that would make a sailor blush when the door opened, and the talent exited. Mark reached out, and grabbed an old man wearing a cowboy hat. "Bob Orton?"

"That's me. What can I do ya for?"

"Detective Callaway with DCPD. We need to have a little chat."

"Yer kinda out of your territory, aren't ya?"

"Miami PD granted me clearance to haul your ass back to DC. Now, we can talk here, or back there. Your choice."

Bob sighed. "Alright. Follow me." He led them down the hall to a door that said "Randy Orton" on it. Once inside he asked, "what's this little chat about?"

"Your son, Mr. Orton," CC said.

"What did he do now?"

"He died," Mark said.

Bob sat down, and covered his mouth as he tried to take it in. "How?"

"He was strangled, bare-handed. When was the last time you saw Randy?"

"The other night. He came home drunk from the club, thought he was ten foot tall and bullet proof. Wanted to tangle with me. I told him to take his ass to bed, and sleep it off."

"Why did he want to fight with you?"

"Oh, some stupid crap... "My life sucks because of you," and all that. That boy never grew out of the teenage years."

"Where were you a eight AM the next morning?"

"On my way to the airport. We had a show in Orlando that night. When he didn't show up, I thought he was throwing a temper tantrum."

"What was your relationship like with your son?" CC asked.

"It was ok as long as it was for work. Personal... that boy thought everything was my fault, and he did nothing wrong."

"What was his relationship like with Stacy?"

Bob smiled. "That girl was the best thing that ever happened to him. He was just too pigheaded to see it. He'd still run off with a ring rat if she wasn't paying attention."

"A ring rat?"

"One of these girls that would go back to the hotel with any wrestler that wanted her."

"Do you know of anyone that would want him dead?" Mark asked.

"Most of the locker room. He was a young up and comer. The older guys like to squash them. Randy met them head on, and whooped most of them. Even made a few retire."

"Name'em."

"Mick Foley, Sergent Slaughter, Roddy Piper, Hulk Hogan... I'll let you know if I can think of any more."

"You do that. Before we go, she has to take some samples."

Once finished, and the door closed behind them, she said, "well?" He didn't answer her. "Do you think he did it?"

"I'm not talking to you."

"Oh that is so childish!"

"You didn't want to talk to me."

"I was thinking." Not paying attention to where she was going, CC ran into a brick wall, or so she thought. She looked up into bright hazel eyes and a wide smiling grin. "I... uh... Sorry."

"It's no problem. I've taken worse hits." He stuck his hand out to her. "The name's Paul, but they call me Hunter around here."

She laid her hand in his. As he brought it to his lips she sighed, "I'm CC."

Mark pulled her away. "And I'm getting you the hell out of here." He looked up at Paul. "You... Where can I find Vincent McMahon?"

"You looking to join up?" he sneered.

"Maybe. What's it to you?"

"I hope I get first shot at you. Down the hall. Look for his name on the door." He smiled at CC. "And I hope I get to see you without him."

As she smiled at Paul, Mark released a growl. He half dragged her down the hall to Vince's office.

Chapter 12 - CC

The sun shined brightly and the air was layered with a blanket of
mugginess that covered the city. As she entered her office something
wasn't right. She tried as hard as she could to figure out what was
troubling her. She thought to herself, "I don't have time for this."
She sat down and began to tackle the paperwork scattered all over her
desk. Hearing a quick knock on the door jam she looked up. Smiling
she said, "Hey. What are you doing here?"
"I thought I'd come by and check to see how the machine is working.
Everything okay?"
Smiling she nodded. He slowly made his way over to her and asked, "Do
you have a second?"
"Lance, I always have time for you."
Throughout the rest of the morning and into the afternoon Kevin
couldn't get his mind off of what Jade had told him earlier. And why
did I tell her it was me who sent her all of those gifts? He was
happy about last night and thought he had finally broken through that
callous skin of hers, then, she turns around and does a 180. Yeah,
she offered to cook him dinner and everything, but what made her so
cold? Shaking his head as he was walking down the hall something made
him look up, and there he was, again. Once again he was talking to
Jade. His eyes began to see red as he thought to himself, "Not this
time."
*******************************************************************
"You're hurting me." CC exclaimed as Mark had a tight grip on her
upper arm. He never said a word and when they got to a door
labeled "Vincent McMahon", he roughly let go.
Rubbing her arm CC asked, "Do you mind telling me what you're problem
is?"
Mark looked at her disgusted and told her flat out, "You." and banged
on the door.
A voice from inside yelled, "C'mon in."
They walked in and as they did Vince looked up from his desk with his
black rimmed glasses hanging on the end of his nose. "Who are you and
how in the hell did you get in here?"
Reaching for his badge Mark replied, "Detective Callaway with DCPD."
Vince looked at him, swallowed, and in a shaky voice asked, "Is
there a problem?"
Putting his b