Alternate Path Series

ALTERNATE PATHS

The knock on the door startled Horatio. He looked up from the files he was working on, his eyes focused on the hotel suite’s front door. He hadn’t ordered dinner yet, and he wasn’t expecting any guests. No one knew he was staying at the Regency. His house had sustained damage from the last Hurricane, and he was staying at the Regency while the insurance company had the roof and second floor repaired.

The knock sounded again, curious he got up and headed for the door. He looked through the peephole, but didn’t recognize the young man on the other side. He slid back the chain, and unlocked the deadbolt.

Opening the door he was stunned momentarily at the beauty of his visitor. The young man had dark brown hair – hair that had an ‘I’ve just got thoroughly fucked’ look. The stranger had matching dark eyes that could bore into one’s soul. He was wearing black leather pants that accented long lean legs and a tight ass. A silver silk shirt molded to a defined chest. Horatio had to control the impulse to grab the young man and drag him into the suite and taste those delicious looking full lips.

“Yes?” Horatio was amazed that his voice sounded so calm and collected.

“Horatio Caine?” The young man asked, his voice soft and sultry.

Horatio suppressed a shudder, “Yes. How may I help you?”

“It’s more of what I can do for you,” He grinned, easing past Horatio and into the suite.

Horatio closed the door behind him and turned towards the walking sex god. “Who are you?”

“Tim,” He answered as he looked around the room taking in the surroundings.

“What are you doing here?” Horatio asked, arms crossed over his chest to prevent himself from touching.

“That’s up to you,” Tim turned towards him. “I’m yours for the night. I can do whatever you want.”

Horatio’s mouth dropped, “What?” He stammered in shock.

Tim smirked as he walked up to Horatio, “Whatever you want – I’ll do. Want me to blow you? Want to fuck me? Or I can fuck you? Tonight – I’m yours.”

“But…” Horatio stammered, and then promptly shut his mouth to keep from babbling and making a complete fool of himself.

“Horatio Caine?” Tim stepped back looking at Horatio through hooded eyes, Horatio nodded. “Regency Suite 2C?” Horatio nodded again. “Then I’m in the right place and you’re the right person.” He opened his arms wide, the silk spreading tight against his chest. “This means, I’m yours to do whatever you wish.”

Horatio stood dumb founded, “But…But, I didn’t order you.”

“Look,” Tim sighed. “Someone paid good money for me to be here. If you want me to leave I can – I’ll just go home, it really doesn’t matter to me. I’ve already been paid.”

Horatio dropped his arms, his hands settling on his waist pushing back his suit coat. “Shit,” Tim glanced at the badge and gun. “You’re a cop. No offer was made, no money exchanged, so…” Tim headed for the door.

Horatio caught his arm, “Wait.” Horatio looked into deep brown eyes.

Tim turned around and looked at the hand holding his arm. He could feel the heat through the silk. A small frown appeared on his face, a client’s touch had never affected him this way. He looked into Horatio’s blue eyes, “You’re not going to arrest me?”

“Like you said, no money was exchanged,” Horatio stepped back away from the young man. He should let him walk out the door, this was a complication he didn’t need, but there was something about Tim. “I was just going to order some dinner, are you hungry?”

Tim looked around the room, suspiciously. He looked for a trap, but his gut told him that Horatio was upfront and honest, “A bit.”

“Good,” Horatio picked up the phone and ordered two steak dinners, with a bottle of red wine, “Should be up in forty-five minutes.”

“In the meantime?” Tim grinned sliding up next to Horatio. He could tell his presence rattled the man.

Horatio took a step back trying to get control of his body, “You don’t know who arranged this?”

Tim smiled slyly, letting Horatio move away from him, “No.” He walked towards the suite’s balcony. “I just got a name, place and time.” He turned back towards Horatio. “Either someone thinks you need to get laid or you’re just playing coy.”

“I don’t play,” Horatio’s eyes bore into Tim’s. Tim refused to look away – he felt pulled towards this man.

“Then you have interesting friends,” Tim smirked at Horatio easing the tension between them. “I don’t come cheap, especially for the full night.”

“So you’re a…” Horatio gestured with his hands.

“Whore? Gigolo? Escort?” Tim smirked at him, “Which one, exactly, were you referring to?”

“Escort,” Horatio sat down on one of the suite’s couches.

Tim smiled as he settled himself across from Horatio, “Why do you want to know?”

“Curious,” Horatio shrugged, wanting to know more about the man sitting across from him. “What makes someone do this?”

“Sell myself, my body?” Tim leaned back into the seat. “I learned fast that everyone wanted something from me – most of them took. At least now I get my money’s worth.”

Horatio looked at him. Tim was laid back, at ease with himself and the situation. He held a sense of confidence within him. Tim knew men and women wanted him – and he made them pay for it.

“It’s not as bad as you think,” Tim smiled at the scrutiny he was getting.

“Do you work a particular clientele?” Horatio asked, wishing for something to drink to distract him from the chocolate brown eyes.

“Do you mean in particular by man or woman? No, I don’t.” Tim stood back up and walked around the suite. “Are you visiting Miami?”

“Nope,” Horatio watched the young man observe the room. “Born and raised here in Miami.”

“Then why a hotel?” Tim turned towards him. “Don’t want a high price escort coming to your home?”

Horatio stood up from the couch, “I didn’t order you.” Horatio took a step towards him, but stopped. He leaned up against the balcony door instead and watched Tim study the room and him.

“So you say,” Tim’s eyes took in the room. “You’re not a beat cop so what do you do? Internal Affairs? Detective? CSI?”

Horatio opened his mouth to respond, impressed by his deduction skills, when a knock on the door broke the atmosphere, “Dinner.”

Tim nodded as Horatio answered the door. He told the waiter to set the food on the small table, he noticed that Tim had disappeared into the shadows not to be seen – discretion. Horatio walked the waiter out, when he closed the door Tim was standing by the small table. Tim’s eyes never left Horatio “Looks good enough to eat.”

Horatio took a deep breath willing his body to cooperate with him, and not focus on the leather clad ass less than two feet from him. “Sit,” Horatio motioned at the chair. “Eat, you’re very thin.”

“Have to keep the clientele happy,” Tim sat down across from Horatio, a smile on his face. He was walking a fine line with the redhead. He was attracted to him, felt at ease with him – wanted nothing more for Horatio to fuck him into the mattress. It was not good to get worked up over a client no matter the circumstances.

“Large clientele?” Horatio asked, putting a napkin in his lap.

“A noticeable one,” Tim shrugged as he picked up his fork. He speared a piece of broccoli, eating it slowly.

“Do you enjoy your work?” Horatio asked, his eyes asking more than his words.

“To a point. Depends on the client – some I enjoy more than others.” Tim picked up a roll tearing it a part, nibbling on the torn pieces. “Not all of my clients are sex crazed middle aged house-wives or businessmen. I have a few clients that just want companionship, an act of intimacy, instead of just sex.”

“How did you get into it?” Horatio leaned back in his chair. He wanted to know how this man could end up an escort – a man who sold his body for money. He could see the potential in him, and wanted to know what stopped him from being anything other than what he was.

Tim paused. He set the unfinished roll on the plate. He looked up at Horatio. There was something about this man, something that made Tim want to tell him everything. “I lost someone close to me.”

Horatio’s head cocked to the side, “I’m not seeing the connection.”

Tim gave a sad tired smile. Horatio realized instantly that he had just got a glimpse of the man behind the leather/silk façade. Tim continued, not looking directly at Horatio but instead out the window. “When he died I lost it. I did anything and everything to stop the pain I was feeling: alcohol, meaningless sex, drugs. I ended up in Miami, with a heroin addiction and no money. I started doing tricks so I could score drugs to get high and forget. Jack found me on the streets. He was Billy’s Uncle…”

“Billy?” Horatio listened intently. Knowing he was being privy to information most of his clients weren’t, he felt honored by the trust Tim was showing him.

“My lover, my best friend, my life.” Tim’s voice was soft and lost in memories. “Jack pulled me off the streets, got me clean and sober. He helped me come to grips with losing Billy.” Tim turned back towards Horatio, “He introduced me to someone at the CSI Lab’s. I had found the work interesting, and wanted to know more. I had finally found something I could do, something I could be proud of, something I could live for.”

“Whom did you talk to?” Horatio wondered, wondering why he wasn’t working with the young man at the labs, but instead sitting in a hotel room with an escort who had been paid to show up at his hotel room.

“Megan Donner,” Tim looked back away from Horatio. His tone changed from contemplative to a deep pain. “I went back to school and finished my degree. Worked my ass off to do two years in one. Even graduated with honors.” Tim smirked at Horatio. He could hear the pride in Tim’s voice. “I did everything she said I had to do, but it wasn’t enough.” Tim paused, taking a deep breath, “When I came back to Miami and turned in my application for an intern position. I was turned down, my past came back to haunt me. When I asked her about it, she said that the Miami-Dade Crime Lab didn’t hire junkie whores.”

Horatio’s mouth dropped in shock, that didn’t sound like the Megan he knew. “That can’t be right…”

A dry humorous laugh escaped him, “What? A CSI doesn’t make decisions based on personal feelings? It took me a while, but I figured out why she denied my application and later black listed me with any lab in the area.”

Horatio stared at him, “Black listed…” Horatio asked in shock. Megan was not a vindictive person or at least he thought.

“I tried to get work at the University labs, the bio-labs in the area, any type of lab work but none would hire me, because of my background. I couldn’t be trusted around chemicals.” Tim rolled his eyes at the notion.

“Why?” Horatio felt a surge of anger go through him. He saw in front of him a potential asset to the lab. He could see the skills, the drive, and Megan squashed it and he wanted to know why.

“Before I got clean, her husband was one of my tricks. She didn’t want a reminder of his infidelity.” Tim shrugged trying to forget the lost opportunity.

Horatio sat stunned, “And now?” he asked, trying to stay calm. His instinct was to get on the phone and chew Megan out. That she had destroyed a career because of her personal situation.

“I couldn’t get work, and blockbuster was paying the bills,” he smirked at Horatio. “Jack became ill, his insurance and retirement wasn’t enough to cover the bills and treatments. His wife Pam had never worked a day in her life, and she was needed to take care of him. He needed money to pay the mortgage or they would lose the house. As cliché as it sounds – I decided to turn some tricks so I could pay the mortgage. They had done so much for me, I had to help them anyway I could.”

“I…” Horatio shook his head in disgust with the situation.

“Nothing for you to be sorry for,” Tim gave him a small smile. “I didn’t go back to the streets, instead I went to a few clubs. Someone noticed me, and set me up. That was about eight years ago.”

Horatio smiled, his head bowed, “Nice slide over.”

“Thanks,” Tim grinned back. “I didn’t get this far without knowing what not to say.”

“If you could now?” Horatio asked, and then paused. “I mean if you could, would you still want to be a CSI?”

“No,” Tim shook his head. “It’s a part of my life that is over.”

“You can’t keep doing this,” Horatio pointed out.

“No, I can’t,” Tim, agreed. “But I have retirement plans. Like I said, I’m not cheap.”

Tim stood up, took a few steps towards Horatio, sliding slowly into his lap, “What do you want?” Tim’s voice dropped into a low sultry tone. His eyes clearly indicated what he wanted. Horatio’s hands rested against leather-clad thighs, the warmth spreading up his arms. He knew he wanted this man, but he couldn’t take him up on the offer.

“I can’t,” Horatio leaned back trying to ignore the hardness he felt against his leg.

“Why not?” Tim leaned forward, his breath whispered against Horatio’s lips. His hips rocked against Horatio. Tim could feel Horatio’s interest in him. He wanted this man and wanted him badly. He would deal with the consequences of this need later.

“I won’t have sex with someone who was paid for it,” Horatio swallowed. The temptation was becoming too strong to resist.

“If it makes you feel better, I would bed you without payment.” Tim’s hands slipped down Horatio’s shoulders onto his chest. “You’re a handsome man, easy to talk to – I can feel the passion under the calm exterior.”

“Tim,” Horatio breathed before Tim’s lips captured his. He melted into the kiss, feeling the passion rise between them. His hands slipped under Tim’s shirt feeling the smooth skin. Horatio pulled back painfully, “I can’t.”

Tim pulled back his dark eyes full of a mixture of emotions, “And if we had met in a bar?” Tim asked, wondering if there could be something here, something elusive.

Horatio groaned at the thought, “But we didn’t.”

Tim stood up, his eyes cast down, “Then I should go.” He willed himself to calm down and started for the door. He had to get away from Horatio before he did something foolish, like chuck everything out the window and beg to be taken.

Horatio followed him to the door, “I…” He didn’t know what to say. He didn’t want him to go, but couldn’t consciously take him up on his offer. Maybe – just maybe if they had met some other place – some other time.

“Ever get a feeling that you were meant to meet someone no matter the paths your lives took?” Tim turned towards Horatio, his eyes bright with underlying emotion.

“Yes,” Horatio breathed. His hand slipped into Tim’s hair, enjoying the silky feeling between his fingers.

“You’re a good man Horatio Caine,” Tim pulled him in for a slow long kiss. “I could easily fall in love with you.” And that was the problem, Tim concluded to himself.

“See me away from all of this,” Horatio slipped his arm around Tim’s waist pulling him closer. He hated the begging tone in his voice, but he needed this man.

“It won’t work,” Tim slipped out of his arms feeling cold all of the sudden. “You have your career – I have mine. The two do not mix.”

“Retire,” Horatio stated, not wanting to give up this man that had affected his life in the three hours they were together.

“It’s not time,” Tim gave him a sad smile. “What would your colleagues say when they find out I was a high priced whore?”

“I don’t care,” Horatio responded honestly, and he meant it.

“I do,” Tim opened the door and stepped outside. He needed to get away fast. Before he turned around to do just what Horatio wanted. “Thanks for dinner.”

“Tim,” Horatio stepped towards him.

Tim held up his hand, stopping his forward movement, “Alternate paths.”

Horatio shook his head in confusion, “What?”

“We are on alternate paths,” Tim smiled sadly. “Only to meet at a crossroads and then continue down our separate paths.”

“I don’t believe that,” Horatio stared at him. “We make our own paths.”

“And if Megan had hired me?” Tim asked his head cocked in question. “Where would we be?”

“In my bed,” Horatio’s blue eyes locked with his.

“Are you sure? For all we know I could have died in the line of duty.” Tim caressed Horatio’s cheek then kissed the man softly. It was sweet and painful – full of hope, regret and a touch of possibility. “May one day our paths cross again.”

Horatio watched with a pain in his heart as Tim walked down the hallway towards the elevator. Tim gave him a true smile as the elevator doors closed. Horatio stood in the hallway, his eyes focused on the closed elevator doors. It had only taken three hours for a stranger to steal his heart.

CROSSROADS

Horatio stared at the invitation with hatred. “No matter how much you glare at it, it’s not going to go away.” Horatio looked up from his desk to see Megan Donner standing at his office door.

He sighed, controlling his initial response – which was to throw accusations at her, every time he saw her. It had been six weeks since meeting Tim, and not a day, a minute went by when he didn’t think about the young man. He would look around the lab and wonder what it could have — should have been like. Imagined him wearing casual clothes wearing a lab coat working on cases with Eric, Calleigh or Ryan. Wondering what field he would be good at, yet knowing deep down Tim’s specialty would have been Trace, a little bit of everything. Each day he looked at Megan, and wondered if she even cared that she had destroyed a man’s career and future because she couldn’t see past her husband’s infidelity.

“You okay?” Megan asked with concern on her face. “You seem distant. Actually, you’ve been quiet for the past few weeks. What’s going on with you?”

“Nothing,” Horatio gave her a tight smile.

“Horatio, I know you.” She smiled at him walking farther into his office. “Tell me what’s going on?”

Horatio looked up at her, “Something personal.”

“You can talk to me,” Megan smiled at him, encouraging him to confide in her.

“No, I can’t.” Horatio looked back down at the invitation. “Do I have to go?” He held up the invitation in disgust. “I hate these things.”

“Yes, you have to go.” Megan informed him, a small frown on her face. “And what do you mean you can’t?”

Horatio looked at her. “It means, I can’t. Drop it, Megan.” Horatio stood up from behind his desk. “If you excuse me I need to find Ryan.”

“Horatio…” Megan laid a hand on his arm.

Horatio pulled his arm back, “Megan…just leave it.”

“What did I do to piss you off?” She demanded stepping in front of him.

“Megan,” Megan turned to see her husband waking up with their two-year-old in his arms.

“Shawn,” She smiled at him, taking the little girl from his arms.

Horatio nodded at the happy couple, “Excuse me.”

Megan watched Horatio walk down the hallway. She wasn’t sure what was going on, but she noticed a shift in his attitude these past weeks. She admitted it had been difficult after she had come back from an extended maternity leave, to have Horatio as the boss, but over time they worked it out. Lately, he had been distant from her, and she didn’t understand why.

“What’s his problem?” Shawn asked with a look of disgust on his face. He never really gotten along with Horatio, but lately the man was down right cold to him.

“Not sure,” Megan shrugged; then turned to her daughter. “How’s my little girl?”

~*~

“Tim,” The voice was soothing and soft. “Why do you keep seeing him?”

“Because he pays good money and asks for me specifically,” Tim answered, easing himself into the bathtub.

“And each time he gets rougher and rougher – hurting you.” Tim looked up at the older woman with a small smile on his face. She took good care of him.

She was one of his clients that he enjoyed being with. She had lost her husband a few years ago, and a friend suggested an escort to take away those lonely nights. Tim had been the one who had showed up at her front door. She had no idea what to expect or what to do with him. He had explained that he was there for her and would do whatever she wanted. They ended up having coffee and cake as she told him stories of her late husband. Never once had he taken her to bed, all she wanted was companionship.

“Stella,” Tim sighed then winced when he moved too suddenly.

“Tim,” Stella’s tone indicated he shouldn’t be arguing with her. She handed him some aspirins and water. “Take these, they will help with the pain.”

“It’s not that often,” Tim muttered as he swallowed down the pills.

“How many times this year?” She demanded as she sat on the edge of the bathtub. She poured some bath oils into the water to sooth his aching muscles.

“Six,” He looked away from her accusing blue eyes – blue eyes that reminded him of someone else.

“And it’s July,” Stella pointed out as she lit relaxing aromatherapy candles around the tub. “You see him once a month, Tim. And each time it’s gotten worse. He tore you this time, you should report him.”

“To who?” Tim looked at her, exasperated. “I can’t call the cops – I’m being paid to spread them.”

“You can’t tell me Robert is fine with one of his clients injuring his staff?” She demanded. Tim looked down away from Stella’s gaze, “You did tell Robert, didn’t you?”

“He pays good money,” Tim looked at her, eyes pleading. “I’ll be able to retire sooner.”

“Damn it! Speed, he hurt you badly this time!” Stella stood up and paced around the bathroom.

Tim looked at her with a slight smile in his eyes. “Okay, now I know you’re pissed at me. You called me Speed.”

She sat back down and glared at him, “I’m calling Robert!” Then stood back up and went into the bedroom.

Tim leaned back, wincing in pain as his back settled against the bathtub wall. He knew there was no stopping her. She was like a bulldog. She had been paying him for his services once a week for the past three years, he had told her she hadn’t needed to pay. That she was a close friend and he enjoyed her company. She had shaken her head, telling him that she would pay. It was her way of getting him to retire sooner.

He had once secretly entered her courtroom to watch her on the bench, and decided he never wanted to cross her. She was a powerful woman to reckon with, one with clout and prestige. He always worried if someone were to find out about him, even though their relationship was innocent – voters wouldn’t see it that way. Once again she had smacked him and told him to concentrate on retiring.

He made it a habit, when he had to deal with difficult clients or the ones he least liked, he would arrange to have tea or lunch with her afterwards. She had a way of making him feel human again, not so dirty or cheap.

He leaned his head back, grimacing at the pain once again. She was right, Paul had hurt him badly this time. Paul was a fairly new client that preferred things a bit rough. Lately he had gotten rougher, and Tim had been leaving with bruises. The first time Stella had seen the bruise she went ballistic, the second time her eyes just narrowed. He should have realized showing up torn and battered wouldn’t sit well with her. Paul had done a number on him; he was going to have rescheduled with some of his clients so he could take time to heal.

He closed his eyes and let the warm water soothing his aching muscles. His thoughts drifted back to six weeks ago. He sighed, his heart aching for a man that had stolen his heart in three hours. A man that had broken through his walls, and planted himself in Tim’s heart and wasn’t letting go. Many times he had been tempted to contact him, but Horatio didn’t need him as a complication. Tim sighed deeply, the rate things were going he could retire in a year – maybe then.

“Robert’s pissed at you,” Stella smoothed the unruly bangs out of his face. “He wants to know why you didn’t tell him after the first time.”

“I didn’t think about it,” Tim kept his eyes closed. “It wasn’t the first time a client had gotten rough.”

“But the second, third, and fourth?” Stella demanded.

Tim just took a deep breath, “I’ll call Robert tomorrow. Right now I’m just going to relax and enjoy your company.”

“Can you go out?” She asked as she soothed back his hair.

Tim opened his eyes, “Why?”

“There’s this function tonight,” She rolled her eyes, “Some stupid city, police force task thing. I would like you to go with me.”

“You do realize you’re not my only client that works in law enforcement.” Tim informed her. “What if someone recognized me and realized you had a paid escort with you?”

“But if they recognized you, they would know what you are, which means they would have to explain how they know what you are and that would be too embarrassing for them.” She explained. “And it would give all those fuddy duddys something to talk about. How I landed such a handsome man.”

Tim rolled his eyes and smiled, “I should be fine for tonight.”

“Good, I have a tux already picked out.” She grinned at him. “Now you relax in this tub, and after, get some rest. I’ll wake you when it’s time to get ready.”

Tim nodded, his eyes closing as he settled into the water. He could hear her fixing up the bathroom and closing the door slightly as she left him alone. His thoughts once again drifted to a blue-eyed redhead as a stray thought skirted across his mind – he could be there. Tim’s eyes jerked open, this was not a good idea.

~*~

“I don’t want to go,” Horatio glared at the blonde woman standing in front of him.

“Horatio, you have to go. We all have to go, so stop whining!” Calleigh fixed his bow tie. “How come you didn’t ask Yelina to go with you?”

Horatio looked down at her, “She’s going with Rick.”

“Stetler?” Calleigh stepped back in shock. “IAB? You’re okay with this?”

Horatio grinned, “I set them up.”

Calleigh laughed, “So explain to me how the two of you are friends?”

“I saved his ass,” Horatio smirked at her, and then turned and looked at the ballroom. “I show up, say hello, and leave.”

“Horatio Caine,” Alexx stepped up to the two CSI’s. “You will do no such thing.”

“I really don’t want to go,” Horatio knew he was acting like a five-year-old but he really didn’t want to go to his shindig.

“Too bad,” Alexx smirked at him as she took his arm. “Calleigh grab his other arm or he’ll bolt before we hit the ballroom doors.”

Horatio rolled his eyes at the two women, “Where’s Peter?” He asked Alexx, and then turned to Calleigh, “And Eric?”

“Parking the cars,” Both women stated at the same time.

Horatio bowed his head, he knew when he was outnumbered. “Fine, let’s go. I’ll be honored to escort two beautiful ladies.”

“Hey, hands off my wife,” Peter walked up smiling. “Good to see you Horatio.”

“Peter,” Horatio handed Alexx over to Peter, looking around for the tall Cuban. “Now where’s Eric?”

“Hey, no getting rid of me,” Calleigh smirked up at him.

Horatio smiled at her, a laugh on his lips. His smile faded as he turned and looked around the lobby, he had felt someone staring at him. He blinked, dark brown eyes stared back at him from across the room. Horatio stood in shock as he watched Tim turn and take an older woman’s hand. She beamed up at him, and led him towards the ballroom. Horatio’s eyes followed the two across the lobby into the ballroom.

“Who’s he?” Calleigh asked pulling Horatio out of his trance.

“What?” Horatio looked down at her, confusion on his face.

“Who’s he? You were staring at him for a few minutes.” Calleigh glanced towards the ballroom. “And what’s he doing with Judge Withers?”

“I don’t know,” Horatio gave her a weak smile. “Excuse me.” He dropped her arm and headed for the restrooms. He needed to get himself together, seeing Tim had just turned his evening upside down. He really didn’t need to be reminded of what Tim did for a living. He knew exactly what Tim was doing with Judge Withers. She was paying him to be there. And that was information he really didn’t need to know.

Horatio leaned against the wall, his breath harsh to his ears. He took a few deep breaths, and got his emotions into check and headed into the ballroom, maybe if he was lucky he wouldn’t see him for the rest of the night. Who was he kidding – if he was lucky Tim would back him into a corner and kiss him senseless. If he was really lucky he would get a coat closet where he could fuck Tim senseless.

~*~

Tim kissed Stella on the cheek and headed straight for the bar. Seeing Horatio was bad enough, seeing him with a beautiful woman hurt – badly. He ordered a white wine for Stella and a club soda for himself. He would just piss off Stella if he got plastered. She was one of the few that knew of his past addictions with alcohol and drugs.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Tim cringed at the voice from his past.

“Mrs. Donner,” Tim turned and leaned against the bar. This was just topping off his day. “How’s your husband? Heard you have a little girl now.”

She frowned at him, “What are you doing here?”

“I’m here as a guest,” Tim turned and took the two drinks. “So if you will excuse me.”

Megan growled as he walked by her, “Does your date know what you were?”

Tim couldn’t help but grin back at her, “And some.”

Tim set the drink down at the table, smiling softly at Stella. She glanced at him with a worried look on her face, “Tim?”

“Dance?” He held his hand out to her. “But, it will cost you extra.”

She laughed as she took his hand, “I don’t know why you don’t like to dance, you’re very good at it.”

Tim shrugged as he led her out to the dance floor, “I don’t like people watching me.”

Stella looked at him carefully as she was pulled into his arms, “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” He guided her around the dance floor.

“Tell me,” she pushed. “You haven’t been the same these past few weeks. Something has been on your mind.”

“It’s just…” He looked up to see Horatio watching him from one of the tables. He shifted guiding Stella farther away from those piercing blue eyes. “I’m tired.”

“Who is he?” Stella asked softly. She always knew that if someone stole Tim’s heart it would be a man. She just wondered who had finally done it.

“What?” Tim was startled by her question.

“You met someone,” She smiled at him. “I know you, Tim. Who is he?”

“Someone I can’t have,” He gave her a sad smile. He looked across the room, his heart contracting as he watched Horatio chat with the beautiful blonde.

~*~

“Horatio Caine if you don’t tell me who he is, I’ll march right over there and ask.” Calleigh demanded her tone indicating that she would just go and do that.

Horatio turned back towards her, “It’s nothing. Leave it alone Callie.”

She cocked her head, her look indicating she didn’t believe him, and wouldn’t just leave it. “You’ve been pinning here all night.”

“I’m not pining,” Horatio shot back at her. The whole table looked at him, “Not a word!”

“What is with this guy?” Ryan demanded, the table turned and looked at him. “If it isn’t Horatio pining over him, Megan is shooting daggers at him.”

Horatio turned his head to see Megan glaring towards Tim, “Excuse me.” Horatio stood up and headed for the bar. He stepped up to the bar and asked for a scotch on the rocks. He turned back around just in time to see Judge Withers walking towards him. He plastered a smile on his face and tried hard not to think of ways to hide the body.

“Lieutenant Caine,” She smiled up at him. “It’s always pleasant to talk with you.”

“Judge Withers,” He smiled at her as he leaned against the bar. “Enjoying your evening?”

“It’s Stella. How many times do I have to tell you?” She laid a hand on his arm. He tried not to shake it off, knowing the same hand had touched Tim.

“Stella,” Horatio grinned at her. “Who’s your guest?”

She smirked a bit, he could see the hidden joke inside her eyes, “son of a close friend. Figured, I would have a bit of fun bringing a younger man.” She laughed slightly.

“You two seemed to be enjoying yourself on the dance floor,” Horatio held his tongue in cheek. Last thing he needed was to piss off a judge.

Stella looked at him carefully, “He’s a great dancer, though he hates doing it.”

Horatio heard a commotion, and looked over to see Megan arguing with Tim. Stella’s eyes narrowed a bit, he was surprised at her reaction. “Excuse me.”

Horatio watched as Stella marched gracefully over to the table. She inserted herself between Tim and Megan, her body language obvious to everyone around her that she was one pissed off judge. Horatio smiled slightly, it seemed someone was territorial and protective of their escort. He watched in humor as Megan paled, turned and stormed off.

~*~

“Tim?” Stella sat down next to him; she placed her hand on his.

“I’m sorry,” Tim looked up with a smile on his face. “I didn’t mean to cause a scene.”

“Old girlfriend?” She grinned trying to get him to smile. She frowned at his pale expression.

“Before my time with Robert I worked the streets,” His voice was quiet, reflective.

Stella laid a hand on his cheek, “She knew you then?”

“No, I knew her husband.” He smirked a bit, though his eyes held no humor.

Stella nodded in understanding, “If she bothers you let me know I’m friends with her boss, Lieutenant Caine.”

It took every inch of his composure not to respond to that name. He took a deep breath, so he had told his torrid tale to Donner’s boss – supervisor of the crime lab. “Now don’t go calling favors for me, I’m not worth it. Besides, I’ve had worse things said to me.”

“You’re worth more than you think,” Stella gave him a bright smile. “If only you would see that. Now tell me, who stole your heart?”

Tim looked down, not trusting himself to look up and not focus on Horatio, giving it away to Stella. “Nothing you can do about it, so don’t worry about it.” Tim’s phone rang, startling him slightly. “Sorry.”

“No problem, I understand.” She took a deep breath. She wanted to chuck the phone out the window, and tell Robert to go screw himself – Tim was not available.

Tim snapped his phone shut, irritated. He turned towards Stella with a frown on his face, “Stella…”

Stella closed her eyes; she took a deep breath and looked back up at him, “You’re not in any shape to be meeting…” She looked around making sure she wasn’t overheard.

“They asked for me specifically, the meeting is here in the hotel.” Tim sat down across from her. “I have to go. Besides I have ways of pleasing…”

“Doesn’t mean I have to like it,” Stella whispered harshly. “I want you to retire! You’re too good of a man for this.”

Tim smiled at her, “Thank you.”

“Lunch tomorrow?” She laid a hand on his arm.

“I wouldn’t miss it for anything.” Tim gave her a warm smile and left the ballroom. Stella watched him leave a frown on her face. She sighed and glanced around the room, she noticed another watching Tim leave. A sudden smile formed on her face. Maybe retirement for Tim might come sooner than she thought.

~*~

Tim’s back was to the penthouse door, when he heard the door open and close. He turned slowly, putting on his most dazzling smile. He stopped mid turn in shock, he was the last person he had expected to see, “Either your friend really wants you to get laid or you’re truly playing coy with me.”

Horatio paused as he looked over at Tim, “I don’t play.”

Horatio closed the distance between the two men. He looked into Tim’s eyes and only saw passion and lust. A nod from Tim had Horatio pulling him into his arms kissing Tim deeply. Tim moaned into the kiss, opening his mouth under the assault. His hand reached into Horatio’s hair gripping at the short strands as the two battled over dominance. It was like the six weeks had never happened. Two souls came together as if they were meant to be one.

Tim pulled back taking in deep breaths of air, “What are you doing here?”

“Someone slipped a key into my pocket,” Horatio buried his head into Tim’s neck. “I decided to check it out. You?”

“I was given a time and place,” Tim stepped out of Horatio’s embrace. “You do realize that someone is paying me to be here?”

Horatio’s head dropped as he nodded, and then looked up at Tim. “What about Judge Withers?” Horatio asked, his eyes bearing into Tim’s eyes.

“She’s a friend,” Tim answered honestly, turning away from Horatio to look back out the patio door.

“How good of a friend?” Horatio asked as he stepped closer to him.

“As good as the blonde,” Tim responded back, a challenge in his voice.

“Calleigh is a friend. She works at the lab with me.” Horatio smiled at him. “There’s nothing between us, her boyfriend would be very upset if there was.”

Tim looked down, a sense of relief washed over him. “Stella loves her late husband. I take her shopping, have lunch, and make her day a bit more special.”

Horatio nodded understanding the two’s relationship, “She’s one of your clients that only wants companionship.”

“She’s a friend, a close friend.” Tim turned around and looked at Horatio. “Why didn’t you tell me you knew who Megan was?”

“I didn’t feel it was appropriate,” Horatio hand caressed his cheek.

Tim stepped back, “Not appropriate! I told you my life story and you didn’t think it was appropriate to inform me – you were her boss.”

Horatio took a deep breath, “In truth I had a hard time believing she would do that, but before you interrupt.” Horatio cocked his head a bit, locking eyes with Tim. “I also knew there was no reason for you to lie. You had no idea I worked for the crime lab. And then you were gone.”

Tim looked down, “That was one of the hardest things I had ever done.”

Horatio pulled Tim into his arms, taking the delicious mouth into a slow gentle exploring kiss. He felt Tim pull him towards the suite’s bedroom. He knew he shouldn’t do this, Tim was still being paid to be there, but he couldn’t resist, not this time. Agile hands slid off his tuxedo coat, the bow tie and vest went next. By the time they reached the bed, Tim had him down to his shirt and pants. Tim looked up with a sly smile on his face. Horatio groaned and dived in for another kiss. He was becoming addicted to Tim’s mouth.

Tim stepped back away from Horatio, his eyes serious, “You know someone’s paying me to be here?”

Horatio nodded once again, “Yes, I know.”

“I’m being paid to have sex with you,” Tim slipped off his coat while he spoke, his tie and vest following quickly.

“I can’t walk away this time,” Horatio answered honestly. “You’ve haunted my days and nights these past six weeks.”

Tim grinned, “At least I wasn’t the only one.” He slipped off his shirt revealing a toned chest to Horatio.

Horatio moaned deeply, his hands reaching out to touch, to caress the exposed chest. “God, you’re beautiful.” Horatio pushed Tim back onto the bed, a sly grin on his face. It turned quickly to concern when he saw a grimace of pain across Tim’s face. “What’s wrong?”

Tim tensed slightly, and then gave Horatio a bright smile, “Nothing just landed a bit wrong.” He smirked up at the redhead. “Now come here, I’m dying to know how much red hair you have.”

Horatio laughed as he climbed onto the bed, his mouth finding and claiming one of Tim’s nipples. He licked and tasted each equally enjoying the sounds coming out of Tim’s mouth. “Tim…”

“Speed,” Tim breathed.

Horatio looked up with a confused expression, “Speed?”

“It’s who I am,” his eyes were bright and open. “A nickname my friends and people close to me use. My clients call me Tim.”

Horatio understood the significance of the name, “Speed.” He tried it out on his tongue. “It fits you. One day you will have to tell me where you got it.”

“Right now, I have more important things to do with my mouth than talk,” Speed smirked at him. His hands working on Horatio’s shirt trying to get the offending material off – he finally gave up and ripped the damn thing. He just smirked at a bemused Horatio. “Add it to my expense account.” He muttered claiming Horatio’s lips, his fingers trailing along the now exposed chest.

Horatio laughed into the kiss, enjoying the sensations Speed was creating. He ground his hips down into Speed’s, eliciting a strangled moan from the man’s throat. Horatio’s hand rested on Speed’s hip pulling it up, rocking their groins together. Horatio pulled back, this time detecting the tense muscles and small moan of pain.

“Speed?” Horatio’s eyes bore into dark brown eyes.

“It’s nothing,” Speed took a deep breath willing his muscles to cooperate. Damn it, he wasn’t going to let this ruin his chance with Horatio. He locked his leg around Horatio’s thigh pulling their groins tight against each other, a gasp of pleasure echoed between the two of them.

Horatio unhooked Speed’s leg from his thigh, his eyes never leaving Speed’s face. His hands laid small points of pressure along Speed’s hips. Speed couldn’t hide his discomfort. “Let it go, please Horatio. I want this. I want you.”

Horatio sat back on his calves, “I’m not going to hurt you. Lift up,” Horatio unhooked Speed’s pants; he slowly slid the pants and silk boxers off of Speed’s hips and down his legs. Horatio smiled at the silk boxers, Speed just shrugged. Horatio’s hands caressed back up his legs a fleeting touch over thighs and groin. The small bruises on the hips caught his eyes, a frown formed on his face. He looked up to Speed’s face. Speed lowered his eyes and looked away. “Turn over.”

“Horatio,” Speed voice quivered slightly.

“Now, Speed.” Horatio’s tone made sure there would be an argument.

Speed turned over wincing slightly at the discomfort on his lower back and hips. He buried his head into the pillows. Horatio closed his eyes, dark bruises were forming – a perfect pattern of a hand and fingerprints where they had dug into smooth skin.

“Speed?” Horatio’s voice was soft and full of emotion.

Speed looked back at the redhead, “One of my clients – he…likes it a bit rough.”

Horatio looked at him, “Rough! Speed this is practically rape!”

“I’m fine,” Speed shifted back around to face Horatio. “Can’t we just, for this night, forget what I do for a living?”

“I won’t hurt you,” Horatio said, putting his hands on his hips.

Speed smirked as he sat up. “As much as I want you deep inside me,” Speed purred into Horatio’s ear. “There are other ways we can blow our minds.”

Horatio moaned deeply as Speed’s hands dipped into his pants. He sucked gently on the juncture of Speed’s shoulder and neck, leaving a light mark. “Mark me,” Speed whispered, causing Horatio’s already hard member to jump into Speed’s hand and grow harder. “I’m yours – have been since that night.” Horatio growled deep in his throat as he bit down marking Speed as his.

Speed got rid of Horatio’s last piece of clothing. He pulled the redhead down onto him, skin-to-skin, chest-to-chest, and groin-to-groin. The two set a slow sensual rhythm losing themselves into each other, claiming each other’s heart and soul.

~*~

Horatio rolled over to an empty space in the bed, where Speed should have been. His eyes snapped open quickly scanning the darkened room. Speed was dressing nearby, his back to Horatio. “I thought you weren’t going to treat me like a client?”

Speed stiffened, he turned slowly around. “I’m not.”

“Then why sneak out in the middle of the night,” Horatio sat up in the bed motioning towards the door.

“If I stay, I won’t want to leave in the morning,” Speed admitted.

“Why do you keep doing this?” Horatio asked quietly.

Speed slipped on his coat and his back once again towards Horatio. “This can’t work.” He motioned between the two of them. “You’re a cop and I’m a high priced whore.”

“Then quit,” Horatio stood up from the bed, grabbing his pants and slipping them on.

“And what?” Speed demanded eyes flashing. “Be your kept man?”

“No,” Horatio ran his hand through his hair. “There’s got to be something you want to do with your life.”

Speed looked down to the ground, “I’ve got plans. In a year I can retire from this…” He gestured his hands around the hotel room.

“A year isn’t a long time,” Horatio stepped up to Speed.

Speed looked up sharply, “You would wait for me to retire?”

“I would rather take you home, and throw away your little black book.” Horatio smiled at him. “But if I have to, I’ll wait.”

“I can’t ask that of you,” Speed shook his head, stepping away from Horatio.

Horatio grabbed him and pulled him back into his arms. “You told me we were on alternate paths, we are now at a crossroad, but one day the two will merge. When you walked out of that hotel room, you took my heart with you.”

“And when your colleagues find out what I was?” He asked. “When Megan sees us together?”

“I’ll deal with Megan and my colleagues.” Horatio’s hand cupped Speed’s face. “We were meant to be together – even when an alternate path was taken we still found each other. I won’t give you up.”

Speed kissed him passionately. “I have to go, before I chuck everything and become your kept man.” He laughed slightly as he walked towards the front door.

Horatio grabbed his arm, slipping a business card into his hand, “Anything. I mean anything, call me.”

Speed nodded, slipping the card into his pocket. “You weren’t the only one who lost their heart that night.” Speed’s hand stilled on Horatio’s cheek, “I left mine behind.”

Horatio stood in the hallway watching Speed leave his life once again. He took a deep labored breath holding back all the pain and emotion he felt as the elevator doors closed.

PATHS MERGE

~*~

Firm hands roamed down his chest, caressing, touching, pulling a strangled moan from his throat. His head thrashed from side to side as words tumbled out of his mouth incoherent, he wasn’t even sure if he was speaking English. A talented mouth followed the path of those previously talented hands. He moaned deep and guttural as something warm engulfed his hard cock. He arched into the warm touch moaning his name – a loud obnoxious sound broke through his haze of pleasure. Horatio groaned as he glanced over at the phone on the nightstand. He released his aching erection, as he reached for the phone.

“Caine,” He answered in a mildly irritated tone – he was having a pleasant fantasy, a very pleasant fantasy. Three months since he had seen Speed, three long months – he wasn’t sure if he could make it a year. He was seriously tempted to call Judge Stella Withers and ask her about Speed’s retirement fund and how he could contribute.

“Horatio, it’s Frank Tripp.” Frank was always straight to the point. “I have a case and I think you need to be here.”

“Frank,” Horatio looked over at the clock. “It’s three in the morning. Night shift can take care of it.”

“No, Horatio, you need to get down here,” Tripp’s voice was firm, there was no arguing.

“It’s not a member of my team is it?” Horatio sat up in the bed worried that one of his team had gotten injured.

“No, it’s not the team,” A pause from Frank. “It’s about you.”

Horatio sighed, “Where are you?” He wrote down the location on a notebook lying on the nightstand. “I’ll be there in thirty.”

“Make it twenty,” Tripp stated as he hung up the phone.

Horatio groaned as he got out of the bed. He grabbed a quick shower, got dressed and was out of the house in ten minutes. He pulled up to one of Miami’s top nightclubs seven minutes later, a record – he wasn’t going to mention the half a dozen speed laws he had just broken. He saw Tripp standing by the front entrance with an unreadable expression on his face. Horatio eased out of the Hummer and walked up to the detective.

“Tripp,” Horatio cocked his head to the side. “What’s so important you dragged me out of bed at three in the morning?”

“This,” Tripp handed Horatio his own business card.

Horatio looked down at it, “And?”

“That was in the pocket of a high priced hooker that just got the shit beaten out of him in the club’s back room,” Tripp looked at Horatio. “I think you can understand how sensitive this can be.”

Horatio took a deep breath, his hand gripping the card. “Is he okay?”

“He’s on his way to County, he was beaten pretty badly, plus a gunshot wound to the shoulder.” Tripp informed him. “No one saw or heard anything or didn’t want to see or hear anything.”

“Wake my team,” Horatio’s voice was stern. “I want Ryan down at the hospital to process him. I want Eric and Calleigh to process the back room. You and I are going to talk to the patrons of this establishment. I want DNA and fingerprints from every person that was here when it happened.” Horatio looked towards the club, his hand still gripping the business card.

“Horatio,” Tripp stepped in front of him. “If this gets out…”

Horatio looked at Tripp, his blue eyes cold and hard. “Wake my team.”

~*~

Eric and Calleigh walked up to the club with their kits in their hands. They spotted Horatio talking with the club’s manager. Eric yawned, covering his mouth with his hand, Calleigh smiled at him, “late night?”

Eric just snorted, “Let’s just say, I had just gotten to bed an hour before the call came from Tripp. Why are we working this?”

Calleigh shrugged, “Don’t know.”

Horatio walked over to the two, “Calleigh, Eric the scene is in one of the back rooms. The victim was attacked, beaten, and then shot. I sent Ryan over to County to process him when he gets out of surgery.”

“He’s still alive?” Eric asked, a bit shocked.

“Strong will to live,” Calleigh responded impressed.

“Process the room and see if you can figure out what exactly happened. So far no one saw or heard anything.” Horatio’s eyes swept over the room, his hands in his pocket. He held onto the business card with a strong grip, refusing to let go. He couldn’t be at the hospital and at the moment that card was his only link to the man he loved.

“More like they didn’t want to get involved,” Eric followed Horatio’s sweep around the club. “H, this club caters to all types of clientele – do we know why the victim was attacked?”

“We won’t know until we talk to the victim,” Horatio looked away from them. “Something you should know.” He dropped his eyes to the floor to take a deep breath, and then looked back up at them both. “The victim is a high priced escort, and he had my business card in his pocket.”

“Planted?” Eric asked concerned, not sure where Horatio was going with this.

“No, I gave it to him.” Horatio’s mask dropped a look of vulnerability shown through, in a second it was back up and the Lieutenant was back in charge. “His name is Timothy Speedle, we crossed paths a time or two.”

“Should you be working on this case?” Calleigh asked her blue eyes full of questions.

“Doesn’t matter, I’m working it,” Horatio responded back to her. “I want everything double checked, no short cuts. We don’t want to give any type of defense attorney a way out.”

They nodded, “If you don’t mind me asking.” Calleigh paused for a moment, not sure how to state her next question. She just couldn’t fathom Horatio hiring, “How did you meet him?”

“Long story,” Horatio grinned, a far away look in his eyes. “I’ll give a formal statement later, if it becomes necessary.” He paused then looked back at Calleigh, “Remember the guy you asked so insistently about at the banquet?”

Calleigh’s mouth dropped, “HIM? Oh God. He was with…and you…” Her eyes were wide, placing the pieces together.

“Now you know why this has to be treated extremely carefully,” Horatio’s eyes bore into hers.

She nodded as she grabbed a shocked Eric and headed down the hallway. “I don’t know what shocks me more,” Eric commented as they walked. “Judge Withers or Horatio…”

“Or the fact Megan seemed to know him also,” Calleigh pointed out. This was going to have some serious repercussions. She didn’t know all the details but it could explain the tension between Horatio and Megan. Though she didn’t know how Megan fit into the scheme of things.

“Oh, this is going to get dirty,” Eric moaned as they opened the door to the crime scene. “Damn, there’s a lot of blood.”

Calleigh looked around the room. It was one of the club’s private rooms — a room that consisted of a couch, two chairs, and a coffee table in the middle. Rooms where patrons could go for privacy. No one asked what was going on inside the rooms, and as long as no one was injured or caught the owners didn’t care. It was a well-known hidden fact that a patron could score drugs, sex, or any other illegal contraband in those backrooms.

The coffee table had been shattered with blood splatter surrounding the debris. One of the chairs had been turned over, the other slammed into the wall. The couch was in shambles, pillows torn and scattered. There was blood everywhere, on the floor, chairs, couch, and a pool by the far wall. “Let’s get started, this is going to take a while.” Calleigh set her kit down and pulled on a pair of gloves.

~*~

Ryan looked down at the young man in the hospital bed – he looked bad, really bad. His right eye was swollen shut, his jaw bruised, a deep cut along his hairline – Ryan had pulled a small piece of debris out of his hair. The dark hair was matted with blood and sweat as it lay in contrast against the white sheets and pillow. Ryan carefully maneuvered around the ventilator, heart monitor, and IV stands. He was able to get some skin and blood from under the victim’s fingernails. He set the bruised hand back down onto the bed, careful of the IV. Ryan labeled and photographed the samples and set them in his kit. He once again picked up his camera and started taking pictures of the injuries. He lowered his camera, his eyes taking in the scene before him.

“You really put up a fight didn’t you?” He stated as he snapped a few more pictures. His hands were bruised and bloodied, nails broken and jagged. “That will help us in the long run. You must have something to live for, the doctors weren’t sure you would come through the surgery. They lost you once, but you stubbornly hung on.” Ryan looked up when he heard the door open, “Horatio?”

“You almost finished?” He asked, though his eyes never left the man lying quietly in the bed.

“Just finished,” Ryan packed his camera away. “There was some type of debris in his hair. I’ll get it to Trace. Also there were traces of blood and skin under his fingernails, plus blood on his knuckles. He fought back — hard.” Ryan glanced at the victim. “The doctors say if he gets through the next 24 hours he will fully recovery.”

“What about sexual assault?” Horatio looked over at Ryan. Horatio steeled himself for the answer.

“Rape kit was positive for semen. The doctors said there was some bad tearing and bruising.” Ryan turned and picked up his kit, missing Horatio’s pained expression. “They are running his blood now for any traces of STD, drugs or any other type of toxin.”

“Compare the semen with the DNA found under his nails,” Horatio’s hands were on his hips. He was having a hard time controlling his emotions. He just needed Ryan to leave so he could drop his guard. “I want to see that blood work as soon as possible.”

Ryan stepped up to the door and turned back towards Horatio, he could see the tension in Horatio’s shoulders. “It’s the same guy from the banquet. The one you followed out of the hall…” Horatio turned and looked at him. Ryan smiled at him as he opened the door. “Sensitivity surrounding all results and inquiries.”

Horatio turned back to Speed lying in the bed, “God.” He slumped down in the chair next to the bed. His emotions surfacing, he stubbornly stopped the tears from forming. He had to be strong for Speed, and couldn’t break down. Later when he got home he could lose it, but only then. “Speed, you have to pull through this. I can’t…I just can’t.”

Horatio leaned forward gently taking Speed’s hand in his, “We’re going to find out who did this. Then you’re going to retire and I’m never letting you out of my sight.”

“Oh, God!” A voice came from the doorway.

Horatio turned from his chair, “Judge Withers.” He was glad she was here. He could trust her to watch and take care of Speed while he found the bastard that had put him in the hospital.

Stella walked to the opposite side of the bed, tears in her eyes, “Oh Tim.” Her hand soothed back his matted hair. “I refuse to lose you, so you’re just going to have to get better. Besides we have plans to go to Vermont – you were going to teach me to ski. Who am I kidding, we were going to tour the Ben & Jerry’s factory and eat ice cream.” She choked on her words as she sat down in the chair. She took a deep breath then looked up at Horatio. “Horatio, you will find out who did this. Then you will bring him to my courtroom.”

Horatio smiled slightly. “That, I will do.”

“And once he is well, we are going to throw that damn little book away, tell his ‘John’ to take a hike and he is going to retire!” Stella looked back down at Speed. “And you aren’t going to argue with us. You’re going to get well and let Horatio take you away so you can relax and heal.” She looked up at Horatio, her blue eyes full of emotion.

Horatio stood up, laying Speed’s hand gently back onto the bed. “I promise you,” He looked directly at Stella, a look of determination on his face. “He won’t be going back, not if I have anything to say about it.” His hand softly caressed Speed’s face. “And I think you have an excellent idea. A vacation is just what he needs, and it’s been years since I’ve taken time off.”

“You love him,” Stella stated, watching Horatio’s closely. She had seen his look of pain and love when he had watched Speed leave the room. She then watched him leave, moments later. Speed never told her what happened that night, but he had seemed content, yet sad, the next day.

“From the moment I met him,” Horatio leaned over the bed kissing Speed on the forehead. “I have to get back to the lab. Keep me posted?”

“I will,” Stella nodded her head. Horatio took one last look and headed out the door. Stella ran her hand back through his hair. “He loves you, and I know you love him. He’s a good match for you. Keeps you grounded, gives you boundaries. And you’re good for him. Make him live life and be happy.”

Stella settled into her chair, she wasn’t going to leave his side. Tim had always been special to her; he helped her heal from her husband’s death. She kept a hold of his hand talking softly pleading with him to wake up and show her those dark brown eyes. He had a lot to live for — A future with a certain redhead.

~*~

“What do we have so far?” Horatio asked his team when he walked into the evidence room. Seeing Speed had helped him get his emotions under control. Knowing Stella was there to watch over him let him focus all of his attention on the case.

“The semen matches the DNA found under the victim’s nails and the blood on his knuckles,” Ryan answered. He handed Horatio a folder with a small smile, “The victim’s blood work up.”

“Thanks,” Horatio nodded in appreciation. He held the file in his hand waiting for later to look through it, “Anything else?”

“Still working up what happened in the room,” Calleigh informed him. “We don’t know yet how many people were in the room. I dusted the door and came up with at least a dozen or more prints. They are running through AFIS now.”

“The debris Ryan pulled from the victim’s hair, matches the wood grain and consistency of the coffee table.” Eric explained. “We found traces of blood that matches the victim on one of the legs from the coffee table.”

“We know the victim was an escort,” Horatio looked at the group smiling inwardly at Eric’s blush. “Ryan, the two of us will go through his home, see if we can figure out a client list. He probably knew his assailant. Which means…?”

“Possible beef with a client,” Calleigh nodded in understanding. “This could get tricky…I mean we know, well…” She blushed a bit. “We know he has clients in law enforcement.”

Horatio smiled at her, “That’s why this is going to stay quiet until we figure out what happened.”

They all nodded, “How is he?” Eric asked. He was impressed that the victim not only fought back against his assailant but also was still holding on.

“If he makes it through today, he’ll be good.” Horatio informed them, “Ryan pack your gear, I want to get out there as soon as possible.” Horatio left the room and headed towards his office.

“This is going to sound really weird,” Eric looked at the other two. “But do you feel as if – I don’t know…Like Timothy Speedle is more than…”

“Like we’ve known him, but don’t.” Calleigh finished for him.

“Yeah,” Eric nodded. “It’s almost as if we or he had turned left instead of right…”

“He would be here and not there?” Ryan concluded.

~*~

Horatio looked around the penthouse, his eyes seeing Speed in all aspects. It was soft, comfortable, and full of personality with little touches that made it a home. The kitchen was large and fully stocked with every imaginable appliance, gadget, and cooking utensil. The living room was equipped with the latest technology, plasma TV on the wall, and a state of the art sound system. Ryan looked thoroughly impressed at the set up. He glanced through the titles on the unit. He smirked at Horatio, “I don’t think he brings his clients here.”

“Why do you say that?” Horatio called from the kitchen eyeing the fancy pots and pans.

“If you were a high priced escort would Dumbo be in your DVD player? Especially if you were entertaining a client?” Ryan held up a DVD case of Disney’s Dumbo.

“Probably not,” Horatio smiled. “I agree though, this is where he goes to get away.” Horatio left the kitchen and proceeded up the stairs.

The penthouse had two levels. The bottom level consisted of the kitchen, living room, and an office. The top level was the bathroom and bedroom.

Horatio entered the bedroom. It was simple, warm – Speed. The king size bed had an iron cast frame, images of Speed and handcuffs slipped into his conscious thought, he shook his head and focused on the job. The dresser was oak, a matching standing dresser stood on the opposite wall. An overstuffed chair that had seen much use sat in the corner surrounded by windows. A stack of books was at its side and along the base of the lamp. A movement caught his eye. He turned back to the chair the quilt had moved – a small head popped up from underneath it. Horatio watched as a large black cat got up, stretched, arched, yawned, eyed Horatio, then curled back up and went to sleep. Horatio smiled, he would make sure there was some food and water for the cat before he left.

“Horatio,” Ryan called up from the bottom level. “I found his computer.”

Horatio stepped into the office cluttered with books, papers, and journals. An old oak desk sat in front of the window, with an elaborate computer sitting on top of it. A recliner was in the corner next to a small table and lamp, surrounded by books. An architectural map was up on the wall, rolled plans on the side table. Business plans and proposals lined the desk.

Horatio looked through the business plans, loan documents, and rental agreements. He then looked up at the plans on the wall, it was a restaurant – it was Speed’s retirement plan.

“He’s got a degree in microbiology with honors from Columbia,” Ryan stared at the wall, his voice showing his shock. “He’s also has a degree in Business from Miami University and one for cooking.”

“He loved to learn new things. The degree in business and cooking was his retirement plan.” A new voice entered from the office door.

Horatio turned and looked at the intruder, “Who are you?”

“Robert,” He smiled, “A friend of Speeds.” He looked directly at Horatio.

Horatio understood the meaning of the use of the nickname, “What are you doing here?”

“Look, let’s just be frank, shall we.” Robert leaned against the wall. “Speed works for me. I’m here to protect my clients.”

“Even if one of them put him in the hospital?” Ryan asked as he leaned against the desk.

“You of all people should know the consequence if various names got out,” Robert looked over at Horatio. “I’m willing to help in all aspects. Except give up my client list.”

“Who would want to hurt Speed?” Horatio asked, hands on his hips.

“I know you can at least think of one person who hates him,” Robert smirked at Horatio’s frown. “As for this incident – there is one client that had gotten rough with him in the past.”

“Same one that tore him up last time?” Horatio demanded. The image of the bruised hips and backs had angered him. The fact that Speed wouldn’t name the client had frustrated him.

“I informed the client that I didn’t appreciate my people getting hurt and that he was not welcome anymore.” Robert informed them, “Of course he didn’t take that very well. He had really taken a liking to Speed.”

“Name?” Horatio demanded a slight growl in his tone.

“One question,” Robert straightened away from the wall. “Will Speed be charged with anything?”

“He’s the victim,” Ryan commented from the sideline, more intent in watching the two men fight over Speedle.

“He’s also a paid escort,” Robert glanced over at him. “Courts love to make an example.”

“Was he working last night?” Horatio asked not sure if he wanted to know the answer.

“No,” Robert smiled at Horatio’s tight tone. “He was out with some friends. I meant what I said, he was very close to retiring. He would have been out of this business, years ago, but medical bills are expensive.”

“Medical bills?” Ryan glanced over at Horatio. “Is he sick?”

“No,” Robert shook his head. “I discovered him about eight years ago. His uncle had just been diagnosed with colon cancer, and was on the verge of losing everything. I set him up – gave him an advance to pay the mortgage. Unfortunately cancer is a hell of disease, and it took three years for his uncle to die from complications of colon cancer. Speed paid all the medical bills, paid off the mortgage for his aunt, and finally the funeral expenses. Once he made sure his aunt was secure, he began working on his own plans. Lately though,” He looked at Horatio, “He had gotten a push to retire even sooner. Told me he had gotten a glance of what his life could be.”

“These friends?” Ryan asked to ease the tension in the room.

“Sorry,” Robert smiled at him. “As much as they want to help, they won’t come forward.”

“They work for you?” Horatio looked over at the plans on the wall. He swore to himself that he would see Speed get this. He wanted to see Speed’s brown eyes light with joy and happiness – he wanted to see them filled with contentment. He wanted Speed to be happy and most of all he wanted to be there with him and for him, every step of the way.

“Yes,” Robert watched Horatio study the drawings. “The client’s name is Paul Townsend.”

“The banker?” Ryan asked, a bit shocked.

“How much of your organization does he know?” Horatio turned and looked at Robert.

“He’s only seen Speed,” Robert informed them. “All arrangements are made over the phone. They give us a name or description of what they want – then my person is called with a name, place, and time.”

“So he can’t hurt your organization,” Ryan grinned. “Good set up, but he can expose Speedle.”

“No,” Robert smirked at Horatio.

“Nothing is exchanged on site, no deal is made and no money is exchanged so there is no crime.” Horatio finished for Robert. “A really good set up.”

“So if there is no actual proof Paul ever paid Speedle,” Ryan spoke out loud. “So he couldn’t say that the altercation was a sex thing gone wrong.”

“As far as I’m concerned, Speed no longer works for me.” Robert locked eyes with Horatio. “I don’t know who Paul Townsend is, except what I read in the business section of the paper.” Horatio nodded understanding the statement. They couldn’t use his statement to get a warrant for Townsend’s DNA, but they could find out if he was at the club. If he was at the club, they could get a warrant for his DNA.

~*~

Horatio walked into his office and he wanted to call the hospital and check on Speed’s condition. He looked up and stopped short. Megan was sitting behind his desk looking through Speed’s case file. “What the hell are you doing?” His tone was cold and deadly. She should be wise, take the hint and leave him alone – now was not a good time.

Megan looked up at him, “Timothy Speedle?” She held up the case. “You know rumors are going around that your business card was found in his pocket.”

“And, that is supposed to concern the case how?” Horatio demanded a growl in his throat. He had worked hard these past months not to accuse, demand or out right attack her or her husband. His emotions were barely under the surface. If Megan opened the door he would walk right through it and damn the consequences.

“Horatio,” She walked around his desk, eyes flashing. “This looks bad on you and this department.” She couldn’t believe that Horatio would stoop as low as doing a whore. Let alone this particular one.

“Megan, you don’t want to get into this argument with me.” Horatio warned her. One move and what was left of their relationship would be over.

“Horatio,” She got up in his face not heeding to his warning tone or body language. “How does it look that you’re fucking a whore?”

Horatio snapped, his eyes flashed with anger. He stepped up to her letting his height dominate. “How does it look that you turned down his application because your husband was fucking him?” Horatio smirked at her wide eyes and shocked gasp. “Oh, don’t look shocked. I checked out his application. His credentials were beyond expectations. He had three recommendations – letters from professors and CSI professionals in New York. He had no criminal record, and his drug tests were clean, not even caffeine was present. Yet, you turned him down, why? Because Shawn, we know it wasn’t Tim, either confessed, or you found out he was fucking a whore, so he named Tim. So you decided to not only deny his application for no reason, but also blacklist him with every lab in the city. What were you hoping for, him to leave Miami? Well you didn’t do your research. He had family here.”

“I did the right thing, he was a junkie,” Megan spat back at him, refusing to have her professional reputation called into question over some whore that Horatio was screwing.

“He’s been clean for over ten years, besides his drug test was negative. You had no proof Megan, no evidence of any drug habit.” Horatio growled at her, anger surfacing. “It wasn’t enough to lead him along, and then deny him the job, but to blacklist him.”

“You wouldn’t understand,” Megan stepped back a scowl on her face.

“You’re right I wouldn’t, and I don’t understand,” Horatio stepped around her. “You destroyed a man’s life because your husband was an ass. The idea of a whore – is that they get paid. Which means, Megan, Shawn went out, looked, asked, opened his wallet and handed Tim the money. This wasn’t about Tim’s past – this was about the fact you couldn’t stand the reminder that Shawn looked for paid whores to satisfy him. What pissed you off more, that he stepped out? Or that it was with a man?”

Megan eyes flashed, “You should be careful when fucking whores Horatio – you don’t know what they may have.”

Horatio smirked as he threw the medical file across his desk. “The final piece to the puzzle, Shawn brought something home. Let me guess he said it came from the one whore he slept with, Tim? I guess he lied.”

Megan grabbed the file quickly scanning it. All tests for STD came back negative. No drugs in the system, not even a drop of alcohol or caffeine. She sat down in one of the chairs in front of Horatio’s desk. “But?”

“You ruined a man’s life over a lie your husband told you,” Horatio’s voice held no sympathy. “If you excuse me I have a case to work.” Horatio stormed out of his office, fuming, slamming the door so hard that frames fell off the wall crashing to the floor. He had to calm down before he hit someone, preferably Shawn Donner.

~*~

Horatio stopped in the middle of the hallway hands on his hips. He looked at a grinning practically bouncing Calleigh. “You’ve got that smile on your face,” Horatio cocked his head towards her.

“What smile?” She smirked at him bouncing on the balls of her feet.

“The one that says, ‘I’ve got something that could break this case wide open’.” Horatio couldn’t help but be caught up in her eagerness.

“Ballistics came back,” She practically bounced. “The weapon used was a Glock 9mm. I pulled registrations for that type of weapon, and one name came up…”

“Paul Townsend?” Horatio asked with a true smile forming on his face.

“Yep,” She handed him the report. “Also Taylor was going through the surveillance tapes from the club and guess who he saw in the hallway leading to the back rooms?”

“Paul Townsend?” Horatio looked up from the report.

“Yep,” She smirked again. “And guess who’s already in the interrogation room.”

“Paul Townsend,” Horatio smiled at her, “DNA?” Horatio asked as they headed towards the interrogation rooms, eager to confront the suspect.

“Ryan is tormenting Valera now,” Calleigh informed him. “Eric already printed him, and is comparing them to the ones we found on the door, and the leg from the coffee table.”

Horatio grinned at her as he walked into the interrogation room. He was finally getting a good look at the suspect. Townsend was a large man, taller than Eric by at least a few inches, possibly six foot and five inches and of a large build. He could easily rough up someone Speed’s size.

“What is my client charged with?” The high priced lawyer asked, he was sitting next to Townsend.

“That depends,” Horatio informed them. “Were you at Club Chase, two nights ago Mr. Townsend?”

“No,” Townsend answered with a shrug like he had no care in the world. “It’s not my style.”

“That’s funny,” Horatio cocked his head with a confused look on his face. “The surveillance cameras say something else entirely.” He threw down photos of Townsend entering the club, at the bar, and in the hallway.

“Okay, so I was there,” Townsend looked back up at Horatio. “It’s not a crime.”

“No, but assaulting someone is,” Horatio tossed down the photos Ryan had taken of Speed. “He’s alive, critical but expected to recover. You own a gun Mr. Townsend?”

“Yes,” Townsend didn’t look down at the photos. “It was stolen a few months ago.”

“Of course it was,” Horatio placed his hands on his hips. “So did you see him at the club with some friends? Upset that he refused to see you any more. Decided to teach him a lesson, beat him up and get your rocks off at the same time by raping him.”

“I don’t know who he is,” Townsend looked straight at Horatio.

“Do you know anything about DNA?” Horatio asked him as he leaned over the table. “We’re comparing your DNA to the DNA found under his nails and with the semen you left behind, should have used a condom.”

“Unless you have something, this interview is over.” The lawyer stood up pulling Townsend up. Ryan walked into the room handing Horatio a piece of paper.

“I don’t think so,” Horatio looked over at Townsend. “We have a match.” He motioned for Frank, “Arrest him for assault, attempted murder, and rape.”

“He’s a whore,” Townsend spat. “I paid for him to spread them.”

“Get him out of here,” Horatio watched as they escorted him out.

“He’s a high priced whore,” the lawyer stated to Horatio. “We’ll tear him to shreds on the stand.”

“He doesn’t need to take the stand,” Horatio informed him. “We have more than enough evidence to convict Mr. Townsend.” Horatio walked out of the interrogation room with a smile on his face. He would enjoy seeing the lawyer go up against Judge Withers – he didn’t stand a chance.

~*~

“I can walk you know,” Speed informed him as Horatio helped him lean against the wall.

“Humor me,” Horatio grinned at him as he opened the door to Speed’s penthouse. He helped Speed into the living room, sitting him down on the couch. “Do you need anything?”

“No, I’m fine.” Speed leaned his head against the back of the couch.

“You sure?” Horatio looked down at him, his hand caressing Speed’s still bruised cheek.

“I’m sure,” Speed smiled at him. “Just sit with me.”

“That I can do,” Horatio slid next to him pulling Tim into his arms. Speed leaned back, relaxing against Horatio’s chest. “How’s the pain?”

“Tolerable,” Speed muttered sleepily. “What happens now?”

“Townsend goes to trial then jail,” Horatio kissed the top of Speed’s head.

“Do I have to testify?” He took comfort in Horatio’s arms. When he had woken up Stella was by his side. She had told him Horatio was out hunting the man who had done this to him. He told her it was Paul, but he didn’t want to testify. If they asked him on the stand what he did, he couldn’t lie, but he wouldn’t expose Robert or his clients. He later found out Horatio had followed a trail of evidence to Paul, and if he was lucky he wouldn’t have to testify.

“The evidence speaks for you,” Horatio shifted a bit, letting Speed settle into him.

“When he attacked me, I just knew to collect as much evidence as I could,” Speed sat up wincing slightly at the pain in his shoulder, and looked at Horatio. “I made sure to dig into his skin, get some shots in myself, and just get through it alive. When he shot me, I focused on surviving, so we could be together.”

Horatio leaned forward kissing him softly, “I’m glad you did. I don’t know what I would have done if I had gotten there and you were laid out on the floor dead, a gunshot wound to the chest.”

Speed smiled softly at him, “Take me to bed.”

Horatio stood up and held his hand out, “for sleep only.”

“One of these days I’m going to blow your mind,” Speed whispered into Horatio’s ear.

Horatio gulped at Speed’s sly smirk. He then took matters into his own hands and kissed him passionately. He smiled at Speed’s dazed expression, followed closely by a yawn, “Okay, bed with you.” Horatio led him up to the bedroom. “By the way, what’s the cat’s name?”

Speed laughed slightly, “You’ll find it humorous.”

Horatio helped Speed into the bed, careful of the bandaged ribs, “really?” Horatio asked as he stripped off his own shirt and slipped off his shoes, crawling into the bed next to Speed, wrapping his arms around him.

“Destiny,” Speed curled into Horatio, he was finally home.

Horatio kissed Speed’s temple “it fits.”

“I love you,” Speed whispered, his eyes drooping.

“And I you,” Horatio pulled him closer. “Sleep, we’ve got time.”

Speed closed his eyes feeling for the first time in a long time safe and secure. Tomorrow he would wake up with Horatio next to him. He would wake up every morning with Horatio beside him, and that thought alone put a smile on his face as he fell asleep. It was destiny that led them down their alternate paths to each other. Paths that were always meant to cross and intersect – paths that were now merged into one. Though he had to wonder who hired him for Horatio in the first place.

ONE WAY STREET

~*~

Horatio sat back into the booth exhausted but content. The grand opening of the restaurant had gone smoothly, with the exception of the small fire in the kitchen. He looked around the restaurant, friends and family were scattered around congratulating Speed on his success. Speed sat at the bar, relaxed. Horatio grinned, Speed had some soot on his cheek, and every time he wiped at it more just accumulated. He looked exhausted, but content. His eyes shined with happiness. Speed turned and searched Horatio out, giving him a bright smile. Horatio couldn’t help but smile back. He sipped his drink and thought about the last nine months. It had been fast paced, but worth every frustrating minute.

Shortly after Speed had gotten home from the hospital Horatio moved in with him in the penthouse. They were renting out his condo at the moment, but were thinking of selling both places and buying a house. It wasn’t easy in the beginning, between the snide remarks behind their backs, clients constantly popping up, and the trial – they had some rough moments. In the end they fought through each one, and ended up here tonight, at the grand opening of “Speed’s Place”.

It had a feel of an old style family restaurant with a mixture of modern and classic. The restaurant had two distinct sections. A patron entered through the front door to the waiting hostess. To their right was a door that led to an old style English bar with a spacious lounge. Speed had already booked prospective new bands to play on Friday and Saturday nights. To the left was an open loft style seating area for eating. In the light of day it was a great place for families, work lunches – casual and comfortable. At night the light off the harbor gave it a more romantic feel. Speed had found a perfect location, and with the guests’ reactions tonight he was out to a good start.

Horatio leaned farther back lost in the memories over the past nine months. He had come close, too close, to losing Speed, the very thought still sent shivers down his spine. The defense attorney had gotten the trial moved in front of a judge that was more lenient on assault charges, Horatio had lost stronger cases in front of Judge Matthews. Speed had panicked when the district attorney had called him and told him he would have to testify. Horatio had been lucky that afternoon. If he hadn’t run into DA Williams at the office he would have come home to an empty house.

~Flashback~

Horatio slammed the Hummer into his parking spot. He sighed in relief when he saw Speed’s Audi sitting in its usual spot. He had been trying to reach Speed for the past hour, panic and fear had been settling in each minute that had gone by. Williams had just informed him that Speed would be required to testify. He was worried that Townsend’s attorney would rip Speed to shreds, and try to take Horatio down while he was at it.

Horatio slammed his phone shut and dropped it into his suit pocket when he didn’t get an answer. He glared at the elevator, willing it to go faster, watching the numbers slowly countdown. With a ding the doors opened to reveal Speed standing inside the car with a suitcase in his hands. Horatio froze and stared at him – one minute, just one – and Speed would have been gone.

Horatio responded first. He pushed Speed back into the back of the elevator and hit the button for the penthouse. Speed had refused to look at him, his eyes cast down to the elevator floor. He hadn’t even looked up when the doors re-opened. Horatio pulled him out of the elevator, down the hall, and into the penthouse. He forced Speed to sit down on the couch, and then took the suitcase upstairs to their bedroom. The room was in shatters, clothes scattered – showing how much of a panic Speed was in. He came back down stairs and sat down on the coffee table facing a slumped Speed.

“Running doesn’t help,” Horatio forced Speed to look at him. His voice was calm considering he was shaking with fear on the inside.

“I won’t be Townsend’s vehicle to ruin your career.” Speed tried to look away but Horatio held his jaw firm.

“I’m not letting you go,” Horatio’s voice dropped into a predatorily growl. “Townsend can go to hell. We will talk to DA Williams tomorrow, find out our best course of action and deal with this head on.”

Speed wiped the tears from his face, “And what about you? It’s bad enough you get snide remarks at work, but to face a judge and jury. They could ruin your reputation, which could hurt other cases.”

“You’re the victim here, Speed.” Horatio slipped beside him on the couch. “Don’t let him do this.”

“I’m scared,” Speed leaned into his arms. “I’m scared you’re going to see what I was and realize I’m not worth it.”

Horatio closed his eyes, taking calming breaths to control his emotions. “I’m not leaving. I know what you were, hell you showed up at my hotel room in leather pants and a wicked smile.”

Speed chuckled softly, “still got those pants.”

“Really,” Horatio kissed his temple, pulling Speed closer.

“I’m sorry,” Speed muttered quietly.

“It’s okay, just don’t scare me like that again. I’m not going to tell you how many traffic laws I just broke.” Speed snuggled farther into Horatio’s side. Horatio didn’t want to think about that one minute.

~Present~

Horatio smiled as Alexx took a wet rag and cleaned off the soot off Speed’s cheek. Eric laughed as Speed tried to pull away, while Alexx cleaned him up. Ryan was still snitching on some of the leftover food smiling. Calleigh was fussing over Speed as much as Alexx. She just couldn’t get over the fact a Yankee made better gumbo than her Southern grandmother. He was very proud of his team, he knew there was a reason he picked them. They had easily accepted Speed into their midst.

Eric had fallen into an easy banter with him, taking to him like a brother. The two often had gone out clubbing, Speed helping him pick up girls. Showing him which ones were working and which were just there having a good time. Horatio was never surprised to see Eric at the penthouse watching the game or playing video games. Eric had invited the whole team over to his parents place for a large family barbeque and picnic. Speed’s look when he was introduced to Eric’s family was priceless. Eric’s mom latched on him instantaneously, stating that Speed was too thin, and needed some good quality food. Eric had laughed and told her Speed was a chef, and matter-of-fact brought the potato salad she had been cooing over for the past hour. The two started swapping recipes. A few of them ended up on the menu of the new restaurant. The whole Delko family was in attendance, smiling with pride over their boy’s accomplishments.

Ryan had been curious about the biology degree, and was upset to find out that Speed had been denied access to any lab within Miami. It had been common practice now to see Ryan discussing new forensic ideas or tools with Speed. He even dragged the poor guy into the lab to help with an experiment. Once Ryan had found out about Speed’s fascination with forensics he repeatedly hounded the guy to re-apply. Even with the opening of the restaurant he was still hounding. Horatio actually wondered if Speed would give up just to shut Ryan up, if there was one thing about Ryan, it was that he was persistent.

Calleigh had found a new friend in Speed, one that understood her dark history. She found someone who would listen and not judge, someone that would help her with her father, and someone who could make her laugh at the worst possible moments. He had heard the story through the grapevine. Calleigh had gone to pick up her father at one of the local bars he frequently drowned his sorrows. As she tried to get him to leave he was going on about how pretty she was, and should find a nice man and settle down. The men at the bar began making propositions – she was almost in tears from frustration.

Just as she was prepared to pull her gun and tell them to back off, Speed had walked into the bar. She had called him earlier to see if he could help, he had told her he would be there as soon as he could. He had walked in time to hear them take their propositions up a notch, so with his best sexy and husky voice he told the men that if they were looking for a good time, he took Visa. All of their mouths dropped, they quickly shut them and scattered. Calleigh had laughed so hard it had taken them another twenty minutes to get out of the bar. Later she had asked if it was true, if Speed had actually taken visa. He looked at her and deadpanned, no – only American Express.

Now Alexx was another story, the moment she laid eyes on Speed she had claimed him. Judge Withers had competition on the mothering hen front. He would always be forever grateful to Alexx and her compassionate nature. It was another one of those moments Horatio had come too close to losing him. Horatio had been working late for a few days working on a missing child case. Between the shooting at the jewelry store and dragging up the remains of the kidnapper from the shark and alligator infested waters, there had been a lot of paperwork, and Horatio had been working late.

Speed had stopped by the lab with some homemade lasagna for Horatio. When he had asked the front receptionist if Horatio was in, she had told him he was out. She then proceeded to tell him that his kind wasn’t welcome at the lab, and he should stay away from an honorable man as Lieutenant Caine. Speed had bit his bottom lip to keep from responding to her verbal attack, but Alexx showed no restraint.

She had been walking up to get her messages when she heard the vicious attack. She hadn’t met Speed yet, but was eager to meet the man who had won over Horatio Caine. Alexx had turned on the receptionist, telling her to get her head out of her ass. That she should be lucky Lieutenant Caine had not heard her or she would’ve been out of a job. She then grabbed a shell shocked Speed and headed for the break room. She sat him down, and fixed them some tea. Speed had just stared at her the whole time in utter amazement. She had told him not to listen to idiots like the receptionist, and that he was good for Horatio. Though once she had taken a bite of his lasagna she had later told Horatio he better watch it or she would steal Speed from him.

When the trial began the whole team rallied around Horatio and Speed. Speed had given them each a small smile of appreciation as he proceeded into the courtroom. Since they all had to testify as expert witnesses they couldn’t be in the courtroom during his testimony. Alexx was the only one allowed in the courtroom, along with Judge Withers, who had decided to sit through this particular case. She had been pissed when the trial had been placed in a separate court, specifically Matthews’s court – she hated the man.

~Flashback~

Speed sat on the witness stand calm and collected. He kept his shoulders back and head held high, his posture indicated he wasn’t going to be intimidated. He glanced quickly around the room, his eyes resting on various parts of the courtroom for short periods of time. He knew what was coming; they had gone over what DA Williams was going to ask. He was prepared, scared out of his mind, but prepared.

“Mr. Speedle,” Williams stood up and walked over to the witness stand. “Can you give the court your full name?”

“Timothy James Speedle,” He answered, trying to hide the nervousness in his voice.

“Timothy,” Williams looked back at the defense, turned towards the jury, and then back to Speed. “There has been a lot of talk going on about your occupation. The defense has called into question the horrendous crimes that have been committed against you by dragging you through the mud…”

“Objection!” The defense attorney glared at Williams.

“Sustained. Mr. Williams,” Judge Matthews gave the DA a warning.

“Sorry judge,” Williams smiled at him. Speed tried not to laugh. “Let’s just clear everything up shall we, Timothy. How do you know the defendant?”

“He was a client of mine,” Speed answered, not looking over at Townsend he focused instead on Williams.

“Client?” Williams asked to clarify.

“Yes, client,” Speed answered back. “I was paid to meet Townsend at various locations.”

“Paid to do what?” Williams gave him a reassuring smile.

“For sex,” Speed glanced over at the jury. “I would show up and do whatever he wanted.”

“You said he was a client, past tense?” Williams walked back to his table.

“Each encounter he had gotten rougher, to the point of brutality.” Speed swallowed. He glanced between the jury and Williams. “The last time I was torn up bad, and the person I worked for revoked privileges from Townsend.”

“Revoked privileges?” Williams looked over at Townsend.

“They no longer accepted Townsend’s business,” Speed clarified.

“What happened at the club?” Williams walked in front of the table leaning against it, “In your own descriptions.”

“I was at Club Chase with some friends. I first saw Townsend while I was at the bar, he propositioned me, I told him no. He got upset and pushed me into the bar, I pushed back.” Speed paused, taking a deep breath. “I walked away and headed back to my friends. Later we took residence in one of the back rooms – it’s quieter back there. There was a loud crash. I went to the door to investigate when the door was pushed open and I was thrown against the coffee table. I was dazed, not sure what was going on, until I felt a kick to my ribs. I groaned and rolled away. I felt a strong arm grab my arm and pull me up. I came face to face with Townsend.”

“Did he say anything?” Williams questioned looking over at the jury watching their reactions.

“Told me I was nothing but a high priced whore,” Speed paused looking down. “I kneed him, and when he let me go I stumbled back. I got a few hits in, but in reality, I really didn’t stand a chance. He hit me with something – with what I’m not sure. I was on the floor dazed, not sure what was going on, until I felt him pulling at my pants.”

“Did you fight back at that time?” Williams stepped towards the witness stand. “It’s okay, take your time.”

Speed gave him a sad smile; “I struck out a few times – clawing his face at one point. I just couldn’t focus on what was going on, he used his body to pin me to the ground. I had a hard time breathing…” Speed closed his eyes as flashes of memory. “He took what he wanted. I never saw the gun. I just heard a loud noise and then there was an extreme pain in my shoulder. The next thing I knew I woke up in the ICU.”

Williams nodded then turned back towards his table; “Timothy there has been speculation and accusations about the inappropriate nature of your relationship with one of the CSI’s on the case.”

“Look,” Speed sighed, shaking his head. “I was unconscious through most of the investigation. I never mentioned Townsend to anyone. It was Lieutenant Caine that informed me they had arrested him for the attack.”

“Thank you,” Williams sat down, dreading his next words, “Your witness.”

Speed took a deep breath preparing for the attack. “Mr. Speedle,” Townsend’s lawyer, Jonas, stepped out from behind his table. “You admit that you’re a high priced hooker.”

Speed grinned slightly, “I prefer escort.”

Jonas gave him a bright smile. “Fine escort, but you admitted on the stand that you were paid to have sex with Townsend.”

“I was paid to show up at a hotel room and do whatever he wanted.” Speed responded back.

“So if he wanted dinner and coffee you would have done that?” Jonas asked with humor in his voice.

“Yes, wouldn’t have been the first time.” Speed grinned at him. “Not everyone who calls for an escort wants sex.”

“How many do?” Jonas asked, hands gesturing in the air.

“Objection!” Williams stood up. “Relevance?”

“Your honor Mr. Speedle’s job is in question here. I need to know the basics.” Jonas looked over at the judge.

“I’ll allow it for now,” Judge Matthews looked over at Speed. “Answer the question.”

“How many want sex? Sixty percent give or take.” Speed shrugged, he had never really thought about it.

“And the other forty?” Jonas stepped towards the witness box.

“Dinner, a movie, an ear to listen…” Speed looked over at the jury, “Just some companionship.”

“But Mr. Townsend?” Jonas looked over at his client.

“He wanted what he couldn’t get at home,” Speed explained.

“He liked it rough,” Jonas pushed.

“Yes,” Speed nodded, eyes narrowing wondering where he was going with this.

“So, he paid you to be a willing victim.” Jonas looked at the jury.

Speed cocked his head to the side, “He paid me for sex, and like a good little whore I did what he wanted. But once he bruised the merchandise his privileges were revoked. Not good for business if I can’t do my job.” Speed smirked at Jonas’s shocked expression. He remembered a bit from his studies – if you can make the balance shift in your favor, your set.

Jonas quickly recouped, “You stated that you were there with friends? What type of friends?”

“Friends,” Speed answered.

“Yet, they never came forward.” Jonas pointed out to the jury.

“I knew they wouldn’t,” Speed stated.

“Why not?” Jonas asked. “You’re their friend. Why not help put away the man that hurt you?”

“Because, it’s best to stay anonymous in this field,” Speed informed him.

“Though in reality,” Jonas walked towards him. Speed braced himself for the impact. “This is all just a sham to cover up that your new boyfriend found out you were taking tricks on the side.”

Speed’s eyebrow rose, a look of confusion on his face, “I’m not following.”

“Your relationship with Lieutenant Caine,” Jonas stated clarifying.

“My relationship with Lieutenant Caine is not an issue here,” Speed’s voice dropped slightly.

“But it is, he was the main investigator on the case.” Jonas looked over at him. “You gave him this tale about attack and rape – and he railroaded Townsend.”

“Ah, no. I didn’t wake up till after Townsend had been arrested,” Speed pointed out trying hard not to smirk. “As far as I know they followed the evidence that was left behind. Besides, there are two very large holes in your theory. First off, if this was a paid sex situation gone bad – I would have demanded he use a condom like all my clients. Second off, I seriously don’t get off being shot.”

Williams was seriously considering convincing Speedle to go to law school. That was a serious counter attack that would go down in the Miami courts books – a witness outwitting a defense attorney. “Your Honor, where is he going with this?”

“Wrap it up, councillor,” Judge Matthews tried not to roll his eyes.

“No further questions,” Jonas sat down at the table.

“You’re dismissed,” Judge Matthews told Speed.

Speed nodded and left the courtroom. He proceeded directly to the men’s bathroom and threw up. Horatio knelt down next to him rubbing smoothing circles along his back. A few minutes later Williams walked into the bathroom with a smile on his face.

“Seems like Townsend wants to talk, I guess they didn’t like the jury’s reaction to Timothy,” Williams smirked. “Speedle, if you want a career in law come see me.”

“Not likely,” Speed sat with his back against the wall.

“You okay?” Horatio asked with a small smile on his face.

“I will be,” Speed smiled back. “Take me home.”

“Let’s go,” Horatio held out his hand pulling the man up from the floor.

~Present~

Williams had refused the plea bargain, and proceeded with the trial. After Jonas’ dismal performance to get Speed to break on the stand, he barely questioned the remaining CSI’s. He took a quick pot shot at Horatio, but since he never handled the evidence he couldn’t be accused of tampering. It took the jury four hours to come back with a guilty verdict on all accounts. Townsend was going away for a long time.

Horatio looked out the window, his thoughts turned towards Megan and the consequences of their blow out. She had transferred to the night shift soon after the confrontation. A few months later he found out she had resigned. He called her, to apologize. He didn’t want to push her out of a career she loved – he had no right. They had met for lunch to talk about what happened. She informed him that the resignation was a long time coming. Her marriage with Shawn had been failing, itt never really healed after she had found out about his indiscretions. She had thought a child would bring them together, but in the end it still fell apart. She was divorcing Shawn and moving back to Chicago to be with her sister.

~Flashback~

“Could you give this letter to Timothy?” She handed Horatio a letter. “It’s up to you, if you want to or not.”

“Depends,” Horatio looked at the letter then back to her. “What’s in it?”

“My inadequate apologies,” She gave him a sad smile. “I trusted the wrong man.”

“You loved your husband,” Horatio leaned back into his chair, his heart going out to a once dear friend.

“I always told you to follow the evidence, and I didn’t. I let my emotions blind me to a point where I destroyed another man in vindictiveness. For what, my husband’s infidelity?” Megan took a sip of her ice tea.

Horatio studied her then gave her a smile, “Good luck, Megan. I hope life treats you well.”

She gave him a true smile, “Take care of him, and take care of yourself.”

She walked out of the restaurant and out of their lives. When he handed the letter to Speed, he had set it aside. He explained that he would read it when the time was right. Horatio has no clue if he ever read the letter.

~Present~

Judge Withers was sitting at the bar talking to an older gentleman. Horatio didn’t recognize the man, only knew that he was a friend of Speeds. Horatio suspected another one of Speed’s clients that had become a close friend over time. It seemed Speed was matchmaking, Horatio grinned at Speed’s glances towards the couple.

Speed’s Aunt Pam was talking with Eric’s mom, Lena and the two had met by accident. Pam had stopped by, at the time an empty building, as Speed was working on the kitchen design. She had brought sandwiches and drinks for him, since everyone knew that once Speed got occupied with something he forgot basic needs — like eating and sleeping. Lena arrived ten minutes later with some tamales, Speed rolled his eyes at the two women. The humorous part was that Alexx showed up not much later with Chinese. Speed couldn’t help but laugh, he told them next time to correspond with each other.

Speed never talked about his family. When Horatio had asked he had shrugged and stated that as far as he was concerned this was his family. Horatio glanced around the room again, it was a large diverse family. He had a feeling that for the first time since Billy’s death Speed was happy and content. He was surrounded by people who loved and cared about him, not caring about his past or who he was.

“I think this night was a success,” Yelina smiled down at her brother-in-law.

“Yes,” Horatio smiled back up at her. “It was. He’s happy.”

Yelina looked at the grinning Speed, “Looks good on him.”

“How are you?” Horatio asked, patting the seat next to him.

“Good,” Yelina grinned, sitting down. “Rick and I are taking Ray Jr. over to Orlando next weekend.”

“He should have a blast,” Horatio looked over at her. “How are they getting along?”

“Pretty good,” Yelina nodded a smile on her face. “We have our moments.”

“Rick’s a good man,” Horatio took a sip of his drink, “Pain in the ass, but a good man.”

Yelina laughed, she glanced over at Speed then back at Horatio, “So does he still do that thing with his tongue?”

Horatio spat out his scotch, and stared at a laughing Yelina. “WHAT?”

“That thing with his tongue, you know the small flick over sensitive skin.” Yelina responded in a straightforward manner.

Horatio’s mouth dropped, “Do I want to know?”

“Horatio,” Yelina laid a hand on his arm. “Think about it.”

Horatio sat back and looked at her, “It was you?”

She smiled, “The moment I saw him…I knew he belonged to you — Just had to figure a way for the two of you to meet.”

“And exactly how did you find out about his talented tongue?” Horatio asked, not sure if he wanted an answer.

“Ray had been gone a year, I was lonely. I wasn’t ready for a relationship and didn’t want to expose Ray Jr. to me clubbing. So someone mentioned someone and he showed up.” She nodded towards Speed. “He’s very talented…”

“Okay stop there, that’s enough information for me,” Horatio glared at her downing the rest of his drink. “So from that you conspired?”

“I just knew he was yours,” Yelina shrugged. “Like I knew I belonged to Ray. When I found out you were at the Regency, I arranged the meeting. Of course the stubborn man you are just wouldn’t go for it.” She shook her head and sighed. “Though I wasn’t surprised. When I saw him at the banquet I made a quick call. When you didn’t come back I knew you couldn’t resist him the second time around. And like a true Caine, once you get a taste of what you want — you will stop at nothing to keep it.” Yelina glanced back over at Speed. “Was I right?”

Horatio smiled at her, “Yes, you were.”

~*~

Speed hummed with excitement. Dawn was coming over the horizon, and he still couldn’t sleep. He looked back at a sleeping Horatio, he grinned as he headed back into the bedroom. He slipped into the bed and under the covers, kissing Horatio’s cheek, following a path down his jaw to his exposed neck. He sucked on it gently enjoying the mutterings from the still sleeping Horatio. He smirked using his tongue and flickered out and teased the ear lobe. Hands quickly grabbed him and pinned him to the bed. He laughed looking up into Horatio’s blue eyes.

“Good morning,” Speed smiled at him. He spread his legs letting Horatio settle between them.

“We got in about three hours ago,” Horatio moaned into Speed’s neck. “Shouldn’t you be sleeping like normal restaurant owners?”

“I’m too wired,” Speed moved to give Horatio’s mouth better access to his neck. “Know a way to calm me down?”

Horatio kissed him hard on the mouth. He looked down at a panting Speed, “Calm? No…but if you want I can wear you out?”

Speed thrust his hips upwards causing their hard cocks to align together, “Sounds like a plan.”

Horatio let go of Speed’s wrists, one hand caressed down Speed’s side to his hip. Horatio pulled Speed’s hip farther up, hooking it over his own hip. “By the way, I found out who set us up.” He breathed into Speed’s ear as he settled into an easy rhythm rocking against Speed – causing a delicious friction.

Speed groaned from Horatio’s slow deliberate thrusts, “Really who?” He threw his head back as he moaned.

“A client of yours,” Horatio rocked harder against him causing Speed to thrust back, matching Horatio’s rhythm.

Speed looked up at him, a bit breathless, “Not a long time client. I would remember the connection.”

“Just a one time thing, but she knew we belonged together.” Horatio took Speed’s mouth into a deep kiss, speeding up his movements. Speed’s hand grasped Horatio’s arms as the sensations were becoming too much to handle. Horatio buried his head into Speed’s shoulder moaning deep in his throat. Speed arched up grinding into Horatio. Both men soon yelled out their completion.

Horatio collapsed against Speed’s side panting softly, “I love you.”

Speed curled into Horatio’s side, “And I you.” Speed kissed his neck. “So who was it?”

“Yelina,” Horatio laughed at Speed’s expression.

“Your sister-in-law?” Speed rolled onto his back, a look of contemplation on his face. “Oh…” He blushed as he turned and hid his face into Horatio’s neck. Horatio could feel him snickering. “Talk about a tight net family.”

Horatio laughed, “Well we get along very well.”

“That’s good,” Speed began kissing his neck.

“Didn’t I just wear you out?” Horatio asked, hands caressing Speed’s stomach.

“Still wired,” Speed nuzzled him, and then yawned.

“I can see that,” Horatio rolled onto his side, pulling Speed fully into his arms. “Get some sleep, you’ve got a restaurant to run.”

Speed smiled happily, “Thank you.”

“For what?” Horatio kissed his temple.

“For believing in me,” Speed whispered, slowly falling asleep.

“One question,” Horatio looked down at Speed. His dark lashes flushed against pale skin.
“Is there anyone else I should know about? I mean any friends of mine. Ex-clients?” Horatio asked in half-jest.

Speed chuckled, “But that would take away the surprise.”

“You’re kidding right?” Horatio looked down to see Speed asleep. He smiled softly, kissing Speed on the forehead. He closed his own eyes allowing sleep to claim him. Their paths were fully entwined now and it was a one-way street.