CSI:Miami Road Trip #11: We Ain't Comin' Home

Thanks so much for the reviews! They're always a pleasure to read.

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Miami, house, 9am

Scott: *walks in*

Lori: Hey, you have fun at your little conference thing?

Scott: We just signed a few contracts overseas.

Lori: Oh so you're starting the international investment stuff.

Scott: Looks like. *walks over* How've you been? *kisses Lori's forehead*

Lori: *sigh* Fine, I guess.

Scott: You don't sound very happy.

Lori: *wraps arms around Scott, lies head on his chest* I'm just relieved you're home.

Scott: I might be staying home for a while too.

Lori: *lifts head* What do you mean?

Scott: We still haven't hired anyone new for the Miami branch so it looks like I'll be taking over there until I can find someone. It means teleconferences to New York and maybe a visit there once a month until it's all straightened out.

Lori: *smiles* That's awesome.

Scott: And gee with the amount of time it takes to do background checks, hiring and training, I'll try my best not to drag my heels or anything.

Lori: *smiling* Drag 'em all you like.

Scott: *smiles*

Katie: *runs downstairs* SCOTTY!

Scott: *smile fades*

Katie: *runs over, hugs Scott* Boy am I glad to see YOU!

Scott: *clears throat* It's uh...it's good to see you too.

Katie: *lets go* Lori was just tellin' me how y-...WOW you've got some extra muscle there! *pinches Scott's arm, winks*

Scott: *stares at Katie*

Lori: Mother...

Katie: What? He's built like a stallion.

Scott: *steps back* Thank you for the...compliment. But I have to get upstairs and get changed. Is Steph upstairs?

Lori: Yeah, she's in her room playing with her toys.

Scott: *walks away*

Katie: Mm mm mmm.

Lori: *rolls eyes*

Katie: OH OH! That reminds me, I was on your laptop looking through some photo sites and low and behold, I find Scott's mother's image account. Apparently the old bag learned how to use the internet.

Lori: You were looking through some photo sites.

Katie: Actually, I was looking through Scott's e-mail.

Lori: *frowns*

Katie: But his mommy sent him a link to a site where she uploaded a bunch of pictures and stuff! I think it's called...Facebook? Something like that. Anyway, I was taking a gander through and LOOK WHAT I FOUND! *opens laptop, sits*

Lori: Stay out of my husband's e-mail account, Mother.

Katie: Trust me, you'll love it. I found teen Scott.

Lori: *grabs chair, sits*

Katie: ISN'T HE CUTE?

Lori: *stares at pictures*

Katie: He was a little on the chubby side but that's okay.

Lori: Mother.

Katie: HA HA. You tapped that.

Lori: *frowns*

Katie: And lookie, some college pictures. *clicks mouse*

Lori: *looks at pictures*

Katie: Oooh who's that girl he's with in that one?

Lori: Looks like Bailey.

Katie: Who the hell is that?

Lori: His best friend.

Katie: Oh. Oooh hey look, he played baseball. And won a bunch of stuff. *clicks mouse* Even a bunch of academic stuff. So he was what, a mathlete and a jock? What a paradoxical individual.

Lori: *looks at Katie* Paradoxical?

Katie: Hey, I know some big words too. He must have had some ego back then.

Lori: Yeah I've heard.

Katie: But awww in most of these, he's smiling. What a nice smile. He could stand to do away with the glasses though.

Lori: It's unfortunate you can't actually jump into the picture and tell him.

Katie: What a vibrant young man.

Lori: Way to make yourself seem old.

Scott: *walks downstairs*

Lori/Katie: *look at Scott*

Scott: ...What.

Lori: My mother hacked into your e-mail account to see your family and college pictures.

Scott: *looks at Katie*

Katie: *nervous laugh* Clearly for educational purposes. LORI LOOKED TOO!

Scott: Okay.

Katie: You're okay with it?

Scott: It's not like I have anything to hide.

Katie: *looks at Lori* Can't I just borrow him for one night? Please?

Lori: *slaps Katie*

Katie: Ow.

Scott: *sits* So these are some pictures from the yesteryears, huh.

Lori: You haven't seen them?

Scott: Not in a long time.

Lori: How old are you?

Scott: *smiles*

Lori: *smiles, places hand on Scott's chest*

Katie: Gosh I just want to hug you both and pinch y'alls cheeks. You're the cutest couple.

Lori: Well we try. Or...at least Scott tries. He's good at being cute.

Scott: *laughs*

Katie: I should really let you guys get back to the whole 'family' thing you've got goin' on. I need to get to work. *stands*

Lori: Bye.

Katie: *walks away, shuts door*

Lori: Sorry about her hacking into your system.

Scott: It's okay. I wouldn't expect anything less from her.

Lori: I just want you to know that I'd never do anything like that.

Scott: I know. Background checks and hair samples are more your thing.

Lori: *smirks*

Barbados, street, 10am

Speed: *leans against fence, looks down at cellphone*

Dane: Well look on the bright side, at least you don't have to deal with her anymore.

Speed: What's that supposed to mean?

Dane: I heard you arguing with her the other day.

Speed: That doesn't mean I don't want to be around her.

Dane: Then what does it mean? You don't even seem very concerned that she's gone.

Speed: I've been out here all night and morning and you don't think I care about her?

Dane: I think you feel like you have an obligation.

Speed: I didn't realize the villa hired therapists and gurus as towel boys. You don't know me.

Dane: Just trying to help, man.

Speed: If you want to help, try looking for my wife!

Dane: *stares at Speed*

Speed: *rubs forehead* ...Maybe I should contact the authorities.

Dane: Because you had a fight with your wife? Maybe she just shacked up with some other dude. I mean, you haven't exactly seemed like the most loving guy.

Speed: Here, why don't you take her cellphone and canvas the area again. If we split up, we'll cover more ground. If you see her, hit speed-dial.

Dane: Sure. *gets into car, turns key*

Speed: *frowns*

Car drives off

Speed: *looks down at phone, presses buttons* He should have been paying attention to the badge before he started stalking my wife.

Miami, house, living room, 12pm

Steph: *banging remote against window*

Lori: *runs over* HEY!

Steph: *looks at Lori*

Lori: KNOCK IT OFF!

Steph: *sits on couch*

Lori: *grabs remote* YOU'RE GONNA BREAK IT YOU LITTLE BITCH!

Steph: *staring at Lori*

Lori: *lifts remote* THIS ISN'T A TOY!

Steph: *starts to cry*

Lori: *throws remote onto couch, picks up Steph*

Garage

Scott: *leans into hood, twists wrench*

Lori: *walks in, holding Steph*

Steph: *crying*

Scott: *lifts eyes*

Lori: You take her. I can't stand it.

Scott: *stands straight*

Lori: *shoves Steph into Scott's arms*

Scott: *wraps arm around Steph*

Lori: She has been whining and crying and screaming and being overall annoying ALL week and I'm about to blow a gasket. And *laughs* I am SO not having another kid until you either quit your job or find one that doesn't involve me being alone 72 hours a week because this is not working, Finch.

Scott: *stares at Lori*

Lori: And another thing. When the hell are you going to be finished working on this car? I'm tired of you coming home and using my truck to get around and leaving me stuck in this stupid house with your STUPID kid. And by the way, I hate New York. It's a dirty, smelly, oversized piece of American TRASH. *walks away, slams door*

Scott: *looks down at Steph*

Steph: *looks up*

Scott: See now, someday you will come to know that as 'PMS'. It's not life threatening to her but it makes me just about the most unpopular guy to roam the Earth for about a week every month.

Steph: *wipes eyes*

Scott: *smiles* But good news, I'll teach you how to fix the spark plugs.

Barbados, sewer

Anni: *yanks arm*

Chains clank

Anni: Happy anniversary to me.

Dane: *steps over* Perhaps all you need is a different husband.

Anni: *looks at Dane*

Dane: *smiles* Anni, Anni, Anni. *kneels* I see the way he treats you and it's definitely not the way I would treat you.

Anni: ...Aren't you the towel boy?

Dane: Officially. Anni, you deserve better. You need a real man.

Anni: *lifts brow* You're like 17.

Dane: Officially.

Anni: *rolls eyes* Why don't you stop playing Phantom of the Opera and let me go because this is getting silly.

Dane: What does he have that I don't have?

Anni: A wedding ring. Facial hair. A mortagage.

Dane: I could grow facial hair.

Anni: *frowns* Let me go.

Dane: You're a goddess, Anni. He's a dick. Do the math.

Anni: I don't need math to know you're a stupid kid with delusions of grandeur.

Dane: I knew you were the one when I first saw you.

Anni: The one?

Dane: The one I'm supposed to be with. *touches Anni's cheek*

Anni: *kicks Dane between the legs*

Dane: AGH! *falls backwards*

Anni: *smiles* Ha.

Dane: *pulls out knife*

Anni: *smile fades*

TBC.............................

 

Hehe, thanks for the review!

Katie and inappropriate are like peanut butter and jam.

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Miami, house, living room, 2pm

Steph: *hops into chair*

Scott: *places sandwhich onto table*

Steph: *grabs sandwhich, bites into it*

Scott: *slides milk over*

Steph: *munching*

Lori: *runs over* SCOTT.

Scott: *opens fridge* Yeah.

Lori: Why are you such an idiot? You put your whites with my whites in the wash.

Scott: *blinks* Uh huh.

Lori: WHY.

Scott: I didn't realize we were segregating white clothes from other white clothes.

Lori: I want my clothes washed separate from yours. That way I know it was done properly.

Scott: *laughs* Oh, okay. So I do it all wrong and only my clothes should pay the price.

Lori: And since when did our guest room become your own personal workout room?

Scott: I can move it all out when we have guests over.

Lori: NO. That's not how I had it!

Scott: Okay, I'll put the weights somewhere else.

Lori: And what the hell is with your face!

Scott: *closes fridge* What do you mean?

Lori: It's scruffy. You look mean with it. Get rid of it.

Scott: Anything else you would like?

Lori: Don't be a smartass. Shave. You're supposed to be metrosexual.

Scott: *laughs* That's a new one.

Steph: *looks at Lori*

Lori: ERGH. You SUCK at fighting. *pushes Scott into fridge, walks over to counter*

Steph: *looks at carton of milk, pushes it over*

Scott: *runs over to table, grabs milk*

Lori: What'd she do now?

Scott: Lori, maybe you should tone it down a bit around Stephanie. She picks up a lot and you aren't rubbing off well on her.

Lori: Are you saying I'm a bad influence?

Scott: I'm saying you're part of the reason she's behaving the way she is.

Lori: Then help me out for once! Stop hiding in the garage. You were the one that wanted kids and the last time I checked, they weren't Christmas ornaments. You have to actually do stuff with them.

Scott: You're right. I'll try to be more hands-on.

Lori: *blinks* You're agreeing with me?

Scott: You have a valid concern.

Lori: WHAT, AND MY CONCERNS AREN'T VALID?

Scott: ...I just said your concerns were valid.

Lori: ...

Scott: Don't worry, I still love you. *leans over, kisses Lori's cheek*

Lori: *frowns*

Scott: *picks up knife, cuts fruit*

Lori: You're an ass.

Scott: Would you like some fruit?

Lori: No, I don't want some fruit.

Scott: It's good, it's pineapple.

Lori: No.

Scott: *lifts fruit, sticks it in Lori's mouth*

Lori: *blinks*

Scott: *smiles, goes back to cutting fruit*

Lori: *pulls fruit out* Is this your subtle way of telling me to shut up?

Scott: It's my way of telling you to eat more fruit.

Lori: Yuck. I don't like pineapple.

Scott: *lifts apple*

Lori: *frowns* Scott, stop being annoying. *grabs apple, places it on counter*

Scott: Here, have a banana. *hands over banana* You love them.

Lori: Fine. *grabs banana, peels it*

Scott: *slices fruit*

Lori: *rips off piece, shoves it into Scott's mouth*

Scott: *lifts eyes*

Lori: *smiles* See now if you had shaved, you wouldn't still have banana on your face.

Scott: *wipes face, swallows* Then how would I save some for later?

Lori: Ugh, Scott. *slaps Scott*

Scott: *smiling*

Steph: FOOOOOT!

Scott: Okay okay, I'm getting there. *grabs bowl, walks over to table, sits*

Steph: *reaches into bowl, grabs fruit*

Scott: She likes pineapples.

Lori: *sits* Then she's just as nutty as her father.

Steph: *drinks milk, swinging legs*

Lori: *stares at Steph* ...You don't have any other kids out there, do you?

Scott: Not that I know of.

Lori: *frowns, looks at Scott*

Scott: I'm 100% sure I have no other kids out there.

Lori: How?

Scott: Well...for one, my life has been slightly different than yours. I know the first and last names of everyone I've ever been in a relationship with and I'm not sure what this says about me but the list is very small.

Lori: Okay, I know you only dated 3 women. How many of those did you sleep with?

Scott: None.

Lori: *blinks*

Scott: *lifts cup, sips coffee*

Lori: What about that chick in that drug house you told me about?

Scott: I never said I slept with her. Her father called, it kind of ruined the mood.

Lori: But...that would mean th-

Scott: *smiles* Neat, huh.

Lori: HA HA. Stop kidding around.

Scott: I'm not.

Lori: That's impossible.

Scott: Only not.

Lori: You're lying.

Scott: No.

Lori: Scott, seriously.

Scott: What? Women weren't exactly at the top of my 'to do' list.

Lori: Cute.

Scott: *smiles*

Lori: But...but you're a man.

Scott: Yes.

Lori: A hot one.

Scott: That's a matter of opinion.

Lori: Are you actually serious?

Scott: *laughs* Lori, it's not a big deal.

Lori: *narrows eyes*

Steph: *tugs Lori's sleeve* Momma, fooot.

Lori: *looks at Steph* What?

Steph: *lifts fruit*

Scott: See? She wants you to eat healthier too.

Lori: Shut up, Finch. *grabs fruit, eats it*

Steph: *smiles*

Barbados, sewer

Anni: AH! *dives sideways*

Dane: *slams into wall*

Anni: Oh yeah you definitely treat me better than Tim. He always has bigger knives when he's trying to kill me.

Dane: You're MINE.

Anni: Hate to break it to you but I don't belong to anyone. *swings leg*

Dane: AH! *falls over*

Anni: *yanks at chain* Ugh, I'm really starting to get annoyed with this dungeon crap. *picks up knife, hacks at chain*

Dane: *kicks Anni in the ribs*

Anni: UGH!

Dane: *grabs Anni by the hair*

Anni: *screams*

Speed: HEY!

Dane: *lifts head*

Speed: *lifts gun*

Dane: *pushes knife against Anni's throat*

Anni: *looks at Speed*

Dane: I didn't think you were smart enough to find me.

Speed: Maybe you should have gotten rid of the GPS-rigged cellphone I gave you.

Dane: Go on back up.

Speed: I will. After I finish kicking your ass.

Dane: *laughs* Sorry, that's not gonna happen. *takes chain off Anni* We have a flight to catch. *backs up, dragging Anni*

Anni: Ugh.

Speed: *steps forward*

Dane: AH, ah! *presses knife against Anni*

Anni: *screams*

Dane: One more step and none of us can have her.

Speed: *lowers gun*

Dane drags Anni away

Speed: *leans against wall, lowers head, sighs* ...*frowns*

Further down tunnel

Anni: *struggling* AGH.

Dane: Shhh, we don't want your pet husband to find us.

Against wall

Speed: *looks over, lowers gun*

Dane: *dragging Anni* Up the ladder we go.

Speed: *looks around, picks up large pipe*

Dane: *grabs onto ladder*

Large clunk is heard

Dane: *looks around, loosens grip*

Anni: *blinks*

Dane: *jumps down, ties Anni to ladder* Don't go anywhere. I have a gung ho American to kill. *walks away*

Anni: *frowns*

Down tunnel

Dane: *holds knife tight, walks forward*

Speed: *clicks on flashlight, clicks off flashlight*

Dane: *looks around* Oh so we're playing games now. *turns around*

Speed: *backs up behind wall*

Dane: *walks down tunnel* You may as well give up because I know these tunnels like the back of my hand!

5 minutes later, end of tunnel

Dane: *looks down, picks up flashlight* Ha. *looks through bars* Think you can fit down there huh! Well so can I!

Speed: *pushes gun against Dane's head*

Dane: *blinks*

Speed: Put the knife down or I'll give you a blow hole.

Dane: I doubt it.

Speed: Yeah? Why's that?

Dane: To...serve and protect, is that the right one? It's like a doctor's oath.

Speed: Unfortunately for you, we're not in America and I'm not on duty. *slams Dane against bars*

Dane: Oof.

Speed: Drop the knife.

Dane: So you would betray your own ethics and murder someone.

Speed: I really don't consider blowing away the person who kidnapped and attempted to murder my wife, unethical. Maybe you would get away with that if I were younger and...actually cared.

Dane: *stares at bars* That's your problem. You don't care. Not about her.

Speed: There's where you're wrong. She changed my whole life. She keeps changing it. Everytime she smiles, everytime she laughs, everytime she cries, the way she thinks, the way she breathes...everything she is...she is the entire reason I can still feel love.

Dane: ...

Speed: I can't lose her. I'll...*angry sigh* lose myself.

Dane: *nods*

Speed: Drop it.

Dane: *drops knife*

Speed: *grabs Dane by the shirt, drags him back*

Dane: I thought you were going to kill me.

Speed: She wouldn't want me to. She's all into the peace and love type of thing so it looks like you just got lucky. Move.

Dane: *walks forward*

Speed: But if you try to get away, I will shoot your knee caps off.

Near ladder

Speed: *reaches hand down*

Anni: *lifts head, grabs Speed's hand, stands*

Speed: *unties Anni*

Anni: *grabs onto Speed*

Speed: *lowers head*

Anni: *closes eyes*

Dane: *steps away*

Speed: *staring at Anni, points gun at Dane, pulls trigger*

BAM

Dane: *screaming, falls over*

Anni: *smiles* Hey, it worked.

Speed: *smirks* 'Bout damn time. *kisses Anni*

TBC...............................

 

^^ Well he didn't actually kill the kid, he just shot him.

Thanks so much for the lovely reviews!

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Miami, house, garage, 3pm

Scott: *opens tool box*

Lori: *leaning in doorway* How did you survive it?

Scott: *grabs pliers* Survive what?

Lori: Celebacy.

Scott: *laughs*

Lori: I don't get it. You're young, handsome, rich, self-sufficient, incredibly sweet...every girl's dream. What gives?

Scott: *cuts wires*

Lori: Scott.

Scott: *sigh* Lori, it doesn't matter.

Lori: Yes it does. Why me? Out of every other girl on the planet.

Scott: I didn't love every other girl on the planet.

Lori: *lifts brows* You'd never loved anyone else either?

Scott: *stands straight, pushes hood down* Why is that so wrong?

Lori: Because it's...it's...you don't see that everyday, Scott.

Scott: I don't encounter many people like you everyday.

Lori: *stares at Scott*

Scott: *walks over, places pliers on top of tool box* Look, I didn't think it was a huge deal so I didn't think you needed to know. Besides, it doesn't change anything.

Lori: I know. It's just a little weird finding out that I'm your one true love, y'know?

Scott: *smiles*

Lori: It's...nice. I never thought I'd have anyone feel something different than hate when looking at me.

Scott: I don't see how anyone could hate you.

Lori: *laughs* If you'd met me before I got help, you probably wouldn't be saying the same thing.

Scott: Yes. I would.

Lori: *looks at Scott*

Scott: *stares at Lori*

Lori: That's um...that's very sweet.

Scott: *sits, leans against car* So Steph's down for a nap before dinner?

Lori: Yeah. *sits on floor*

Scott: *hands over bottle of water*

Lori: Thanks. *grabs water, opens it*

Scott: You okay?

Lori: ...Do I not look okay?

Scott: You seem preoccupied with something.

Lori: I want you to quit your job.

Scott: *lifts brow* I thought you were just saying that because you were on a tangent.

Lori: *shakes head*

Scott: Lori, I have to work.

Lori: No you don't. We have enough money to last a lifetime.

Scott: You think Stephanie's going to have any kind of work ethic when she's older if she looks around and sees ample money, luxuries and both parents who stay home without contributing their skills to society? We need to lead by example, regardless of how much money we have.

Lori: So...you're doing it for her.

Scott: My family has always worked very hard for what they have, no matter if they were steel workers or judges. I don't want her growing up thinking she's better than anyone else and that she doesn't have to go out there and get dirty.

Lori: *nods*

Scott: I hope that's okay.

Lori: Far be it from me to disagree with the principles that could help make her a better person.

Scott: Well, my job also does mean a lot to me too. I do enjoy my career, it keeps me relatively sane and busy. And I like that I'm giving something back.

Lori: *shrugs* I much preferred it when you were working 9-5 in Miami with nights and weekends off.

Scott: *drinks water*

Lori: But I guess I can't complain with you being in Miami for the time being.

Scott: Oh uh, that reminds me. My mother's going to be in town tonight.

Lori: *frowns*

Scott: And she doesn't want to stay at 'some poor refugee hotel' as she put it.

Lori: Does she realize Miami has some of the most posh hotels on the entire planet?

Scott: *nervous smile* Why stay there when you can crash at your son's place?

Lori: No.

Scott: Your parents stayed here.

Lori: My parents didn't insult me the entire t...okay, fine. But if she calls me a whore, I'm kicking her ass.

Scott: I would appreciate it if you didn't hurt my mother.

Lori: I'm not making any promises.

Foyer, 6pm

Scott: *opens door*

Doris: *smiles* Scotty!

Scott: *smiles* Hi Mom. *hugs Doris*

Doris: *wraps arm around Scott* Ooh are you getting taller or am I getting shorter?

Scott: Maybe it's a little of both.

Doris: *lets go* My my my. *places hand on Scott's cheek* You look as handsome as ever.

Scott: Thank you.

Doris: *looks around* Splendid home! And in a nice quiet neighborhood with people like us, too. What are we eating?

Scott: Steak and pasta.

Doris: When will the hors d'oeuvres be getting here?

Scott: *laughs* Uh, there won't be any. I can get you a glass of wine though.

Doris: I'll have a glass of merlot.

Scott: *nods* Coming right up. Feel free to make yourself at home.

Doris: *walks away*

Kitchen

Lori: *leaning against wall* Is she here?

Scott: *walks over, stops* ...Are you hiding?

Lori: Not hiding.

Scott: Lori, go say hi to her.

Lori: *grabs for wine bottle*

Scott: *takes wine bottle* You're doing this sober.

Lori: *frowns* Kill joy. *walks away*

Scott: *shakes head*

Living room

Lori: *walks over*

Doris: *lifts head*

Lori: *smiles* Hello ma'am, I brought you a glass of merlot. *places glass on coaster, sits* It's good to see you again.

Doris: *narrows eyes* Well look at you. I see my Scotty finally instilled a sense of fashion and beauty in you.

Lori: *smiling* I'll take that as a compliment.

Doris: So tell me, who takes care of little Stephanie while my Scotty is earning a living?

Lori: I do.

Doris: You haven't hired a...nanny?

Lori: What would I need with a nanny?

Doris: Well they take care of everything, dear. That way you won't be burdened with having to care for the child as I'm sure you've been doing a less than capable job.

Lori: I suppose it depends on your opinion of 'capable'.

Doris: I'm sure it differs greatly than yours.

Lori: *stares at Doris*

Doris: *sips wine*

Lori: *looks around, scratches head*

Doris: *sigh* My Scotty...still married to sewer slop. You're lucky you had his child otherwise I'm sure he would have found a respectable woman. It's a shame you felt you needed to con him into having a child to keep his money.

Lori: *lifts brows*

Doris: A disgrace to our family name.

Lori: Can I get you anything else? Perhaps some cheese and crackers?

Doris: How...quaint. Yes.

Lori: *stands* Great. *walks away*

Kitchen

Lori: *walks in, frowning*

Scott: How's it going?

Lori: I'm sewer slop.

Scott: You smell great to me.

Lori: *rolls eyes* Okay I know she's your 'mommy' and everything but if you sit there at that table tonight and say nothing to defend me, I'm divorcing you. *walks away*

Scott: *nods*

Dining room, table, 7pm

Lori: *sips water*

Doris: *eats steak*

Scott: *grabs napkin, wipes Steph's chin*

Steph: *reaches for juice*

Scott: *picks up juice box, hands it to Steph*

Steph: *wraps fingers around juice box, drinks*

Lori: *poking at plate with fork*

Doris: I visited Henry in prison the other day.

Scott: Oh, how is he?

Doris: Prison is a dreadful place. It's unsanitary.

Scott: Well he didn't go there to be pampered.

Doris: He was a respectable judge. You'd think they could afford him some luxuries.

Scott: He should know better than anyone that the law doesn't discriminate between judges and-

Lori: Sewer slop.

Scott: *nods*

Doris: You should visit him more often, you're the only child he has.

Scott: Is that what he's telling you.

Doris: I'm sure he'd love to see his granddaughter. Even if she's half related to her. *looks at Lori*

Lori: *frowns*

Scott: I don't think that's going to happen anytime soon.

Doris: Then at least visit him yourself. He's your father, afterall.

Scott: *laughs* I use that term loosely.

Doris: Whatever do you mean?

Scott: Nothing. *drinks water*

Doris: I realize he wasn't always there but-

Scott: He was never there. His career was always more important than his...*looks down at plate* family.

Lori: *stares at Scott*

Doris: He did it for you, Scotty.

Scott: I know.

Steph: *tugs Scott's shirt* Daddy sad?

Scott: *looks at Steph* No, Daddy's not sad.

Steph: *hugs Scott's arm*

Lori: *smirks*

TBC..............................

 

:angel:

Awww thanks so much for the reviews.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Miami Lab, 1 year later

Katie: *grabs folder, walking down hallway*

Speed: *walks over, follows Katie* Hey.

Katie: *lifts head* Back already? Weren't you and Anni supposed to be in California for 2 weeks?

Speed: We both had enough and decided to come back. Work was calling.

Katie: *smiles* Oooh did you have fun though?

Speed: *grabs folder* What's this?

Katie: A case.

Speed: You're working solo on a case?

Katie: No. You're working with me on a case. H heard you got back and sent this along, I almost thought he was kidding.

Speed: *looks down at folder*

Katie: We get a floater, isn't it exciting?

Speed: Why don't I ever get to work with Eric or Calleigh? Hell, I'll take Wolfe.

Katie: *smiling* Awww isn't it just like getting picked last in gym class?

Speed: *angry sigh*

Miami Library, 9:30am

Lori: *pulls book from shelf, looks down* No, that's not the one. *throws book into bin, reaches up* Ugh. *gets to tippie toes, reaches upward* Damnit. I knew I should have worn the boots with the heels. *reaches up*

Tom: *grabs book, lowers it*

Lori: ...*looks over* Oh my God! TOM?

Tom: This the one you're looking for?

Lori: Look at you!

Tom: *smiles* How are you?

Lori: I'm...I'm good. I can't believe you're here.

Tom: I could say the same thing about you.

Lori: You still live in Miami?

Tom: I'm down in Kendall now.

Lori: *lifts brows* Wow, you got a new place. That's awesome! Are things goin' well?

Tom: *nods* Yeah. *smiles* Things are going well.

Lori: *sigh* That's good to hear. You know, I kind of feel like a bit of a weirdo saying this but uh...sometimes I check the obituaries just to see if you're in there. *laughs* Morbid, I know.

Tom: Well I'm still here.

Lori: Yeah you look really great.

Tom: That's kind of you to say. And you certainly look wonderful yourself.

Lori: *stares at Tom*

Tom: ...It was good to see you again, Lori.

Lori: Likewise.

Tom: Happy reading.

Lori: Oh, *looks down at book* right. Thanks.

Tom: *walks away*

Lori: TOM!

Tom: *stops, turns around*

Lori: *runs over* How about I buy you a coffee. We can catch up a little.

Tom: *looks around*

Lori: But if you're not cool with that, we don't have to.

Tom: No. *looks at Lori* I'd like that.

Lori: *smiles* Great. There's a little place around the corner we can go to.

Tom: *nods* I'll meet you there.

Restaurant, 10am

Lori: *sips coffee*

Tom: *staring out window*

Lori: ...So are you still a cop?

Tom: *nods*

Lori: And how's that going?

Tom: Well.

Lori: *nods slowly* ...You dating anyone?

Tom: *looks at Lori*

Lori: *shrugs* It's been over a year.

Tom: I'm not currently dating anyone.

Lori: How about your daughter? Have you been able to visit her?

Tom: She died 6 months ago.

Lori: *stares at Tom*

Tom: Car accident.

Lori: I'm...sorry to hear that.

Tom: *smirks* It's okay. How's your little one?

Lori: Oh she's doin' great. She just started daycare and I've been lookin' for a job. If that doesn't pan out, I'll probably look into starting my own business. *smiles* Maybe a night club or an S&M place.

Tom: *laughs*

Lori: *smiling* Nah, probably a spa or something. You know, it's weird, Scott's been telling me I should set up some sort of treatment place for addicts or something. I mean, it's not like I'm particularily against the idea, I just don't know how I would go about doing something like that. And not to mention there's the hassle of finding qualified doctors and getting the place accredited. I'm not sure I want to invest that kind of money in something unless I know exactly what I'm doing, y'know?

Tom: I'm sure whatever you decide, it'll work out.

Lori: *nods*

Tom: *sips coffee*

Lori: *smiles* So...I know you're not dating but are you sleeping with anyone?

Tom: *lifts eyes*

Lori: With you there seems to be a difference.

Tom: You always this personal with people after not seeing them forever?

Lori: Yes.

Tom: No, I'm not sleeping with anyone.

Lori: Why not?

Tom: *leans back in booth*

Lori: What? You got all private all of a sudden?

Tom: Sorry, I haven't spoken to a lot of people about my personal life lately.

Lori: You have any friends?

Tom: No. I...*looks down at table* I work odd hours, I don't really have a lot of time for friends.

Lori: You don't go out?

Tom: *shakes head* Not very often.

Lori: You should take a few days off, have some fun.

Tom: *smirks* You make it sound so easy.

Lori: Didn't you party all the time?

Tom: I've been sober 17 months. I don't...party.

Lori: Oh. That's...good I guess. But you don't have to be a drug addict to have a little fun. There's nothing stopping you from going to a club and meeting some people, having some laughs. Right?

Tom: I'm not really interested.

Lori: *winces* ...Are you...okay?

Tom: *lifts brow*

Lori: You seem really...um...I'm not really sure. It's almost like you feel uncomfortable.

Tom: I wasn't expecting to run into you today.

Lori: *nods* Why don't we exchange phone numbers and...when you're feeling up to it, we can hang out.

Tom: *shakes head* It's not a good idea.

Lori: Why?

Tom: *laughs* Lori, we can't just pick up where we left off. And clearly Scott would have a problem with us 'hanging out'.

Lori: Scott doesn't need to know.

Tom: *looks down at table*

Lori: Look, it's not like I have a lot of friends either. I mean, Scott's away a lot for work and the only other person I ever talk to besides my mother is Stephanie. It would be nice to converse with someone outside of that circle.

Tom: No. No, I-I can't. I'm sorry. *stands* Thanks for the coffee.

Lori: *lifts head*

Tom: *walks away*

Lori: *blinks* ...You're welcome.

TBC...........................

 

Thanks so much for the reviews!

lol...I love how suspicious everyone is. :devil:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Miami Beach, 11am

Speed: *snaps photos*

Katie: *walks over, trips over sand*

Speed: *looks at Katie*

Katie: *stands, brushes off knees* Guess I should have thought twice before I wore heels to the beach.

Speed: *snaps photos*

Katie: Ewww is that male or female?

Speed: Right now it just smells.

Katie: *kneels, opens kit* You and Anni seem to be getting along great.

Speed: What, you think every marriage of mine has to crash and burn?

Katie: No, I just find it nice that you're finally in a good place with her. This is the Tim Speedle I know.

Speed: *frowns, snaps pictures*

Katie: When's the last time you spoke to Lori?

Speed: Couldn't we catch up some other time? I'm kind of busy.

Katie: No.

Speed: *angry sigh*

Katie: Let me guess, you haven't spoken to Lori but you spoke to Scott.

Speed: As a matter of fact, I haven't spoken to any of them. Why, is there some big conspiracy I should know about?

Katie: No.

Speed: Then can we get back to the case?

Katie: Sure.

Manhattan, street, near Empire State Building

Scott: *steps out of cab, shuts door*

Bob: *runs over, smiles* Hey someone looks gritty today. What's with the uh *rubs chin* 5 o'clock shadow thing?

Scott: *takes off shades* Kim wanted to see me?

Bob: I thought she sent a car. One that wasn't y'know...yellow with a number on it.

Scott: *walks away*

Bob: Hey uh, Scotty! You forgot your best pal!

Lobby

Scott: *presses elevator button*

Bob: You look snazzy today, Finch. All that VP money getting to your head?

Scott: *smiles* I've got plenty of other stuff in my head, there's no room for money up there. But I suppose you would find anything other than a t-shirt and shorts, 'snazzy'.

Bob: *looks down* This is my summer wardrobe.

Scott: *laughs*

APL Manhattan, 79th floor

Scott: *pushes door open, walks ahead*

Bob: *follows* What do you think Kim wants?

Scott: Probably to go over some numbers.

Bob: *sigh* Man I wish I could go over some numbers with her.

Scott: Down boy.

Bob: What? Productivity goes down on this floor whenever she walks into the room, you can't deny that.

Scott: Bob, you need to get a girlfriend. You know, one that you don't have to fill with air. *grabs folder from desk*

Bob: *laughs* You probably think you're very clever right now.

Scott: *knocks on door*

Bob: Hey can I come?

Scott: Sorry Bob, you have to sit this one out.

Bob: If she sends you on a fieldtrip, I get to come with though, right?

Door opens

Scott: *walks in*

Door shuts

Bob: Right?!

Inside office

Kimberly: *walks around desk, staring down at folder* How's the new head of the Miami branch doing?

Scott: Fine. The employees seem to like him.

Kimberly: He's been there 6 months and I have yet to receive a complaint.

Scott: Maybe there's nothing to complain about.

Kimberly: *lifts head* There's always something to complain about.

Scott: I've been personally overseeing his work. He's fitting in just fine.

Kimberly: I hope he keeps up the good work. The other reason I called you out here is because we'll be having a gala in 2 days for all of our new clients and your presence is required. It's relatively formal so if you didn't bring anything with you, I can have someone go out and purchase a suitable garment.

Scott: Shouldn't I have gotten an e-mail or something about this?

Kimberly: If I had told you beforehand, you would have found a way out of it.

Scott: I have nothing against galas or putting on a fake smile to be diplomatic to all of our clients. But I do have a problem with you expecting me to lie to them.

Kimberly: What's wrong with a little fib? So what if they think we're the best company in the world to be with? So what if they feel more trustworthy and decide to hand us more money. That's the whole point in marketing ourselves. No one gained popularity by claiming to be #2 in the world.

Scott: I'm not lying to our clients.

Kimberly: Did anyone ever tell you you're a pain in the ass sometimes?

Scott: Yes ma'am.

Kimberly: Good so I'm not the only one. Ugh, open a window or something, it's a hundred degrees in here.

Scott: *walks over to window, opens it*

Breeze shoots upward

Scott: *steps back*

Kimberly: *walks over to window, sits on ledge*

Scott: *looks at Kimberly*

Kimberly: *pulls out cigarette, lights it*

Scott: *scratches head*

Kimberly: *blows smoke out window*

Scott: Anything else?

Kimberly: Have a walkaround. See if our employees need anything and make sure they're doing their jobs. They're like a bunch of school children that get back in line when the principal walks in.

Scott: *nods*

Miami, Kendall, street

Lori: *gets out of truck, slams door* This ain't over, Carter.

Front step of house

Lori: *looks around* Nice place. *knocks on door*

Tom: *opens door*

Lori: *smiles* Hi there.

Tom: How did you find my house?

Lori: You have the same license plate number.

Tom: *frowns* Lori-

Lori: Come on, I just want to see the new digs. *pushes Tom's chest, walks in*

Tom: *turns around, shuts door*

Lori: *looks around* Wow. It's clean. It even smells clean. Not even a cigarette.

Tom: That's because I quit.

Lori: Oh how nice. *flops onto couch, grabs remote*

Tom: What the hell are you doing?

Lori: Testing out the big screen.

Tom: *walks over, grabs remote*

Lori: *stands, walks down hallway*

Tom: *frowns*

Bedroom

Lori: *walks in, looks around*

Tom: *walks over*

Lori: *opens drawers* Clothes, clothes...*lifts socks* gun. You keep a gun in your sock drawer?

Tom: *grabs Lori's arm, slams drawer shut* Just what do you think you're doing?

Lori: Obviously pissing you off.

Tom: You can't just come into my home and ransack the place.

Lori: *sits on bed* Sure I can. *lies on pillow* You have a real cozy bed.

Tom: Why are you doing this?

Lori: Doing what?

Tom: Pushing boundaries.

Lori: Tom Carter has boundaries? *sits up, smiles* I don't know whether to laugh or...well, laugh.

Tom: *frowning*

Lori: *stands, walks over* Someone needs to ruffle those feathers every once in a while.

Tom: My feathers are just fine.

Lori: *walks over to closet, opens it* Well this is a good sign. You actually own professional clothing other than what I bought you.

Tom: *stares at Lori*

Lori: *smiles* And colour coordinated too. I'm impressed. *turns around*

Tom: *looks down at floor*

Lori: *walks away*

Living room

Lori: *sits on couch* How do the guys treat you at work?

Tom: *sits in chair* Fine.

Lori: Tom, you can sit beside me. I don't bite.

Tom: Your husband does.

Lori: I'm allowed to have friends.

Tom: *rolls eyes* Okay. *stands, walks over, sits*

Lori: Have you done anything interesting in the past year? Gone skiing? Diving? Traveling?

Tom: I went up to Jersey a few times.

Lori: *smiles* Awesome. How was that?

Tom: About as interesting as watching water boil.

Lori: *smiling* You're just spoiled in Miami.

Tom: *smirks* I guess so.

Lori: I have got to find you a girl. *grabs Tom's arm*

Tom: *stands* Uh, where are we going?

Lori: The boardwalk. There are lots of women there. You're going to approach a few and say hi.

Tom: No I'm not.

Lori: It's easy. Just be charming and they should fall right into your lap.

Tom: If I wanted a slut, I could just stay here with you.

Lori: *laughs* Ha. Ha. This isn't about getting some ass, the goal is to talk to as many people as possible. It'll improve your interpersonal skills.

Tom: *grabs arm away, sits* I don't really feel like it.

Lori: What happened to the spice of life?

Tom: I just got finished with a double shift, I'm a little tired.

Lori: Oh. *sits* What book were you looking for at the library?

Tom: I was actually returning a book. One with a Bullet.

Lori: *lifts brows* By Gary Quinto? The one about taking down Colombian drug cartels in the 70s?

Tom: Yeah, that's the one.

Lori: I have that book!

Tom: *smiles* It's fascinating.

Lori: Isn't it? I couldn't put it down. It's amazing the amount of strategy that went into catching them and the guys evading the authorities, especially when the cessnas would fly across the ocean into Miami.

Tom: Yeah, I mean they could only fly at certain times and they wouldn't be able to refuel so they had to do it as quickly as possible. It was literally a game of hide and seek.

Lori: Man, I lived through some of the cartelling business but it was interesting to learn about that sort of...history.

Tom: *staring at Lori*

TBC........................